tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-226605062024-03-14T14:48:56.031-04:00Naturally MomAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.comBlogger516125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-42318720227412796282015-03-29T16:13:00.000-04:002015-03-29T16:13:30.491-04:00Unschooling our livesWe have recently embarked on a new journey as a family. Well, truthfully this journey has been underway for some time now, but has been picking up speed lately and seems to have a known course. I am talking about unschooling. Over the years we have gone from planning to send our kids to public schools to realizing that homeschooling was much more a part of who we are. Now we are feeling like life brings us enough learning opportunities that forced school is not for us. Over the many conversations with other homeschooling Moms, countless books and web articles read, and seeing the benefits first hand of letting kids be free to learn in their own way and time, we have decided that unschooling seems to be a good fit for us.<br />
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So what is <a href="http://unschooling.com/what-is-unschooling/" target="_blank">unschooling</a>? Well, I think that there are so many answers to that question. This is a good website to help understand it a bit more: <a href="http://unschooling.com/">Unschooling.com</a> But for me, it means that I practice seeing life as a constant learning experience letting go of the idea that my kids need me to teach them. They may want me to teach them some things sometimes, but mostly they are content just doing it in their own way. I want to let my kids enjoy life as it unfolds and I see how much they thrive when they are given that freedom. <i> Childhood is not a rehearsal for adulthood.</i><br />
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I plan to share some of our experiences in this new found way of living with you. With 3 children running around, 2 babies in arms, and so much life to experience, I will do my best to share when I can. We are excited and feeling a sigh of relief looking forward to each day.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-63045235307761793462013-06-14T11:36:00.000-04:002013-06-14T11:36:09.173-04:00Planning Planning Planning!With the garden off and growing on it's own (thanks to all the rain), I am off to planning the rest of my summer. This weekend we have some fun planned for father's day and next week I am taking my 2 oldest kids to NYC to see "Matilda". It will be a fun filled, gluten-free, 2 days. I even found a new Paleo restaurant, <a href="http://hukitchen.com/" target="_blank">Hu Kitchen,</a> that I am really excited about. And I am looking forward to taking the kids to my favorite GF pizza/risotto place, <a href="http://www.risotteria.com/" target="_blank">Risotteria,</a> that I haven't been to in years. I think we are going to eat our way through the city for sure. This is the first time I will be away from my toddler, so that should be interesting. Must remember to bring my breast pump.<br />
And while we are planning all this fun, I am also in the middle for planning our annual <a href="http://www.annapolismusicaltheater.com/" target="_blank">musical theater summer camp</a> coming up at the end of next month. Actually the first day of camp is my daughters 9th birthday. Wow, must think about that too. :) Well, summer is my favorite time of year and as much planning as I am doing, I am also spending lots of time just relaxing and putting my feet in the sand and not forgetting to enjoy all the moments that I am planning for.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-69306059315027319632013-05-21T12:06:00.003-04:002013-05-21T12:06:59.641-04:00Spring has sprung! - Garden update <br />
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So, as you can see, Spring has Sprung here in our garden. As usual, we are busy working and making changes and enjoying our time on this little piece of earth. John built us a new deck in the garden so we can enjoy all the life that is growing around us. And he built this cute little bridge to take us of the gully to our chickens and berry gardens. It makes me so happy every time I walk across it. Thanks honey!<br />
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:: I let my back choi flower for the bees to enjoy<br />
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:: tiring to help these peas climb<br />
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::Sunflowers!<br />
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::squash......I hope the squash bugs doing get them this year.<br />
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:: Lots of lettuce<br />
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:: I planted blueberries all over the garden and they are thriving!<br />
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:: Chard and some kind of lettuce.<br />
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:: Just waiting for the cucumbers to climb their way up.<br />
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:: New Entrance......pretty fancy! Got it 70% off at a garden store last week.<br />
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:: My friend gave this too me last year. So pretty! (what is it called?)<br />
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:: Apples popping on "Apple" the apple tree. (how many times can I say apple in one sentence.?<br />
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:: Lemon balm patch.....makes the best "happy tea"<br />
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::Sage in bloom!<br />
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:: Our Hugel is doing well<br />
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:: View of new deck....now for a bar-b-q<br />
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::The chickens are so fabulous and easy pets to have<br />
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:: Garden I made right on top of my compost. Easy!<br />
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:: Another little area to play in near the chickens.<br />
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:: Spring Onions in front yard<br />
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You know, I would not call myself a gardener, although I love to garden. I am not an expert and that doesn't stop me. What I love about it is that you can try anything and make lots of mistakes and still have fun. Both my successes and failures are equally as enjoyable and I am always learning and in a state of amazement at the miracles in nature. Most of the time I forget what I even plant. I just love throwing some seed in the ground and hoping for the best. That way is it all the more exciting to see it come up and then eventually land on your plate, even if I am not always sure about what it is exactly. Best of all, gardening is my chance to get my hands dirty and forget about being perfect or doing things right. It is all about just being there and doing it.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-24498926730403006872013-05-01T15:27:00.001-04:002013-05-01T15:27:42.942-04:00Hope you had a wonderful May Day. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am blessed with a beautiful community. Thank you.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-91793425998806021622013-05-01T07:08:00.000-04:002013-05-01T09:04:53.265-04:00Happy May Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Today I feel gratitude for all that is. I woke up this morning with tears in my eyes remembering those that I will never hug again, but today I must look ahead. It is May Day. Spring is hear and new life is growing. Buds, sprigs, babies of all kinds are growing strong and vibrant as they should be. Although their strength is interdependent on the life that came before them, it is their turn to bask in the sun. And it is my turn to hold my loved ones close and feel the warmth on my back letting me know I am here and I am safe . It seems unfair to me that there must be death for new life. But It is that process of letting go and yet holding on at the same time to that spark. that love, that strength..... that the torch</span><span style="text-align: left;"> of life is passed on and never dies. </span></div>
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Happy May Day!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqwpcsCXEnc/UYDzte4e8UI/AAAAAAAAc-k/cCzeX0SoGxM/s1600/1-IMG_8034-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqwpcsCXEnc/UYDzte4e8UI/AAAAAAAAc-k/cCzeX0SoGxM/s640/1-IMG_8034-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-77634715971336688262013-04-25T07:29:00.000-04:002013-04-25T07:30:16.447-04:00Wild Violet Pops! Fun with Wild Eddibles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGbYHvh0YsE/UXkJxoh-OaI/AAAAAAAAcsM/lqYQTeRarX8/s1600/3-IMG_8125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGbYHvh0YsE/UXkJxoh-OaI/AAAAAAAAcsM/lqYQTeRarX8/s640/3-IMG_8125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These pops are not only beautiful, delicious and fun to make, but they are supper nutritious. Spring time is the perfect time of year to get outside and put those weeds to good use. <a href="http://www.motherearthnews.com/natural-health/sweet-violets-edible-flowers-zmaz84zloeck.aspx#axzz2RTHmF3RO" target="_blank">Violets</a> are full of vitamins and have so many<a href="http://www.motherearthnews.com/natural-health/sweet-violets-edible-flowers-zmaz84zloeck.aspx#axzz2RTHmF3RO" target="_blank"> health </a><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u>benefits</u></span>. My kids love collecting the violets, making these pops and we all love eating them. What a treat!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Wild Violet Pops</span><div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What you will need:</span></b></div>
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<li style="clear: both; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 1/2 cup freshly picked violets without stems (separated)</span></li>
<li style="clear: both; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5 cups boiling water</span></li>
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<li style="clear: both; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10 - 20 drops stevia or honey to taste</span></li>
<li style="clear: both; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">1 t vanilla</span></span></li>
<li style="clear: both; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.zokuhome.com/" target="_blank">ZOKU Quick Pop Mold</a></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pour boiling water over 2 cups of violets in a glass bowl. Let sit covered for 6 - 8 hours to create an infusion. Stain the flowers out of the water. The water should be a pretty blue color now. Add the lemon and watch the magic happen. Then add your vanilla and sweetener to taste. Place the other 1/2 cup of violets in a glass of water. Using tweezers, take the wet violets out of the glass and place them on the insides of your <a href="http://www.zokuhome.com/" target="_blank">ZOKU</a> pop mold. They should stick to the side. Then place your stick in mold and you are ready to pour in your liquid. Watch it freeze in about 7 minutes and then enjoy this spring time treat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvM9Cor_0GA/UXkKCuLV03I/AAAAAAAAcsk/pKRaH2B2kYE/s1600/6-IMG_8110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvM9Cor_0GA/UXkKCuLV03I/AAAAAAAAcsk/pKRaH2B2kYE/s640/6-IMG_8110.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-17358253476291115322013-04-04T06:41:00.001-04:002013-04-04T06:41:29.213-04:00Best Banana Nut Pancakes (Gluten Free, Grain Free, GAPS, Paleo)<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VqtZ9Hdp15I/UV1XPlLlqkI/AAAAAAAAb1M/wRogZ-gdaLg/s1600/1-IMG_6593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VqtZ9Hdp15I/UV1XPlLlqkI/AAAAAAAAb1M/wRogZ-gdaLg/s640/1-IMG_6593.JPG" width="640" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">
Here are some yummy pancakes that we have been loving lately. Hope you try them!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Best Banana Nut Pancakes</span></b> (Gluten Free, Grain Free, GAPS, Paleo)</div>
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6 T Coconut flour</div>
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6 Eggs</div>
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3/4 C Milk (you can use coconut milk)</div>
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A Couple Pinches Baking Soda</div>
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1 Banana, chopped</div>
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1/2 C Finely Chopped<a href="http://thenourishingcook.com/crispy-almonds/"> Crispy </a><a href="http://thenourishingcook.com/crispy-almonds/">Almonds</a></div>
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1 t GF Vanilla</div>
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Use butter, coconut oil or lard to fry them up in a pan. Make them small as they will be easier to flip. </div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-54075917811768236132013-03-01T06:00:00.000-05:002013-03-01T06:00:19.178-05:00happy belated valentines day post! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A time for love, a time for sharing, and a time for sharing the love with those you love. I can't think of a better way to do all that then to get cooking together. We made these delicious grain free, almond cranberry upside down cakes for our valentines breakfast this year. Yummy!</div>
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John surprised me with these beauties. </div>
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He never forgets the golden rule for a cook.....taste, taste, taste.</div>
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Teaching his little brother why cooking is so much fun!</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-69803538350012773882013-02-16T19:00:00.000-05:002013-02-16T19:00:26.336-05:00on the slopes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I took the kids to White Tail to ski yesterday. It was their first time in skis and we had a blast and are planning our next trip already.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-42465987617728683682013-01-25T07:56:00.001-05:002013-01-25T07:56:02.619-05:00This Moment : 4th generation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #686868; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">T</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #825a2d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">his is a special moment from the past week that I want to stop, savor and enjoy. If you are so inspired, please leave a comment for me with your own special moment and check out other moments this morning at<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2135473730" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: initial;"> </a></span></span><span style="color: #888888;"><a href="http://www.soulemama.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">soulemama.</a></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"><a href="http://www.soulemama.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank"> </a></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mNHAb6aaxyI/UQKAnYVhKNI/AAAAAAAAXTo/TwZmwkBcuBQ/s1600/1-IMG_5389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mNHAb6aaxyI/UQKAnYVhKNI/AAAAAAAAXTo/TwZmwkBcuBQ/s640/1-IMG_5389.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-65762900371906482832013-01-14T07:58:00.000-05:002013-01-14T07:59:44.444-05:00finding eggs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My sweet five year old boy brings so much joy to my life. Here he is in his favorite scarecrow costume, at sunrise, finding an egg. I don't know what is more exciting, the egg or the delight on his face. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-58701973410432791482013-01-03T07:04:00.000-05:002013-01-03T07:18:28.270-05:00more of this<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The new year has brought some clarity to me. A wise friend of mine reminded me that clarity was something I was looking for as she gave me a handmade gift with "CLARITY" sweetly written on it for Christmas this year. She has a way of tuning in to the truth and I am so grateful for her friendship. Yes, clarity. Since then I have been pondering what that looks like for me. I realize I will never be completely clear about everything in this shades of grey world, but I can clear up the signal that runs from my gut to my brain. I can tune in to the station a bit more and just do what feels right. And right now, it feels so right to spend more time outside. Even in the middle of winter, the beach can be a great place to be clear. It can be as simple as that. It also feels right to focus on my own children and family more and allow others to create their own lives, fight their own battles, and win or lose on their own. I am feeling the need to be more available to my husband and children's needs and less mentally preoccupied with others. Making choices to be in community with people that lift me up and strengthen me. Yes, clarity is feeling pretty good right now. </div>
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<a href="http://katherinescorner.com/2013/01/03/thursday-favorite-things-blog-hop-69/">Thursday Favorite Things</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-34474621405324987422013-01-02T17:50:00.000-05:002013-01-02T17:50:22.960-05:00Amazing Grace<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aqCp5sZs8Q0" width="560"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-13352015689556836962012-12-31T20:12:00.002-05:002012-12-31T20:12:58.686-05:00 Happy New Year 2013! I really don't usually do new years resolutions, as I feel like each day I try (not necessarily successfully) to resolve to do and be a little better than the day before. But, as I move into this new year, I am taking the opportunity to think about my life up until this point and what I want to create in 2013. I have no clear answers, just ideas and feelings. The question I keep hearing is.... how do i create, allow, find, that joy, love, meaning, in each day, moment, encounter? The ideas and feelings that keep coming to mind are more togetherness, community, music, slowing, choices, surrendering, trusting, breathing. If I had to think of all the things that I would want for 2013, it would be a long list, but here are some of them...........<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I want to work hard. I want to play hard. I want to sweat. I want to laugh a lot and hear lots of laughter. I want to kiss a lot. I want to dance. I want to learn to love flying! I want to sleep. I want to let go of useless worries. I want to keep an open heart and mind. I want to play the piano. I want to sing for someone who wants to listen. I want to want less and give more. I want to hold my children and my niece any opportunity I get. I want to show my family how much I love them. I want my kids to feel how much I love them. I want to be swept off my feet. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Happy New Year 2013!</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-9046154328152553892012-12-25T07:17:00.004-05:002012-12-27T07:20:55.033-05:00making gluten-free maple sugar cookies <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Cookies are great, but making cookies with the two most loving Mothers and Grandmothers in the world is much, much sweeter. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lapXXz47UL8/UNmV4iqhQtI/AAAAAAAAUkQ/9K0EYo1KO-A/s1600/12-IMG_2606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lapXXz47UL8/UNmV4iqhQtI/AAAAAAAAUkQ/9K0EYo1KO-A/s640/12-IMG_2606.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I hope you can share this recipe with someone you love.</div>
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Happy Holidays!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><b><u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gluten-Free Maple Sugar Cookies (mega Batch)</span></u></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">5 Cups Maple Sugar</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2 cups butter</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">6 eggs </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1 T salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1/4 cup vanilla</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">3 cups GF White Rice Flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3 cups GF Potato Flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3 cups GF Arowroot Flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2 T xanthan gum</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2 T baking powder</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Preheat oven to 350° F. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Line some large baking sheets with parchment paper. </span></div>
<div class="instructions" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
<div style="display: inline !important; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Put dry ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk to thoroughly combine. </span></div>
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<div class="instructions" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
<div style="display: inline !important; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Place sugar,butter, vanilla and eggs in another bowl and mix. Beat on high until combined then add dry ingredients and beat on medium speed to combine.U</span></div>
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<div class="instructions" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">se a as much extra flour as you need to keep from sticking as you roll out and cut your shapes. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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Sharing with:<br />
www.katherinescorner.com<br />
And</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://kellythekitchenkop.com/2012/12/real-food-wednesday-12192012.html"><img height="164" src="http://kellythekitchenkop.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/RealFoodWednesdays2-315x259.jpg" style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; line-height: normal;" width="200" /></a><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-79235031277922503482012-12-23T05:41:00.001-05:002012-12-23T05:41:53.007-05:00a winter solstice yule log<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I9tgJgPLFFk/UNbfPW6e68I/AAAAAAAAUeQ/7yrEwRvYn00/s1600/1-IMG_2482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I9tgJgPLFFk/UNbfPW6e68I/AAAAAAAAUeQ/7yrEwRvYn00/s640/1-IMG_2482.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OaSNyO6BgMw/UNbfSyc8BGI/AAAAAAAAUeY/B6b72DGZKk0/s1600/2-IMG_2484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OaSNyO6BgMw/UNbfSyc8BGI/AAAAAAAAUeY/B6b72DGZKk0/s640/2-IMG_2484.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GvmiGFOQdUo/UNbfYREfcuI/AAAAAAAAUeg/G95dLFH-R80/s1600/3-IMG_2485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GvmiGFOQdUo/UNbfYREfcuI/AAAAAAAAUeg/G95dLFH-R80/s640/3-IMG_2485.JPG" width="432" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://naturallymom.blogspot.com/search?q=yule+log+pumpkin&x=0&y=0">You can find the recipe here! </a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-18383352270358156922012-12-18T07:29:00.000-05:002012-12-18T09:05:27.947-05:00"for good"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6g0ENJY8iRY/UNBdQawUtZI/AAAAAAAAUK4/UZHOv8l8cBw/s1600/3-IMG_2281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6g0ENJY8iRY/UNBdQawUtZI/AAAAAAAAUK4/UZHOv8l8cBw/s640/3-IMG_2281.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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At it's worst, the performing arts can be all about competition and stepping on others to push your way to the top. At its best, it can be a way to express joy and sadness at the same time with a single note. It can touch the heart of those in it's presence. It can enliven even the hardest of souls. It can be the ultimate communication tool. It can cross borders of every kind and link together each one of us with the sound that we all recognize. This weekend I brought some of my students to Baywoods of Annapolis, a retirement home, to perform some Broadway favorites and a few timeless holiday songs. The smiles and tears that spread around the room made me remember again why I love singing and theatre. It is not about who is best or even whether you did your best........but more, it is about the communication from performer to audience. That is where the magic happens. It is in that single moment, that exchange that takes place, that lives are changed......."for good". I know mine has been.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cCQlZO7Xeeg/UNBdJ_3cMYI/AAAAAAAAUKo/N9krfZgd10c/s1600/1-IMG_2295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cCQlZO7Xeeg/UNBdJ_3cMYI/AAAAAAAAUKo/N9krfZgd10c/s640/1-IMG_2295.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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"so much fun to see my daughter and son up there having a blast!"</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r06LuPQ740I/UNBdMexqGcI/AAAAAAAAUKw/Rfo4UzoDWAo/s1600/2-IMG_2325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r06LuPQ740I/UNBdMexqGcI/AAAAAAAAUKw/Rfo4UzoDWAo/s640/2-IMG_2325.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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I look forward to performing again for this beautiful community.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-netPOi3x6Nc/UNBdTmYsZZI/AAAAAAAAULA/qseiYpbG9Fk/s1600/4-IMG_2240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-netPOi3x6Nc/UNBdTmYsZZI/AAAAAAAAULA/qseiYpbG9Fk/s640/4-IMG_2240.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
sharing with:<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-26139401422902688892012-12-17T09:26:00.001-05:002012-12-20T10:36:38.197-05:00putting the love into it<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg7NHpV7t9A/UM8neMxPnvI/AAAAAAAAUJg/6nraESaZv5w/s1600/6-IMG_2036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg7NHpV7t9A/UM8neMxPnvI/AAAAAAAAUJg/6nraESaZv5w/s640/6-IMG_2036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finding those things that bring us together as a family is so important to me. Cooking is definitely one of those activities we all love to do together. The best part is that there is always a job for any size helper. And when the cooking is done and it is time to sit back and enjoy the fruits of our labor, we can always taste the love that has gone into it. "That surly is the secret ingredient!"</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBC1Y_SLHOU/UM8nabFlJGI/AAAAAAAAUJA/wJy6DRBKU_Y/s1600/1-IMG_2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBC1Y_SLHOU/UM8nabFlJGI/AAAAAAAAUJA/wJy6DRBKU_Y/s640/1-IMG_2016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YbzRD-ZYUnY/UM8nawog14I/AAAAAAAAUJI/XuZ-vAZJuYg/s1600/3-IMG_2030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YbzRD-ZYUnY/UM8nawog14I/AAAAAAAAUJI/XuZ-vAZJuYg/s640/3-IMG_2030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5uTTRRU7LgA/UM8ncTAqJCI/AAAAAAAAUJQ/oukXKSbwRaY/s1600/4-IMG_2034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5uTTRRU7LgA/UM8ncTAqJCI/AAAAAAAAUJQ/oukXKSbwRaY/s640/4-IMG_2034.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSHTxuTHRRA/UM8ndaph1jI/AAAAAAAAUJY/J9NnG1Bg5Yk/s1600/5-IMG_2028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSHTxuTHRRA/UM8ndaph1jI/AAAAAAAAUJY/J9NnG1Bg5Yk/s640/5-IMG_2028.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0usvCdxjKjI/UM8nez7Pp6I/AAAAAAAAUJo/ET6T4LySB1w/s1600/7-IMG_2056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0usvCdxjKjI/UM8nez7Pp6I/AAAAAAAAUJo/ET6T4LySB1w/s640/7-IMG_2056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We made gluten free gingerbread men cookies last year for the first time.You can find the recipe<a href="http://naturallymom.blogspot.com/2011/12/gluten-free-gingerbread-man-cookies_15.html"> here.</a></div>
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I hope you enjoy making and eating <a href="http://naturallymom.blogspot.com/2011/12/gluten-free-gingerbread-man-cookies_15.html">these cookies</a> a much as much awe have!</div>
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Sharing with:<br />
<a href="http://katherinescorner.com/2012/12/20/thursday-favorite-things-blog-hop-67/">Thursday Favorite Things</a><br />
<a href="http://toughcookiemommy.com/2012/12/monday-mingle-97.html#comments">Monday Mingle </a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-42843965077668436702012-12-16T06:25:00.001-05:002012-12-16T06:25:38.972-05:00hula-hoop weaving with finger-knittings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3y8ykaMrkk/UM2pDvQ7twI/AAAAAAAAT_w/tiIdE6Q6Uco/s1600/1-IMG_1972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3y8ykaMrkk/UM2pDvQ7twI/AAAAAAAAT_w/tiIdE6Q6Uco/s640/1-IMG_1972.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is a great holiday gift idea if your kids are like mine and have hundreds of finger-kitted snakes lining around. You can use any size you have (1, 2, 3, 4 finger knitted snakes) and then tie them all together to form a big ball. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Od6K2Sa9JK0/UM2niLnZzdI/AAAAAAAAT-8/-ino8rvOBY4/s1600/4-IMG_1930-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Od6K2Sa9JK0/UM2niLnZzdI/AAAAAAAAT-8/-ino8rvOBY4/s640/4-IMG_1930-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eDFf3IJUkhg/UM2neEm6rlI/AAAAAAAAT-w/BXoVYTUQ7lM/s1600/3-IMG_1932-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eDFf3IJUkhg/UM2neEm6rlI/AAAAAAAAT-w/BXoVYTUQ7lM/s640/3-IMG_1932-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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To create the loom, cut strips out of an old t-shirt and stretch around a hula hoop. We found that we needed 9 strips.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bv-_IOYqXEE/UM2n1BJkaDI/AAAAAAAAT_k/sWVwjDvzmfY/s1600/8-IMG_1924-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bv-_IOYqXEE/UM2n1BJkaDI/AAAAAAAAT_k/sWVwjDvzmfY/s640/8-IMG_1924-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eWruKQVZro/UM2nw8onZiI/AAAAAAAAT_c/rjVBqF08-Cg/s1600/7-IMG_1925-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eWruKQVZro/UM2nw8onZiI/AAAAAAAAT_c/rjVBqF08-Cg/s640/7-IMG_1925-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oJ5VwI86nw/UM2nr2_XFuI/AAAAAAAAT_U/nnGmAF2Bu3g/s1600/6-IMG_1926-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oJ5VwI86nw/UM2nr2_XFuI/AAAAAAAAT_U/nnGmAF2Bu3g/s640/6-IMG_1926-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPBrLnupOgo/UM2nmWAgAqI/AAAAAAAAT_I/Q5I97A3cgRk/s1600/5-IMG_1929-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPBrLnupOgo/UM2nmWAgAqI/AAAAAAAAT_I/Q5I97A3cgRk/s640/5-IMG_1929-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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When you are done stretching the fabric around the hoop their should be 18 "spokes" (don't know what else to call them). You will need to have an odd number in order to make the pattern turn out as desired so take one "spoke" and put together with another to form 17 "spokes". Each spoke will have to strips of fabric except the one with have four now. Then tie your finger-knitting to the center of the loom and start weaving in and out of the spokes. </div>
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You can make it as big or small as you like. These make create coasters, trivets, wall hangings, or even small rugs. The kids really got into it and we off and weaving all night and woke up the next morning ready to knit and weave again. I only helped them when they asked. Making mistakes is all part of the fun of learning a new skill and being creative. Each one they make they are getting better and better and coming up with new ideas as they weave.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_yObivQI25g/UM2nVN37_PI/AAAAAAAAT-g/XiJxMDU5AF8/s1600/1-IMG_1939-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_yObivQI25g/UM2nVN37_PI/AAAAAAAAT-g/XiJxMDU5AF8/s640/1-IMG_1939-002.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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When you are done, tie the end of your knitting to one spoke and cut your piece of art off the loom. Leave at least 3 inches of fabric strip when you cut it off so you can have room to tie them. After cutting them off take one of the two pieces of fabric and thread it around the last knitted rim and tie. Do this with each spoke all the way around. And there you have it! </div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3y8ykaMrkk/UM2pDvQ7twI/AAAAAAAAT_w/tiIdE6Q6Uco/s1600/1-IMG_1972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3y8ykaMrkk/UM2pDvQ7twI/AAAAAAAAT_w/tiIdE6Q6Uco/s640/1-IMG_1972.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-86225256521728904382012-12-14T06:56:00.001-05:002012-12-14T08:01:28.416-05:00ode to Fathering (building a toy chest with daddy)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0jR5u6PNgo/UMsK3j1mrmI/AAAAAAAATzg/8rlXV_J8wh0/s1600/1-IMG_1862-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0jR5u6PNgo/UMsK3j1mrmI/AAAAAAAATzg/8rlXV_J8wh0/s640/1-IMG_1862-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
John is such a wonderful father. I grew up without my dad around for most of my life. I had a wonderful Mother that more than made up for any gaps that might have been there, but it isn't until I had the opportunity to watch John Fathering our children, that I have seen the amazing possibilities and have stopped to wonder what would it have felt like? What would it have felt like to have a man in my life, my Father, who looked at me each day with love and adoration? What would it have felt like to know that my Father would rather be going for a walk with me, hand in hand, than traveling anywhere else in the world? What would it have felt like to be cuddled up with my father and know that snuggled up with me, listening to all my thoughts and dreams, was exactly where he wanted to be. What would it have felt like to know, so deep in my core, that my father would always be there for me and that no matter where I was or what I was doing, he would do anything in his power to be available to me and to let me know that he loved me and would never stop. What would it have felt like to have a father that showed his love through his actions and not just with his words. What would it have felt like to see the sparkle in my fathers eyes when I did a cartwheel, or sang a song, or told a joke? What would it have felt like to be tucked in bed each night and given a million kisses and hugs by this wonderful loving person I called my Daddy? What would life feel like with all those wonderful memories?<br />
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Well, I will never know........but I count my lucky stars every day that my children will know the answers to all those questions. For they have a father that gives them all he's got and more. I never dreamed I would have a partner like this. I was pretty sure I would never be able to find such a man...... and I thought I would be happy doing it alone. I am sure I would have survived and maybe even thrived.........but there is nothing that can take the place of a wonderful Father and partner. And each day I love him more and more!<br />
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This is a really heavy drill Daddy.......<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cR-Fr_zAmuA/UMsLDW1R9mI/AAAAAAAATz4/f2Dc9OZiIxE/s1600/4-IMG_1892-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cR-Fr_zAmuA/UMsLDW1R9mI/AAAAAAAATz4/f2Dc9OZiIxE/s640/4-IMG_1892-001.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Six hands are not necessarily faster then two, but certainly more fun.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9-usdLQoKiE/UMsLHtbil-I/AAAAAAAAT0E/hpfhma0E1yg/s1600/6-IMG_1898-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9-usdLQoKiE/UMsLHtbil-I/AAAAAAAAT0E/hpfhma0E1yg/s640/6-IMG_1898-001.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Hold on tight!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-78741348577036012872012-12-14T06:10:00.002-05:002012-12-14T06:10:55.852-05:00This Moment: little helper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #686868; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">T</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #825a2d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">his is a special moment from the past week that I want to stop, savor and enjoy. If you are so inspired, please leave a comment for me with your own special moment and check out other moments this morning at<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2135473730" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: initial;"> </a></span></span><span style="color: #888888;"><a href="http://www.soulemama.com/" target="_blank">soulemama.</a></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"><a href="http://www.soulemama.com/" target="_blank"> </a></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-45678194302038832452012-12-09T08:11:00.001-05:002012-12-09T08:11:29.248-05:00Christmas pastsAs Christmas comes around this year, I find myself thinking about how fast time has seemed to travel since we started having children. I started looking back at old photos of the kids and remembered times that had been locked away in memory and luckily captured in a snap shot.<br />
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2004</div>
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Jetta's first Christmas (4 months)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpWUva1rrHs/UMSE4Bslw4I/AAAAAAAASeQ/mSXL6eUCeqo/s1600/01-Priscilla_John_Jetta-(15).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpWUva1rrHs/UMSE4Bslw4I/AAAAAAAASeQ/mSXL6eUCeqo/s640/01-Priscilla_John_Jetta-(15).jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8WlAoLhTjo/UMSE4xL8p4I/AAAAAAAASeY/ex-41lmP6TI/s1600/02-baby_jetta+16246630001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8WlAoLhTjo/UMSE4xL8p4I/AAAAAAAASeY/ex-41lmP6TI/s640/02-baby_jetta+16246630001.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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2005 </div>
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Jetta's Second Christmas (16 months)</div>
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2006</div>
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Jetta's 3rd Christmas (2 years old and I am pregnant with Pilot)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k4oZcpOE1kc/UMSE_Dk9B3I/AAAAAAAASew/H7FD1w6ndEA/s1600/06-baby_jetta+46477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k4oZcpOE1kc/UMSE_Dk9B3I/AAAAAAAASew/H7FD1w6ndEA/s640/06-baby_jetta+46477.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zyrh_3OvIwA/UMSFDk2Ag4I/AAAAAAAASfA/pkSzOQweWyo/s1600/08-baby_jetta+46580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zyrh_3OvIwA/UMSFDk2Ag4I/AAAAAAAASfA/pkSzOQweWyo/s640/08-baby_jetta+46580.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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2007</div>
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Jetta's 4th Christmas (3 years), Pilot's 1st Christmas (9 Months)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_DBoLzdZO0/UMSHGp6AOgI/AAAAAAAAShU/H8MFinZ1Agg/s1600/09-2007_12_070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_DBoLzdZO0/UMSHGp6AOgI/AAAAAAAAShU/H8MFinZ1Agg/s640/09-2007_12_070.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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2008</div>
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Jetta's 5th Christmas (age 4) and Pilot's 2nd Christmas (age 2)</div>
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First solo tap dance performance</div>
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2009</div>
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Jetta's 6th Christmas (age 5) and Pilot's 3rd Christmas (age 3)</div>
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2010</div>
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Jetta's 7th Christmas (age 6) and Pilot's 4th Christmas (age 4)</div>
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2011</div>
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Jetta's 7th Christmas (age 6), Pilot's 4th Christmas (age 4) and Scout's 1st Christmas (2 months)</div>
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2012</div>
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Jetta's 8th Christmas (age 8), Pilot's 5th Christmas (age 5) and Scout's 2nd Christmas (14 months)</div>
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I can't believe it has been 8 years. Time does fly when you are having fun. And I have to say, we have had a ball! I do miss those babies. Sometimes you want to just stop time or go back and give them one more squeeze, but I live in gratitude for each day I get to spend with them, watching them grow up and becoming such wonderful people. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-84688436547583093212012-12-08T06:39:00.002-05:002012-12-08T06:47:33.401-05:00Jetta (age 8) singing I want a hippopotamus for Christmas<br />
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A little Christmas song to brighten your day!</h2>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-35609757992628647852012-12-07T06:32:00.003-05:002012-12-08T07:00:10.382-05:00this moment: a budding sous chef<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #686868; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">T</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #825a2d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">his is a special moment from the past week that I want to stop, savor and enjoy. If you are so inspired, please leave a comment for me with your own special moment and check out other moments this morning at<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2135473730" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: initial;"> </a></span></span><a href="http://soulemama.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: initial;">soulemama.</a></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00971280122684868287noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22660506.post-75107444105537244992012-12-06T13:18:00.003-05:002012-12-06T14:11:23.927-05:00making advent calendars- counting the days!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes, we are counting down the days! Each year the kids make their own advent calendars. As a child I always had the ones with chocolate in each window, but it is amazing how much joy the kids get out of finding their own creations each morning. </div>
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We used tissue paper to make trees that pop off the page. This year the kids wanted lots of colors. </div>
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We created stencils to make trace the boxes on the front and on the inner layer so the windows would line up. Then John cut the top layer windows out on three sides with an razor blade to create little doors.</div>
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And there always seems to be a little hand reaching up, searching, and hoping to find treasure. </div>
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