tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81547912024-03-12T17:31:52.066-07:00Love Lives HereMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.comBlogger825125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-28356769426815685752010-10-26T00:32:00.001-07:002010-10-26T00:34:15.275-07:00So, time to completely re-do this blog? Or make a new start elsewhere? Decisions, decisions......Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-41065185543720815602010-06-08T08:48:00.003-07:002010-06-08T09:30:18.990-07:00Really?? January?I realized it had been awhile since I posted but I didn't realize it had been since January. Wow. I've been missing blogging so the plan is to get back into posting at least a couple times a week. I know I know, promises made, promises broken. I've been feeling somewhat better the last couple weeks and think the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">PPD</span> is lifting so I'm hopeful that I can start figuring out what our normal is going to look like around here.<br /><br />A few tidbits: Theron is almost 9 months already! He's crawling, pulling up to standing, and starting to walk along the furniture. He's a funny, happy little guy who just happens to not like sleep. He absolutely adores his sisters and follows them around whenever he can.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpR4xNCkBDf_uyHHezdjqWflJT9RMKnOmlZUilJD0lOpTa556a2g2DQoHGeF69k8DWOXhP9SIVACo-0MLV3Rh_WBKkzUtRPyMrX5gNOXkA_-A4dzt5mfUIUlaLbGTbSwbx442/s1600/DSC_0101.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpR4xNCkBDf_uyHHezdjqWflJT9RMKnOmlZUilJD0lOpTa556a2g2DQoHGeF69k8DWOXhP9SIVACo-0MLV3Rh_WBKkzUtRPyMrX5gNOXkA_-A4dzt5mfUIUlaLbGTbSwbx442/s320/DSC_0101.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480440071717728850" border="0" /></a><br />Sam is one of the funniest kids I know. She has a wicked sense of humor and has known how to tease pretty much as soon as she could talk. She wasn't to sure about Theron in the beginning but now that he's mobile and can "play" they have great fun together. It's so sweet to watch. She's finally starting to come out of her shell which is wonderful to watch. She'll be starting preschool in the fall 2 days a week. I'm excited for her to have something of her own, but apprehensive because I'm unsure how she'll do. I think with gradual entry she'll do great, I know the teacher as well and I think they are a good match.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNu40KMXsVfTLf__qDIYm8CuCAILq5MBUaU2Ju3I3ixctfO1K_9v1-sjaFy-ZClpMQqNMLmLoTWbUpvakA8Jri5NHAZtHiMQDFYIm_5VQFQtwzBh1is09Grvr440HHemyn4Cb/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNu40KMXsVfTLf__qDIYm8CuCAILq5MBUaU2Ju3I3ixctfO1K_9v1-sjaFy-ZClpMQqNMLmLoTWbUpvakA8Jri5NHAZtHiMQDFYIm_5VQFQtwzBh1is09Grvr440HHemyn4Cb/s320/DSC_0034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480440086834954898" border="0" /></a><br />Payton is almost done kindergarten! I can't believe she'll be in full time school in the fall. She's loving school and I know she'll do great but I'm not sure I'm ready for her to be gone so much! She's been learning to unicycle with her Dad and loves anything active. She's my super social kid and is the happiest when surrounded kids and activity. I enrolled her in soccer for the fall and think she'll love it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjtyTVDuI2Z1dTj6rUxcl8se2Z59aTL6LB89nVTZ6c1El4IMhPpcS8KUrC5-KOvr08xehZNU1r2L2Fn77xOiwGdkIRvZVdFsVdd-tHMNBE0lhLw222rTa2Jtd0cp5ExlBysI8/s1600/DSC_0212.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjtyTVDuI2Z1dTj6rUxcl8se2Z59aTL6LB89nVTZ6c1El4IMhPpcS8KUrC5-KOvr08xehZNU1r2L2Fn77xOiwGdkIRvZVdFsVdd-tHMNBE0lhLw222rTa2Jtd0cp5ExlBysI8/s320/DSC_0212.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480440065430122914" border="0" /></a><br />And as for me I've started to feel more like myself, which is wonderful. I've been sewing again, cooking, baked bread for the first time from scratch, and started running. Yes! Me! Running! I've never been a runner, and actually kinda thought runners were crazy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">lol</span>! But it's time to shed some of this I've had 3 babies weight and get healthy. Running allows me <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">flexibility</span> in when I can go and gives me time outside BY-MY-SELF! I found a program called, Couch To 5k. It's a schedule designed to get non-runners(like me) able to run 5 k in 9 weeks. I needed something scheduled and gradual or I knew I wouldn't follow through. I found an app for my phone that has been wonderful. I finished my week 3 day 1 run yesterday and although it's getting harder I finished! So far so good.<br /><br />This was just going to be a short post but when you don't write for 6 months there's a lot to catch up on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">lol</span>! I'm going to stop here, upload some pics of my kids, and promise(!) to write again soon.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-46390288014196803532010-01-27T23:23:00.004-08:002010-01-27T23:47:15.326-08:00Look who is growing up WAY too fast!<div style="text-align: center;">Theron is 4.5 months old now. It's going by crazy fast! He sat with us at the dinner table for the first time tonight. Well first time on his own, he's been there on lap many times before. I can't believe he sits so well already!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfhEV_7RyatyZUbyeaF16QBRAySd9Fpg5zOJklgwRb7zAoNWiESGRocWUCZz9FQEYdTzwiL82TduCVonr5n2b3GEzX_rCrCOn8g_p8EJQ4OTpvANcuZlwFH7S1REe2ts3w5jv/s1600-h/DSC_8311.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfhEV_7RyatyZUbyeaF16QBRAySd9Fpg5zOJklgwRb7zAoNWiESGRocWUCZz9FQEYdTzwiL82TduCVonr5n2b3GEzX_rCrCOn8g_p8EJQ4OTpvANcuZlwFH7S1REe2ts3w5jv/s400/DSC_8311.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431691632559820402" border="0" /></a>He's gotten very reachy grabby lately, everything is examined and tasted. Much hair has been pulled :)<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVs2hZSLu6V6lTL3ivpFhl9N7kKrLgJQmo4cAfqx7ezUD_638UpfdnFr4SPscTzIPwOAhHvr7p52oh5ZvirLwFym-a_oLNXxw68RmUkAWppYucWychWBObHOZbQhTeuuA8Ha6/s1600-h/DSC_8310.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVs2hZSLu6V6lTL3ivpFhl9N7kKrLgJQmo4cAfqx7ezUD_638UpfdnFr4SPscTzIPwOAhHvr7p52oh5ZvirLwFym-a_oLNXxw68RmUkAWppYucWychWBObHOZbQhTeuuA8Ha6/s400/DSC_8310.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431690699124216738" border="0" /></a>I think he likes the high chair!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ29eU_e2u4L0LGM94Exgdgzf0gHwZCAPU33yxFC684iQTGr1DQ1lxwc74GJtH_Epf57zdvVXY3FlHFo3uYyFKzHTJP7GeOPqiLmki900ehS8Tdz8wqu1C_hz_7gFczLHnvXP5/s1600-h/DSC_8309.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ29eU_e2u4L0LGM94Exgdgzf0gHwZCAPU33yxFC684iQTGr1DQ1lxwc74GJtH_Epf57zdvVXY3FlHFo3uYyFKzHTJP7GeOPqiLmki900ehS8Tdz8wqu1C_hz_7gFczLHnvXP5/s400/DSC_8309.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431690693418840946" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">He watched us and played and we all got to sit down to eat together, Yay!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5RYSpYnd2pHjALEfSYz8jwdeTzVH1Cneiw1H0z0cowsX_Uyvykf47t44vXbsLMDaKsv2M3aTuJhiibRg_cGLC3V-R88MDrpRv4_aaXRgX60hNW5pgHGiDqHJLPIpo4tbMT_su/s1600-h/DSC_8312.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5RYSpYnd2pHjALEfSYz8jwdeTzVH1Cneiw1H0z0cowsX_Uyvykf47t44vXbsLMDaKsv2M3aTuJhiibRg_cGLC3V-R88MDrpRv4_aaXRgX60hNW5pgHGiDqHJLPIpo4tbMT_su/s400/DSC_8312.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431690687284827922" border="0" /></a>He also thinks Mom is pretty funny!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6b1H6Xg2kR1LKJQpdvVGg2jrc1uweVN7OuTIerbI0QFJXwxcpuT070-oQ-ae6Czlf9gkfpHzIaaxZ8vwacm2RODqE-wrNs4UyNIVRL08ikDa_GHfwOb0xZk89VGfp1DIroEfk/s1600-h/DSC_8317.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6b1H6Xg2kR1LKJQpdvVGg2jrc1uweVN7OuTIerbI0QFJXwxcpuT070-oQ-ae6Czlf9gkfpHzIaaxZ8vwacm2RODqE-wrNs4UyNIVRL08ikDa_GHfwOb0xZk89VGfp1DIroEfk/s400/DSC_8317.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431690677241244450" border="0" /></a>I love this little man so much!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GLelU9ll6hLpwYrsZoReX9Y21s2tEx3znJWH1xmlTsvHB1_fBtCqVTZ5In-5n_5qZ9Szxwiw9kGJltHTgrem1qhUQPdwSg8CiUutwoibd8CnOhpyG0Mo-No9IfhLJP-tNkC5/s1600-h/DSC_8316.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GLelU9ll6hLpwYrsZoReX9Y21s2tEx3znJWH1xmlTsvHB1_fBtCqVTZ5In-5n_5qZ9Szxwiw9kGJltHTgrem1qhUQPdwSg8CiUutwoibd8CnOhpyG0Mo-No9IfhLJP-tNkC5/s400/DSC_8316.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431690667422666834" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Don't grow up too fast!<br /></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-59561817917867635882010-01-24T15:44:00.003-08:002010-01-24T16:30:46.440-08:00Small StepsI'm not sure about everyone else but I tend to be over ambitous. Now I'm not against ambition, it's a great motivator, but I tend to set unrealistic ideals for myself. Then when I don't live up to my own expectations I beat up on myself or give up completely or both. Usually both.<br /><br />This has come to make me a huge believer in small steps. Small steps may be small but they are still steps none-the-less. There are big things that need doing around here, but with an infant and 2 small children always depending on me for something, big things don't often get done. And that has to be ok, but its funny how if I don't get any housework done around here it really looks like Mom didn't get any housework done around here lol!<br /><br />To me the needs of my kids are far more important than having a spotless house. Yet my sanity insists on not being surrounded by clutter and things left un-done all the time. I have yet to find the balance I'm looking for since having #3. I was just getting into a good groove with my girls when I got pregnant with #3 so I know it will take awhile but I need to start making baby steps.<br /><br />So my baby step for today will be getting more sleep. We're just starting to get more night time sleep around here which is a huge blessing but I've found I've still been staying up too late. Partially out of habit I think, and partially because I've been enjoying the quiet time. If I'm going to be at my best during the day, get the most accomplished, be a more patient Mom, I need to get more sleep.<br /><br />I've also decided to join <a href="http://hipmountainmamablog.com/one-small-change/">One Small Change</a> over at <a href="http://hipmountainmamablog.com/">Hip Mountain Mama</a>. This also ties into living intentionally. I need to be more intentional about taking care of our planet. The idea is to make one small change a month until Earth Day. I think it's a great idea that could inspire a lot of change without becoming overwhelming. I haven't decided what change we're going to make over here but I have a few days to decide.<br /><br />I was going to try to find some pictures to go with this post as I think a post without pics seems naked, but it appears my <a href="http://rodbot.blogspot.com/">hubby</a> took the laptop to work which is where all the new photos are. So another naked post it is!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-75022496200255349952010-01-22T21:34:00.002-08:002010-01-22T21:52:54.334-08:00HousecleaningGoing to be doing some housecleaning around here, I've already started, slowly.<br /><br />I've been thinking a lot about New Years resolutions, I know it's well past New Years but I've been mulling things around. I'm not a fan of New Years resolutions in general, they are often made with out much intention and don't have staying power. Which brought me to think about intentions, and intentional living, about paying attention to the here and now. To try to enjoy each day, or at least something about each day. To learn something, to do something, to just be present. I find so often I'm focused on getting through, and getting by that I miss out on the here and now. So my intention for this year is to be. Yes, plan for the future and work toward goals but not at the expense of today.<br /><br />I think a journey is awaiting and I'm excited. With all this thinking I've been subjecting myself to I've also realized that I don't really know, consciously know, what makes me tick. What resonates in my soul? What makes me feel alive? Or on a more simple note, what do I like and dislike? If someone asked me how I would want to decorate, or wear if I could choose anything and I really don't know!<br /><br />So I'm going to work on clearing out my actual house, my blog space, and my brain. Then re-building. I'm not sure where this is all coming from except that I'm feeling a huge drive to re-evaluate and grow. And I need to write for that to happen.<br /><br />I have a feeling that wasn't very coherent but I've gotten something out of my head so that's a good first step :)Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-86896743979603662412010-01-20T20:55:00.004-08:002010-01-21T09:54:32.467-08:00UpdatesHello blog world!<br /><br />I've been missing you so here I am. I'm not sure how much I will post to this space but I sure do miss writing. I think I may change things up a bit around here when time allows. There doesn't seem to be enough time in the world lately so that may be awhile :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB9lGBuKzOuqs_tB__EfrT_FzIIRiQ9o5Hp_PmQvHOQPHcEaCEomQEXRxp7lwhJtU5cjsVJeXphyphenhyphenx4jrzyWWAQtTnKbkCAl6ovsAHreRhpKHHVtqVuiqL2ud_iS9hVRUYImwr/s1600-h/DSC_6389.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB9lGBuKzOuqs_tB__EfrT_FzIIRiQ9o5Hp_PmQvHOQPHcEaCEomQEXRxp7lwhJtU5cjsVJeXphyphenhyphenx4jrzyWWAQtTnKbkCAl6ovsAHreRhpKHHVtqVuiqL2ud_iS9hVRUYImwr/s400/DSC_6389.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429073491702891938" border="0" /></a>Our son Theron joined the family on Sept 10th, another c-section because he was breech. He was a big baby, my biggest yet weighing 9lbs 8oz. He's still big, 22 lbs and 28 inches at 4 months! He's wearing 9-12 month clothes! He's a joy and I'm totally loving getting to know my little. man. He's not much of a sleeper so we've been in sleep deprivation mode around here. 3 is so crazy busy that I'm still trying to figure out how everything is going to run around here, how to fit everything into a day and not go crazy. It's easier this time somehow because I know eventually he will sleep and won't be so dependant on me at all times.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgcT7tSI3skXvc3nJ9GmYkWBwWZspiwD9TWjXDDHL_sSsMpltDEB2gLhdr7ScDYvMvOa5VXvA09tDfL4IvxjMdoUuiGZ3FO9fRRn5EsZtsKxz-9Rj2UEC9fD_Me8ogj8F4iDq/s400/DSC_6791.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429073502031915970" border="0" />He's a joy and I'm totally loving getting to know my little. man. He's not much of a sleeper so we've been in sleep deprivation mode around here. 3 is so crazy busy that I'm still trying to figure out how everything is going to run around here, how to fit everything into a day and not go crazy. It's easier this time somehow because I know eventually he will sleep and won't be so dependant on me at all times.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKgzH1dN5Iqb60X8olCmhW6uD4OsrPpxIt7fxMVUFzwuunDAAQRDvaqOGio3_aGssDn9oeeqvyPL03AFlehV9_li-WeyUVtafXB25-Bp_EpRjd226Dxg6PjexmcEE8bYrn47T/s1600-h/DSC_6548.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKgzH1dN5Iqb60X8olCmhW6uD4OsrPpxIt7fxMVUFzwuunDAAQRDvaqOGio3_aGssDn9oeeqvyPL03AFlehV9_li-WeyUVtafXB25-Bp_EpRjd226Dxg6PjexmcEE8bYrn47T/s400/DSC_6548.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429073507998425618" border="0" /></a>I've been itching to get my craft on again lately, now just to find the time and energy to indulge, hopefully there will be some crafty posts before too long.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJMC2FEMBpRd_JGc40-GwHenlzUynHi3EoeFTwTleIHMwuJ1CsLSZM0nfki1u9cPOG2_BQffYbj4O6RAe5Ud6l_sk8hyphenhyphenxq5O8trm9dzbAiixVCxCJte867QzwNmZo7DAro1V8/s1600-h/mclatchy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJMC2FEMBpRd_JGc40-GwHenlzUynHi3EoeFTwTleIHMwuJ1CsLSZM0nfki1u9cPOG2_BQffYbj4O6RAe5Ud6l_sk8hyphenhyphenxq5O8trm9dzbAiixVCxCJte867QzwNmZo7DAro1V8/s400/mclatchy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429073515935169282" border="0" /></a><br />I'm going to try to get some photos uploaded, it's being crazy slow and call it good for a night and hopefully be back soon! (Got them up! YAY!)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsjr1Y9hOeGCI7M6ZGVB89YSPmQ7_pn9jpqNCLqu1BOb3fcgADFm2cfJKHKgw6vBNSWOzKYkk2Ff7_aiRLzRnEeNDVcagfYzPO6AJdHfCA8njGrJVdzQM-3MhwQZNHgA0rGEF/s1600-h/DSC_8109.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsjr1Y9hOeGCI7M6ZGVB89YSPmQ7_pn9jpqNCLqu1BOb3fcgADFm2cfJKHKgw6vBNSWOzKYkk2Ff7_aiRLzRnEeNDVcagfYzPO6AJdHfCA8njGrJVdzQM-3MhwQZNHgA0rGEF/s400/DSC_8109.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429073526617791170" border="0" /></a>This is Theron today at 4 months. He's wearing the cutest owl hat ever knit by a close friend who recently started a <a href="http://hatswithears.blogspot.com/">blog</a>, and taught me to knit :) I am so in love with this hat. I think he needs a non-wool one to wear as an "inside" hat :)Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-86904770980373521992009-06-06T08:51:00.002-07:002009-06-06T09:26:32.819-07:00Hello Blog I've missed youSo it's been awhile. A serious LONG while. I really really do miss blogging though. So why have I not been writing?? Don't know. I know at first it was because I didn't want to tell the world I was expecting yet(did you catch that??) YES! We are expecting #3 in Sept. Sept 18th to be exact but since Payton was so early I am going to be ready any time in Sept, watch this one will be late!<br /><br />There's so much to catch up on! Where to start?? Payton has finished her year of dance and did wonderful at her dance recital. We have a new family member, Sara, she's a Hedgehog(yes a hedgehog!) and so so cute! Sam turned 2 in feb(I just can't believe that!), I have been learning to knit and just cast on a blanket for the baby(I hope it turns out!), Payton is registered in kindergarten(I REALLY can't believe that!), we've started a purge and clean of the house to prepare for baby(or maybe more so I don't go crazy about the clutter anymore, but baby gives it a timeline to be done by!). Ok I'm going to stop there some of that really needs it's own blog post complete with pics.<br /><br />I am not going to promise a post a day, but I think a few times a week sounds good. I really hate to post this without pics but think I'd better get off here, maybe I'll update it later. Or maybe not so much lol!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-32901559022118539632009-01-09T09:04:00.004-08:002009-01-09T09:12:24.953-08:00Ummm...Oops....Well I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted! I was pretty busy leading up to Christmas but the truth is I'm trying to decide how much a part of my life I want the internet to be. It's such a time eater. I do miss writing on my blog so that's going to remain but I always put such pressure on myself to post everyday and that they have to full of substance. I think I will try for 2-3 posts a week then I should be fine. I also have a list of blogs I follow that is taller than I am. I'm going to cut that down dramatically. I think maybe I'm internet overwhelmed?? Lol!<br /><br />I have some things I made over Christmas to show you, as well as a Christmas re-cap(I know it's January but I also use this space to remember), and a late New Years type post. <br /><br />So yes, I'm still around, and intend to be.<br /><br />Belated MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEARS!! LOL!!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-51929323674621852612008-11-24T10:07:00.002-08:002008-11-24T10:10:52.841-08:00Art will take you places.<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qpunQZ4cUyI&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qpunQZ4cUyI&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Loved this. Half was through Payton wanted to go "do art".<br /><br />Originally found <a href="http://www.themayfly.com/weblog/">here</a>.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-88581234930331267272008-11-02T11:02:00.004-08:002008-11-02T12:50:02.333-08:00Halloween Snapshots<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgryHUwuomlMLmIJ1RhPm_vTIFCP-Xt3XIdxqCvzLX4rtbLMQMMjivpKQOuCHvfWTtY2ifY6n6je96hTRxsB2yYLNeAc3n8Ugat_ks9drEMWs9dRJGXRryS67r1J1PC0GASYILN/s1600-h/Copy+of+DSC_9516.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgryHUwuomlMLmIJ1RhPm_vTIFCP-Xt3XIdxqCvzLX4rtbLMQMMjivpKQOuCHvfWTtY2ifY6n6je96hTRxsB2yYLNeAc3n8Ugat_ks9drEMWs9dRJGXRryS67r1J1PC0GASYILN/s400/Copy+of+DSC_9516.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264145578490391042" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosUXLSUcbZltwCiepTWDKwgFyQfFx3FKFVA8C0AJUquxLrUEhHLk-FdaSUnzdiZvIAdqcXgmiw8rMO2h17pjMqv_Jr2fJ-A349HF1qrML5fwJ7tYAkHrVjWYHOueoZtDcLWru/s1600-h/DSC_9509.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosUXLSUcbZltwCiepTWDKwgFyQfFx3FKFVA8C0AJUquxLrUEhHLk-FdaSUnzdiZvIAdqcXgmiw8rMO2h17pjMqv_Jr2fJ-A349HF1qrML5fwJ7tYAkHrVjWYHOueoZtDcLWru/s400/DSC_9509.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264145569017811314" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0407OB0DDZx_CmHNKpJ21EgLrglj2Yjk-KGQxUvEA8Xeo4BaMFtQJ8QRR2_7mswCtD-XrUT_pnD2yZ_DT6GmMZF7wCyYZpUL_AVdgFXpzyPMvdBTi7S7BZQD0gaA76ja7V2Nu/s1600-h/DSC_9594.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0407OB0DDZx_CmHNKpJ21EgLrglj2Yjk-KGQxUvEA8Xeo4BaMFtQJ8QRR2_7mswCtD-XrUT_pnD2yZ_DT6GmMZF7wCyYZpUL_AVdgFXpzyPMvdBTi7S7BZQD0gaA76ja7V2Nu/s400/DSC_9594.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264140900687741170" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHg3ongTjsAukRd7RlOUKF5DuWHyRQYTte31SR5kIcUyQmwZXVLQvB7tfrDAYKb77EFGSMRByHPP3fzeEdOiK7yls1TSadYcCF5DW1KmbmF0DwbSDIZUlVa2uMqMIe-gFPnCz2/s1600-h/DSC_9536.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHg3ongTjsAukRd7RlOUKF5DuWHyRQYTte31SR5kIcUyQmwZXVLQvB7tfrDAYKb77EFGSMRByHPP3fzeEdOiK7yls1TSadYcCF5DW1KmbmF0DwbSDIZUlVa2uMqMIe-gFPnCz2/s400/DSC_9536.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264140893283891746" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_LOht3ZKHr1KG1DO9H9hUQ_4NOWlpZyQb4oNA4E96yPj7kwewa5_z4Q0sCTq1dAuBlIVUhPv_y-iNEM_evdl2LU_tDiozaSGumf5jaXlWmswhRB-9jv1zU8sRhYMD8qEHsIx/s1600-h/DSC_9586.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_LOht3ZKHr1KG1DO9H9hUQ_4NOWlpZyQb4oNA4E96yPj7kwewa5_z4Q0sCTq1dAuBlIVUhPv_y-iNEM_evdl2LU_tDiozaSGumf5jaXlWmswhRB-9jv1zU8sRhYMD8qEHsIx/s400/DSC_9586.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264140887593853330" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkRl4dZDR9w18HKQu1B1SG-F6fBU36tgoFj-z5AWYkDmxw23p9H4y8LMQ-wQrAMZo7k1XyKLq_u-LjDRWWf_MH6BabcHBUzwDfaCyvjU8u4fGls0BgX-x1rEkZfHiKkMK2YFJ/s1600-h/DSC_9552.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkRl4dZDR9w18HKQu1B1SG-F6fBU36tgoFj-z5AWYkDmxw23p9H4y8LMQ-wQrAMZo7k1XyKLq_u-LjDRWWf_MH6BabcHBUzwDfaCyvjU8u4fGls0BgX-x1rEkZfHiKkMK2YFJ/s400/DSC_9552.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264145589505119746" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitD6xx_bPwXnkTFBHHzVB0DSyR-5As1tpTRvMP3ZyciGBEQmQOqfWrCqvm0WEmOaEDMaTfe7NvdmimnSXgEauh697FyXwI-0jFBKPYRiYmKzN_AURkEvOSS4d18mGHpx6w7WaO/s1600-h/DSC_9575.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitD6xx_bPwXnkTFBHHzVB0DSyR-5As1tpTRvMP3ZyciGBEQmQOqfWrCqvm0WEmOaEDMaTfe7NvdmimnSXgEauh697FyXwI-0jFBKPYRiYmKzN_AURkEvOSS4d18mGHpx6w7WaO/s400/DSC_9575.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264140882753767570" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuYuOjuUfTsbHnLaJiu1SW3xzxQzQoyvTIMMlcOoNDpI8Gw-4WJF8briQB8sWo2o-j8EEXIn755Dqlco4MyPdOrBqZ5v2Yj7jwMWlqHfjSluoPEcQeT61EmL_bBBnvtnOXgCU/s1600-h/DSC_9558.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuYuOjuUfTsbHnLaJiu1SW3xzxQzQoyvTIMMlcOoNDpI8Gw-4WJF8briQB8sWo2o-j8EEXIn755Dqlco4MyPdOrBqZ5v2Yj7jwMWlqHfjSluoPEcQeT61EmL_bBBnvtnOXgCU/s400/DSC_9558.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264145597423432690" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXczWuNz37YOPF3u6ANhsc7bw8yrDcUagUPhUlICOb0cUvPSmo1BcA5zyKinvdQxTy2IJhO0I9RGOGd7qoTcaOlBYi8XLOmV7ngZhL9BpuXG38WC2qENWCtIyDpgo8vB8x3Z22/s1600-h/DSC_9559+copy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXczWuNz37YOPF3u6ANhsc7bw8yrDcUagUPhUlICOb0cUvPSmo1BcA5zyKinvdQxTy2IJhO0I9RGOGd7qoTcaOlBYi8XLOmV7ngZhL9BpuXG38WC2qENWCtIyDpgo8vB8x3Z22/s400/DSC_9559+copy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264140876748914450" border="0" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-31068297551677913032008-10-29T09:53:00.003-07:002008-10-29T11:13:36.690-07:00We love books.I don't know about you but I love books. I've been reading ferociously for as long as I can remember. I would take books out of the library in stacks, even as a teen. 10-15 novels at a time and have them all finished by the time they were due. Since having kids I have a new obsession, childrens books, oh and craft books:) I thought I would share a few recent favorites. Grrrr...I can't get the link without the amazon.ca button underneath it to work. Sorry about that. I'm not trying to sell you books, I promise. Just show you what we've been enjoying.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="http://rcm-ca.amazon.ca/e/cm?t=lovlivher-20&o=15&p=8&l=as1&asins=0439961874&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr&npa=1" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>Payton's favorite at the moment is The Balloon Tree. It is a library book so eventually we will have to return it, but this one is going on our wish list. The story and illustrations are beautiful. Payton asks for it every night and I really enjoy reading it(which makes it two thumbs up)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="http://rcm-ca.amazon.ca/e/cm?t=lovlivher-20&o=15&p=8&l=as1&asins=0439782252&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr&npa=1" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />Another library favorite at the moment is Lily Browns Paintings. This is a really fun book about a young girl and her art. I love how it encourages kids to paint things however they want. I find so often that kids are encouraged to create only "realistic" things. If their cow is purple, or trees have shoes(as in the book) they are made to feel their creation isn't good because it's not realistic. I try to encourage Payton to use her imagination, and that whatever she wants to draw or create it's fantastic because it's hers. Art is so relative and is different for everyone, I know I hesitate to do things for fear of what other people think and am trying to get over that and just create. I hope I can instill that in my girls.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm-ca.amazon.ca/e/cm?t=lovlivher-20&o=15&p=8&l=as1&asins=0970810458&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr&npa=1" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />Fairy Houses is one we own and has been read over and over again. Pay is really into fairies right now, and I have to admit, so is mom!<br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm-ca.amazon.ca/e/cm?t=lovlivher-20&o=15&p=8&l=as1&asins=1416928111&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr&npa=1" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />We just got this book through a school scholastic order and I love it. It's really simple in words and art but what it does say is so big. This may have been a purchase more for mom than the girls as I teared up the first time I read it. I think I may have to get another copy so each child has their own. Payton loved how the baby grew up and had a baby of her own. She loves to talk about how things grow right now, including herself!<br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm-ca.amazon.ca/e/cm?t=lovlivher-20&o=15&p=8&l=as1&asins=0689832133&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr&npa=1" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />This is also a brand new addition, that I haven't actually read to Payton yet but will today. It's really a fun book about livestock that goes on strike. It really made me giggle and I'm sure Payton will enjoy it. Sam may actually sit for this one as well as she loves animals.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm-ca.amazon.ca/e/cm?t=lovlivher-20&o=15&p=8&l=as1&asins=0399246002&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr&npa=1" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />I LOVE this book. This is another library book that is going on my wish list, maybe even Christmas list. It is aimed at Children a little older than mine but I think it's a fantastic book. It's 23 different artists writing to children about their artwork, their inspirations, and tips and encouragements for the kids. It's so great for inspiration. Each artist has done a self portrait(in their own style of course), as well as a fold out of more of their artwork. It's a hardcover book that goes for about $22 on amazon.ca with proceeds going to The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. I think it's a good value for this book.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I also got some inspiration in the mail this week, which are not actually books, but thought I would share them anyways :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SsEJvUkDYGc_1GoqVw4PWs7ZjmakN78awlnYorQb0rGAKXEuh7pzgp93G8ASpfjzNuVzueLvC3eAdnK-sMbhHgnQy9kY8rnu9HbHAiKZpZMDkU1uc-kewKbhUYoVjvBgEm9V/s1600-h/Ottobre.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 336px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SsEJvUkDYGc_1GoqVw4PWs7ZjmakN78awlnYorQb0rGAKXEuh7pzgp93G8ASpfjzNuVzueLvC3eAdnK-sMbhHgnQy9kY8rnu9HbHAiKZpZMDkU1uc-kewKbhUYoVjvBgEm9V/s400/Ottobre.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262636762869917266" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I got my new <a href="http://www.ottobredesign.com/">Ottobre</a> Magazine. They are a company from Finland and the magazines are full of childrens fashion(they also have womens fashion) and every outfit comes with pattern and instructions. This is the <a href="http://www.ottobredesign.com/lehdet_js/2008_6/index.html?fi">winter 6/2008 issue</a> and has some wonderful things in it like usual.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I also received some long awaited for patterns from Sandi Henderson over at <a href="http://portabellopixie.typepad.com/portabellopixie/">Portabellopixie</a>. The patterns are just beautiful with full colour detailed instructions. I can't wait to sew up something from these. The link to check out the patterns is <a href="http://sandihendersondesign.com/catalog.htm?item=4">here</a>. It does appear though that she's having some website issues at the moment so here are the links to her post about them, <a href="http://portabellopixie.typepad.com/portabellopixie/2008/07/portabellopixie.html">Claire</a>, <a href="http://portabellopixie.typepad.com/portabellopixie/2008/08/portabellopixie.html">Analise</a>, <a href="http://portabellopixie.typepad.com/portabellopixie/2008/09/were-live.html">Gracie</a>, <a href="http://portabellopixie.typepad.com/portabellopixie/2008/06/portabellopixie.html">Ruffle Pants</a>, and the <a href="http://portabellopixie.typepad.com/portabellopixie/2008/06/portabellopix-1.html">Market B<span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>ag</a>.<br /><br /><br />All right, back to real life now. I smell something suspicious.<br /><br /><br /></div></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-79862793558908194462008-10-26T14:15:00.002-07:002008-10-26T14:29:13.978-07:00Yummy Autumn SoupI've been experimenting a little more with food lately. Trying to break out of the "same olds". Some has been good, some just ok, some very very good! This was one of the very very good ones. SO YUMMY! I didn't even use fresh pumpkin for this and it was still wonderful. The girls were so so about it even though I went light on the curry but Rod and I both agreed this will be added to our make again list.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiG7v6z_j4WYSW0fR8M4rQfKyeIAuqteAiDzTTo_DQRTbVZosjeJMyLBrxTRXHd4WFq5GuY1SEZ_r2zBzX4s2kzqdfGESSHGmojheFL6Sk6NjIfQgw1_mlZaqe_VJbBEpETb2/s1600-h/DSC_9234.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiG7v6z_j4WYSW0fR8M4rQfKyeIAuqteAiDzTTo_DQRTbVZosjeJMyLBrxTRXHd4WFq5GuY1SEZ_r2zBzX4s2kzqdfGESSHGmojheFL6Sk6NjIfQgw1_mlZaqe_VJbBEpETb2/s400/DSC_9234.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261576614102814930" border="0" /></a><br />Pumpkin Curry Soup<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br /> * 2 tablespoons butter or margarine<br /> * 1 cup (1 small) chopped onion<br /> * 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped<br /> * 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder<br /> * 1/2 teaspoon salt<br /> * 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper<br /> * 3 cups chicken broth<br /> * 1 can (15 oz.) Pumpkin Puree<br /> * 1 can (12 fl. oz.) Evaporated Milk<br /><br />Directions:<br />MELT butter in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender. Stir in curry powder, salt and pepper; cook for 1 minute.<br /><br />ADD broth and pumpkin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in evaporated milk. Transfer mixture to food processor or blender (in batches, if necessary); cover. Blend until smooth. Serve warm.<br /><br />Originally found <a href="http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/detail.aspx?ID=28476">here</a>.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-43638016969129089702008-10-24T13:58:00.006-07:002008-10-24T17:46:31.596-07:00Apple Fest at the Botanical GardenI'm feeling a little short on words(and time) today so I will treat you to pictures. We went to the Apple Festival at the Botanical Garden here on campus last weekend. Oma and Opa came too and fun was had by all. I did notice though that somehow I'm short of apple pictures, Hmmmmm.......<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVOFG7CQCdVpC6m-8-bDmqDeow4xi_oLHF3OpG27jq29yB8G5hY7BG4Cu6P5RdwlBduyC3QokXOaVyilJHySVGjFBgC1YgCdr3YCXg88yphomOJK_PD6Bf3DwzJeCZR2b6BVCp/s1600-h/DSC_8702.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVOFG7CQCdVpC6m-8-bDmqDeow4xi_oLHF3OpG27jq29yB8G5hY7BG4Cu6P5RdwlBduyC3QokXOaVyilJHySVGjFBgC1YgCdr3YCXg88yphomOJK_PD6Bf3DwzJeCZR2b6BVCp/s400/DSC_8702.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260875862023559954" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrpQIw9XZTyMRlg1unWSzXlmhaCwuNL3q9fYtRo3pTCZlroWGuslD5VZz_QzfWIU269V3cZR0IQPkR3TATID4FX8itGtl8u5MSb7WDDvtCo-xlDs5Z8rggFoS5HfFzdxaUPoM/s1600-h/DSC_8688.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrpQIw9XZTyMRlg1unWSzXlmhaCwuNL3q9fYtRo3pTCZlroWGuslD5VZz_QzfWIU269V3cZR0IQPkR3TATID4FX8itGtl8u5MSb7WDDvtCo-xlDs5Z8rggFoS5HfFzdxaUPoM/s400/DSC_8688.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260875855415733522" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4clCFs3OWRby92sLPJFLiDdqPe5jS2EtzTctPu71f8eywUueCoPCbvvC1K1wb7MudSSzaik5czoyV3lQuFtL-PlOz4BVBS4NbUWHk8OT-qJsemmq5NjxDuKYbSBlydN-mtCSs/s1600-h/DSC_8682.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4clCFs3OWRby92sLPJFLiDdqPe5jS2EtzTctPu71f8eywUueCoPCbvvC1K1wb7MudSSzaik5czoyV3lQuFtL-PlOz4BVBS4NbUWHk8OT-qJsemmq5NjxDuKYbSBlydN-mtCSs/s400/DSC_8682.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260875848729087554" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIR3STGUQZNLS-v1FJ7ekecZVYT1PUjkFnTQ8Fg8A8Sl7r7Bq026gz07kFiPp16huSZmKL1_dEpabOanZm4ZZaicpzh8IrokQOj63Tbr-zGUdnZh2iaw2UVsye9Ihmcj53WAPo/s1600-h/DSC_8667.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIR3STGUQZNLS-v1FJ7ekecZVYT1PUjkFnTQ8Fg8A8Sl7r7Bq026gz07kFiPp16huSZmKL1_dEpabOanZm4ZZaicpzh8IrokQOj63Tbr-zGUdnZh2iaw2UVsye9Ihmcj53WAPo/s400/DSC_8667.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260875843879205970" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin6PBR-iG0Azpx-GlQCHHVam2Hapcy4s649LOFdKUosaoFiOSB4AsjNcx2gDsiPRlPKjSRzLDKyDsH86RUGu0V-rJK6pWpWZMvOuSZ0gun3FnCk7hzid72I4L-Yo5nMdg19sVS/s1600-h/DSC_8657.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin6PBR-iG0Azpx-GlQCHHVam2Hapcy4s649LOFdKUosaoFiOSB4AsjNcx2gDsiPRlPKjSRzLDKyDsH86RUGu0V-rJK6pWpWZMvOuSZ0gun3FnCk7hzid72I4L-Yo5nMdg19sVS/s400/DSC_8657.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260875836238326082" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUs4QuP0nb_4gIBHeT-RCvLpx1qoqkP3krDVVuBJAg7jjw2nAxLEpdm-Mp0PFqLCnmMDZz83coUIVWl4H1SlsnJK76hzX-fN3_rshW2LTcmkFGW_1wuMOEr48_e-2E35NvDMmU/s1600-h/DSC_8650.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUs4QuP0nb_4gIBHeT-RCvLpx1qoqkP3krDVVuBJAg7jjw2nAxLEpdm-Mp0PFqLCnmMDZz83coUIVWl4H1SlsnJK76hzX-fN3_rshW2LTcmkFGW_1wuMOEr48_e-2E35NvDMmU/s400/DSC_8650.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260848704188712306" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj492VS2m5mGa-sZlZt1QvufokJl0K_vd0wGWatnBdbGN_RWN9QuedGWNReJkvLusGqTdijQZosdx33FNGtKHIN9g6lHT2eScI7kZhoahwuKJVee2_jpzkIeaqxLgVH6qI7e2o-/s1600-h/DSC_8639.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj492VS2m5mGa-sZlZt1QvufokJl0K_vd0wGWatnBdbGN_RWN9QuedGWNReJkvLusGqTdijQZosdx33FNGtKHIN9g6lHT2eScI7kZhoahwuKJVee2_jpzkIeaqxLgVH6qI7e2o-/s400/DSC_8639.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260848697943115954" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0BlswHwmFUloMkIyAExI2PuCV8gAzZXSLshFbH8sAJIDNMaf0yHCiBo8I18YY5U9QpSCu4m20m9v4ue3sYA7QMlZxDwQo5Cs_-aolKKFvg0ePzYBKtnYSjruNaClAx_llR1L/s1600-h/DSC_8631.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0BlswHwmFUloMkIyAExI2PuCV8gAzZXSLshFbH8sAJIDNMaf0yHCiBo8I18YY5U9QpSCu4m20m9v4ue3sYA7QMlZxDwQo5Cs_-aolKKFvg0ePzYBKtnYSjruNaClAx_llR1L/s400/DSC_8631.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260848689774510722" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwVg-zpGB-KWlQWJJfr2_JccHlr8OtX_vNqjxLngGGris4j6FrbUILMIkwYnmrvbxauLwxeXcrv0Jguvc6xonsUqgGVKFISRc7of1UD094XjQ6SoncqiLnVdRcg30mNZzAw6w/s1600-h/DSC_8628.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwVg-zpGB-KWlQWJJfr2_JccHlr8OtX_vNqjxLngGGris4j6FrbUILMIkwYnmrvbxauLwxeXcrv0Jguvc6xonsUqgGVKFISRc7of1UD094XjQ6SoncqiLnVdRcg30mNZzAw6w/s400/DSC_8628.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260848686226547426" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgooBTrGArReHoXsisXo6_ZEtn2mxLpeJjDXtLZ0RWFYKTxmXi9nDU8HsVXNZ_ymmsGIRV-tCVSv0bwnuciCkXdtJFEoi5GPBirOP5ZaFjjxKJKFgLJsHccl4blIZv4N564NuIE/s1600-h/DSC_8621.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgooBTrGArReHoXsisXo6_ZEtn2mxLpeJjDXtLZ0RWFYKTxmXi9nDU8HsVXNZ_ymmsGIRV-tCVSv0bwnuciCkXdtJFEoi5GPBirOP5ZaFjjxKJKFgLJsHccl4blIZv4N564NuIE/s400/DSC_8621.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260848679348379410" border="0" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-13540278628932575862008-10-22T10:37:00.003-07:002008-10-22T10:40:44.952-07:00In search of some good pumpkin recipesWe went to the pumpkin patch yesterday and came home with some rather large pumpkins. My hope is to not let the pumpkin go to waste. The seeds of course will be a welcome treat but I want to try some cooking and/or baking with pumpkin. It's something I haven't tried before so I need some suggestion/recipes. I did find a few online that sound good, any suggestions??Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-51415277316622606092008-10-21T16:33:00.003-07:002008-10-21T19:59:51.161-07:00Busy busy and a sewing first.<div style="text-align: center;">We've been busy busy around here. In a good way but man has the housework been neglected. For the next couple days I will be in catch-up mode. We took I don't know how many pictures so I have lots of blog posts lined up, which is great for busy days, or days when I can't come up with anything to write about.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Guess what I did(not much of a guess with pictures down below I guess ;) I made clothes. Oh yes I did! I haven't sewn clothes since high school, well anything I finished or want to lay claim to anyways. And I'd never before sewn kids clothes.<br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCyXu7aLyhYLnIo1TfzIHQn-zh8DrYjRwE2Vi9kN_edMRPVzdJqAamjV_mD10ifaCyBDrOpD_PgjMZTpvbXfPgzzVtzPeedvgX4r272yZBZYHFiAOb-WKSiIPyVet19-rJW_Y/s1600-h/DSC_8797.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCyXu7aLyhYLnIo1TfzIHQn-zh8DrYjRwE2Vi9kN_edMRPVzdJqAamjV_mD10ifaCyBDrOpD_PgjMZTpvbXfPgzzVtzPeedvgX4r272yZBZYHFiAOb-WKSiIPyVet19-rJW_Y/s400/DSC_8797.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259762762246670290" border="0" /></a>It was for my beautiful little baby niece who turned 1 in September. I thought I would break out of my box and try something new for her. I've been wanting to sew for my girls but hit a block I guess. I do that, it's a fear of the unknown, fear of change, fear of failure thing. But no more!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWJq9hyphenhyphen9njDYFJ01W6sxZNjHrr7i72SQscsIP9B00KmyuU7kQWbcHkavJ55_ULF4ctNrYMQsOPMUpiG71qWlgQBH4KTqQOPONwvnXnB7emUp0pwuDg_84xyhgQzbxXMzhmGobj/s1600-h/DSC_8792.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWJq9hyphenhyphen9njDYFJ01W6sxZNjHrr7i72SQscsIP9B00KmyuU7kQWbcHkavJ55_ULF4ctNrYMQsOPMUpiG71qWlgQBH4KTqQOPONwvnXnB7emUp0pwuDg_84xyhgQzbxXMzhmGobj/s400/DSC_8792.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259762756323875506" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I had set backs of course, but nothing I didn't figure out eventually. It took me longer than it should have, but I'm sure I'll get quicker with experience.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2O5FR2uXe2w8Z8C0cK7FxkZEP9BdoEJlIXAtaRMa-uFNesQBpBrmo6FqtJJ0TuWF_wM8rs4yyCmI7fQCTDJZbmjRlqGJEp7WorPMeh-cTqTOOVRHzi9KoTB6lozspUnJiP76M/s1600-h/DSC_8789.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2O5FR2uXe2w8Z8C0cK7FxkZEP9BdoEJlIXAtaRMa-uFNesQBpBrmo6FqtJJ0TuWF_wM8rs4yyCmI7fQCTDJZbmjRlqGJEp7WorPMeh-cTqTOOVRHzi9KoTB6lozspUnJiP76M/s400/DSC_8789.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259762768690982626" border="0" /></a>I'm not sure you can see in the pictures but it's made from some really nice soft lightweight cord. And the cherries? I LOVE the cherries. I was really hoping they would be appreciated and they seemed to be, so YAY!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyJE-aZnX7LuwF6Ha9UTh1ND7Vq_XAsRoEOoEGYL6tUG64QCegr1oslGBgpcFqnuAQiZZZNrhyphenhyphen-oNmI4qu6Bfr3LMAvTyl6JdDi28gKksby1BdPB4fTqo2Kg0U6YcT5reHjR7/s1600-h/DSC_8791.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyJE-aZnX7LuwF6Ha9UTh1ND7Vq_XAsRoEOoEGYL6tUG64QCegr1oslGBgpcFqnuAQiZZZNrhyphenhyphen-oNmI4qu6Bfr3LMAvTyl6JdDi28gKksby1BdPB4fTqo2Kg0U6YcT5reHjR7/s400/DSC_8791.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259762769290231938" border="0" /></a>They were both patterns from Ottobre, Spring 1/2008. I made the pants a little longer because I was afraid they would be to capri'ish for the winter. I also added belt loops and the belt. I followed directions and sewed the elastic right to the waistband, then regretted it as Sophia is really really tiny and I was afraid the pants would slide right off her. So I just added the belt loops to help her keep them up. I think they ended up being pretty cute.<br /> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyi7dq3Nw7KTYYDHP04s0HzzhCW3bp3_3jiCu6fffzMq0_-ve2iJsGUbFdtTvSIrWQRtbQTRff5GffpSg2KoPRErexr3lzhD1b94nU1nzgupgZWXkPr6zmpZPH2IcEfBjtOkr/s1600-h/DSC_8794.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyi7dq3Nw7KTYYDHP04s0HzzhCW3bp3_3jiCu6fffzMq0_-ve2iJsGUbFdtTvSIrWQRtbQTRff5GffpSg2KoPRErexr3lzhD1b94nU1nzgupgZWXkPr6zmpZPH2IcEfBjtOkr/s400/DSC_8794.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259762784125695746" border="0" /></a></div>Can you see the gather detail below that first line of navy? I love little details like that. It was also fun to learn how to put in those detail stripes. I think little details like that make all the difference in the world. My only reservation was that I don't have a serger, I really feel things don't look as nice(on the inside) without it. So I double folded hems wherever possible to make it looked more finished, but I wish I had a serger. I doubt I will make to many outfits to give away until I do. Of course, that is the perfectionist in me coming out. Sigh. But it really was fun and I have a list a mile long of things I want to make for Christmas gifts and this has given me confidence to go for it! But first, I have to finish Pay's Halloween costume!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-51287899299719808842008-10-16T16:51:00.002-07:002008-10-16T17:09:36.036-07:00Sewing Lessons<div style="text-align: center;">I don't usually sew during the day. The only time I really can is during little ones nap and pulling everything out and putting everything away doesn't leave me much time to actually sew. Let alone all the other things that need doing like household chores(blah), or a 4 year who needs 1-on-1 time and likes to "help"<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHuDXdIqHmwXX93VYjRmkLLrifz1gJnyttimrnUVrLgB1UgUSwdWGZyshNd3Xqelifvi71nBzxf2jVzWRrwxUN36d69E-aNpFSJhF4uykm5eUl4qPYZf63s2DenbLhty-4XGa/s1600-h/DSC_8136.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHuDXdIqHmwXX93VYjRmkLLrifz1gJnyttimrnUVrLgB1UgUSwdWGZyshNd3Xqelifvi71nBzxf2jVzWRrwxUN36d69E-aNpFSJhF4uykm5eUl4qPYZf63s2DenbLhty-4XGa/s400/DSC_8136.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257904825114603234" border="0" /></a>Well, last week I tried to sew during the day as I had a deadline. I did get some done, but not much. And despite the fact that I let Pay have some much coveted computer time, she was still much more interested in what I was doing. "What are you doing? What are you making? What is it going to look like when it's done? Will you make me one? Can I help? Can I sew?" I finally decided it was time to stop and spend some time with my big girl.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoaTZhcugAt4iLdG95cbVPTthdNInRqlP-LEsQBNoDi7q8fN9E7synBPMjRqJvSuedfkvVSJziHVv92gJRTYDUQFXfxBRJrAxX-b2OQn1hZ_pn67PfWN3q1BtYQNFr3l-B2hc/s1600-h/DSC_8137.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoaTZhcugAt4iLdG95cbVPTthdNInRqlP-LEsQBNoDi7q8fN9E7synBPMjRqJvSuedfkvVSJziHVv92gJRTYDUQFXfxBRJrAxX-b2OQn1hZ_pn67PfWN3q1BtYQNFr3l-B2hc/s400/DSC_8137.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257904827757990994" border="0" /></a>Since she was showing so much interest in sewing(YAY!) I thought we'd start at the beginning and pulled out an embroidery hoop, needle, and thread for her.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjol4r7DMQx3IW8R00utHdSix9yKJ34qAfdwv1T4FDxjJfBCP2J2SRV4XmBSXEDxnW-uYC5SS5wBX09bRRuXedF2FLiyt_J76y2TEOv8h_IN9rYGx9XvyB31lDUJ6TxmYspA5kl/s1600-h/DSC_8138.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjol4r7DMQx3IW8R00utHdSix9yKJ34qAfdwv1T4FDxjJfBCP2J2SRV4XmBSXEDxnW-uYC5SS5wBX09bRRuXedF2FLiyt_J76y2TEOv8h_IN9rYGx9XvyB31lDUJ6TxmYspA5kl/s400/DSC_8138.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257904834250137954" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">She did quite well, only a few tangles I had to help her with, and of course threading the needle with various colours.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSzK2XDqn4WC4xwxcjr3w8GHVscz9WjAHotidY1EzPugRKVcoaMnGR8i2k-dWybrFiYVLGrtibQm9Xg0fZBdHGlEPJltmyK-AyODbjnDk8fm0CBYlnmIGtsy7tSd4avz2wfJI/s1600-h/DSC_8143.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSzK2XDqn4WC4xwxcjr3w8GHVscz9WjAHotidY1EzPugRKVcoaMnGR8i2k-dWybrFiYVLGrtibQm9Xg0fZBdHGlEPJltmyK-AyODbjnDk8fm0CBYlnmIGtsy7tSd4avz2wfJI/s400/DSC_8143.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257904835281916930" border="0" /></a>She insisted she was sewing a skirt. A skirt for Sophia(her cousin whose birthday it was). But I claimed it, insisting that mama needed to keep her first effort at sewing. I told her she could do more for gifts soon. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it. A special pillow? Frame it? All I know is it's much to beautiful to hide away.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-34690540368716211912008-10-15T15:37:00.003-07:002008-10-15T15:42:19.149-07:00This is where I direct you to a sweet give-awayI don't really feel like posting today so I thought I'd direct you over to <a href="http://pigtailsandsnails.blogspot.com/2008/10/quilt-giveaway.html">Pigtails and Snails</a> where there is a give-away in progress for an absolutely beautiful quilt.<br /><br />Now I'm off to wake Payton who has fallen asleep on the floor.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-71204584466924099972008-10-14T08:06:00.002-07:002008-10-14T08:09:17.937-07:00It's voting day!Just reminding everyone(In Canada) to go and be counted!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-87520172020624440122008-10-13T09:25:00.003-07:002008-10-13T13:21:19.663-07:00Happy Thanksgiving *edited to add Payton's listAs much as I am looking forward to turkey dinner I am so conscious this year of all I have to be thankful for. Even my worst day would be someones best day. I've been making an effort to be thankful everyday, I'm thinking I should have a thankful journal because Thanksgiving should last more than one day a year!<br /><br />I'm thankful for(in no particular order):<br /><br />My wonderful husband<br />My beautiful girls<br />My Mom<br />The rest of my family<br />Close friends<br />A great place to live<br />Food on the table<br />Rod has a job he loves.<br />My health and the health of my family<br />That I can stay home with my girls<br />I live in Canada<br />I am free to be who I am and believe what I do<br />A warm place to sleep<br />The phone and the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Internet</span> that keep me connected.<br />My renewed creative energy<br />A God that loves me<br />Faith that gets me through the days I don't feel so thankful.<br /><br />*Edited to add this*<br /><br />Payton and I talked about Thanksgiving and I asked her what she was thankful for she said:<br /><br />Going to see Oma<br />Daddy<br />Sam Sam<br />Doing art with Mom<br />The new playground at School<br />Being with my Family<br />Flowers<br />Falling leaves<br /><br /><br />Happy Thanksgiving everyone!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-9542349990808084342008-10-11T15:38:00.005-07:002008-10-12T15:31:47.628-07:00October<div style="text-align: center;">"O hushed October morning mild,<br />Thy leaves have ripened to the fall;<br />Tomorrow's wind, if it be wild,<br />Should waste them all.<br />The crows above the forest call;<br />Tomorrow they may form and go.<br />O hushed October morning mild,<br />Begin the hours of this day slow.<br />Make the day seem to us less brief.<br />Hearts not averse to being beguiled,<br />Beguile us in the way you know.<br />Release one leaf at break of day;<br />At noon release another leaf;<br />One from our trees, one far away."<br /><br />- Robert Frost, October<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I found this Poem posted over at <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/">SouleMama</a> and just love it. It describes October so well, I thought I would share it with you as well.<br /><br />We went for a walk a couple days ago, with no destination in mind. We do that often since we've moved out here, just go and see what we find. I love it. Usually we find something new, have an adventure of some kind. I love exploring. Well this time we hit fun big time when I spied the biggest pile of leaves I have ever seen. You should have seen Pay's face as she looked at us, face shining with excitement, to see if she was allowed to jump in. And jump she did!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LXxLMjvl2-hbrNve8BkjW5MzlutDLhLHcSgVa3lIhUxvJLEwMRmlVnkOQU2-kKUmLqTmyXJ9I-iZX2QZ7GqoKh0clMHQN8Z4krtrKxpioQesviLdvwAR8lBkz1r7xoLrzSuD/s1600-h/DSC_8334.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LXxLMjvl2-hbrNve8BkjW5MzlutDLhLHcSgVa3lIhUxvJLEwMRmlVnkOQU2-kKUmLqTmyXJ9I-iZX2QZ7GqoKh0clMHQN8Z4krtrKxpioQesviLdvwAR8lBkz1r7xoLrzSuD/s400/DSC_8334.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256318454359194754" border="0" /></a><br />Sam wasn't to sure at first, it was her first time being plunked in the middle of a pile of leaves. This was her covering her face when leaves were coming down on her head.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqyJBPejQ3KhvPxwYcRfQ3O1Efr5EH90QFhy_oEOciUxt0SQe1DapeDH5Tre2Apw7v2qQtEK9jnCeQiBCQdhvAIIs5ct-J2-sQCmApxrJs0PdNsZZyAJeSADLsU2zdHptvXyu/s1600-h/DSC_8444.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqyJBPejQ3KhvPxwYcRfQ3O1Efr5EH90QFhy_oEOciUxt0SQe1DapeDH5Tre2Apw7v2qQtEK9jnCeQiBCQdhvAIIs5ct-J2-sQCmApxrJs0PdNsZZyAJeSADLsU2zdHptvXyu/s400/DSC_8444.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256318460644570802" border="0" /></a><br />But she figured out this was fun pretty quickly.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh557rdjelt7-J3mWkB6kxbbpSt9U_HxsZa9oD_Io4-ZEtieNvSdgsmrMuGrajbpsOUQNfBYBPc9KhZcuPwN0rn2dUc7ZieUCOLk_xxPPHl2-G8gLlrMZJ6oi7qGeyhkGoW-vuT/s1600-h/DSC_8468.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh557rdjelt7-J3mWkB6kxbbpSt9U_HxsZa9oD_Io4-ZEtieNvSdgsmrMuGrajbpsOUQNfBYBPc9KhZcuPwN0rn2dUc7ZieUCOLk_xxPPHl2-G8gLlrMZJ6oi7qGeyhkGoW-vuT/s400/DSC_8468.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256387669912073106" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXCmbfraUsW7DU0RFVWORCfpqhUvQ-B2a00mLP_NhRiha7PxE06gRv8RA3fhubeIfPSIpt8Xw5DFXIxVbzJL_B9RgR_8f9Ihn7x8hzIqTWoGAkxBnP5kLdlbTGCt93Z9NVjyt/s1600-h/DSC_8497.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXCmbfraUsW7DU0RFVWORCfpqhUvQ-B2a00mLP_NhRiha7PxE06gRv8RA3fhubeIfPSIpt8Xw5DFXIxVbzJL_B9RgR_8f9Ihn7x8hzIqTWoGAkxBnP5kLdlbTGCt93Z9NVjyt/s400/DSC_8497.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256387676179586482" border="0" /></a>I'm thinking this one(below) might make a good Christmas card?<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQLxLFFBiuucAKl48CKZrLWC4xAbS7MOue4lfblSL_N2cGwoZzfg-o7NbTN7uuX5mQaQ5U1Kvie0yhQBEnMkO9E7Kov_oO09G7QzteOk0UjP0NVaUnz9I6d23Bhf0LH8JhUQE/s1600-h/DSC_8372.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQLxLFFBiuucAKl48CKZrLWC4xAbS7MOue4lfblSL_N2cGwoZzfg-o7NbTN7uuX5mQaQ5U1Kvie0yhQBEnMkO9E7Kov_oO09G7QzteOk0UjP0NVaUnz9I6d23Bhf0LH8JhUQE/s400/DSC_8372.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256318449494576530" border="0" /></a><br />I just love the joy on their faces.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_osO6yvXzMCO1l6sK-bQqCDuO1xizQ3uc35h5X1oEvhdgLLLI6Q126_TslN47erSIdnCrtV9tqNWoaaW1x_MLJu1VBfeIlEt2TsvvXVMAVaXbxgrOdXiVyHhDsXYaVF3xWe5/s1600-h/DSC_8420.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_osO6yvXzMCO1l6sK-bQqCDuO1xizQ3uc35h5X1oEvhdgLLLI6Q126_TslN47erSIdnCrtV9tqNWoaaW1x_MLJu1VBfeIlEt2TsvvXVMAVaXbxgrOdXiVyHhDsXYaVF3xWe5/s400/DSC_8420.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256318458174236274" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3iHofypcwwAbbiItKKVwBIvEQDglvieMsrFGZp_sN8MifAWGmVNL-CcSTYZxm5-QrxC8EMI9m1xV3XlzD-ZevNCQ5bcTw91eKjUVcKYoXiepQPZz1rBhNvk1qRxSxeEryOKH/s1600-h/DSC_8428.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3iHofypcwwAbbiItKKVwBIvEQDglvieMsrFGZp_sN8MifAWGmVNL-CcSTYZxm5-QrxC8EMI9m1xV3XlzD-ZevNCQ5bcTw91eKjUVcKYoXiepQPZz1rBhNvk1qRxSxeEryOKH/s400/DSC_8428.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256318458528828338" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Just to give you a perspective on the size of the pile. Can you spot Sam? That's Pay jumping into the pile.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmL0DVQoPSlpHJNa9E6Gbn_3LY79PRty92sygc4_hsMyRpFpf6iJ0zQInHfYMVuoISsUD_BQL9FuYT2s_ApQWUvSuYGj8IT2fWU8QniJacUhVEux4eW1csdISFsIzYpqpeCW7/s1600-h/DSC_8488.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmL0DVQoPSlpHJNa9E6Gbn_3LY79PRty92sygc4_hsMyRpFpf6iJ0zQInHfYMVuoISsUD_BQL9FuYT2s_ApQWUvSuYGj8IT2fWU8QniJacUhVEux4eW1csdISFsIzYpqpeCW7/s400/DSC_8488.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256387663527423298" border="0" /></a>Taking a break in a bed of leaves. I've decided that the name for Payton's hair colour is now fallen leaves. Or Autumn leaves? She blended right in.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_am84kGdNc2d9SgKvvzBT9b9YMc1j8pZmqIqKybwL4hcqI3EHILthr8MsjQvl8xmEfcuaGSrV3Gt-HM1Swb8FQb-22SP8GnQ0zsXHAUlY5obss674QI2sOIOVvq8LOFrOGv0/s1600-h/DSC_8461.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_am84kGdNc2d9SgKvvzBT9b9YMc1j8pZmqIqKybwL4hcqI3EHILthr8MsjQvl8xmEfcuaGSrV3Gt-HM1Swb8FQb-22SP8GnQ0zsXHAUlY5obss674QI2sOIOVvq8LOFrOGv0/s400/DSC_8461.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256387663780429714" border="0" /></a>That would be me who had to get in on the fun being tackled.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibX9xZd3RPdjaGEwcK_Xmym7FGjMwvn3cRZspsLblhszy9kV1fR-snSQHY7_Sqzy8g-DgGjF_x4Epa1GHSWJDYlHHyav9bKRoWHeqwPlXWMiCEHUJ7jxcLrgNFON7n-d44wzu5/s1600-h/DSC_8545.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibX9xZd3RPdjaGEwcK_Xmym7FGjMwvn3cRZspsLblhszy9kV1fR-snSQHY7_Sqzy8g-DgGjF_x4Epa1GHSWJDYlHHyav9bKRoWHeqwPlXWMiCEHUJ7jxcLrgNFON7n-d44wzu5/s400/DSC_8545.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256387667903660306" border="0" /></a><br />It was a good day!<br /></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-37866175016428942852008-10-10T11:32:00.001-07:002008-10-10T11:37:14.208-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">So this blanket should have been received by it's recipient by now so I'm going to share it with you. I really love this fabric, when I bought it I had no idea what I was going to use it for(I also bought some cowgirls in flannel for the girls, maybe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">jammies</span>?). But when a friend of mine moved to Alberta, I teased her about becoming a cowgirl. Then when she had a baby boy I knew where this fabric was headed!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3h6rhc3JvyRrUzeRve5yWKjaFWoFoq5vHu2RqM6yHu_mnDe1D-_WUWTiEpF-DkFlII7s3J_xKPGjdOfm4Cj5cetvHTwMwh9XfCHdgunO7-aXI1SPy9EAzE263AUInHGqh5_f/s1600-h/DSC_8003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3h6rhc3JvyRrUzeRve5yWKjaFWoFoq5vHu2RqM6yHu_mnDe1D-_WUWTiEpF-DkFlII7s3J_xKPGjdOfm4Cj5cetvHTwMwh9XfCHdgunO7-aXI1SPy9EAzE263AUInHGqh5_f/s400/DSC_8003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255586587501608178" border="0" /></a>Because there is so much going on in the fabric and just love it the way it is I decided to keep it really simple. Added really soft dotted <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">minky</span> to the back and top stitched in red to finish and ta-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">da</span>! A cute little cowpoke <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">blankie</span> for a very cute little man!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidng_TlbH3vqfkZ4SEzFHrV-eJJV8S_9IX3j_avznB8nGo4xDKnCm97Yg40S9amrHe2wy4dV_bOC3J9laXBDPZesk9u-qqa_e9zBuMCKfLGRQY-l-FiueJfqb-9_Q6vqNOitad/s1600-h/DSC_8006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidng_TlbH3vqfkZ4SEzFHrV-eJJV8S_9IX3j_avznB8nGo4xDKnCm97Yg40S9amrHe2wy4dV_bOC3J9laXBDPZesk9u-qqa_e9zBuMCKfLGRQY-l-FiueJfqb-9_Q6vqNOitad/s400/DSC_8006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255586588447912146" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Is everyone enjoying fall? It's by far my favorite time of year. From Oct through Dec. The gorgeous chill in the air, the tree's putting on their party clothes, being able to wear sweaters(I love sweaters), fuzzy socks, pumpkin patch visits, and so much more. I'm feeling an urge to knit this fall which is really strange since I don't knit, or crochet. It's on my want to learn list but I have so much else to do for now that it will have to wait. I'm thinking after Christmas I'll give it a go. I'll probably be posting for help with that! I guess in the meantime I'll have to settle for some fall/Christmas sewing, of which I have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">a lot</span>! Oh, I guess I should think about Halloween costumes first!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrA8nhq6Bwc7xe2TXPulgBT4CHlFvZ8PVvXoFiD6LDYJ1eo4KnjtCpdBSSaUYRgjcm5-MZlchYmJ0nfaWSq1yMm82aX2dtrceTFH2EYgJyKE-bzSEfHofeBwtVLxx-9nsTrkyw/s1600-h/DSC_8005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrA8nhq6Bwc7xe2TXPulgBT4CHlFvZ8PVvXoFiD6LDYJ1eo4KnjtCpdBSSaUYRgjcm5-MZlchYmJ0nfaWSq1yMm82aX2dtrceTFH2EYgJyKE-bzSEfHofeBwtVLxx-9nsTrkyw/s400/DSC_8005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255586599434646178" border="0" /></a>Is't this little guy with the lasso cute? I think he's my favorite!<br /></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-71026005495325838352008-09-30T14:18:00.006-07:002008-10-01T14:09:11.771-07:00The resultsNow that I have finally given the blanket to it's recipient I can share it with you(I have another one to share but can't put it up yet.) I absolutly loved working on this blanket and was happy with how it turned out. I didn't want to give it away! This blanket it made from wool sweaters that have be felted(or fulled) in the wash. This binds up the wool and makes it thick, dense, and strong, but leaves the wool a nice texture. I used this book as a guide, <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1600610072?ie=UTF8&tag=lovlivher-20&linkCode=as2&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=1600610072">Warm Fuzzies 30 Sweet Felted Projects</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.ca/e/ir?t=lovlivher-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1600610072" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy0cCupi_FwaSalfDH9RyEhE-3KYyAFoLAA-ne_NzpP2aVKetS6borRBq3qj5ydNh-cvb1PoDA3TsAjUQp_pb-o6BeKXRu8V7pE7sRV7AOmRQuAKqdctVTzhXzlYe_aCPY3YrA/s1600-h/DSC_7990.JPG" /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy0cCupi_FwaSalfDH9RyEhE-3KYyAFoLAA-ne_NzpP2aVKetS6borRBq3qj5ydNh-cvb1PoDA3TsAjUQp_pb-o6BeKXRu8V7pE7sRV7AOmRQuAKqdctVTzhXzlYe_aCPY3YrA/s400/DSC_7990.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251931070733543874" border="0" /></a>It was made from 4 sweaters, and I still have some pieces left for other projects. I just noticed that the green sweater pieces look brown here. They are actually a moss green.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8qcO0nnE5JCOClc8rLgKfikOcw5Z1pOkXuqFqGTMpGb4o-sXox_sCv6OXtpZi7_bXPGDBwH7OpfFxmOXrzgE3O4OSU71rJtltnKxGhc1mXCZ5pLVxwQUZrRvBIKCCJWLVPuy/s1600-h/DSC_8008.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8qcO0nnE5JCOClc8rLgKfikOcw5Z1pOkXuqFqGTMpGb4o-sXox_sCv6OXtpZi7_bXPGDBwH7OpfFxmOXrzgE3O4OSU71rJtltnKxGhc1mXCZ5pLVxwQUZrRvBIKCCJWLVPuy/s400/DSC_8008.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251931047245803410" border="0" /></a>Here is the full thing laid out. I didn't think to measure it, but it's bigger than a baby blanket but smaller than crib size I think. I made it longer than the book suggested. It will be able to be used for quite awhile.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5kPD-RquFTx6uJCiQyjCa4B6QaQ_0x2wdJ5NFyGiDQ6AAFWvKpe94Iov1hCKaipnDc3cxXLrMiGo7xjeONWo9GWs_LXL7gYlzFEn3wx649pFTMA8yOPwuo-3ZntcTOwZS9xa/s1600-h/DSC_7986.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5kPD-RquFTx6uJCiQyjCa4B6QaQ_0x2wdJ5NFyGiDQ6AAFWvKpe94Iov1hCKaipnDc3cxXLrMiGo7xjeONWo9GWs_LXL7gYlzFEn3wx649pFTMA8yOPwuo-3ZntcTOwZS9xa/s400/DSC_7986.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251993350214672818" border="0" /></a>I added a B to the pocket, that was the babies first initial, but I guess it could also stand for Baby. It's far from centered, I think next time I'll sketch the design that I want on first then felt on top of that instead of free handing.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQ1igZNvnPsf1W3ebn7O4AtPFYAk65-97Ez7oDM4gEry5Z71RXK2MmkE-6y4mzw_J7Jj8edKai1kY0w0je_jt7YrhAjGq-AQBmzfkFfXteIt8NtCX0ukNoTPow34ehLVjtkDn/s1600-h/DSC_7987.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQ1igZNvnPsf1W3ebn7O4AtPFYAk65-97Ez7oDM4gEry5Z71RXK2MmkE-6y4mzw_J7Jj8edKai1kY0w0je_jt7YrhAjGq-AQBmzfkFfXteIt8NtCX0ukNoTPow34ehLVjtkDn/s400/DSC_7987.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251993355172280994" border="0" /></a>I dry felted the B directly onto the wool using wool roving(carded but unspun wool). You use a special needle to poke at it until it blends with the wool backing and becomes firm. It was great fun, I see more dry felting in my future!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTx3rWFQZwojRt6uVNCyP5_cu2pjGCtM9xeLeaj3nbBBgYXbVy_kRdQh5HJJfRA3o8l9uiLgK18EWz9bMdIbH9XCSZ9gsI4BX_BGPjm4KjJvTDOxxthFS1xiD7u0bpVr-nbiLq/s1600-h/DSC_7989.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTx3rWFQZwojRt6uVNCyP5_cu2pjGCtM9xeLeaj3nbBBgYXbVy_kRdQh5HJJfRA3o8l9uiLgK18EWz9bMdIbH9XCSZ9gsI4BX_BGPjm4KjJvTDOxxthFS1xiD7u0bpVr-nbiLq/s400/DSC_7989.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251931060208839986" border="0" /></a>Close up of the leaf and little x embellishment I put on. I just sewed a simple x with embroidery thread. The backing is flannel which I found in my stash. I totally lucked out with that because I was so excited to get going all of a sudden I realized I didn't know what I was putting on the back and it was the night before the shower! I don't have much for flannel, or boy suitable fabric in general. I do think the pattern of the flannel works with this blanket though because it's all wintery, I think that suites a wool blanket perfectly!<br /><br />On the weekend is my Niece's 1st birthday party, so today I am busy scheming up something I can make for her! And I am also starting on the girls Halloween costumes, an advent calendar, and various Christmas gifts! It's going to be a busy 3 months! OIY! ONLY 3 MONTHS! Smile! I love it!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-20451462952619757982008-09-26T11:03:00.006-07:002008-10-01T14:08:49.859-07:00BalanceI've been having trouble finding balance lately. It's not a new thing for me, I think it has something to do with not being very organized. I have days when I get tons done at home but feel I didn't spend enough quality time with the girls. And days when I spend tons of quality time with the girls and make sure we get outside time, and we all get enough creative time(which is as important for me as it is for them), but then my household duties get neglected and I get frustrated with myself. I'm sure there is a happy medium that will work for us I just can't seem to find it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWkVVNk-5HlvmTOmZn-RgKV_KYmCVsOInWNZ2962uo2T3-b_NA9GXbP8FcFuAoMg-ywrcO9Lz-lRIIhRIH3jSxP61GD54vcGt_OYV0CMwE3L9FozJ5R4nBh7wwu6gCK3i_WtR/s1600-h/DSC_7923.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWkVVNk-5HlvmTOmZn-RgKV_KYmCVsOInWNZ2962uo2T3-b_NA9GXbP8FcFuAoMg-ywrcO9Lz-lRIIhRIH3jSxP61GD54vcGt_OYV0CMwE3L9FozJ5R4nBh7wwu6gCK3i_WtR/s400/DSC_7923.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250436806284669698" border="0" /></a>I know I am a person who thrives on routine, yet I rebel against structure. Or at least the idea of structured routine. I want my days to be fluid, to be able to embrace a sudden change of plan. But I know I need more routine than I have, and I really know that Payton does. She is a go go go-er, whose first question in the morning is "So what are we doing today?" And if I know, I answer and she'll respond with "how about after that?" or "what are we eating?". She really is a kid who thrives on routine.<br /><br />I have been researching online what works for other families and trying to decide what I want to try with ours. I need some sort of menu plan, I'm always frustrated when it comes to deciding what to eat because I've waited until it's time to start to decide what to have. I'm also horribly bored with what we've been eating, which leaves me uninspired when it comes to cooking. So a menu plan, and shopping list is on the list.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFMKLO5OnjRZcpz7On_0brG4JvaG5bSPpB3Cs3kX-Ue6PVV7AhILxW86xJg-jbW4k99g1L3SZrlRxY5ly46VqElFySlPwP00xv0qhaOAaOJJUl5LM4dB0kHEk67y6kxAWNtiA/s1600-h/DSC_7840.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFMKLO5OnjRZcpz7On_0brG4JvaG5bSPpB3Cs3kX-Ue6PVV7AhILxW86xJg-jbW4k99g1L3SZrlRxY5ly46VqElFySlPwP00xv0qhaOAaOJJUl5LM4dB0kHEk67y6kxAWNtiA/s400/DSC_7840.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250430462611414162" border="0" /></a><br />Also I need a plan of attack when it comes to housework. Something easy to maintain. It's not important to me to have a spotless house all the time. I mean lets be realistic, I have 2 small children. If spotless was a priority then something else(like playing with my kids) would have to suffer. But I do like things neat with things in their "homes" when not in use. I've done a lot of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">decluttering</span> and that has certainly helped. And I don't want to spend hours <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">upon</span> hours <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">everyday</span> on housework either. I've been trying to decide what would work as far as a basic housework schedule goes. Certain things on certain days? A general list with so many things to be done each day and I pick according to what I feel like doing? Setting aside a specific hour each day instead of just doing things when I decide to? Don't know, but there has to be something that is easy to maintain.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjds-fPybrwAPKQBeqPrDgM-HE4-jk1eauerG6YuxYPx6hqRv94DUrG5jqOqt7zIe7kwOm1xfPuVlKfyTN_eRW6ImEdI_g3ZmYIXjhiEjinmTpt2MrF0cZJMaDEDZnCkawflK5l/s1600-h/DSC_7887.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjds-fPybrwAPKQBeqPrDgM-HE4-jk1eauerG6YuxYPx6hqRv94DUrG5jqOqt7zIe7kwOm1xfPuVlKfyTN_eRW6ImEdI_g3ZmYIXjhiEjinmTpt2MrF0cZJMaDEDZnCkawflK5l/s400/DSC_7887.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250430468819607106" border="0" /></a><br />I need to work in time spent outdoors everyday, I've been feeling a little low the last few days and I really believe it's due to the grey rainy weather that we've been having. So I really need to grab some sunshine when I can, and if it's not sunny some fresh air at least. I always feel uplifted after soaking in some of God's great outdoors.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3o8Is6_ReD9JJBuctLGCNx6aFJkS5d6KXj9VzYxfdGmYH3X46KmlaQfChPVGJgnNfLhakWvuvhdrP6BLOTIu7BFl_uvOWXJz7UjPcKxV2sebdnOzLIsIBchIHj2W_Adiypf93/s1600-h/DSC_7899.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3o8Is6_ReD9JJBuctLGCNx6aFJkS5d6KXj9VzYxfdGmYH3X46KmlaQfChPVGJgnNfLhakWvuvhdrP6BLOTIu7BFl_uvOWXJz7UjPcKxV2sebdnOzLIsIBchIHj2W_Adiypf93/s400/DSC_7899.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250430469813758450" border="0" /></a><br />Other things that I know will make me feel more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">balance</span>(whether I am or aren't <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">lol</span>) are getting enough rest and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">exercising</span>. I've turned into a horrible night owl and need to concentrate on getting to bed before midnight on a regular basis. Early I don't think is realistic for me but I think in bed by 11 is reasonable.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9QA9I2lK10lE9rTG8HF3Dz0YWVhpEzbZVBEOOsDF3XOc5mH0aVVX_Q7c9WeHuRgkUzfWTDWmeMHaPQZ1WrvDRQyHS5auSWKy0URmulchbtK_9s9LX2BD0Pq4yLYANS6QYx3Tn/s1600-h/DSC_7914.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9QA9I2lK10lE9rTG8HF3Dz0YWVhpEzbZVBEOOsDF3XOc5mH0aVVX_Q7c9WeHuRgkUzfWTDWmeMHaPQZ1WrvDRQyHS5auSWKy0URmulchbtK_9s9LX2BD0Pq4yLYANS6QYx3Tn/s400/DSC_7914.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250430472145430626" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://simplemom.net/">Simple Mom</a> has been very helpful for me, if you haven't checked out her <a href="http://simplemom.net/">site</a> you should. She had a great series lately entitled <a href="http://simplemom.net/the-6-keys-to-a-disorganized-unproductive-day-at-home/">How to be disorganized and unproductive at home</a>, which I will be re-reading. I also downloaded her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ebook</span>, <a href="http://simplemom.net/springcleaning/">Spring Cleaning for normal people</a>. Which looks great, I've printed it out and am going to give it a good read. I'm hoping to find some solid inspiration there.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36njXE8PLuTha-Uiqk_U6F8hFKNpxMDLIunNET8tazbB1ErGoghbM25ZwwPtPAlrOgXYBZ0N2bzBMQIZCeyl23CmIYYN3KxTXrMo7COLyA66NW1z36_TUrPAoYR48JKdkQDRl/s1600-h/DSC_7917.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36njXE8PLuTha-Uiqk_U6F8hFKNpxMDLIunNET8tazbB1ErGoghbM25ZwwPtPAlrOgXYBZ0N2bzBMQIZCeyl23CmIYYN3KxTXrMo7COLyA66NW1z36_TUrPAoYR48JKdkQDRl/s400/DSC_7917.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250430472751183554" border="0" /></a><br />So what works for everyone out there? What helps you keep balance in your lives? Cleaning schedules? Meal plans? Share any words of wisdom you have for me, as well as any websites/links you've found helpful. I think this will be a continuing topic for me until I get this figured out!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-58746048023767439502008-09-24T10:54:00.006-07:002008-10-01T14:08:17.514-07:00My helperI was talking to a friend yesterday about how Payton likes to wash the floor, which reminded me I had taken pictures of the last time and thought I would share.<br /><br />My Payton likes to help. And anyone with a 4 year old knows how much "help" they can be! But I really want to encourage helping and make her feel like she's making a contribution not that I'm going to re-do it after she's done. So when she wanted to help me wash the floor(one of her favorite things to help with, I think it's all about the bubbles) I help her get started, remind her that the carpet is not to get wet, and that the floor needs to be dry when done(she creates a bit of a flood), and let her go at it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqDRxZhZ8esnz-Rmvo5XRPp-vLLlv6uexW-LigQvCARqGqcKu1-kijZth9mIR17Zo9JERHuSqzVxsRVP3_hRORGDXYtUXkaDhWRjU6lOst1-lK7dCOiONQo9gGtiLDhyrSpYR/s1600-h/DSC_7211.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqDRxZhZ8esnz-Rmvo5XRPp-vLLlv6uexW-LigQvCARqGqcKu1-kijZth9mIR17Zo9JERHuSqzVxsRVP3_hRORGDXYtUXkaDhWRjU6lOst1-lK7dCOiONQo9gGtiLDhyrSpYR/s400/DSC_7211.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249651363056317458" border="0" /></a>She and the floor get oh so wet(biting tongue).<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LwWdR1mZha69aTzhQX81lV4d1Fzp7c-xqthLXcxK29Iz-_AnQo2QQBU2CZuO79jDbAFGjGOKCvse6zstpz6Gd7DxnXbDZSHIYw1-Ec20Tdk4cOisORmavlLMpgE1bhF8QthN/s1600-h/DSC_7214.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LwWdR1mZha69aTzhQX81lV4d1Fzp7c-xqthLXcxK29Iz-_AnQo2QQBU2CZuO79jDbAFGjGOKCvse6zstpz6Gd7DxnXbDZSHIYw1-Ec20Tdk4cOisORmavlLMpgE1bhF8QthN/s400/DSC_7214.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249651369971957954" border="0" /></a>But things do get washed.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwT5Bz8JxDTdJhBWzrhKZ8bR43cFM3lkHkf8v71CZOtsPSWqBx-I6aId9f6QVQA_JYjWIAEbloUUenDUu9opEqsv4qyLWnnbHRjjdEW7PxkVBQt4kPbqG31nRbQHmPIeXn3JqR/s1600-h/DSC_7218.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwT5Bz8JxDTdJhBWzrhKZ8bR43cFM3lkHkf8v71CZOtsPSWqBx-I6aId9f6QVQA_JYjWIAEbloUUenDUu9opEqsv4qyLWnnbHRjjdEW7PxkVBQt4kPbqG31nRbQHmPIeXn3JqR/s400/DSC_7218.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249651378948722082" border="0" /></a>Including toes.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZLPmK5SzZaUHMjHh8yIDqpMEVdf0V17ZHevoN-003EtR4Ib9krHaXqS0HnYyM3UgkwYv75W0Inss90e1m9Zma_YD5fe2mAsD39k2NPUMRQHnNaxSvPfmdi9-EYmbC_0P6C2gF/s1600-h/DSC_7222.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZLPmK5SzZaUHMjHh8yIDqpMEVdf0V17ZHevoN-003EtR4Ib9krHaXqS0HnYyM3UgkwYv75W0Inss90e1m9Zma_YD5fe2mAsD39k2NPUMRQHnNaxSvPfmdi9-EYmbC_0P6C2gF/s400/DSC_7222.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249651386073984802" border="0" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154791.post-6578850253480465462008-09-20T17:35:00.003-07:002008-10-01T14:07:44.116-07:00Because I'm crazyI decided sometime last week to make a blanket for a baby shower on Sun. Then I decided I would do it out of recycled wool sweaters, from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1600610072?ie=UTF8&tag=lovlivher-20&linkCode=as2&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=1600610072">Warm Fuzzies 30 Sweet Felted Projects</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.ca/e/ir?t=lovlivher-20&l=as2&o=15&a=1600610072" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> Nothing like a last minute project that you've never tried before. So last night I decided which sweaters to use(didn't get before pictures, Darn!) and felted them up in the washer. So far today the pieces are cut and ready to sew. Now I need to feed my kids and get them in bed so I can sew. What do you think? Am I getting any sleep tonight? I'm not sure. Lol!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12134673148360609256noreply@blogger.com4