tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63130092833376188312024-03-05T16:08:44.251-08:00Melody's MuseCookies, cupcakes, cats, coupons, and craziness...that's what happy mommies are made of!Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.comBlogger806125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-58775712947007160072018-01-31T14:46:00.002-08:002018-01-31T14:46:46.158-08:00The First "Change" That Ever Brought Me Peace...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">You might be able to tell by the title of this post...I hate change.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">Normally, I fight it...it makes me nervous...worried...</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">But this past week, I made a change...one you'll probably never expect...</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">One you probably never saw coming...</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">And it has brought me more peace than I could have EVER imagined.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"><br /></span><span id="yiv5807393820yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1517008574314_5955" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">Last week was quite a week. </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">Never have I been more stressed, worried, and afraid.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">Exhaustion and tears filled my week.</span></div>
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My entire life, I have loved working with children.</div>
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"You should be a teacher!" people said to me.</div>
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I have always love teaching/training people how to do things.</div>
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"You should be a teacher!" people said to me.</div>
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I have a lot of patience.</div>
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"You should be a teacher!" people said to me.</div>
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Ok. I guess I'll be a teacher!</div>
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People said I'd be good at it.</div>
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I liked playing school as a child.</div>
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I didn't know what else I should be/do.</div>
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I'll be a teacher.</div>
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I can handle that.<br />
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I never even thought about being anything else.<br />
I never really considered myself very smart or career-oriented.<br />
But I figured I could balance my true love (being a mom and wife) with a teaching career.</div>
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As I went through all of my education classes at WGU, I really enjoyed them.</div>
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But as I got closer and closer to student teaching...the anxiety started coming.</div>
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I kept brushing it off.</div>
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I'm sure it will go away as it gets closer I thought.</div>
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Friends told me, "You're going to LOVE student teaching!"</div>
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It got closer and closer...and the anxiety got worse and worse.</div>
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By the time last fall rolled around and I began my pre-clinical observations at the local elementary school...I was literally having panic attacks at the thought of standing in front of a classroom.</div>
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The thought of teaching an entire class of kids...dealing with classroom management/discipline...it was overwhelming me.<br />
It wasn't just nerves.<br />
It wasn't the kind of thing that goes away with practice.<br />
I was having SERIOUS DOUBTS about my career choice and degree program.<br />
Did I really even WANT to become a teacher?<br />
Was it REALLY for me?</div>
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I LOVE working one-on-one with students.</div>
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I LOVE working in small groups of students.</div>
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I LOVE working with and helping families.</div>
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But the thought of teaching in the classroom kept sending me into full blown panic attacks and it just wasn't something I really looked forward to or could see myself doing.</div>
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By the time January rolled around it was really bad.</div>
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But I kept telling myself, "You just gotta get through these 12 weeks."</div>
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On Monday when my placement specialist told me there was a cancellation in Mattawan that he might be able to slide me into for student teaching...to tell you the honest truth...it wasn't the DRIVE that bothered me so much (an hour away). It wasn't the fact that it was FIFTH GRADE that bothered me so much (I adore the younger kiddos). Although NEITHER of those were appealing. It was the fact that I'd be standing in front of the classroom teaching. I was terrified. And I honestly just didn't want to do it! As it turned out, door after door kept closing with various student teaching placement options. I didn't know whether to be discouraged or rejoice, honestly.</div>
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Hubby and I talked and talked and talked all week long deciding what I should do. I had been praying and soul-searching. My heart just wasn't in teaching anymore.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was enrolled in the BAISK8 program (bachelor of arts interdisciplinary studies k-8) which leads to state certification/licensure for teaching. I later found out there was another program called BAES (bachelor of arts educational studies). The only difference in the BAES program was, in the last semester instead of doing student teaching and applying for a state teaching certificate, there are additional classes and a culminating graduation research project/senior thesis to be completed. The BAES program does not lead to a teaching certificate. It is a more broad/generalized education degree. When I thought about the BAES program, I'd have complete peace in my heart. When I'd go back to the BAISK8 program, the anxiety, panic attacks, and doubt came back. I was in tears trying to decide what to do. I talked to my adviser. She had told me that generally one is not allowed to change programs mid-term. So I poured out my heart and told her everything I had been experiencing and she said, "Let me make some phone calls."</span><br />
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I spoke with my adviser again the next day and found out we had been granted permission to change my program! Her manager made the necessary changes and I have changed my program to the BAES (bachelor of arts educational studies) program. I will not be teaching. I have done soul-searching and come to the conclusion that I honestly don't want to teach in the elementary classroom. I will not regret my decision. I did a lot of research and looked at all of the possibilities of career choices I can enter with the BAES degree. There is a broad range of career options that appeal to me! At this point in my life...what I have wanted more than anything, was the actual accomplishment of graduating college and earning my degree. I wanted to be able to say, "I DID IT!" It wasn't that I wanted to honestly be a teacher. I wanted that DEGREE and COLLEGE EDUCATION more than anything! I wanted to be able to say, "I'M SMARTER THAN I THOUGHT!" "I DID IT!" So I'm proud to say, in May I will have my degree! I am going to have to work even harder the next four months because I lost two months while they were searching for my placement. But I CAN DO IT! I will GET THAT DEGREE AND GRADUATE! I am planning to stay at Gentex while I finish and until I find another career path that I will enjoy. I love Gentex and am so grateful for the friends I've made there and all they've done for me since I closed my daycare. I did some job searching already for different positions that would fit my BAES degree. I found positions with corporate training, educational programs in hospitals, children/family services, educational director for museums, camps, parks, zoos, director in early childhood programs, writing/editing curriculum...and if I want to be in the schools, there are a lot of non-certified jobs I can do. I found LOADS of jobs/career paths that this other degree would fit and it really excites me that I have so many more options!</div>
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This past week was awful.</div>
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The entire time I prayed...I prayed that the RIGHT doors would OPEN and the WRONG doors would CLOSE.</div>
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Every placement for student teaching ended up closing. And the BAES program which I wasn't supposed to be allowed to switch into now...OPENED!</div>
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I have such peace in my heart now.</div>
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God speaks to us in different ways. For me, I know when God speaks and answers by the peace I feel in my heart. For all those months I was experiencing anxiety, panic attacks and doubt, I knew things weren't right. There were times I was crying out to God saying, "Where are you Lord? What do I do? I need help and answers!" He always placed the right people in my path, verses to cling to, sermons to listen to, and songs to hear. I am so grateful to the Lord for always being with me. He never leaves us or forsakes us.</div>
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I am also so grateful for the amazing university I go to and the staff who have helped and supported me in my academic journey. They are the most supportive people and truly want to see students succeed. I am so excited about graduation and we're even thinking about making the trip to the ceremony! We shall see!<br />
Thanks so much to everyone who has supported and prayed for me thus far!<br />
Love you all!</div>
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Signing off for now!</div>
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#WGU #nightowl </div>
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Melody</div>
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Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-3777782602141087612018-01-28T15:34:00.001-08:002018-01-28T15:34:01.744-08:002017 Wrapped Up In One Post...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>I did it again.</b></div>
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<b>I'm one of "those' bloggers.</b></div>
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<b>The ones who walk away from their blogs and leave them hanging without any explanation.</b></div>
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<b>I abandoned "Melody's Muse" for an entire year.</b></div>
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<b>How did that happen?!?!</b></div>
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<b>Well...I at least owe the year of 2017 one post.</b></div>
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<b>So here goes...</b></div>
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<b>It was a good year.</b></div>
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<b>A busy year.</b></div>
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<b>In March I attended our church's ladies conference "She Is Brave."</b></div>
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<b>It was awesome.</b></div>
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<b>I donated a gift basket of cookies for a door prize.</b></div>
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<b>Amazingly enough, the gal who won the basket was from another church and we were able to become friends!</b></div>
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<b>Love how God works!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbvv06do4UOmlq2v8DTyzTktQ272FBbn5rOLaR74IY4tRVbn0H3_UkmknLv1yFZjBHaKuYpxvmdkY_TL9EHVtJyil92IQTHfUzeOSLOndOw8kciAMxIPdbLO1h8M1BEkerM7uCaX6SRC5/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbvv06do4UOmlq2v8DTyzTktQ272FBbn5rOLaR74IY4tRVbn0H3_UkmknLv1yFZjBHaKuYpxvmdkY_TL9EHVtJyil92IQTHfUzeOSLOndOw8kciAMxIPdbLO1h8M1BEkerM7uCaX6SRC5/s320/15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>In May, we went to Tulip Time as usual.</b></div>
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<b>Gotta go downtown to see the gorgeous tulips, Dutch Dancers, and get some amazing greasy fair food!</b></div>
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<b>Mom, Jess, and I always manage to squeeze in a Girls Day Out a couple times a year.</b></div>
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<b>We LOVE our thrift stores!</b></div>
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<b>We always stop for lunch and coffee or a smoothie too.</b></div>
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<b>BTW...I think it's time for another...hmmm...right girls?</b></div>
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<b>This year, I was so privileged and honored to teach "Projects With A Purpose" at our Vacation Bible School.</b></div>
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<b>It was a really fun time that I enjoyed so much.</b></div>
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<b>A lot of kids!</b></div>
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<b>I was nervous, but it was so much fun.</b></div>
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<b>We didn't finish our projects...and I felt really bad about that.</b></div>
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<b>But I think the kiddos had a great time regardless.</b></div>
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<b>In July, we made our annual trip to Mackinac Island.</b></div>
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<b>"Don't you ever get tired of going to the same spot for vacation?" people always ask.</b></div>
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<b>NEVER!</b></div>
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<b>Mackinac is in our heart.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RI33r45WwueDTLDGAZ8rVFgGrvdBoLVuFvx_ownJ9Zl9KFCRLObbnrGx0AWevHdk32HrmPClN9Ay0lZDR7OVoozTZkwWMyvDpnYCzE0IKxICEKn539JkdCgQz0-xgWVbS-denRG76Tb4/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RI33r45WwueDTLDGAZ8rVFgGrvdBoLVuFvx_ownJ9Zl9KFCRLObbnrGx0AWevHdk32HrmPClN9Ay0lZDR7OVoozTZkwWMyvDpnYCzE0IKxICEKn539JkdCgQz0-xgWVbS-denRG76Tb4/s320/8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>It's a part of us.</b></div>
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<b>I would be so sad if we weren't able to go each year.</b></div>
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<b>I love our yearly trips!</b></div>
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<b>We have the best time.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVIUZv5C-wOLvtsFPVMaVntpjL4f4KD1tFwYxK2xM3wPNpHVQJ7W32I7tgwXf2UX8MI6MBDLaZyfV8m3Iqe1NdAGnJVqqnVqZmqfkmwhf5nnIfw8pddgKJn2ylpjW8o0y9AIMdeX0gn2N/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVIUZv5C-wOLvtsFPVMaVntpjL4f4KD1tFwYxK2xM3wPNpHVQJ7W32I7tgwXf2UX8MI6MBDLaZyfV8m3Iqe1NdAGnJVqqnVqZmqfkmwhf5nnIfw8pddgKJn2ylpjW8o0y9AIMdeX0gn2N/s320/7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Toward the end of summer, we made a trip to Chicago with the boys.</b></div>
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<b>We took the train from Michigan City and headed down.</b></div>
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<b>It was a great time.</b></div>
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<b>We did some shopping, and lots of eating, and even more walking.</b></div>
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<b>It was great.</b></div>
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<b>In September, my dad celebrated his 70th birthday!</b></div>
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<b>How did that happen?</b></div>
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<b>He's still a spring chicken!</b></div>
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<b>We love having mom and dad closer to us in Grand Haven now.</b></div>
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<b>We get to see them a lot more.</b></div>
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<b>It's great.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_z-xVPtNlxGwdTji6Jw2Jl7i6igc5WxW7xdBB8WeTOq36Gycw9wS30hWMVu_i0fp_F86YRFzhoj0HJKFaveTbLand9k1OeLW0vZ7rYojYJVUEOOnkKGRojQBTIXZ15DmU1JlTCusNGFSI/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_z-xVPtNlxGwdTji6Jw2Jl7i6igc5WxW7xdBB8WeTOq36Gycw9wS30hWMVu_i0fp_F86YRFzhoj0HJKFaveTbLand9k1OeLW0vZ7rYojYJVUEOOnkKGRojQBTIXZ15DmU1JlTCusNGFSI/s320/9.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Jam and I made one more trip back to Mackinac in the fall.</b></div>
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<b>Just the two of us.</b></div>
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<b>It was fun.</b></div>
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<b>The trees were gorgeous.</b></div>
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<b>The colors were so vibrant.</b></div>
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<b>Just amazing.</b></div>
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<b>This is my friend Veronica and her daughter.</b></div>
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<b>This fall I did my first cookie decorating lesson at her house.</b></div>
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<b>We had a great time together.</b></div>
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<b>Did you know you can still make sugar cookie (roll-outs) without a rolling pin?</b></div>
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<b>DON'T ASK.</b></div>
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<b>But you can, hehehe!</b></div>
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<b>In October, we participated in our church's trunk-or-treat.</b></div>
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<b>It was a storybook theme.</b></div>
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<b>We did Dr. Seuss' Cat In The Hat.</b></div>
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<b>We had a great time.</b></div>
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<b>Soooooo many kids!</b></div>
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<b>In December I enjoyed helping out decorate the church for Christmas.</b></div>
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<b>I have so loved getting more involved at our church the last couple years.</b></div>
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<b>It's the best.</b></div>
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<b>December brought our annual ladies Christmas tea..</b></div>
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<b>What a great event.</b></div>
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<b>It's always so beautiful.</b></div>
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<b>This was my second year hosting a table.</b></div>
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<b>It was a lot of fun.</b></div>
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<b>We celebrated Christmas this year at mom and dad's new place for the first time.</b></div>
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<b>We had a great time with loads of food, crazy games, and gifts.</b></div>
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<b>From our family to yours, we hope 2018 is full of health and happiness!</b></div>
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<b>God bless!</b></div>
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<br />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-24098663618410413482016-09-05T18:56:00.000-07:002016-09-05T19:04:03.482-07:00Summer In Review...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBzUf1jnsFaIu_HEqnH2uBGp-6djY0Qw2njjavd-mNMyHcuxA234g2B4sS8d49dIfk7CS3HHKPwJ6yLKwlNAtvY20HlRPHbjbr5PCnF3-Olnevn7z8Ilyw3xJdZPBjSXZi2EtuaTOu5Qm/s1600/sum2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBzUf1jnsFaIu_HEqnH2uBGp-6djY0Qw2njjavd-mNMyHcuxA234g2B4sS8d49dIfk7CS3HHKPwJ6yLKwlNAtvY20HlRPHbjbr5PCnF3-Olnevn7z8Ilyw3xJdZPBjSXZi2EtuaTOu5Qm/s320/sum2.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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<b>P.A.T.H.E.T.I.C.</b></div>
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<b>Yes. You have every right to call me a pathetic blogger.</b></div>
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<b>I got to looking and I have only posted two...TWO...posts for 2016!!!</b></div>
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<b>That's right!</b></div>
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<b>But...I'm making each post "combo" posts...catching you up, months at a time.</b></div>
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<b>Forgive me?</b></div>
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<b>Good.</b></div>
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<b>Let's start with the first picture!</b></div>
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<b>In June, we celebrated Evan's birthday.</b></div>
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<b>Two decades.</b></div>
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<b>How in the world did that happen?</b></div>
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<b>He is such a blessing.</b></div>
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<b>He's a junior in college now.</b></div>
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<b>Holds down a job.</b></div>
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<b>Bought a car.</b></div>
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<b>Proud much?</b></div>
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<b>Yeah...just a little. ;)</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sNnbJTtBAgFP2pWUy-ZAWenMaPpkywLmwgoXbD14o3YSMX9mzifZV7uy0VKsQQIELUBCD4DihubVn3vT5LXXIqfUifJkH8CG3MolSDULiNtMayDLy1H_51yr6dhgU3VPSQCmFDEk3qrw/s1600/sum12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sNnbJTtBAgFP2pWUy-ZAWenMaPpkywLmwgoXbD14o3YSMX9mzifZV7uy0VKsQQIELUBCD4DihubVn3vT5LXXIqfUifJkH8CG3MolSDULiNtMayDLy1H_51yr6dhgU3VPSQCmFDEk3qrw/s320/sum12.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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<b>Not sure if I shared this one.</b></div>
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<b>But I made a fairy garden!</b></div>
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<b>I love it!</b></div>
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<b>And it was so much fun to create, I want to make more!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDbXJ-2THtIwLJ4-Aeh0P_MwJ7DtOBBFzmWvxr_tIcj-aHh4apTz1vPZ72Qwx53NyAXzm02JMj_U9qXhYfMXs9tCTEeiTLH3IiGNpH7rmJphwAXN2yPRCvXFvCOR1PDI9XTsudM92U7pc/s1600/sum4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDbXJ-2THtIwLJ4-Aeh0P_MwJ7DtOBBFzmWvxr_tIcj-aHh4apTz1vPZ72Qwx53NyAXzm02JMj_U9qXhYfMXs9tCTEeiTLH3IiGNpH7rmJphwAXN2yPRCvXFvCOR1PDI9XTsudM92U7pc/s320/sum4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>We also went to hubby's company picnic held at the fairgrounds.</b></div>
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<b>We had a great time.</b></div>
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<b>They had a catered picnic with bbq pulled pork, chicken, hotdogs, cole slaw, chips, melon, corn on the cob, cookies, and pop.</b></div>
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<b>We played bingo for prizes (didn't win)...it was a lot of fun.</b></div>
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<b>They gave us fair dollars for yummy fair food!</b></div>
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<b>We're not much for rides...</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFXKsnBXLRamutR60889QIy2gMwaTlOm8_S3oc5t-xJwOXeLARhAprcmWaS59qwaytliimq7YvpzFoA0i6BEPrv01sqmwihZxmom5ngPGrCGEb9n1ReXUu-EmAbZbwtyLi2Xxvi_35L119/s1600/sum9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFXKsnBXLRamutR60889QIy2gMwaTlOm8_S3oc5t-xJwOXeLARhAprcmWaS59qwaytliimq7YvpzFoA0i6BEPrv01sqmwihZxmom5ngPGrCGEb9n1ReXUu-EmAbZbwtyLi2Xxvi_35L119/s320/sum9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>But we had a blast looking at all of the animals...</b></div>
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<b>Cows, horses, donkeys, pigs, bunnies, chickens, roosters, turtles, goats, sheep, camel.</b></div>
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<b>It was a hoot.</b></div>
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<b>Then there was the photo booth, LOL!</b></div>
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<b>We could NOT get it right, haha!</b></div>
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<b>We barely fit in and none of us were looking at the camera at the same time.</b></div>
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<b>It was hilarious.</b></div>
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<b>The boys and I went to Coast Guard Fest in Grand Haven with my sis and niece.</b></div>
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<b>My nephew is in a bucket drum band and is amazing!</b></div>
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<b>They performed each night.</b></div>
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<b>In August, the four of us went back to Mackinac Island.</b></div>
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<b>We spent one night in Mackinaw City and toured the retired Icebreaker Mackinaw, which is something we'd never done.</b></div>
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<b>It was very interesting...</b></div>
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<b>...and a lot of fun!</b></div>
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<b>It rained that afternoon and evening...so the boys didn't get their beach time in.</b></div>
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<b>So they settled for the indoor pool!</b></div>
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<b>Fun!</b><br />
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<b>Next day, we headed for the island...</b><br />
<b>Me and the hubs at the Grand phone booth!</b><br />
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<b>Relaxing after a long day of hiking...</b></div>
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<b>We spent one day on the island biking.</b></div>
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<b>We took the 8 mile perimeter.</b></div>
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<b>Stopped at British Landing for fried pickles at the Cannon Ball.</b></div>
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<b>We had some drizzle on one day on the island, but we don't let it stop us!</b></div>
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<b>We grab our umbrellas and keep going!</b></div>
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<b>As always, the flowers were amazing.</b></div>
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<b>Evan has always wanted to kayak.</b></div>
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<b>So he and Nate took a one hour tour with Great Turtle tours.</b></div>
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<b>They had a blast.</b></div>
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<b>I was too chicken.</b></div>
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<b>But after I saw some 8 year olds doing it alone (with the guide)...I decided I better get my booty out there next time!</b></div>
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<div align="center">
<b>And lastly, we celebrated Nate's 16th birthday.</b></div>
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<b>My sweet boy is a sophomore this year!</b></div>
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<b>He's in no hurry to drive and tells me he's going to live in New York City so he can just take a taxi everywhere, LOL!</b></div>
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<b>Love that boy!</b></div>
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<b>Well today is Labor Day...which means it's Back To School for all Michigan kids tomorrow!</b></div>
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<b>I hope you all had an amazing summer!</b></div>
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<b>TTFN!</b></div>
Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-35479368059736920352016-07-23T19:02:00.000-07:002016-07-23T19:04:07.129-07:00Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island...July 2016<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BEZ0lQk_xZdL0NxUeQEe7ohw1FxZGoAhM2oYSY7hhJrC8qxWS2BkhhJygX3x_LkTKW9o_HNo137Yt3le8jKhIyAHp1Ia9UTYBgKSIDDeOFw4nlewOf3tIaVJkT0ebDYoYxLqp15rQ44b/s1600/mac1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BEZ0lQk_xZdL0NxUeQEe7ohw1FxZGoAhM2oYSY7hhJrC8qxWS2BkhhJygX3x_LkTKW9o_HNo137Yt3le8jKhIyAHp1Ia9UTYBgKSIDDeOFw4nlewOf3tIaVJkT0ebDYoYxLqp15rQ44b/s320/mac1.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys humored me with a photo by the bear at the Crossings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Last year, for the first time in a LONG time, we didn't go to Mackinac Island over July 4th.</b></div>
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<b>We missed it so much!</b></div>
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<b>So we knew we had to go back this 4th!</b></div>
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<b>We spent our first night of our vacation in Mackinaw City.</b></div>
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<b>On day 1, we spent a little time shopping at the Crossings and along Main St.</b></div>
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<b>Then we spent a little time at the beach.</b></div>
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<b>The boys love going out into the lake and playing in the waves.</b></div>
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<b>I enjoy just sitting in a lounge chair catching a few rays.</b></div>
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<b>I did pretty good and only managed a few little streaks of sunburn where I missed applying my SPF, haha.</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>You have to stop at Mickey's for ice cream while in the City.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Only $3.00 for a HUGE "single" dip, which is really TWO HUGE scoops of two different flavors on an enormous waffle cone!</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Next day, we woke up and caught an early ferry to the Island.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We stayed at the Main Street Inn.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>It's lovely.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Clean, friendly, and many amenities!</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We always enjoy the morning coffee and cucumber water in the hallway.</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Our room was spacious, clean, and comfortable.</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And each night, you get turn-down service with a fudge treat from Joann's!</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Another favorite of ours, on a hot day, is a stop at Lucky Bean for smoothies.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Personally I like either the mango or the lemonade smoothie.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5j7emRekuTEB61XAILjv-awYZDzi60KR9IPjinMRDbw5Dxi8mSbt36eR3Q7rEW_beCegQy2nanD4GPaqVUd4u8g4y6UZSqEFSLFsHWBPKqnhgoS_CV8jN-v9y9hauRNIlXq8ek1c_PSbI/s1600/mac9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5j7emRekuTEB61XAILjv-awYZDzi60KR9IPjinMRDbw5Dxi8mSbt36eR3Q7rEW_beCegQy2nanD4GPaqVUd4u8g4y6UZSqEFSLFsHWBPKqnhgoS_CV8jN-v9y9hauRNIlXq8ek1c_PSbI/s320/mac9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jam and Nate on the Arch Rock staircase.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We hiked all over.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And made stops at all of our favorite places, like Arch Rock...</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And Sugar Loaf...</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And Ft. Holmes...</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTy7nG0hkl38W6RmsB_Tcp2oXJgKLgssqt_Af1lrf_zR5OKtSbt5QthTXv-GcO9vgm3Z-EVUULS5L09R3WaH6FBUz43uWomO7IWS1zTgv8CgptHECXkjd6714Q3-QuK2WlXEw-7GQJRD5/s1600/mac12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTy7nG0hkl38W6RmsB_Tcp2oXJgKLgssqt_Af1lrf_zR5OKtSbt5QthTXv-GcO9vgm3Z-EVUULS5L09R3WaH6FBUz43uWomO7IWS1zTgv8CgptHECXkjd6714Q3-QuK2WlXEw-7GQJRD5/s320/mac12.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My niece Raegan and I at Arch Rock.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>On Monday, my sister and her family came up for a few days!</b></div>
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<b>My sissy and I at Arch Rock.</b></div>
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<b>We had dinner together on the 4th at The Pink Pony.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-T8ggspJE95ab24aztSeVt6mW6AmiEwQc6-lxwGHxoG2ciBycq1qAC6YDcjXp4RoERGSObe3zR0U4TxXU6M3wASf0l9PeJwYDmOYzuAg9qc973W5PJb5_oVzuh8PO39ti_GxkHBcZf5H/s1600/mac15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-T8ggspJE95ab24aztSeVt6mW6AmiEwQc6-lxwGHxoG2ciBycq1qAC6YDcjXp4RoERGSObe3zR0U4TxXU6M3wASf0l9PeJwYDmOYzuAg9qc973W5PJb5_oVzuh8PO39ti_GxkHBcZf5H/s320/mac15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>We took our favorite Fireworks Cruise aboard Shepler's Ferry.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I always pack glow bracelets and necklaces for us, haha!</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>My happy little fam aboard the boat!</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>They take you under the Mighty Mac bridge.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>It's a fun experience before the fireworks begin.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku9CPyS761_pzDn9_mSGPsafAPu833SBRPuTTHvWaGXmmXEXP8PlmQRMfxx_2ywda-A9iT2nLY3sJ3rTAmS6KX7IqciPMk1hlDBB5p6LllBa6x1fod9xSLBFPGgexj0oZxxKTvKqc8gkO/s1600/mac18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku9CPyS761_pzDn9_mSGPsafAPu833SBRPuTTHvWaGXmmXEXP8PlmQRMfxx_2ywda-A9iT2nLY3sJ3rTAmS6KX7IqciPMk1hlDBB5p6LllBa6x1fod9xSLBFPGgexj0oZxxKTvKqc8gkO/s320/mac18.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raegan, Me, and Jess...</td></tr>
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<b>Another night, we all played golf together!</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Golfing...</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-a2sSJ8zO4OKVKRsv3W9_Ic_xO2jTxgjlCOTg0ZRSqWzdjFse_R6eYtAyBNy7F2vy-AjyLfWXW7pBZ_39TZSmuddaO8pnyzdpAdsaKXS9ZXlMt41c2OnR1mlTWmbESpYLBjExeTOWlO5I/s1600/mac20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-a2sSJ8zO4OKVKRsv3W9_Ic_xO2jTxgjlCOTg0ZRSqWzdjFse_R6eYtAyBNy7F2vy-AjyLfWXW7pBZ_39TZSmuddaO8pnyzdpAdsaKXS9ZXlMt41c2OnR1mlTWmbESpYLBjExeTOWlO5I/s320/mac20.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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<b>We all stacked some rocks near the lake...that was fun.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURJJ7jier09RPI7k37B9E3KgOxeY8QZsvKFLm9ewyHUblGGuLP9XkCRZmGrroNQNFvdhyphenhyphen5m1-pZbZwO7TktxdxM2NIb684i9jAvvsoxBopNEO8yVirZ7juR02e2yrL9diqhEU-fU6Hic_/s1600/mac21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURJJ7jier09RPI7k37B9E3KgOxeY8QZsvKFLm9ewyHUblGGuLP9XkCRZmGrroNQNFvdhyphenhyphen5m1-pZbZwO7TktxdxM2NIb684i9jAvvsoxBopNEO8yVirZ7juR02e2yrL9diqhEU-fU6Hic_/s320/mac21.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<b>And we had a family game night.</b></div>
<div align="center">
<b>What a riot!</b></div>
<div align="center">
<b>We had a great time with perfect weather.</b></div>
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<b>Can't wait to go back!</b></div>
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<b>What has your family been doing this summer?</b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-38613801091508529872016-04-10T16:19:00.001-07:002016-04-10T16:22:10.845-07:00The good, the bad, and the UGLY...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5RNYwfHagERly0tmt0tThuFC-nQwZurII2OIO9anCX5trn5p4gmZXuW2aEbPCr5tVIvedIXikNFcSm1but0MCe56RzBnSZq_OEiSndUEIHU9V-2rOAPt2MzlGf5nki2e8UH4CnMePDdJ7/s1600/12919854_10153704447337087_939260597812399294_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5RNYwfHagERly0tmt0tThuFC-nQwZurII2OIO9anCX5trn5p4gmZXuW2aEbPCr5tVIvedIXikNFcSm1but0MCe56RzBnSZq_OEiSndUEIHU9V-2rOAPt2MzlGf5nki2e8UH4CnMePDdJ7/s320/12919854_10153704447337087_939260597812399294_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>First of all, has it really been FOUR MONTHS since I posted?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>My youngest son reminded me how I HATE when bloggers I follow just "disappear" and quit blogging with no explanation. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Well...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>GUILTY!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Anywho...I figured I better share something for the few who follow.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>A week ago Thursday, I was on my way to work at 5:40 a.m. and I was involved in an accident. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I was traveling in my lane, and a SEMI who was in the left turn lane, decided he no longer wanted to be in the left turn lane, and he swerved back into my lane.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Yep, it's not everyday you can say you were hit by a semi.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But it happened to me.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>My BRAND NEW car.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>He tore the entire rear bumper off and there is a bunch of damage underneath as well they're telling us.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Thankfully, I walked away unharmed and the car is still drivable.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>It goes in to be fixed on Wednesday.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I got a little shaken up later thinking of what could have been.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I mean...it was a SEMI.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And not JUST a semi...a TANKER...full of fuel or chemicals or who knows what.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>God definitely had His hand on me that day.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2-WcVhEMaZbNzaceDdE54YZBDNQA0VDD0_RIise0OXgd9cXdVN-pyhogtKeWNOL27K0rIedK6YOkCL3xNubhtHWOxsjhHzaLPFN3ntGiknwqnF7oQThywCkjVOvpEeXPTJGR0v-OjF_p/s1600/12472477_10153676831102087_5359305776393243915_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2-WcVhEMaZbNzaceDdE54YZBDNQA0VDD0_RIise0OXgd9cXdVN-pyhogtKeWNOL27K0rIedK6YOkCL3xNubhtHWOxsjhHzaLPFN3ntGiknwqnF7oQThywCkjVOvpEeXPTJGR0v-OjF_p/s320/12472477_10153676831102087_5359305776393243915_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>On a happier note...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I won a sweet giveaway from Flirty Aprons this past month!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Four beautiful aprons of my choice and some chocolate bunnies!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What a wonderful Easter surprise!</b></div>
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<b>I'm still plugging away at school.</b></div>
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<b>Just about to start term 5 (of 8).</b></div>
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<b>I'm totally done with all of my gen. ed. and working on all of my (elementary) education classes now.</b></div>
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<b>It's becoming more real now!</b></div>
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<b>I am exhausted most days...but one day it will be worth it!</b></div>
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<b>So, what's new with you?</b></div>
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<b>Hopefully my next post won't take another four months, haha!</b></div>
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<b>Take care and TTFN!</b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-25996710102532306832015-12-31T12:45:00.001-08:002015-12-31T13:29:04.260-08:002015 In Review...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOdnOjusC1b_4gcvShB6FdTLnIXqCC3oQ0GKoJoUs5ey6a13MIkn-hij0q3RS9OzO38EIEUX_ZA-ju8hZSth71o1dx5nnc78ApGlsMfyTpp7cYOhQ7ZiXpz1vz1JVl74SiqlJSYcZk5Ea/s1600/janthroughmy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOdnOjusC1b_4gcvShB6FdTLnIXqCC3oQ0GKoJoUs5ey6a13MIkn-hij0q3RS9OzO38EIEUX_ZA-ju8hZSth71o1dx5nnc78ApGlsMfyTpp7cYOhQ7ZiXpz1vz1JVl74SiqlJSYcZk5Ea/s320/janthroughmy.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>2015 has come to a close.</b></div>
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<b>I really can't believe it's over!</b></div>
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<b>Our family is truly blessed.</b></div>
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<b>I am halfway through my fourth term at WGU and am planning to graduate either in the winter of 2017 or spring of 2018.</b></div>
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<b>Evan has finished his third semester at GVSU.</b></div>
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<b>Nate is halfway through his freshman year in high school.</b></div>
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<b>We are all buzzing along!</b></div>
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<b>My baking business has slowed down a bit (by choice). I am still taking limited orders, but with working full time outside of the home (oh, that's another story!) and going to school full time, it just doesn't leave the time for a lot of orders. In January of 2015 we rang in the new year quietly. I celebrated another birthday in February. Nate had band concerts in March. The winter came and went without much new. In April, I attended a cookie baking conference where we learned loads about cookie decorating and even making cake pops. It was great to meet all of the ladies I knew from our baking groups online in person. There were ladies from Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Canada. May brought Tulip Time once again. Nate marched with the band in the parade and also in the Memorial Day parade.</b></div>
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<b>In June we went to Mackinac Island for a family vacation. It was a lovely time.</b></div>
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<b>July Fourth we stayed home this year due to Jamie's new job. Oh yeah...he has a new job! He has really been blessed by the position he was offered and we were excited about that. In August, we took another trip to the Island. This time we went with my parents. It was a lovely time. August also brought about some challenges in our lives. Although I have always heard and read a lot about spiritual warfare, I never knew the reality of it until this past year. I never knew that the enemy could use people for such evil and wickedness to attack others. We went through a real attack this past year. I went through a period of anger, sadness, depression...and overall desperation, not eating or sleeping much. Surrounded in prayer by our friends and family, we came through victoriously. God was with us the whole time. I will never fully understand why we had to endure such awfulness, but I have to believe that God has a plan in everything. My challenge now is forgiveness. What we went through was so awful...I know God wants me to forgive...but it's hard...and I'd appreciate your prayers. It will take time...a lot of time...</b></div>
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<b>August through October were tough...but God got us through.</b></div>
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<b>On a happy note!</b></div>
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<b>By October, I had been doing a lot of thinking...and decided it was time for change.</b></div>
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<b>I decided to look for a new job.</b></div>
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<b>Ever just KNOW that something is a "God-Thing"???</b></div>
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<b>I applied online at a local company.</b></div>
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<b>I was called the next day for an interview.</b></div>
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<b>That day they asked me to come in for testing.</b></div>
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<b>At the end of testing, I was told I was hired!</b></div>
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<b>Originally, I was told that the way things worked was that I'd be hired in as a "temp" for three months and I'd have to work third shift.</b></div>
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<b>I got a phone call the next day with an offer for a "direct hire" with the company on FIRST SHIFT!</b></div>
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<b>Was that God or what?</b></div>
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<b>It just doesn't happen like that people kept telling me!</b></div>
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<b>Although I was hired in directly, for me, it's just a temporary job...two years max...until I finish my degree. I will work here until I start my student teaching.</b></div>
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<b>Pretty cool!</b></div>
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<b>October was a pretty blessed month!</b></div>
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<b>November we spent Thanksgiving evening with my family playing games and having desserts. It was a great day.</b></div>
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<b>December brings us to the end of the year...we had a lovely Christmas with extended family and also the four of us.</b></div>
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<b>Tonight we close out 2015...</b></div>
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<b>I am looking forward to 2016!</b></div>
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<b>I do not make resolutions.</b></div>
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<b>I tend to feel like a failure when I don't keep them, haha.</b></div>
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<b>I just wake up each day and give God my best for that day...or at least I try! ;)</b></div>
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<b>Wishing you and yours a very safe, healthy, and happy 2016!!!</b></div>
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<b>TTFN...</b></div>
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<b>Melody</b></div>
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Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-91194316667083425012015-11-11T17:28:00.000-08:002015-11-11T17:32:39.006-08:00Mackinac Island Trip #2...(long time, no post!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLUcOnq3DRWIalnnFvjdaH0UoZhpSWew0CQPeCVtwQEpBe6c22wuxDQMJcu1FEZg46JS2vco9F0Tq8QffYVUTULvfH3YzesgS66uxkZvb8-zTtgZKEffxbb03vQCOUoU2BorBHWHQtzcK/s1600/mack1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLUcOnq3DRWIalnnFvjdaH0UoZhpSWew0CQPeCVtwQEpBe6c22wuxDQMJcu1FEZg46JS2vco9F0Tq8QffYVUTULvfH3YzesgS66uxkZvb8-zTtgZKEffxbb03vQCOUoU2BorBHWHQtzcK/s320/mack1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>I know, I know.</b></div>
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<b>I've become one of those bloggers who I always complain about...</b></div>
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<b>They just disappear with no explanation.</b></div>
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<b>I went on a little hiatus...from blogging, Facebook, all social media...pretty much...LIFE.</b></div>
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<b>In August, we went on trip #2 to Mackinac Island with my parents as a little "end of summer celebration"...however, while there, we received a phone call that pretty much turned our life upside down for 3 months. After 3 months of pure h---...I am praising God because...</b></div>
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<b>IT. IS. OVER. </b></div>
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<b>Hallelujah!</b></div>
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<b>But anyway...back to our trip!</b></div>
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<b>Above is a picture I took on the way up.</b></div>
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<b>I always try to get a picture of this tree and somehow miss it.</b></div>
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<b>We refer to it as "Shoe Tree".</b></div>
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<b>As you can see, there are a million shoes that people have randomly thrown up on it, LOL!</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRjMU8q2JhHJl9WJnTS6I2_TGyxtlkAHlNVpgHrMuE1w0u_PAJXZ5Hj9H9GQjUFQ672f3DYeUivBBa6Ne2n09WJawAx5MDRwoMfFRu3QRSkxpoaLxKRmrv83dBiZ89cE4FcFRPugJncAl/s1600/mack51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRjMU8q2JhHJl9WJnTS6I2_TGyxtlkAHlNVpgHrMuE1w0u_PAJXZ5Hj9H9GQjUFQ672f3DYeUivBBa6Ne2n09WJawAx5MDRwoMfFRu3QRSkxpoaLxKRmrv83dBiZ89cE4FcFRPugJncAl/s320/mack51.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me and mom in Mackinac City...and a few views of the Mackinac Bridge...</td></tr>
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<b>We were so blessed and excited that my parents came with us for the week! </b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>I don't usually buy souvenirs...but I found this adorable ring-watch at a cute little store for $1.00! How could I pass it up? Ha! </b></div>
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<b>I decided that next spring/summer, I'm going to build a Fairy Garden.</b></div>
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<b>I think I'm going with a "Pure Michigan" theme.</b></div>
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<b>So I started it off with purchasing a little "turtle" (Mackinac Island) made of shells.</b></div>
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<b>This year was the first year we ever visited the Peace Garden on the Island.</b></div>
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<b>It is really beautiful!</b></div>
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<b>We celebrated my Nate's b-day while there!</b></div>
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<b>Happy 15th Natee!</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DGfCrcQdZC2cGw5IgEnlbVQ6EdicDQJc38nrfLTGtiAC-XY6dop8N_KiqQ-23QbhkgfbMx1iSPrFQJJXlmyHfxp11n8H8uolo35FqkiZ7EuPQNx_ztrAplXBxXu9NWvgIx0LFnLaZ__u/s1600/mack56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DGfCrcQdZC2cGw5IgEnlbVQ6EdicDQJc38nrfLTGtiAC-XY6dop8N_KiqQ-23QbhkgfbMx1iSPrFQJJXlmyHfxp11n8H8uolo35FqkiZ7EuPQNx_ztrAplXBxXu9NWvgIx0LFnLaZ__u/s320/mack56.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we went to the "1852 Grill Room" for dinner for Nate's b-day...fancy!</td></tr>
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<b>Playing cards one evening...</b></div>
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<b>Up at Surrey Hill...</b></div>
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<b>The flowers were AMAZING this year!!!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQI2Nx8x_cgSjczCFP-1bfXye0TVQBxN75mAC3hwlXs0VJiwxWN1DRE2mx7qA69P0es5xbQuvx5HPPZP_x5qE4YyLbi6nd_UkTG9cDtCl5-GpYKKMej2egMMnNvlyawGto8gqh2B0La89/s1600/mack50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQI2Nx8x_cgSjczCFP-1bfXye0TVQBxN75mAC3hwlXs0VJiwxWN1DRE2mx7qA69P0es5xbQuvx5HPPZP_x5qE4YyLbi6nd_UkTG9cDtCl5-GpYKKMej2egMMnNvlyawGto8gqh2B0La89/s320/mack50.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>We never have "plans" when on the Island. We just start out each day and wander.</b></div>
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<b>We love hiking through the forest.</b></div>
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<b>The trees and greenery are amazing.</b></div>
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<b>The newly constructed Ft. Holmes is awesome!</b></div>
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<b>We had so much fun with mom and dad.</b></div>
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<b>And with the stress of the phone call we received early on in the trip...their prayers, support, and encouragement really helped us maintain "some" sense of fun on the trip despite the news.</b></div>
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<b>If you've never been to the Grand Hotel Horse Museum, you simply must go. It's actually free too! It has so many old fashioned carriages to look at.</b></div>
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<b>I can't believe it's already November and it took me this long to get an August post out, LOL!</b></div>
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<b>I'll try to get some more Sept/Oct updates out soon as well!</b></div>
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<b>Hope you are having a blessed Autumn!</b></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-39384523766898532302015-08-16T20:30:00.003-07:002015-08-16T20:38:31.901-07:00July And August...Family, Feasts, the Fourth, and Frivolous (stuff)...<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/AVvXsEh0rbIzSaN7dLaD0s1or9Qm3equl-FCZEFq174LijgDI2RVaiPel02HNZNQYwW3xAfHzEfCZjW_CSWxsfsZ612pTTxPxq9DXtZmtXhyOF56XxcBwmYUacr-6Dpzc1zkjA_9QwsSFCwZjygM/s1600/11825678_10153062438043201_8379911655672663518_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rbIzSaN7dLaD0s1or9Qm3equl-FCZEFq174LijgDI2RVaiPel02HNZNQYwW3xAfHzEfCZjW_CSWxsfsZ612pTTxPxq9DXtZmtXhyOF56XxcBwmYUacr-6Dpzc1zkjA_9QwsSFCwZjygM/s320/11825678_10153062438043201_8379911655672663518_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom, cousin Tiffany, and me.</td></tr>
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<b>I can't believe I didn't write one post during the month of July. That can only mean one thing...either I'm TOO OVERLY busy...or...NOTHING AT ALL is happening.</b></div>
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<b>I think it is the first. Too much going on.</b></div>
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<b>I will warn you...these events are COMPLETELY out of order because I posted the pictures backwards, LOL!</b></div>
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<b>Last weekend, my cousin Tiffany and her family came up to Michigan from Illinois to visit. On Saturday my sis invite my family and my parents up for a cookout so we could all visit and catch up. </b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8rSriEntLMfu9BO9UuEjn1VWhzcK6E_nyQDHRcjpa3l9HNWxn9Fl5yyDhKu6RexHDdNoNL076ZGnzWnD8TH8-tEX0Hzk3S4rXoZ1FESBQkykEjUcYZ4dIhDaf8rP20uhEBSWQL0DxIcJ/s1600/11231849_10153062438008201_1979118585512795830_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8rSriEntLMfu9BO9UuEjn1VWhzcK6E_nyQDHRcjpa3l9HNWxn9Fl5yyDhKu6RexHDdNoNL076ZGnzWnD8TH8-tEX0Hzk3S4rXoZ1FESBQkykEjUcYZ4dIhDaf8rP20uhEBSWQL0DxIcJ/s320/11231849_10153062438008201_1979118585512795830_n.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logan, Raegan, and Ben</td></tr>
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<b>We had a fabulous time. We had burgers and dogs, fresh veggies, watermelon, chips, and dip. We all chatted and the kids played and then we took them down to the subdivision's pool later for a dip.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH68YiFrgrijCrktadEa11GYOQSS4ERIk6MPR55wP64PKJnhM2R669JkdBlkkUvpbjsLIVj1M1G9L6WNeh0zEqpVqul7dva3M_reIjCO_Xm0gx0Iazdoz0FwgGKKVpZgG_FME1secLJoor/s1600/11885201_10153062438218201_4257027404553532632_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH68YiFrgrijCrktadEa11GYOQSS4ERIk6MPR55wP64PKJnhM2R669JkdBlkkUvpbjsLIVj1M1G9L6WNeh0zEqpVqul7dva3M_reIjCO_Xm0gx0Iazdoz0FwgGKKVpZgG_FME1secLJoor/s320/11885201_10153062438218201_4257027404553532632_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Jess.</td></tr>
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<b>Sisters...friends.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_GO-XLPt6ul1XKEmy8F_qG8HiZxMbHyAGiE2AkVJmQjcZMcuFTWzMz3C1pripbKJy32_zgwKsMFnFSjOVv6MIl5v1CysU7KrX1Ga7H8St3L74AVk9Rh0_z5Tsyyt46MaxfN0gRO4gOCs/s1600/11889548_10153062437993201_7433274509824555591_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_GO-XLPt6ul1XKEmy8F_qG8HiZxMbHyAGiE2AkVJmQjcZMcuFTWzMz3C1pripbKJy32_zgwKsMFnFSjOVv6MIl5v1CysU7KrX1Ga7H8St3L74AVk9Rh0_z5Tsyyt46MaxfN0gRO4gOCs/s320/11889548_10153062437993201_7433274509824555591_n.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raegan, my niece, with her "name cookie" that I baked.</td></tr>
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<b>For dessert, my sister had butterscotch chewies, strawberry rhubarb crisp, ice cream, monster cookies...and then I brought along some of my decorated sugar cookies.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrAcOMOQFGUazddrhEkadlhjWY94tuOGcUK842blbEGfppPpdAsL-ZG36rEmmbRZayy42wB0DXkqOa9PoJJq8P7ZCYcow3IVK9urmc2kQzjWkQDtDLDck3bGlYljBg8bfm3qBHqFqomPFR/s1600/summercollage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrAcOMOQFGUazddrhEkadlhjWY94tuOGcUK842blbEGfppPpdAsL-ZG36rEmmbRZayy42wB0DXkqOa9PoJJq8P7ZCYcow3IVK9urmc2kQzjWkQDtDLDck3bGlYljBg8bfm3qBHqFqomPFR/s320/summercollage2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer Lovin' cookies!</td></tr>
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<b>I went with a summer theme for this platter and made one with everyone's name as well.</b></div>
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<b>You can check out all of my creations on my baking blog here:<br /><a href="http://sweetivyconfections.blogspot.com/">http://sweetivyconfections.blogspot.com/</a></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRrfEryrN_re9fHrMBZrzcjBsA46G5wtGgcfRcuGW18C5upfpw_4eMwhnqaMHPexRnywtLNX5HsdqEs2zy5jTzGxq752FASzHiCOBMqiQ43Tc_gdkgn4YlMMDo2qp3c99x29E9k7Pc28Y2/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRrfEryrN_re9fHrMBZrzcjBsA46G5wtGgcfRcuGW18C5upfpw_4eMwhnqaMHPexRnywtLNX5HsdqEs2zy5jTzGxq752FASzHiCOBMqiQ43Tc_gdkgn4YlMMDo2qp3c99x29E9k7Pc28Y2/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My flowers and patriotic decor</td></tr>
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<b>Like I said, this post is out of order...forgive!</b></div>
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<b>This year instead of planting my old stand-by (petunias)...I went with geraniums and dusty miller. They have done really well, even though we haven't had much rain. I've been consistently watering them daily, but they seem to be more forgiving than petunias if I miss a day. This was the first July 4th in YEARS, that we haven't spent the week at Mackinac Island. Due to hubby and Evan's work schedules, we had to take a June trip instead of a July trip (BUT WE'RE GOING BACK IN AUGUST!). Anywho...I put out some patriotic decor since we were home this year. Some little flags and red/white/blue hearts in the window box.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDYGFprlvSJvQDWMXchvWoSKa4WN8PtpAB2XTG4EyUJ-V5iTKULrNhsSY9ekrHVJtd4pjURUnlTDEv1xobDoF-bLkiYJoRmuGwB6KWBTx3Q9f3WlPgqwNktyL98nQ-HcdhgQDexftvrTLh/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDYGFprlvSJvQDWMXchvWoSKa4WN8PtpAB2XTG4EyUJ-V5iTKULrNhsSY9ekrHVJtd4pjURUnlTDEv1xobDoF-bLkiYJoRmuGwB6KWBTx3Q9f3WlPgqwNktyL98nQ-HcdhgQDexftvrTLh/s320/003.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My garden flag and more flowers!</td></tr>
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<b>Oh! I also got marigolds! I almost forgot. They are doing exceptionally well too!</b></div>
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<b>I put two pots of those on each side of the garage.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAC7LIwIYt1RqZm4iAXS6FnHPRcco8fwPpSPP23Dyf20B-WhmBub4gqaihl9fjNE8x6JidOuqegLJ5U-Tm725nhyphenhyphenMdYItgwmfPAhFSfQW7mveIs6KaFQ0CQ2yjs_N7REARdyPFOPo81I1/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAC7LIwIYt1RqZm4iAXS6FnHPRcco8fwPpSPP23Dyf20B-WhmBub4gqaihl9fjNE8x6JidOuqegLJ5U-Tm725nhyphenhyphenMdYItgwmfPAhFSfQW7mveIs6KaFQ0CQ2yjs_N7REARdyPFOPo81I1/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The deck</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Last year, we had to have all of the wood trim replaced around the sides of our garage. That is where I had my bracket/holder for my flag. Well, we had to take it down during the construction...and...it never got put back up. Soooo...I now hang my American flag as a banner on the deck during the patriotic holidays. I added some red/white/blue bows as well.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcqlr35zigHa1QN831cUTZFLbec3BKXqwZFH8ljSFRm9g0nKS-vF8UCfovSxikVD-JTyrW2-bmIkWiuZ2DuKmmoNeP68hN_Us02TgXMDUeu9oCPhNqlrn6x25DUUmyzS1HKE1nUk6R3t3/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcqlr35zigHa1QN831cUTZFLbec3BKXqwZFH8ljSFRm9g0nKS-vF8UCfovSxikVD-JTyrW2-bmIkWiuZ2DuKmmoNeP68hN_Us02TgXMDUeu9oCPhNqlrn6x25DUUmyzS1HKE1nUk6R3t3/s320/009.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front porch</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVkHKLJlBcT15YeFXqbzirYQFy99EhXb2Eg33klhje-2aGrxEyqj0dajlyYvHmbNvAA3xEqCXA9nhG4z1aAp6r-3QuxpEL0BicMHNYFQBeuGsTdf6v7sBUVzINv_ocveWQoKVTEGj0Nlp/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVkHKLJlBcT15YeFXqbzirYQFy99EhXb2Eg33klhje-2aGrxEyqj0dajlyYvHmbNvAA3xEqCXA9nhG4z1aAp6r-3QuxpEL0BicMHNYFQBeuGsTdf6v7sBUVzINv_ocveWQoKVTEGj0Nlp/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>My hydrangea bush seems to be struggling each year. A big threatening "weed" or "growth" of some kind took root in there and it is THICK. I think it may be threatening my poor little hydrangea. It is too thick to pull out, so I have cut it down to the ground, but it still grows back. The hydrangeas have been holding their own though and blooming beautifully each year. I got it as a tiny little plant and now it's quite large!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FFaLF9zIapLwGeX6FC1CecxF3jhwN-pa7uM_TcTEVL8ot_2um_x7SVIJF7VA-7NFO48LPRSBc0Yl7nunK1CernyYAKOXcCB_Ash_xn31DB7txKSyCyYuYjdTmLi5OPgz7X5NmA94DfVl/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FFaLF9zIapLwGeX6FC1CecxF3jhwN-pa7uM_TcTEVL8ot_2um_x7SVIJF7VA-7NFO48LPRSBc0Yl7nunK1CernyYAKOXcCB_Ash_xn31DB7txKSyCyYuYjdTmLi5OPgz7X5NmA94DfVl/s320/002.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Some of you may remember me sharing, I was born in Tennessee, but grew up in Illinois before moving to Michigan at age 12. When I lived in Illinois, we lived just the other side of the river from St. Louis...so we were always Cardinal fans growing up. (I've since been converted to a Detroit Tiger fan by my hubby, hehe!) But anyway, my parents were headed back "home" for a family reunion and my aunt asked if I'd make her some cookies (what I do in my "free" time, lol). These were a fun set to make and I think they enjoyed them. They are buttery vanilla almond with royal icing.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmk8jHDtPmPnKoWzyEsvp1mEiC_vLfcrwQa548Fmhdzdu_uUuEyL5ITgEYitpk-hBsEEiT55zw2QoxMU99_rmSDX2mlWvJDOHlrGye8hhrxwdI7Xzt8CGNsEInJK8Ox5-ssuXcbJYE6ym/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmk8jHDtPmPnKoWzyEsvp1mEiC_vLfcrwQa548Fmhdzdu_uUuEyL5ITgEYitpk-hBsEEiT55zw2QoxMU99_rmSDX2mlWvJDOHlrGye8hhrxwdI7Xzt8CGNsEInJK8Ox5-ssuXcbJYE6ym/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Ever since I got my fireplace for Christmas last year, I've enjoyed decorating it for all the holidays and seasons. After July 4th, I didn't really have a season/holiday to go with. So I did a "Pure Michigan" theme!</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXGqdB42OUMwuwSmrcBqda6fRPhf6plC6xPwKuqP_jZu2AXq8cahexDG9q9NSjAwEX3kU4164U2SQzRA_PDqtYdoKlyiPEvxx-Nl7S4Zdp-qKbqz89d58mlBWv2IT7ZS6p9Qz1-T0hhEO/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXGqdB42OUMwuwSmrcBqda6fRPhf6plC6xPwKuqP_jZu2AXq8cahexDG9q9NSjAwEX3kU4164U2SQzRA_PDqtYdoKlyiPEvxx-Nl7S4Zdp-qKbqz89d58mlBWv2IT7ZS6p9Qz1-T0hhEO/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smitten With The Mitten</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home</td></tr>
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<b>Well...after many years...I finally retired "Rex". "Rex" was my old cell phone. The boys called it Rex (as in T-Rex) because it was as "old as a dinosaur" they told me. I am a "little" late to the party, but I finally got a smart phone. WOW. Am I ever having fun, LOL!</b></div>
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<b>And I am in love with my girly little case! Ha!</b></div>
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<b>Each month when I decorate my mantel, I try to coordinate my hallway chalkboard. Thus...the "Smitten With The Mitten" (Pure Michigan) chalkboard!</b></div>
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<b> I am still plugging away at school!</b></div>
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<b>I am almost done with my third term at WGU which will put me just over half way done with my degree! If there is one thing I can instill in my sons, it's to FINISH COLLEGE immediately after high school. I am proud of what I am doing in showing them that it's important to finish what you start and that anything is possible! But I want them to know how important it is for them to do it right when they finish high school. They see how hard it is for me now...working 55+ hours a week with my daycare business, running my part-time baking business, raising a family...PLUS going to school full time! But I'm going to show them! Dreams come true when you work hard! I know that the day I get my diploma not only will I be excited...but I'm pretty sure I will cry...tears of joy, pure exhaustion, and gratitude.</b></div>
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<b>Well...I think that catches us up 'til now!</b></div>
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<b>We have one more trip to Mackinac we're taking. I'll be sure to post pics of that when we get back. I hope everyone is having a wonderful summer!</b></div>
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<b>God bless! </b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-21405407830401913172015-07-10T09:42:00.000-07:002015-07-10T09:43:44.794-07:00Mackinac Island In June!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaj0L88o4t9Nf5Uwdkp1PCNNVra-zTf7lD-8u35Ce8mSUJgdpMt3v9HKXdlPz1teiYdRjc0NZN7W1r5KG6RKcULmqw6XHE17QG-nrc9bmcsIGLG0WC8C-BEvG0CkiE4vcBQNZ86YSmT9b/s1600/va1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaj0L88o4t9Nf5Uwdkp1PCNNVra-zTf7lD-8u35Ce8mSUJgdpMt3v9HKXdlPz1teiYdRjc0NZN7W1r5KG6RKcULmqw6XHE17QG-nrc9bmcsIGLG0WC8C-BEvG0CkiE4vcBQNZ86YSmT9b/s320/va1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>In June, we took a trip to our favorite vacation destination, Mackinac Island.</b></div>
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<b>People don't even have to ask us where we're going on vacation...they know.</b></div>
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<b>Our love for the Island is evident. Everyone knows.</b></div>
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<b>Some folks have asked us, "Don't you get sick of going there? Don't you want to go somewhere else?" And they always get a resounding (from all four of us) "NO THANK-YOU!" Haha!</b></div>
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<b>We stayed for five days and had a wonderful time.</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite signs on a trail.</td></tr>
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<b>It rained a little, but we never let that dampen our spirits. "That's what umbrellas are for!" we always say! We still walk, hike, bike, and do every other thing we feel like doing. No amount of imperfect weather stops us!</b></div>
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<b>We walked the entire perimeter of the Island (8 miles) and stopped off at British Landing at the CannonBall for fried pickles.</b></div>
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<b>I always love seeing all of these rock statues that people stop and build. The boys stopped and created one during our walk.</b></div>
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<b>The flowers are always so beautiful on the Island.</b></div>
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<b>For June, it was actually quite cool (meaning jackets most days and even jeans for me on a few occasions).</b></div>
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<b>Naturally, being so cool...I didn't think about sunscreen (one of the few days I wore shorts).</b></div>
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<b>So, my knees got a little fried as I was sitting outside by the lake.</b></div>
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<b>Me and my babes!</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys on their electronics...</td></tr>
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<b>We stayed at the Harbour View Inn.</b></div>
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<b>Me and my Natee!</b></div>
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<b>We always stop off at Sadie's for ice cream (at least once)!</b></div>
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<b>Gorgeous flowers at Mission Point.</b></div>
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<b>Jamie and the boys at Sugar Loaf.</b></div>
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<b>GORGEOUS lilacs!</b></div>
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<b>My guys get sick of me...I stop at EVERY lilac bush to stop and smell them, LOL!</b></div>
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<b>Jamie and the boys hiking up Rifle Range to see the newly built Fort Holmes.</b></div>
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<b>All of us at Round Island Bar & Grill for dinner.</b></div>
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<b>We had an awesome time and will be headed back later this summer with my parents for a week! I can't wait! </b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-51406207180603757172015-06-05T08:30:00.002-07:002015-06-14T12:09:02.047-07:00May Musings...Let's Catch Up...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Well, as I've mentioned before...since I've started going back to school full time (along with working full time)...the blog has taken a back seat. But I figure as long as I can get one good post a month and catch up our family life...I'm doing good! Ha!</b></div>
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<b>We're doing well, busy as always. Yesterday was National Hug A Cat Day...hence the first picture in the post, LOL! Katarina is the little princess in our household, so I had to nab a picture of her for the day.</b></div>
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<b>Yesterday was Nate's last day of school. It was his last year at Cityside. Look out ZEHS...here he comes! He came home with his Celebr8 video (year end photo/video), a President's Education Awards Program certificate, 8th grade graduation certificate, and a Finish Strong t-shirt (logging hours for staying active/physically fit). He is looking forward to a summer of relaxation.</b></div>
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<b>In my "spare time" (right), I've been experimenting with some Pinterest ideas I've always wanted to try...namely dry shampoo. It turned out really well and I really like it! This one is very simple...corn starch and oatmeal. I love that it's all natural and inexpensive...and best of all, it works!</b></div>
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<b>A couple weeks ago, mom, Jess, and I had our annual Girl's Day Out. We love going to thrift stores. It's like treasure hunting! We always enjoy lunch out and coffee or smoothies later!</b></div>
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<b>We stopped in Hobby Lobby while we were out thrifting and they had a clearance on their wall decor. I got this cute "J" and pink platter for 60% off. I'm going to spray paint the "J" and use chalkboard paint on the tray and hang both in my kitchen!</b></div>
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<b>Between all of our thrift store stops, I found an abundance of cookie cutters! Cookie cutters are my obsession. I love coming across unusual or vintage ones. It's actually rare when I find one I don't have.</b></div>
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<b>I got quite a few cute clothes. My summer wardrobe expanded!</b></div>
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<b>In other news, my rose bushes are blooming!</b></div>
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<b>As you all know, I'm going back to school to get my teaching degree. My school (WGU) held a little contest (Thank A Teacher) and I wrote a post about my favorite high school teacher...and I was selected as one of the winners! I won a $30.00 gift certificate to the school store! I chose this hoodie!</b></div>
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<b>I have had this beautiful flowering bush in my yard for 15 years. Each year I post a picture and ask friends if they know what it's called. No one ever knows what it is. This year, a friend of mine helped me locate a picture of it online and we discovered it's called a Japanese Snowball! Unfortunately, the blooms only last about 2 weeks. But I love it!</b></div>
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<b>Last year, my mom gave me some Hens & Chicks to plant...they came back! I love succulents!</b></div>
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<b>Nate and I have been taking bike rides in the evenings. I hope to do this all summer long. It's one of the few forms of exercise I enjoy!</b></div>
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<b>Tulip Time was a success again this year. This was Nate's last year marching with the middle school band. Next year he'll march with the high school band. Evan said it was weird NOT to be marching after 7 years in the band!</b></div>
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<b>The parades are always fun and the evenings filled with walking through the tulips and getting fair food are great too!</b></div>
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<b>There's my Nate!</b></div>
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<b>Nate once again made the Champion Chix list all 6 terms and was a part of the awards ceremony. We were very proud of him!</b></div>
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<b>I've been busy working with my baking business. I did this graduation gift for our pastor's son. If you haven't already, be sure to check out my baking blog at:<br /><a href="http://sweetivyconfections.blogspot.com/">http://sweetivyconfections.blogspot.com/</a></b></div>
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<b>We are also on Facebook:<br />Sweet Ivy Confections</b></div>
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<b>And Twitter:<br />Sweet_Ivy_Conf</b></div>
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<b>I have a wedding order coming up...400 cake pops and a small cutting cake for the bride and groom! So this month will be busy!</b></div>
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<b>Our car lease was up this year...and we are now the proud new owners of a Toyota Rav4!</b></div>
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<b>We really love it! We are buying instead of leasing this time.</b></div>
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<b>And...introducing...EVAN'S CAR! Yes, my baby has his own car now!</b></div>
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<b>He completed his first year at GVSU and has been working full time this summer at Meijer. He bought it all on his own! It's a 2005 Toyota Matrix. He really loves it. INDEPENDENCE!</b></div>
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<b>Nate had his end of year trip with his class to Mackinac Island. He had a blast, but they jam pack so much into 24 hours, he said he's really looking forward to our family trip in June when he can do his own thing, LOL!</b></div>
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<b>Well, that about sums up our May. Hope you're all having an amazing summer!</b></div>
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<b>TTFN! </b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-73621926092076589302015-05-02T20:38:00.002-07:002015-05-02T21:14:33.880-07:00EARTHQUAKE!<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Today we experienced our first earthquake!</b></div>
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<b>Our Saturday started out as any other. Jamie came home from his night shift and went to sleep. I sat around in my recliner checking my e-mail and Facebook sipping coffee while the boys were upstairs having a snack. At around 12:23 p.m. there was a low "rumble" and we felt the entire floor and house shake violently! I was SCARED...TO...DEATH. We have never experienced an earthquake.</b></div>
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<b>I jumped out of my chair and said, "What was that?" Our kitty came running down the stairs with a perplexed look on her face. Nate said, "Was that an earthquake?" Evan said, "We don't get earthquakes in Michigan!" I said, "What was it?" I thought maybe there was a pipe or something in the ground going to burst! I don't know. I have no clue. I'm looking outside, in the basement, all over the house. Nate said, "It wasn't a truck or a plane or the wind!" Evan said, "Maybe it's the military!" Let me tell you, we were coming up with every scenario EXCEPT earthquake, because WE JUST DON'T GET EARTHQUAKES IN MICHIGAN!</b></div>
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<b>FACEBOOK!</b></div>
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<b>I said, "Let me check Facebook!" Sure enough, friends from all over the state had felt it. Kalamazoo, Galesburg, Vicksburg, Lansing, Detroit, Grand Rapids...ALL OVER THE STATE.</b></div>
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<b>At least I knew I wasn't going crazy. At least all my family and friends experienced it too.</b></div>
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<b>Turns out, there was a 4.2 earthquake experienced by all of us here in Michigan.</b></div>
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<b>I tell you, it scared the crud out of me! My heart was racing, my whole being was shaking, and I was praying! Thankfully it was mild and no one was hurt and nothing was damaged.</b></div>
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<b>I know folks in California experience things like this everyday and it's a normal everyday occurrence for them. But for us here in Michigan, this was a HUGE deal. It was scary.</b></div>
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<b>I am grateful we are all fine.</b></div>
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<b>Now there's one more item I can cross off my life experiences!</b></div>
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<b>Ha! </b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-57289634153549535222015-04-23T07:50:00.001-07:002015-04-23T07:51:43.376-07:00As promised...the Mitten Bakers Cookie Gathering!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Last Saturday was the Mitten Bakers Cookie Gathering.</b></div>
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<b>The Mitten Bakers is an online group I belong to, made up of bakers from mostly Michigan, but also northern Ohio, northern Indiana, and a few from Canada. The administrators of our group planned and put together this gathering within just a few short months and let me tell you...it was FABULOUS! A full day of classes, contests, raffles, prizes, swag bags, food, and friendship! The swag bags were FILLED with amazing baking items from awesome sponsors! It was so awesome spending the day with others who share my love of all things sugar! We had six classes/demos...everything from airbrushing, stenciling, royal icing transfers, hand-painting on cookies, stamping on cookies, and cake pops. You can read my FULL post about the day on my baking blog:<br /><a href="http://sweetivyconfections.blogspot.com/2015/04/mitten-bakers-cookie-gathering-2015.html">Sweet Ivy Confections.</a></b></div>
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<b>The flower cookie above was from our airbrushing class. </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtG_qZhXplRpVyz9Rn8k0-VynIxd8wXp0xrfT2g32ymUIbRXl-yTVOeDJcciNCIc57v3_wkzsvLNJ-w6JfjsTcqaAde3IAV95e2LnW6GZRE4fQ_shSQvO5Pk4sEqDXvv0gUH5jvszd7Q8/s1600/020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtG_qZhXplRpVyz9Rn8k0-VynIxd8wXp0xrfT2g32ymUIbRXl-yTVOeDJcciNCIc57v3_wkzsvLNJ-w6JfjsTcqaAde3IAV95e2LnW6GZRE4fQ_shSQvO5Pk4sEqDXvv0gUH5jvszd7Q8/s1600/020.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>This super mom cookie was from our stenciling class.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOLThH2VJT01lDiOabHLy_kkvwgI6KwIDa2xR36rLN3JSZbnqIwOIT9wacs9mfCd0vgG9lLxl_Pnl95DgD99VKPlkAJs4YgHqjZ7EqLe_tMe7EHTFQjRuqGvOleLTzMqB1y1su4X5fvmY/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiOLThH2VJT01lDiOabHLy_kkvwgI6KwIDa2xR36rLN3JSZbnqIwOIT9wacs9mfCd0vgG9lLxl_Pnl95DgD99VKPlkAJs4YgHqjZ7EqLe_tMe7EHTFQjRuqGvOleLTzMqB1y1su4X5fvmY/s1600/027.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>This cookie was my first attempt at painting on cookies.</b></div>
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<b>Clearly, this isn't my strong point...yet. </b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnhiHCGHxHYZW9L3lG-kCzpBn6trK8APPAGNsPdYhQDyas2nVUPjKcBjBSXCggJVCExfK3wANSEtzcjFYoyy3TTk3_Dv-7jukyhUgaytDBTVW43WStUlm6fo9f7rscaHPgcctEEBUK2_6/s1600/029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnhiHCGHxHYZW9L3lG-kCzpBn6trK8APPAGNsPdYhQDyas2nVUPjKcBjBSXCggJVCExfK3wANSEtzcjFYoyy3TTk3_Dv-7jukyhUgaytDBTVW43WStUlm6fo9f7rscaHPgcctEEBUK2_6/s1600/029.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Unfortunately my airbrushed cookie didn't make it home in one piece.</b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>All of our airbrushed flowers.</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSf149dWfThOsY08J4ReLjEI5xA3UC0ic8lQmQ9KtLtjLXK3brYkJbJnEDEF45_ye478D1Nb1pKwOI7DlPR5IS4HEHP7p1cG_gkKxs8CFJ-XkTG6LhoFT7sJFDhMesD43AT05skQE_eFbH/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSf149dWfThOsY08J4ReLjEI5xA3UC0ic8lQmQ9KtLtjLXK3brYkJbJnEDEF45_ye478D1Nb1pKwOI7DlPR5IS4HEHP7p1cG_gkKxs8CFJ-XkTG6LhoFT7sJFDhMesD43AT05skQE_eFbH/s1600/004.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>We had a Super Hero themed contest & my friend entered this cookie w/ my photo as a little private joke between us.</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>This was my entry in the contest! Super Cookier!</b></td></tr>
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<b>It was an amazing day learning new things and hanging out with some of the most talented women in the state and surrounding areas who share my love of sugar! We all made so many new friends! Don't forget to read the full post on my baking blog!</b></div>
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<b>Below are a few things I've been working on since the gathering...practice makes perfect!</b></div>
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<b>Thanks for reading!</b></div>
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<b>TTFN!</b></div>
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Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-38713339000309137712015-04-15T06:23:00.000-07:002015-04-22T20:26:15.284-07:00Easter and beyond...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOGA4J4JTdeA5z_8GHjE3mXsOIXh2sHSRohk02MlgZFRhsEOIWvYwmnKd72PMFZxYq3duYB0cfiiWvUqpP1GlGmH9NLfzZFQTZ4q6PU0Hjdodtcxw_DrBf5-XxAIPpkNiwMg1RQgSVaqQp/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOGA4J4JTdeA5z_8GHjE3mXsOIXh2sHSRohk02MlgZFRhsEOIWvYwmnKd72PMFZxYq3duYB0cfiiWvUqpP1GlGmH9NLfzZFQTZ4q6PU0Hjdodtcxw_DrBf5-XxAIPpkNiwMg1RQgSVaqQp/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>We had a good Easter.</b></div>
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<b>It doesn't matter how old we get...we always dye eggs.</b></div>
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<b>It's just one of those holiday traditions that I don't think you need to "grow out of".</b></div>
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<b>Kind of like carving jack-o-lanterns...everyone should do it...no matter your age.</b></div>
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<b>We did "glitter eggs" this year. I had bought this kit on clearance last year after Easter.</b></div>
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<b>It was a good concept, except the glitter didn't really adhere that well.</b></div>
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<b>What did, was pretty.</b></div>
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<b>The boys didn't want their pictures taken...</b></div>
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<b>And they were acting all goofy.</b></div>
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<b>I promised I wouldn't post them on Facebook...</b></div>
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<b>But...</b></div>
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<b>I didn't promise I wouldn't post them on the blog.</b></div>
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<b>It's ok boys, no one major reads my blog anyway.</b></div>
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<b>So ham it up...</b></div>
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<b>We went to church and out to Logan's for dinner on Easter.</b></div>
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<b>It was a good day...and thankfully, no snow. :)</b></div>
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<b>Kitty is doing well.</b></div>
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<b>Making her usual blog appearance.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kELUuITf1d_lbS3hAV7_Bob9rpHwAQzpxKnEgLXaZesitLph9S4LMiR6Un8nqmVao3dLvnQWB6OZ5s10jD8KQBB1C5vdjkeLiIGa1N4u6b1BALb8FsyiEXabHndKgdFL4jydwNqB4DQB/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kELUuITf1d_lbS3hAV7_Bob9rpHwAQzpxKnEgLXaZesitLph9S4LMiR6Un8nqmVao3dLvnQWB6OZ5s10jD8KQBB1C5vdjkeLiIGa1N4u6b1BALb8FsyiEXabHndKgdFL4jydwNqB4DQB/s1600/002.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>The other day, for the first time in the six months we've owned her, she discovered the washing machine..go figure. She was completely intrigued. Crazy girl.</b></div>
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<b><br />In other news...</b></div>
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<b>-I passed my science exam/class! YAY! I've finished my first whole year at WGU and am moving right along swiftly. I am now 40% done with my degree. Only a couple more general education classes and then I'll be moving on to all education classes, yes!</b></div>
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<b>-Saturday I'm going to my cookie gathering/convention. It will be a day filled with some of the most amazing bakers. Fun, food, laughter, classes, raffles, prizes, contests, swag bags, and more. I can't wait!</b></div>
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<b>-It's finally getting warmer out. I need to make some time to go out and weed the flower beds/landscape. Pretty soon it will be time to plant the annuals!</b></div>
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<b>I think that wraps things up for now.</b></div>
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<b>Will be sure to give an update after the cookie gathering Saturday!</b></div>
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<b>Hope you all are having a great spring!</b></div>
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<b>MJ </b></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-73993992516698022722015-03-31T06:03:00.001-07:002015-04-01T11:53:24.703-07:00Blogging has taken a backseat...as has everything else...<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/AVvXsEgKyMiEIx3Iw6vy3WnWWfd3lH6v0IX7xBIVuTv1aa5IzIY7iaY1Fj6POKpV0QJu4oM0YMtaXaykqeNTD7mV8Ss_cI2aAKz2uAA_1-t-Pv8O9r5ezyLpvgBeO2WX7l7hAVI42Fs2f0ghDKua/s1600/10986638_10152816222247087_3492743440084768714_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyMiEIx3Iw6vy3WnWWfd3lH6v0IX7xBIVuTv1aa5IzIY7iaY1Fj6POKpV0QJu4oM0YMtaXaykqeNTD7mV8Ss_cI2aAKz2uAA_1-t-Pv8O9r5ezyLpvgBeO2WX7l7hAVI42Fs2f0ghDKua/s1600/10986638_10152816222247087_3492743440084768714_n.jpg" height="188" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter mantle</td></tr>
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<b>I used to think I wasn't a very good blogger...keeping up with what's going on in my life.</b></div>
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<b>But now...</b></div>
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<b>Now I think I'm a HORRIBLE blogger.</b></div>
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<b>You see, since I started going back to school full time, not just blogging, but EVERYTHING seems to be taking a back seat with school.</b></div>
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<b>School has kept me so busy (and work), it almost feels like anything else I do in life is almost a "treat". Decorating my mantle for the holidays, doing new chalkboard art, making cookies...shoot, even folding laundry feels like a treat because I get to GET AWAY FROM SCHOOLWORK! I've been horrible stressed with this science class. It has been a science class nightmare. Lord willing, (I'm trusting you God!), I will pass this course SOON!</b></div>
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<b>I did manage to get my Easter mantle done (see pic above). I framed some free printables, strung some bunnies in a banner, and added some of my old decor I keep stored away.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYf85vqPYB3wErMnst7t2PilTTM75vnhrTjz4qrERX1b7PTVNco3W6EZlLnGRtTXtFTPLwch0cuXwtzE7xIzlATUHgLVqR_a6YW1t2l5pAhIwNFqRA__McTX1U-OVx4mwvcrUVdyTJJZ6/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYf85vqPYB3wErMnst7t2PilTTM75vnhrTjz4qrERX1b7PTVNco3W6EZlLnGRtTXtFTPLwch0cuXwtzE7xIzlATUHgLVqR_a6YW1t2l5pAhIwNFqRA__McTX1U-OVx4mwvcrUVdyTJJZ6/s1600/001.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>My Easter chalkboard turned out really nice I think.</b></div>
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<b>I love that song by Nicole C. Mullen, so when I saw the verse on this pattern, I had to have it.</b></div>
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<b>Nate had a band concert last week.</b></div>
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<b>It was his last middle school concert.</b></div>
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<b>We still have some more parades, but this is it for the concerts!</b></div>
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<b>Here he comes high school!</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcVIp1fCZNlGZT54OMSXvxom5Kxf2c9jD2kOV4KHcCuDGrHXT3BcoP2D8b7fpMrJ4Yeo5i4bSHpWWKJ48hJf1lydNFLminp5kL9Ve9ThPHWs6caA9yvOHCIA2iHIJ0j9VFHebQO-mgmXlE/s1600/151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcVIp1fCZNlGZT54OMSXvxom5Kxf2c9jD2kOV4KHcCuDGrHXT3BcoP2D8b7fpMrJ4Yeo5i4bSHpWWKJ48hJf1lydNFLminp5kL9Ve9ThPHWs6caA9yvOHCIA2iHIJ0j9VFHebQO-mgmXlE/s1600/151.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She thinks SHE is the baby of the family</td></tr>
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<b>Katarina is doing well.</b></div>
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<b>She had a small procedure at the vet and has made a perfect recovery.</b></div>
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<b>She is our sweet little stinker.</b></div>
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<b>We love her so much.</b></div>
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<b>I have a cookie convention I'm going to next month.</b></div>
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<b>And I wanted a t-shirt with my logo on it to represent.</b></div>
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<b>I decided to get some blank iron-on transfers and have a go at it myself.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_LsyF8E_ZW_Zfk6uAKT4JkFvxIwi26xlHigycJd-ieQ2fWLk3E9ruSkAnaL8tCX8pGUYMp50ZJu8VO79OnQ4hFuozLP9TszUSprrW1eumJsl1OpCM89in8j3xpX2rly40KGQgHG5aDkG/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_LsyF8E_ZW_Zfk6uAKT4JkFvxIwi26xlHigycJd-ieQ2fWLk3E9ruSkAnaL8tCX8pGUYMp50ZJu8VO79OnQ4hFuozLP9TszUSprrW1eumJsl1OpCM89in8j3xpX2rly40KGQgHG5aDkG/s1600/003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I just played around on a photo editing site and then printed it on the blank transfer.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I am always fearful doing iron-ons. Rightly so. This one gave me some fits. See how it's lighter in some areas and darker in other (in the pink areas). Well, when I went to peel the paper backing off, it stuck. Yes, it stuck. Ugh. I did manage to get it off after much stress, borderline tears, and a phone call to the craft store where I bought it. Thankfully, I don't think it looks that bad. Hubby says it kind of looks "vintage"/"distressed"...LOL!</b></div>
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<b>Yeah...yeah...that's right everyone...I did it on purpose. I was going for the vintage/distressed look, hehe!</b></div>
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<b>Well, I think that's all that's going on around here right now.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are you doing for Easter?<br />I hope you have a very blessed Resurrection Sunday with your family!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>TTFN! </b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-52031787934782235492015-02-23T20:27:00.001-08:002015-03-31T06:06:52.153-07:00Well hello!...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Hello!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I'm alive!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I know, it's been a while...but I haven't given up the blog and left you hanging like many do, haha! I've just been buried in schoolwork, not to mention working 55+ hours a week. It seems all I do is work and study. But here I am back to let you know what's going on in our lives (not much). I have already decorated for St. Patrick's Day. Yes I know, it's still February. But when you're Irish...ya just can't help but get excited over the shamrocks and color green. I think my mantel turned out pretty cute. My mom showed me how to sew "yo-yos" and I connected them all together in shades of green to lay across the top of my mantel. I think they look really cute. Then I printed a "LUCKY" banner. I also printed off some free printables from Pinterest (so perfect for decorating) and framed them. Last year, I scored some shimmery shamrock garland for...(drumroll)...47 cents a roll! I got three and laid them across my mantel with white lights. I love the look. Added a few green and gold candles and voila! St. Patty's Day style! </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGIu8RoLbJtSiHNLfkwbscWH-eDLYBOhYclj7jENDP2qSSdwqsDIWCwX1Rrp7GFMVvG6a-NpJ8jlGEzd2AVw4GWNG641v2abkjZIuXBSeQvZJYOWHQoY7ohTDCtUm1sKdo-HLNd2DgHRsS/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGIu8RoLbJtSiHNLfkwbscWH-eDLYBOhYclj7jENDP2qSSdwqsDIWCwX1Rrp7GFMVvG6a-NpJ8jlGEzd2AVw4GWNG641v2abkjZIuXBSeQvZJYOWHQoY7ohTDCtUm1sKdo-HLNd2DgHRsS/s1600/001.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I did a quick St. Patty's Day chalkboard today too. Not my best work. But hey, I was in a hurry and...it works.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRDSeA2qt0jQhPnUcptHcARkL74IMkgSmjVRo26PJ5CHmgP1cBWJMgywgAtIrC_yZYeEwTw3aBxCUE3UKNAP8iNfMXZL8WhBEueFmZU9edIIia86LrHr9ouu6o7EC3-oM2mhV2oPMf_O-/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRDSeA2qt0jQhPnUcptHcARkL74IMkgSmjVRo26PJ5CHmgP1cBWJMgywgAtIrC_yZYeEwTw3aBxCUE3UKNAP8iNfMXZL8WhBEueFmZU9edIIia86LrHr9ouu6o7EC3-oM2mhV2oPMf_O-/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Katarina is doing well. Mischievous as ever. She is the little princess of the house. We recently were having issues with her scratching (she has all of her claws) and so we took her to the groomer and had SoftPaws (caps) put on. I have mixed feelings. I really like them over all. She can't snag up the furniture anymore. But because our carpet is so thick, she can still hook the rubber caps into it and pull the fibers out. So we're still trying to figure out a remedy for that. Otherwise, she is doing great and we love her to death! </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUfTOY9yzvorwahcmgzL7kw4ig0U3FnZQC0g0_HHKyGN9FvVuBRrIm5kOQW6jpRl3KFANURqIsqpB-h0fe__Bg-KrO41mTlINvT-v7RS00Tf47BKmi9lvx0QY4Nwi6uvdXSuKSFRXU6Pg/s1600/11017125_10152757300952087_318597394961513808_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUfTOY9yzvorwahcmgzL7kw4ig0U3FnZQC0g0_HHKyGN9FvVuBRrIm5kOQW6jpRl3KFANURqIsqpB-h0fe__Bg-KrO41mTlINvT-v7RS00Tf47BKmi9lvx0QY4Nwi6uvdXSuKSFRXU6Pg/s1600/11017125_10152757300952087_318597394961513808_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The boys and I are doing great. We've all been healthy. The boys are doing fantastic in school (as am I). We all have our challenging classes (for me, math and science)...but we're managing and doing well. Hubby recently had a health scare. He spent 2 nights in the hospital. We found out he has an ulcer. He will be having a scope done next week to find out the best treatment plan and more about it. We appreciate your prayers.</b></div>
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<b>Other than that, things are going well at our house!</b></div>
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<b>How is your winter going? Are you surviving the frigid temps?<br />Stay warm...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time... </b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-83847011342872691252015-01-19T18:37:00.002-08:002015-03-31T06:07:05.490-07:00Mantels...<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/AVvXsEg2z5lThHY4btmoRSmUeHaosYHJeOhreyQu1SZz-bYCqZZb-txOQ7tzwF9sdLYHq_dONkfDKJLRjWaITIBrHrlef4aXtg2V8Sm4ZTmDC4n7ycliLSNeMWbkXeJBC8i4pH4u9veT2rZcxTK5/s1600/mantel1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2z5lThHY4btmoRSmUeHaosYHJeOhreyQu1SZz-bYCqZZb-txOQ7tzwF9sdLYHq_dONkfDKJLRjWaITIBrHrlef4aXtg2V8Sm4ZTmDC4n7ycliLSNeMWbkXeJBC8i4pH4u9veT2rZcxTK5/s1600/mantel1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas 2014 mantel</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I've been having so much fun with my mantel!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Yes...I wanted a fireplace for the warmth, ambiance, coziness, etc.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But decorating a mantel is so much fun!</b></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUTxlBtgPL9E0F2vnoamwfXmv2pD0vAghG5fbvPk2ZR9wRqBmCJGlOpc9_XJ-jMRW34boLDAIR81jLVfv_ENhFb4HUujVyFLPbKqwnZFPUsVAcxj-gFMyRsWFjtssYxriFOz8omDojUKaR/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUTxlBtgPL9E0F2vnoamwfXmv2pD0vAghG5fbvPk2ZR9wRqBmCJGlOpc9_XJ-jMRW34boLDAIR81jLVfv_ENhFb4HUujVyFLPbKqwnZFPUsVAcxj-gFMyRsWFjtssYxriFOz8omDojUKaR/s1600/004.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter/Snowman 2015 mantel</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>So far I've done Christmas, Winter/Snowman, and Valentine's Day themes.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I already have ideas for St. Patrick's Day!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I just think it brings so much festivity to the home.</b></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWl9a6aCqgKOozwX7Ys6IlSyN9U-Mda-7ZSM19TWMLu55iHeLO2ZVmTiOG2NRKWH9jMMUadexkYSn5lnUzq8u05Yg_M7lRxUmupDxXoiyaAOK4VNi4AO-jBWA2IRBlu7dcKJWhx3uZPowZ/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWl9a6aCqgKOozwX7Ys6IlSyN9U-Mda-7ZSM19TWMLu55iHeLO2ZVmTiOG2NRKWH9jMMUadexkYSn5lnUzq8u05Yg_M7lRxUmupDxXoiyaAOK4VNi4AO-jBWA2IRBlu7dcKJWhx3uZPowZ/s1600/001.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valentine's Day 2015 mantel</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Do you decorate your mantel for each holiday/season?</b><br />
<b>If so, where do you get inspiration and ideas?</b><br />
<b>Pinterest has been my go-to thus far.</b><br />
<b>Share your blog link if you have photos!</b><br />
<b>I'd love to see!</b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-63514278618209638142015-01-02T19:04:00.000-08:002015-01-02T19:06:26.915-08:00I Feel Like A Slug...<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/AVvXsEjMnuLHCSHP9X9Itgb7r9nm0GWiJGjDqd_Sgw5JXQexNkrDwXvEfWiySXcaAXXHEM2LFRTMEQkvSYuHcJlwiOsGPfSCE7u9n_LFakkOtyYc-UnVRbVgHu7IfdjWSOwDy1UeYEhwuUb_SYuB/s1600/diet3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnuLHCSHP9X9Itgb7r9nm0GWiJGjDqd_Sgw5JXQexNkrDwXvEfWiySXcaAXXHEM2LFRTMEQkvSYuHcJlwiOsGPfSCE7u9n_LFakkOtyYc-UnVRbVgHu7IfdjWSOwDy1UeYEhwuUb_SYuB/s1600/diet3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me with my boys on vacation...approx. 9-10 years ago...</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I'm not quite sure what happened.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Or how it happened.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Or when it happened.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But my metabolism just isn't what it used to be. </b></div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjB3dcWioOD6ewJrh3mAgHd-PKLtV6iY2R-ucHutmxyccoMK_2kQQk3JHfb_nAtKaQkAlx3tTGiv66wGZGOEIpKpd8t6a8SyKTOOGk0-i9ZCF0mwtlZkFoCWhoPGKFUDfC4zO9qmupEaap/s1600/diet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjB3dcWioOD6ewJrh3mAgHd-PKLtV6iY2R-ucHutmxyccoMK_2kQQk3JHfb_nAtKaQkAlx3tTGiv66wGZGOEIpKpd8t6a8SyKTOOGk0-i9ZCF0mwtlZkFoCWhoPGKFUDfC4zO9qmupEaap/s1600/diet2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on a trip w/ hubby...probably 9 or 10 years ago...</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>So many moms gain their weight during their pregnancy, and then have a hard time losing the baby weight. That was never the case for me. I only gained 19 pounds with my first son, and 22 with my second. I walked out of the hospital after having my first son weighing one pound LESS than my pre-pregnancy weight. Yes. I said A FULL POUND LESS than my PRE-pregnancy weight! (please don't hate me!)</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqydlKA8dtL5eGCiGdBHTkJH_x8SJT1VnkHppudWMkVNkjKtFTikWZ841PypbpNYMS5sfc5IouoqkU8Aw5A8HOJCUjqduzFz_ulRpQsNOjo5PhnF08pSLSfwfc-Brd9aKZUUomvmNzt2I/s1600/diet4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqydlKA8dtL5eGCiGdBHTkJH_x8SJT1VnkHppudWMkVNkjKtFTikWZ841PypbpNYMS5sfc5IouoqkU8Aw5A8HOJCUjqduzFz_ulRpQsNOjo5PhnF08pSLSfwfc-Brd9aKZUUomvmNzt2I/s1600/diet4.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I always had a great metabolism. I never had to diet. I could eat whatever I wanted.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I never really exercised. I mean, hubby and I took walks. I chased the boys around.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But I didn't "really" exercise. And I never gained weight.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinN1odmzww-f9MQVyn3qVC3jzykZfFlEGQHLxYLUemGS_5Fml2Qg7S49hXIB4azasySs4SwfOQFZwzdTdgublUxzU7edaQfiEO3VvG9iA56oF8yYi4LEHVUZVH2hYHWSIz1HtlC0sfTouz/s1600/diet5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinN1odmzww-f9MQVyn3qVC3jzykZfFlEGQHLxYLUemGS_5Fml2Qg7S49hXIB4azasySs4SwfOQFZwzdTdgublUxzU7edaQfiEO3VvG9iA56oF8yYi4LEHVUZVH2hYHWSIz1HtlC0sfTouz/s1600/diet5.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me and the boys 9-10 years ago...</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Then I started gaining weight. It was a slow thing at first.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Each fall/winter, I'd gain maybe 4-5 pounds. You know, it starts at Halloween with all the candy. Then the big Thanksgiving dinner and pies. Then Christmas comes with all of it's dips, spreads, cookies, and treats. But after the holidays in late winter/early spring, I'd go on a diet and start exercising and I'd lose 7 or 8 pounds. I'd get rid of the gut, gain more energy, look and feel better about myself.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtT6hq16W1XQcuJPfNHFah2XcvoetJRzK5pXJSX-ZeDdx5hPbKHe4xlW-vU6rBMRHBHGJR6FpW3vheMEBNW-5uB4zHr23UMsFmFTL3d0yyY4X2CmvrmB1R-ovwSxu01AqU0EcSug67E1wa/s1600/diet6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtT6hq16W1XQcuJPfNHFah2XcvoetJRzK5pXJSX-ZeDdx5hPbKHe4xlW-vU6rBMRHBHGJR6FpW3vheMEBNW-5uB4zHr23UMsFmFTL3d0yyY4X2CmvrmB1R-ovwSxu01AqU0EcSug67E1wa/s1600/diet6.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me and my sis probably 7 or 8 years ago I'm guessing...</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But then this year...everything changed. I really don't know what happened. Age? Hormones? Who knows. Instead of the 4-5 pounds I normally gain each winter...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Between August and December...I gained 15 pounds. It might not sound like a lot to some people. And people who see me now say, "Oh, you look fine!" Well, let me tell you...it's all about the clothes honey! I do a lot of camouflaging! All of my jeans are too tight. All of my shirts are too tight. I go through my closet each day looking for the baggiest/flowing blouses to hide my (more than) muffin top. And it's not just how I look...it's how I feel. I feel like a slug. I feel unhealthy. I feel tired...lethargic...unenergetic. I feel out of breath doing the smallest things. <br />It's time to change.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnSr2AvcJl-ZIwyR8I8FYUfsqqs52AGp8Ubf3s2_VKlqiMojMxQGuaNGwx8VdIPK58j1Y9o60QwFtKSYnwO7d_rNOjzf52XNE2X-02JOrwa5kKVzXNyvGeVKtPxrpF06RtdsYE7Klu0Wm/s1600/diet1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnSr2AvcJl-ZIwyR8I8FYUfsqqs52AGp8Ubf3s2_VKlqiMojMxQGuaNGwx8VdIPK58j1Y9o60QwFtKSYnwO7d_rNOjzf52XNE2X-02JOrwa5kKVzXNyvGeVKtPxrpF06RtdsYE7Klu0Wm/s1600/diet1.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me...7 or 8 years ago...</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Something's got to give.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I cannot do this anymore.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>It's time to get back to portion control and exercising.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Because I feel (and look) awful.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I refuse to buy larger clothes.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hesitate to share when I'm dieting because if someone sees me at a restaurant or eating pizza, they're thinking, "Uh-huh...there she goes messing up her diet!" I can't "diet" like some people. I'm not going all lean protein and greens. I'm not counting points. I cannot live if I deprive myself. What I will do is do portion control. I will make sure I'm eating "serving sizes". If I want a cookie, I'll have ONE. If I want ice cream, I'll have ONE scoop. If I want pizza, I'll limit myself. I'm not a HUGE eater to begin with. I think the biggest thing for me is exercise. I've got to get moving. I'm rejoining our gym. Hubby and I are going to get on the ARC trainers every day and get some cardio in. I'm getting back on my fitness ball and doing my crunches again. Gonna start working with the weights in my basement. The slug is saying goodbye...because when your sweaters fit like spandex, it's time to make a change! </b><br />
<b>(Note...these are all OLD pictures of me. What my goal is! I'm too embarrassed to post pictures of my currenet chubs! Ha!) </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-83738468774319219602014-12-30T21:14:00.000-08:002014-12-30T21:17:33.336-08:00Growing Out The Pixie...Update...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj22-fEUOzogxyehFAQRt6_5FxIo95hQrVnznPbtDzXOBDMh1caAXYmQNDdQ4fvne2rlXAeImnKz0Xyskduu-QOmXoHAoBizAF1E-UWVbg8k6csnAt0VAqYq6XcRvOlaxwcV54HTgpRNkwm/s1600/hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj22-fEUOzogxyehFAQRt6_5FxIo95hQrVnznPbtDzXOBDMh1caAXYmQNDdQ4fvne2rlXAeImnKz0Xyskduu-QOmXoHAoBizAF1E-UWVbg8k6csnAt0VAqYq6XcRvOlaxwcV54HTgpRNkwm/s1600/hair.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>So...it's been nearly 18 months of "growing out the pixie."</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I can't believe I've lasted this long!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Nearly every time I get my hair cut short...I never last.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I end up chopping it off short again.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Don't get me wrong...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I've been tempted...many a times.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I've seen A LOT of cute short cuts out there!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And I've gone through some major awkward stages.</b></div>
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<b>But...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I did it!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I'm actually happy with my hair!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>People are starting to compliment me on it!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Yay!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I've never had "good hair".</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>So to get a compliment on my hair just MAKES MY DAY.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I usually get more compliments when my hair is in a shorter style.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>People seemed to like the pixie.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But I got THE MOST compliments when I wore a short angled bob.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I used to wear it super short and layered in back...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And then angled on the sides.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>People seemed to really like that style on me.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>"I" really liked that style on me.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Only thing, it required SO MUCH upkeep...keeping it trimmed every 6 weeks...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Well, so did the pixie...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's the great thing about growing my hair out now...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I haven't had it trimmed in...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I don't know how long!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I was going every 6 weeks during the first few months because I was in such awful "growing it out" stages. I HAD to keep it trimmed to have any kind of style to it.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But now...it's so healthy, I haven't even had the ends trimmed in several months!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I use Healthy Sexy Hair on my hair (argan oil) when I blow dry.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And if I roll it in sponge rollers at night, I put some leave-in conditioning oil in it before I roll it.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I forget the name of it.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I've just been trimming my own bangs (I know...naughty).</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>But so far...it's working for me!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I've been taking Biotin for the entire 18 months I've been growing it out and I think it really helps. My hair normally grows SOOOOOO SLOW.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Not sure how long I'm gonna let it get...but for now...we're just still growin'!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Stay tuned for more updates! </b></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="left" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y30/littlesonbeam/littlesonbeam002/signature.png" height="320" width="320" />Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-49979403519560160552014-12-27T08:21:00.000-08:002015-03-31T06:07:26.976-07:00Christmas 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Another Christmas has come and gone.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Wow.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Where does the time go. This one kind of just sneaked up on me! We celebrated with the extended family at mom and dad's house this year. Everything was wonderful, the only bad thing was, Jam couldn't be there due to work. Crazy schedule, crazy shifts...bummer. We had a fun day.</b></div>
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<b>Lots of yummy foods, presents, and games.</b></div>
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<b>Everyone playing with their gadgets...cameras, iPads, phones, etc.</b></div>
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<b>Dad with one of his gift cards...</b></div>
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<b>Chillin' w/ my sis and niece...</b></div>
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<b>Mom with one of her gift cards...</b></div>
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<b>Playing games at the table...</b></div>
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<b>We're a crazy bunch!</b></div>
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<b>Christmas morning the boys opened their gifts...</b></div>
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<b>Stocking stuffers...</b></div>
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<b>Ooooh! Could it be? A new game system?</b></div>
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<b>More history books for our history buff!</b></div>
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<b>Gaming headphones for Nate...</b></div>
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<b>Stocking stuffers for Jam...his favorite candy and some Detroit Lions and Tigers decals for the car window.</b></div>
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<b>Kitty with some of her new toys...</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I made a quiche for breakfast.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>It was a great holiday.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We are enjoying our time off together as a family.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We hope your holiday was blessed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have a happy and healthy 2015! </b></div>
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Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-23190676683686670882014-12-02T07:00:00.002-08:002014-12-02T07:01:25.914-08:00Update on my schooling...(WGU)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Just thought I'd give a little update on my progress and where I'm at with school.</b></div>
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<b>I've already completed one term and am working on my second term.</b></div>
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<b>I am a little over 1/3 of the way done...falling somewhere in my sophomore year.</b></div>
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<b>I am loving this school. I don't think I would have ever went back if "traditional" school would have been my only option. WGU is geared specifically for working adults. You can accelerate if you want, but don't have to. Each year is broken up into two 6 month terms.</b></div>
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<b>You work at your own pace, but you still must finish the term by the end of the six months.</b></div>
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<b>If you finish your course load early, you can accelerate and add another class in that term before it ends. It is extremely challenging. If you aren't the kind of person who is self-motivated, can work independently, or set and reach your own goals...it's definitely not the type of school for you. It's A LOT of work. You have to be a go-getter.</b></div>
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<b>The support of the student mentors and course mentors is AMAZING.</b></div>
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<b>They WANT you to succeed. They want you to graduate. They will do anything they can to help you succeed. That is something I never experienced in traditional college at the other two schools I attended. It is difficult, challenging, trying, and overwhelming at times...not only the course load, but balancing it all with a full time job (2 businesses), family, and other day to day responsibilities. This is why I stress over and over again to my sons..."Finish college while you're young. Don't get married and start a family before you finish. Don't quit. Don't give up. Do it while you're young."</b> <b>I hope by my example that they will see that it's worth it to have a college degree. It's been so nice being in college again while my oldest son is in college as well. He has helped me a lot. I'm hoping to continue to accelerate and graduate early...but if I don't and it takes the full amount of time...that's ok too. The point is...I WILL GRADUATE! I am NOT giving up or quitting this time!</b></div>
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<b>It's gonna be so worth it in the end! </b></div>
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Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-37487207253871035212014-11-28T21:25:00.000-08:002015-03-31T06:08:09.222-07:00Merry (early) Christmas To Us! (And some Christmas decorations!)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>I started <strike>whining </strike>mentioning to my husband how I'd love to do a DIY faux fireplace.</b><br />
<b>In the 21 years we've been married, we've never had a fireplace in any of the homes we've lived in. I was telling him about all of the cool faux fireplaces on Pinterest that I had seen and how we could create something really unique and fun. I've always wanted a mantel to decorate for all of the seasons and holidays. I knew a "real" fireplace was out of the question, as it would cost a lot to install a gas one, so I thought "faux" was the next best thing. We could light lots of candles and make it lots of fun. Well...dear hubby says, "Why don't we look for an electric one instead?" Well I never even considered that! We looked around...and although electric fireplaces HAVE come a long way...we were still really wanting that "real flame". Soooo...</b><br />
<b>We got a "gel fuel" fireplace! It uses small cans of gel fuel and you get that real flame!</b><br />
<b>Yay! </b><br />
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<b>It is so awesome. I love the ambiance it gives the room. So cozy!</b><br />
<b>We already decorated for Christmas and I'm loving the warmth the fireplace adds to the room!</b><br />
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<b>I FINALLY got my mantel to decorate!</b><br />
<b>I set out a crystal bowl and put some marbleized glass Christmas bulbs in it. Then I set out my "HOPE" plaque that my momma made for me. A little reindeer votive holder. My "JOY" milk bottles. A glass vase of candy canes. And I also added my brand new cashmere winter mittens that I got last year for my birthday!</b><br />
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<b>We decorated for Christmas early this year.</b><br />
<b>Normally, I say, "The tree does NOT go up before Thanksgiving! We have to give Thanksgiving its do time!"</b><br />
<b>Well, with Thanksgiving falling so late this year, and as much work as it is to put out all of the decor, I caved and we decorated early so we could enjoy it for longer.</b><br />
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<b>I</b> <b>put up two trees again this year. One in the living room and one in the family room.</b><br />
<b>The one above is the living room tree. </b> <br />
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<b>Knick-knacks on our end tables...</b> <br />
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<b>My momma made me the JOY bottles and the HOPE plaque.</b><br />
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<b>My snowmen...</b><br />
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<b>The tree in the family room...</b><br />
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<b>Momma made me the JOY plaque too...</b><br />
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<b>Mom and dad made the "For unto us a child is born" tree...they're such DIYers!</b><br />
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<b>More table decor...</b><br />
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<b>Coffee table...</b><br />
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<b>Living room...</b><br />
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<b>Kitchen...</b><br />
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<b>Patio...</b><br />
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<b>Entryway...</b><br />
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<b>Half wall between upper and lower levels...</b></div>
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<b>That's just "a little" taste of it all. I have stuff everywhere...every room of the house.</b></div>
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<b>Even the bathrooms get decorated.</b></div>
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<b>Do you decorate every room of your house?<br />Do you set up more than one tree?<br />What are your favorite decorating traditions?<br />I hope you all have a wonderful time preparing for the upcoming holiday season!</b></div>
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<b>Will try to post more during this joyous season!</b></div>
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<b>Merry Christmas! </b></div>
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Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-88929949465858216212014-11-22T13:33:00.001-08:002014-11-22T13:33:30.230-08:00SNOWvember...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/WiUEnnfNKdk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<b>I know I already shared our snowy SNOWvember (November) picture with you.</b></div>
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<b>Here's a fun little video I took out our window early in the month.</b></div>
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<b>Enjoy! </b></div>
Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-4487744011776087632014-11-19T06:16:00.003-08:002014-11-19T06:16:43.714-08:00Oh the weather outside is frightful...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vy4K4W5sVwnIeHWepe93C0RQ8644Cj7V7SvU7WNKSmI-5hjJHSCKInxNa0Yp6pOBz83FtBLcNV00UiNkZtxiE-oyQyBDd6cRSxjRKt0OCPO1GSVigdXNF_J1EwywXVN01x-xS0qg2GtW/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vy4K4W5sVwnIeHWepe93C0RQ8644Cj7V7SvU7WNKSmI-5hjJHSCKInxNa0Yp6pOBz83FtBLcNV00UiNkZtxiE-oyQyBDd6cRSxjRKt0OCPO1GSVigdXNF_J1EwywXVN01x-xS0qg2GtW/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>This isn't the way it's supposed to be.</b><br />
<b>It's November for goodness sake.</b><br />
<b>"I don't remember having this much snow and these bitter temperatures before Thanksgiving in...FOREVER!" my husband cries!</b><br />
<b>This "IS" typical Michigan winter weather...</b><br />
<b>But not "NOVEMBER" weather. </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VQFRIOZgd6w5mD5Up06T5mJcJd8QGe1UUFUk-lfF5KOByi69cn6-_k3-q-YDFZ12FToBk-41Qqu-AieWTOB6Pzbpip4GrHDvOTsGxZ8SyM41celHKI9Gj8Vr8z7y4QWT4AYNuK_2nqmZ/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VQFRIOZgd6w5mD5Up06T5mJcJd8QGe1UUFUk-lfF5KOByi69cn6-_k3-q-YDFZ12FToBk-41Qqu-AieWTOB6Pzbpip4GrHDvOTsGxZ8SyM41celHKI9Gj8Vr8z7y4QWT4AYNuK_2nqmZ/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>These pictures don't really do justice to the "damage"...as this was pretty early on.</b></div>
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<b>We first got about 8 inches, then another 6 or 7...</b></div>
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<b>They say another "dumping" is coming tonight or tomorrow.</b></div>
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<b>Possibly 4-7 inches more. </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFqveR5gOLusyzL8wFaNJv3YJzzBXkHZeNfsmdPrgpIM-BJPmOLcRaEmSyGKNh-i9yFcEwVV0LozlZwrpBlCpDZvtf1wjVPTWpR15ymPuz2BJwk0TFEuptKh8WB3K_U40gRF1-G_61Ujr/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFqveR5gOLusyzL8wFaNJv3YJzzBXkHZeNfsmdPrgpIM-BJPmOLcRaEmSyGKNh-i9yFcEwVV0LozlZwrpBlCpDZvtf1wjVPTWpR15ymPuz2BJwk0TFEuptKh8WB3K_U40gRF1-G_61Ujr/s1600/003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>I have to say, I do enjoy it when I don't have to go anywhere (I work from home)...</b></div>
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<b>But when I "have" to go out...to the store, to church, to the boys' schools, events...</b></div>
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<b>It's pretty uninviting.</b></div>
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<b>I don't see well at night to drive, much less in whiteout conditions. </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnADb6vUe5HRUu81usXHArrYZs-7QNeabuNb-0s__MUi7PMTnpjHYy8vnzt0Ct18y7iKEUoguAmeegUjbYz0ytPv8zhUpN3XiYVqr3Ua7uK4Z07rFsP2398iNep2HvUXMFziZausWW8Z6R/s1600/10606620_10152535225107087_7654812102629815386_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnADb6vUe5HRUu81usXHArrYZs-7QNeabuNb-0s__MUi7PMTnpjHYy8vnzt0Ct18y7iKEUoguAmeegUjbYz0ytPv8zhUpN3XiYVqr3Ua7uK4Z07rFsP2398iNep2HvUXMFziZausWW8Z6R/s1600/10606620_10152535225107087_7654812102629815386_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>I guess my only complaint is that when the snow starts so early, we don't get to enjoy fall, my favorite season, near long enough. It makes our already long winters, even longer.</b><br />
<b>But it is what it is, right?<br />We are healthy, stocked up on supplies, and our snowblower is working hard!</b><br />
<b>We're all in this together, right? Bring it! </b></div>
Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-56524836886866924702014-10-11T21:43:00.000-07:002014-10-11T21:49:27.743-07:00This and that...early October happenings...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTResH2hR8OVzA-3em68kN4xWLt5WwjUQHGP4AsmSqjKYZjxKSZ8id07kgMUkEpcNnzyK4BX2NYvKF5icJlQ0indEhxEacO3SqKHwNkT8t2kjDCYg7tHYoPKrNCF2sVbdsXb4BgZZhsPrp/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTResH2hR8OVzA-3em68kN4xWLt5WwjUQHGP4AsmSqjKYZjxKSZ8id07kgMUkEpcNnzyK4BX2NYvKF5icJlQ0indEhxEacO3SqKHwNkT8t2kjDCYg7tHYoPKrNCF2sVbdsXb4BgZZhsPrp/s1600/001.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>We are just plugging right along. Life seems to just move more swiftly along the older you get.</b></div>
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<b>We are so blessed. One of our more recent blessings has been the addition to our family of sweet Katarina Blue...our part Russian Blue kitty.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjthATn-JFVm-qh8LKVxr63pQL8XfX4qXv8bz8WtLk-_eLAZEIc20-u5BG-sfOlCBdXBuXNR7XzypEveSPvlEOvyzAUjFmnfTnH1xjGUozaL_gxL3ibVG8QlK_GROeTGPNw-qTXuQ1Vjb/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjthATn-JFVm-qh8LKVxr63pQL8XfX4qXv8bz8WtLk-_eLAZEIc20-u5BG-sfOlCBdXBuXNR7XzypEveSPvlEOvyzAUjFmnfTnH1xjGUozaL_gxL3ibVG8QlK_GROeTGPNw-qTXuQ1Vjb/s1600/002.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>For those that follow my blog, you probably remember that our former fur-baby Oreo always slept in this little box-bed that Nate made seven years ago. Sweet Oreo slept in that bed for the full seven years he was with us.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ay6stHTcCBlMKsKUWOx2V6zfxi8S9-lDq_bE2hc9-J38Z5R3HCd1qqYvjABtQwh8pFw1-4JtdQKpPg9vqneWfndoPIKb7f2zuxqnGdB80H-PSPT_kaZKoa5qafGjQxu0m2Z6OAfouzDD/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ay6stHTcCBlMKsKUWOx2V6zfxi8S9-lDq_bE2hc9-J38Z5R3HCd1qqYvjABtQwh8pFw1-4JtdQKpPg9vqneWfndoPIKb7f2zuxqnGdB80H-PSPT_kaZKoa5qafGjQxu0m2Z6OAfouzDD/s1600/003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>When he passed on, the box went to the basement. However, when we adopted Katarina, Nate brought the box back up. I really didn't think she'd go into it. But look where sweet Katarina is sleeping!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6BXwGWjpMsYbt9-ro59Qs-QXIhW0jLIuRdj_lJykrJAvq3JBfkJWXglje46jSkCiewyYFEAS7JN5a5iz-DkqhNRPa8PX941O3ybPe19kf6Lfxqr4wvlH8sAO5ISM5c4NGPEa1oiiqsuwV/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6BXwGWjpMsYbt9-ro59Qs-QXIhW0jLIuRdj_lJykrJAvq3JBfkJWXglje46jSkCiewyYFEAS7JN5a5iz-DkqhNRPa8PX941O3ybPe19kf6Lfxqr4wvlH8sAO5ISM5c4NGPEa1oiiqsuwV/s1600/004.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Yep! Nate is thrilled that she has reclaimed the box-bed! Sweet girl.</b></div>
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<b>This kitty-girl has brought so much joy to us. Our home was so empty after sweet Oreo passed. And now it's filled with kitty love (and kitty fur) again. I snapped this picture as she was climbing on me and I called her name and as she looked at me, she must've blinked as the flash went off. Isn't it adorable?!?!</b></div>
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<b>Most of you know I decorate custom cookies. And not much makes me more happy then new cutters! My momma scored these vintage cutters for me and brought them up to me today. What a great surprise!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VyzfRJVHIubXGoEfW91T9OM9ez-VdyJRkk6vFA2BpO1SgqU3JS8hRZUpDDwJR5uRRKnt-82luq3_yxQCeDFtlSiptW-IfAkBGwy_CBPtEdg6a1KK-MPL4vU6mlBCrB8xvIxXyRCLmGJK/s1600/14months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VyzfRJVHIubXGoEfW91T9OM9ez-VdyJRkk6vFA2BpO1SgqU3JS8hRZUpDDwJR5uRRKnt-82luq3_yxQCeDFtlSiptW-IfAkBGwy_CBPtEdg6a1KK-MPL4vU6mlBCrB8xvIxXyRCLmGJK/s1600/14months.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>I haven't posted any hair updates like I had been. It's been 14 (very long) months since I started growing out my pixie. Here is a side-by-side of where I was 14 months ago...and where I am today. I think it could have been a little longer, except I had a few scissor-happy gals who trimmed it a couple times. But we're getting there. It's progress!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MQWX0HULFhA-7GQoOP3V_6j0zDblvvmz52IJ14vSwwLbrITo8dKGiHdjYnSD1aoPtGBGIqLs4ozeDWmYj8Ty6aOSbOP8uW8pVDiCJyZb7t3F9_mCBaxwZtg6g8CNO9jQHgUUUE3pJ4Me/s1600/sneakpeak1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MQWX0HULFhA-7GQoOP3V_6j0zDblvvmz52IJ14vSwwLbrITo8dKGiHdjYnSD1aoPtGBGIqLs4ozeDWmYj8Ty6aOSbOP8uW8pVDiCJyZb7t3F9_mCBaxwZtg6g8CNO9jQHgUUUE3pJ4Me/s1600/sneakpeak1.jpg" height="320" width="245" /></a></div>
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<b>I've been working on a big cookie order for some special people.</b></div>
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<b>For those who don't follow my blog, check out my Sweet Ivy Confections blog:</b></div>
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<b><a href="http://sweetivyconfections.blogspot.com/">http://sweetivyconfections.blogspot.com/</a></b></div>
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<b>Or look me up on Facebook:</b></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Ivy-Confections/247776648584544">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Ivy-Confections/247776648584544</a></b></div>
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<b>I'm also on Twitter:</b></div>
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<b>@Sweet_Ivy_Conf</b></div>
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<b>And Instagram:</b></div>
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<b>sweetivyconfections</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPCVF7YB7OGNsfV-cL3XlXhRNS4EPttVnbqDdMVaVEiDo6VjwCrvZZ_Eq_sjGH40a25XEtT8RGKoNghPu8rty5hoYvpLxRirvBO9RdTsMxPoakb1IrICIIMNlUcJVwX2Dajdfm2rzdn2C/s1600/sneakpeak2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPCVF7YB7OGNsfV-cL3XlXhRNS4EPttVnbqDdMVaVEiDo6VjwCrvZZ_Eq_sjGH40a25XEtT8RGKoNghPu8rty5hoYvpLxRirvBO9RdTsMxPoakb1IrICIIMNlUcJVwX2Dajdfm2rzdn2C/s1600/sneakpeak2.jpg" height="267" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>These are just a few sneak peaks of what I've been doing.</b></div>
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<b>I can't share the full pictures yet because the folks who are getting the cookies, don't know they're getting the cookies!</b></div>
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<b>Today, my mom, sister, and I went thrifting.</b></div>
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<b>It...is...a...thrill.</b></div>
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<b>We go crazy thrifting. It's like finding treasure. We have a lot of great thrift stores around here.</b></div>
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<b>I ended up with:</b></div>
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<b>5 sweaters</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>2 dresses</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>2 blouses</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>3 scarves</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1 headband</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1 necklace</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1 make-up bag</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1 pair of shoes</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1 coffee cup</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>2 vintage coffee mugs</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>2 vintage cookbooks</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1 vintage ice cream scoop</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>ALL THIS...FOR A GRAND TOTAL OF...are you ready for this?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Drum-roll...<br />Less than $30.00!!!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Can you believe it?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Neither can I!!!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5692eY_RkgjmZECxteFFrMOWvAHpmYt0VH-s1Sb8l4CrEarUvxl56s9GM_908ysmlGXsrfwMwoKm2vWdJMEMEHW9ac1TOWO0yQtlurVOrkLNWVk23huWmwz5Kz4HO-4w2zXGQLRTZUtH/s1600/t2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5692eY_RkgjmZECxteFFrMOWvAHpmYt0VH-s1Sb8l4CrEarUvxl56s9GM_908ysmlGXsrfwMwoKm2vWdJMEMEHW9ac1TOWO0yQtlurVOrkLNWVk23huWmwz5Kz4HO-4w2zXGQLRTZUtH/s1600/t2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Here we are making our, "Can you believe how much stuff we bought?" faces.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>LOL!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpAS52RMfVI7rp9bWHh6e7HsxuohK-yE-F65PfRD-swYOrxsTzN9Lv_bLhFyGfnELALZnoWWqV6oPbBfjpDq-sf3aWRvviJBF2sOZ3sE7-xbwrtwwgxi3sLLsKoeMM-0e1_RojxIYt38I/s1600/t3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpAS52RMfVI7rp9bWHh6e7HsxuohK-yE-F65PfRD-swYOrxsTzN9Lv_bLhFyGfnELALZnoWWqV6oPbBfjpDq-sf3aWRvviJBF2sOZ3sE7-xbwrtwwgxi3sLLsKoeMM-0e1_RojxIYt38I/s1600/t3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Our haul in the trunk...</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDCEO1ib3UmCzT8S0CXCZPCCDpArV0nemeF1TBs7qtpu-17Gc4tRu1WfT3lrqHdIpR8vuM1LuIMvSStL0BwIkzFosN9jY-XGMXqYusGDqHgxb4DYcD3WaKWSioCO4hUy4RT44Wbku6t0n/s1600/t4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDCEO1ib3UmCzT8S0CXCZPCCDpArV0nemeF1TBs7qtpu-17Gc4tRu1WfT3lrqHdIpR8vuM1LuIMvSStL0BwIkzFosN9jY-XGMXqYusGDqHgxb4DYcD3WaKWSioCO4hUy4RT44Wbku6t0n/s1600/t4.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Our, "Our husbands are going to freak out" looks.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>LOL!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mvXYzCYg-Z0aCal59Vc98GIw24a2NBEAAujvknvlGiPgU-D1h2EbsGfhmHBfkWhZjponLXwYnyqKnaq52trzEVdK9oNIAGSzmv3cOEwOdlxETw5qGrx9ANO4n4mECPwx82Qv9SW2bqFe/s1600/t5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mvXYzCYg-Z0aCal59Vc98GIw24a2NBEAAujvknvlGiPgU-D1h2EbsGfhmHBfkWhZjponLXwYnyqKnaq52trzEVdK9oNIAGSzmv3cOEwOdlxETw5qGrx9ANO4n4mECPwx82Qv9SW2bqFe/s1600/t5.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Selfie!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Or is it a "groupie"?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Hehehe! </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzGEO5z86eg63bGqKWpGuvlt2hPA7X1Dxh-KIeSxL4k-cNxJG2SiksxlwbuK9vBgQTFYbd_JMtvJg_0i9JQj1Bip7DxQKwbuUDQurS-fo-hCOS2nvsAyTrQJFhWGnS_u3NFoSQjR9PYcW/s1600/meledit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzGEO5z86eg63bGqKWpGuvlt2hPA7X1Dxh-KIeSxL4k-cNxJG2SiksxlwbuK9vBgQTFYbd_JMtvJg_0i9JQj1Bip7DxQKwbuUDQurS-fo-hCOS2nvsAyTrQJFhWGnS_u3NFoSQjR9PYcW/s1600/meledit1.jpg" height="320" width="270" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Well, now that my hair's finally growing...I can finally get it in rollers!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Yay!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I was able to fit it in my hot rollers today.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>It was SO NICE to rock a different look!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I love curls!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvJYmmE24RizH7Bnjj0O-TRpnfotkdkhZUb2Dqxovz63QX1Njz1QnMY5OP6cwPwgzt8hvg0GqQ_qclTjnCKYiK3J2xGekfmRYe26DZDbviuq1IRVFYsqHiDavo2jydfVaE3qcHLzIMxJy/s1600/meledit3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvJYmmE24RizH7Bnjj0O-TRpnfotkdkhZUb2Dqxovz63QX1Njz1QnMY5OP6cwPwgzt8hvg0GqQ_qclTjnCKYiK3J2xGekfmRYe26DZDbviuq1IRVFYsqHiDavo2jydfVaE3qcHLzIMxJy/s1600/meledit3.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>...and a few edits for fun...</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJpKsdQFrXQcfuFQbQPO2e_5QTGh-RaE11i9jaKWHTf2rcHI2lB7_fnPFyy1NZRG8cFNnOK_6c0EmaDz6Ad1FuJP55Ftnkd4zpbMABbMMa1s5mBZANPSlrMJgtcaXuSAqGuJzkya6i1oc/s1600/meledit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJpKsdQFrXQcfuFQbQPO2e_5QTGh-RaE11i9jaKWHTf2rcHI2lB7_fnPFyy1NZRG8cFNnOK_6c0EmaDz6Ad1FuJP55Ftnkd4zpbMABbMMa1s5mBZANPSlrMJgtcaXuSAqGuJzkya6i1oc/s1600/meledit2.jpg" height="234" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Well, I think that's about it for now.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Between working full time, going to school full time, baking, and keeping up with the family...I don't blog as much as I used to. I do try to fit in at least a few a month though.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope this finds all of you happy and healthy!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have a blessed autumn! </b></div>
Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6313009283337618831.post-84066284573118446692014-09-26T05:02:00.001-07:002014-09-26T05:02:31.863-07:00A new baby in the family...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7EiHC2LfKBvlX4tcDmI0p_k9N_xyWbrePPTxEH-A3vJXYZLqD5l4pbNAQNbh74ZmTwAyfltL7F1koCac1eqifHnvPIdjscSeu58ynDEdc5ObgFY0aGu4a9kH7ucVkDDN6x2RxDjjptq3/s1600/peekaboo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7EiHC2LfKBvlX4tcDmI0p_k9N_xyWbrePPTxEH-A3vJXYZLqD5l4pbNAQNbh74ZmTwAyfltL7F1koCac1eqifHnvPIdjscSeu58ynDEdc5ObgFY0aGu4a9kH7ucVkDDN6x2RxDjjptq3/s1600/peekaboo.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>No...it's not what you think.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I'm not pregnant.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>No...we didn't adopt...</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Well, we didn't adopt a "real/human" baby.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX5GPsXmDx72cCEfCn-UwiqOA8N9XPhZFzKeR6JPcrNrXtGbtG2tyFxlcKB_As1cIz2FnRC8aTlHVimrv0TgkXkcZ3aS363z3gbVZAqt3fZX5oIh3furXqL_YBoIWcccCixsoAHIsKURK/s1600/nap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX5GPsXmDx72cCEfCn-UwiqOA8N9XPhZFzKeR6JPcrNrXtGbtG2tyFxlcKB_As1cIz2FnRC8aTlHVimrv0TgkXkcZ3aS363z3gbVZAqt3fZX5oIh3furXqL_YBoIWcccCixsoAHIsKURK/s1600/nap.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We did however adopt a sweet 3 year old kitty from the shelter and from the looks of it, she's already a perfect fit to our family and friends.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJmILgLvfmE8TEEoIkm69cz1QXiV7F-C-DFYvAnh2hk9VS2xsEQt7uCCk2XJg2ucgVNDYMwBZ520dWEH5EIA_3lCQX9nu3pcIZjKPLEuB-ZZkFUOg53HF9um2F0YOMKawNLFCJzFpis24o/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJmILgLvfmE8TEEoIkm69cz1QXiV7F-C-DFYvAnh2hk9VS2xsEQt7uCCk2XJg2ucgVNDYMwBZ520dWEH5EIA_3lCQX9nu3pcIZjKPLEuB-ZZkFUOg53HF9um2F0YOMKawNLFCJzFpis24o/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Katarina came to the shelter as a stray and had kittens while there.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMwssFsJAjBS_NseAGyuy5I-XuFw8dD7j6u3cNfoebh_ny831XxRZnvnw-mfcSlY_GxD4OY8dBdWt2u20MWtu6lA_CY06br5JHk2pD94Mzf7vNnVBypQQmOdeaZ2bkCCk-hRQzCPW278X/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMwssFsJAjBS_NseAGyuy5I-XuFw8dD7j6u3cNfoebh_ny831XxRZnvnw-mfcSlY_GxD4OY8dBdWt2u20MWtu6lA_CY06br5JHk2pD94Mzf7vNnVBypQQmOdeaZ2bkCCk-hRQzCPW278X/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>All of her sweet kittens were adopted out.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And then this past week, her "crate mate"/friend was also adopted, leaving this sweet girl all alone!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTSpvgIwxcIAP87vY2jsk8qr8i7SEo2UbAnJSJ9JQUwtQwStY3h9TT-2c0HB_R4qxm366HBJU2z5_M5OmxVmvcodynO4xmOI3Lo2Z3QCfaIsVD9t6OgXnliBLoUT5z2oIku7W3expJTsY/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTSpvgIwxcIAP87vY2jsk8qr8i7SEo2UbAnJSJ9JQUwtQwStY3h9TT-2c0HB_R4qxm366HBJU2z5_M5OmxVmvcodynO4xmOI3Lo2Z3QCfaIsVD9t6OgXnliBLoUT5z2oIku7W3expJTsY/s1600/003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Katarina is part Russian Blue and has a Tiger stripe tail.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRTQwznHXDr-tT5H1oKn-poLk2yorfOjPlw5QEkLdF0GLm7_zHsEcz7YD1NH1FNuD2KMHDTnSwhzoxlUGo8llaDXsW9gNJ5QzotDsfenPPpRl1Y_HJZ3PApFfWk29ZejxqqqfO7ia5ckZ/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRTQwznHXDr-tT5H1oKn-poLk2yorfOjPlw5QEkLdF0GLm7_zHsEcz7YD1NH1FNuD2KMHDTnSwhzoxlUGo8llaDXsW9gNJ5QzotDsfenPPpRl1Y_HJZ3PApFfWk29ZejxqqqfO7ia5ckZ/s1600/005.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>She is sweet and affectionate...but even at 3 years old...still has the spunk and playfulness of a kitten! The boys are in love with her!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqnEW_W4RgrZWFdUKfllwIThftmq49FWihcx1aXdA-mY5EKHKa0F1RIuE1_b4P-KcAWtyz7THpVtpI3FQlBHB3wYZ4aHQqn31C76edizmQ-qo2wHqH7eaq1GUkAJy0duVRnq_AA2Bv79P/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqnEW_W4RgrZWFdUKfllwIThftmq49FWihcx1aXdA-mY5EKHKa0F1RIuE1_b4P-KcAWtyz7THpVtpI3FQlBHB3wYZ4aHQqn31C76edizmQ-qo2wHqH7eaq1GUkAJy0duVRnq_AA2Bv79P/s1600/006.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>She seems to have adapted to our home/family quite well.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>On day 1 she was already eating, drinking, using her litter box, and exploring.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>She doesn't seem to have any bad habits, as of yet.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>So far, we've been able to trust her pretty well.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl0Mt-GO3GGRtfmjJcthX2dFMag5J65K-swKTlrkwQUan87Av3faomJsCxYybzGjqwzhqkhd7rdvjBgIubM0YiCN-kidTNCJjRqOX3_7d97819c-T0JVa0xs9lLPxhxKxG9kR8FfTqrJp/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl0Mt-GO3GGRtfmjJcthX2dFMag5J65K-swKTlrkwQUan87Av3faomJsCxYybzGjqwzhqkhd7rdvjBgIubM0YiCN-kidTNCJjRqOX3_7d97819c-T0JVa0xs9lLPxhxKxG9kR8FfTqrJp/s1600/011.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>On our end, we need to work on playing with her and tiring her out more before bedtime, LOL.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>She seems to want to get up and play each morning around 4:00 a.m.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuri1e5X5SFcKqE5GunnqU1r8T-Q-3NZ1Mty1LfKmr95grhlUL1b2VgJb52ZSKPqjo-tzkF109t8BXBhOrrXMGEnh6xdWYoce-dLuRKjbqKHhEpzHkFc6Vdoxzh9cFqsNSkvKx_vz-Pc3U/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuri1e5X5SFcKqE5GunnqU1r8T-Q-3NZ1Mty1LfKmr95grhlUL1b2VgJb52ZSKPqjo-tzkF109t8BXBhOrrXMGEnh6xdWYoce-dLuRKjbqKHhEpzHkFc6Vdoxzh9cFqsNSkvKx_vz-Pc3U/s1600/012.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>When I play with her around 11:00 p.m. she seems to settle in nicely for a good night's sleep...so I need to make that my goal.</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>She kind of likes to get her days and nights mixed up like a baby...napping all day and staying up at night. I keep telling my boys they need to play more, snuggle less, haha!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0cLouLvFCwu0HMBh0Us5TGH61iTqWv1FId56Lg79sOJ9mQglF16T_xQq8Blf7NqYO1xziY4pCbkiBzeLTztVN6TmCTIgoTe2rIzLINjVKX2LS4Qh5M6mhkUQp6ioizyVc5-qQi5_YXhK/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0cLouLvFCwu0HMBh0Us5TGH61iTqWv1FId56Lg79sOJ9mQglF16T_xQq8Blf7NqYO1xziY4pCbkiBzeLTztVN6TmCTIgoTe2rIzLINjVKX2LS4Qh5M6mhkUQp6ioizyVc5-qQi5_YXhK/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>When the boys are home...</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDqc3bH-ocpJaTCDYU4V7Ru6IbPnZJgFXGXG8DgxhsSmQAf3QIHHTlUJFoUdDYA9GkBdGznmTIxMCF7qCRJ4_QSa1OFGaxOhBKvgkCDjgD1k2LiKYNDZW_SL9vIPaSKqGcKG_YXMyAxRG/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDqc3bH-ocpJaTCDYU4V7Ru6IbPnZJgFXGXG8DgxhsSmQAf3QIHHTlUJFoUdDYA9GkBdGznmTIxMCF7qCRJ4_QSa1OFGaxOhBKvgkCDjgD1k2LiKYNDZW_SL9vIPaSKqGcKG_YXMyAxRG/s1600/003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>You can pretty much always find Katarina on top of one of them snuggling!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaQcuUsAcm38sBw80J2EhZ6b6CR32OKRfGq-xMGU6U-eWGLx169NbIpmBxlE1c6g-Ugo1nftwNQzrxzTZr_KNIfXcnKB3IYTSIQ03zpuRsTrM-E7OmemG4vMIHFmEVZpBVCqStqM-5X5j/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaQcuUsAcm38sBw80J2EhZ6b6CR32OKRfGq-xMGU6U-eWGLx169NbIpmBxlE1c6g-Ugo1nftwNQzrxzTZr_KNIfXcnKB3IYTSIQ03zpuRsTrM-E7OmemG4vMIHFmEVZpBVCqStqM-5X5j/s1600/004.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>This photo cracked me up. Jamie keeps his Bible on this shelf and she jumped on top of it...so...I've entitled it, "Standing on the Word"...hehe!</b></div>
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<b>We are so happy with our new addition.</b></div>
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<b>If you are ever looking to add a fur-baby to your family...be it a cat or a dog, look no further than your local human society or rescue shelter. There are so many pets looking and waiting for their "fur-ever" home/family.</b></div>
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<b>We love you Katarina! </b></div>
Melodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10196584202223839316noreply@blogger.com0