tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26581458266401303212024-03-13T10:15:21.756-04:00Under the Big Oak TreeAlisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.comBlogger782125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-68314698088484362182017-08-02T00:01:00.000-04:002017-08-02T00:01:00.201-04:00I love the 80'sGrace's school often has theme days. Twin Day, Sports Day, Pajama Day, Dress Like Your Favorite Teacher Day, etc. Usually these theme days stress me out. I have high anxiety when it comes to stuff like this and my kid is a bit high-anxiety as well. Not a good combination. <br />
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This year, the Grace's school had an 80's day! First, I laughed because most of the parents of the kids at school were either babies or not yet born in the 80's! But then, after thinking of all the possibilities, I started to get really excited! Especially, when I realized I had everything I needed to dress her up right at home. No trips to the store were needed for this theme day! <br />
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When Grace told Joe about the school event, he laughed and said just a wee bit sarcastically, "Oh, you're going to have the biggest hair in the school!" <br />
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I took that as a challenge! (Although, from the photo, it doesn't look all that big!)<br />
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It took me a little while to figure out which direction I was going to go with her outfit, but once I decided, I was thrilled with the outcome! <br />
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Layered tanks, skirts, leggings, boots with socks scrunched down, pink hair chalk (instead of pink hair spray) chunky jewelry, emoji buttons on denim jacket (in place of concert pins)....I think I had a bit too much fun putting this outfit together! <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-3894723847219287392017-05-18T11:37:00.000-04:002017-05-18T11:37:50.338-04:00Breakfast Under the OaksWow! What a beautiful day it is today! It's supposed to be another hot one and like yesterday, I'm enjoying a bit of fresh air and the shade of the oak trees in our yard. <br />
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Between attempting a little bit of gardening (more on this in a future post, along with an explanation of why I use the word <i><b>attempt</b></i>), I decided to grab a quick and somewhat healthy breakfast. <br />
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I'm really trying to get into the habit of eating breakfast in the morning. Too often I'm running around in the morning, getting Gracie and I ready for school and work, with just enough time to get us out the door without being late. Then realizing too late, that I forgot to eat (or didn't allow time for eating). This then leads to me grabbing something very unhealthy to eat in the car on my way to work. <br />
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With my hours dwindling down to just a day or two a week and summer vacation just a couple of weeks away, I hope it will be easier to get into the habit of sitting down to a decent breakfast each morning before running off to have some summer fun! <br />
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I think breakfast under the oaks will be a great way to start our summer mornings! <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-11786527949894064472017-05-17T13:53:00.000-04:002017-05-17T14:14:45.573-04:00Where I am today......Under the Big Oak Tree It's a hot one today! We don't have central air and Joe hasn't put the window units in yet since it's been really chilly up until now. <br />
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Lucky for me, our back yard is very shady thanks to our oak trees (and maple tree). <br />
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I filled the dog's pool so she can wet her feet to cool off and I'm relaxing at the picnic table under the trees. Perfect way to relax on a hot day! <br />
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You can find this post linked to the following blog parties: <br />
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<li><a href="http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2017/05/517-outdoor-wednesday-436.html" target="_blank">Outdoor Wednesday </a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-77843303647521543682017-05-17T12:49:00.000-04:002017-05-17T12:49:34.123-04:00Spending Less While Eating HealthyEating healthy is a constant struggle for me. Not because I don't LOVE healthy foods. As a foodie, I find that I LOVE food - ALL FOOD - too much! <br />
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And while I do love to eat big salads and lots of fresh fruit, I find it's so much easier to grab a bag of chips or some cookies rather than chopping up some melon or digging through the fruit drawer in the fridge. Plus, for the most part, junk food is cheaper and has a longer shelf life. <br />
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In an effort to make grabbing a healthy snack easier, I've started keeping a bowl of fruit on the counter or kitchen table. This also helps me to remember that we have fruit that needs to be eaten. We have an older fridge with dark drawers, so once we put our produce in there, it's out of sight out of mind! <br />
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Also, for me, I like to eat with my eyes. Meaning appearance is a big deal for me when it comes to food. I love fancy packaging when shopping for food and plating my food nicely when it's time to sit down to a meal. So, to make my fruit appealing to me, I pile it up nicely in one of my vintage milk glass bowls or in one of my favorite chippy enamelware bowls. <br />
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Where I live, I'm surrounded by little towns that set up farmers' markets during the summer weekends. Fresh, local fruits and veggies can often be found for a very good deal. Plus, we have a very large produce store nearby that has very low prices! <br />
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This week, I picked up a bag of very cute and equally delicious clementines or maybe they are mandarin oranges (? the bag wasn't labeled). They are soooo tiny and very sweet! Plus, they were very cheap! I found them on the discounted produce rack at the grocery store for $1.49 for 18 of these sweet, little snacks! <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-40588081931217500552017-02-14T00:01:00.000-05:002017-02-14T00:01:06.077-05:00Happy Valentine's Day! 2017In the past, I was never one to really get excited over Valentine's Day. Mainly because the entire time that Joe and I were dating, I worked at a flower shop. Years of helping others celebrate the holiday was enough for me. <br />
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Besides, one year, Joe and I did attempt to celebrate Valentine's Day. February 14 fell on a weekend (a Friday, I think) and as usual, I worked long shifts leading up to the day. I also worked the day after, but a shorter day than the rest of the week, so we decided to celebrate a day late. Joe picked me up from work and we went out for an early dinner. I'm not sure if the restaurant was short-staffed or not, but it took a really long time for our food to come to the table. After chatting about our week for a bit, I started to get really tired and by the time our food came out, I was having a tough time staying awake! <br />
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We realized then, that celebrating Valentine's Day with a date wasn't really an option for us! So, in the years to follow, we just had a low-key dinner at home. Sometimes we ordered take-out, sometimes Joe cooked, sometimes we just had leftovers. Even after I stopped working at the flower shop, we really didn't make a big deal over the holiday. Joe shows me every day how much he loves us and is committed to our family, I don't need one specific day to know how he loves us. <br />
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When Grace was about a year old, I think is when we started celebrating Valentine's day with her. She doesn't eat chocolate, so Valentine's Day for her meant pink and red cupcakes and a cute stuffed animal, a few decorations around the house and all of her shows having a Valentine theme for the day. <br />
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Then school started and we were celebrating Valentine's Day in a bigger way! Special Valentine t-shirts, dresses with hearts, parties at school and Valentine cards with candy for the class! How exciting! <br />
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For the past couple of years, I wanted to do personalized photo Valentines but never got around to taking a picture in order to create the cards. So, when I saw that my friend Kristen (who also happens to be a photographer) was offering an amazing deal on a quick Valentine photo session, I knew I wanted to book a session!<br />
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Here's the card I designed for Grace's classmates: <br />
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Since our family is obsessed with all things Boston Terrier, we were super excited to find this awesome Valentine t-shirt at Walmart! It was the last one and a size too big, but that's okay! She'll be able to wear it again next year! <br />
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Speaking of being Boston Terrier obsessed, Grace wanted to include our Boston Terrier in the photo session! Kristen is a great friend. She adores Grace and also knows how much we love our dog, Remmy! So she included Remmy in the next shot! <br />
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Look at that face! Isn't it the cutest?! Oh, yeah! The kid is cute, too! <br />
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Local readers, if you are looking for a professional photographer at an affordable price, check out <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KDW-Photography-Designs-496381653723736/" target="_blank">KDW Photography & Designs</a>. Here's another photo session of Grace taken by KDW Photography & Designs. <br />
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Disclaimer: I was not compensated in any way for sharing the link above. <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-19507588917763110742017-02-13T00:01:00.000-05:002017-02-13T00:01:07.218-05:00Menu Plan Monday 2017 ~ Week of February 13th<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>Monday </b><br />
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<b>Breakfast for Dinner</b><br />
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Eggs are on sale at Aldi this week, which means I'll be buying a few dozen. <br />
It also means that I'll be eating eggs at least once a day<br />
(most likely for breakfast or lunch) for the next week or two. <br />
I seem to do better on my diet when I eat eggs for a meal or two each day,<br />
so it's a win-win situation. Budget friendly and calorie friendly! <br />
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<b>Tuesday </b><br />
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<b>Valentine's Day </b><br />
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I wish I could say that we are planning a meal of heart-shaped foods<br />
to impress our cute, 7 year old Valentine, but she's super picky. <br />
While I'm sure she'd get a kick out of seeing a heart-shaped pizza<br />
or red pancakes, I know she won't eat them.<br />
So, at the moment, Valentine's Day dinner is undecided. </div>
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<b>Wednesday</b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2014/11/slow-cooker-chicken-corn-chowder-with.html" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder with Bacon</a></b><br />
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Wednesdays are hectic in our house,<br />
so it will be great to come home to this soup ready to eat<br />
at the end of our work day. </div>
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<b>Thursday</b><br />
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<b><a href="https://www.budgetbytes.com/2012/02/hearty-black-bean-quesadillas/" target="_blank">Hearty Black Bean Quesadillas</a></b><br />
<b>Roasted Red Pepper Soup</b><br />
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Click the link to see the picture of these amazing Black Bean Quesadillas! <br />
I really cannot wait to try this recipe! </div>
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<b>Friday</b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2014/07/simply-filling-tuna-vegetable-pasta.html" target="_blank">Simply Filling Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad</a></b><br />
Leftover Soup</div>
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<b>Saturday and Sunday</b></div>
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<b>This is a busy weekend for us, </b><br />
<b>so dinners haven't been planned out yet. </b><br />
<b>Although take-out is usually the direction we go on busy weekends, </b><br />
<b>I'd like to try to keep away from the drive-thru. </b><br />
<b>Grilled cheese sandwiches or even some eggs </b><br />
<b>could make for a quick dinner for these busy days. </b></div>
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Now that you know what we're eating this week, let
us know in the comments what's for dinner at your house this week! Or, if you
<span style="background-color: white;">need more menu planning inspiration,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> you can
check out </span><a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/search/label/Menu%20Plan%20Monday" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc3300;">my past menu plans</span></a><span style="background-color: white;">.</span></div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-38130746835217178032017-02-09T00:01:00.000-05:002017-02-10T01:20:07.127-05:00Dollar Store DIY ~ Boston Terrier Valentine Mail BoxEver since Gracie started school, I was excited to help her make a Valentine Box for her classmates to drop in their cute little Valentine cards. I didn't realize that her classes didn't make Valentine boxes for Kindergarten or First Grade. I was bummed.<br />
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I cannot even begin to describe how happy I was that Grace and I could work on designing a Valentine Box for her to take in to her 2nd grade classroom. <br />
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One afternoon, last week, Grace and I sat down and browsed Pinterest for some cute Valentine Box ideas. We saw lots of creative boxes and Grace decided she wanted us to create a Boston Terrier Valentine Box. Since, you know, we're obsessed with Boston Terriers. <br />
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I'll admit, I was really proud that Gracie chose our favorite breed as the theme, but I was a bit nervous about designing a Boston Terrier Valentine box. I really didn't have any idea on how I was going to go about putting <i>that</i> together. <br />
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We started by choosing a box that fit into the size specifications given by her teacher. After that, the only idea I had was to cover the box with wrapping paper. I figured either black or white paper would work. <br />
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I stopped at Dollar Tree to see if they had plain white or black paper and I was thrilled when I saw a super-glittery Boston Terrier gift bag! I suspected it might be the perfect size to cover her box, so I grabbed three! Just in case we messed up and needed a spare! <br />
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So after gathering our supplies, Grace and I got to work on assembling her box. <br />
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<ul>
<li>empty box</li>
<li>wrapping paper</li>
<li>card stock</li>
<li>Boston Terrier gift bag</li>
<li>marker</li>
<li>glue stick</li>
<li>clear tape</li>
<li>glitter tape</li>
<li>paper doilies </li>
<li>stickers</li>
<li>scissors</li>
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We were both very pleased with how it turned out. The only thing we didn't do, was make a trap door for removing her Valentines either at her social at school or after she comes home. We did make the slot a bit on the big side, so Grace should be able to slip her hand inside and get her cards out. I'll have to remind her to reach in carefully so not to ruin the box, since I have a feeling she will want to add this to our Valentine decor for years to come! </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NYffWf1JZvQ/WJyFT7iBFtI/AAAAAAAAGMo/Z6bEjJZChUEeGT2pSBPzmv6w682BmLqIgCLcB/s1600/BTValE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NYffWf1JZvQ/WJyFT7iBFtI/AAAAAAAAGMo/Z6bEjJZChUEeGT2pSBPzmv6w682BmLqIgCLcB/s640/BTValE.jpg" width="548" /></a></div>
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I'm participating in these link parties: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://tryit-likeit.com/entries/link-party/creatively-crafty-link-party-53" target="_blank">Creatively Crafty Link Party #53</a></li>
<li><a href="https://joyfulhomemaking.com/2017/02/think-tank-thursday-222.html" target="_blank">Think Tank Thursday #222</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.makeoversandmotherhood.com/valentines-day-kid-crafts-activities-link-up/" target="_blank">Valentine's Day Kid Crafts & Activities</a></li>
<li><a href="http://easypeasypleasy.com/2017/02/09/easy-valentine-treats/#more-3382" target="_blank">Funtastic Friday Link Party</a></li>
</ul>
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<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-49276871014319295212017-02-08T00:00:00.000-05:002017-02-08T00:00:07.099-05:00Wordless Wednesday ~ A Date with DaddySince Joe works a lot of weekends, Grace and I tend to have a lot of Mommy-Grace Dates. When Joe is off on the weekends, we tend to do things as a family. Rarely, do the two of them get to spend time together, one on one. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iabE5Jz9hfY/WJqfonoXMgI/AAAAAAAAGLg/htalM_9e0iE9cocuX-iwtkjK-WDEVGEXQCLcB/s1600/HeAndMe2017ablog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iabE5Jz9hfY/WJqfonoXMgI/AAAAAAAAGLg/htalM_9e0iE9cocuX-iwtkjK-WDEVGEXQCLcB/s640/HeAndMe2017ablog.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Girl Scouts hosted a He and Me Dance over the weekend, so this was the perfect opportunity for the two of them to have a Daddy-Grace Date. Time together without Mommy getting in the way! <br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-17407188212494441892017-02-06T22:34:00.002-05:002017-02-10T01:20:46.520-05:00Dollar Store DIY ~ Kid's Valentine DoorI'm sure you've all seen this idea done before. It's been all over Facebook and Pinterest for a while now. I came across the idea several weeks ago and completely forgot about it, so I was glad when Grace's aunt sent me this link: <a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/heart-attack/" target="_blank">Valentine Heart Attack</a> by Skip to My Lou. <br />
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Right away, I loved the idea of posting little love notes on Grace's door telling her all the reasons that we love her. Just like Cindy at Skip to My Lou, suggests, I planned on taping a new heart to Grace's door each day from February 1st until Valentine's Day. <br />
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So, when I spotted these great, heart-shaped doilies at Dollar Tree I knew they would be perfect for the little, positive, love notes for Grace to wake up to every day! What's even better is that they are only a dollar for a pack of 30. One package would have been plenty, but I knew that Gracie would like the combination of pink and red. Plus, for the price, the leftovers will be a great addition to the craft supplies stash! <br />
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I grabbed a piece of pink card stock from my craft supplies, attached a doily to it with some tape and wrote "We love you because..." with a black marker. Then I taped it to her door. The best placement ended up being over a Princess decal that was already stuck to her door. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UKhfLAe9DQY/WJk5xHHLGnI/AAAAAAAAGLE/3sh0lVAiUA4tOhVMK8yLfLmj14wlHo6jACLcB/s1600/kidvalentinedoor2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UKhfLAe9DQY/WJk5xHHLGnI/AAAAAAAAGLE/3sh0lVAiUA4tOhVMK8yLfLmj14wlHo6jACLcB/s640/kidvalentinedoor2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After that was done, it was time to start adding a new heart each night after bedtime. <br />
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(don't mind the stickers that Grace has started adding to her door as well)<br />
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Since we still have some time until Valentine's Day, this is still a work in progress. I'll come back and add another photo or two as we add more hearts to her door! <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W32vJBmZDOI/WJk9jBo8slI/AAAAAAAAGLQ/n8Ui6K-O-WsykU9A5Y_bCu3LvHcQBy_sgCLcB/s1600/kidsvalentinedoor3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W32vJBmZDOI/WJk9jBo8slI/AAAAAAAAGLQ/n8Ui6K-O-WsykU9A5Y_bCu3LvHcQBy_sgCLcB/s640/kidsvalentinedoor3.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
Grace loves waking up to see her new love note attached to her door each morning. I love that this is such an inexpensive and easy way to make her feel special and surprised.<br />
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What better way is there to start the day than to be reminded that you are loved? <br />
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You can find this post linked at these linky parties: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://teachingwhatisgood.com/teaching-good-link-196/" target="_blank">Teaching What is Good</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/tutorials/tutorials-tips-link-party-291.html" target="_blank">Tutorials & Tips Link Party</a></li>
<li><a href="http://lindaslunacy.com/2017/02/making-a-home-homemaking-linky-253/" target="_blank">Making a Home</a></li>
<li><a href="https://joyfulhomemaking.com/2017/02/think-tank-thursday-222.html" target="_blank">Think Tank Thursday #222</a></li>
<li><a href="http://tryit-likeit.com/entries/link-party/creatively-crafty-link-party-53" target="_blank">Creatively Crafty Link Party #53</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.makeoversandmotherhood.com/valentines-day-kid-crafts-activities-link-up/" target="_blank">Valentine's Day Kid Craft & Activities</a></li>
<li><a href="http://easypeasypleasy.com/2017/02/09/easy-valentine-treats/#more-3382" target="_blank">Funtastic Friday Link Party</a></li>
</ul>
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<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-12968061073675292102017-01-02T15:08:00.000-05:002017-01-02T15:08:14.857-05:00Week of January 1st ~ Meal Planning 2017Happy New Year, my friends! <br />
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I don't know about you, but I am incredibly excited to begin this new year and try to keep looking toward the positive rather than dwell on the negative. I guess you can say that is my biggest resolution for the year, among several others! <br />
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Meal Planning is something that I plan to use to get myself organized this year. (Yes, another resolution!) It's a tool I've used successfully in the past and really need to get into the habit again. Not only does meal planning help keep me organized, it also helps us financially. When I have a plan set for the week, we deal with less waste and don't end up relying on take out as often. I'll share more updates on how meal planning works for us in future posts. For now, I'll just get to sharing our meal plan for the week. <br />
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<b>Sunday </b> ~ Birthday Celebration with friends. <br />
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<b>Monday</b> ~ <a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2013/01/crock-pot-potato-ham-chowder.html" target="_blank">Crock Pot Potato and Ham Chowder</a> I love this recipe for using up holiday leftovers! A few slices of spiral ham and some veggies leftover from party trays go a long way in this hearty soup! <br />
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<b>Tuesday </b>~ Venison Fajitas. I'm <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/mexican-steak-fajitas" target="_blank">using this recipe</a> and using venison steak instead of beef. This meal is a great way to get in your veggie servings. <br />
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<b>Wednesday </b>~ Leftover Night. This is the busiest night of the week for us, so we'll be fending for ourselves for dinner. This is a great way to use up smaller portions of leftovers in the fridge. <br />
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<b>Thursday </b>~ Pasta with Vegetables. I have a lot of vegetables in the fridge to use up. Spinach, carrots, peppers, etc. I'll cook them in a little garlic and olive oil and toss with some pasta.<br />
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<b>Friday</b> ~ Kielbasa Sandwiches. We were gifted with some Kielbasa after Grace's aunt visited Philly for the day. This will be a real treat for dinner and I'll have to come up with something light to serve on the side. Maybe just a garden salad for me and some potato salad for Joe. <br />
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<b>Saturday</b> ~ I'm sure this will be another leftover night for us. This would be a night that I'd want to get take-out, but I'm really determined to cut back on take-out and fast food. <br />
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Sorry for the lack of photos in this post...I may come back and edit later to add them in. I'm just a bit behind schedule today and really wanted to get this plan posted!<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-43939841841221193812016-12-20T22:13:00.002-05:002016-12-28T01:11:38.737-05:00Tips for Keeping your Dog Safe during the HolidaysYou might know that our dog, Remmy, is not just a pet. She is a member of the family. We're always sure to give her a pat on her side or a kiss on her head before we leave the house for the day. Just like Remmy is sure to greet us with a wiggle and a kiss when we return home. <br />
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Just like any family member, we want to keep Remmy safe. Since the holidays can bring out curiosity in even the most well-behaved pup, <a href="http://www.puppyspot.com/" target="_blank">PuppySpot</a> has provided a Holiday Dog Safety Checklist to help keep our furry family member safe during the holiday season! <br />
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DY5Cfm4LKAg/WFnuIAwsdAI/AAAAAAAAGKg/isiwOENRWlIcBnVC0sBfjGV4FncDeSomACLcB/s640/PuppySpot.com%2BHoliday%2BSafety.jpg" width="368" /></div>
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If you are looking for a pup, or just like looking at pups (like I do), you can check out these links: </div>
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<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.puppyspot.com%2Fpuppies-for-sale%2F%3Fpage%3D1&h=mAQHZkIvy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Puppies for sale</a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.puppyspot.com/promise" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">No Puppy Mill Promise</a></div>
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Disclosure: </div>
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I was not compensated in any way for sharing this info-graphic. As a dog-lover, I felt that this helpful information was a good fit for my readers. Thank you <a href="http://puppyspot.com/">PuppySpot.com</a> for providing this great reminder of the dangers the holidays can bring for our furry friends. </div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-83151357804426785842016-10-19T00:01:00.000-04:002016-10-19T00:01:07.140-04:00Wordless Wednesday ~ A Girl and Her DogI can't remember what I was doing when I spotted my two girls just staring into each other's faces. <br />
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I do remember I was thankful to have my phone handy to capture the moment. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxIsfOChfIQ/WAQ4cEJ-GLI/AAAAAAAAGJ4/rCPuOseyF5ImgmEV12AaihoJGRZvGw2IQCLcB/s1600/GandR2016b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxIsfOChfIQ/WAQ4cEJ-GLI/AAAAAAAAGJ4/rCPuOseyF5ImgmEV12AaihoJGRZvGw2IQCLcB/s400/GandR2016b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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They adore each other. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl25eC886IU/WAQ4mJLhrFI/AAAAAAAAGJ8/4Sv8pjGBZJAev6KUGgwVRnTZIrSASqoKQCLcB/s1600/GandRc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl25eC886IU/WAQ4mJLhrFI/AAAAAAAAGJ8/4Sv8pjGBZJAev6KUGgwVRnTZIrSASqoKQCLcB/s400/GandRc.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A girl and her dog....such a wonderful thing! <br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-90847331710135773222016-10-17T00:01:00.000-04:002016-10-17T00:01:03.395-04:00Menu Plan Monday ~ Week of October 17th <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello, friends! <br />
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I have been having trouble finding the time to sit down at my desk to blog. School has started and I'm back to work. I thought once we were getting into more of a routine, that things would be a little less hectic around here, but truthfully, we've been running around so crazy between work, school, play dates, Girl Scouts, etc. that we just haven't been home. When we are home, the time has been spent walking the dog, working on homework, bedtime routines. At night, when I do finally have a chance to sit down and relax, I'm usually dozing off on the couch only to have the dog wake me up barking in my face. Usually because she is hungry, needs to go out, wants a treat, or simply because she wants my spot of the couch. <br />
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It's been a rough several weeks. Especially when it comes to meal time. We've been grabbing too much take-out, whipping up quick boxed meals, or simply grabbing a bowl of cereal when out of time or ideas. <br />
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This week, I have a few days off of work. I'm determined to take advantage of the time and prepare some decent food for us! I might even prepare a couple of bigger meals and freeze leftovers for busy nights.<br />
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Here are a few things we'll be eating this week: <br />
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<a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2013/06/crock-pot-recipe-spicy-chipotle-pot.html" target="_blank"><br /></a>
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<a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2013/06/crock-pot-recipe-spicy-chipotle-pot.html" target="_blank">Spicy Chipotle Pot Roast </a></div>
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with mashed potatoes, corn</div>
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Giant has Eye Roast on sale this week. </div>
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Joe took my car to get gas and I had him pick up a nice 2 1/2 lb roast. </div>
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Perfect for this simple crock pot recipe! </div>
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<a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2011/06/simply-tomato-sauce.html" target="_blank">Spaghetti with a Simple Tomato Sauce</a> </div>
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Garden Salad, Crusty Bread</div>
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Such a pantry-friendly meal, I don't know why I don't </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
prepare this more often! </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pf3YtCwSUlI/WAQwsgZKD-I/AAAAAAAAGJY/UM-SyDX-qOQ6ySW5D5SKU4hXYzzxLrqfQCEw/s1600/easybeefbarleysoup%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pf3YtCwSUlI/WAQwsgZKD-I/AAAAAAAAGJY/UM-SyDX-qOQ6ySW5D5SKU4hXYzzxLrqfQCEw/s400/easybeefbarleysoup%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2013/10/easy-beef-barley-soup.html" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2013/10/easy-beef-barley-soup.html" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2013/10/easy-beef-barley-soup.html" target="_blank">Easy Beef Barley Soup</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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I love using the leftover Spicy Chipotle Pot Roast </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for this tasty soup recipe. </div>
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Those are just a few of the things we'll be eating this week. I will also plan for some quick Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Soup and side salads. BLTs will be a hit as well for a really simple, quick meal for one of our busier nights this week. </div>
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I'd love to hear some of your favorite go-to meals for when you have a million things to do after school or work! Please share in the comments! </div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-47540454382751393312016-09-21T00:01:00.000-04:002016-09-21T00:01:05.399-04:00Bostons, Scooters, & Unicorns ~ Wordless WednesdayNow that school is back in session, we've noticed the evenings getting both shorter and slightly cooler. The temps have been cool enough that the dog and I can actually walk and not feel like we're going to pass out! <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4c459_69qVs/V9ziqUgDmII/AAAAAAAAGI8/_heBcnR1fJopXowoAHPsPnxQUuOX90TMQCLcB/s1600/blogWWscooter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4c459_69qVs/V9ziqUgDmII/AAAAAAAAGI8/_heBcnR1fJopXowoAHPsPnxQUuOX90TMQCLcB/s640/blogWWscooter.jpg" width="484" /></a></div>
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One night a couple of weeks ago, I decided to take my girls to the park. I needed some exercise, Remmy needed a walk and Gracie really needed to burn off some energy. Walking gets boring for Gracie, so as a surprise, I packed up her scooter and helmet. Isn't that unicorn helmet fabulous? I wish they had stuff like that when I was a kid! <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hbhC7iHvQrs/V9zi03DLezI/AAAAAAAAGJA/J2SwDaPnX_olVva2PEJDLNRaHqkBFjFSACLcB/s1600/blogWWremmy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hbhC7iHvQrs/V9zi03DLezI/AAAAAAAAGJA/J2SwDaPnX_olVva2PEJDLNRaHqkBFjFSACLcB/s640/blogWWremmy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
About 3/4 of the way around the park, Remmy needed a break. Just enough heat to make her need a short break. Either that or she was enjoying the soccer game that was going on in the field! <br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-63638118331819738582016-09-08T00:01:00.000-04:002016-09-09T21:10:43.874-04:00Thrifty Thursday ~ Mason Jar Thrift Store FindA couple of weeks ago, Grace's aunt and I took her to the movies to the most adorable, little movie theater a few towns over. <br />
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On the way home, we decided to pop in and browse at a little thrift shop. I'm so glad we did!<br />
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I scored this unopened case of jelly jars for super cheap! The price sticker was marked at $5, but the shop was having a 20% off sale that day on everything in the store! <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TAXGJBZFGas/V9DNqljjJfI/AAAAAAAAGIk/_3rFqChC-eIaaUI4AKC_dpBrkTfYA6HjQCLcB/s1600/blogThriftyCanning1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TAXGJBZFGas/V9DNqljjJfI/AAAAAAAAGIk/_3rFqChC-eIaaUI4AKC_dpBrkTfYA6HjQCLcB/s400/blogThriftyCanning1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
The box was a little damaged. <br />
A dent here and some water damage there, so I almost passed them up.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3I6qliVqx8/V9DNqgdnwOI/AAAAAAAAGIg/uyGS6KYaHv43DYaWPo0FMr_ObOdXf4C_wCEw/s1600/blogThriftyCanning2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3I6qliVqx8/V9DNqgdnwOI/AAAAAAAAGIg/uyGS6KYaHv43DYaWPo0FMr_ObOdXf4C_wCEw/s400/blogThriftyCanning2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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But seeing how inexpensive they were, I figured if there were a few broken jars in there, I'd still work out to be a deal for the remaining jars. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OAHySDq6tGI/V9DOEhORgKI/AAAAAAAAGIo/oL3c4a-CLUEZQIczLcKcpNDsAeaYJPfmQCLcB/s1600/blogThriftyCanning3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OAHySDq6tGI/V9DOEhORgKI/AAAAAAAAGIo/oL3c4a-CLUEZQIczLcKcpNDsAeaYJPfmQCLcB/s400/blogThriftyCanning3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So for $4 and some change for sales tax, I really couldn't leave them there. Could I? <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b0roEzmwQTc/V9DNqprPmJI/AAAAAAAAGIc/U6BmQ1FdsOA6_OdWkBeqk1ldPp_Qr52iQCEw/s1600/blogThriftyCanning4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b0roEzmwQTc/V9DNqprPmJI/AAAAAAAAGIc/U6BmQ1FdsOA6_OdWkBeqk1ldPp_Qr52iQCEw/s400/blogThriftyCanning4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the end, it turned out that all the jars and lids were in perfect condition! <br />
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Now, don't get too excited...I have not taken up making my own jelly and jams. At least not yet. <br />
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I might - and I mean a very slight might - attempt some homemade apple sauce when we pick apples this year. <br />
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Most likely, I will use them for storing bulk spices or small leftover portions. <br />
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<br />
Sharing at the following link parties: <br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.dagmarbleasdale.com/2016/09/give-thanks-sign/#more-26135" target="_blank">Thrifty & Vintage Finds Link Party #133</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-27750924968247396042016-09-07T00:01:00.000-04:002016-09-10T01:03:13.789-04:00Back To School 2016 ~ Wordless WednesdayI know this is supposed to be a "wordless" post, but I after a two year silence here Under the Big Oak Tree, I'm not feeling like I want to be wordless anymore! <br />
<br />
Those that followed my blog in the past will be shocked to see how much Grace has grown since I've posted last. Here's one of the<a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2014/07/wordless-wednesday-pretty-little.html" target="_blank"> last posts where I featured a photo of Grace</a>, to give you an idea of how much she's grown! I'll fill in the blanks a bit as I get into posting more often, but for now, I'd like to share some photos from Back to School. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6u--B1eysBw/V88S_xQDviI/AAAAAAAAGIE/VT4821rrcKsXoqHDB2bK_G9pFD7qg971ACLcB/s1600/blogphotoB2S1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6u--B1eysBw/V88S_xQDviI/AAAAAAAAGIE/VT4821rrcKsXoqHDB2bK_G9pFD7qg971ACLcB/s640/blogphotoB2S1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbH387_Fll8/V88TDEofazI/AAAAAAAAGII/bG-_BnGSpN8y8x91BEE42I0K3vh0FlUGgCLcB/s1600/blogphotoB2S2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbH387_Fll8/V88TDEofazI/AAAAAAAAGII/bG-_BnGSpN8y8x91BEE42I0K3vh0FlUGgCLcB/s640/blogphotoB2S2.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njPOHzD-40w/V88TJHz6yAI/AAAAAAAAGIM/bd2t3eoCNAQOf9_GUmdhGp68xFfHAJDxQCLcB/s1600/blogphotoB2S3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njPOHzD-40w/V88TJHz6yAI/AAAAAAAAGIM/bd2t3eoCNAQOf9_GUmdhGp68xFfHAJDxQCLcB/s640/blogphotoB2S3.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Although, the photos above have an Under the Big Oak Tree watermark, I cannot take credit for these fabulous photos. These wonderful images of Grace are used with permission from Kristen of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KDW_Photography-496381653723736/?fref=ts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">KDW Photography</a>, a local photographer and dear friend. <br />
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<br />
Where I'm linking up: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2016/09/97-outdoor-wednesday-400.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Outdoor Wednesday</a> over at <a href="http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Southern Daydreamer</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bethere2day.com/wwoat-the-plumber/" target="_blank">WW on a Tuesday</a></li>
<li><a href="http://mixedreviewsblog.com/index.php/2016/09/07/mixed-reviews-blog-wordless-wednesday-wlinky/" target="_blank">Mixed Reviews Wordless Wednesday</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.piercedwonderings.com/photo-friday-saturday-afternoon-drive/" target="_blank">Photo Friday</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-14992220709239375902016-09-06T09:48:00.001-04:002016-09-07T09:04:40.588-04:00I'm Back...with a Menu Plan! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qEv8a11E3s/UI4kpuF41jI/AAAAAAAADGs/Kxy2PxI3mXo4wLjmLfma7Cwkzu2t2ja2ACPcB/s1600/0menuplanmondayUTBOT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qEv8a11E3s/UI4kpuF41jI/AAAAAAAADGs/Kxy2PxI3mXo4wLjmLfma7Cwkzu2t2ja2ACPcB/s320/0menuplanmondayUTBOT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hello, friends! <br />
<br />
Have you missed me? I know it's been a long time since I've last posted. Probably about two years. In that time, Gracie has gone through Kindergarten and First Grade and we are currently starting our second week of Second Grade. OH MY! Did I just say that? SECOND GRADE??? Wow! <br />
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Another new development since I've last been here, is I started working. I found myself the most perfect (for me) part-time job, with a great boss and fabulous hours! I'm sure I will share more about that in another post. Yes, I plan on posting regularly again. Mainly, because this blog helped keep me on my toes and I've realized that my life became a mess without the blog. <br />
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So, I'm back....and what better way to kick off being back than with a Menu Plan! <br />
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<b><u>Monday</u></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Dinner with Friends</b><br />
<br />
We celebrated Labor Day with friends. <br />
I picked up some yummy desserts<br />
on the way to their house<br />
for a BBQ.<br />
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<b><u>Tuesday</u></b><br />
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<b>Grilled Chicken, mashed potatoes, vegetable</b><br />
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Grilled chicken is one of our favorite go-to foods. <br />
Joe usually grills a big, family pack of chicken breasts<br />
in the beginning of the week.<br />
Leftovers serve up easily on days when meals<br />
don't always go as planned. </div>
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<u><b>Wednesday</b></u></div>
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<b>Chili over rice</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
It's been a while since we've had chili. <br />
I don't even remember if I made it at all last winter.<br />
I've decided this week, I'll try a <a href="http://www.pipandebby.com/pip-ebby/2014/2/15/the-best-chili-on-earth.html" target="_blank">new recipe</a><br />
found via Pinterest. <br />
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<b><u>Thursday </u></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Fend For Yourself Night</b></div>
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I'm going to the gym tonight. </div>
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No, I'm not bragging. </div>
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Just putting it here in writing to keep me accountable. </div>
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I'll most likely grab some of the leftover grilled chicken.</div>
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On nights like this, Joe will usually make an omelet </div>
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or a bowl of oatmeal. </div>
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<b><u>Friday</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1MV9lL0zx7o/V87Gc4bavsI/AAAAAAAAGGM/tbDxMnOQ0GU-FvwGx4uLCmX68PMuyZGdgCLcB/s1600/PorcupineMeatballs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1MV9lL0zx7o/V87Gc4bavsI/AAAAAAAAGGM/tbDxMnOQ0GU-FvwGx4uLCmX68PMuyZGdgCLcB/s400/PorcupineMeatballs1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2012/02/porcupine-meatballs.html" target="_blank"><br /></a></u></b>
<b><u><a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2012/02/porcupine-meatballs.html" target="_blank">Porcupine Meatballs </a></u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
This is a recipe we enjoy,<br />
but not one I use very often. <br />
Maybe because it's not really a<br />
quick-cooking meal.<br />
The flavors of this dish,<br />
make the one hour simmering time<br />
so very worth it! <br />
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<br />
<b><u>Saturday</u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Leftover Night</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Chili dogs are on the menu for tonight. <br />
Quick and easy, perfect for fitting into whatever<br />
plans we have for a busy weekend! <br />
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<br />
<b><u>Sunday</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fk05rgvBrQE/V87Ig3p3XcI/AAAAAAAAGGY/zaqcJmS5zvQrb4Zo4TmcF_WWicXGLN_fwCLcB/s1600/easybeefbarleysoup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fk05rgvBrQE/V87Ig3p3XcI/AAAAAAAAGGY/zaqcJmS5zvQrb4Zo4TmcF_WWicXGLN_fwCLcB/s400/easybeefbarleysoup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<b><u><a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2013/10/easy-beef-barley-soup.html" target="_blank">Easy Beef Barley Soup</a></u></b></div>
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As you know, I love soup!<br />
This is one of my favorite recipes!<br />
So simple and delicious! </div>
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Well, that's all for this post! I'll be back soon with more posts, new recipes, and lots of Wordless Wednesday photos! </div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-690294944187854672015-04-23T14:54:00.000-04:002015-04-23T14:54:09.032-04:00Stock Up and Save on your favorite P&G Products at Walmart (Plus a Walmart Gift Card Giveaway)<i>This is a sponsored post. The Walmart Gift Cards and information have been provided by P&G. All opinions in this post are honest and my own. </i><br />
<br />
We love P&G products! As a kid, I remember my Mom buying P&G items and as a mom myself, I am continuing the family loyalty to the brands I grew up using! <br />
<br />
Tide is my absolute favorite P&G product, while Joe's favorite is Bounty. So, when we found out about Walmart's Stock Up and Save event for P&G products (during the month of April), I made sure to stock up on those items. You can never have too much laundry detergent or paper towels, especially with kids in the house! <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHl1Km4cb9g/VTk_BtUgGwI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/ysJY6ddSXRc/s1600/PandG1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHl1Km4cb9g/VTk_BtUgGwI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/ysJY6ddSXRc/s1600/PandG1.jpg" height="460" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
Summer is almost here and soon we'll be spending most of our days outside playing. Grace has a knack for getting dirty anywhere, so I will be thankful that I am stocked up on my favorite laundry detergent to get her clothes their cleanest! <br />
<br />
In addition to picking up my usual Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent in the original scent (love it!), I also grabbed a bottle of Tide Simply Clean & Fresh Liquid Laundry Detergent. It's priced lower than the original, so I figured since it's a brand I trust, it's worth giving a try! <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUpfYPtRE-E/VTk_FKPMBSI/AAAAAAAAGFY/Jq42avD6e_8/s1600/PandG2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUpfYPtRE-E/VTk_FKPMBSI/AAAAAAAAGFY/Jq42avD6e_8/s1600/PandG2.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></a></div>
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As I said, Grace really manages to get dirty and make messes. So, paper towels are always a must-have in our home. I'll admit, in a pinch we've given other paper towels a try. Whether it's been another name brand or just a store brand, but none ever come close to Bounty for getting the job done. Aside from being the best at absorbing messy spills, I love that Bounty has Select-A-Size rolls! No more using full-size sheets for smaller messes!<br />
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As you can see in the photo above, Joe didn't waste any time opening up the package of Bounty! He likes to keep a couple rolls in his truck at all times! <br />
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P&G products available during the Stock Up and Save Event at Walmart are: <br />
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<ul>
<li>Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent </li>
<li>Tide Simply Clean and Fresh Liquid Laundry Detergent</li>
<li>Charmin Ultra Soft or Ultra Strong Toilet Paper </li>
<li>Bounty Mega Roll Select-A-Size Paper Towels</li>
<li>Luvs Super Absorbent Diapers </li>
<li>Pampers Swaddlers Huge Pack</li>
<li>Tampax Pearl Plastic, Super Absorbency</li>
<li>Always Ultra Thin Long Super Unscented Pads</li>
<li>Always Discreet Maximum Underwear</li>
<li>Always Discreet Moderate Regular Length Pads</li>
</ul>
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The nice people at P&G not only provided me with a gift card so that I could stock up on their products, they are also allowing me to give away a $25 Walmart gift card to one lucky reader so that they can purchase some of their favorite P&G products! Isn't that so awesome?! </div>
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Entering is easy using the rafflecopter form below. We just ask that entrants are 18 years or older and a resident of the United States. Giveaway winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be selected. <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333330154419px; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="6302641622" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/6302641622/" id="rcwidget_gdm4ov5e" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-7225913655476612192015-03-31T21:16:00.000-04:002015-03-31T21:16:08.521-04:00BAM, Upper Bucks Spring Bazaar benefiting Morning Star<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBoAV-idczY/VRtGfjy9TeI/AAAAAAAAGE4/1FLt7dbnubY/s1600/spring%2Bbazaar%2Bpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBoAV-idczY/VRtGfjy9TeI/AAAAAAAAGE4/1FLt7dbnubY/s1600/spring%2Bbazaar%2Bpic.jpg" height="327" width="640" /></a></div>
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BA<br />
Today, my friend Emily would like to tell you about a fundraiser she has organized locally. <br />
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Emily writes:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
While attending a local farmer's market this summer, I had the pleasure of meeting many new neighbors and small businesses in the local community. One family we met, we learned was involved with a local charity that struck our hearts. They invited us to a banquet benefiting that charity, and I got to learn more about them and what they do. That local charity is Morning Star, and to see the impact it has made in their lives. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Morning Star offers support, help and education to young mothers facing a crisis pregnancy. When a young woman comes to them, they offer help with obtaining medical care, parenting classes, life skills classes, education, job assistance and housing assistance when they are ready to leave the home. They not only make sure the mothers are taken care of during the pregnancy, but are prepared for their life after the babies arrive, so they can expect a hopeful future. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I was moved to try to do something to help the maternity home, and as my major skill sets revolve around event planning, I committed to help plan a fundraiser for Morning Star. I also happen to be the co-admin of "Businesswomen and Mompreneurs (BAM), Upper Bucks", a local networking group for Moms. We chose Morning Start as the beneficiary of our first annual Spring Bazaar. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
We are planning a fun, family-friendly event, complete with vendors, raffles, food, games, crafts and entertainment. There will be balloon animals, face painting, character costumes, a fun phot booth, chair massage and more! </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
We will be hosting the Spring Bazaar on </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Saturday, April 18, 2015, from 2:00 to 7:00pm, at the Highland Park Camp Meeting Dining Hall, at 415 Highland Park Road, Sellersville, PA 18960</blockquote>
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You can find more information about the event at: <a href="http://springbazaar.webs.com/" target="_blank">Morning Star Fundraising Event</a><br />
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Emily has offered our readers a free raffle ticket...just print the photo below: <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ovK2ktkF70/VRtGR9O-pwI/AAAAAAAAGEw/lR0kmdvyp5c/s1600/1%2BFree%2BRaffle%2BTicket%2BSB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ovK2ktkF70/VRtGR9O-pwI/AAAAAAAAGEw/lR0kmdvyp5c/s1600/1%2BFree%2BRaffle%2BTicket%2BSB.jpg" height="238" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-55947502694445838602015-02-25T16:15:00.000-05:002015-02-25T16:15:20.564-05:00#ReliefIsHere Vick's DayQuil and NyQuil Severe Combo Packs Get You Through Cold & Flu SeasonDisclosure: This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks/P&G.<br />
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Every year, during the holidays, Grace and I tend to get sick. We visit family, someone sneezes, and that's it! We're sick for the rest of the holiday season. It never fails. <br />
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I knew when Grace started school this year that she would start bringing home all sorts of germs and sicknesses, I just wasn't aware that it would be so often! So far, she and the rest of our household have been sick enough times for her to miss 6 days of school from September through February. Add in the weekends and holiday breaks that we've been feeling under the weather and that's a lot of sick days! In a conversation with a friend, we determined that sharing germs is the main lesson taught to our 5 and 6 year olds in Kindergarten! <br />
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Thanks to SheSpeaks along with P&G, we are ready for the next bout of colds & flu with a Vick's DayQuil Severe and NyQuil Severe combo pack! <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ0-UB4G7EE/VO4vDGqoEyI/AAAAAAAAGDk/SvPG1hB2kuA/s1600/NyQuilDayQuilSevere.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ0-UB4G7EE/VO4vDGqoEyI/AAAAAAAAGDk/SvPG1hB2kuA/s1600/NyQuilDayQuilSevere.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't know about you, but when I am sick, I like to be snuggled on the couch with pillows and blankets with a fire going in the fireplace along with a bunch of other necessities to make me more comfortable while recovering:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>hot tea</li>
<li>pulp-free orange juice with lots of ice</li>
<li>old movies</li>
<li>books/magazines </li>
<li>snow cones for a scratchy throat</li>
<li>Vick's VapoRub</li>
<li>tissues</li>
<li>of course, chicken soup and lots of rest</li>
</ul>
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The lots of rest portion of that list isn't always realistic, but luckily, Grace can be somewhat sympathetic to mommy feeling yucky. Especially, if she had just recently dealt with a bug herself. Often, she will snuggle with me or play quietly in her room while I have control of the TV for once! </div>
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In addition to my home remedy list above, Joe and I have always made sure to keep our medicine basket well-stocked with DayQuil and NyQuil products. Joe prefers the liquid form while I always opted for the gel tabs. So, I was excited to be given the opportunity to try this new maximum strength version.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_LeCYMuh_uE/VO4kMgyr-VI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/ZowJp4M8v78/s1600/31140_10_NEW_product.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_LeCYMuh_uE/VO4kMgyr-VI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/ZowJp4M8v78/s1600/31140_10_NEW_product.gif" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Vick's NyQuil Severe and DayQuil Severe are available in both liquid and caplet form and are available in a convenient combo pack containing both the non-drowsy and night time relief dosages for temporary relief of common cold and flu symptoms: <br />
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<ul>
<li>Nasal Congestion</li>
<li>Sinus Congestion and pressure</li>
<li>Cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation</li>
<li>Minor aches and pains</li>
<li>Fever</li>
<li>Headache</li>
<li>Sore throat</li>
<li>Reduces swelling of nasal passages</li>
<li>Temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose</li>
<li>Promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage </li>
</ul>
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Since Vick's NyQuil/DayQuil Severe Cold and Flu Combo Packs are available at Walmart (both online at <a href="http://www.walmart.com/search/?query=vicks%20severe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walmart.com</a> and in the store), it's easy to stock up on all that you need to get you through the rest of the cold and flu season! </div>
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Follow along via social media to learn more about Vick's NyQuil/DayQuil Severe Cold and Flu: </div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Hashtag: <a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=realtime&q=%23ReliefIsHere&src=typd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#ReliefIsHere</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Walmart" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@Walmart</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NyQuil.DayQuil" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NyQuil and DayQuil</a></li>
</ul>
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<!-- Start of DoubleClick Floodlight Tag: Please do not remove Activity name of this tag: SheSpeaks NyQuil URL of the webpage where the tag is expected to be placed: http://shespeaks.com/ This tag must be placed between the <body> and </body> tags, as close as possible to the opening tag. Creation Date: 11/13/2014 --> <script type="text/javascript"> var axel = Math.random() + ""; var a = axel * 10000000000000; document.write('<img src="https://ad.doubleclick.net/activity;src=4501146;type=invmedia;cat=ojquz4uh;ord=' + a + '?" width="1" height="1" alt=""/>'); </script> <noscript> <img src="https://ad.doubleclick.net/activity;src=4501146;type=invmedia;cat=ojquz4uh;ord=1?" width="1" height="1" alt=""/> </noscript> <!-- End of DoubleClick Floodlight Tag: Please do not remove -->Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-58302010329644264722014-11-30T15:33:00.002-05:002014-11-30T15:33:46.190-05:00Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder with BaconChicken Corn Chowder is one of our favorite soups. One that I make several times a year, but usually a different recipe each time. This is at the top of my list at the moment. The flavors are wonderful and the recipe is so easy to prepare using the slow cooker. I threw this together in the morning and let it cook while I did the rest of my chores around the house that day. It was great not having to figure out dinner by the time I was finished my other tasks! <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dZrwZRUVqX0/VHt-RsMIW0I/AAAAAAAAGCk/zDuf11GuyGo/s1600/chickencornchowderslowcooker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dZrwZRUVqX0/VHt-RsMIW0I/AAAAAAAAGCk/zDuf11GuyGo/s1600/chickencornchowderslowcooker.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder with Bacon</b><br />
Adapted from: <a href="http://damndelicious.net/2014/09/12/slow-cooker-potato-corn-chowder/" target="_blank">Damn Delicious</a><br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1-2 lbs red potatoes, diced </li>
<li>1 yellow onion, diced </li>
<li>1 red bell pepper, diced</li>
<li>16 oz. frozen corn</li>
<li>3 Tbs. flour </li>
<li>1 tsp. Thyme </li>
<li>1 tsp. Oregano </li>
<li>1/2 tsp. garlic powder </li>
<li>1/2 tsp. onion powder </li>
<li>1/4 tsp salt </li>
<li>1/2 tsp. pepper </li>
<li>6 cups chicken broth </li>
<li>1/4 cup heavy cream</li>
<li>6 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled </li>
<li>1 cup chicken, cooked and diced</li>
</ul>
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<b>To prepare: </b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Place the potatoes,onion and bell pepper in the crock pot. </li>
<li>Stir in the flour. </li>
<li>Pour in the frozen corn and combine well. </li>
<li>Add seasonings and chicken broth. </li>
<li>Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours. </li>
<li>Stir in the heavy cream, chicken and bacon. Allow to cook for another 15-20 minutes or until heated through. </li>
</ul>
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Yum! So, so good! This soup really hit the spot after a busy day! We'll definitely be having this a few more times this winter! Can't beat easy and delicious! </div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-53548314028906062532014-11-20T13:17:00.000-05:002014-11-20T13:17:28.154-05:00Don't Forget the Duracell ~ Make Your Holiday a Success! #PowerTheHolildays*This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks and Duracell. <br />
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Every year, while I shop for and then wrap all of our holiday gifts not only for Grace but for our many nieces and nephews, it's Joe's job to keep track of the batteries we need for any of the many toys we are gifting for Christmas. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ni9Itg2yLQc/VG4rlKnPsXI/AAAAAAAAGCM/N2b0_AsU1lg/s1600/DuracellCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ni9Itg2yLQc/VG4rlKnPsXI/AAAAAAAAGCM/N2b0_AsU1lg/s1600/DuracellCollage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nothing can ruin a Christmas morning more than having a new toy to play with, but no batteries to power it up! So we are always prepared with a large stock of batteries in assorted sizes to go with each gift. I even pack some extras in my purse when we visit, just in case another gift giver forgets to include batteries with their gifts! <br />
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During the winter months, we use a lot of AA batteries. Between marathon bowling tournaments on the Wii and lots of family movie nights, we always need to be prepared with new batteries! In fact, while normally our battery stash is kept in the garage, along with a smaller stash in a kitchen drawer, I always have a smaller pack of Duracell AA batteries handy in the same basket we use to hold our remote controls! That way we don't have to go searching for the right size in the middle of our bowling match or when snuggled on the sofa watching Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel! <br />
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Right about now, I'm done with hitting the stores for my shopping. It's too cold outside and the parking lots are crazy! I'd rather sit by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa, with a Christmas movie on the TV and my laptop on my lap and shop online! Now, that's my kind of shopping! I'll be adding some batteries to my next online Walmart purchase! <br />
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Here are some shopping links to make it easy for you:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Duracell-Coppertop-AA-Alkaline-Batteries-4-Batteries-Pack/870860" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Duracell AA Batteries, 4 pack</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Duracell-4133392948-Duracell-Coppertop-AA-Batteries-Doublewide-16-Count-Pack/16663048" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Duracell AA Batteries, 16 pack</a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--2PYXeV5gv8/VG4rQwJkDgI/AAAAAAAAGCE/WBqT-hwVhME/s1600/duracellremote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--2PYXeV5gv8/VG4rQwJkDgI/AAAAAAAAGCE/WBqT-hwVhME/s1600/duracellremote.jpg" height="385" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our thermostat also takes a AA battery, so at the start of the winter season, Joe always replaces last year's battery with a new one. Always with Duracell batteries! We also use Duracell Batteries in our smoke detectors, flash lights and in one of my cameras. <br />
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Here are some handy links: <br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="https://twitter.com/@Duracell" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Duracell on Twitter</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/duracell" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Duracell on Facebook </a></li>
<li><a href="https://twitter.com/@Walmart" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walmart on Twitter</a></li>
</ul>
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So, don't forget to check your gifts and get the batteries you need to go along with them! While you're at it, grab an extra pack or two just in case! Power the Holidays with Duracell! <br />
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#PowerTheHolidays<br />
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After completing the review that I shared here for the VTech <a href="http://bit.ly/1u2sl4U" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">InnoTab</a> 3S Plus Learning Tablet, I was contacted by the nice people at VTech to try out the compatible <a href="http://bit.ly/1rAyHYZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Learning Cartridges </a>with the opportunity to share a set with a lucky giveaway winner here on the blog! <br />
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Knowing how much we love VTech products in our home, I had a hunch that our readers would love the chance to win a set of cartridges as well!<br />
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Until reviewing the InnoTab, Grace was very limited in her use of electronics. Occasionally, she'd use our phones to play a game, but aside from that and some Wii Bowling the concept of video games and tablets is pretty new to her. So, I love that VTech has games appropriately geared to her age and learning level. <br />
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Since Grace has started school in August, I have seen how much she is enjoying learning new things. How excited she is to come home and tell me about what she learned that day. I've also noticed that she lacks the desire to learn at home. I've been told more than once that "homework is boring!" Yep, already, homework is a nightmare in our house! <br />
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With the VTech InnoTab and the Learning Cartridges, she is able to learn when she thinks she's just having fun playing a game! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPwSu86Np6M/VG1hyM1yVAI/AAAAAAAAGA8/qrHP4cjf5cM/s1600/InnoTabCart2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPwSu86Np6M/VG1hyM1yVAI/AAAAAAAAGA8/qrHP4cjf5cM/s1600/InnoTabCart2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Before I get to the giveaway portion of this blog post, let me share some information with you about the VTech Learning Cartridges: <br />
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<br />
<ul>
<li>With the VTech Learning Cartridges, parents can extend the play value of their VTech toys. Purchasing the Learning Cartridges will allow the tablet to grow more with your child's abilities. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A range of education cartridges are available, offering age-appropriate games, e-Books and more. These allow kids to learn key subjects such as math, reading and science in steady stages. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Interactive e-Books teach reading and vocabulary, while creative activities and camera fun help to get your kids using their imaginations. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Children can learn as they play with their favorite characters from Winnie the Pooh, Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Monsters University and more! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> The cartridges are compatible with all current InnoTab models and will also work with new models that will be released later this year, including the <a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/ITMax" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">InnoTab MAX</a>, which is VTech's fastest Wi-Fi tablet yet and it's first to feature Android learning content. </li>
</ul>
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We had the chance to try out three VTech Learning Cartridges as shown in the photo above. </div>
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<b><u>InnoTab My First Nursery Rhymes Learning Cartridge </u></b></div>
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(Ages 12-36 months, MSRP: $24.99) </div>
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<ul>
<li>Join Cody and Cora on a musical adventure in My First Nursery Rhymes for VTech's InnoTab Learning Tablets! Listen to nursery rhyme songs, play mini learning games, watch playful animations and learn baby sign language. </li>
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<li>This InnoTab Learning Cartridge includes 25 popular nursery rhymes, mini games, introduces five baby sign language signs and allows you to customize parent settings. </li>
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<li>In lullaby mode, you can set the timer for 15 minutes and play a loop of 5 sleepytime songs to soothe your child to sleep. You can also customize characters and create and avatar that interacts within the songs. </li>
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<b>***Our thoughts:</b> Although this is for younger kids, Grace still wanted to give this cartridge a try. She enjoyed hearing the the nursery rhymes and applauded after each one and sang a long during a few. The games didn't hold her attention for very long, but I can see this being a hit with Grace's one-year old cousin when she comes to visit! I love that parents can set the timer and play a loop of songs! Why just use that timer for bedtime??? Those 15 minutes of music can be a lifesaver when a busy mom needs to distract her little one in the supermarket, car ride, or even so mom can start dinner or run to the bathroom! </div>
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<b><u>InnoTab Disney Winnie the Pooh Learning Cartridge</u></b></div>
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(Ages 12-36 months, MSRP: $24.99) </div>
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<li>Winnie the Pooh is always hungry for honey in Winnie the Pooh for VTech's InnoTab Learning Tablets. Help him find his honeypot and learn shapes, colors, opposites and more along the way. Includes fun songs and baby sign language with Roo and Piglet! </li>
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<li>This InnoTab Learning Cartridge features and e-Book about Pooh and his great day bouncing with Tigger and friends, four sing-along songs with familiar melodies about Winnie the Pooh and friends, and a Music Box plays four sing-along songs in a loop for up to 30 minutes. </li>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BKpcQxqPq8M/VG1xrcIv8LI/AAAAAAAAGBk/RV5I6aDjeco/s1600/InnoTabPooh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BKpcQxqPq8M/VG1xrcIv8LI/AAAAAAAAGBk/RV5I6aDjeco/s1600/InnoTabPooh.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>***Our thoughts: </b> Again, Grace is older than the recommended group for this cartridge, but who can resist Winnie the Pooh? I know he's always been a favorite in our house! Grace enjoyed watching Pooh and his friends get ready for a party picnic and listening to the sing-along songs. Again, this will be a great hit with my niece when she comes to visit! </div>
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<b><u>InnoTab Classic Stories Learning Cartridge </u></b></div>
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(Ages 3-6, MSRP $24.99) </div>
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<li>In Classic Stories for VTech's InnoTab Learning Tablets, children can read three classic stories: The Frog Prince, Pinocchio and The Three Little Pigs, each with three different reading levels. </li>
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<li>This InnoTab Learning Cartridge includes three learning games which introduce writing, rhyming, phonics, reading comprehension and more. </li>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0HgIVYC2ps/VG1roxb2i9I/AAAAAAAAGBM/9ca0zIokbPc/s1600/InnoTabPrincess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0HgIVYC2ps/VG1roxb2i9I/AAAAAAAAGBM/9ca0zIokbPc/s1600/InnoTabPrincess.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GWQ3B-f3CCI/VG1u4OpBrpI/AAAAAAAAGBY/qS1QCL5pH6k/s1600/InnoTabwriting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GWQ3B-f3CCI/VG1u4OpBrpI/AAAAAAAAGBY/qS1QCL5pH6k/s1600/InnoTabwriting.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>***Our thoughts: </b> This was the favorite of the three cartridges as the recommended age group is more appropriate for Grace. So far, her favorite game on this cartridge is "Help the Princess" She is still on level 1 and it seems to be really easy for her, but showing that she knows the answers is really helping build her confidence. Grace's penmanship skills can use some work, so my favorite game is "Writing with Pinocchio" where kids can use a "pencil" to practice writing their letters. <br />
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Now that you've learned a bit about the VTech Learning Cartridges, are you ready to enter for your chance to win a gift pack of your own VTech Learning Cartridges? Of course you are!!! <br />
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<b>Disclosure: </b> The VTech product, gift card, information, and additional gift pack have been provided by VTech. All opinions are honest and my own. <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-37667897012365092272014-11-09T19:50:00.003-05:002014-11-09T19:50:46.247-05:00Ginger Snap Pumpkin SmoothieAt our house, we LOVE Autumn! Bulky sweaters, brisk days, and the sound of leaves crunching under our feet as we walk. Of course, me being a foodie and all, I love all of the yummy fall flavors!<br />
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I'm sure most of you have been hitting your neighborhood coffee shops for your fall drink fix, but I'm not a coffee drinker. When Joe brought home some pumpkin pie flavored yogurt the other day, I knew I just had to turn that into a smoothie! The result? This creamy smoothie is perfect for breakfast or lunch or even as an alternative to pumpkin pie for dessert! <br />
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<b>Ginger Snap Pumpkin Smoothie </b><br />
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<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
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<li>4 oz. container of pumpkin pie yogurt (discard the "pie crust" crumbles)</li>
<li>1/4 cup Plain, fat free Greek Yogurt </li>
<li>1/4 cup skim milk </li>
<li>1 frozen banana, cut into chunks</li>
<li>1/4 cup crushed ginger snap cookies + additional for garnish</li>
<li>5 ice cubes</li>
</ul>
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<b>To prepare:</b> </div>
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<ul>
<li>Combine ingredients in blender pitcher and blend until smooth and creamy. </li>
<li>Pour into glass. </li>
<li>Garnish with crushed ginger snap cookies. </li>
<li>Add a straw and enjoy! </li>
</ul>
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<b>Notes: </b></div>
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<li>I crushed about five smaller sized ginger snaps before making my smoothie. I still had some crushed cookies left after preparing my smoothie. </li>
<li>I crushed the cookies using the same method that I used when I crushed the Whoppers Candy for my <a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2014/11/a-whopper-of-smoothie.html" target="_blank">Whopper of a Smoothie</a>! Alternately, you could probably just toss the whole cookies into the blender with the other ingredients. </li>
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I made this smoothie for myself for breakfast over the weekend and LOVED it! I was having a difficult time concentrating on taking photos of the finished product because I really just wanted to devour it right away! While I sipped this for breakfast, I realized that if I had this instead of pie for dessert, I'd be totally satisfied and not feel as if I was depriving myself of dessert! In fact, I'd even splurge and allow myself a dollop of whipped cream on a special occasion! </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/129/2E3058AB0FD7D4F7F2434B2612E36E6F.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2658145826640130321.post-10218748309011745572014-11-09T00:56:00.000-05:002014-11-09T20:14:12.641-05:00A Whopper of a SmoothieDid you know it's smoothie week? Well, it is over at <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/" target="_blank">Williams-Sonoma</a> and they've asked me to whip up a smoothie using a unique ingredient. <br />
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I'm not sure why, but Whoppers Candy was the first thing that popped into my head. Maybe because I had a huge bowl of Halloween Candy sitting next to me and they were calling my name! <br />
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Regardless of what inspired this delicious dessert smoothie, I was super pleased with the result! This smoothie is a perfect way to add some dairy and fruit to your day while satisfying your sweet tooth at the same time! <br />
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So, go ahead and raid your kids' Halloween candy and get your <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/shop/electrics/blenders/" target="_blank">blenders</a> ready to whip up this yummy, almost-guilt-free treat! <br />
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While Whoppers Candy isn't something totally off-the-wall unusual, it is a bit of a jump from my normally healthy smoothie ingredients. <br />
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You'll want to crush those candies and that's really easy to do! Just pour the candy into a zipper bag. Seal the bag after squeezing out the air. Place the bag of candy into a folded dish towel and crush the candy by whacking it with a meat mallet or rolling pin. Grace had fun helping me with this part of the preparation! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lu4jARkPZ4A/VF74Yn3QjOI/AAAAAAAAGAc/MKuEOjHqtEY/s1600/whoppersmoothie3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lu4jARkPZ4A/VF74Yn3QjOI/AAAAAAAAGAc/MKuEOjHqtEY/s1600/whoppersmoothie3.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Grace and I crushed up a movie theater sized package of Whoppers because I wasn't sure how much I'd need for this smoothie. I love that we have enough to make at least 2 more smoothies! This is great because normally, I'd sit there and just devour the entire box, but by adding some of the crushed candy to healthy smoothie ingredients, I was able to enjoy a sweet treat without feeling too guilty! <br />
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Now that we've gotten past the candy crushing, scroll down for the recipe! <br />
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Enjoy! <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lg5dmVlbZiY/VF74DxBud7I/AAAAAAAAGAE/G42xiabPJN8/s1600/WhopperSmoothie6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lg5dmVlbZiY/VF74DxBud7I/AAAAAAAAGAE/G42xiabPJN8/s1600/WhopperSmoothie6.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>A Whopper of a Smoothie</b><br />
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<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 frozen banana, cut into chunks</li>
<li>1/2 cup plain, fat free Greek yogurt</li>
<li>1/2 cup skim milk </li>
<li>1/4 cup crushed Whoppers Candy </li>
<li>1/2 cup crushed ice</li>
<li>1/2 Tbs. crushed Whoppers Candy for garnish, optional </li>
</ul>
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<b>To Prepare: </b></div>
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<ul>
<li>Add all ingredients (except the 1/2 Tbs of candy used to garnish) to blender pitcher</li>
<li>Blend until creamy. </li>
<li>Pour into a glass. </li>
<li>Garnish with additional Whoppers Candy. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bU3pUDb90JY/VF73-lzgN6I/AAAAAAAAF_8/OvDLp7FwJH8/s1600/WhopperSmoothie4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bU3pUDb90JY/VF73-lzgN6I/AAAAAAAAF_8/OvDLp7FwJH8/s1600/WhopperSmoothie4.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Creating this smoothie recipe started me thinking about a dessert I used to get as a kid and how I'd like to transform the concept of that dessert into another dessert smoothie...so be sure to check back soon for more healthy dessert options! <br />
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In the meantime, check out my latest recipe for a <a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/2014/11/ginger-snap-pumpkin-smoothie.html" target="_blank">Ginger Snap Pumpkin Smoothie</a>. The delicious flavors of fall in a tasty breakfast smoothie! Psst! It's great for dessert, too! <br />
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If you like, you can also check out the rest of my smoothie recipes by clicking the <a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/p/joe-bought-me-new-blender-for-mothers.html" target="_blank">smoothie tab</a> at the top of the page or by following this link <a href="http://www.underthebigoaktree.com/search?q=smoothie" target="_blank">Smoothie Recipes</a></div>
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Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post in any way. All ideas and opinions shared in this post are original and my own. </div>
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Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15543765583030340468noreply@blogger.com1