tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59110027650246608332024-03-05T09:53:38.766-08:00Laura's Louisville LifeLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.comBlogger219125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-92159806601872184932013-02-26T18:04:00.000-08:002013-02-26T18:14:30.336-08:00I'm currently...<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-9157443217195191578" itemprop="description articleBody" style="position: relative; width: 786px;">
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<i>*going crazy with this formatting... oh well!</i></div>
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<strong style="font-family: inherit;">Listening to</strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">the quiet sounds of a little one sleeping while my husband is in class</span></div>
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<strong style="font-family: inherit;">Planning: </strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">what we'll eat next week, birthday gifts to buy, and bills to pay</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wishing:</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">for a glimpse into our last after Matt's graduation in May,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">for now I can trust the Lord, cling to Him, and enjoy living life today</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong style="line-height: 18px;">Thinking about:</strong><span style="line-height: 18px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">the next season, while wanting to cherish now,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">I'm not so good at the leaving </span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">transition</span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"> I've realized, </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">I usually rush ahead to the "next stage" and forget to really <br />think about all that's ending or changing, </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">weeks or months into the "next stage" I get sad about all that's different, <br />and wish I'd savored it more,</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">hopefully now I am</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Craving:</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">a little something sweet, there may be a Girl Scout cookie is in my future</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Looking forward to:</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">the spring/summer children's consignment sale next week</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Working on</strong>: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">my walk with the Lord, trying a new Bible reading plan (Dr. Horner's - 2 days in), </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">and desiring greater consistency in prayer, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">asking the Lord to cause my heart to be satisfied only in Him longing for nothing else</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong style="line-height: 18px;">Reading</strong><span style="line-height: 18px;">: </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">the Bible in bigger chunks than I ever have before,</span><span style="line-height: 18px;">hoping the change will be profitable for seeing the Lord afresh,</span><span style="line-height: 18px;">Elisabeth Elliot's "Keep A Quiet Heart" </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">one short article at a time as practical life/devotion building,</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">a library book, fun to read but not too gripping or </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">particularly</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> intentional, </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">I'll probably read it half way then move on (at least I'm honest!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>Feeling:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">thankful for life now and all the Lord has done</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Making me happy:</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Matt and Moriah's play times squeezed in before he's off to work in the morning, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">or as soon as he steps in the door at night,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">read aloud times with Moriah (Dr. Seuss this week),</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">talking with my sweet girl all day long </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(lately most conversations start like this, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Mama, talk about something..." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"What Moriah?" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Talk about frogs..." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(or puppies, or firemen, or snow, etc. as vast as a 2 1/2 year old mind can go!</span><span style="font-family: Arvo;">)</span></div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-5490793758435961282013-02-25T12:02:00.000-08:002013-02-25T12:02:04.880-08:00Oh give thanks to the Lord...<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><br /> <span class="pibfi_pinterest"><br /> <img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /><br /> <span class="xc_pin" onclick="pin_this(event, 'http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http://www.aholyexperience.com/2003/06/buttons-to-use-and-share/&media=http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg&description=Buttons')"><br /> </span><br /> </span></a></div>
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<i>"Oh give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name, <br />make known His deeds among the peoples.<br />Sing to Him, sing praises to Him, <br />tell of all His wondrous works.</i></div>
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<i>Glory in His holy name, <br />let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! </i></div>
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<i>Seek the Lord and His strength, <br />seek His presence continually.</i></div>
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<i>Remember the wondrous works that He has done, <br />his miracles and the judgments He uttered." <br />~Psalm 105:1-5</i></div>
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1326. accountability for Scripture memory, Truth on my mind changes my thinking so much<br />
1327. learning more about prayer from two godly women who've been faithful<br />
1328. a weekend at home, to rest and recover from a cold<br />
1329. playtime for Matt and Moriah (even though she was so excited Saturday that she didn't nap!)<br />
1330. Moriah's new favorite game, "play fire girl", as we climb on the couch "firetruck" use the spray bottle "fire hose" and put out fires here and there all over the house!<br />
1331. time to clean a bit around the house<br />
1332. snuggled up to watch a little Friday night movie with Moriah while Matt's away<br />
1333. Saturday morning's donuts, and a new discovery - homemade donuts just down the street!<br />
1334. knowing that God knows and has good planned, even if I don't always know His ways<br />
1335. a sweet church of people we love<br />
1336. Google maps, street view, little glimpses of a place we'll see soon<br />
1337. time for Matt and I to rest together without studying!<br />
1338. seeing God change my desires<br />
1339. Dr. Horner's Bible Reading Plan, a new method of encouragement to read the Word<br />
1340. free laundry while I work, so helpful!<br />
1341. the idea of "future grace", in Christ we can long for and look forward to God's continuing grace to us, it's not just something we've seen in the past, that may not last, it will be for all of eternity!<br />
1342. catching up with a friend, even with a hoarse voice<br />
1343. cooking on the weekend, enjoying the meals throughout the week<br />
1344. community group pot-lucks<br />
1345. the need for confession, often, God's grace and forgiveness lived out through those around me<br />
1346. a read aloud for Moriah that's just right for her, lately the veterinary stories for children from James Harriot<br />
1347. consignment sale season, items priced and ready for drop off<br />
1348. a silhouette of Moriah, her curls and sweet profile, remembering her 2 1/2 year old face for days to come<br />
1349. sunny, blue skies in Louisville, mild weather<br />
1350. wise doctors who counsel with care<br />
1351. Matt's faithful preaching, even in hard passages, knowing he's sought the Lord and desires to proclaim the Bible for God's glory<br />
1352. friends who will baby-sit<br />
1353. Moriah's memory, wild all she's stored away!<br />
1354. a mom who checks in when I've been sick<br />
1355. practical ways to love my family, the gift of time to do so<br />
1356. a weekend with naps for me<br />
1357. starting the week with clean laundry for all<br />
1358. birthday parties for little friends, celebrating life<br />
1359. God's provision in our taxes, refunds and taxes owed balance in my self-employed situation<br />
1360. creative little minds to watch and enjoy as they play together<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-84121675931846795762013-02-22T04:22:00.000-08:002013-02-22T04:22:09.267-08:00Thinking of Easter<h2>
Easter for Toddlers</h2>
As Lent continues, we long for Easter and the victory Jesus won over death. I hope to teach Moriah more about Easter this year, as she was especially interested in Christmas and the birth of baby Jesus. We enjoyed focusing on the arrival of our Savior at Christmas, and she was thrilled to consider that He came as a baby. As a 2 1/2 year old she asks lots of questions, and can retain what we're teaching much more than she could last Easter. While Christmas offers many opportunities to teach, I'm thankful that we can choose to teach throughout Holy Week leading up to Easter as well. After all, without the Resurrection at Easter, our Christmas celebrations of the baby Jesus would be in vain!<br />
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These are some ideas we hope to try this year as we celebrate with our busy toddler. </div>
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Of course we'll be flexible, and I won't promise or expect everything to happen :) </div>
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I'd love to build a collection of more Easter books based upon the <br />Biblical Easter story. <a href="http://happybrownhouse.com/2011/04/10/meaningful-easter-books-that-teach/">This list</a> is full of titles that sound great!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from HeartFelt Truths</td></tr>
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First, I plan to purchase <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92386073/no-sew-diy-easter-banner-for-young">this banner</a> which we'll use throughout the Holy Week. <br />I especially love the helpful illustration of the dark felt being laid over the scene on <br />Good Friday, and the "He is Risen" yellow felt being displayed on Easter morning. <br />I made my own Advent scene using their free patterns, <br />but purchasing this one seems like a good idea since it's slightly more involved.</div>
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On Palm Sunday, I hope to make <a href="http://impressyourkids.org/palm-palms-a-giveaway-the-beginning-of-our-resurrection-week/">these hand print palm leaves</a>, <br />to use as we learn some Easter songs.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVFC6J5K0MtKQbFSyvmevZplsFtIvSNZE666caGDoxUZbEoYygTCKXu-YFRFUlIykm0ubF_Qna3x_bluR8WrWftldEkQ0qnijHycdozJKECBsKt22tupmdy8IQjA2pJGj2nLP1PTr6j3I/s400/religious+Easter+craft+for+kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVFC6J5K0MtKQbFSyvmevZplsFtIvSNZE666caGDoxUZbEoYygTCKXu-YFRFUlIykm0ubF_Qna3x_bluR8WrWftldEkQ0qnijHycdozJKECBsKt22tupmdy8IQjA2pJGj2nLP1PTr6j3I/s320/religious+Easter+craft+for+kids.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Catholic Icing</td></tr>
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If I can print <a href="http://catholicicing.com/2011/04/religious-easter-craft-for-kids-make/">these pictures</a> in color I think the toilet paper roll "puppets" <br />would be helpful to use as props throughout the week as we discuss the Easter story.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Gretchen Reads</td></tr>
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On Wednesday, we'll make <a href="http://gret-reads-247.blogspot.com/2011/04/more-holy-week-activities.html">this play dough Easter Mountain</a> as Noel Piper suggests <br />in "Treasuring God in Our Traditions". I was a bit intimidated by the thought of the <br />pipe cleaner figurines she described making, so I think we'll photo copy a Jesus <br />picture from one of Moriah's children's Bibles. Gretchen did that in the picture <br />above, and it seemed like a great idea so that Moriah can recognize a familiar picture.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Thalita Dol</td></tr>
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On Good Friday <a href="http://thalitadol.blogspot.com.br/2012/04/artes-de-pascoa-easter-crafts.html">this cross craft</a> with wooden popsicle sticks and a heart in the middle <br />helps describe that out of His love for us Christ died on the cross in our place. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Totally Tots</td></tr>
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On Easter Sunday <a href="http://happyhomefairy.com/2011/04/08/2-easy-easter-paper-crafts/">this simple craft</a> clearly shows that Jesus isn't in the tomb <br />any more! He's risen, praise the Lord!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Eat at Allie's</td></tr>
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We'll also make <a href="http://eatatallies.com/2011/04/resurrection-rolls/">Resurrection rolls</a> again this year, <br />but I'll be certain to seal the crescent rolls better than I did last year. <br />The object lesson is off a bit when there's no hollow middle :)</div>
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If you're curious about other Easter ideas, <br />check out my <a href="http://pinterest.com/laurapeery/spring-is-here/">"Spring Is Here" Pinterest board,</a> <br />where I've been busy storing ideas for this year and the future!</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-42965399048746850842013-02-21T04:55:00.000-08:002013-02-21T04:55:00.133-08:00Play Simply at Home<h2>
Play Simply!</h2>
As a mom to a 2 1/2 year old little girl, and a nanny to a 4 1/2 year old boy and an almost 2 year old girl, I spend lots of time playing and/or supervising play. I'm not a "home body" by nature, though I'm growing in my contentment at home, as long as I know what our day might look like. I tend to prefer going out (even to run errands, or take the kids to play) because my little friends seem to enjoy breaking up the day that way. We all tend to get restless and stir crazy when we're at home ALL day! <br />
<br />
On to thriftiness though... going out to a variety of children's activities isn't totally thrifty. While some outings are free (library story time, nature center, park, etc.) the cost of gasoline is a deterrent. Instead of insisting that we find daily activities away, and to save money here are some of our at home activities. You may have similar toys laying around that have been overlooked lately, or you might find inspiration to make a "toy" out of something you certainly have or could easily obtain.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuN2ISI6iDw7Vb6_L3KiRo7qLk86C7kw7j_P6_Xe2NtR2O5zlWzrVxT1UJCRtd7ArT4eezuVKl-AoDItMeXG3Ng3j0CwTKArP2Dw3fT8l7eyGYmHb4ZhlGQ_FkQuIUWRwYlNrrGNd-B6Uz/s1600/DSCF7384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>I compiled this list for my mom when we recently went out of town, leaving our daughter in our home with grandma. Grandma's rarely need ideas, but I hoped it would help if she did :)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>paint her toenails<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>make a smoothie</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>play “I Spy”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>change Baby Jane’s clothes<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>listen to music </div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Play-Doh (store bought or home made - find inspiration on Pinterest)</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00FUdkKzn7kNK5swkYpW4mTbyDSEqwDxnGlR4bxAlYmF8cCwIZEqBjCm_efSs308_rynI-M5_hxWRtnAt7Uit8MCA_rR_OdJ8h0K-Y4ROhbH0cKo5f72JGJ6R5cnjLJXNHGBl9444Bjlp/s1600/DSCF7709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00FUdkKzn7kNK5swkYpW4mTbyDSEqwDxnGlR4bxAlYmF8cCwIZEqBjCm_efSs308_rynI-M5_hxWRtnAt7Uit8MCA_rR_OdJ8h0K-Y4ROhbH0cKo5f72JGJ6R5cnjLJXNHGBl9444Bjlp/s320/DSCF7709.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in motion, making "apple pie" with homemade <br />
cinnamon play dough</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->rubber stamps<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->markers, crayons, dry erase crayons and board,
window crayons, etc. <o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->construction paper, coloring books </div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>play <a href="http://boardgamegeek.com/boardgameversion/116684/ravensburger-english-edition">Curious George board game</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>spray shaving cream on high chair tray to play in, <br />
trace with fingers to make letter, shapes, etc. <br />
(wear a smock, encourage her not to worry about messy hands!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>play with buttons <br />
(sort by color, shape, size or scoop, and pour them into cups, etc.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>play with magnets and cookie sheet or refrigerator <br />
(matching letter magnets to her written name, <br />
or a sheet of paper with the alphabet written)</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->paint on <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50021076/">easel </a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUzJkBktDNP4MH0OsRWQSYPZHHpmRaS8JFMWfz9u8v4H6lZdomtHek4hyphenhypheneonIF1-JaCIAIa6cMNEQ-EM8O6dDz6qZi5ADHRYqHzAUUJM0wuyPpkjsY3w9I9CwGQZF68Ws9ChIpGaw_YhG/s1600/DSCF7553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUzJkBktDNP4MH0OsRWQSYPZHHpmRaS8JFMWfz9u8v4H6lZdomtHek4hyphenhypheneonIF1-JaCIAIa6cMNEQ-EM8O6dDz6qZi5ADHRYqHzAUUJM0wuyPpkjsY3w9I9CwGQZF68Ws9ChIpGaw_YhG/s320/DSCF7553.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->thread beads </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->build a zoo with little wooden animals and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Garanimals-Building-Blocks-Natural-Months/dp/B004PJDYIC">blocks</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->watch a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gorilla-Sleepytime-Scholastic-Storybook-Treasures/dp/B00113ALMW/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1361323356&sr=8-12&keywords=scholastic+storybook+treasures">Scholastic storybook DVD</a><br />
(I've found these at TJ Maxx for around $5 in the past)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play grocery store <br />
(use paper bag, baskets,
shopping cart, purse, coins, list, receipts)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2983674">doctor </a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play “Ring Around the Rosie” on our bed<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->set up the tent and tunnel<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-uycglnYwaxXmdIWW9ZBjwQemsMl-M3hrngyC3C7N67F3bnxYO7tacYWVeO1dm2CWb_1i4w8ZKgsZCioDWrjjDbIJ1s2_WwIu9-KMWSYCKmGelcxE9t7wgxsbl2z7X3-PMbc-VQLypNA/s1600/100_0841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-uycglnYwaxXmdIWW9ZBjwQemsMl-M3hrngyC3C7N67F3bnxYO7tacYWVeO1dm2CWb_1i4w8ZKgsZCioDWrjjDbIJ1s2_WwIu9-KMWSYCKmGelcxE9t7wgxsbl2z7X3-PMbc-VQLypNA/s320/100_0841.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->have a tea party with all stuffed animals and
dolls<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play ambulance with couch (or call it the “purple car” or
“ship”)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->toss rolled up toddler socks or bean bags into laundry basket<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>climb the “mountain” (a hill near our apartment)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>play with any toys in her closet <br />
(I rotate toys, so some are stashed away and can be "new" again, when I <br />
switch them - this also helps with the limited space available for toys!)<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>use your <a href="http://www.happytogethercreates.com/2009/07/rag-quilt-letters-tutorial.html">fabric letters</a> and match toys to each letter<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>write cards and letters to mail in little red mailbox</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->cook together<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->work on puzzles<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play with felt farm <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play with dry feed corn or dry beans and John Deere tractors,
<br />
Gator, and farm animals<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->read! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->take baby Jane for a walk outside with the
plastic stroller<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->blow bubbles outside </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play instruments <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->make an obstacle course, or balance beam with
masking tape on the carpet<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->play with pasta in box <br />
(add scoops, spoons,
bowls, cups, etc. from kitchen or play kitchen)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Hope these are helpful and thrifty thoughts for any stir crazy <br />cold days you may have with your little ones!</b></div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-11553989409541999132013-02-19T11:55:00.001-08:002013-02-19T11:55:24.660-08:00Food Lately...<h2>
Simple Dinners</h2>
I've been behind in blogging lately, and may get back to it gradually! For the last two weeks or so, we've had some pretty flexible meal plans. We were out of town for a short trip, and kept things simple before we left (while we were gone for my mom and Moriah who stayed together), and when we returned. I've also been trying to use up miscellaneous things that have been in the pantry for long enough! <br />
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So, here are a few of my simple dinners...</div>
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<b><a href="http://thegiblers.blogspot.com/2012/10/life-as-we-know-it.html">Chicken Nachos</a> from Amy at He Graces</b></div>
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These are becoming a new "go-to" dinner... easy and delicious :) I love Crock-Pot cooking.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIEmvyKNkFSO-9iFpMqjWVs8lB2CNSZ5T2sw8pk3HJprWtM9Xem5OpahhOhmaDgsocwmlubAVx5CGAR4FlFH4-H6bp3HeHyB0Cv9vk5nZcYxpKrBw9sKLf1p2dh5hunU-P4g3pojJmjg/s320/DSC05869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIEmvyKNkFSO-9iFpMqjWVs8lB2CNSZ5T2sw8pk3HJprWtM9Xem5OpahhOhmaDgsocwmlubAVx5CGAR4FlFH4-H6bp3HeHyB0Cv9vk5nZcYxpKrBw9sKLf1p2dh5hunU-P4g3pojJmjg/s320/DSC05869.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from He Graces</td></tr>
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<b>breakfast-for-dinner</b></div>
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This can take lots of forms, and that's a good thing! <a href="http://www.hottmamainthecity.com/2013/02/banana-pancakes-recipe.html">Banana Pancakes</a> from Pinterest have been a recent hit. English muffins with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon are quick and easy. We also loved enjoying our English muffins with eggs and avocado slices. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftt6nH2m45lhJGDZxaafGa_719zVUdz5p4pgeWzCLuovTybZ68UjDj90BHdgeMvw_FKFOLquT3fLSn-tJI_CfLAGmQkwvqBWqNz86-cXf-KVEDy2YaP16MZbOpNIdIRdD81LTnaQslEg/s1600/banana+pancakes+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftt6nH2m45lhJGDZxaafGa_719zVUdz5p4pgeWzCLuovTybZ68UjDj90BHdgeMvw_FKFOLquT3fLSn-tJI_CfLAGmQkwvqBWqNz86-cXf-KVEDy2YaP16MZbOpNIdIRdD81LTnaQslEg/s320/banana+pancakes+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Hott Mama in the City</td></tr>
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<b>soups</b></div>
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Sometimes it's frozen leftovers of <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/10/05/recipe-homemade-chicken-noodle-soup/">Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup</a> from 100 Day of Real Food, using our <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/01/24/recipe-overnight-chicken-stock-in-the-crock-pot/">homemade stock</a> and <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/02/25/recipe-the-best-whole-chicken-in-a-crock-pot/">Crock Pot Whole chicken</a>. Other times, not homemade at all! Campbell's comes in handy, and I've loved making a can of tomato soup by adding whole milk and dried basil lately. It's extra creamy that way, and tastes great with Parmesan cheese on top. Having a grilled cheese sandwich on the side rounds it out! We've also enjoyed our <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/slow-cooker-chicken-tortilla-soup/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=slow%20cooker%20chicken%20tortilla%20soup&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e13=A%3aSearch%20Results-List%28control%29&e7=Home%20Page">Crock-Pot chicken tortilla soup</a> from allrecipes.com with sour cream, avocado, chips and Jiffy cornbread muffins. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Chicken-Noodle-Soup-500x332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Chicken-Noodle-Soup-500x332.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from 100 Days of Real Food</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/09/chili-for-fall-and-winter.html">chili</a> & Jiffy cornbread muffins</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiaoGnsQ0D-45RLLiyqZxjvTXcLH4mw6_fv-dveWmFsx9UWBXC1mHs7HQay7GxjKkZp_BPGcFIsFiPeV5cd5wI6aeJYVwWZVkOe3tmZe6pNuiHIxAc0yJXbGRFJY2bdi3V49Ya8cKdYSi0/s400/DSCF7674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiaoGnsQ0D-45RLLiyqZxjvTXcLH4mw6_fv-dveWmFsx9UWBXC1mHs7HQay7GxjKkZp_BPGcFIsFiPeV5cd5wI6aeJYVwWZVkOe3tmZe6pNuiHIxAc0yJXbGRFJY2bdi3V49Ya8cKdYSi0/s320/DSCF7674.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>spaghetti</b></div>
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Using our <a href="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2012/10/hearty-spaghetti-sauce.html">homemade spaghetti sauce</a> from Passionate Homemaking, I can add any pasta needed to the sauce I've frozen to keep on hand. It's quick and full of veggies!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_0770-588x391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_0770-588x391.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Passionate Homemaking</td></tr>
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<b>lasagna</b></div>
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While this isn't quick in my mind, it's do-able for me over the weekend, and gives us LOTS of leftovers to have for dinners or lunches throughout the week. I'm happy to invest a little more time for the ease of reheating later on busy nights!</div>
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<b>pizza</b></div>
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One night this week we'll make homemade pizza (with mushrooms, olives, onions, peppers, and pepperoni), but we've also been thankful for some Papa John's promos lately that have earned us free pizza! I predicted the Super Bowl coin toss correctly, and Matt received a $10 gift card from a bank customer. Pizza nights are always nice.</div>
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-62289676788012547742013-02-05T11:45:00.004-08:002013-02-05T11:48:43.649-08:00checking in on goals 2013...I set goals this year, and want to check in each month as a source of accountability for myself. <br />
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Here's a wrap-up of January's progress... <br />
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PERSONAL GOALS:<br />
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- Exercise (pilates on YouTube, toning, strength) 4 mornings weekly building up to 30 minutes or so</b><br />
<i>*didn't happen very regularly at all, with sickness, and too many late nights/late mornings I got out of a good routine, next week I plan to start again (post-vacation!)</i><br />
<b>- Spend time on-line only when Moriah is sleeping and fast from computer usage once a month for a week</b><br />
<i>*while I wouldn't say I met this goal perfectly, setting it was so helpful, as I thought more about whether or not I really needed "to look that up" right then... oftentimes not, it's also really helped me enjoy more time with Moriah while generally wasting less time</i><br />
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- READ from my book lists (new-to-me reading and re-reading), hoping to complete them both</b><br />
<i>*I've enjoyed <a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/p/recently-reading.html">6 books this month</a>! I'm also getting ready to head out for a restful vacation at the beach where I look forward to more time with good books :)</i><br />
<b>- Complete three mornings (30 minutes each) of lessons weekly with Moriah from our ABC Jesus Loves me curriculum </b><br />
<i>*This has been my least met goal... I'm still re-thinking our "school time" and would love your input, Moriah's 2 1/2 and doing most of the things suggested by the inexpesive and well organized ABC Jesus Loves Me curriculum, because it's not particularly challenging I've been pretty lax with it... I really like some components and hope to integrate them more, we also spend lots of time playing in constructive ways and read tons of books so while "school time" isn't very rigid at all it happens all day which is more important at this age to me</i><br />
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SPIRITUAL GOALS:<br />
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- Continue daily Bible readings with She Reads Truth plans on YouVersion</b><br />
<i>*I've been SO thankful for these Bible reading plans and have been able to keep up with them</i><br />
<b>- Grow in prayer time using a prayer notebook and prayer calendars for mothers and wives <br />
(I'm also taking a Seminary Wives class called "Lessons in Prayer" which will offer additional application I'm sure!)</b><br />
<i>*As expected, my Seminary Wives class is perfectly timed and so helpful, even one week in :) </i><br />
<b>- Disciple a new believer in our congregation, meeting once a week
(details TBD though I'm planning to read through "Big Truths for Young
Hearts" with her as a general overview of systematic theology which will
cover all areas of life - while it can be used with children the
foreword also suggests it's useful for teaching young Christians of all
ages as well)</b><br />
<i>*After talking with this friend in our church, she's explained this to be a too-full season, and can't add an additional time commitment, I don't want to be discouraged and hope her schedule will be freed to pursue this in a month or so<br />
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FINANCIAL GOALS:<br />
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- Pay off remaining medical debt</b><br />
<i>*After this month's payment, we're only about 1 more payment away from our original debt, unfortunately early January required more doctor visits and tests due to illness for me, but we've yet to see those bills... we'll set up another payment plan for them, and hope to be diligent in repaying them, before Seminary graduation if possible</i><br />
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<strike>- Pay remaining Seminary expenses by semester's due date</strike></b><br />
<i>*Praise the Lord! We did :) What seemed insurmountable 4 years ago has been done by God's grace and faithful providence, Seminary is paid!</i><br />
<b>- Save! (in general and <strike>specifically for our Florida vacation in February</strike> and children's consignment shopping)</b><br />
<i>*Our upcoming Florida trip is fully paid, and money was set aside for travel expenses, we're so thankful for time to rest and celebrate our anniversary and Matt's upcoming graduation as a couple</i><br />
<b>- Maintain a financial journal of God's faithful provision throughout the year, updating as He graces us</b><br />
<i>*A simple and encouraging blessing to me, I'm thankful for such a record to remind myself of God's faithfulness in the future, we're so quick to forget, and are exhorted to "remember" throughout Scripture</i>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-80259243309939739052013-01-31T05:00:00.000-08:002013-01-31T05:00:13.432-08:00Request Free Samples!<h2>
Thrifty Thursday - Free Samples</h2>
I've found that requesting free samples of various products (that will be useful to our family) is a great way to try new things and enjoy different things with no risk or money wasted. It's also fun to check the mail and see what will arrive :) <br />
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Almost a year ago, I subscribed to <a href="http://www.allyou.com/coupons-deals/daily-free-samples-00411000069695/">All You's Daily Free Sample</a> e-mail (enter your e-mail address to subscribe). While I don't check many advertisement e-mails, I almost always check this one. Some days the samples are simple and require only that I submit my mailing information. Other days samples can be received at various stores, so I don't participate. Occasionally the samples aren't relevant for our family, then I skip it. Oftentimes however I'm thrilled by the chance to "splurge" and enjoy a free sample! <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/category/freebies-giveaways"> Money Saving Mom's blog</a> also lists a variety of free samples (look for the "Freebies and Giveaways" page along the top menu) along with other excellent information. If you're not reading it, subscribe soon!</div>
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Lately I've received a small bag of ground Seattle's Best coffee. I've also received Tide Pods for the laundry as well as the fabric softener beads. I've enjoyed free tea bags from lovely Bigelow tea and others. My husband just used four free Airborne samples I'd requested (he promises they ward off the germs he encounters as a bank teller). I receive various toiletries frequently, and have found them perfect for creating a bag of items for out of town guests who may stay with us. These necessities are used often when visitors come and can be easily replenished with more samples!</div>
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Last week my husband brought the mail home including a sample of Method laundry detergent. As I opened the box I realized it was a laundry night (we use the campus laundromat-style facilities and he's great to haul them back and forth in the freezing cold for me!). Next, I realized we were out of detergent and couldn't have washed our mountain of laundry without that sample. What sweet timing of the Lord. When samples are requested I never know if I'll really receive them or how long they may take (most forms say 6-8 weeks). I certainly didn't plan to receive this sample at this time, but God knew and cares about even our smallest needs.<br />
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Try requesting free samples for yourself. You never know when the Lord's timing will be perfect! </div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-73814507704925578772013-01-28T11:30:00.002-08:002013-01-28T11:30:27.527-08:00a full heart of thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">"to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is </span><sup class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-17417Z" title="See cross-reference Z">Z</a>)"></sup><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">the gift of God"</span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;"><b>~Ecclesiastes 5:17</b></span></div>
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1296. for an abundance to share<br />
1297. lessons from Ecclesiastes (listen to <a href="http://sojournchurch.com/category/text/ecclesiastes/">sermons from Sojourn</a> here)<br />
1298. singing songs of truth<br />
1299. the Holy Spirit's work to encourage, affirm, and comfort<br />
1300. opportunities for full time ministry post-graduation, pray with us!<br />
1301. seeing the Lord's work to change us and make us ready<br />
1302. a brave girl at her first dentist appointment<br />
1303. kind dental hygienists who patiently played and cleaned little teeth<br />
1304. dinner with friends<br />
1305. fun multiplied when extra little ones join in<br />
1306. a reliable mechanic who's honest<br />
1307. a cooking afternoon<br />
1308. Matt who loves eating my muffins (a dozen gone this weekend!)<br />
1309. an attempt at baking bread in my new Dutch oven<br />
1310. a picnic in Moriah's tent<br />
1311. a husband who kindly washes dishes after guests visit (while I give our little one her bath)<br />
1312. financial provision, always<br />
1313. the Lord bringing us and sustaining us each semester, this is the last one for Seminary<br />
1314. wise words in good books (see my<a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/p/recently-reading.html"> recent reading</a> here)<br />
1315. snuggles with a little girl<br />
1316. reading and finding comfy spots for three little ones on one lap<br />
1317. safe driving and God's protection on a day with slippery roads<br />
1318. mild weather today<br />
1319. an upcoming trip to celebrate our marriage and upcoming graduation while we rest and relax<br />
1320. a grandma coming to stay<br />
1321. Little Golden Books, timeless stories, "Baby Dear" is our current favorite<br />
1322. prayers on our behalf<br />
1323. bird watching, especially when we can enjoy a pileated woodpecker and a kingfisher!<br />
1324. pursuing more time in nature, knowing that as I see God's work I'll marvel at Him<br />
1325. a husband who leads with love and gentlenessLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-26160059646002718482013-01-25T17:12:00.001-08:002013-01-25T17:12:19.259-08:00Back to Seminary January Meal Plans<h2>
Back to Seminary January Meal Plans</h2>
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Our last Seminary semester begins this week. I really can't believe it. On this side of things it seems like time flew by. I know there were days and weeks when I wouldn't have felt that way, however. </div>
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The long winter break is always delightful as we enjoy more family time in the evenings. For the next few months we'll relish the time we're together in the evenings and re-adjust to our school time pace. </div>
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We have community group on Monday nights, Matt's in class this semester on Tuesday evenings, and I take class on Thursday evening. Thus we make large meals when we can and enjoy leftovers too!</div>
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Saturday:</div>
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spaghetti with <a href="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2012/10/hearty-spaghetti-sauce.html">homemade marinara sauce</a>, salad, and garlic bread</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_0770-588x391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_0770-588x391.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Passionate Homemaking</td></tr>
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Sunday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pan-roasted-chicken-lemon-garlic-green-beans-10000000780291/index.html">roasted chicken with lemon green beans and potatoes</a>, bread, <a href="http://espressoandcream.com/2010/11/autumn-chopped-salad.html">salad</a>, and fruit<br />*We're having friends over for supper so this is an extra large meal, <br />and one of our "go to" recipes for company!</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4-2.realsimple.timeinc.net/images/food-recipes/recipe-collections/0409/chicken-beans_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img4-2.realsimple.timeinc.net/images/food-recipes/recipe-collections/0409/chicken-beans_300.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Real Simple</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://espressoandcream.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/autumnchoppedsalad.jpg?w=240" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://espressoandcream.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/autumnchoppedsalad.jpg?w=240" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Espresso and Cream</td></tr>
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Monday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/10/05/recipe-homemade-chicken-noodle-soup/">homemade chicken noodle soup</a>, baked sweet potatoes<br />*Last week, I made the 100 Days of Real Food <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/02/25/recipe-the-best-whole-chicken-in-a-crock-pot/">Crock-Pot whole chicken</a> <br />and <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/01/24/recipe-overnight-chicken-stock-in-the-crock-pot/">overnight chicken stock in the Crock-Pot</a>, then use them in this recipe</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Chicken-Noodle-Soup-500x332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Chicken-Noodle-Soup-500x332.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from 100 Days of Real Food</td></tr>
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Tuesday:</div>
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leftovers</div>
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Wednesday:</div>
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<a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/chicken-pesto-pizza/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=pesto%20chicken%20pizza&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e13=A%3aSearch%20Results-List%28control%29&e7=Home%20Page">pesto chicken pizza</a>, and fruit</div>
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Thursday:</div>
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leftovers</div>
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Friday:</div>
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pancakes, bacon, and eggs</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-4751465606955104812013-01-24T04:56:00.000-08:002013-01-24T04:56:38.135-08:00How do we pay bills?<br />
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Maybe this Thrifty Thursday post won't be helpful to you, but I hope it might be!</div>
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I'm not Dave Ramsey, and I haven't read much of his writing (though I hope to!). <br />
I do know that we live on a fairly tight budget and have learned to make <br />
ends meet with God's grace and through His perfect provision.</div>
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One way we've done this is to prioritize our bill paying above all other expenses. <br />
This my be only logical, but I don't think everyone approaches their finances like this. <br />
As the primary "book keeper" in our home, this is what I've done!</div>
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When we get paid I write it in our checkbook register. <br />
Starting in the middle of the month, I look at the spreadsheet of our <br />
bills that I use to keep us organized. <br />
While our bank account is "full" I deduct bills that will be owed <br />
(oftentimes weeks in advance) and record them in our register. <br />
In my mind, the money's gone at that point, <br />
even if it won't be withdrawn for a week or so. <br />
I obviously leave money in our account when we know other expenses are coming, <br />
for our cars, doctor's appointments, etc. <br />
but to the best of my ability I spend our money on bills first. </div>
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My husband thinks I'm crazy :) <br />
He'll often ask about the amount in our account <br />
and I'll explain that it's not "really there"! <br />
He understands my system and is happy that it works for us, <br />
though more mathematical and frugal people <br />
may not need to trick themselves like I do, haha.</div>
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This simple way of paying our bills has been a <br />tremendous help to us month after month. <br />
It offers us peace of mind, knowing that the bills we owe WILL be paid. <br />
While we may need to lessen our grocery budget, or reconsider gift shopping, <br />
or extra entertainment at one point or another, <br />
we don't have to wonder where money will come from for <br />
the more essential matters like rent or electricity. </div>
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This way of thinking also helps me avoid over-spending when <br />
it might otherwise seem like we have "extra". <br />
Since our money is quickly designated, I'm not tempted to splurge in ways that I might <br />
be otherwise if I was thinking about the present only and not our upcoming bills.</div>
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Maybe this will help you reorient your thinking as you pay bills!</div>
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<a href="http://www.thevanillatulip.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g400/tankandtink2/thrifty-thoughts-2.png" /></a></div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-15413478704375416172013-01-18T12:02:00.004-08:002013-01-18T12:02:43.271-08:00Meal Plans January 18 - January 25<h2>
Mid-Winter Meal Plans</h2>
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I haven't really followed my pre-planned "Fall/Winter Meal Plans" for awhile now. I may get back to that soon, once they don't seem as familiar to me. In the meantime we're trying some new things, and enjoy our Crock Pot! I didn't realize I was using it so often this week, I'll run back to the store for more of my favorite Crock Pot liners.<br />
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The plans are...</div>
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Friday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/2012/05/waiter-there-are-balls-in-my-soup.html"></a><a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/2012/05/waiter-there-are-balls-in-my-soup.html">tomato soup</a>, grilled cheese</div>
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(we're skipping the mozzarella balls this time, though I've tasted them with this soup as leftovers at work... they're great, but require plenty of freezing time before baking, <br />if you try it I was told not to tweak that step, even if the mozzarella balls seem plenty frozen. <br />I may cut the grilled cheese into squares and eat them in the soup as "croutons" -<br />I just heard that idea this week!)</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxUpkkk22JKnlAgSMUhB2DifaNLeH9O8Q6W3SRgilQZZ6g70x7df4j2a0Ema-o2TUA0VVE5mL_RjHKgte9wDWpkDVfHDmM33PWnXie27eOxbzH60Fi4e_fYTG_6DMc7DTdGMQvHpKR-Jg/s1600/tomato+pepper+bisque+mozz+balls+500x+watermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxUpkkk22JKnlAgSMUhB2DifaNLeH9O8Q6W3SRgilQZZ6g70x7df4j2a0Ema-o2TUA0VVE5mL_RjHKgte9wDWpkDVfHDmM33PWnXie27eOxbzH60Fi4e_fYTG_6DMc7DTdGMQvHpKR-Jg/s320/tomato+pepper+bisque+mozz+balls+500x+watermark.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Peas and Crayons</td></tr>
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Saturday:</div>
<br />
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for breakfast...</div>
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<a href="http://www.alexandracooks.com/2011/06/29/buttermilk-blueberry-breakfast-cake/">blueberry breakfast cake</a>, <a href="http://www.nourishingdays.com/2009/02/make-yogurt-in-your-crock-pot/">yogurt</a> and <a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/12/homemade-treats-granola.html">granola</a></div>
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(I'm using up buttermilk and blueberries we had a surplus of!)</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandracooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/cakecut2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.alexandracooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/cakecut2.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Alexandra's Kichen</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_rd4-uQ5Lf1tuYoDDRXzeB6MdAV1UTC5rhjM7LrOMqz6Xm1MMgyfjoUDULfPfmB5I7HPtCxgtQ7Y_OCWQO5LMQIMRtoQV2zCJzPVk7xwyuBCaq8g4popUlBvAckRfabJEwAfLITtlEHE/s320/100_0698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_rd4-uQ5Lf1tuYoDDRXzeB6MdAV1UTC5rhjM7LrOMqz6Xm1MMgyfjoUDULfPfmB5I7HPtCxgtQ7Y_OCWQO5LMQIMRtoQV2zCJzPVk7xwyuBCaq8g4popUlBvAckRfabJEwAfLITtlEHE/s320/100_0698.JPG" /></a></div>
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for dinner...</div>
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<a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/02/25/recipe-the-best-whole-chicken-in-a-crock-pot/"></a><a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/02/25/recipe-the-best-whole-chicken-in-a-crock-pot/">Crock Pot whole chicken</a>, <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/09/the-bread/">Pioneer Woman's bread</a>, roasted carrots, <a href="http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2009/01/recipe-for-roasted-green-beans-with.html">balsamic green beans and mushrooms</a></div>
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(I'd highly recommend making the stock from your chicken as the recipe suggests... <br />it's easy and cooks on it's own overnight!)</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/chicken-500x332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/chicken-500x332.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from 100 Days of Real Food</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4944642923_7dfed155e7_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4944642923_7dfed155e7_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Pioneer Woman</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_s--n1TR94Vs/SW6oCXxx7hI/AAAAAAAAJLY/nunFuf6pJ0I/s400/green-beans-400-2-kalynskitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_s--n1TR94Vs/SW6oCXxx7hI/AAAAAAAAJLY/nunFuf6pJ0I/s320/green-beans-400-2-kalynskitchen.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Kalyn's Kitchen</td></tr>
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Sunday:</div>
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panini-style turkey sandwiches, leftover veggies, fruit</div>
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(we use our George Foreman grill and make sandwiches similar to the Green Turkey I loved at <br /><a href="http://www.planetsub.com/menu">Planet Sub</a> with cream cheese, avocado, bacon, onion, tomato, and turkey... can't be beat!)</div>
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Monday:</div>
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<a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/sweet-potato-soup/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=turnip&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page">turnip and potato soup</a>, tuna salad</div>
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(the turnips from church are still lingering, I'm off work Monday and Matt will be home, <br />so I'll have the time to figure out exactly how to prepare them... if you've tried them, share!)</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/userphotos/250x250/00/55/14/551408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/userphotos/250x250/00/55/14/551408.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from All Recipes</td></tr>
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Tuesday:</div>
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waffles, eggs, bacon</div>
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(they didn't happen last week, Matt was out of town, so Moriah and I finished off our <br />Cracker Barrel gift card from friends at church and had breakfast for dinner there!)</div>
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Wednesday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2012/01/slow-cooker-ham-white-beans.html">Crock Pot ham and beans</a>, cornbread muffins</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgqkaVmiqivOnwvog6Swv5NOM1fgzFCgIY41aykUOcS3jf_hGPCN0raeyoWqKdsTO039x1ni0fx9RPPt-MDYaXsFpwQFi7oOzPGyEcgQPqtB5hWcqiWwufyUetFR0rgKy4l-mHnOfmpLW/s640/IMG_1775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgqkaVmiqivOnwvog6Swv5NOM1fgzFCgIY41aykUOcS3jf_hGPCN0raeyoWqKdsTO039x1ni0fx9RPPt-MDYaXsFpwQFi7oOzPGyEcgQPqtB5hWcqiWwufyUetFR0rgKy4l-mHnOfmpLW/s320/IMG_1775.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Plain Chicken</td></tr>
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Thursday:</div>
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leftovers</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Friday:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thegiblers.blogspot.com/2012/10/life-as-we-know-it.html">Crock Pot chicken nachos</a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIEmvyKNkFSO-9iFpMqjWVs8lB2CNSZ5T2sw8pk3HJprWtM9Xem5OpahhOhmaDgsocwmlubAVx5CGAR4FlFH4-H6bp3HeHyB0Cv9vk5nZcYxpKrBw9sKLf1p2dh5hunU-P4g3pojJmjg/s320/DSC05869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIEmvyKNkFSO-9iFpMqjWVs8lB2CNSZ5T2sw8pk3HJprWtM9Xem5OpahhOhmaDgsocwmlubAVx5CGAR4FlFH4-H6bp3HeHyB0Cv9vk5nZcYxpKrBw9sKLf1p2dh5hunU-P4g3pojJmjg/s320/DSC05869.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from He Graces</td></tr>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-48079502370689344692013-01-17T06:00:00.000-08:002013-01-17T06:00:08.472-08:00"Use it up, Wear it out, Make due, Do without"<h2 style="text-align: center;">
children's consignment sales help me...</h2>
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"Use it up, Wear it out, Make due, Do without"</h3>
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Have you ever heard this? I hadn't until recently, and found it to be a helpful summary of the Lord's work in our lives over the past few Seminary years. </div>
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One way we've practiced living out this motto is by selling clothes at consignment sales and by shopping at consignment sale and stores. Until I became a mom, I didn't know about the great things that could be found at children's consignment sales. Here in Louisville, my favorite sale is <a href="http://lky.littletsale.com/">Little Treasures</a>, held twice a year. I'm also able to volunteer as a worker, allowing me to make greater profit on my sales (70-80%) and shop worker pre-sales before things become too picked over.</div>
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We've been blessed to have many of Moriah's clothes given to us by excited family. As we have no storage space in our apartment, I've chosen to consign most of her outgrown clothes in order to "make" money that I use to buy the next season and size of clothes. I price my own clothes and earn a percentage of the final sale. So many baby clothes are gently worn then quickly outgrown. It seems like good stewardship to share them with others by consigning them.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOToWpxz_Tkw_1R6BF794F9R1g4SvKRjpwycJJoGsUenH-Cba1TNG7QYmddxAIhpTO_Fl1hhqZSCuG1LXBCxyPYvK5dUR1_Ft7v3YA6FYKkLHPp2q8gyG1WOI0uzCLI-ZrSzYk-s9gIpkd/s1600/0364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOToWpxz_Tkw_1R6BF794F9R1g4SvKRjpwycJJoGsUenH-Cba1TNG7QYmddxAIhpTO_Fl1hhqZSCuG1LXBCxyPYvK5dUR1_Ft7v3YA6FYKkLHPp2q8gyG1WOI0uzCLI-ZrSzYk-s9gIpkd/s320/0364.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">even this sweet flower girl dress was found at a consignment <br />sale with the bride's approval! it was only $10</td></tr>
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My mom kindly stores a few of my favorites from each season at her home in Missouri. She's also been kind to loan me money up front for my consignment shopping until I can pay her back with my earnings. </div>
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If I need something particular to match a certain outfit, I go to local consignment stores first. Do you have a <a href="http://www.onceuponachild.com/">Once Upon a Child</a> or <a href="http://www.childrensorchard.com/">Children's Orchard</a> in your area? There are likely other independent consignment stores as well, and perhaps even a large seasonal sale. I've also tried the site <a href="http://www.thredup.com/howitworks">Thread-Up</a> which is a sort of mail order consignment though I didn't like having less of an opportunity to select items I knew I'd love (now it's changed and you can choose individual items, when I tried you only received a box based on size/season).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2W6YsdlHAoG4n1oCEYgYZ4VqA_6uJUzABzVlTSLsdS_f1rFgTsO3uhUgrJN_rns5rbVur891SYojwrOp2yli5o0wP1q6ZVu7I9Hkj1wJ_uwn_L-NIWIxlzyeDTLQJAevl3wS8eqKqmjY/s1600/044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2W6YsdlHAoG4n1oCEYgYZ4VqA_6uJUzABzVlTSLsdS_f1rFgTsO3uhUgrJN_rns5rbVur891SYojwrOp2yli5o0wP1q6ZVu7I9Hkj1wJ_uwn_L-NIWIxlzyeDTLQJAevl3wS8eqKqmjY/s320/044.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this winter hat, scarf, coat, and boots were all found at consignment sales,<br />I was delighted that they could even match :)<br /></td></tr>
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We hope to continue to find great consignment stores and sales in the future as they've helped us remain thrifty! Enjoy consignment shopping for your little ones :)</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-19686224603947770312013-01-15T12:27:00.001-08:002013-01-15T12:27:56.931-08:00Birdwatching I took the girls to the <a href="http://www.louisvillenaturecenter.org/">Lousiville Nature Center</a> this morning for a nice (and free!) outing on a cold winter day. We all enjoyed their bird blind. Once you're inside it's mostly sound-proof (so the birds can't hear you) and has a wall of one-way mirrors. I think that's the right term, you can look out at the birds, but they can't see you! They can however sense the jumping little feet of girls startled by a squirrel :) The bird blind also has speakers inside allowing you to hear the outside sounds and songs of the birds. We were there once and even watched a deer walk up close among the birds. It's wonderful for all nature lovers, or for those growing to be. <br />
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After a birdwatching morning we were inspired...<br />
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We went to the library and checked out a few bird books for little ones.<br />
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51P6JWXCKHL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51P6JWXCKHL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crinkleroots-Birds-Every-Child-Should/dp/002705859X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358280662&sr=8-1&keywords=25+birds+children+know">Crinkleroot's 25 Birds Every Child Should Know </a></div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WKXS0HDWL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WKXS0HDWL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Whats-That-Bird-Getting-Around/dp/1580175546/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1358280803&sr=1-1&keywords=what%27s+that+bird%3F">What's That Bird? Getting to Know the Birds Around You</a></div>
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We went to the Tractor Supply Company and purchased some bird seed. I'm not sure if we were lucky or bought poor quality bird seed (we'll see!), but suet cakes were only $1.50 there and some were even 99 cents. I've never seen them so inexpensively :) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.kiwicrate.com/live/main/tproject/i838e8afb1ca3/115d9e65e738.jpg?1358281031623" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://images.kiwicrate.com/live/main/tproject/i838e8afb1ca3/115d9e65e738.jpg?1358281031623" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from kiwi crate</td></tr>
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We came back and made bird feeders and <a href="http://www.kiwicrate.com/s/project/index/p/1251/">ice laterns</a> that are currently freezing.<br />
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This <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/patriciaspics/5295146740/">wreath bird feeder</a> is freezing now... easy and fun to assemble!<br />
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We'll try to work on a few more this week. Pinterest provided lots of inspiration...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcAVgmo6iYcF0hATidYLIOMXlE3vrRbYwTjShfNSXOh24Ft9pywGaIsZrduZeXQ67fwkgtFRluQEa2pKX6QT2jkfB6P6UD-6nsp4X1kS0e4wi9hjA-YBCv1oNa5AbZL9H9etPDTvn4Bks/s400/bird+feeder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcAVgmo6iYcF0hATidYLIOMXlE3vrRbYwTjShfNSXOh24Ft9pywGaIsZrduZeXQ67fwkgtFRluQEa2pKX6QT2jkfB6P6UD-6nsp4X1kS0e4wi9hjA-YBCv1oNa5AbZL9H9etPDTvn4Bks/s320/bird+feeder.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from moffatt girls</td></tr>
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We made <a href="http://moffattgirls.blogspot.com/2011/02/toiletpaper-roll-bird-feeders.html">these</a> last year and had great luck. Can't get much easier for little hands. Matt would also be happy for me to utilize some of the toilet paper rolls I'm always stashing away for projects :)<br />
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<br />We may try these in the upcoming days...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://handsonaswegrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2011-02-09_0664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://handsonaswegrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/2011-02-09_0664.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from hands on as we grow</td></tr>
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Just a slice of bread, cut out, spread with peanut butter, pressed into bird seed, and dried! <a href="http://handsonaswegrow.com/homemade-heart-bird-feeder/">Simple</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/iheartnewyork/2141537654/">This</a> looks like lots of fun, and would likely attract interesting birds to the fruit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tonyastaab.typepad.com/.a/6a0120a61aa83a970c01538f428787970b-450wi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://tonyastaab.typepad.com/.a/6a0120a61aa83a970c01538f428787970b-450wi" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from create celebrate explore</td></tr>
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Finally, when Moriah's older this <a href="http://www.tonyastaab.com/2011/06/x-treme-bird-feeders.html">popsicle stick bird house</a> would be fun to assemble together.<br />
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We planned a post-nap trip to bundle up, ride the (child's) Gator, and fill up the real bird feeders in the "back forty" as Mr. S. calls it. <br />
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While birds were on my mind I starting looking out the window while I did dishes as all settled into their naps and rest time. I noticed birds flying here and there then looked twice. The birds I saw in this very yard were some of the great birds we enjoyed at the Nature Center. <br />
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I'm thankful that my dad taught me their names. My Grandma Nettie did as well though I didn't always care too much then. Now I'm glad to know them... we've enjoyed some tufted titmice, downy woodpeckers, nuthatches (that go down the tree backwards, how fun!), blue jays, and cardinals. There's another woodpecker I'm seeing too but haven't figured out yet... we'll look in our bird book tonight. <br />
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How come I hadn't seen them yet this winter? First I thought perhaps they'd just arrived. Then I realized that of course I haven't been looking. How much of God's wonderful creation do I miss when I just haven't been looking? Probably a lot! <br />
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I thanked the Lord for the birds, and His creation of so many amazing varities. I thanked Him for a life slow enough to see the birds today. And I prayed for more days with the birds wherever He leads us this year. Maybe we'll even have a home with a window over a kitchen sink so I can enjoy more bird watching. A simple life is blessed.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-90450639417259316922013-01-14T12:00:00.002-08:002013-01-14T12:00:22.184-08:00Thanks this New Year<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><br /> <span class="pibfi_pinterest"><br /> <img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /><br /> <span class="xc_pin" onclick="pin_this(event, 'http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http://www.aholyexperience.com/2003/06/buttons-to-use-and-share/&media=http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg&description=Buttons')"><br /> </span><br /> </span></a><br />
1266. a New Year and God's grace<br />
1267. my husband who serves us when I'm sick and can't<br />
1268. giggles from Moriah as she plays with daddy<br />
1269. urgent care and no wait<br />
1270. intentionality and the fruitfulness God gives<br />
1271. back to a "normal" routine<br />
1272. a playdate with friends and little ones<br />
1273. finding new books to read<br />
1274. God's amazing work on behalf of His people, that He would part the sea and lead them to safety, He has done no less in giving us Christ<br />
1275. Seminary classes paid for, God's faithfulness seen so clearly to us<br />
1276. talking with a faraway friend, feeling like faraway isn't so far<br />
1277. encouragement for Matt in a phone call and a possibility, God will be faithful<br />
1278. wise words that are timed to help me re-think my selfishness with time as a mom, thankful for The Mission of Motherhood<br />
1279. chocolate pudding faces and delight in a special treat<br />
1280. new houseplants adding green<br />
1281. repotting our succulents into a "terrarium" of sorts<br />
1282. a new recipe that tastes good to all<br />
1283. breakfast-for-dinner pot-lucks, a theme that always delivers!<br />
1284. community from friends who walk along with us<br />
1285. the respectful way our church members nurture Matt and I, and love us well<br />
1286. protection in a fall from a ladder, thankful for Jimmy<br />
1287. our little girl learning to pray, thanking God and asking God every day<br />
1288. a free class to try some little gymnastics, good for a cold morning<br />
1289. grace lived out to me by my employers, I've never seen it so clearly<br />
1290. my husband's service and care<br />
1291. trusting in God for whatever He has planned, knowing it will be good<br />
1292. a taste of a cookie cake shared<br />
1293. trail mix<br />
1294. that searching for pleasures of any kind will leave us empty-handed without an answer, Solomon in Ecclesiastes<br />
1295. looking back and seeing God's purposes in such a book as Ecclesiasties, we will always be looking, or we we finally receive "it" only to our great disappointment, the rest that comes with contentment is promised in Christ aloneLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-91032466696509243302013-01-10T17:51:00.002-08:002013-01-10T17:51:51.863-08:00Back to "normal" Meal Plans<h2>
Mid-January Meal Plans</h2>
After the holidays, guests, lots of leftovers, and sickness I'm ready to get back to our normal meal planning routine. I'm also ready to get "back to normal" in other areas of life too, but I'm not feeling 100% yet, so I'm starting small :)<br />
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After about two months (or maybe three?!) of our Fall/Winter meal plans, I'm also a bit bored. This week's meal plan is a hodge-podge of Pinterest inspiration or other things we haven't had lately. We also have plans to eat out with a friend one evening, and to join our community group for a pot-luck as well.<br />
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Friday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.livebetteramerica.com/recipes/healthified-cashew-chicken-and-broccoli/af26a9fc-7a88-41ef-ac4f-ffe78cd587ae">"healthified" cashew chicken and broccoli</a>, rice, crab rangoon (frozen or from a local Chinese restuarant!)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/gmi-digital-library/a06ae0e3-6151-4408-b11a-3d7942300337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/gmi-digital-library/a06ae0e3-6151-4408-b11a-3d7942300337.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Live Better America</td></tr>
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Saturday:</div>
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out after church</div>
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Sunday:</div>
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<a href="http://cdargis.tumblr.com/post/18818836004/garlic-pesto-chicken-with-tomato-cream-penne">garlic pesto chicken and tomato pasta</a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0ftwwOrSG1qma8fzo1_500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0ftwwOrSG1qma8fzo1_500.png" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Southern Girl Cooking</td></tr>
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Monday:</div>
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small group pot-luck</div>
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Tuesday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/popular-ingredients/hard-boiled-egg-recipes-00000000055889/page3.html">English muffins topped with hard boiled egg, tomato, and mozzarella</a>, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/caramelized-turnips/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=turnip&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page">carmelized turnips</a></div>
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(the turnips were a gift from church members that we're thankful to try!)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4-1.realsimple.timeinc.net/images/food-recipes/recipe-collections/0404/pizza_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img4-1.realsimple.timeinc.net/images/food-recipes/recipe-collections/0404/pizza_300.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Real Simple</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/userphotos/250x250/00/71/86/718657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/userphotos/250x250/00/71/86/718657.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from All Recipes</td></tr>
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Wednesday:</div>
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waffles</div>
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Thursday:</div>
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leftovers</div>
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Friday:</div>
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<a href="http://thedoughwillriseagain.wordpress.com/2012/07/31/honey-lime-shrimp/">honey lime shrimp</a>, rice, sweet potato fries</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thedoughwillriseagain.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/photo-120-e1343742752527.jpeg?w=300&h=266" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://thedoughwillriseagain.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/photo-120-e1343742752527.jpeg?w=300&h=266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from The Dough Will Rise Again</td></tr>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-48686943743142380302013-01-03T05:23:00.001-08:002013-01-03T05:23:29.312-08:00Books To Read in 2013<h2>
Books Worth Reading 2013</h2>
Here's my list of books that I'd love to <a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2013/01/goals-for-2013.html">read this year</a>. Some have been on my night stand or mental book list for awhile now, and others are recent purchases. I also have a re-read list as I know there are books I read once that would be more helpful in my current season of life than they were when I first read them (often as I anticipated a new season's arrival, haha). I love to read and often find other good fiction books at the public library, though I'm hoping to read through my list of books with greater priority than others I'll discover. If you'd be curious about other good books of various genres, I've developed a page to chronicle my current reads. Follow the link on the left side of my blog or click <a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/p/recently-reading.html">here</a>! I also have an ongoing <a href="http://pinterest.com/laurapeery/books-worth-reading/">Pinterest board</a> with book ideas I come across. If I finish this list, I may hunt for some of those, though I hope to read what I have first. There are other classics in Christian literature that I've re-shelved with my husband's books and would love to get back out as well. We'll see how it goes.<br />
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Books to read (in no particular order)...</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Womanly-Dominion-Gentle-Quiet-Spirit/dp/1879737604/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156703&sr=1-1&keywords=womanly+dominion">Womanly Dominion</a> by: Mark Chanski</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41naWw1uzRL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41naWw1uzRL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mission-Motherhood-Touching-Childs-Eternity/dp/1578565812/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156677&sr=1-1&keywords=mission+of+motherhood">Mission of Motherhood</a> by: Sally Clarkson</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Steady-Days-Intentional-Professional-Motherhood/dp/0984124608/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156642&sr=1-1&keywords=steady+days">Steady Days</a> by: Jamie Martin</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Teach-Them-Diligently-Scriptures-Training/dp/1889032603/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156584&sr=1-2&keywords=teach+them+diligently">Teach Them Diligently</a> by: Louis Priolo</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Things-Parents-Teach-Children-Themselves/dp/0801083737/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156535&sr=1-1&keywords=ten+things+parents+should+teach+children+edith">10 Things Parents Must Teach Their Children</a> by: Edith Schaeffer</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/George-Muller-Delighted-God-HistoryMakers/dp/1845501209/ref=sr_1_9?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156444&sr=1-9&keywords=george+muller">George Muller</a> by: Roger Steer</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51gRgpApxWL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51gRgpApxWL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Almost-Amish-Womans-Simpler-Sustainable/dp/1414326998/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156417&sr=1-1&keywords=almost+amish">Almost Amish</a> by: Nancy Sleeth</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Place-Quiet-Rest-Intimacy-Devotional/dp/0802466435/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156385&sr=1-1&keywords=place+of+quiet+rest">Place of Quiet Rest</a> by: Nancy Leigh DeMoss</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Cll43yNjL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Cll43yNjL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Be-Still-Soul-Elisabeth-Elliot/dp/0800759893/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1357156327&sr=8-2&keywords=be+still+my+soul">Be Still My Soul</a> by: Elisabeth Elliot</div>
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<a href="http://www.canonpress.org/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=638&idcategory=">Fit To Burst</a>* by: Rachel Jankovic (one book on my list I don't own yet)</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/219FKADQQEL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/219FKADQQEL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Heaven-Home-Establishing-Enjoying-Peaceful/dp/0976758245/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357157648&sr=1-1&keywords=heaven+at+home">Heaven At Home</a>* by: Ginger Plowman (another to purchase)</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51woZW9K8jL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51woZW9K8jL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Questions-About-Interpreting-Answers-Series/dp/082543498X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1357175006&sr=8-1&keywords=40+questions+about+interpreting+the+bible">40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible</a> by: Robert Plummer </div>
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(this is my text book for a Seminary Wives class later this Spring)</div>
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Books to re-read...</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51I1aOaWgZL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51I1aOaWgZL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Womans-High-Calling-Ways-Live/dp/0736930272/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156737&sr=1-1&keywords=a+woman%27s+high+calling+by+elizabeth+george">A Woman's High Calling</a> by: Elizabeth George</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Uji4Wf2nL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Uji4Wf2nL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Keep-Quiet-Heart-Elisabeth-Elliot/dp/0800759907/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156777&sr=1-1&keywords=keep+a+quiet+heart">Keep A Quiet Heart</a> by: Elisabeth Elliot</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416Eb9lUHgL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416Eb9lUHgL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Loving-Little-Years-Motherhood-Trenches/dp/1591280818/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156804&sr=1-1&keywords=loving+the+little+years">Loving The Little Years</a> by: Rachel Jankovic</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41PFN8JBVDL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41PFN8JBVDL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Make-Me-Count-Three/dp/0972304649/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156840&sr=1-1&keywords=don%27t+make+me+count+to+three">Don't Make Me Count to Three</a> by: Ginger Plowman</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41dJeP6EAQL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41dJeP6EAQL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hannah-Coulter-Wendell-Berry/dp/1593760787/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357156942&sr=1-1&keywords=hannah+coulter">Hannah Coulter</a> by: Wendell Berry</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41aLXew1AUL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41aLXew1AUL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Womans-Adornment--Go-Devotionals/dp/1433513013/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357219174&sr=1-4&keywords=lydia+brownback">Joy</a> by: Lydia Brownback</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Tin-HTL3L._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Tin-HTL3L._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Contentment-Womans-Adornment--Go-Devotionals/dp/1581349580/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357219174&sr=1-5&keywords=lydia+brownback">Contentment</a> by: Lydia Brownback</div>
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What suggestions do you have for me? Have you discovered a new favorite book lately?<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-6980559876907956572013-01-02T11:33:00.001-08:002013-01-03T18:12:48.453-08:00Goals for 2013I'm really not one for big resolutions. I have realized this year especially that setting goals does help me a lot as I tend to be pretty goal oriented and like the challenge of following through and accountability goal setting provides. (My husband also helps me to remember that I need to offer myself grace when goals aren't met rather than approaching them legalistically, or as a priority over people!) One of my Seminary Wives classes over time management really encouraged goal setting in specific ways. I'm planning to put those lessons into practice and set some big goals for the year that I'll break down into more attainable small goals along the way. Tonight, the big goals come first...<br />
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PERSONAL GOALS:<br />
- Exercise (pilates on YouTube, toning, strength) 4 mornings weekly building up to 30 minutes or so<br />
- Spend time on-line only when Moriah is sleeping and fast from computer usage once a month for a week<br />
- READ from my book lists (new-to-me reading and re-reading), hoping to complete them both<br />
- Complete three mornings (30 minutes each) of lessons weekly with Moriah from our ABC Jesus Loves me curriculum <br />
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SPIRITUAL GOALS:<br />
- Continue daily Bible readings with She Reads Truth plans on YouVersion<br />
- Grow in prayer time using a prayer notebook and prayer calendars for mothers and wives <br />
(I'm also taking a Seminary Wives class called "Lessons in Prayer" which will offer additional application I'm sure!)<br />
- Disciple a new believer in our congregation, meeting once a week (details TBD though I'm planning to read through "Big Truths for Young Hearts" with her as a general overview of systematic theology which will cover all areas of life - while it can be used with children the foreword also suggests it's useful for teaching young Christians of all ages as well)<br />
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FINANCIAL GOALS:<br />
- Pay off remaining medical debt<br />
- Pay remaining Seminary expenses by semester's due date<br />
- Save! (in general and specifically for our Florida vacation in February and children's consignment shopping)<br />
- Maintain a financial journal of God's faithful provision throughout the year, updating as He graces us<br />
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As a method of accountability, I hope to check in at the beginning of each month and update my progress in these areas. Do you set goals often? <br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-88939446116883104452012-12-23T06:00:00.000-08:002012-12-23T13:25:52.150-08:00Our Christmas Letter 2012<i>This is the letter we sent with Christmas cards this year. I always loved reading Christmas letters sent to us growing up, and have enjoyed this tradition for our family as well. I can never send as many cards and letters as I'd like, so you all can read it here if you're interested... We'd welcome your prayers as our letter says with much newness as the anticipation grows while we await God's plans for us in the coming months and year!</i><br />
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“From the fullness of His grace we have all received one
blessing after another” as John 1:16 proclaims. We found this passage to be a concise summary of our walk
with the Lord over the last year as a family. We pray that you too would say that it is only by His grace
that we enjoy the abundance of blessings He bestows in Christ.</div>
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Later this month we will celebrate our 5<sup>th</sup>
wedding anniversary. Time is
moving quickly as we reflect on this milestone, while reporting a growing love
for one another each day. This
fifth year of marriage comes in the midst of many approaching changes. Matt completes his Master’s of Divinity
in May 2013, Lord willing. He is
diligently applying for full time pastoral positions throughout the country and
praying fervently for the Lord to direct his path as he leads our family. Please pray for us this year as the
Lord leads us in the next season of life post-seminary. </div>
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Moriah remains our great joy as a busy two-year-old little
girl. She is often found talking
up a storm, laughing, and lately squealing (like only a little girl can!). She plays with her favorite doll, “Baby
Jane” and a teddy bear called “Cubby”.
She also rides “Cocoa” her rocking horse often. Her imagination is growing, leading to
great playtime adventures as a doctor, ambulance driver, and sleigh rider (when
we listen to “Jingle Bells”) most recently. Moriah always looks forward to playing with Daddy in the
evenings and on the weekends. She
spends time with Mommy cooking in the kitchen, and is becoming such a big
helper as she cracks eggs, and loves to scoop, pour, and stir! </div>
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Matt continues to faithfully serve during his third year as
a pastor of our rural Kentucky church. We have been encouraged by the faith of our members, the
interest of a few new visitors, and an upcoming baptism this year. We praise God for using Matt, for His
glory. Outside of church, Matt
works full time as a bank teller to provide for our family. This job blesses us with flexible
hours, and regular days with evenings and most weekends off. Finally, Matt is completing his studies
this year at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. This year has given Matt the
opportunity to grow in many practical areas of ministry through his
coursework. <br />
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As a nanny I spend my days with Moriah and her two great
friends, Mr. S. (4 years old) and Ms. M.K. (18 months old). We have great fun together and our days
are full as you can imagine! I’ve
enjoyed more time to read this year and have found myself lost in many good
books. I also find inspiration as
a wife, homemaker, mom, and nanny on Pinterest which gives me a constant supply
of recipes and projects to try when I can. This year the Lord allowed me to rejoice with three friends
on each of their wedding days.
It’s always sweet to celebrate the marriages of godly couples that are
serving the Lord together. </div>
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We’re so thankful for your prayers and support as our family
and friends. You have been an
invaluable source of God’s love to us through your kindness, willingness to
help, and generosity this year. We
have “received one blessing after another”. </div>
<!--EndFragment-->Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-29221248711285549652012-12-22T06:00:00.000-08:002012-12-22T06:00:07.752-08:00Homemade Treats - Granola<h2>
Homemade Granola</h2>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I shared our favorite recipe for <a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/12/homemade-treats-chai-tea-mix.html">Homemade Chai Tea Mix</a>. <br />Today it's Granola. <br />This is a great version of granola in my opinion. <br />I tried making a few other granola recipes before and really wasn't pleased. <br />This one isn't overly sweet to me, but has enough flavor to <br />be enjoyed without adding anything else to sweeten it! <br />I especially love to eat my granola with yogurt and dried cranberries.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbL1PcWFfvAI4NElTJZpZzmlRXmoIdCs3LhjMLCxrT1wJwYWIMaNEfRE6w3eeRnQP612aNsRBjMDXxbDAS0y2hyphenhyphenEWqFh4nO7CRIG3E7myossw1DtezduYE0-HNke1vmuouVZ212ppHW5NJ/s1600/100_0688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbL1PcWFfvAI4NElTJZpZzmlRXmoIdCs3LhjMLCxrT1wJwYWIMaNEfRE6w3eeRnQP612aNsRBjMDXxbDAS0y2hyphenhyphenEWqFh4nO7CRIG3E7myossw1DtezduYE0-HNke1vmuouVZ212ppHW5NJ/s320/100_0688.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a cookbook from my little friend Mr. S. and his family last year at Christmas, <br />this is one of their family's recipes that I'm thankful they shared!</td></tr>
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<b>Granola</b><br />
dry ingredients:<br />
7 3/4 c old-fashioned oats<br />
1 1/4 c coconut<br />
3/4 c brown sugar<br />
1 c wheat germ<br />
1 c chopped pecans or almonds<br />
1 c chopped walnuts<br />
1/2 c sunflower seeds<br />
wet ingredients:<br />
1 1/2 tsp vanilla<br />
3/4 c vegetable oil<br />
3/4 c water<br />
<br />
Mix all dry ingredients in a LARGE bowl. <br />
Mix wet ingredients separately, then pour over dry mixture and stir to combine well.<br />
Pour granola onto 2 rimmed cookie sheets.<br />
Bake granola at 350 degrees, about 30 minutes total.<br />
While baking, stir granola every 10 minutes and rotate cookie sheets between oven racks.<br />
Cool granola, and store in an airtight container.<br />
(If you add dried fruit, stir in once granola cools.)<br />
<br />
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More pictures of the process...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAJzOrtWo0fCFrAzC81DLReRNAI0UAwVEkq2sbdbstfAlUGTF_oHvgEx7RMFFkB34ijJs69KfLI-FD0WV9oCd-iCrWXdjrKoS4HCHogo52ra3xTAS9ObRRzUmZ-196XiZBSAh5UksHiuu/s1600/100_0690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAJzOrtWo0fCFrAzC81DLReRNAI0UAwVEkq2sbdbstfAlUGTF_oHvgEx7RMFFkB34ijJs69KfLI-FD0WV9oCd-iCrWXdjrKoS4HCHogo52ra3xTAS9ObRRzUmZ-196XiZBSAh5UksHiuu/s320/100_0690.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">with the nuts, not exactly a frugal recipe <br />though you'll have TONS of granola to enjoy</td></tr>
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Mix dry ingredients, make sure you have a HUGE bowl!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCewjCaDtsP2xeUxbAQG_WF7qJ5GZiqtJg7HQUsT65jMYyoWAT6wyyXWEXH1pASDKSRH2xpmTbr0QG2vZpmslBD8F79zFARpu9SytCjwns4PK6RDmxBuYHTnba0TFmhnINNNS1oeQ3UrO/s1600/100_0693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCewjCaDtsP2xeUxbAQG_WF7qJ5GZiqtJg7HQUsT65jMYyoWAT6wyyXWEXH1pASDKSRH2xpmTbr0QG2vZpmslBD8F79zFARpu9SytCjwns4PK6RDmxBuYHTnba0TFmhnINNNS1oeQ3UrO/s320/100_0693.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you might enjoy making this on a pajama morning :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKRdsKDDl8XD1qen8Lq44lx4PpuBPesy6MPZfOd63kS8YCfnxco3jlYrOJnUcRxq3e0BTakqOp8sGM4LkVIHPEGK7u4fGN6rub7jkMbo2bhfzVcX7vsWlXXsa9V8DsKZhDXpX9ChiAhC0/s1600/100_0694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKRdsKDDl8XD1qen8Lq44lx4PpuBPesy6MPZfOd63kS8YCfnxco3jlYrOJnUcRxq3e0BTakqOp8sGM4LkVIHPEGK7u4fGN6rub7jkMbo2bhfzVcX7vsWlXXsa9V8DsKZhDXpX9ChiAhC0/s320/100_0694.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">well mixed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Og1c_pEKYZRCz2iko5sBw7BwgI73Lt1ExDzNCxf5vDJ7om1kc3NZrTHgWPCfKt4KeH2XawMgIrIzNcskgGHsUbmCoioB4pksuMc9MQtWxt8wf8qRzjMzWGDvEI8rVgCjFOcKEj1LOH0_/s1600/100_0696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Og1c_pEKYZRCz2iko5sBw7BwgI73Lt1ExDzNCxf5vDJ7om1kc3NZrTHgWPCfKt4KeH2XawMgIrIzNcskgGHsUbmCoioB4pksuMc9MQtWxt8wf8qRzjMzWGDvEI8rVgCjFOcKEj1LOH0_/s320/100_0696.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">baking, rotate the cookie sheets as you stir <br />the granola every 10 minutes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_rd4-uQ5Lf1tuYoDDRXzeB6MdAV1UTC5rhjM7LrOMqz6Xm1MMgyfjoUDULfPfmB5I7HPtCxgtQ7Y_OCWQO5LMQIMRtoQV2zCJzPVk7xwyuBCaq8g4popUlBvAckRfabJEwAfLITtlEHE/s1600/100_0698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_rd4-uQ5Lf1tuYoDDRXzeB6MdAV1UTC5rhjM7LrOMqz6Xm1MMgyfjoUDULfPfmB5I7HPtCxgtQ7Y_OCWQO5LMQIMRtoQV2zCJzPVk7xwyuBCaq8g4popUlBvAckRfabJEwAfLITtlEHE/s320/100_0698.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one tray complete</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyclQ0g8NyVjsNUpOUfbZLUUyEEl5dX3W34HN1PMSPD8g4fDbrGKURr3cmz8c2ANqZN9_DVgZfksqxhuIJzfzTxaQBAAVkLxg9l7myhwxmZs7a8gcxb4ysh6hKlf8igHpmrChN6-unTocX/s1600/100_0699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyclQ0g8NyVjsNUpOUfbZLUUyEEl5dX3W34HN1PMSPD8g4fDbrGKURr3cmz8c2ANqZN9_DVgZfksqxhuIJzfzTxaQBAAVkLxg9l7myhwxmZs7a8gcxb4ysh6hKlf8igHpmrChN6-unTocX/s320/100_0699.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the other, a bit more well done</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMEk0nlJKVKr7rMzwG0tQ1PeSLvW_K3DRV1Ll__Jg7EpCOVKRdtjMq7VFIirGlPmOZX4SjfFPwGrBZbtvl0P12txr48xILAxyKyo0QGJqS_rkTZam998OvjjSEKPJc9uUFsEVCHmsClrT/s1600/100_0704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMEk0nlJKVKr7rMzwG0tQ1PeSLvW_K3DRV1Ll__Jg7EpCOVKRdtjMq7VFIirGlPmOZX4SjfFPwGrBZbtvl0P12txr48xILAxyKyo0QGJqS_rkTZam998OvjjSEKPJc9uUFsEVCHmsClrT/s320/100_0704.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my mom's Tupperware lives on <br />for which we are most thankful!</td></tr>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-72961992268462936882012-12-21T12:18:00.000-08:002012-12-21T12:18:32.103-08:00Meal Plans for Christmas Hospitality<h2>
Meal Plans for Christmas</h2>
<div>
This year our families are coming to us for Christmas. We'll add 6 more adults (4 men!) to our dinners, so my refrigerator is more full than it's ever been in preparation :) Before our family arrives, we'll enjoy a quiet Christmas here, and have a big breakfast to celebrate, complete with a birthday cake for baby Jesus as Moriah's insisted! These are the plans...</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Friday -</div>
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<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
leftovers</div>
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Saturday -</div>
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possibly out with friends after church</div>
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Sunday -</div>
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<a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2012/01/slow-cooker-ham-white-beans.html">Crock Pot ham and beans</a></div>
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Jiffy cornbread muffins</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgqkaVmiqivOnwvog6Swv5NOM1fgzFCgIY41aykUOcS3jf_hGPCN0raeyoWqKdsTO039x1ni0fx9RPPt-MDYaXsFpwQFi7oOzPGyEcgQPqtB5hWcqiWwufyUetFR0rgKy4l-mHnOfmpLW/s640/IMG_1775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgqkaVmiqivOnwvog6Swv5NOM1fgzFCgIY41aykUOcS3jf_hGPCN0raeyoWqKdsTO039x1ni0fx9RPPt-MDYaXsFpwQFi7oOzPGyEcgQPqtB5hWcqiWwufyUetFR0rgKy4l-mHnOfmpLW/s320/IMG_1775.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Plain Chicken</td></tr>
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Monday -</div>
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homemade pizza with sausage and vegetables</div>
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Tuesday, Christmas! -</div>
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orange juice, chai tea, apple cider, coffee, tea, hot chocolate (we're well stocked!)</div>
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<a href="http://www.navywifecook.com/2012/01/bacon-egg-and-cheese-ring.html">crescent wreath with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon</a></div>
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cinnamon rolls, <br />(both orange like Matt remembers on Christmas morning and regular <br />from a can this year, I may try Pioneer Woman's in the future)</div>
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fruit salad</div>
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sour cream pound cake with strawberries and whipped cream for Jesus' birthday cake</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsE1KP-TpAb3UqkhD-b8JIxzYydsgzKPVNCY2zIGInOdGfbZzAiFZYBq_M4qeZNKLBUnEsx9QoYYVcl3s357c-R-2-a2nCcWQppXMFR-2aabCV2nLjC3LDJrPTYqiIXKMoq7CBB6QKSpE/s400/Bacon+Egg+Cheese+Ring+H2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsE1KP-TpAb3UqkhD-b8JIxzYydsgzKPVNCY2zIGInOdGfbZzAiFZYBq_M4qeZNKLBUnEsx9QoYYVcl3s357c-R-2-a2nCcWQppXMFR-2aabCV2nLjC3LDJrPTYqiIXKMoq7CBB6QKSpE/s320/Bacon+Egg+Cheese+Ring+H2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Kitchen Life of a Navy Wife</td></tr>
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Wednesday -</div>
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leftovers</div>
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Thursday -</div>
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snack: hummus, pita chips</div>
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spaghetti (with Lotsa Pasta marinara sauce) <br />and <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/spicy-turkey-meatballs-and-spaghetti-recipe/index.html">spicy turkey meatballs</a> (they've been waiting in the freezer), <br />garlic bread, <br /><a href="http://www.thevanillatulip.com/2012/05/meal-planning-week-3-4-54-514.html">oven roasted broccoli</a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.foodnetwork.com/FOOD/2012/05/01/BX0610H_spicy-turkey-meatballs-and-spaghetti_s4x3_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://img.foodnetwork.com/FOOD/2012/05/01/BX0610H_spicy-turkey-meatballs-and-spaghetti_s4x3_lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Food Network</td></tr>
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Friday -</div>
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snack: Lotsa Pasta dip, crackers</div>
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taco bar with <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/slow-cooker-cilantro-lime-chicken/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=cilantro%20lime%20chicken&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1">Crock Pot cilantro lime chicken</a>, and ground beef, <br />hard and soft taco shells, <br />toppings (olives, lettuce, cheese, sour cream), <br /><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2009/03/chipotle-cilantro-lime-rice-4-pts.html">cilantro lime rice</a>, </div>
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black and refried beans</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/userphotos/250x250/00/87/77/877743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/userphotos/250x250/00/87/77/877743.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from All Recipes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3z1vjjgLOcECPvtJ9Rt0m6cZn6B1501I3sBIOcEPWdwuyzcUg0rXjiYgv0wcJkuTvS0vHiAqJEp7s_mY_8l-_f65BOW2jwWshKwkJ7VSoj9KXogOVfuh5fSdZEHr2cOUGvBa3TNXbN8g/s800/cilantro-lime-rice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3z1vjjgLOcECPvtJ9Rt0m6cZn6B1501I3sBIOcEPWdwuyzcUg0rXjiYgv0wcJkuTvS0vHiAqJEp7s_mY_8l-_f65BOW2jwWshKwkJ7VSoj9KXogOVfuh5fSdZEHr2cOUGvBa3TNXbN8g/s320/cilantro-lime-rice.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Skinny Taste</td></tr>
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Saturday -</div>
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snack: cheese ball, crackers</div>
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<a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Buttermilk-Pot-Roast">buttermilk pot roast</a> with potatoes, carrots, and onions, <br />roasted asparagus, <br /><a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/bisquick-sour-cream-biscuits-85148">Bisquick rolls</a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hostedmedia.reimanpub.com/TOH/Images/Photos/37/exps35978_TH1443682D31B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://hostedmedia.reimanpub.com/TOH/Images/Photos/37/exps35978_TH1443682D31B.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Taste of Home</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://food.sndimg.com/img/recipes/85/14/8/large/picsnDfUu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://food.sndimg.com/img/recipes/85/14/8/large/picsnDfUu.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Food.com</td></tr>
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Sunday -</div>
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for church pot-luck <br />(in rural Kentucky... my selections have to be pretty "normal" to be enjoyed! <br />since we're multiplying the size of our tiny church with our additional family <br />members we're bringing a lot to the Christmas pot-luck):</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/12/our-favorite-christmas-cookies-and.html">Christmas cookies</a> <br />(magic cookie bars, caramel brownies, Swedish thumbprint cookies, <br />chocolate gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies)</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.campbellskitchen.com/recipes/recipedetails?recipeid=26017">party potatoes</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1743,144173-248201,00.html">Snickers apple salad</a></div>
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mom's macaroni and cheese</div>
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for dinner -</div>
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snack: summer sausage, Amish cheese, crackers</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/10/chicken-and-wild-rice-soup.html">turkey and wild rice soup</a>, <br /><a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/cheese-garlic-biscuits/afa7e3c4-f295-4384-9524-688e338f08d8">garlic cheddar biscuits</a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7p17VPdyiu-fgKcTJcX_td7vub1jekWiKXfZBOqWfZUP8JlEwNVhEcJJvPrbvP4Ne1S6irmPZQHT7zvQ7AxknCqFfweVPnb1l_5cnLv96O-44Vv0Ajgm4Te5-WxqSwO7EmGxu236z3TiS/s320/DSCF7760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7p17VPdyiu-fgKcTJcX_td7vub1jekWiKXfZBOqWfZUP8JlEwNVhEcJJvPrbvP4Ne1S6irmPZQHT7zvQ7AxknCqFfweVPnb1l_5cnLv96O-44Vv0Ajgm4Te5-WxqSwO7EmGxu236z3TiS/s320/DSCF7760.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chicken (or turkey) and wild rice soup</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Betty Crocker</td></tr>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-81182502607280423252012-12-21T11:25:00.002-08:002012-12-21T11:25:23.786-08:00homemade treats - chai tea mix <h2>
Homemade Chai Tea Mix</h2>
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If you need a last minute Christmas gifts this could be just right! I'd happily receive this anytime :) </div>
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Last year I gave this homemade chai tea mix to a few friends, <br />and Moriah and I made it yesterday as an early gift for Matt. <br />I first enjoyed this after our friend Dollie made it for us <br />as a wedding gift given with other kitchen items. <br />Five years later, it's still a favorite!</div>
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<div>
<b>Chai Tea Mix</b></div>
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1 c nonfat dry powdered milk</div>
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1 c powdered non-dairy creamer</div>
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1 c powdered French vanilla creamer</div>
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2 1/2 c white sugar</div>
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1 1/2 c unsweetened instant tea</div>
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2 tsp ground ginger</div>
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2 tsp ground cinnamon</div>
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1 tsp ground cloves</div>
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1 tsp ground cardamom</div>
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1 tsp ground nutmeg</div>
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1 tsp ground allspice</div>
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1/4 tsp white pepper</div>
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Combine all ingredients thoroughly in blender. To serve, mix 3 (heaping) tablespoons with hot milk.<br />
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*My blender isn't really fancy and has worked for this particular recipe multiple times... but if I wasn't sure about my blender I might not try this unless I was okay with replacing it soon. Mixing dry ingredients only seems to work the motor a bit more, and I'd hate for it to break permanently as a surprise!</div>
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Here are some pictures to illustrate the process...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5D6Rsr5Rj4U5GI2kvYA0tB7ZHrP6obPFk3IylMQKc7iwU6bl5u4aPYqu2dvYKCvlIa1l7JtmSlXlsfwYnw__RFJ3iZiojUbopOGeTaJg0M1M0WcjoV6HuaUWBEJIZmhNiA7tXQT5MxUo/s1600/100_0675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5D6Rsr5Rj4U5GI2kvYA0tB7ZHrP6obPFk3IylMQKc7iwU6bl5u4aPYqu2dvYKCvlIa1l7JtmSlXlsfwYnw__RFJ3iZiojUbopOGeTaJg0M1M0WcjoV6HuaUWBEJIZmhNiA7tXQT5MxUo/s320/100_0675.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lots of spices, but otherwise nothing too expensive<br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb48L7c6YwfeaFffCk8IiJyLxfWGx8bVMbA901RAkpEXRR_xPShhfoQNYjFk8RxX_uYiC6QQm6-Ryg3-JOxgxTt9U76NmzvVgx4E7TkAjnEqZAg0xmrvi9OyLG8BWeCDaqNOuf1JNkc4vY/s1600/100_0682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb48L7c6YwfeaFffCk8IiJyLxfWGx8bVMbA901RAkpEXRR_xPShhfoQNYjFk8RxX_uYiC6QQm6-Ryg3-JOxgxTt9U76NmzvVgx4E7TkAjnEqZAg0xmrvi9OyLG8BWeCDaqNOuf1JNkc4vY/s320/100_0682.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">your blender will be FULL, it's okay!</td></tr>
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As you blend you can see the color starting to change. <br />My blender seems to blend so that the ingredients on the top are pulled down <br />through the middle and work their way back up... it all needs to be well combined!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpg36ZmKXPeZ43bxSyllISaIMI_wpBXNqZ94Q9isHeF6ROUxRFB1TygTC6kLK8tRad7ujw1yz-e6xJA9NIeV3ocXXM55Ww-twfb3sWSoWjW2r9HDJqntT_iamrgSTaApx9ljcdpR9cYSw/s1600/100_0683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpg36ZmKXPeZ43bxSyllISaIMI_wpBXNqZ94Q9isHeF6ROUxRFB1TygTC6kLK8tRad7ujw1yz-e6xJA9NIeV3ocXXM55Ww-twfb3sWSoWjW2r9HDJqntT_iamrgSTaApx9ljcdpR9cYSw/s320/100_0683.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The final product...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTI-klCwhvW3d_9bvqsl9uDHaknUjC3tL4H8uazRCnFDn9GXy_8WM-Ow0uUff68Ycfy1eqYzgHZOf6v8fuLslnbUd8uKcmclF2ou7sl23pvuB6540RUFgtcElYOi9vi7Fos7t5bGNcBK9/s1600/100_0686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTI-klCwhvW3d_9bvqsl9uDHaknUjC3tL4H8uazRCnFDn9GXy_8WM-Ow0uUff68Ycfy1eqYzgHZOf6v8fuLslnbUd8uKcmclF2ou7sl23pvuB6540RUFgtcElYOi9vi7Fos7t5bGNcBK9/s320/100_0686.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Enjoy on a cold winter evening!</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-12811644920824499492012-12-20T11:18:00.000-08:002012-12-20T11:18:04.418-08:00rainy day thanksOn my first full day off work for Christmas break, I've realized I have SO much to be thankful for...<br />
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1251. rain here, not tons of snow like in Kansas City right now<br />
1252. being able to get out in our weather and do a marathon grocery shopping trip<br />
1253. a rain coat for Moriah, a consignment splurge that got great use today!<br />
1254. family coming to visit us, all at once, a big family Christmas that we've never had in our home (even if it's going to be crowded!)<br />
1255. food to share with our families, and some extra snacks and treats too<br />
1256. room in our budget for this special occasion<br />
1257. space in our kitchen to store the food until we start cooking<br />
1258. the rain that stopped just as we got home and I unloaded it all<br />
1259. a little helper who's a good sport while grocery shopping<br />
1260. lots of friendly faces that love to talk with Moriah while we shop<br />
1261. the prospect of homemade chai tea and granola soon (I can post those recipes too!)<br />
1262. sweat pants and a hoodie after my first outfit got soaked going in and out<br />
1263. a good day for Moriah to nap well<br />
1264. Christmas treats a good friend delivered yesterday, tasty today!<br />
1265. a Christmas bonus and a large debt paidLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-41224304390427119482012-12-19T18:59:00.003-08:002012-12-19T19:04:47.064-08:00Moriah's Alphabet Photo Book...<h2>
ABC Photo Book</h2>
Here's a sneak peek at one of Moriah's Christmas gifts. I wanted to make something extra special for her, but didn't make time for a felt book like I'd anticipated months ago. She's been talking so much lately about things that have happened in the past and has been asking lots for me to "tell Moriah about when I was tiny baby" :) She's SO grown up now at the age of 2 in case you didn't know! Making a Photo Book allowed me to use my favorite pictures of her over the last year, so that we could all enjoy them together, and talk about special memories. I had to get pretty creative in thinking of an applicable letter for each picture, so you can laugh at the stretches I imagined. I used Picasa to add the text to each photo and saved it as a new photo file. As I put the photo book together, I realized you can now add text and layer it onto photos with their editing tools. I'll probably save time and do it that way in the future!<br />
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As a nanny, I spend lots of time with our little friends at their house with Moriah as well. If you think it looks like we must be somewhere else, we are! Some of these fun toys are theirs also, and we're so thankful they're willing to share with Moriah as they play together. I made one of these with Mr. S. and Ms. M.K.'s pictures as well as a Christmas gift for their parents. <br />
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It was a fun way to remember our year! Once I got started with this theme I thought of others that would be fun as well. A color Photo Book with pictures to practice color recognition, a counting Photo Book, a seasonal Photo Book showing fun activities for each season or holiday, etc. When Moriah was little I used a free photo book promo to make a really tiny one with pictures of each family member, so we could remember their names together as they live out of state. She loved looking at the faces of the people who love her so much!<br />
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Here it is, A to Z with Moriah :)<br />
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Naked jaybird! </div>
*one of the funny things she says before bath time :) <br />
we'll keep the picture unpublished!<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-29931574624449670952012-12-17T12:12:00.000-08:002012-12-17T12:14:15.504-08:00reason to give thanks even now<h2 style="font-weight: normal;">
<b>Why give thanks even now? </b><b></b></h2>
<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><br /> <span class="pibfi_pinterest"><br /> <img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /><br /> <span class="xc_pin" onclick="pin_this(event, 'http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http://www.aholyexperience.com/2003/06/buttons-to-use-and-share/&media=http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg&description=Buttons')"><br /> </span><br /> </span></a><br />
<b>Giving thanks is that: making the canyon of pain into a
megaphone to proclaim the ultimate goodness of God when Satan and all
the world would sneer at us to recant. <br />- from Ann Voskamp at A Holy Experience today</b><br />
<b><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">In spite of the pain and grief a tragedy causes, praise the Lord that He is near. That His many graces are plentiful even in horrible circumstances around us. In Christ, we give thanks that we have hope for a future when all will be made right, and evil will be fully and finally defeated.</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">I have much to be thankful for, not to boast in, and not because of anything I've done, but only that God would be glorified for His perfect work in my midst. How humbling that He would consider me but that ultimately Christ would submit to the Father's will out of a perfect love for the people He would redeem...</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1222. God's nearness in grief and tragedy, that He knows and loves us</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1223. my sweet little girl, tragedy seems to restart thankfulness for the most obvious blessings</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1224. teachers who love children every day and seek their best, even in times of horror</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1225. Saturday night with friends, celebrating the birthday of a church member</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1226. a BIG fruit basket, enough fruit to fill our refrigerator drawer</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1227. dinner with friends Sunday night too, wonderful meatloaf and mashed potatoes</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1228. a Christmas hymnsing in the most charming little church I've seen lately</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1229. a balcony in the church, so that not everyone could see Moriah who never sat still in the pew (though they heard her little voice echo, "What them singing about Mama?")</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1230. knowing that there are others serving in similar places, seeking to be faithful as they teach God's Word</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1231. the willing response of a new Believer who'd like to learn more</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1232. allergy medicine for Moriah that helps her symptoms </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1233. Matt's refreshment from a week away from work, in class full time, he loved every minute of it</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1234. remembering just now that dinner tonight is in the Crock-Pot!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1235. widows who welcomed us, and would've kept us all day</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1236. the sweet joy of community with others</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1237. my opportunity to worship in church present with others, our sweet friend wants so badly to be there with us again</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1238. time to journal, and a Psalm that gives me words to pray</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1239. to be Matt's wife, marriage is a precious gift</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1240. a morning in bed with Moriah, donuts, and a children's version of "The Nutcracker"</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1241. making sugar cookies to decorate with Matt and Moriah, sprinkles are blissful</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1242. planning our Christmas breakfast feast</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1243. giving a gift that seemed just right, a Life is Good fishing hat for my dad</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1244. finishing projects, and preparing for guests</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1245. an alphabet photobook to give Moriah, capturing the last year in my favorite sweet pictures</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1246. looking forward to a Christmas celebration with our little friends tomorrow</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1247. a break from work, some time at home</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1248. God's precise and perfect provision again, when we weren't sure how, He shows us the way He's planned</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1249. a free Papa John's pizza</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">1250. public libraries and good books waiting for me on hold </span></b>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911002765024660833.post-71801590716454245252012-12-15T17:49:00.000-08:002012-12-15T17:49:02.119-08:00meal plans December 14-21 & chicken tortellini toss<h2>
Meal Plans & Chicken Tortellini Toss Recipe</h2>
<i><br /></i>
<i>Here's another week of meal plans sort of inspired by my Fall/Winter meal plan ideas, but also tweaked as we needed!</i><br />
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Friday:</div>
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Papa John's Pizza and <a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/12/our-favorite-christmas-cookies-and.html">sugar cookies</a></div>
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(like most of America I'd assume, we "won" a free pizza! so I paid for some cheese bread, haha :) <br />we baked and decorated sugar cookies as well)</div>
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Saturday:</div>
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KingFish restaurant</div>
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(some of our church members and friends came in to Louisville for a birthday and invited us along, not only did they buy us a lovely dinner they also gave us our fruit basket Christmas present which is HUGE and such a blessing, it came with some Amish cheese as well!)</div>
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Sunday:</div>
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dinner with friends at their house, we're sharing some sugar cookies too</div>
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(a weekend spent with friends is always nice, we'll enjoy dinner with some friends tonight then venture out together to another rural church in our county for an old fashioned hymn-sing, Christmas style!)</div>
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Monday:</div>
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<a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/02/25/recipe-the-best-whole-chicken-in-a-crock-pot/">Crock Pot whole chicken</a>, <br />acorn squash (microwaved, topped with butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, pecans, cranberries), <br /><a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/cheese-garlic-biscuits/afa7e3c4-f295-4384-9524-688e338f08d8">cheddar biscuits</a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/chicken-500x332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/chicken-500x332.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from 100 Days of Real Food</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/gmi-digital-library/d72354d6-a454-433e-b017-341c286ee6ea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/gmi-digital-library/d72354d6-a454-433e-b017-341c286ee6ea.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Betty Crocker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Tuesday:</div>
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chicken tortellini toss, garlic bread</div>
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(we've enjoyed making the chicken tortellini toss since our friends first brought it to a former small group, thanks <a href="http://savoringlifesblessings.blogspot.com/">Sheryl </a>for sharing your recipe!)</div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/recipe/l_R106533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/recipe/l_R106533.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Better Homes and Gardens</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Chicken Tortellini Toss</b></div>
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<b>2 (9oz) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini</b></div>
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<b>4 c broccoli and/or cauliflower</b></div>
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<b>1 (14.5oz) can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs</b></div>
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<b>1/2 (10oz) jar basil pesto</b></div>
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<b>1 (9oz) pkg chicken breast strips (or other cooked chicken you may have on hand)</b></div>
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<b>parmesan cheese</b></div>
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<b>mushrooms or other vegetables, optional</b></div>
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</div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Cook tortellini as directed on package.</b></div>
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<b>Add broccoli during last 3 minutes of cooking.</b></div>
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<b>Drain all and return to pan.</b></div>
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<b>Stir in tomatoes (undrained), pesto, chicken, and any additional vegetables.</b></div>
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<b>Cook until heated through.</b></div>
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<b>Top with cheese.</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wednesday:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
leftovers</div>
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<br />
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Thursday:</div>
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<a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/10/chicken-and-wild-rice-soup.html"></a><a href="http://lauraslouisvillelife.blogspot.com/2012/10/chicken-and-wild-rice-soup.html">chicken and wild rice soup</a>, fruit, cheddar biscuits (if any are left!)</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7p17VPdyiu-fgKcTJcX_td7vub1jekWiKXfZBOqWfZUP8JlEwNVhEcJJvPrbvP4Ne1S6irmPZQHT7zvQ7AxknCqFfweVPnb1l_5cnLv96O-44Vv0Ajgm4Te5-WxqSwO7EmGxu236z3TiS/s320/DSCF7760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7p17VPdyiu-fgKcTJcX_td7vub1jekWiKXfZBOqWfZUP8JlEwNVhEcJJvPrbvP4Ne1S6irmPZQHT7zvQ7AxknCqFfweVPnb1l_5cnLv96O-44Vv0Ajgm4Te5-WxqSwO7EmGxu236z3TiS/s320/DSCF7760.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chicken and wild rice soup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Friday:</div>
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waffles, eggs</div>
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<i>I'm looking forward to next week's meal plans as we'll be doing lots of cooking for Christmas, family visiting, and a church pot-luck!</i></div>
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<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09994084985163251792noreply@blogger.com0