tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-274536372357762252024-02-07T11:05:35.569-08:00Raising MenReal Learning. Real Food. Real Life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-18637067403537465982014-07-31T06:32:00.001-07:002014-07-31T06:32:22.856-07:00God's Creation<div><br></div>Just a little taste of what we have been doing with the start of a new school year. :)<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvhUba6pJv1lJIpL1Av65gFoC0g0drr7PknoiwS1__1jgwIwrvg-Xf4Jo85XO1U1lj4FZZt5-Hbt_JmbGsiPAv6SLYiDk68qM15qHkocwBlnwWpZnuyubwOnLO6RPfu2EDsZnfC8BKg/s640/blogger-image--911824384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvhUba6pJv1lJIpL1Av65gFoC0g0drr7PknoiwS1__1jgwIwrvg-Xf4Jo85XO1U1lj4FZZt5-Hbt_JmbGsiPAv6SLYiDk68qM15qHkocwBlnwWpZnuyubwOnLO6RPfu2EDsZnfC8BKg/s640/blogger-image--911824384.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxLaWsyPsss3aaVbekYxRfkFpw0ZY9yUG3NR3lpLcKl40Zzjy_0mG67bFvIlO5bLFg35f-ydoOM5_SxF7SstLddXsD5EG6CwCglnYKAdMcJkZ-KzuzmgR3HQle3NFrGzF0Y1suyxXDQ/s640/blogger-image--1298933732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxLaWsyPsss3aaVbekYxRfkFpw0ZY9yUG3NR3lpLcKl40Zzjy_0mG67bFvIlO5bLFg35f-ydoOM5_SxF7SstLddXsD5EG6CwCglnYKAdMcJkZ-KzuzmgR3HQle3NFrGzF0Y1suyxXDQ/s640/blogger-image--1298933732.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0F9rzT9rV5kumGpdHiRf3zBDEMIACpXPw9SGlHPSfNAGk8RTjiYGf2qbVoobyr9srsZXRNtyuUHQElfafeKbhloqPbehLQ-vJCDM-wc8TDhyphenhyphenqUsM3z2kMv2X80Xonic6KpaTjDmpWw/s640/blogger-image-1819529521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0F9rzT9rV5kumGpdHiRf3zBDEMIACpXPw9SGlHPSfNAGk8RTjiYGf2qbVoobyr9srsZXRNtyuUHQElfafeKbhloqPbehLQ-vJCDM-wc8TDhyphenhyphenqUsM3z2kMv2X80Xonic6KpaTjDmpWw/s640/blogger-image-1819529521.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3PwB0ObBBOuHiVxywM_K-GbpGB8lZknXwXc-6iBCnI2TiJa5qHkrhRidRbdoJ3_Tfiy7ZKQ3DHUrmkKc3-PGzcrzebYAG80i50mPT9WyTJfhaq_gRqzZHmc7NbBqUwRO6XpwP0Nyshw/s640/blogger-image--599703011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3PwB0ObBBOuHiVxywM_K-GbpGB8lZknXwXc-6iBCnI2TiJa5qHkrhRidRbdoJ3_Tfiy7ZKQ3DHUrmkKc3-PGzcrzebYAG80i50mPT9WyTJfhaq_gRqzZHmc7NbBqUwRO6XpwP0Nyshw/s640/blogger-image--599703011.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtPQI6WbrsCKkBJFDT0EerAhaHD_h9EV-ct4UWuPC1JBd90kWpNN31GkbtVcbTx_UejUJRew7hlT4aYTKArtA8FOAIRHzlAtSE5eGe4cYMlebJBBZp6A_Gr86jDoQ-6mCCYZFPzXBjFg/s640/blogger-image-1696652151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtPQI6WbrsCKkBJFDT0EerAhaHD_h9EV-ct4UWuPC1JBd90kWpNN31GkbtVcbTx_UejUJRew7hlT4aYTKArtA8FOAIRHzlAtSE5eGe4cYMlebJBBZp6A_Gr86jDoQ-6mCCYZFPzXBjFg/s640/blogger-image-1696652151.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-38044548204314229152014-07-01T18:28:00.001-07:002014-07-01T18:28:35.588-07:00Our God is Awesome!We just had our best camping trip ever and it was our first since my husband and I have really committed our lives to God. It was beautiful, peaceful, enlightening, and so relaxing. I am so full of God's love and joy lately that I just want to shout it out! Our lives were never terrible but we could use some work in certain areas and I am telling you; ever since we have been actively including God in every aspect of our lives, it has been amazing! We are a lot less stressed out about things, we spend so much more quality time together and far less mindlessly plugged into our electronics. Our relationships are thriving, and we are meeting some incredible people in our new hometown. We trust and love our Lord with all our being and He is taking good care of us. If you have not found Him yet, I am telling you now is the time. Our God is so good and we know that no matter what comes along we will rock it because He is by our side! I hope you also get to enjoy his amazing creation a good deal this summer because it is truly breathtaking and therapeutic! <div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFA3W9R1mIFgjNFd7-p6i9OXmzBj8RWL1N1pltlEnH6kRLDwrSspElZxnEtMqJqBrwmPW406VyhOXvr3_bHDnoyw0ggwQMNzRTYg73mEtqOIauvmAzakMtDxq9hml9nHppRJQc4vlaQ/s640/blogger-image--227003686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFA3W9R1mIFgjNFd7-p6i9OXmzBj8RWL1N1pltlEnH6kRLDwrSspElZxnEtMqJqBrwmPW406VyhOXvr3_bHDnoyw0ggwQMNzRTYg73mEtqOIauvmAzakMtDxq9hml9nHppRJQc4vlaQ/s640/blogger-image--227003686.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">How can this not leave you feeling so peaceful!? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJmv_o3SSmGASWuav8NaKIi5GkTGOSrvohQWJXWmOe-TO6F9FrBOg-9Q_CG4cPAV7LdibG1WT5L05p8zKLCAIneuAfZujjdZS3Vt-LaHEao6QEElUCd9SRmVE7omaGV45VE3eyZw4LA/s640/blogger-image-2084922252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJmv_o3SSmGASWuav8NaKIi5GkTGOSrvohQWJXWmOe-TO6F9FrBOg-9Q_CG4cPAV7LdibG1WT5L05p8zKLCAIneuAfZujjdZS3Vt-LaHEao6QEElUCd9SRmVE7omaGV45VE3eyZw4LA/s640/blogger-image-2084922252.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Have a blessed week and if you are venturing out over the holiday weekend, be careful! </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-1189586154026231442014-06-29T16:44:00.001-07:002014-06-29T16:44:23.813-07:00A little more time!So my blog, once again... Clearly fell by the wayside, we have since changed our lives a little bit though and spend less time mindlessly sitting at the computer or watching television. We fellowship more, we pray more, we sit down and talk as well as do Bible studies together. We are starting to spend more time outdoors exploring God's creation, and appreciating every little thing He does for us. We have learned to listen to Him and trust Him and it has brought about some major changes in our lives! My husband is no longer active duty Army, and even though we were dreaming of heading west, we prayed and listened and remain in the North Country, but we have moved a little further away from all the madness and closer to God and some amazing people! As I have been sitting here praying over many things lately, I have deciced that I want to continue sharing a little slice of our life with you. Hopefully I have more time to maintain this blog now that we are a little more unplugged from the mindless surfing. <div><br></div><div>We are still homeschooling though on summer break currently; my husband has a great new job where he is in charge! I have become so close to our Lord and Savior and have officially accepted Him and devoted my life to him in which I was baptized last week! It was amazing! I will also embark on a new journey this fall in Grad school! So many positive changes! </div><div><br></div><div>So stay tuned as we make so many changes to better our lives and join us in prayer over my educational journey, as well as the next step which will be finding our forever home in the next couple of years and building a small farm. We are taking things slow and know that God already has a plan, but prayers are always appreciated. </div><div><br></div><div>"See" you soon and God Bless!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-7905360154458813922013-10-28T11:50:00.001-07:002013-10-28T11:52:05.289-07:00Yo-Crunch Pumpkin Pie ParfaitWhat can I say, I'm a "pumpkinhead!" I'm obsessed with all things pumpkin spice that come out during Autumn; I am pretty much drawn to anything in the store that has to do with pumpkins; and here is our latest find.
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With only 120 calories when you use the topping (90 if you don't) this is a delightful guilt free snack. Let's face it, most fall and winter treats aren't exactly kind to our waistlines. I had been following Weight Watchers from January-September and I have successfully lost over 50lbs; October-December are my hardest months so I allow myself some slack, but if I am not careful I will put a lot of that weight back on! I'm happy to see there are healthier options out there now for some of my favorite flavors.
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What is your favorite pumpkin spice goody or recipe?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-68966390800956574792013-10-22T18:27:00.000-07:002013-10-22T18:29:31.635-07:00John HancockWe read about the declaration of independence today and we made a quill pen and some ink from berries. The boys really enjoyed this activity. It's quite simple if you'd like to try it yourself, simply cut the end of a feather at an angle and cut a slit in the point. Squeeze berries to get juice out into a small dish and add a little salt and white vinegar and stir well. Enjoy!
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OuNSEOEB8Ec4oDgnsNEBGjW5AZ7OGkhIzBwowQfVsaWe31a1Eq1qB5YbN44rilUBUI6oMXGIaMFhCIkMuGtUqs8i_1GskarplT0RxUc-vrLUysJWOMCEVojEgW2cEicIeqzbNyfl0Q/s1600/1383435_179703018887043_706031071_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OuNSEOEB8Ec4oDgnsNEBGjW5AZ7OGkhIzBwowQfVsaWe31a1Eq1qB5YbN44rilUBUI6oMXGIaMFhCIkMuGtUqs8i_1GskarplT0RxUc-vrLUysJWOMCEVojEgW2cEicIeqzbNyfl0Q/s320/1383435_179703018887043_706031071_n.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-59485792765068745232013-10-02T14:40:00.000-07:002013-10-02T14:40:21.160-07:00Give me butter!Even before we started eliminating more and more processed foods, one thing we never ate (well at least for several years now) is margarine. We use BUTTER! It may have more fat but it is real! One of our lessons this week after learning bout the pilgrims was to make our own butter! I used a recipe from <a href="http://www.fresh-eggs-daily.com/">Fresh Eggs Daily</a> (great blog, you should check it out.) as well as her buttermilk biscuit recipe because of course, when you make butter you also get fresh and delicious buttermilk! The boys made their own portions by shaking the cream and a bit of salt in baby food jars, they had a blast and really enjoyed eating something they made all on their own. I of course used my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000ALFC6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0000ALFC6&linkCode=as2&tag=raimen-20">kitchenaid</a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=raimen-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0000ALFC6" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> :)
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If you have never made your own butter I suggest you give it a whirl at least once, there is nothing like it! And I shamefully have never made buttermilk biscuits from scratch and must say it will be the only way I will make them from now on!
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyh3i2WwYMcopoxa6V2dx9LoKkLSLqHkES_cbjAGRiriUd4lfay0cjPhsswi461VuOeZKI4yl6q6WO9f8XKguw9-0NjkXgeNZ1U8gqpJyg_FGTIgjFzJcQ1GmzLR6pKK3aVxVKXIo6tQ/s1600/1377209_451082655009702_714641325_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyh3i2WwYMcopoxa6V2dx9LoKkLSLqHkES_cbjAGRiriUd4lfay0cjPhsswi461VuOeZKI4yl6q6WO9f8XKguw9-0NjkXgeNZ1U8gqpJyg_FGTIgjFzJcQ1GmzLR6pKK3aVxVKXIo6tQ/s400/1377209_451082655009702_714641325_n.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-15261726274010142172013-09-18T09:40:00.000-07:002013-09-18T09:43:17.689-07:00Summer BreakI always do this, I always let my blogs fall into the black hole of the internet. Life gets busy though and my priorities are my children, not my social media. But I would like to take some time to revive this project so that I have something that even if only for a few minutes or a few times a week, is something I call mine. My life revolves around my husband and my sons; I am a homemaker after all and that IS my job. I take pride in it though and I love what I do, I however often forget to take time for myself. I usually do something mindless like watch a movie or play a computer game; I need that to change. I need to do more reading, and more writing! :) Here are a few goodies from this week, we toured the local cider mill yesterday and the boys were fascinated! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMg8muMZW8uWNZpMgRHCq6kj2xvzJrjjDnownYcJ0rfdRn_t86gD8__uX2DuUTgPZ2TGpUR0TJJtRCC0ktxpFKbWAG1F4lWFLXt1trsrjP6CdxXfUtS3ZKkAFhwHT94hiDqdgRjBtX-w/s1600/549053_445011472283487_196794113_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMg8muMZW8uWNZpMgRHCq6kj2xvzJrjjDnownYcJ0rfdRn_t86gD8__uX2DuUTgPZ2TGpUR0TJJtRCC0ktxpFKbWAG1F4lWFLXt1trsrjP6CdxXfUtS3ZKkAFhwHT94hiDqdgRjBtX-w/s200/549053_445011472283487_196794113_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2gMy08SttF2RS8B6qh2wVOjTmEOETn0xI9FUxLVWt96vDcA95NCr0VaJ8PaVzjULkxF3t8VOzO29kRhkaODsDYjqJFHVQh3lG7QnuAOFShT-TvXnaoKisFB-qQhQ5OsutyiIV6deZA/s1600/994608_444771425640825_258520440_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2gMy08SttF2RS8B6qh2wVOjTmEOETn0xI9FUxLVWt96vDcA95NCr0VaJ8PaVzjULkxF3t8VOzO29kRhkaODsDYjqJFHVQh3lG7QnuAOFShT-TvXnaoKisFB-qQhQ5OsutyiIV6deZA/s200/994608_444771425640825_258520440_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-j-nuy5YVL7b4mgqXDZkc3Sh4bXierD5kcIv6rXwLOIDp2nykkn89SZSR0MP1J-BlxJueOCJmRQQc3jrkuMvAIX6Bibsr0GboNOwp-Lk3C0JLRhoqD-GAniz6AyUA90nlL6ul4dNbg/s1600/1209218_444772125640755_990314056_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-j-nuy5YVL7b4mgqXDZkc3Sh4bXierD5kcIv6rXwLOIDp2nykkn89SZSR0MP1J-BlxJueOCJmRQQc3jrkuMvAIX6Bibsr0GboNOwp-Lk3C0JLRhoqD-GAniz6AyUA90nlL6ul4dNbg/s200/1209218_444772125640755_990314056_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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I hope you all had a great summer, we sure did! Ended it with a spontaneous trip to Mass for my birthday, toured Boston, Salem and caught a Red Sox game at Fenway! :) I will devote some posts to that separately. We also went camping and enjoyed the outdoors plenty. We are now back into homeschool full swing since Mid-August and all our fall activities are about to begin. I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you!
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Have a great day and God Bless!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-24951098838908394082013-06-05T18:56:00.003-07:002013-06-05T18:56:49.132-07:00So What Wednesdays This week I am saying SO WHAT if...
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I did nothing but enjoy this day with my children.
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I have been doing so well this week that today I just said the heck with it and we went out for dinner, I did order of the Weight Watcher's menu!
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I still can't stop thinking about Arizona!
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My efforts with certain people are going unappreciated, at least I feel good about what I am doing and at the end of the day if you don't see the good in it then it sounds like a personal problem. Some people need to learn to stop living in the past!
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And that's all I've got this week! hehe What are you saying SO WHAT to?
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<center><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/search/label/So%20What" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1129.photobucket.com/albums/m504/diamonddolldesign/sowhatidew_zps90902df1.png" alt="So What Wednesday" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-75433791592588193122013-06-04T15:50:00.001-07:002013-06-04T15:51:23.999-07:00Fire Station - The ultimate boys' field trip!So we met with a different homeschool group yesterday to attend a field trip at the fire station. First we met for a picnic and some playtime at the playground and then we proceeded to tour the fire station, complete with a round in the simulator trailer. My youngest wasn't entirely impressed but my 7 year old was absolutely loving it! The firefighters were very friendly and helpful, they talked to the kids about fire safety and when and when not to use 911; they showed them the different trucks and described the tools with them and answered questions. The children got a chance to hop onto the trucks and the ladder as well (when it was on the ground of course.) I was very pleased with the afternoon, my boys learned a lot and really enjoyed themselves. At the end each child received a goody back with stickers and information as well as the traditional plastic firefighter hat. Before we joined everyone for the field trip we made our weekly stop at the library where both boys picked out some books about firefighters and fire trucks, and when we got home my 7 year old suited up in his hat and the badge he was given and read the books they picked out. They really made an impression on him and that makes me smile!
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-54848550593332417492013-06-03T19:16:00.000-07:002013-06-03T19:16:18.971-07:00Accent - Blog Prompt<b>Do you have an accent? </b>
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I do not have an accent, nothing strong or "exotic." However when I first moved to the U.S, yes to Americans I did have a Canadian accent, eh? But now that I have been here for almost twenty years I have an American accent to everyone back home! I of course don't think I sound any different but I think that's what happens when you live somewhere for so long. I've heard plenty of people moving to Europe and picking up accents there. I must say I'm partial to British and southern accents! ;)
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<center><a href="http://oneminutewriter.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr226/cbethblog/OneMinuteWriterButton2.jpg" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-31986431185530112582013-06-02T18:02:00.002-07:002013-06-02T18:02:36.728-07:00Pizza Cups, Yum-o!So I tried another of <a href="http://www.emilybites.com/">Emily's</a> recipes tonight and once again we all LOVED it! It is listed under her appetizers but with a light leafy salad it was a perfect light dinner on a hot day. Everyone had enough to eat with a couple pizza cups and the salad. I absolutely love her website and her recipes, and the fact that she has all the WW points plus values on her recipes makes my life so much easier!
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<b>Pizza Cups</b>
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Source: Emily Bites Original
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Ingredients:
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2.5 oz fresh white mushrooms, diced
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20 slices turkey pepperoni, chopped
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½ cup pizza sauce (I used Classico Traditional Pizza Sauce and it was awesome)
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1 (11 oz) can Pillsbury Crusty French Loaf refrigerated dough
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1/3 c shredded 2% reduced fat Mozzarella cheese
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¼ - 1/3 teaspoon of Italian Seasoning
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Directions:
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1. Preheat the oven to 350. Lightly mist 8 cups in a standard muffin tin with cooking spray.
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2. Lightly mist a small skillet with cooking spray and bring over medium heat. Add diced mushrooms and cook for a few minutes until wilted/browned. Place the mushrooms in a medium bowl and add the chopped pepperoni slices and pizza sauce. Stir to combine and set aside.
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3. Open the package of French bread dough and lay the log of dough on a clean, dry surface. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal rounds. Using your hands or a rolling pin, press the dough pieces into 3-4” flat rounds. Press each round into a prepared cup in the muffin tin, forming the dough into a bowl shape and pressing it up the sides.
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4. Evenly distribute the pepperoni/mushroom mixture into each dough cup with a spoon. Sprinkle Mozzarella cheese over the top of each cup and follow with a pinch of Italian seasoning on each cup to taste.
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5. Bake for 16-18 minutes until bread cups start to brown on the edges and are crusty to the touch. Let cool 3-5 minutes before serving.
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Yields 8 cups. Weight Watchers Points Plus: 3 per cup (P+ calculated using the recipe builder on weightwatchers.com)
Nutrition Information per bread bowl from myfitnesspal.com: 124 calories, 20 g carbs, 3 g fat, 6 g protein, 1 g fiber
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTbOgL2CYhM8TJJIPs4kzz5acfe2TQbD9LamEkeo2f77X5vdAQBJwYFzFAkE-y3Z2y7EiKgHSMyl3BGVBKL0evYZP61nfCOtQxjAEOc_5qzq4gURtVqUuHKQT09gaWnouJw7VW4gpcww/s1600/dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTbOgL2CYhM8TJJIPs4kzz5acfe2TQbD9LamEkeo2f77X5vdAQBJwYFzFAkE-y3Z2y7EiKgHSMyl3BGVBKL0evYZP61nfCOtQxjAEOc_5qzq4gURtVqUuHKQT09gaWnouJw7VW4gpcww/s320/dinner.jpg" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-44913115253202145592013-06-01T17:59:00.002-07:002013-06-01T17:59:49.149-07:00What's in a name? - Blog Prompt<b>Do you like your name? Do you feel like it suits you? If you could change it, would you - and to what? </b>
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When I was younger I used to always say I'd change my name, I think for some reason I didn't like it. I can't really recall though nor can I recall what name I would have chosen. But today I am happy with my name, I do think it suits me. I mean then again just thinking of myself with any other name is just a little weird to me. I do have a pet peeve though of people calling me Mel, I only appreciate close friends and family calling me Mel. If I don't know you or we aren't exactly friends so to speak, do not call me Mel.
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<center><a href="http://oneminutewriter.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr226/cbethblog/OneMinuteWriterButton2.jpg" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-15325026704172048422013-05-29T08:58:00.001-07:002013-05-29T08:59:02.844-07:00So What WednesdaysThis week I am saying SO WHAT if...
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I worked my boys up for the farmer's market and then we didn't go even after the rain stopped. I was told there were no fruit yet and honestly my boys do not NEED whoopie pies.
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I have no desire to mend certain things. Everything happens for a reason, some things are blessings in disguise!
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I am having a hard time living in the now, I am really excited for our move next year! So many big changes! I am trying to cherish every day but I am definitely dreaming about that Arizona sun!
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I have been getting iced latte's a little more than I should lately, I'm staying within my WW points! hehe
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I still let my boys come to our bed when they have a bad dream or just need snuggles, they are going to grow up way too quickly! We have a king-sized bed, there is definitely enough room for my loves!
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So what are you saying SO WHAT to this week?
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<center><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/search/label/So%20What" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1129.photobucket.com/albums/m504/diamonddolldesign/sowhatidew_zps90902df1.png" alt="So What Wednesday" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-69188035685875391792013-05-26T17:28:00.002-07:002013-05-26T17:28:26.933-07:00Mission - Blog Prompt<b>Write about a mission you have accomplished. </b>
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The biggest mission I have accomplished recently is losing 35lbs in the past four and a half months! I am pretty darn proud of myself and while I still have just a little less than that to lose before I reach my first goal weight, I am confident that this time next year I will be at my final goal weight. I am following Weight Watchers and am trying very hard to discipline myself into exercising more and more, I have always had a hard time with that but I've done alright with it this time around. I attend WW meetings which is a great deal of support and my husband has been incredibly supportive as well; he's even changed his eating habits as has our whole family! I feel pretty good about myself for the first time in a long time.
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I didn't time myself this time because I really wanted to write down everything I wanted to say, I'm pretty proud of my accomplishment and love sharing it with others. What have you accomplished recently?
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<center><a href="http://oneminutewriter.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr226/cbethblog/OneMinuteWriterButton2.jpg" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-57736719259976986302013-05-24T18:42:00.000-07:002013-05-24T18:42:33.769-07:00Right Place, Right TimeI am so excited y'all! So we took the boys into the city today for lunch, some shopping and the science museum. And here we are on our way out when it was closing and a magazine caught my attention (they have all kinds of magazines, newspapers and flyers for people to grab on the way out) and right next to the magazine was a little postcard announcing a Knufflebunny Musical at one of the colleges here, starting this weekend and every weekend for the next month! *Squeel* We LOVE Mo Willems and my boys adore the Knufflebunny stories, so naturally I grabbed a card and of course my youngest wanted to hold onto it right away ;) and once I got into the car I got on their website to check ticket prices and lucky us they were not ridiculous! I told him I was going to buy tickets so the whole way home (over an hour) he was asking if we were going to buy the tickets now? lol I did order them once I got home and have printed them already. I cannot wait to take them! I get really excited when there is any type of event like this for my children (I've also taken them to two Max & Ruby plays.) There just aren't always many events for young children.
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If you have never read the Knufflebunny books (or any Mo Willems for that matter) I encourage you to pick some up! He's a great author! :)
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-24971933610659005342013-05-22T16:23:00.000-07:002013-05-22T16:26:19.369-07:00So What Wednesdays This week I am saying SO WHAT if...
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I am still not 100% back into my workout routine, I'm getting there.
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I have been buying myself clothes here and there, I deserve those cute smaller sizes.
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I just bought two antique Bibles, I LOVE antiques and who doesn't love a beautiful Bible?
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I am kind of relieved by certain recent events. I feel liberated!
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My son still has a few more sets of test prep to work on, he's got this stuff and once again the school district still doesn't let out for over a month!
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I already ordered his curriculum for the fall, I am so excited to flip through all that good stuff!
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What are YOU saying SO WHAT to this week?
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<center><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/search/label/So%20What" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1129.photobucket.com/albums/m504/diamonddolldesign/sowhatidew_zps90902df1.png" alt="So What Wednesday" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-85858830194624952482013-05-22T08:25:00.000-07:002013-05-22T08:26:21.678-07:00Continuing what I was saying yesterday...Someone posted this video today and I had actually seen the music video before but not this one, and it just goes right along with what I blogged about yesterday! PLEASE do not hold grudges, do not take anyone or anything for granted! Life is too precious and too short! I could not imagine losing a child! God bless his family!
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<a href="http://www.upworthy.com/this-kid-just-died-what-he-left-behind-is-wondtacular-rip?g=4">Video here</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-31157794263786127452013-05-21T19:19:00.001-07:002013-05-21T19:19:50.384-07:00Praise GodI'd just like to take some time to publicly praise our Lord! Life is pretty much as good as it can get right now; we had some major prayers answered last week, God is putting the right people in my life right now, and as I am learning and reading and praying - I am growing closer to Christ. We have so much to be thankful for and so much to look forward to in the months and year to come! I just pray that God is blessing you in the same way, and if he is not perhaps you need to seek him! Talk to him, he is always listening. If things are tough, pray! If things are good, praise! My heart aches so much for people around the world, shootings, stabbings, bombings, massive tornadoes! If you are alive and healthy right now, THANK GOD! If you have clothes, food, and a home; thank God! If you have a family that loves and supports you, thank God! Your life can never be that bad if you have breath in your lungs and loved ones around you! We all take so much for granted and that just makes us spoiled! Be thankful for what you do have and pray for those who have less than you, if you are in need of something, God will provide! We have recently changed our diets, and our activity level and we feel so much better, and know we are extending our lives for the sake of each other and our children. We are working on changing our surroundings inside our home, simplifying and minimizing... we are going to hold a fundraising yard sale for my husband's race and in the process blessing pancreatic cancer patients with the money we raise, and blessing our home with less clutter, which in turn makes our lives less cluttered! It is time to unplug from all these things and connect to each other in meaningful ways! More and more are we realizing that money and things are not important at all! My husband is getting out of the Army just short of retirement because that is how little it means to us, it is far more important to have him home with us than to send him off to war yet again and get all that extra money.
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Please, don't take anything or anyone for granted. Life is way too short. If you have hurt someone, make it right; if someone has hurt you, forgive them. And if you can bless someone else in any way, do it! You could make their whole day or even their month, or perhaps even turn their life around!
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-46835177032885328142013-05-20T18:34:00.003-07:002013-05-20T18:35:56.100-07:00Hospitals - Blog Prompt<b>What kinds of experiences have you had in hospitals, either good or bad? </b>
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When I think of hospitals, the first thoughts that come to mind are the births of my sons. So I actually have pretty good memories of hospitals. Two of the most amazing days of my life! I had great nurses, doctors and of course great visitors! Both my boys were born in different hospitals, in different states.
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<center><a href="http://oneminutewriter.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr226/cbethblog/OneMinuteWriterButton1smaller.jpg" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-63633909128338752132013-05-19T17:45:00.001-07:002013-05-19T17:46:20.455-07:00How I Spent My Summer - Blog PromptSo yesterday was a super busy day for our family; we had a scavenger hunt, art class, and went to the drive-in. So I did not have time to blog, I hope you all had as beautiful a day as we did! Today we were all so exhausted that we even missed church so I am not going to blog about what I had hoped to, I'm going to respond to another one minute blog prompt.
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<b>It's a beautiful summer day, and you are twelve years old.
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How do you spend the day? </b>
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When I was young, I didn't spend my days playing video games or surfing the net (of course we didn't have the net back then.) I spent my days outside; playing with my friends, swimming, going to the playground. We did so many things together, lemonade stands, crafts, went on adventures! Kids today are too reliant on electronics and I think it is very important for parents to step in and make sure it is not ruling their lives.
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I went over by a few seconds so I could finish my last thought. I'd love to hear how you spent your summer days as a child!
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-67170177491335710552013-05-17T17:20:00.002-07:002013-05-17T17:21:49.497-07:00Let's talk tablets (and e-readers)We live in a very electronic age, smartphones and tablets are a part of daily life. My husband and I remember when we were in high school and we actually hung out with our friends; our teenager sits around and texts his friends and talks to them on facebook. And people wonder what is wrong with the world, we've all become way too dependent on technology and not enough on one another!
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With that said, I'd like to talk to you about some of our favorite electronic vices. And I'd love to hear your opinions as well!
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<b>Kindle</b>
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This was our first purchase, I bought it for my husband before his last deployment. Much easier than lugging dozens of books around! We just have a basic model and we both enjoy reading on it, as does our oldest. I much prefer the anti-glare and "book-like" look of the original kindle, it is easy on the eyes. Some people cannot get used to an e-reader and much prefer to have that crisp book in their hands. As for myself I think I prefer an e-reader; it is less bulky and so easy to bookmark your spot. There are also SO many free kindle books available on amazon! This however, does not stop us from having an abundance of books in house however. Mostly children's books but my husband and I have a good collection as well. I do love the look of a bundle of books on the shelf! I have not tried a kindle fire or any of the other models, I had considered getting myself a kindle fire until my husband said I could get myself an ipad as a present. Bingo!
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<iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=raimen-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B007HCCNJU&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>
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<b>ipad</b>
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I absolutely love the apps in the app store so I was ecstatic to get my hands on one! We all use it as well, my husband uses it for web browsing as do I when I do not feel like sitting at the computer. I also use it for homeschool as there are endless educational apps out there. And I also have the kindle app installed on it, as well as a couple of children's book apps for my boys. I absolutely love <a href="http://www.farfaria.com/">FarFaria,</a> it is a monthly subscription children's book app and there are SO many stories available. Your child can read the stories himself or have them read to him; which is what my youngest does while I am doing lessons with Gavin. I highly recommend getting your hands on an ipad, you can do so much on it (you can even blog from it, there is a blogger app!) ;)
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I would love to hear about your favorite tablet/e-reader and some of your favorite apps!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-60038642211492325272013-05-16T04:32:00.003-07:002013-05-16T04:34:11.330-07:00A Helping HandA facebook page that I follow shared this earlier this morning and because I can understand the urgency in her situation I am dedicating my daily blog post to this poor, sweet woman. I encourage you to share it on your blog and social media sites, and before you jump in with questions and judgment please think carefully about what you say and how this all makes sense. Sadly on the facebook post several ran their mouths, only making them look like fools. Let's just help her find the ONLY physical memories left of her husband.
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<b>$10,000 reward for stolen cell phone.</b>
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Begging whoever has it. (Fredericksburg)Someone took my phone. A Samsung Galaxy S3. It's white. It's only worth a few hundred bucks to you or anyone else. If you unlock the screen you will see my home screen.
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In the picture stands a man. A man with a backpack and 2 other bags. That man you see, was my husband. And that night, it was the last time he ever held me. If you open the gallery you will see a collection of photos. Mostly of him. But some of his children as well. You will also see some of his funeral. Of his burial flag, his coffin.
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See, that man you saw on the home screen. The one who looks so eager to head into a war zone to protect the country he loved and his family, he lost his life doing so. The only pictures I have of him are on that phone because my computer crashed after I transferred them.
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Tonight, I cried uncontrollably in the arms of a friend because tonight I felt as though I lost my husband once more. I know with time my memory will fade. I will have difficulty explaining his features to his children. Or why I think they look like him. One who never had the honor of meeting his father.
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I don't care about the phone. If you have it. Please just email me. I will respond and you will be able to send them to my email and you will never hear from me again. I only want the pictures nothing else. The reward money is 100%. If you can prove to me you have the phone and are willing to give it back. Proof required: My husbands Eye color hair color and shirt color in the skype photo of him. Along with the type of cover that was on the phone.
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<a href="http://fredericksburg.craigslist.org/laf/3756601062.html">View her craigslist ad here</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-37277390039016229992013-05-15T06:48:00.002-07:002013-05-22T16:23:29.024-07:00So What WednesdaysI've stumbled upon this adorable blog and she invites her readers to join in on "So What Wednesdays." So, I am! :)
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So what if we are skipping the library today because it's rainy and I want to be lazy and would kind of like to avoid running into someone.
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So what if I just spent over $100 on the <a href="http://babbaco.refr.cc/PNCBWGM">BabbaBox</a> after reading <a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Shannon's</a> So What Wednesday post.
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So what if the only workout I'm getting in lately is walking and my squat challenge, I've been working hard on this weightloss and have done pretty darn good so far!
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So what if I've been really lazy with meals lately, at least we aren't eating too terribly.
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So what if I am somewhat looking forward to my oldest taking off for a month this summer, I am only human and raising a teenager is not easy!
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So what if I have pushed certain people out of my mind or life, some people are not worth the effort or the pain they cause.
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So what if I smiled when I've been flirted with lately, I've been working hard to get healthy and the compliments were nice.
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So what if the boys and I have had such a lazy week so far, we worked hard this past school year and all that is left is test prep and over a month before this school district is out for summer!
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Would you like to join us? What are YOU saying SO WHAT to this week? :)
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<center><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/search/label/So%20What" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1129.photobucket.com/albums/m504/diamonddolldesign/sowhatidew_zps90902df1.png" alt="So What Wednesday" /></a></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-63058639573760299182013-05-14T19:02:00.002-07:002013-05-14T19:02:44.479-07:00Simplify So I recently decided to get rid of our microwave. I just can't justify the need for it when we all know it isn't exactly the safest cooking method for our food. We use it for popcorn and heating up leftovers. I have a popcorn popper (and a stove and pot) and leftovers taste much better when warmed in the oven! We also have a toaster oven which can be used to warm up smaller items. It took some convincing with my husband and it's definitely taking some getting used to (I am now realizing how much I did actually use it for re-heating things.) But I am happy with my decision.
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Which kitchen appliance could you not live without? Which could you stand to lose? I'd love to hear from you! I've recently added to my kitchen collection with a juicer and a dehydrator but that goes along with simplifying our diets. No more frozen juice and no more bagged chips! I cannot wait for the farmer's market to open back up so I can get all kinds of yummy fruits & vegetables to use in them!
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Be on the lookout over the next several weeks for some yummy recipes as I experiment with these appliances and as I begin making our own bread and snack items!
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27453637235776225.post-64965253823054789822013-05-13T18:41:00.002-07:002013-05-13T18:42:53.208-07:00Obey ~ Blog PromptI am going to answer another blog prompt today.
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<b>Obey
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If you really had to define this in terms of action what would you say? </b>
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When I hear the word obey I do not think of superiors or a spouse or any human being. I think of God. And when I think of what obeying God means, I think of listening to him; listening to what God wants you to do and where God wants you to go, follow his lead! I pray for so many things, and these prayers are answered in many ways; sometimes those ways are signs of where my life needs to go next.
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So, guess I cannot blog about God in just sixty seconds. I went over a little but stopped to still somewhat follow the blog prompt. I really could go on and on about what God has taught me lately but perhaps I will save that for another post.
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Hope you all have a blessed week!
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<a href="http://oneminutewriter.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr226/cbethblog/OneMinuteWriterButton1.jpg" /></a></center> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18224587445787732010noreply@blogger.com2