tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9676441128342802762024-03-04T21:46:57.734-08:00MamaGoose Craft and BakeryRecipes, Cards, Scrapbooking, Printables for home and church, and a little bit of everything.Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-24773873690494383552016-05-30T12:21:00.003-07:002016-05-30T12:21:48.712-07:00[In Full Bloom] Dandelion Dust Designs has done it again! <a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/In-Full-Bloom-by-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank">In Full Bloom</a> is a super versatile kit that's on sale right now! I love the main colors in this kit - and how there are pops of other colors to balance things out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYswK2rpD0l4TaQjXZ4RhwzhQFZydofiVk6_EH-R17d1pQRviF-4GT6GAaL8DrnrAqlJvs1tPiq8ZZwNvea5rCcV4u-8spms5ezCaFELhRCHGhLof8YzTlykbFY9iWxIHaySOE0ECbk19/s1600/ddd_infullbloom_dddpreview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYswK2rpD0l4TaQjXZ4RhwzhQFZydofiVk6_EH-R17d1pQRviF-4GT6GAaL8DrnrAqlJvs1tPiq8ZZwNvea5rCcV4u-8spms5ezCaFELhRCHGhLof8YzTlykbFY9iWxIHaySOE0ECbk19/s320/ddd_infullbloom_dddpreview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88dVXMh2_kzQ1SgA2v_h28argMrqbuKu30ZdtQD63_pYnTDoUqj5yv4irpE_bFAEALZqo5FzpelJsQ6S1f3rPwHGe8rBPS6kWPO9rQKtJ9QM6ttHwaVYKp4BxlVMTVCKHWj1v1bBTL4lw/s1600/Snickers+Bites+and+Daisies+_+sahindesigns-feb2016-temp2+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88dVXMh2_kzQ1SgA2v_h28argMrqbuKu30ZdtQD63_pYnTDoUqj5yv4irpE_bFAEALZqo5FzpelJsQ6S1f3rPwHGe8rBPS6kWPO9rQKtJ9QM6ttHwaVYKp4BxlVMTVCKHWj1v1bBTL4lw/s320/Snickers+Bites+and+Daisies+_+sahindesigns-feb2016-temp2+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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For my layout, I paired "<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/In-Full-Bloom-by-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank">In Full Bloom</a>" with the Feb2016 Temp2 from Sahin Designs.Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-25867998327735803262016-05-21T10:30:00.002-07:002016-05-21T10:30:51.372-07:00[Easter Weekend 2013] featuring May Life 2016 by Dandelion Dust DesignsIf you're not a *fan* of Dandelion Dust Designs on Facebook, you really should be! Every month, Ginger releases TWO free mini kits - one in the newsletter and one on the Facebook page!<br />
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Today, May Life 2016, was released. The soft color palette is perfect for spring photos! I loved pairing it with a free template (beYOUtiful) from Leaving a Legacy Designs to showcase this photo of Goose and Lills from Easter 2013!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2KdNGc8iT4YD-56S9tDe_hUAIEPsfL5u74ErRzZ-wjOU13sAr9GIEFjgpUgBB8MqHx9XxlO5p_rvivXYzivhHp8yZCUbCAxLmNfxM8_Uf_DCew2CleKbW071UBDtkjnUUpdnjem3pSd5S/s1600/ddd_maylife2016_dddpreview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2KdNGc8iT4YD-56S9tDe_hUAIEPsfL5u74ErRzZ-wjOU13sAr9GIEFjgpUgBB8MqHx9XxlO5p_rvivXYzivhHp8yZCUbCAxLmNfxM8_Uf_DCew2CleKbW071UBDtkjnUUpdnjem3pSd5S/s320/ddd_maylife2016_dddpreview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2s4t2QWcu2psVse4ENr0E9bcWUSdrfB79h1NjQ8acJug75-vpcE59Mf-vx6SqrIlq4VZa13EUl1CBD1wkKnxdhiKbnM6sgGJBNXKRJQsOC1i1_ovM0pycHMXXsPnaKDRTO5Z6N9WmFbHa/s1600/Easter+Weekend+2013+LLD_BEYOUTIFUL_TEMPLATE+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2s4t2QWcu2psVse4ENr0E9bcWUSdrfB79h1NjQ8acJug75-vpcE59Mf-vx6SqrIlq4VZa13EUl1CBD1wkKnxdhiKbnM6sgGJBNXKRJQsOC1i1_ovM0pycHMXXsPnaKDRTO5Z6N9WmFbHa/s320/Easter+Weekend+2013+LLD_BEYOUTIFUL_TEMPLATE+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Details:<br />
Kit: May Life 2016 Facebook Fan Free Mini by Dandelion Dust Designs<br />
Template: BeYOUtiful by Leaving a Legacy DesignsDebhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-51091331273182145212016-05-09T11:47:00.003-07:002016-05-09T11:47:56.423-07:00[Menu Plan Monday] May 9, 2016<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Last week, I somehow aggravated an old injury in my back. Usually when this happens, I am out of commission for a couple of days. I'm on day 10 and still hurting. Last week I didn't do much of anything. We ate out almost every single night. Not good on the checkbook. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This week, still feeling not great, I'm going to attempt the following meal plan. I may need to make adjustments, but I think I kept things simple enough that it will be okay...</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Turkey steak, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Waffles, sausage, eggs, fruit</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Chicken Alfredo with broccoli</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br />BBQ chicken, funeral potatoes, salad<br />Steak, baked potatoes, green beans<br />Cheeseburgers, fries, fruit<br />Ham, eggs, biscuits<br />Cordon bleu pasta, salad, foccacia bread</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And if not, well, cold cereal it is. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u>"I could eat a stick dipped in that sauce" Alfredo...</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Melt 3 TBSP butter with 2 TBSP olive oil.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Stir in 2 tsp minced garlic.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cook and stir for a couple of minutes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whisk in 1 pint heavy cream, salt and pepper to taste.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Heat over medium high heat, stirring frequently, until it starts to simmer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Simmer and stir until sauce thickens.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remove from heat. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whisk in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (the real stuff).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When that's fully melted, whisk in 3/4 cup grated mozzarella.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whisk until melted. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Serve hot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-39044126715246646532016-05-06T09:54:00.004-07:002016-05-06T09:54:51.751-07:00[CLICK!] - new release day for Dandelion Dust Designs<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This seriously might be my favorite kit. Ever.</span><br />
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Click-by-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1r7X24woSGYHaYHGQZGe_Y36aGnETwfGNv4m-WwGYlQQlCEs7IbQ6_UXgfVGVdijMk3K1tC4U1EMtKcH-gnK0upfU1sYPu8Q-sEvqC-xOc_71CnCtXZyE9njyTg4fbjQ5owY15sPxaeji/s320/ddd_click_dddpreview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love the colors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love the elements.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I couldn't decide on just one layout, so I made 2. They're totally different in style and color, but they both use the kit <a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Click-by-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank">Click</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Family Photos '09 - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(also uses the <a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Boys-To-Men-12x12-Templates-CU-Ok.html" target="_blank">Boys to Men Template 2</a>, Designs by Connie Prince)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxXKo2nxjQ0r04Th0TWHPlBJPp3T81twS7A9jkqKSthkUONVr9KmVP-De60djW8CtQdSfEXXmoOZTabXaHvmFDaowYgJDgwogivMyUJYHR5e2U4Pt_w0zP53MNGG-K6CjLfZpFyE19ObL0/s1600/Family+Photos+_+2009+cap_boystomentemps2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxXKo2nxjQ0r04Th0TWHPlBJPp3T81twS7A9jkqKSthkUONVr9KmVP-De60djW8CtQdSfEXXmoOZTabXaHvmFDaowYgJDgwogivMyUJYHR5e2U4Pt_w0zP53MNGG-K6CjLfZpFyE19ObL0/s320/Family+Photos+_+2009+cap_boystomentemps2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sunday Selfies -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(also uses <a href="https://www.pixelscrapper.com/elif-sahin/designs/centered-layout-template-4" target="_blank">Centered Layout Template 4</a> by Sahin Designs)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzS5tqFUObTcSv2On5A9OhORLU6ydLd1nuy0Jb53AOLSPXHRr4bJBPDKMXP9N2KTou01MIou1Wj3JAx_JSVfaT4CXr8QnPj4v_8TphtH_n_2Ei2u1zooK_k2tX55pctcD2A2zegYjFpCh/s1600/Sunday+Selfies+_+sahindesigns_centeredtemplate4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzS5tqFUObTcSv2On5A9OhORLU6ydLd1nuy0Jb53AOLSPXHRr4bJBPDKMXP9N2KTou01MIou1Wj3JAx_JSVfaT4CXr8QnPj4v_8TphtH_n_2Ei2u1zooK_k2tX55pctcD2A2zegYjFpCh/s320/Sunday+Selfies+_+sahindesigns_centeredtemplate4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Click-by-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank">Click!</a> is on sale this week at Gingerscraps. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">**Hint, hint - ALL Dandelion Dust Designs kits are on sale this weekend at Gingerscraps!!**</span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-9720122793379463442016-05-04T17:45:00.000-07:002016-05-04T17:45:47.729-07:00**NEW RELEASE DAY***<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you're looking for a really great patriotic kit - you need to stop over and check out Dandelion Dust Designs' latest kit *<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Freedom-by-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank">FREEDOM</a>* at GingerScraps! At the sale price of $1.50 for the next week - you don't want to miss this one!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I used a template from Tinci Designs paired with FREEDOM to create this layout using a favorite photo from a friend's funeral.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaibSNCYR315GP1Lbvt4hah5B0aNwvvHmcMw6AqRT532MghZgkT-ccUMJlUFKlUKpVqYFheG92mLgdtSnpohyZPc34rr8-w5FA9jNINTNk1GCBEAYmnTMi_X99zBKzLNz50JXmL3yg6Lij/s1600/Steve_Cemetery_Flowers_Tinci_CEAF_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaibSNCYR315GP1Lbvt4hah5B0aNwvvHmcMw6AqRT532MghZgkT-ccUMJlUFKlUKpVqYFheG92mLgdtSnpohyZPc34rr8-w5FA9jNINTNk1GCBEAYmnTMi_X99zBKzLNz50JXmL3yg6Lij/s320/Steve_Cemetery_Flowers_Tinci_CEAF_13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Also - if you missed out on the May Newsletter from Dandelion Dust Designs, I'm sorry. You really should sign up! ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This darling FREE mini kit "Mom's Day" was in the newsletter. You can find newsletter sign-up info at <a href="http://www.dandeliondustdesigns.com/">www.dandeliondustdesigns.com</a> .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I used Centered Template 3 from Sahin Designs and the "Mom's Day" kit to scrap one of the last photos I have with both of my kiddos and me. Sure do miss that boy of mine!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheETxG4Erdib1jEghsRnvSvchNiEIflv91IpMjuV_3EYresMzx-PcWdQAcAm0_Xed5rEiVYGKxSjW_ZPxV0P8FPaeXFpLQgRRUKIBgrCrzPPXFR3hmkUzt77LgJLDGrttJ7FxLL0nbjmXu/s1600/Love+of+a+Mother+_+sahindesigns_centeredtemplate3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheETxG4Erdib1jEghsRnvSvchNiEIflv91IpMjuV_3EYresMzx-PcWdQAcAm0_Xed5rEiVYGKxSjW_ZPxV0P8FPaeXFpLQgRRUKIBgrCrzPPXFR3hmkUzt77LgJLDGrttJ7FxLL0nbjmXu/s320/Love+of+a+Mother+_+sahindesigns_centeredtemplate3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Happy Scrapping!</span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-29129788971645990692016-03-09T11:50:00.001-08:002016-03-09T11:50:47.279-08:00Have I done any good in the world today...<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">...have I helped anyone in need? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">About a month ago, my cousin <i>Jason's Shayla</i> sent me a Facebook message asking me if I would be willing to do a favor for her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Over the course of the past month, we've been in contact and finally, yesterday, I was able to complete my portion of the requested favor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I made and delivered dinner to a recently widowed sister in our valley.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Shayla lives too far away. And this is what she wanted to do for her friend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What a blessing it was to me to be able to take part in this act of service.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">...There are chances for work all around, just now. Opportunities right in our way...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It wasn't much. Rigatoni, french bread, caramel popcorn. But it was food. Ready to eat, homemade, delicious comfort food. </span><br />
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<div class="" id="p6" style="background: 0px 0px rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00784314); border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 30.6px; margin-bottom: 26px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/general-conference/1981/04/our-responsibility-to-care-for-our-own.p6">
In one of the most important declarations of what it means to be a true disciple of the Master, Alma describes in clarity and simplicity the covenant and responsibility of one who would enter the waters of <a class="no-link-style" href="https://www.lds.org/topics/baptism?lang=eng" style="background: 0px 0px; border: none !important; color: #2f393a; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;">baptism</a>. We have all entered the water. We have made the covenant. In the eighteenth chapter of Mosiah, Alma describes the conduct of a true follower of the Savior, a true disciple. For he said, “And now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;</div>
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“Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things.” (<a class="scriptureRef" href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/18.8-9?lang=eng#7" style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; color: #0091bc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Mosiah 18:8–9</a>.)</div>
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He has stated simply: If we are to be the Savior’s disciples, if we are to become like him, then we must serve one another, then we must assume responsibility to help with one another’s needs, then we must assist each other through the thorny pathways of life.<br />H. Burke Peterson, April 1981 General Conference</div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I often forget just how meaningful something so simple as a ready to eat meal is to those who are just so tired. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">President Monson in April 2001 General Conference said, "</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00784314); color: #333333; font-family: 'Helam Slab', 'Roboto Slab', Calibri, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; line-height: 28px;">There are feet to steady, hands to grasp, minds to encourage, hearts to inspire, and souls to save."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">...Has anyone's burden been lighter today because I was willing to share?...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">...When they needed MY help was I there?...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thank you, <i>Jason's Shayla</i>, for allowing me this opportunity, this gentle reminder that what we do for each other really matters.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">...doing good is a pleasure. A joy beyond measure. A blessing of duty and love...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-65569574470473886002016-02-27T08:54:00.000-08:002016-02-27T08:55:37.431-08:00[big news and a little bit of creativity]<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Well, hello. I've really not been a great keeper of the blog these past few months. Truth be told, I've had a hard time being a great keeper of anything. I hope to change that. In all areas of my life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My starting point is this...I will be submitting my letter of resignation to the school district next week. Yikes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This year of leave has been the best thing for our little family. It just works for us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But as much as I've loved being home... As much as I've loved being able to be here when Goosey gets home from school... As much as I've loved getting stuff done during the day (which happens a lot less frequently than it should...)... I've missed teaching.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We're not willing to give up that time together. Or that peace that is in our home when I'm not so stressed about testing and observations and school.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But I miss teaching. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Over the past 2 weeks, a series of tender mercies have occurred that have led us directly to the next fork in the road.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I will be submitting that letter of resignation. And embarking on my life-long dream of opening my own preschool. What the freaking heck?! Ha! There is an undercurrent of excitement in my home. I know Kenton is smiling so big at this decision. We're all thrilled that this is happening. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I meet Thursday with our city council for final approval. And with that, the Little Fireflies Learning Center will be up and running fall 2016.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The flexibility offered by teaching from my home is so great. My own hours, my own curriculum, super small class sizes, and the opportunity to teach again! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This also allows me to continue my work with a couple of different digital scrapbook designers, continue to be "scrapbook mom" for 5 (soon to be 6) missionaries, and most off all, allows me to be MOM. (McKayslin is super excited about pre-school and knowing she gets to help on her days off from school!).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So...in the coming weeks/months/years - MamaGoose will look an awful lot the same (only more frequent!) - recipes, scrapbooking, life in general - but with the addition of some fun preschool stuff! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yesterday was new release day for Dandelion Dust Designs' latest kit called Thanks so Much. </span><br />
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Thanks-So-Much-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVjhlPzXGRSxpuIP-cfks9WMpK91T2cTxiYXcRRJZmPmwSNntCULodW6lx2BJcLBLnpqw6nASwoyAuG6cTewb_tm5_YH6dj1Hf7Y8j1crwCC8ornuTJZYumtN_HBmnbC8g13tA3cywrNw/s320/ddd_thankssomuch_dddpreview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love the colors in this kit and can see it being used so many different ways! So far I've only played with it long enough for one layout, but I have a whole lot of ideas for this one! :)</span><br />
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Thanks-So-Much-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg23fAaES38rLfrZWECbbHTvBL2RBcMcCGnQEL7csmVMmTaIAd-7OaSFHWMtCZ-Mry5vJLCAFQp1pTPfjCZ9V5cERExACUo5zu3e4xuLjWsQbYDBDPcIk87ElBbqD8KLcPHVfbw-cWY6Qh/s320/Thanks+from+Kenton.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sure do miss this handsome boy of mine!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Thanks for sticking with me through all the crazy! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I'll be back on Monday for #MenuPlanMonday</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See you then!</span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-40647673195038801552016-02-04T12:56:00.000-08:002016-02-04T14:17:17.764-08:00[O, youth of the noble birthright...carry on, carry on, CARRY ON]<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Firm as the mountains around us, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Stalwart and brave we stand</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On the rock our fathers planted</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For us in this goodly land...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...the rock of honor and virtue,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">of faith in the living God...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See, this morning, this <i>school</i> morning, my little Goose was very excited to wake up early (we're talking like 4:30 am early!) to go to the temple to do <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/baptisms-for-the-dead?lang=eng" target="_blank">baptisms for the dead</a> with her friend Mighty CK.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbryUjmBA141eyoReTndr1dPiFjlHiIoinJ7H6SUMJ_DzX8TO4A4ch79zH5Nn_UZ4vYsIBG550lWbQkhStAR87xvyGBhRBz5OvRknqJtkTqCY3QiY5C8pvofXZ44sUyL5dDjjkzr9kp7aS/s1600/2016-02-04+06.31.46.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbryUjmBA141eyoReTndr1dPiFjlHiIoinJ7H6SUMJ_DzX8TO4A4ch79zH5Nn_UZ4vYsIBG550lWbQkhStAR87xvyGBhRBz5OvRknqJtkTqCY3QiY5C8pvofXZ44sUyL5dDjjkzr9kp7aS/s640/2016-02-04+06.31.46.jpg" width="360" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I have very distinct memories of my 6, maybe 8, opportunities to attend the temple to do baptisms in my youth. The Idaho Falls LDS Temple is located less than 45 minutes from my home, yet <i>going to the temple</i> was a big deal. Huge. Months of planning, interviews, arrangements - so much so that we only went once, maybe twice each year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I loved going to the temple, especially as a new beehive with all of the laurels in our ward looking out for us, helping us, doing our hair all cute after we finished. And we always had dinner in the temple cafeteria. They had the best coconut cream pie.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My memories, however, are lacking in the way I <i>felt</i> at the temple. I don't remember recognizing the importance of the work we were doing, nor do I remember clear impressions or feelings during or after our visits.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Last night, McKayslin asked if I could take her to the temple this morning (I took her and Roo 2 weeks ago (on a Saturday morning) and Luke and I took the girls again last Saturday morning) before school. I might have hesitated. It's so early to get up. It's cold. She has school...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yet, very clearly, I received the impression that I needed to take her this morning. One of the things I'm working on is <i>listening</i> and <i>acting</i> when I receive gentle nudges to do something good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It took one text and CK was on board to come along. To be at the temple at 5:30 am. On a school morning. Do you know what that does to a Momma heart? As we prepared to tuck McKayslin in for the night, she shared this simple testimony...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"I like the way I feel at the temple. I really like the way I feel after. I think I need to go in the morning to give me strength and to energize me for my day."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My little barely twelve year old <i>craves</i> temple attendance like I have only learned to do in my 40s. Seriously, how great is that?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This morning, early, Luke left for work, and I grumbled out of bed and into the shower, where this hymn wound itself so tightly around my heart. I found myself humming, smiling, and excited to be the mom that got to take the girls to the temple this morning. And I knew Kenton was smiling. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Even though Kenton never was able to attend the temple physically, he was so excited when Bishop McDonald brought him his recommend at the hospital. Luke took a picture and sent me a text. Although Kenton was very sick at the time, his smile stretched from ear to ear as he proudly held up his temple recommend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUdHE-4NUOahihl_vr_zMLB03b2Xs4vrURxTjTXbJCskjWP5ZYsEEafgVS2-KU4tfRbGX9JtH4m1yqK4eUFoqzU6PuJc8StJAPReuiNRgkMRCjgQf2iz0AMnDrw1J1NLyHbIgEVMWt01R/s1600/Kenton+temple+recommend.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUdHE-4NUOahihl_vr_zMLB03b2Xs4vrURxTjTXbJCskjWP5ZYsEEafgVS2-KU4tfRbGX9JtH4m1yqK4eUFoqzU6PuJc8StJAPReuiNRgkMRCjgQf2iz0AMnDrw1J1NLyHbIgEVMWt01R/s400/Kenton+temple+recommend.jpg" width="400" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was reminded of a story that Cal shared with me. When they were waiting in the baptistry waiting room one morning, one of the temple workers encouraged the kids to really think of the person they were performing the baptismal ordinance for, and to realize that <i>at that moment</i>, they were acting as missionary companions with those who had gone on before, bringing these ordinances to those who had died without the opportunity to receive them. She shared how great it was that <i>our boys</i> could work together on something so great - Kenton in the Spirit World and Payts here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And now, my little Goose gets to work together with our Kenton in that same capacity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We picked up Mighty CK a little after 5 and arrived at the temple right around 5:30. We entered the temple to find youth already there, filling the baptistry, anxiously engaged in the work of the Lord. I watched as the girls confidently participated in the ordinances. I could see their love of the temple and the work performed there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rFA1xraAage4h8iicJ6X80M66Hx54oTB-TBLOeCIk9FmRhZnKtJbEyRFEbaiOhyphenhyphen3x3UUNf2qptD6cv5YnhZjRhoXZ1yPyNXqZD9u-JV3_ldEPrQ1w2xwqNq8zI4xr5lhlxEgXYnaOHZS/s1600/2016-02-04+05.27.55.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rFA1xraAage4h8iicJ6X80M66Hx54oTB-TBLOeCIk9FmRhZnKtJbEyRFEbaiOhyphenhyphen3x3UUNf2qptD6cv5YnhZjRhoXZ1yPyNXqZD9u-JV3_ldEPrQ1w2xwqNq8zI4xr5lhlxEgXYnaOHZS/s640/2016-02-04+05.27.55.jpg" width="360" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We exited the temple in a snowstorm. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1QRX7Io3Mi6yTqUKuVjY8UwYDqLPX0UDaWUMsGvCqF-R12ba9zEl6NJqJmyFYihA9Uk3pmKnue3T7U2QUA5DUwJQ1v2NWbAC7lbXv6UTbJmRvAtLzzIYcQ03eK06QN83kaP52krmk0hp/s1600/2016-02-04+06.29.24.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1QRX7Io3Mi6yTqUKuVjY8UwYDqLPX0UDaWUMsGvCqF-R12ba9zEl6NJqJmyFYihA9Uk3pmKnue3T7U2QUA5DUwJQ1v2NWbAC7lbXv6UTbJmRvAtLzzIYcQ03eK06QN83kaP52krmk0hp/s640/2016-02-04+06.29.24.jpg" width="360" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Stopped for some breakfast. Listened to them plan and prepare for their next trip - even making plans for the future when <i>finally</i> all of the friends were 12 - giggling about how we'd have to rent a bus every week. And then I dropped them off at school.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As they tumbled into school, facing the challenges of the day with a renewed outlook, with strength, and with faith, I took a moment for a quick prayer of thanks that <i>I</i> was the mom allowed to bring them to the temple this morning. Because, guess what?! Those blessings were mine this morning, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">These kids of mine teach me so much...stalwart and brave they stand.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...Holding aloft our colors,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We march in the glorious dawn.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">O youth of the noble birthright,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Carry on, carry on, carry on!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">LDS Hymns 255</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Text: Ruth May Fox</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Music: Alfred M. Durham</span><br />
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-5023482780862343442015-11-03T10:10:00.004-08:002015-11-03T10:10:45.834-08:00[the truth about happiness]<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's been right around 5 months since I last went <i>to work.</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I do other things - photography, card making, scrapbooking, piano lessons, baking etc. - as little side jobs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But as of right now, my <i>going to work</i> looks an awful lot like staying home (mostly in my jammies because that whole line about <i>getting dressed makes you feel like being more productive</i> just kind of made me want to punch people in the neck instead of actually be productive) and taking care of my home and my family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The problem here is that while I absolutely love being home, I can be incredibly lazy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I can spend a whole day on Pinterest. Or Facebook. Or binge watching Netflix. And, all of a sudden, it's 2:15 and I have yet to shower, or make the bed, or figure out what's for dinner, or clean anything - most days I have forgotten to eat...and I feel horrible at the end of the day. Grumpy. Useless.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I can also be incredibly creative.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Other days I spend all day in my Deb Cave. Crafting. Scrapbooking. Carding. Those days, my creative spirit smiles, and I'm joyful, content, and happy - until I emerge from my cave and find that it's once again 2:15...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I can also be incredibly productive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There have been weeks where every day, I busted out a serious to do list of cleaning/organizing/purging. But around 2:15, I was still unshowered, unfed, and completely ornery.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And there are days that, for my own healing, are days filled with a whole lot of tears, reflection, reading, sleeping, studying, and prayer. And at 2:15, well, those days look just like the other days.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Luke asked me one day what I do all day on the days that he comes home and he can see my happy and feel the peace in our home. (Now don't get all ticked off at him - he didn't ask me like <i>that</i>!!). He was just curious. I told him I mostly craft, cook, and clean.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And we burst out laughing because, seriously, CLEAN (as a verb!!) made it into my top 3 list of things I do on a good day?! Ha.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The ironic thing about being a homemaker (oh, how I adore that title!) is that the days I enjoy the very most - the days where I am completely at peace and my home feels peaceful and calm and happy - are the days where I combine all of the parts of me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today, well, today, I wasn't sure what today would be. I started off the day with the bed made, laundry started, McKayslin off to school, a completed scrapbook page, and breakfast eaten. I stopped by Pinterest for a minute to check out a few pins from last night. And, knowing what would likely happen, I stayed there...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And was sucked into the <a href="http://www.littlegirldesigns.com/" target="_blank">Little Girl Designs</a> page after clicking through Pinterest about letter writing. There, through a series of other clicks, I found exactly what I needed for today.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">She referenced several articles that really caught my attention...</span><br />
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<a href="http://liveyourlegend.net/consume-less-create-more/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;" target="_blank">Consume Less. Create More.</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> At first, I thought this was another article on minimalism, which fascinates me, so I clicked over. It's so not. Consuming doesn't have to be stuff - it can be things that take our time - learning is the big one touched on here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And this one: <a href="http://www.highexistence.com/the-simple-truth-about-happiness/" target="_blank">The Simple Truth About Happiness</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Oh.my.freaking.heck.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000;">“The opposite of happiness isn’t sadness — it’s boredom."</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This. So much this.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And so I did something. I took two challenges from Little Girl Designs (#2030create) and (#bringbacksnailmail) - both old challenges, but exactly what I needed today. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I quickly chose a couple of pieces of paper (which ended up being replaced because they didn't match after I colored the image), a couple of stamp sets, and decided who I needed to write to and got to work. 28 minutes (plus 42 seconds) later, I had a delightful little card made, written in, addressed, and in the mailbox. My heart smiled.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOF4AGYgs9DZinWUB3io908Q0HiKudBuFinuZ1v1O6jo-o5VvQOVglIaCaIuCW0xd13u0y9Q1fDTEzSmUkCvB8rSXxEEdMOryqIAt0dHFvqq-yZyss2EtvAWb2a5Rj57kkA66Whh3tNty/s1600/IMG_20151103_100617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOF4AGYgs9DZinWUB3io908Q0HiKudBuFinuZ1v1O6jo-o5VvQOVglIaCaIuCW0xd13u0y9Q1fDTEzSmUkCvB8rSXxEEdMOryqIAt0dHFvqq-yZyss2EtvAWb2a5Rj57kkA66Whh3tNty/s320/IMG_20151103_100617.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Then I got up out of my chair, left the Deb Cave, and folded the laundry. And put my clean clothes away. And figured out what was going to be for dinner. And wrote this blog post. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today, I remember, that my happy is found when I combine all of the parts of me. Today, I will make something else. I will play the piano. I will eat delicious food. I will watch a show. I will clean something. I will shower, actually get dressed (maybe one day I won't want to punch people in the neck when I'm not in my jammies), do my hair, and wear make-up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today, I will choose happiness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-13117439393262692462015-11-02T09:14:00.000-08:002015-11-02T09:14:00.520-08:00[menu plan Monday] OR [sketchy dinners Sunday]<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yesterday, I asked Luke and McKayslin to write down 3 things they would like to eat this week. I wrote down 3 things as well. And as I went to hang the list on the fridge, I had to laugh - there are now 4 menu plan type lists on my fridge. FOUR. Ha.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Going off the list from yesterday, our menu plan (which really should be called a sketch, because there's nothing "planny" about it!!) and weekly schedule look something like this...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Meal Sketches - alfredo, sloppy joes, steak and potatoes, all day steak and cheesy potatoes, pollo con queso (Luke is hereby banned from playing on my Pinterest account!), pancakes (Goosey already volunteered for dinner this night!), Grandma Rainsdon noodles in broth over potatoes, chimichangas, tacos, Grammy mac, chicken parmesan</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">M: 1 piano lesson (cancelled) so I'll have McKayslin do her lesson today instead. Tonight feels like a good cajun chicken alfredo pasta night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">T: 1 piano lesson, Goosey has rehearsal until 4, I have glee club from 7:30-9 and it's Kenton day. I think Grammy Mac or steak and potatoes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">W: 1 piano lesson. Reflections judging (10-12 or 5-7). <a href="http://mamagoosecraftandbakery.blogspot.com/2015/01/menu-plan-monday.html" target="_blank">Pancakes</a> (we use the same recipe for pancakes and waffles) so McKayslin can cook if I'm gone. Or tacos if that sounds better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">TH: Goosey has rehearsal until 4. Bread day. All day steak and cheesy potatoes. Unless we opted for steak and potatoes on Tuesday, then <a href="http://theneaglesnest.blogspot.com/2010/07/pollo-fundido.html" target="_blank">pollo con queso</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">F: Feed the Elders. Friday is always pizza night, so either <a href="http://mamagoosecraftandbakery.blogspot.com/2015/08/bestpizzaever.html" target="_blank">homemade pizza</a> or pizza sticks I think...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sa: Clean out both freezers - we need to go pick up our half beef in Lewiston, and our chicken breasts will be here in a couple of weeks also. I'm hoping for </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Grandma Rainsdon noodles this day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Su: I teach Sunday School. Grilled or toasted cheese sandwiches. It's tradition.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">M: 2 piano lessons. Chicken parmesan or sloppy joes.</span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-18044755157541216742015-10-02T06:56:00.001-07:002015-10-02T06:56:10.517-07:00[The Quietest Classroom Pencil Sharpener]...and you'll want one for home, too!<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't even tell you how much I love this pencil sharpener brand! I had them in my classroom (yes, them, plural), and we have a super cute car one that they sent to Kenton when he was in the hospital so he could keep his drawing pencils sharp. We use that one here at home all the time. Fast. Quiet. Easy to use. And always a nice sharp point!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uCql5lYwK5ikEET9iCDRV0CjsvVk3Itj9zpfV4NlLrXFJVJwcAFGl4AgC7BRXlxC5VsYExQQh1VXB9RvJfmE6r3ZdOo_kJintejq4xkTlRwcmPXPsd3qLFynPNp-oPJdgPvM0_pXSCky/s1600/pencil+sharpener.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uCql5lYwK5ikEET9iCDRV0CjsvVk3Itj9zpfV4NlLrXFJVJwcAFGl4AgC7BRXlxC5VsYExQQh1VXB9RvJfmE6r3ZdOo_kJintejq4xkTlRwcmPXPsd3qLFynPNp-oPJdgPvM0_pXSCky/s1600/pencil+sharpener.png" /></a></div>
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This morning there was a pretty exciting email in my inbox...something new and super fun is coming soon from the makers of The Quietest Classroom Pencil Sharpener! Stay tuned for more sneak peeks and the grand reveal on October 26! You're going to want one of these!!</div>
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-88036308332182340892015-08-07T12:00:00.000-07:002015-08-07T12:00:50.553-07:00[MamaGoose_KWJ2] <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Just finished up Kayl's July 5th pictures. He takes lots of pictures which makes my job so much easier! From now on, his letter pages will only be shared with his family, but you can look forward to seeing lots of picture only pages!</span></div>
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<a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ2.zip" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_ktFw_GqK4odBkdEaONQaCiEFEVzTPxwDF6UbWa1VMjZvMR3VSOZHoKV_gAyf9sXcAuq_q2kt0FfjVgXYkFA1rK5hkGq2j_vRjchVwHjlajFBMJ4P703W6aZev6a8UHnrq7ov_Dy3Ccw/s200/7-5-15-A.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ2.zip" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTpRufRbE6h1cwP9CR0RCm2KKK6KkeMc7FKwcsDZkCCXL8_FqhYUlM42dFOXDnIw-QgM7_eU5YnKjtMMhjcC4YoFGpPR-OsWaxNarOn0ouhxBjYoaJThYsH9mAyXekszs2PHEVxEBQg_p/s200/7-5-15-B.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For these I created a new kit <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ2.zip" target="_blank">MamaGoose_KWJ2</a> based on the color palette of this week's photos. </span></div>
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<a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ2.zip" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMU0e6J7LU2lGPXtC2kFpu0ByH6U2xpVqiCr_isKl5NocXsJVN-oIEVtJD4hLaFpdmC4s02PL9FCvo8sJpf1iUcVLjw7jTPeiz9Lp3jgBfL8mykdGBtQO52RuRZiwMTHbA_MGkeTK-EYx/s320/MamaGoose_KWJ2_Color+Palette.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ2.zip" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LoT-zalNkNd0BRtrTsF_4ZmlP_4Pi68ESbMwuZLN3rf7zb9fEX_762TJJztZCDiiqtBr1In-VzEBuxYV1Yjdxe57mUT6NsJtSDn7mzQrkekPyFiOKTYV-1J2IJCLjYZO_eyJmdBQSIUe/s320/Preview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's currently available for <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ2.zip" target="_blank">free download</a>. But only until the end of August. With soon to be 3 missionary shared folders on my Dropbox, it's getting pretty full pretty fast! At the end of August, all of August's free kits will be removed and replaced with September's kits. That's the plan anyway.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you pick it up and would like to share your creations, I'd love to see them!</span></div>
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-7558903985588525292015-08-05T22:11:00.001-07:002015-08-05T22:18:57.180-07:00[Digital Scrapbooking Kit] FREE!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm having too dang much fun designing digital scrapbook kits! So far I'm up to 5. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">6 if you count the mini from the blog train...And I started doing this like a week ago. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Can you say #addictstatus?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm trying to get my cute cousin's mission scrapbook caught up. That boy takes a LOT of pictures. I love it!!! Tonight I was scrapping his pics from July 1 (see, I'm a whole month behind!!!!). Couldn't find anything I liked, so I created stuff. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Used one of the pictures he sent (July 1 pics were almost ALL scenery pics!) to create the color palette...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGScOlDEyGj9HrR8XSMgemzwGSlflbyHLdPRgGOfU3rzBRAs6RR7aLEup8Sx940Vr5TQmH1FNXGsGTWXSRCDLIMohyphenhyphenfmDUWr21OCZibpxG3il4WxUXFkwJ2og-kErN3cBHbV9f-_y0VDz/s1600/July+1+Color+Palette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGScOlDEyGj9HrR8XSMgemzwGSlflbyHLdPRgGOfU3rzBRAs6RR7aLEup8Sx940Vr5TQmH1FNXGsGTWXSRCDLIMohyphenhyphenfmDUWr21OCZibpxG3il4WxUXFkwJ2og-kErN3cBHbV9f-_y0VDz/s320/July+1+Color+Palette.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And instead of finishing that whole week's worth of pics, I spent 2 hours designing as I scrapped and only finished 1 day of pics. Ha. Oh well. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">[His letters get their own pages and will be in his completed book, but not shared publicly].</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYXom5ZUp09fWg_CPQ0jG-gJVEthM3G5ZEFqe-zqJVu4Yj4_3Mj4M41mSitAkDHAKS-VWxIbg3fn8o-v4HYXcpyNlf7KJqDNaJfxqPT6rUTNvcY6a2BRT1WYi8T_Y_V2rBJNZz7CraFGT/s1600/7-1-15+A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYXom5ZUp09fWg_CPQ0jG-gJVEthM3G5ZEFqe-zqJVu4Yj4_3Mj4M41mSitAkDHAKS-VWxIbg3fn8o-v4HYXcpyNlf7KJqDNaJfxqPT6rUTNvcY6a2BRT1WYi8T_Y_V2rBJNZz7CraFGT/s200/7-1-15+A.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDzdOtXy2bZog2rL0Cz31hkZczCVKAZb3afO2xJ0mNytqIiy_8lgINghY7FGiJf9y27DAtoN50As-XBrrngH87iXfi9v_BhLx9I4QeBDbR9_jBTS10sqKR6sT-_1jcNZ8QfGs7IKbe8t2/s1600/7-1-15+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDzdOtXy2bZog2rL0Cz31hkZczCVKAZb3afO2xJ0mNytqIiy_8lgINghY7FGiJf9y27DAtoN50As-XBrrngH87iXfi9v_BhLx9I4QeBDbR9_jBTS10sqKR6sT-_1jcNZ8QfGs7IKbe8t2/s200/7-1-15+B.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This little kit is called <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ1.zip" target="_blank">MamaGoose_KWJ1</a> and I just happen to feel all nice and generous because it's my birthday (and school starts - the first year in my adult life that I'm not teaching!!!) in just 15 days. So...HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU FROM ME! This little guy is a <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ1.zip" target="_blank">FREE download</a>! I'd love to see what you create with it! You can email me your layouts and I'll come back and add them here on this post!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And I'm rambling because it's wwwwaaaayyyyy past my bedtime! But, hey! I found a great deal on raspberries for Heidi Mom, so we can make jam, so it's totally fine. Right? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Okay - so here's the preview. It just so happens to be linked to the download. I did mention the download was FREE, right?!</span></div>
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<a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/MamaGoose_KWJ1.zip" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwE3hESY-FsiNUbm5J9aY1x0L5L1NTS306k0aBNRCdAleiNQWcuNxv42fK9OIJ9u6AviAMNwppycHxhHKBxEKekkuFi-CJSbDTYus3qsqPZtw0ShTiM8b40DitXw6PNsfUz9Ua7cmVgcvn/s320/MamaGoose_KWJ1_Preview.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Have fun and thanks for stopping by!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">PS: My other kits are on <a href="http://www.debreynolds.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a> if you'd like to come on over and take a look!</span></div>
Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-70521797400431259392015-08-03T15:58:00.000-07:002015-08-03T16:00:03.654-07:00Best.Pizza.Ever<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For a <i>rrreeeallly</i> long time, I was on a search for a homemade pizza dough that I actually liked. I had one that was <i>okay</i>, but it certainly wasn't anything to share on Instagram, and well, those of you that know me well, know that if it's not Instagram worthy, it's just not okay. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I happened upon <a href="http://www.laurenslatest.com/fail-proof-pizza-dough-and-cheesy-garlic-bread-sticks-just-like-in-restaurants/" target="_blank">this recipe</a> from Lauren's Latest (love her recipes so much!!!) and figured I should give it a try. The first night I made it, Jelly was here and when her parents picked her up, we sent a couple of slices of pizza home with them. They loved it like we did! They call it "the good pizza crust!" Ha!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The next time I made it, I still really liked it, but something just was off for me. My family certainly didn't complain, but I was bugged. Shocker. I know.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So...over the next couple of months, I adapted, tested, changed the original recipe until it's now our go-to every.Friday.night dinner. Holy Yum. And <i style="font-weight: bold;">definitely</i> Instagram worthy!!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivx0Do6ndp0VVGWPDXMT7JCZpVO3vxPyKKq3XB1IUAbLTaSno2LvGAKAvt2cbDvX61j3rT2iCTyZd4bIlS6xspTMt1UsnUIWZLxr0Kg3iQTCXppFuQlPiLcb98DB-sAmglCupvqBew-b8R/s1600/2015-07-24+17.16.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivx0Do6ndp0VVGWPDXMT7JCZpVO3vxPyKKq3XB1IUAbLTaSno2LvGAKAvt2cbDvX61j3rT2iCTyZd4bIlS6xspTMt1UsnUIWZLxr0Kg3iQTCXppFuQlPiLcb98DB-sAmglCupvqBew-b8R/s320/2015-07-24+17.16.33.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And just because they're super cute, here you get a picture of Grammy and Goosey when I made them make their own pizzas. Really then only had to put the toppings on...they're so picked on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The changes aren't huge, but here is my version of the Instagram worthy pizza dough...</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>*If you have a kitchenaide, no adjustments will be required. If you only have a full size Bosch - double the recipe and freeze half in two equal portions - there is not enough dough to use the full size Bosch and have it mix well. I use my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-MUM4405UC-Compact-Mixer-mum4405/dp/B0006DORPU" target="_blank">Bosch Compact</a> for this and it's absolutely perfect! I actually use my "baby Bosch" for everything except homemade bread or the one recipe of cookies that makes like 6 dozen.*</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Best.Pizza.Ever</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Adapted from Lauren's Latest by MamaGooseBakery</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the stand of your mixer, put 1 cup warm water, 1 TBSP SAF instant yeast (seriously, just buy the SAF!!), and 1 TBSP white sugar. Mix to combine and let proof until bubbly, foamy, and creamy - about 5 minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Add 1 heaping tsp garlic salt, 2 TBSP olive oil, and 3 cups flour.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mix until well blended. Set the timer for 6 minutes and let the dough just knead away in your mixer for 6 minutes. I usually set it on speed 2 and kind of just hang out by my baby Bosch so he doesn't jump off the counter (don't ask how I know this is what will happen... :( ).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At the very end of the kneading time, with the mixer still going, drizzle in some olive oil. Not much, just enough to get that glorious little ball of dough and the mixing bowl oiled up so the dough doesn't dry out and stick to the bowl while rising. When the time's up, turn off the mixer, take out the dough hook, and throw a towel over the bowl. Let rise till double. And hour is about good, but sometimes it only takes like 30 minutes (probably the days that I am a less than perfect measurer of yeast...)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When the dough is doubled, dump it out onto a Silpat liner. Don't have a Silpat liner? Well, then, I'm afraid we can't be friends...get one. The off brand works well also. And I once ordered the most adorable turquoise and red <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kudos-Nonstick-GUARANTEE-Perfectly-Certified/dp/B00IJQGXJO/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1438641378&sr=1-1&keywords=silicone+baking+mat+Kudos" target="_blank">Kudos</a> brand ones that I love. Because they're cute. And of course because they're awesome!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Divide that now less than pretty dough into 2 equal sections. You can freeze one (I guess - Lauren said you could - I have a couple in the freezer, but I have this weird aversion to frozen dough and bread items...other than biscuits, wow, but that's a whole other post!). So maybe check out the original post to see her instructions on that part.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Anyway....(not enough grown-up conversation time today I'm afraid, sorry to ramble so)...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Smoosh (technical term right there) one portion of dough out onto whatever it is you want to bake the pizza on. If you're using a pizza stone, just smoosh it on there. If you're using a cast iron pizza skillet (my absolute fave!!!), lightly - VERY VERY LIGHTLY grease with olive oil or butter (don't use margarine. ever. seriously), then smoosh the dough in. The texture is going to feel weird to you if you're used to fluffy bread and roll dough. Trust me, it's fine. Smoosh and stretch and tug and nudge that dough until it fits your pan (we prefer ours pretty thin). Now do the same thing with the other one. I do one on the pizza stone (for breadsticks), and one in the pizza skillet. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2Laj8un4qD6cgP_uNFCxDi95zgAv8sUutSMoNqKQER93lv3gywQu6xfgcmLDo2CUHlBYasT4RyhLl5eIByVZz_PkeBFIQcys3W7_y7rWnWaKLbKIRJ3CuhAZCvMRHme-vmbt0QzUpY5r/s1600/2015-07-31+17.58.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2Laj8un4qD6cgP_uNFCxDi95zgAv8sUutSMoNqKQER93lv3gywQu6xfgcmLDo2CUHlBYasT4RyhLl5eIByVZz_PkeBFIQcys3W7_y7rWnWaKLbKIRJ3CuhAZCvMRHme-vmbt0QzUpY5r/s320/2015-07-31+17.58.11.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And here's where I have to admit that sometimes we make 4 individual size pizzas instead of one big one. Because Luke and I love this deliciousness that is BBQ Chicken pizza with purple onions and fresh cilantro. And Goosey would rather stab herself in the foot than eat this...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pizza - smooth on some pizza sauce (the only kind we like is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Contadina-Pizza-Sauce-Squeeze-Bottle/dp/B00AU8184O/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1438641735&sr=8-1&keywords=Contadina+pizza+squeeze" target="_blank">Contadina Pizza Squeeze</a> - I've yet to find a homemade sauce that we love. Then sprinkle on a good portion of shredded mozzarella. Do yourself a favor - buy the real stuff, and shred it yourself. Seriously. Add whatever toppings you want, and sprinkle with a little bit of shredded cheddar (again with the buy the block and shred it yourself!!!). Bake in a pre-heated 450* oven for around 10 minutes. You want the crust to be a deep golden brown so that the bottom crust is baked and not doughy. Sometimes we hit right at 10 - other times it's closer to 15! Let the pizza sit for a few minutes before cutting. You can cut it immediately, but all the stuff will slide off. Consequences.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXXDMwajJ1C4WwXbyPXot97wT4QfcsJHs7epUzEN3xAbOklCN-D5jm2QQwAp7BVg52VtrBOaAAVSrMO76aV0P-ATQGEi5_9SPHAtZ8IpEh-Zcm1BcRyQqe9LvG9Cp7F1dFeBaT2ootLeM/s1600/2015-07-31+17.44.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXXDMwajJ1C4WwXbyPXot97wT4QfcsJHs7epUzEN3xAbOklCN-D5jm2QQwAp7BVg52VtrBOaAAVSrMO76aV0P-ATQGEi5_9SPHAtZ8IpEh-Zcm1BcRyQqe9LvG9Cp7F1dFeBaT2ootLeM/s320/2015-07-31+17.44.43.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Breadsticks - mix together 2 TBSP softened salted butter (do NOT use margarine. just don't.) and 2 tsp minced garlic. Or do what we do and mix up that whole stick of butter with 8 tsp minced garlic and just keep it in the fridge. Like a boy scout. Be prepared. Spread the amount you'd like on your dough and top with a generous portion of shredded by you mozzarella and just a bit of shredded by you cheddar. Sprinkle lightly with Italian Seasoning. Bake in a preheated 450* oven about 10 minutes (check at 8 - these guys cook pretty quick). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And there you have the best.Instagram.worthy.pizza.and.breadsticks.ever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Carry on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-74219313163486946102015-08-01T11:19:00.001-07:002015-08-01T11:19:46.100-07:00Annika, Warrior Princess<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Introducing my newest digital scrapbooking kit:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/242520865/digital-scrapbook-kit-annika-warrior?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Annika, Warrior Princess</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/242520865/digital-scrapbook-kit-annika-warrior?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4dOqf3VMHKe8zbQYLq9bOg_vwSPUZc4uZdrCqF-67BGRn8hyRWHzbHOfN7QelmbLDPSyS-XrybMtveGeRZSy1D8lDAE9t3wXdboHFjZfqcmwOuUsIw3FK3_iIlaNqVlrAhJx-VS2fGHZu/s320/MamaGoose_WarriorPrincessAnnika_Beads-of-Courage_gallery-listing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/242520865/digital-scrapbook-kit-annika-warrior?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jj1s69gGrBPz4yhAwMkUoL4g1KAY8LiMdGGMpcJiOIc9u9_hORoXwb1csVyRbUy3Aq2HrYyXiS8FyszoT0ZVOSNIXQPwYsDl0uHTHNBprtdN6OUf5qx1v0QNwdYzxAEntSbl_aiWsTbH/s320/MamaGoose_WarriorPrincessAnnika_Preview_Elements_gallerylisting.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/242520865/digital-scrapbook-kit-annika-warrior?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPDRwKdqQz2p8oGPgHt04BMb8JKVAUc7yy-6KsQxNfKEQYtJKkkDQrygUMutf32o8UTBWqRstzCZlkM54YDckbN2ESrTpOIqw4RcutaHXRQ1d5Rpk5sNo1dGxGpuN8Rpi24ARgZtSfLEq/s320/MamaGoose_WarriorPrincessAnnika_Preview_Papers_gallerylisting.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sweet Annika just finished her THIRD battle with neuroblastoma. She's three. Such a sweet, spunky little rockstar! All proceeds from this kit will go to Annika's family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Kit contains 12 papers, 38 elements, and a layered page template.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Images are linked to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/242520865/digital-scrapbook-kit-annika-warrior?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Etsy</a> where this kit can be purchased for $5.</span></div>
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-54011754324115471132015-07-31T09:05:00.002-07:002015-07-31T11:18:29.890-07:00[Hoppin' on the Pixel Scrapper Blog Train...]<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've decided I love designing...this is a brand new first attempt. Thanks for stopping by!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Download links will be active only from August 1 - August 31... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/PSAug2015_BugsLife_MamaGoose/MamaGoose_bugslife_papers.zip" target="_blank">MamaGoose_BugsLife_Papers</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/30241948/PSAug2015_BugsLife_MamaGoose/MamaGoose_bugslife_elements.zip" target="_blank">MamaGoose_BugsLife_Elements</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Kit contains 8 pattern papers, 3 journaling cards, and 12 buggy hashtags.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsp80Yph7QYtAS0DLHNzCeuPQDODshpYUamONaHtaE3MDDS-Ba7CapPuuCukywC7VDby1O-BBr3VIMw9ajB84tsS7vu9IvOwopqu2lBAutmBG7aJxsbBs6o5vP9hTCelchx8Fdra6msE1T/s1600/MamaGoose_BugsLife_Preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsp80Yph7QYtAS0DLHNzCeuPQDODshpYUamONaHtaE3MDDS-Ba7CapPuuCukywC7VDby1O-BBr3VIMw9ajB84tsS7vu9IvOwopqu2lBAutmBG7aJxsbBs6o5vP9hTCelchx8Fdra6msE1T/s320/MamaGoose_BugsLife_Preview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-55301459516661159802015-04-25T07:41:00.004-07:002015-04-25T07:41:43.684-07:00[Rain or Shine] Rainbow<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love our Cache Valley thunderstorms!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This adorable kit, <a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Rain-Or-Shine-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank">Rain or Shine</a>, from Dandelion Dust Designs is PERFECT for all of your rain related pictures...</span></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Rain-Or-Shine-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVzJJeGJ3sbog5wWpMdNuheQhXtWjT7h2UXC_8q5fUcqiN6yNItHS-gZFEKb0rE3EOP43_Afi3MG3josybYGrX-bkBxTwuH03yqoJHTttoCe_sKRRzPtkpXJcdx3OR2NKvRkiG6w5BFaH/s1600/ddd_rainorshine_preview.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Rain-Or-Shine-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmHgOeVfHSqrVjFGA-A068Td7GFJuFsPKbTfDB-e5SOpEH-V5vzsssxjNJ7FXD4v5LUg4pHJ7pxd7Xv8RXyda1oQnFHBMzpD44UfgDPZgcANrr26jTRexNbKSUk9hSkaZdn3leBmjN6OL/s1600/May-20_2013_rainbow_gallery.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-43202745906908346712015-04-18T08:12:00.001-07:002015-04-18T08:12:22.216-07:00[Party Time] Digital Scrapbooking Kit<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This might be one of my favorite kits that has ever been created by Dandelion Dust Designs!!! I love the simpleness of the elements and the colors of the papers. It's available now at <a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Party-Time-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank">GingerScraps</a>!!</span></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Party-Time-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyVY8_vCjTbGx12rCOwUnVb8ZOTTYldAKoQKCMwVbzxW1PFBjKFpUEivJzw_0OhEryqH9Wy8DvB2DrAqTk92QfWBJzwmYInpaF4Z-zOhpheGBeiEcWyouOVf865au2Wm0OVxvuCT643Jm/s1600/ddd_partytime_preview.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Party-Time-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoj7d57vf8L51n2F0rrUW7LDnoSbWwrr8MZxBbV2WCzLYNf3cHnvilBhndBMe20jZW7Fg-zDgzoquAm6L_P7a7UBSCeUVnbhBp_f1vCzR1MYvwUm9Y92wIU05TinmuXD6qgKLCQ379U3yK/s1600/Birthday+Lateover+2014_1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Party-Time-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaf3bMiYlSzlz_45YUha7z3DY3mL0Crk0_6Y_di_N-CnHYKb9XmMJw-Li9G2SNZFmBoNv9dD1HsiM4BmAq9t6FdYvVfad1hNUfAqPw3DkknLBiOu2rzLUsAShsGgGPwwCMBMpzXMSi1Qz/s1600/The+Core+Four_party+time.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-84483759828030804552015-04-04T07:06:00.000-07:002015-04-04T07:06:10.165-07:00[Bunny Hop]<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The perfect digital scrapbooking kit for all of your Easter photos!!</span></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Bunny-Hop-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWIKQoWYPD9LmOlprOG_0Jdju_sTvxvf-DLjMO4HUdydJQl6-nuL2eIuvbK2FTExg6Lu-teU1NDdw7PkAyh0Qs4oN4WRGI5OQqMJo6FnRYUkw8sWeFMXHA0VXapILIawt5SOjDT_07RdX/s1600/Kenton_Easter+Bunny_2010.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Bunny-Hop-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLWAY1xg7RP47oNVsLhDZ86M7K4K1dPOTxVQwNMl1_swW6sDJ4REbZVcAgd3i6eqD7OWlVbWynTxwhNamKVt6weh97rdlawupxjSCugqRKMd8dUyNlt0VauBzTM0JFy6ygVYBpFGjfj1z/s1600/Sparky+Easter+2010.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-43081476715730414032015-04-02T15:16:00.001-07:002015-04-02T15:16:21.186-07:00[Sweet Tooth] Digital Scrapbooking<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you haven't signed up for the Dandelion Dust Designs monthly newsletter and you're a digital scrapper - you really should do it now! This awesome mini kit was this month's FREE NEWSLETTER KIT!!! Every month Ginger sends out a newsletter, and every month it includes a free mini kit!!! What are you waiting for?! Click the images to be taken to the Dandelion Dust Designs site and get signed up! :)</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.dandeliondustdesigns.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUxVjwr3O9pgvUb_O0QdLXpIrYU-ecVSjRDumT0JiExbtyfSWCW_HTJ4SqX2JRAdbTMcf5XjFkIqL2Wy8SDaBnpzQnMkCHQSShYZyVM_Lr4ktpI9SStQiPXduyVdTsYO9UUSKytxrvQXK/s1600/McKayslin_Feb-2015_gallery.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.dandeliondustdesigns.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkLvp10iUmILfeTdBBl9KOZ36lI5be_N31q_5stFDNu4wDy0Q5RST9FkxGNOuBQ9SqY1ceY6uoaq-4spo2cIbicSszDllXn-W7ztzPn45ZqadSeRE-mKLpTadt52DGJjOZKSCWZcKwHWv/s1600/ddd_sweetooth_preview.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-26596659360290039912015-03-28T05:46:00.002-07:002015-03-28T05:46:41.617-07:00[Creative Me]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Creative-Me-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXB95ZO_ItoCUGDTbilBCtyBjiBFeDmoMNGyLf7yQy4IDRcBFP0rJhacOMY4WrnNy7PLdwm2vh6JqBfyoBV7YPBvdZnd7t8opPciiF5SQ9_glWWln3HTlZp0VbesuQUNV-R4NPvWWuYKx/s1600/ddd_creativeme_preview.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Creative-Me-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1yynMohA90r7BmU9Xe9bG6ZaTz3xn64eRJfftvgTqhHHXKXjXVoK-Ht55mGQT4RkcA5BkF1yr14M0SyDvR9UVs2e2O7Sw0Z78wLFxM3TtrvaJpHx0GWhuK7ntXKRX8osFTlCfhyAzDKvo/s1600/Sleepover+June+18+2014.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is such a fun kit to document all of our crafty adventures! Hop over to GingerScraps and pick it up for a very limited time - it's only $2!!! (Images are linked)</span></div>
<br />Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-51065153588234286002015-03-20T08:48:00.000-07:002015-03-20T09:13:49.693-07:00[Simple Life]<br />
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Simple-Life-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAD29PX6BMLlc0uYjJFDfx6vIooKyGtCKdVETCfrjrokMo-XpkTCMojuxMZ4n-Nk2xUBuCaaSHNl35wAEmie9mxSRv51h5PdcKIXezlVmXtPRVxmKtSneF8hIhXxNwH2JvFQYEB6sx7Nu/s1600/Kenton+and+Goose_Jan+22+2013_gallery.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Simple-Life-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcGPkdQKdlg3cSa5QcbvruNh0p5lgIO2FFzf0HOiTdRGvehB8RIuTAcSbHmzpLZMe70ch1WE1k6e048kPzwQyYLsWAjAf3Gfcp5ypYZEdGgeByEEIUMUhDbYJSO7UR8Gr1LV2a8a-785z/s1600/Kenton+and+Knox_gallery.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://store.gingerscraps.net/Simple-Life-By-Dandelion-Dust-Designs.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQqmmaiVFI9mVUyjbccURGH10G3HA0_jgxBxBh-D4P3rTfrTA1eqqp4yRiLL27TyI8p4sjfqZWUOKtIGGG8ZraFrhu_MzUOGf-MmNgyieBaHo_As-Kc2V1kEITqzPYR9BKW9exKv926X1w/s1600/ddd_simplelife_preview.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-70829423487524123312015-01-12T17:07:00.001-08:002015-01-12T17:07:55.804-08:00[menu plan Monday]<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here's our menu for this week...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sunday - Grilled Cheese (McKayslin had grilled cheese and an apple. I had grilled cheese and some smoked salmon. Luke had grilled turkey and cheese).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Monday - Waffles, Bubba Syrup, Sausage, Eggs</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Tuesday - Porcupines, Biscuits, Green Beans</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wednesday - Baked Salmon, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Scones</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thursday - Homemade Fish and "Chips"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Friday - Spaghetti and Meatballs, homemade French Bread, Corn</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Saturday - Hamburger Gravy over Rice, Green Beans, Rolls</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u>Waffles</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whisk together 2 eggs and 1 3/4 cups milk.<br />Add 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup oil, 1 TBSP brown sugar, 4 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Beat until smooth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cook on a hot waffle iron until steam stops.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Makes 6 large waffles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u>Bubba Syrup</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In a saucepan combine 1 stick butter, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup buttermilk, 1 tsp white corn syrup. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Stop stirring and boil 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla and 1/2 tsp baking soda. Syrup will foam up and get bubbly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u>Porcupines</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Combine 1 pound ground beef with 1/3 cup uncooked rice, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1/4 cup water, 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs. (This is super easy to double and then freeze the other half of the meatballs at this point).<br />In a deep skillet with a tight fitting lid, combine 1 can tomato soup, 1/2 tsp chili powder and 1 cup water. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat. Add the meatballs. Cover and simmer, stirring frequently for about an hour until the rice is tender and the meatballs are cooked through.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you're using the frozen porcupines, mix the sauce ingredients and put the sauce and frozen meatballs into the crock pot. Cook on high 2-3 hours or low 4-6 hours, stirring when you get a chance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u>Biscuits</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mix together 1 3/4 cups flour, 1 1/2 TBSP sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp cream of tartar. Use a pastry blender to cut in 6 TBSP cold butter. Do NOT overmix. The butter should be little globs throughout the flour mixture.<br />Add 1 egg and 1/2 cup milk. Stir just until combined.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On a well floured surface, knead about 15 turns of the dough, kneading in enough flour for a very soft but non-sticky dough.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pat dough about an inch to and inch and a half thick. Cut with a glass or biscuit cutter to make only 8 biscuits.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bake at 450* until golden brown and the middle is no longer doughy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cool about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before serving.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u>Spaghetti and Meatballs</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For the sauce...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In a large pot, saute' 1/2 chopped onion and 2 tsp minced garlic in a little bit of oil until soft and fragrant.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Stir in 28 oz. crushed tomatoes and 16 oz. tomato sauce.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Add 2 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/2 - 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian Seasoning), 2 tsp salt, and 2 TBSP sugar.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bring to a slow boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to a simmer and let simmer for an hour or more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For the meatballs...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Combine 1 pound ground beef with 1 TBSP minced dried onion, 1 tsp season salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup oats, 1 egg, and 1/4 cup water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mix well. Form into meatballs.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bake at 350* until nearly done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Add to the sauce and simmer together while you cook the noodles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We like the leftover meatballs and sauce as meatball subs. Or if there is only leftover sauce and no meatballs, I freeze the leftover sauce to use in tomato macaroni soup.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u>French Bread</u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mix 1 tsp SAF instant yeast with 1 tsp sugar and 1 1/2 cups warm water. Let proof until bubbly (about 5-10 minutes).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Add 1 1/2 tsp salt and 2 cups flour. Mix well.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(I use my small Bosch for this - there's not enough dough for the big Bosch, but a Kitchen-Aide would work fine. You could also do this by hand).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mix in 2 more cups flour. Knead about 8 minutes. The dough will be fairly stiff.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Let rest until doubled (about an hour).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Divide into equal portions (1 big loaf, 2 skinnier baguette type loaves, or our favorite, 8 hoagie size buns). Shape. Place on a Silpat lined cookie sheet to rise about 30 minutes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">With a knife, slash each loaf 2 times - carefully and quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Gently brush each loaf with water (use a pastry brush). This will give the bread that chewy, crispy crust.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bake at 400* until golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped. This will take anywhere from 15-25 minutes depending on your oven and the size of your loaves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We also like to eat this bread hot from the oven dipped into a mixture of 1 stick melted butter, 1 tsp dried parsley, and 2 tsp minced garlic.</span></div>
Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-44087180798506340502015-01-10T07:15:00.001-08:002015-01-12T17:08:25.681-08:00[mental shift] MENU PLANNING<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoIZlgGyOj5i0wxS0ulAD0HCWFP9EZyOUBURumqQMWZdMz3INCxQoaHFvdFzKWsxyG48lSeqqOHpFUKhJhX4V5EWYXqpXfQXLbwzSFmF51wNoy7s1itQa1tEWW4S9-c1429ImlYEDs4wM/s1600/Menu+Plan+sheet_updated.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We set this goal as a family to live on one income and save the other. It can be done. It will take patience. And a whole lot of planning. (I so just had a song from Into the Woods running through my head - <i>it takes patience, and fear, and despair to change - though you swear to change, who can tell if you do?).</i> That's kind of where we are...patience, and fear and despair to change...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yesterday I had this huge mental temper tantrum. Wah, wah, wah - we can't go out to eat, it's not <i>in the budget</i>. Wah, wah, wah - I have to cook <i>again</i> tonight, and I'VE COOKED EVERY.SINGLE.NIGHT.THIS.WEEK.ALREADY.AND.IT'S.THE.FIRST.WEEK.BACK.TO.SCHOOL.AFTER.CHRISTMAS.BREAK. Wah, wah, wah. I don't <i>have time</i> to cook. (Wait, what?! - If I have time to go to town, get something to eat, and then come home, I certainly have <i>time</i> to cook dinner).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm such a spoiled brat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I didn't even make the menu plan for this week, McKayslin did! Yes, I've had to cook. But she planned it. And Luke does the dishes. And miracle of miracles (name that musical!), our kitchen counter has stayed cleared off for 9 entire days. That has never happened before.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Luke only ate out one lunch this week. And I didn't eat school lunch at all. McKayslin ate school lunch twice this week. Because she wanted to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">That realization brought a slight mental shift. My stomach hasn't hurt all week. We've eaten dinner at the table every night (except last night which is always the exception for Friday night pizza and a movie). We've actually talked to each other instead of playing on our tablets or watching tv. It's been quite nice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I knew I needed a better way to menu plan - something that involved the menu plan and the grocery list all on one page. Something that would leave my menu plan safely at home on my fridge. I'm certain there are at least 121 different things just.exactly.like.this floating around the internet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My <i>right brained reality</i> would much rather make one than search for one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So I made one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And I posted it on Instagram.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUdvcP6XJr1rdxbMjcRRq4smsZRdx8scoQDQEqPFRTQU74UdrAEGVdzc8RYx09SGk2o0H9PyOPRGCjDB7cmf0WHAM6wDklKYoKU2JmdTOhtswZB7TnYAW_4sw_4jVn1F25YTK9xWjL3rV/s1600/IMG_20150109_170055%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUdvcP6XJr1rdxbMjcRRq4smsZRdx8scoQDQEqPFRTQU74UdrAEGVdzc8RYx09SGk2o0H9PyOPRGCjDB7cmf0WHAM6wDklKYoKU2JmdTOhtswZB7TnYAW_4sw_4jVn1F25YTK9xWjL3rV/s1600/IMG_20150109_170055%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">That's when I realized that I wasn't the only one looking for a better way to plan. My friends were just as excited about this little thing as I am!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I made a few tweaks to the original document. Things that I had forgotten, or that, when I filled out the form, annoyed me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What I did love...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">• There's a spot to write what I <i>think</i> we need when I'm planning. And a spot to transfer it to the grocery list when I check if we really do need it or not.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">• The grocery part can be cut off the bottom and taken to the store, while the menu plan stays intact, clean, and unwrinkled on my fridge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">• It's cute. And it starts on Sunday. We shop on Saturdays.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What I didn't love...<br />• I needed more space to write the actual menu.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">• I was missing a whole lot of categories for the shopping list part.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">• The font wasn't my favorite (I know, first world problem!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So...this morning, I updated. Tweaked. Fixed. And came up with this.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/tqhzq5h3cb9cer9/Menu%20Plan%20sheet_updated.pdf?dl=0" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoIZlgGyOj5i0wxS0ulAD0HCWFP9EZyOUBURumqQMWZdMz3INCxQoaHFvdFzKWsxyG48lSeqqOHpFUKhJhX4V5EWYXqpXfQXLbwzSFmF51wNoy7s1itQa1tEWW4S9-c1429ImlYEDs4wM/s1600/Menu+Plan+sheet_updated.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I haven't tried it out yet. We'll see if it makes the cut when I menu plan next week. ;) This week, I'm sticking with the one I already filled out. Because I'm lazy. And it's already done.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Click on the image to download your own copy if you'd like. Let me know if you find something that doesn't quite work. I tried to lay out the grocery shopping boxes so they would follow the sections of the store. But realized they don't follow our grocery store but our Wal-Mart. I think it will be okay. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We'll see.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'll post our actual menu plan and recipes a little later. I need to go cut the bread for french toast. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Happy Planning! </span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-967644112834280276.post-39460016546562011102015-01-04T08:53:00.001-08:002015-01-12T17:08:44.640-08:00[gospel principles] lesson 14 ~ Priesthood Organization<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I actually really love teaching <a href="https://www.lds.org/manual/gospel-principles?lang=eng" target="_blank">Gospel Principles</a>. Even though we're on round 3 of teaching through the manual, with each lesson, I learn something new. Today our lesson is <a href="https://www.lds.org/manual/gospel-principles/chapter-14-priesthood-organization?lang=eng">Priesthood Organization, lesson 14</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This lesson is one that I have struggled to understand and teach well in the past. For some reason, my brain gets too wrapped up in the logistics of Priesthood VS Keys of the Priesthood. I'm grateful that Brother Lott and Brother McBride are in Sunday School nearly every Sunday and can redirect and clarify when I get lost. :) This is the 2nd time I've taught this exact lesson. I *think* I have a little better understanding than the last go round. I guess we'll see.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Another thing that has been challenging for me is class participation. I'm fully 100% guilty of being <i>that person</i> in class who never says anything, even when the teacher asks, so I totally understand why sometimes I ask a question and hear crickets...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a teacher by profession, I understand that participation increases understanding. It's just a lot less work to get 6 and 7 year olds to participate than to get adults to respond. Somewhere along the way, we gain all of these insecurities and inhibitions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One thing that has helped me understand each lesson I teach a little better is to sketch, doodle, or simply write out parts of the lesson that are more difficult to understand or the parts that really stuck out to me. Interestingly enough, the lessons I've taught 3 times now have 3 very distinct and different sketches. Sometimes the differences are very noticeable to me and pinpoint something with which I was struggling. Other times the differences are more subtle, yet as the lesson is given, a comment is made by a class member allowing me a glimpse of a question they had, directly correlating to the difference in the delivery of that lesson. And sometimes, all of my sketching, planning, drawing gets thrown completely out in the midst of delivering the lesson.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">How grateful I am for the counsel and direction of my Heavenly Father through the Holy Ghost as I prepare and teach each lesson. Each lesson I teach is an opportunity for me to study, pray, and catch another glimpse of how much our Father in Heaven loves us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wow, that was a fun little tangent... I ramble. I know.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What I'm getting at is this little handout I made to go with today's lesson. We're studying the Organization of the Priesthood. I've included some quotes from the lesson that were ones I've highlighted in several colors in my manual (I use a different color each time I prepare a lesson - helps me see the differences). And there are spaces to discuss and discover the duties of each office in the Priesthood, as well as a brief moment of reminder - Priesthood/Keys of the Priesthood. </span><br />
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<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/4foh7z7dkcm8xx6/Priesthood%20Organization_Lesson%2014.pdf?dl=0"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQr6QRMO8l0EusAlNVVJXYJvYZk1CbTuT_PG1pSuGXCAton30ew7hD8s7OzGONTT_nZi4IiNaYLGmaqSJW6j16uQpwEm3L7vxhKV8mq8fHP9-LgMh7xCg8B1ecMTLjU1mVuOcIcJQOo9I/s1600/Priesthood+Organization_Lesson+14.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You're welcome to use this printable for teaching your own Sunday School lesson, Family Home Evening, or personal study. The image is linked. Just click on it and it will take you to dropbox where you can download or print. <i>If the link doesn't work, please leave me a comment to let me know. It's been a long time since I've done anything like this.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you have questions about what our family <a href="https://www.lds.org/?lang=eng">believes</a>, let me know. I have some friends I can send your way. :)</span>Debhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14702876813807591022noreply@blogger.com1