tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-295205689019071712024-03-13T23:31:41.548-05:00Living CreativelyWendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.comBlogger946125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-4767131977854255202018-09-28T14:32:00.000-05:002018-09-28T14:32:01.307-05:00Muffin tin baby playI don't know if annnnyone is out there, after I neglected my blog for **cough, cough** 4 YEARS. But I'm writing anyway, to record activities, memories, outings.<br />
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Quick update:</div>
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Moved back from Texas , to Arkansas. Found great location, right on a creek. Had triplets. YES, triplets.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Then Belle graduated high school. Boys are still busy with Tae Kwon Do, mowing jobs, church activities. Babies are 8 months old now, and so much fun! Today we played with balls in old muffin tins.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm trying to get creative with their play, so none of us get bored. A broad range of activities is great for everyone. </div>
Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-90373028941215036722014-04-09T18:24:00.000-05:002014-04-09T18:24:13.449-05:00Moving PlansWell, it looks like we have some official plans now. We'll be moving back to Arkansas this summer. I've known, tentatively, for about a month now. I was waiting to tell people until I could come to terms with it. ;)<br />Don't get me wrong, I love my friends and family. I love the beauty of the Ozarks....the hills, rivers, caves. I adore all that! I grew up hiking in those woods, canoeing those waters.<br />
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However, it was my dream to move farther south. I know eternal summer isn't for everyone, but I'm pretty dang happy with it. And I love the beach. <i><span style="font-size: large;">Love.</span></i> Plus, we had started to make great friends in our last city, and joined a wonderful homeschool group. I was hoping our plan would be to move back to that city, as soon as we were able.<br />
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The things is, Fred is just not happy here. It doesn't feel like home to him. Growing up, I had traveled quite a bit and moved across the country....but Fred spent his entire life in Northwest Arkansas, and being uprooted has been very hard for him. Couple that with the cultural differences I mentioned before, and Fred is ready to haul it all back "home." I get that. Really I do. I've been lonely, too.<br />
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He tried this for me, and I can't express my appreciation. When we leave Texas, in June, I'll have had almost a year to live my dream near the coast. <span style="color: #073763; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">An extended summer-y vacation</span>. And, if nothing else, it has brought us closer together. We came here knowing NO ONE. We did everything together, tried new things, explored, made friends, got involved.<br />
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We also missed an unusually cold and long Arkansas winter. Perhaps that's why God set this whole thing in motion. ;) <br />
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Still. Guys, I was HERE on Monday. On the pier, overlooking the bay at South Padre Island. </div>
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Just a regular Girls Night out. </div>
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I'm going to miss that, fiercely. </div>
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Sunsets over the ocean are something I don't take for granted. </div>
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Amazing. </div>
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Okay, yada yada. It's going to be hard for me.<br />
But Fred brought me here, because my heart desired it. His heart desires to go back, and I will follow him. We'll return to our gorgeous hills and cliffs, caverns and caves, rivers....things that are hard, if not impossible, to find around here. We'll return to our friends and family, who I have also missed, fiercely. The beauty is that we can really be happy either place! We'll continue to travel and explore, wherever we're planted! So, while part of me feels sad about leaving, I am truly also excited about returning to our wonderful area in the beauty of Arkansas!Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-60854724150273163362014-04-01T18:28:00.000-05:002014-04-01T18:28:22.759-05:00The Long Version, living dreams even with shadows<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open+Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; padding: 0px 0px 15px;">
Here's the real catcher-upper for y'all. We moved to Texas last summer. You know that. Tiny little house with not enough space, no dishwasher, no dryer. Old school all the way. We enjoyed the town, but knew the housing was a VERY temporary situation. And then the roof started to leak. I mean, rivers of water coming directly into the house. Our landlord, a wonderful single mom, fixed the roof, with my help. </div>
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And then we discovered mold. </div>
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She tried cutting the section of wall out, which only revealed more mold inside the walls. At that point, we asked to be released from our lease. We had paid the first several months in advance. We had helped repair anything that needed fixing. But mold was out of our league, and she didn't have the resources to fix the problem either. The house really shouldn't have been offered for rent in the first place, but I understand that sometimes people are simply trying to survive. Our landlord was very apologetic, very understanding, and immediately released us from our 6-month lease. She is a kind and wonderful mother and a sweet friend. I hope and pray that she gets the help she needs to repair her own home and also her rental house. She was trying, hard.</div>
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At that point, we decided to move closer to my husband's job. We scoured Craigslist and facebook and the paper; all the usual housing haunts. And came across a great one-- comfortable 4 bedroom, 2 bath, brick home in a gated community within our price range. And it would cut my husband's commute by more then half! We jumped at it, and we got it. In December, we moved to a much smaller town, closer to Fred's job, but much farther from my beloved beach.</div>
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Okay, and here things get sticky. We were pretty much out of money, after moving twice within 4 months. Plus, Christmas. We did a totally giftless Christmas, out of absolute necessity. Food and bills.... or presents? Well, the choice is obvious. The kids had presents to open, sent from grandparents, but ours came later, in January. </div>
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My husband began to get depressed. We didn't really know anyone at all. He wasn't being treated kindly or fairly at work. (For example, our Christmas ham was given to someone else, because my husband was on duty when they were being given out. It was supposed to be held for us, but no such luck. And, at the time, we could have really used that ham, by golly!!) </div>
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He was homesick and lonely. And I was lonely. I mean, really REALLY lonely. In our last city, I had joined a homeschool group, gotten involved, made friends in the area. We left all that. The kids left the friends they had just made. Moving twice within a few months is hard, y'all.</div>
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There are also cultural differences here, that we are growing accustomed to. People greet each other differently, play somewhat differently, and in general parent very differently. We are the minority, by far, and many people do not speak English at all, which definitely adds to our feeling of isolation.</div>
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Okay, so there's your background. Now couple that with a temporary lack of medical insurance, while my husband switched companies. I went from having my regular anti-anxiety meds, to needing to taper off completely. For awhile, that was okay. After all, my main issue is SAD, and I figured that it would be less of an issue in a warm, sunny subtropical climate. For the first time, in as long as I can remember, the winter alone was not bringing me to my knees. I was lonely, but functioning okay. </div>
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However, by February, I was frustrated and overwhelmed. I could not seem to think straight and was crying over stupid stuff. I was snapping at Fred, and he was snapping back. </div>
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I feel awkward admitting to other Christians that I have a problem with depression because, after all, the joy of the Lord is our strength. </div>
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By the end of March, I had stopped exercising and doing art. I didn't want to go out. Why bother? I didn't know anyone anyway. I was going through the motions with school, but the joy had slowly seeped out.</div>
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My husband realized at that point, I think, that I wasn't going to help myself. He told me we were going to the walk-in clinic. I didn't want to shower and get ready. He simply said, "Fine. You can just go like that." And we did.</div>
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The doctor explained it this way… If a diabetic decided to stop taking her medication, what would happen? Then, how can I deprive myself of what my body needs and expect a different result? Kudos to the doctor. She was wonderful, understanding, kind. </div>
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Why do I suffer from chronic depression that needs to be treated with medication? I have no idea. I don’t think we will ever know what factors cause some people to be more prone. I know I need medication. I am no longer fighting that. I accept that. I'm more "Me" with it, than without. It's who I am, just as my very low blood pressure and curved spine are ME.</div>
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The thing is, depression happens to good people, to great moms, and sometimes, we just need some help. Even in the middle of living dreams, and having the greatest kids ever. :)</div>
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We're working on the other issues, too. While we enjoy the house we're in now, and we're very thankful for it, neither of us are happy in this teeny town of nothingness. Fred misses his family, in a big way, and doesn't feel like Texas is our home. I, on the other hand, love being this far south and LOVE the ocean. I miss our last city and the friends and homeschool group we had joined there. One way or the other, we will be moving again. Our options are open. Fred and I are praying about what's best for us. We're flexible, We're both willing to do whatever God wants us to do; whatever is in our family's best interest. We're both feeling happy again, with the plan to simply follow God and make this a mutual decision.</div>
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-72350145265167162022014-03-31T11:25:00.000-05:002014-03-31T11:27:29.904-05:00Snippets<br />
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I haven't spent much time around the computer lately, but last night I felt the urge to look up some old pictures. Then I spent a solid hour reminiscing through their toddler pictures and reading all the "funny things they say" tag through this blog. Makes my heart so happy!! And inspires me to blog more, if only for my own benefit. This is a journal that I'll never misplace!<br />
This is Oli's birthday week! My baby will be 7 on Friday! Today we are headed to the beach for Day 1. We've waited a month to head back to the sea, allowing time for the Winter Texans & spring breakers to enjoy it and then take off! It's a good 10 degrees cooler by the beach, so we're looking at mid-70s there today. Great for sand play and hiking by the shore, but still too cool to get in the water.<br />
Oliver is still as funny as he always was. The other day, I served fish sandwiches on sesame seed buns. A minute later, I hear him holler, "Mom! I have sandwich seeds!! Can we plant them?"<br />
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<br />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-78824556368685344432014-03-23T12:34:00.001-05:002014-03-23T12:34:41.088-05:00Still here, for now! Hi!! ((echo))<br />
We're still here, living in deep south Texas. And I've become invisible, sorry. ;) When we moved in December, it took me quite awhile to actually get cable/internet set up in our new home, so I all but abandoned facebook and other online networking.<br />
Not a lot has changed. We're enjoying our beautiful southern winter & early spring. It was about 90 degrees here yesterday, which I consider nearly perfect.<br />
Sunshine, soccer, bicycle rides. The perfect Saturday.<br />
We've avoided the beach like the plague this month, with all the spring breakers in the area. But soon the Winter Texans and spring breakers will be moving along, and we'll have beautiful beaches to ourselves from April- June.<br />
We've had a chance to see more of the world. Passports, check. We added Mexico to the list of places we've been. Far far different from our trip to Canada!!<br />
I do miss my hills and canyons, caves, and cliffs. There's such beauty all over this world. In this chapter, we're enjoying the beaches and birding centers.<br />
Honestly, though, this move has been a particular struggle for my husband. The culture is very different. The climate isn't as agreeable to him as it is to me. The general area isn't as clean and friendly as what we're used to. This isn't home. And we don't plan to stay in this city much longer.<br />
We have big changes coming up this summer. Life is such a balance, of going where you're called, making the best choices for your family, year by year. We've moved more in the last year than in the previous 16 years combined. It's been a challenge but also an adventure. It's been a time of enormous growth for relationship. <br />
Prayers please, as we continue to settle wherever we're meant to be, and as I work on following my husband's lead. I'm not naturally good at following, and definitely need supernatural strength for it!<br />
<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-2613202490562661882013-12-14T23:17:00.001-06:002013-12-14T23:17:57.023-06:00Up in the airOh, y'all. I'm having a stressful moment. We're so up in the air right now. Boxes are packed all around me, making a little read-to-move igloo. And I just don't know what's going to happen. Wasn't I just in this waiting game a few months ago? Shouldn't I have learned to relax. Trust. Not stress out. <em>Man, that's so hard.</em><br />Our rental place now has served it's purpose, and we're moving on by the end of the month. We just don't know WHERE for sure! <br />Our landlords here have been amazing. For crying out loud, she just brought over chocolate cupcakes, for Fred's birthday tomorrow! {{heart}} They are so.very.sweet. <br />
But we've been dealing with a lot of problems with our place. And, despite their best attempts to remedy the situation, it's going to require some intensive work, due to water and mold damage. They have released us from our lease, and we're all packed up.<br />Now. The <em>where.</em> <br />Fred is working 40 minutes from here, and it would make a world of difference for him, if we can shorten that commute. We're working on getting a house that's only about 5 minutes from his route, but we won't find out until sometimes this next week if it's ours. The wait!!! Ahhh!<br />
Did I mention that his birthday is tomorrow, and Christmas is 10 days away? And my home is in boxes. {deep breath} It's the uncertainty that pains me. <br />And, also, I miss my color! I was just over at <a href="http://sara-mincy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sara's Art House</a>, oohing and aahing over the color and happiness. Oh-- I miss my packed-up color happiness, my craft supplies, my pom poms for little hands to play with, my bright dishes!<br />Pray for us? For a home soon. For answers and security. We love it here in the Rio Grande Valley. The people have been amazing to us. The weather is fantastic. We just need <em>our place. </em>:) Thank you! <br /><br />
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-84089096139998902722013-12-01T18:42:00.001-06:002013-12-01T18:42:33.495-06:00A Merry Little (early) Coastal Christmas<div style="text-align: center;">
The kids and I are excited about Christmas on the coast, y'all!!</div>
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It's our new theme. </div>
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When we moved, we sold or gave away about half of what we owned. We simply didn't have room to bring it all. That included our Christmas tree and much of our décor. (Yes, that was hard.) I think there's still a box of stuff in my grandfather's garage, too....including our stockings. Need to get those!</div>
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Thankfully, we found adorable mini trees at the 99 cent store! And a large white tree at Goodwill for a whooping 10 bucks. We bought two packages of ornaments, also from the 99 cent store, and gathered the rest along the coast. Proof that you can decorate on a budget! ;) </div>
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Wanting to stick to our coastal theme, but not spend a fortune ordering a bazillion cards, we decided to make them. Time to get creative!</div>
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This is what we came up with:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Seas and Greetings!</span></div>
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Four little elves helped me draw, cut, and glue.</div>
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There you have it. Family-made and coastal themed! </div>
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The best part is that everyone could contribute. </div>
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(plus, glitter- and sequin-use, which is a given.)</div>
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-87838047112322500772013-11-30T22:43:00.002-06:002013-11-30T22:44:25.430-06:00The great resurfacing<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hi!</div>
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It's me! </div>
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I'm still alive...down here in TEXAS.</div>
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Yep, we moved. We made it. And I promptly got busy unpacking, exploring our new area, getting to know the homeschool group. And forgot all about this here blog. </div>
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Oops. Sorry. </div>
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But, now that everyone is gone and thinks this online home has perished, I'm back! </div>
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Resurfacing, y'all. Even if there are no y'alls left. </div>
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I miss the writing, recording. I miss the inspiration that I feel when I start planning and showing.</div>
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Okay, so if this is for myself-- <em>Hellloooooo</em> <span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">((echo echo))--</span> </div>
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Here's what happened, in a nutshell~</div>
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Fred quit his job, we drove the almost-1K miles down to the tip of Texas, to a sweet rental house. We bought state park passes, started our every-few-days to the beach excursions, and settled into our Texas lives. </div>
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Fred got a great job here (although not a great schedule--eek) and I'm working on resuscitating my art, among other things.</div>
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Oh, and I made friends. </div>
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And went parasailing!</div>
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Yep, good stuff happenin' down on the tip of the US.</div>
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Perhaps the best thing, right now, is that it's nearly December (an hour left of November, in my time zone) and I'm okay with that. </div>
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This is<em><span style="font-size: large;"> huge</span></em>. </div>
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Winter usually kills me. </div>
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But here, on the Gulf of Mexico, we're still wearing shorts. </div>
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I still have sunshine. </div>
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My windows were open today. </div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">And my soul rejoices</span>.</div>
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We left because I couldn't do another winter.</div>
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I thank God for making our move successful, providing for our needs along the way, and giving us peace about the unknown.</div>
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Now that I've run down the gist of the last few months, I can get to the artiness and daily living stuff on next posts. </div>
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<em>I'm back!</em> </div>
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-26370987890910419432013-06-06T23:14:00.001-05:002013-06-07T16:56:29.641-05:00IF you could do anything....I haven't updated in two months but, really, not a lot has changed. The house is on the market. Within 48 hours, we had an offer and accepted. From there, though, things fell apart. Our buyers couldn't get their financing and, like happens so often, the deal was off and our house went back on the market. Things are looking good, though, with multiple showings a week. I'm confident that it will sell quickly, and we'll be on our merry way. <br />
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This whole venture is out of our comfort zone. I mean, who has four kids and just up and moves across the country? (Okay, not clear across the country, but a good 900+ miles away, so it counts in my book.) So what started it all? One day I thought, "What would we do, if we could do anything? Where would we go?" followed shortly by, "....and why can't we?" So there you have it. We discussed, prayed, strategized, and starting making moment-by-moment choices that would lead us on that path. Because sometimes you just have to ask yourself, "where do we want to be in 5 years?" and make the necessary adjustments. <br />
Otherwise, obviously, you will rarely get where you aim to be. <br />
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Nothing will change in your life if you don't do something different from what you have been doing. </div>
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E. Perry Good</div>
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Sometimes it's the little things that we need to take control of, or alter. But occasionally those moments come along, when you are meant to just DO something big, something kinda crazy, to totally alter the course. Our lives here have been wonderful, with good friends and family surrounding us. It's just simply not where we're meant to be. And when you know, you just know. It is time.</div>
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I'm trying so hard to live purposefully <em>now</em>, while we're in limbo. Honestly, it feels like our life is on hold....hold ....hold....elevator music while we hold our breaths and wait for the new chapter to begin. I don't want to miss life as it happens NOW, though. <br />
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I want these moments remembered, captured, preserved. Sometimes-- probably most often-- the waiting is what reveals the most, and develops us. It's a game now, of bouncing our minds back to the present when preoccupation with the future threatens to take over, or worry rears its ugly head.<br />
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We've even had to remind the kids over and over, that<em> now</em> is where we are, and now is what will continue to be in the forefront of our minds. Like it or not, we all live in the now.<br />
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It's amazing watching kids work out their experiences through play. A friend of mine was just discussing this, in regard to her preschoolers playing "tornado" after the recent Oklahoma tornadoes, and threat of tornadoes here. <br />
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My kids, however, play "moving to Texas." I kid you not. My Littlest Guy will set up the dollhouse (naturally surrounded by dinosaurs, to stand guard) and the extra stuff is "put away because they're moving to Texas." Cracks.Me.Up. <br />
Their talk and explanations often follow, <em>"....when we move..."</em> And, yes, we talk about it. We plan and hope and dream. We know the grass isn't greener, it's just<em> "for us."</em> We know there will be obstacles, and we talk about these, with each other, and with the kids. I just don't want it to consume us. Job change, house change, state change, even climate change. It's big for us. But we've gotta take it day-by-day. <br />
The plan for our summer: Trust, Enjoy, eXpect great things, Act accordingly, and Savor the moment.<br />
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-1942558575119653132013-04-07T21:36:00.002-05:002013-04-07T21:36:55.927-05:00Dreaming Big & Moving OnI've been absent from blogland for awhile and, if you don't keep up with me via facebook, you may not know why. So here it is:<br />
We're planning to move. <br />
We are working every waking moment to get this house flawlessly cleaned, painted, decluttered and staged, to be put on the market by the end of the month. Yeah. Swallow that down. <br />
We're dreaming big, people. <span style="font-size: large;">Texas big. </span><br />
My great-aunt wrote and asked me why. Do we have family there? Does Fred have a job there? Friends? She's kind-hearted. Just curious.<br />
But the answers are:<br />
No, no, and no.<br />
So why?<br />
Because it's our dream. It always has been. <br />
I've wanted to move farther south for about as long as I can remember. <br />
I don't do winters well, friends.<br />
I suffer from <a href="http://health.yahoo.net/health/seasonal-affective-disorder" target="_blank">S.A.D.</a> in a big way. ((For my well-meaning friends, let me assure you, it's not something you can turn off and on. I can't snap and feel okay. I can't think of those less fortunate and suddenly feel all warm inside because I have a home.)) <br />
Symptoms can be treated with special lights, medication, etc, but why treat the symptoms when you can help fix the problem?<br />
Besides winter-onset-depression being an issue, our favorite activities are seasonal, and we only get to enjoy them about 6 months out of the year now. Moving to a climate that runs 20 degrees warmer in the winters is a HUGE incentive. Aaanndd, think about how much closer we'll be to the coast!! {sigh}<br />
We've waited, guys. A very long time. I've been married almost 16 years. Lived in our first little starter home for 10 1/2 years. It's been a patient wait. We've been happy here. Maybe a little crowded, but happy. And, really, it never<em> felt</em> too crowded until it was too cold to go outside. We've waited and we've waited, because the time wasn't right.<br />
Suddenly this year, it "felt" right. We knew. And then pieces started fitting together. It was as if they were magnetically drawn towards each other, just pulling and clicking into the right spots. Both of my parents started dating. My Papaw plans to move to NC when my aunt does. Suddenly these things that I was feeling responsibility for were taken care of (yes, I'm an Oldest Child.) <br />
Then Fred said "yes." He's always hesitated before. It wasn't the right time. But now, although nervous about it, he is excited and on-board. <br />
We started submitting applications and resumes, and got immediate responses, phone interviews. The jobs are there. Started looking around at homes. The costs are comparable. Suddenly it was no longer just a dream, but a plan. A PLAN.<br />
Because, really....<em>why not?</em> <br />
Why do people stay in jobs they hate? Or live where they'd rather not live? <br />
Whatever the reasons, I'm not okay with that. I want to pursue my dreams. At the very least, I can say I did. I tried.<br />
So, for the time being, everything but school and "house stuff" has been put on hold. <br />
We are pursuing a dream. <br />
We must walk consciously only part way toward our goal and then leap in the dark to our success.” <br />
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― Henry David Thoreau <br />
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“The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” <br />
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― Michelangelo Buonarroti<br />
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“If you're bored with life, if you don't get up every morning with a burning desire to do things, you don't have enough goals.” <br />
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― Lou Holtz<br />
“When defeat comes, accept it as a signal that your plans are not sound, rebuild those plans, and set sail once more toward your coveted goal.” <br />
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― Napoleon Hill <br />
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“Patience is not passive waiting. Patience is active acceptance of the process required to attain your goals and dreams.” <br />
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― Ray Davis
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These are a few of my inspiration quotes. Above all, I feel that this is God's plan for us, and He is directing us. I feel secure in that, and know that He is far more able than I am to work out the details. <br />
Pray for us? Support us emotionally? Even if you don't fully understand why we'd uproot and move, we'd appreciate your love and support. We all walk different paths. I believe this is part of ours. :) <br />
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-23923680970572499082013-03-27T21:04:00.000-05:002013-03-27T21:04:00.286-05:00Words with Friends<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
A few months ago, one of my boys took an extra long time brushing his teeth. </div>
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After he was in bed, I found this in the bathroom:</div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ6IeS-3-cE/UUfjTEH1s5I/AAAAAAAARIw/O0T1t3UA-jg/s1600/trev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ6IeS-3-cE/UUfjTEH1s5I/AAAAAAAARIw/O0T1t3UA-jg/s400/trev.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Yep, his name spelled out, in hair thinga majigies, combs, tooth brushes. </div>
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Creative spirit!</div>
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He started something, y'all, and my friends and family joined in! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ubM3zQvqsuk/UUfjP5GyWPI/AAAAAAAARIY/KqIwqNYWIok/s1600/bacon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ubM3zQvqsuk/UUfjP5GyWPI/AAAAAAAARIY/KqIwqNYWIok/s400/bacon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My dear friend <a href="http://www.thejoyfulchaos.com/" target="_blank">Suzanne</a>'s hubby did this from his office, in Little Rock, AR:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GqegbFAkZ-A/UUfjLsVgwyI/AAAAAAAARIQ/LYltPXi3OxE/s1600/hate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GqegbFAkZ-A/UUfjLsVgwyI/AAAAAAAARIQ/LYltPXi3OxE/s400/hate.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And she responded with this one, from her home:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KtOhhB6F68/UUfjRoPQOHI/AAAAAAAARIg/V0t5TMOt9jU/s1600/Love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KtOhhB6F68/UUfjRoPQOHI/AAAAAAAARIg/V0t5TMOt9jU/s400/Love.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Then I found some Joy, while hiking. </div>
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It is usually where I find the most joy-- </div>
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outside, with my kids, in the warmth and fresh air.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJzpw45tGbM/UUfjSksiK7I/AAAAAAAARIo/BDjJzac6cD0/s1600/joy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJzpw45tGbM/UUfjSksiK7I/AAAAAAAARIo/BDjJzac6cD0/s400/joy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another friend, <a href="http://lefthandedrabbit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ann-Marie</a>, sent this from her office in Rockford, Illinois:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dh8kio9Akuw/UUfjTyHTX1I/AAAAAAAARI4/TkWy3UFVJlw/s1600/work.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" psa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dh8kio9Akuw/UUfjTyHTX1I/AAAAAAAARI4/TkWy3UFVJlw/s400/work.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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(I totally thought that was toilet paper on her desk, at first glance!)</div>
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And, below....</div>
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behold, my dishes.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMByZZYJMvI/UUfjGD0zwSI/AAAAAAAARIA/cvJySrThdGA/s1600/word+sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMByZZYJMvI/UUfjGD0zwSI/AAAAAAAARIA/cvJySrThdGA/s400/word+sm.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Oh, and another from Suzanne. Isn't this sweet? :D</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_QdE6b8Xb4/UUfjJqvvLVI/AAAAAAAARII/tIOzrOkzfhQ/s1600/baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" psa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_QdE6b8Xb4/UUfjJqvvLVI/AAAAAAAARII/tIOzrOkzfhQ/s400/baby.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-49091536259838050642013-03-25T19:30:00.000-05:002013-03-25T19:30:00.978-05:00Meet Thor<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="color: #4c1130;"></span></em>This is our newest family member, Thor Joseph Adler. He is a pyr/golden lab mix, 9-weeks old. </div>
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Quite a large baby! Isn't his yawing face just precious? </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zul5ktsGL9o/UUfP6jWfcJI/AAAAAAAARFY/cnPi9t-i6m0/s1600/15sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zul5ktsGL9o/UUfP6jWfcJI/AAAAAAAARFY/cnPi9t-i6m0/s640/15sm.jpg" width="344" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My little sis, Julie</span></div>
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He's such a good pup-- always comes right to me when I call him. </div>
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He stays next to me (on a leash) while I run and walk, too. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gzN_59DYSE/UUfP9Mq0PzI/AAAAAAAARFg/nFJ-n2ZvX_0/s1600/22sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gzN_59DYSE/UUfP9Mq0PzI/AAAAAAAARFg/nFJ-n2ZvX_0/s640/22sm.JPG" width="524" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-34UaKk3t018/UUfP-HMpBgI/AAAAAAAARFo/kvsKApxB4s0/s1600/23.1sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-34UaKk3t018/UUfP-HMpBgI/AAAAAAAARFo/kvsKApxB4s0/s640/23.1sm.JPG" width="510" /></a></div>
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Awwwww, just <em><span style="font-size: large;">presh</span></em>, you have to admit. </div>
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I'm not a "dog person," but this little (big) guy stole my heart. </div>
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We puppy-sat him twice, and did a lot of reading before bringing him to our home. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6FCHCVno1iE/UUfP_dcpkSI/AAAAAAAARFw/mDYDu0HgKW4/s1600/24sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6FCHCVno1iE/UUfP_dcpkSI/AAAAAAAARFw/mDYDu0HgKW4/s640/24sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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He's like the Pied Piper-- neighborhood kids started coming out of the woodwork to give him some sugar. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvtIs2Iqcz8/UUfQBO9q3PI/AAAAAAAARF4/MjsJ7NqAOhs/s1600/26.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvtIs2Iqcz8/UUfQBO9q3PI/AAAAAAAARF4/MjsJ7NqAOhs/s640/26.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Are you a dog or cat person? Have any experience with Pyrenees or golden labs? We're cat owners, so most of this is new to us. I can read and read, but experience speaks louder. </div>
<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-59231046611556698852013-03-23T19:30:00.000-05:002013-03-23T19:30:00.975-05:00Pour Jons<div style="text-align: center;">
This coffee shop isn't just any old coffee shop, folks! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4hbCrXfF3BE/UUfbCBfTebI/AAAAAAAARHc/Xsi5A7TSgy0/s1600/1.1sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" psa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4hbCrXfF3BE/UUfbCBfTebI/AAAAAAAARHc/Xsi5A7TSgy0/s640/1.1sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Talk about combining great food and atmosphere!</div>
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She's so talented, friends. And she happens to be my Dad's girlfriend's daughter. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Mouthful, yes.)</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kU6GD1HvFJM/UUfbZtpyb-I/AAAAAAAARH8/12fbhU4v818/s1600/13sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kU6GD1HvFJM/UUfbZtpyb-I/AAAAAAAARH8/12fbhU4v818/s640/13sm.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
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Seeing as I have ZERO- ZIP- NADA musical talent, I greatly appreciate those who do. </div>
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Especially impressive to watch someone play guitar, harmonica, and sing.</div>
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Love Pour Jon's new vinyl shop, too! They even have the little 45s! And, believe it or not, I actually own a record player, and bought a few (including a record from the Rocky soundtrack, for my Man.) </div>
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Also. I want a brick wall like that in my home.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCiajHQlylk/UUfbC310WQI/AAAAAAAARHg/wb0gPzkkw8Q/s1600/1.2sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCiajHQlylk/UUfbC310WQI/AAAAAAAARHg/wb0gPzkkw8Q/s640/1.2sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How fun are these two?! Makes me want to go dye my hair all mermaid-like! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q82crRnEJk/UUfbDlbHgDI/AAAAAAAARHo/gqwe_0fm0RA/s1600/1.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q82crRnEJk/UUfbDlbHgDI/AAAAAAAARHo/gqwe_0fm0RA/s640/1.3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And, of course, my sister, feigning a fall out the open two-story window. <em>Niiiiice</em>, Julie. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Cd-r43TjiU/UUfbHqdqrFI/AAAAAAAARHw/_YS-8h-uQRE/s1600/22sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Cd-r43TjiU/UUfbHqdqrFI/AAAAAAAARHw/_YS-8h-uQRE/s640/22sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you live in my area, and haven't been to Pour Jons yet, you have to go!! </div>
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I highly recommend the French Toast Coffee. <em><span style="color: #4c1130;">//drool</span></em></div>
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" /></div>
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-82624978260249733132013-03-20T20:30:00.000-05:002013-03-20T20:30:00.796-05:00Volcano-making<div style="text-align: center;">
Remember those volcanoes we sculpted, using our <a href="http://wendyjanelle.blogspot.com/2013/03/boys-art-class.html" target="_blank">salt dough recipe</a>? </div>
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A week later, they were dry and ready to paint! </div>
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We used acrylics to paint the inside red, the outside brown, and add grass around the base. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3CjSc-fttA/UUfW8UHVdYI/AAAAAAAARGw/7xhmPFKOvwo/s1600/102sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" psa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3CjSc-fttA/UUfW8UHVdYI/AAAAAAAARGw/7xhmPFKOvwo/s640/102sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I gave them creative license with their eruptions. Some of them had an all-out explosion on their hands, and others had rather inactive volcanoes. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LabKdpnd9M8/UUfW9K_G8hI/AAAAAAAARG4/5g3Llx2jwdc/s1600/1sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" psa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LabKdpnd9M8/UUfW9K_G8hI/AAAAAAAARG4/5g3Llx2jwdc/s640/1sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Love how their personalities come out in their art. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h54LwAa6HHk/UUfW-Utd_XI/AAAAAAAARHA/gKsepE5Twk0/s1600/104sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" psa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h54LwAa6HHk/UUfW-Utd_XI/AAAAAAAARHA/gKsepE5Twk0/s640/104sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Progress, on some of their work:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hPUipqvHEaw/UUfW__xrgwI/AAAAAAAARHI/2JIjW5WQFDo/s1600/109sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hPUipqvHEaw/UUfW__xrgwI/AAAAAAAARHI/2JIjW5WQFDo/s640/109sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We'll add more dimension to our dioramas next time, with pebbles and twigs, etc. </div>
<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" /><br />
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-28831653518429026962013-03-19T20:30:00.000-05:002013-03-19T20:30:01.300-05:00Girls' Art Class<div style="text-align: center;">
For the last two weeks, we've been working on Folk Art drawings, </div>
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with lots of bold patterns and bright colors....</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sg_ZJGfRuWc/UUfSxTvq-tI/AAAAAAAARGY/-KlI2KuL4dk/s1600/210sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sg_ZJGfRuWc/UUfSxTvq-tI/AAAAAAAARGY/-KlI2KuL4dk/s640/210sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">{{amazing results!}}</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtnhqxSX3F8/UUfS3NEmR6I/AAAAAAAARGg/qjrnfAdRhqM/s1600/222sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtnhqxSX3F8/UUfS3NEmR6I/AAAAAAAARGg/qjrnfAdRhqM/s640/222sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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...and bead-making, with<a href="http://wendyjanelle.blogspot.com/2013/03/boys-art-class.html" target="_blank"> this salt dough recipe</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1vImfW_5i5U/UUfS5pO14PI/AAAAAAAARGo/vHyIMAZuVIY/s1600/214sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1vImfW_5i5U/UUfS5pO14PI/AAAAAAAARGo/vHyIMAZuVIY/s640/214sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jqPQWmglibE/UUfQsyT7uaI/AAAAAAAARGA/4PiT72B0KkU/s1600/5sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jqPQWmglibE/UUfQsyT7uaI/AAAAAAAARGA/4PiT72B0KkU/s640/5sm.jpg" width="508" /></a></div>
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We also make necklace pendants and itty bitty houses. </div>
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I can't tell you how delighted I was to see my little pupils painting their homes with stripes and polka dots! That's what I love about kids!!-- their imagination is the limit! </div>
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Round house? Why not! Polka dots and swirly doors? Sure! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PZ1R1CFsRHY/UUfQtvqsdOI/AAAAAAAARGI/Xwz78f-Qv0Y/s1600/6sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PZ1R1CFsRHY/UUfQtvqsdOI/AAAAAAAARGI/Xwz78f-Qv0Y/s640/6sm.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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It was sooooo gorgeous last week, so we did our lessons and snack break outside on the porch, </div>
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along with a little stretching (goofing off, whatev') </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1cLTLUFUoeo/UUfQuhzNyWI/AAAAAAAARGQ/WnYNHHQYYcs/s1600/10sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1cLTLUFUoeo/UUfQuhzNyWI/AAAAAAAARGQ/WnYNHHQYYcs/s640/10sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The sky is the limit!</div>
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Make some dough, mold your scuptures, and let air-dry. </div>
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(We left ours under the couch for a week, and painted them during the following lesson.)</div>
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Use tempera or acylics to paint them. </div>
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These are great, cheap, easy, personal Mother's and Father's Day gifts! </div>
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" /></div>
Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-6748077319471402632013-03-18T21:26:00.000-05:002013-03-18T21:26:13.114-05:00Spring days are here again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Things are starting to turn green again, y'all!! </div>
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We even hiked in tank tops and shorts last Saturday, and felt pretty sweaty after 5 miles. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQwR3XYca3w/UUfKg4FuyBI/AAAAAAAAREg/I0BfjLtW9BM/s1600/4sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" psa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQwR3XYca3w/UUfKg4FuyBI/AAAAAAAAREg/I0BfjLtW9BM/s640/4sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The breeze on top of the dam felt wonderful, and we took our snack/water break up there, </div>
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while watching boats go by, and rappellers descend.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtzZNUyTzQQ/UUfKiFtQ1WI/AAAAAAAAREo/jmgnE08dZn8/s1600/1.1sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtzZNUyTzQQ/UUfKiFtQ1WI/AAAAAAAAREo/jmgnE08dZn8/s640/1.1sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0fzGIlzSh5I/UUfLpkRObjI/AAAAAAAARFQ/zIZKt42-lkE/s1600/5sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0fzGIlzSh5I/UUfLpkRObjI/AAAAAAAARFQ/zIZKt42-lkE/s640/5sm.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
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THIS is why I stay in Arkansas. </div>
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I dislike the cold, wet lingering winters (I know, you Northerners, <em>I am a</em> <em>wimp</em>!!) </div>
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but I<em> looooove</em> the forests and hills, boulders and bluffs, rivers and caves. I love the abundant sunshine and gorgeous views. The Ozarks are truly one of the most beautiful places in the world, especially when everything turns bright and blooming. {sigh} Can't wait.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-49s39Uo6RM4/UUfKjRgiq2I/AAAAAAAAREw/2JBza1-kp8Q/s1600/9sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" psa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-49s39Uo6RM4/UUfKjRgiq2I/AAAAAAAAREw/2JBza1-kp8Q/s640/9sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Two of my four kids looking. ha. It's hard to get the whole crew still and facing the same direction!</span> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LYp7MvRwTR8/UUfKkulM35I/AAAAAAAARE4/4EfnSS4Nmvo/s1600/17sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LYp7MvRwTR8/UUfKkulM35I/AAAAAAAARE4/4EfnSS4Nmvo/s640/17sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OPe3209XiK8/UUfKnZVkdzI/AAAAAAAARFI/iNiRido7_3k/s1600/44sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" psa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OPe3209XiK8/UUfKnZVkdzI/AAAAAAAARFI/iNiRido7_3k/s640/44sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh, spring, hurry along!! I had to wear gloves on my bike ride again today, and I'd much rather don the tank top and shorts again instead!! </div>
<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-5256730204841925842013-03-07T15:08:00.000-06:002013-03-08T16:08:22.939-06:00Boys' Art Class<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In my Boys' Art Class, on Tuesday, we worked on <span class="fbPhotoCaptionText">Modigliani Self-Portraits in Chalk pastel!</span></div>
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<span class="fbPhotoCaptionText"></span>First, with our black paper in hand, we created creases to help with the proportions that <span class="fbPhotoCaptionText">Modigliani is so well-known for.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TFfAjmiNubE/UTfcjDKT95I/AAAAAAAARDY/LboUIz4455U/s1600/17sm+words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" jsa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TFfAjmiNubE/UTfcjDKT95I/AAAAAAAARDY/LboUIz4455U/s640/17sm+words.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DrCvZjJAxPk/UTfc9MS1TsI/AAAAAAAARDg/DuhwpxSjygA/s1600/1portraits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="347" jsa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DrCvZjJAxPk/UTfc9MS1TsI/AAAAAAAARDg/DuhwpxSjygA/s400/1portraits.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The boys were great about following directions, and listening to the very brief description of <span class="fbPhotoCaptionText">Modigliani's art.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXvN05KKL8E/UTfc_NCUhAI/AAAAAAAARDo/tsr6uYwF4jw/s1600/1sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" jsa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXvN05KKL8E/UTfc_NCUhAI/AAAAAAAARDo/tsr6uYwF4jw/s640/1sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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After sketching out their self-portraits, they colored them in entirely, and started adding the details. </div>
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We talked about blending pastels, and how to use fingers to smooth the color around.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6zvkFJWi-As/UTfc_l_E-MI/AAAAAAAARDw/pR8o7ocJryc/s1600/3sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" jsa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6zvkFJWi-As/UTfc_l_E-MI/AAAAAAAARDw/pR8o7ocJryc/s640/3sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="fbPhotoCaptionText">Modigliani also typically left his portraits with a "blank" stare (think- no eyeballs), but only two of my students wanted to leave their self-portraits like that, which is okay. It IS a bit creepy looking.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1M26wvHRdc/UTfibC58zKI/AAAAAAAAREM/9fVlTfDfDuw/s1600/Amadeo_Modigliani_042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" jsa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1M26wvHRdc/UTfibC58zKI/AAAAAAAAREM/9fVlTfDfDuw/s320/Amadeo_Modigliani_042.jpg" width="189" /></a></div>
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Next, they outlined their entire portrait in black pastel.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFDjwd25sf8/UTfdAUNHmjI/AAAAAAAARD4/ewvJWR94knI/s1600/16sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" jsa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFDjwd25sf8/UTfdAUNHmjI/AAAAAAAARD4/ewvJWR94knI/s640/16sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">I love that this sweet little dude even copied the pattern on his shirt! </span></div>
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In our remaining time, we molded volcanoes out of the air-dry modeling clay I had mixed up before class.</div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xQ6xHR_JjKM/UTfdCIfco-I/AAAAAAAAREA/hfwcOpowE4g/s1600/18sm+words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" jsa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xQ6xHR_JjKM/UTfdCIfco-I/AAAAAAAAREA/hfwcOpowE4g/s640/18sm+words.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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By our next class, they will be dry and ready to paint! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy art every day, folks! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's all around you, in everything you see! </span></div>
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-91731775173793698042013-03-06T06:00:00.000-06:002013-03-06T06:00:02.516-06:00Jello Playdough in Art<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
The best thing about jello playdough? It smells<em><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: #741b47;"> aaaamazing</span></span></span></em>!</div>
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Your whole house will smell marvelously yummy while you cook this.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rNC6BakXwAU/UTa71sd3f6I/AAAAAAAARDM/MTWL3Lk43pg/s1600/22sm2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="406" jsa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rNC6BakXwAU/UTa71sd3f6I/AAAAAAAARDM/MTWL3Lk43pg/s640/22sm2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_DOrwLrCLA8/UTa4M_oDKlI/AAAAAAAARCQ/u_uHA8ihFZw/s1600/1+playdough+stuff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" jsa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_DOrwLrCLA8/UTa4M_oDKlI/AAAAAAAARCQ/u_uHA8ihFZw/s400/1+playdough+stuff.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I hadn't intended to make more playdough so soon, but our art lesson with professional artist John Lasater required play dough in primary colors. And, wouldn't you know it, Wal-Mart had only blue and yellow. Being in this little town, with no Target or other means to search for red playdough, we decided to make our own! </div>
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Below, my amazing Jello Playdough Chef. </div>
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He poured, he mixed, and he was the first to try out the goods. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YHdWSPeAZFM/UTa4NT6FgpI/AAAAAAAARCY/75hEhInd4Bw/s1600/1+playdough+helper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" jsa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YHdWSPeAZFM/UTa4NT6FgpI/AAAAAAAARCY/75hEhInd4Bw/s400/1+playdough+helper.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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~Jello Playdough~</div>
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•1 cup of flour</div>
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•2 Tbs salt</div>
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•2 Tbs cream of tarter</div>
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•1 cup water</div>
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•2 Tbs oil - (I used canola oil, but I'm sure any edible oil would work!)</div>
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•1 3oz. pack of Jello in the color of your choice (the off-brand will work fine)</div>
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I doubled this recipe, for our group.</div>
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First, mix all your ingredients in a pan or pot.</div>
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Mix in your jello and watch it turn a <span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">bright</span> color! This is the <span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">strawberry flavor</span>.</div>
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After it's mixed, turn the heat to medium-high and stir constantly.<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Works those arm muscles!</span> </div>
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It will start smelling <em>great</em>. It will also start slowly thickening and clumping together, after about 2 minutes. It's done in about 6-7 minutes. Just make sure there aren't wet areas, and it's in a ball.</div>
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Let cool. If it seems a bit sticky, add a touch more flour. It should be smooth and pliable.</div>
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Store in an airtight container or plastic bag, and it should last quite a long time. </div>
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It was a hit with the little artists! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EFlSa9vNqak/UTa4QBEBMrI/AAAAAAAARCo/LzHKwexvZW0/s1600/1sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" jsa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EFlSa9vNqak/UTa4QBEBMrI/AAAAAAAARCo/LzHKwexvZW0/s640/1sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A huge thanks to our guest speaker, John, for the lesson he shared about values, hues, and color mixing! </div>
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Our homeschool group has so many wonderful opportunities and so much support!!! </div>
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I love watching kids take such joy in art! </div>
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When I grow up (ha) I'm going to be an elementary art teacher!! -- </div>
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....wait, I already get to do that! </div>
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I live such a great life! :D</div>
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-51476628376666810062013-03-05T06:30:00.000-06:002013-03-05T06:30:02.351-06:00International PenPals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kids are studying Germany right now, and we're lucky to now have not one, but<em> two</em> international penpals, both in <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Germany</span>! <span style="color: #741b47;">Woot!</span> </div>
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One of our penpals, Sybille, stayed with my family when I was in high school. </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I can't imagine how hard it must be for foreign exchange students, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">to be thrust into totally new surroundings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">But I am so thankful that she braved the new country and joined our family! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Over 15 years later, and we still consider Sybille one of our sisters. </span></div>
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She lives in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kassel" target="_blank">Kassel</a>, Germany. So it's one of our first places to study. </div>
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As far as the mail goes, it costs $1.10 to send an ounce to Germany, and takes about a week to get there.</div>
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Our other penpals, Miriam and her family, live in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kandern" target="_blank">Kandern</a>. </div>
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Their family recently moved there, as missionaries.</div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I was in high school, I met Miriam through our local homeschool group. I still remember spending the night with her, and getting up <em>eeeearly </em>in the morning to count cows. ;) Never could have imagined that, nearly 20 years later, our children would be writing letters back and forth across the world.</span><br />
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Here is our outgoing mail to them.</div>
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I do so loooove snail mail, giving and receiving.</div>
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The kids wrote letters, drew pictures, included some play American money, seals, verses.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-34r-pw5HYyY/UTFFHL41r8I/AAAAAAAARB4/oWDtdrQWN1U/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="448" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-34r-pw5HYyY/UTFFHL41r8I/AAAAAAAARB4/oWDtdrQWN1U/s640/1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I contributed by decorating the envelope with happy little characters.</div>
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(I have a love for stamps, too, and finally got to use some of these awesome blue cougar stamps!) </div>
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-64335746583795908272013-03-04T06:00:00.000-06:002013-03-04T06:00:19.325-06:00Homemade Dye-free Playdough Recipes<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pIO9qmYRjhw/US9dFED8RGI/AAAAAAAAQ9A/CrjslHv9C_A/s1600/5+words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pIO9qmYRjhw/US9dFED8RGI/AAAAAAAAQ9A/CrjslHv9C_A/s400/5+words.jpg" width="346" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGxtoWGBySQ/US9jv5SZjCI/AAAAAAAARAE/YJICJYrSbaM/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGxtoWGBySQ/US9jv5SZjCI/AAAAAAAARAE/YJICJYrSbaM/s640/1.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Just mix 1/2 cup white glue and 1 cup corn starch!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnaFCzzeAVk/US9jxz1JYFI/AAAAAAAARAM/FxhyhlRb2jM/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnaFCzzeAVk/US9jxz1JYFI/AAAAAAAARAM/FxhyhlRb2jM/s640/2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the consistency of modeling clay, not play dough. </div>
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It is thicker, a bit tougher, and a bit stickier. </div>
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My kids love it! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LVb-OSFcPZM/US9j1-sjA7I/AAAAAAAARAU/PpUrafwcHZ8/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LVb-OSFcPZM/US9j1-sjA7I/AAAAAAAARAU/PpUrafwcHZ8/s640/4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next, we decided to make some play dough, for a softer consistency.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UgzIx_6ZHQ8/US9dGqiEJ8I/AAAAAAAAQ9I/dyzrR64qTIM/s1600/6words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UgzIx_6ZHQ8/US9dGqiEJ8I/AAAAAAAAQ9I/dyzrR64qTIM/s640/6words.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the BEST recipe I've found! </div>
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It is soft and pliable, not at all sticky, perfect for shaping just about anything. </div>
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Love it! For both recipes, store the dough in an airtight container, when not in use.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7VmshhZrkQg/US9dHz39NlI/AAAAAAAAQ9Q/vLxZMBAP-3A/s1600/7.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7VmshhZrkQg/US9dHz39NlI/AAAAAAAAQ9Q/vLxZMBAP-3A/s400/7.1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-39359059640435886712013-03-01T19:00:00.000-06:002013-03-01T19:00:00.579-06:00Bright Partying!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had a little party for my art students, for the big V-Day.</div>
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I'll tell you, I ached to do the swirly bright cakes, and the rice krispie marshmallow treats that look like paintbrushes (check pinterest), and all that creative sugary awesomeness ...</div>
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BUT my family has issues with that much sugar, </div>
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plus we had gluten-free attendees and also vegetarian attendees.</div>
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Sooo.... </div>
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we stuck with turkey and cheese mini sandwiches on wheat, </div>
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some veggie-"meat" sandwiches, lots of fruit, nuts, olives, and so on.</div>
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The kids didn't miss the sugar a bit! <br />
Love these two little ones, stuffing their faces with healthy goodness! </div>
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The thing is, my boys are super-hyper. I know most boys are movers, tumblers, wall-climbers....</div>
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but two of mine almost seem to {{<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">vibrate}}</span> when they get too much sugar! </div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">*And then there's Fred. {sigh} That's a whole 'nother post!*</span></div>
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Everything in moderation, yes, but I know we still need to make some changes.</div>
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No more dyes, please! It's in everything from medicine to pickles to olives to jello. </div>
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I wonder how much dye we consume a year! I might have bright insides by now!</div>
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We also recently went with a dear friend and her kids, to Crazy Sock Jump Zone day (discounts!!) </div>
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I've known this sweet girl since she was born. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OxvwwIh7qs8/US1ggXV_7ZI/AAAAAAAAQ5o/bj6LbC-iKgw/s1600/11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OxvwwIh7qs8/US1ggXV_7ZI/AAAAAAAAQ5o/bj6LbC-iKgw/s640/11.JPG" width="426" /></a> </div>
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We managed to wrangle some of the kids into a photo. </div>
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Two of my boys are in red, my niece and nephew are the other blondies, </div>
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and the dark hair kiddos belong to October. </div>
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Love all these little munchkins!</div>
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Bright, Happy Party Central!</div>
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-45284100160414152013-02-27T19:00:00.001-06:002013-02-27T19:00:01.266-06:00Pull up your party panties! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Okay, folks, I went to the funnest, and<em> funniest</em>, Panty Exchange Party this past weekend!! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sGeIQbD97w/US1zryttunI/AAAAAAAAQ7Q/XFM6l-CZkbc/s1600/20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="428" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sGeIQbD97w/US1zryttunI/AAAAAAAAQ7Q/XFM6l-CZkbc/s640/20.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was hard to take many photos, while laughing so hard! </div>
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I cropped my friends right out, to protect the identities of those panty-owners. </div>
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Of course, the laughable 4X panties and the edible versions also made appearances. ;)<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So.Much.Laughing</span>.</div>
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Attendees RSVPed and our hostess handed out sizes to shop for. </div>
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The only rule was to keep the purchase under $10.</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These panty exchange parties really ought to sweep the nation! </span></div>
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-28238760511923611242013-02-26T18:02:00.001-06:002013-02-26T18:02:47.729-06:00In the sunshine<div style="text-align: center;">
My Girl took these photos, during our family hike on Sunday. </div>
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You can't tell now, what with snow crusting the ground, </div>
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but Sunday was absolutely gorgeous-- </div>
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sunny and warm enough to remove jackets while scaling the hills.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KAokVpR1Z4M/US1JJVnsSdI/AAAAAAAAQ1o/9ZdsYX-9hfg/s1600/1sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="468" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KAokVpR1Z4M/US1JJVnsSdI/AAAAAAAAQ1o/9ZdsYX-9hfg/s640/1sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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She captured some peaceful scenes along the way. </div>
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I love that she loves to see and capture the beauty around her.</div>
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She caught us examining crevices in the bluffs...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tHdOzs759Uw/US1JNKx-OTI/AAAAAAAAQ2I/1N9CST4sYig/s1600/5sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tHdOzs759Uw/US1JNKx-OTI/AAAAAAAAQ2I/1N9CST4sYig/s640/5sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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She got some good shots of her little brothers...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wv7cSQ5-Wxc/US1JLcfpWdI/AAAAAAAAQ14/Be_rHXTZmgI/s1600/6sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="472" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wv7cSQ5-Wxc/US1JLcfpWdI/AAAAAAAAQ14/Be_rHXTZmgI/s640/6sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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...and snuck some of me, while I snapped my own pics.... ;) ...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eiL02oOz310/US1JMt3DmyI/AAAAAAAAQ2A/EDwx5C-r82E/s1600/4sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="470" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eiL02oOz310/US1JMt3DmyI/AAAAAAAAQ2A/EDwx5C-r82E/s640/4sm.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So, of course, I did the same, and caught her taking pictures. </div>
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This has become a family affair, and I LOVE that! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9S8UpkAKbpw/US1KPyiQhxI/AAAAAAAAQ2U/0z6GcLyIk6g/s1600/2sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9S8UpkAKbpw/US1KPyiQhxI/AAAAAAAAQ2U/0z6GcLyIk6g/s640/2sm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm trying to spend as much time outside as possible, whenever the weather permits. <br />
Winters are so very hard for me. I despise being cold. I NEED sunshine in a serious way. In fact, I'm thinking seriously again about a way to leave here every winter. This area is <em>amazing</em> for most of the spring, all of the summer, and the first part of fall.... but the dreary wet cold winters are simply painful. <br />
Thanking God for every sunshiny day we get, especially when the temps climb high enough for family fun like this. <br />
Love this random pic, below, with my kidlings and Man, all looking and going a different direction. It was the perfect spot for our afternoon, with plenty of room to explore, climb, slide down, and dig for rocks.<br />
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-16145179967010550062013-02-19T15:26:00.001-06:002013-02-19T15:26:30.124-06:00Elementary VDay Par-tay!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of my favorite things about being the elementary coordinator is party-planning! </div>
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We had our Valentine's Party at the local bowling alley again this year. </div>
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We had roughly 65 bowlers + parents and babies. Nice fun crowd!</div>
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As always, it's open to everyone, but geared to elementary kids (what with the exchange boxes and stuff, although some adults<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> *ahem*</span> still enjoy this part, too!) </div>
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My lovely girl, although a middle-schooler now, still regularly participates in our parties.</div>
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Love this kid.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HBTXjg5MOc8/USPq84B2IpI/AAAAAAAAQxw/VsbzrLYpoTM/s1600/12+copysm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" mea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HBTXjg5MOc8/USPq84B2IpI/AAAAAAAAQxw/VsbzrLYpoTM/s640/12+copysm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tIZwUEEzU6U/USPrUj8aAkI/AAAAAAAAQyQ/qcsOE43vo1I/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" mea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tIZwUEEzU6U/USPrUj8aAkI/AAAAAAAAQyQ/qcsOE43vo1I/s640/3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We encourage everyone to get creative and make their own containers to bring.</div>
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This year I helped my Littlest Guy create his "face to eat candy," below.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vNT6PG-EVKQ/USPq_y8qkcI/AAAAAAAAQx4/2Q-PZ8bldi0/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" mea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vNT6PG-EVKQ/USPq_y8qkcI/AAAAAAAAQx4/2Q-PZ8bldi0/s640/19.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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Turned out fairly well, I think. One box + one oatmeal container, an 8x10 print (and a 4x6 print for extra skin to lengthen the jaw) and some clothes. He added the fedora, which was a nice touch! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e1alwXl1vRU/USPrCa7WCVI/AAAAAAAAQyA/6TI2wTV_4CE/s1600/23.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" mea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e1alwXl1vRU/USPrCa7WCVI/AAAAAAAAQyA/6TI2wTV_4CE/s640/23.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Love this adorable light saber valentine! We're big Star Wars fans over here.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTp3dXPHbWY/USPrHFgDExI/AAAAAAAAQyI/EmXWiPvrAMc/s1600/45.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" mea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTp3dXPHbWY/USPrHFgDExI/AAAAAAAAQyI/EmXWiPvrAMc/s640/45.JPG" width="510" /></a></div>
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Hope your V-Day was as fun as ours, </div>
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filled with love from family and friends, </div>
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and creative delights. </div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">~One of my favorite holidays!~</span></div>
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<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520568901907171.post-17356730813490043962013-02-14T07:00:00.000-06:002013-02-14T07:00:03.638-06:00Sneak kitchen peek<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We're all about games over here, every day, before, between subjects, and after school. </div>
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Go Ape is similar to Go Fish, but you collect three of each card, and must SHOW what you're asking for (stick out your tongue, cover your eyes, and so on...)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nqMI1Z7bjF8/URSDQH_vnoI/AAAAAAAAQp8/7PR-tvWdT2c/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" jea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nqMI1Z7bjF8/URSDQH_vnoI/AAAAAAAAQp8/7PR-tvWdT2c/s640/1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And, behind this pajama cutie pie, you can see my now-white kitchen! </div>
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Makes the colors pop more, don't you think? </div>
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Really brightens things up on dreary days.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I7-rErT64CA/URSDQn1m98I/AAAAAAAAQqE/fMpZ-f_vjGY/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" jea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I7-rErT64CA/URSDQn1m98I/AAAAAAAAQqE/fMpZ-f_vjGY/s640/2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<img src="http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll102/WendyJanelle/Wsig.png" />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03399663278970048427noreply@blogger.com0