tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41294323447870276192024-03-05T23:10:35.928-05:00The Real Housewife of Bedford CountyA day in the life of a REAL housewife of Bedford County!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.comBlogger767125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-40662897531586783632012-05-24T05:20:00.002-05:002012-05-24T05:21:49.252-05:00Some Changes<div style="text-align: center;">
We've had lots of changes around the Simpson abode! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I started this blog, I was a stay-at-home mom with just two tiny little boys. Henry was two and David was three.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRKYJfRRO3jqxIekM4T1_1popkWvHslXRjmP04_lx0P4Ge11mV3-WZVSXJFB9WZXkxq3VcYRVoLgnYUNC94bsh1Et7Z9eFZVfmTrK6Mo5sFCPJ4swM0NT-8VcKWzXBm_Z47G8lw405EM/s1600/IMG_2273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRKYJfRRO3jqxIekM4T1_1popkWvHslXRjmP04_lx0P4Ge11mV3-WZVSXJFB9WZXkxq3VcYRVoLgnYUNC94bsh1Et7Z9eFZVfmTrK6Mo5sFCPJ4swM0NT-8VcKWzXBm_Z47G8lw405EM/s400/IMG_2273.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They are now going to be in second and third grade in the fall.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also, since I started the blog, I've gone back to work full-time at a job I adore, while my husband has left his job and now stays home with our children, which he loves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, speaking of children, we've added a couple more since the blog started.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPyHs9VE1WRjjYUyvuCsxzdKUXCiWxbazX72-851Xp_54sAA6wnbgG8ZeAbZbP9JrwJfX2AsVslQmacVjNOwANKIJYCQl5Ej5eRhrFb042kjTcI0FOQVl2vePbrdjQfl1hrD6hSveigc/s1600/IMG_0934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPyHs9VE1WRjjYUyvuCsxzdKUXCiWxbazX72-851Xp_54sAA6wnbgG8ZeAbZbP9JrwJfX2AsVslQmacVjNOwANKIJYCQl5Ej5eRhrFb042kjTcI0FOQVl2vePbrdjQfl1hrD6hSveigc/s400/IMG_0934.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jack is four now and is always ready for a party. He is a wild, cuddly little love, and he is the center of attention wherever he goes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JnUOilY8xjrie_hM1J8-_e6XJv0wOIR26mmkJ3eF2rRhLx3NytokmixppVwc1ESpAY3CRzzMSRHyoPqJM6E29aAhWhZoxZmWRU-6cm8YSCqA5aJe0sUSsjwOStH2_4ZA4vzMmmZj6ps/s1600/IMG_1108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JnUOilY8xjrie_hM1J8-_e6XJv0wOIR26mmkJ3eF2rRhLx3NytokmixppVwc1ESpAY3CRzzMSRHyoPqJM6E29aAhWhZoxZmWRU-6cm8YSCqA5aJe0sUSsjwOStH2_4ZA4vzMmmZj6ps/s400/IMG_1108.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And sweet Katie is finally here! Katie is the child we never knew we were supposed to have, but she is an amazing blessing and fits right in. Katie was adopted from Moscow, Russia and is bringing us more joy than we ever could have anticipated. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because of all of these changes, I think it's time to close the book on the Real Housewife of Bedford County. I will continue to blog at <a href="http://TheSimpsonSix.blogspot.com/">The Simpson Six</a>, because that's who we are now. I will not remove this blog, because it has captured so much of our lives for the last five years, but I will not post here anymore. I hope you will follow me at The Simpson Six!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-90750544697739665872012-04-19T20:48:00.002-05:002012-04-19T20:48:50.196-05:00Happy 7th Birthday Henry!<div style="text-align: center;">
Today is my sweet Henry's seventh birthday.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4-kxoP6QLg8qOzy5HOyRgKcuQv0rGP58IHULY4SKT6wfOi7Bak4IJkvdi6IxdKDHyUPFj1FJSFXZbNtIiSGewGtRaJGyixT-bFGumKV9h6-gfFkZU7J0Pf6UWaltZQMrp2HrIXoqbOc/s1600/IMG_2036_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4-kxoP6QLg8qOzy5HOyRgKcuQv0rGP58IHULY4SKT6wfOi7Bak4IJkvdi6IxdKDHyUPFj1FJSFXZbNtIiSGewGtRaJGyixT-bFGumKV9h6-gfFkZU7J0Pf6UWaltZQMrp2HrIXoqbOc/s400/IMG_2036_2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thinking about this special boy being seven years old - SEVEN - literally makes me want to cry.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCjv_xatbDKZtY6o5YkNee-r5qbPXrwcb4Y7VRkWOq4rfib41Q7VlfU32WDVSIWicnA3yp3zQNPqtxuYyRsILW_oxkxbZq7G84zf8NiYtVHUUKr1HQlQkCdDwl52nP0fc4gQBOXaqapE/s1600/henry1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCjv_xatbDKZtY6o5YkNee-r5qbPXrwcb4Y7VRkWOq4rfib41Q7VlfU32WDVSIWicnA3yp3zQNPqtxuYyRsILW_oxkxbZq7G84zf8NiYtVHUUKr1HQlQkCdDwl52nP0fc4gQBOXaqapE/s400/henry1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
I wish every parent could have a child like Henry.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Since the day he was born, he has been a complete joy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
He came out fat and happy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
As long as he was with his mama and had a full belly, life was all good for my love. And that's pretty much stayed the same.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUbYJDmhh5Ycl_XkRAeg0lRgZE7_ZuGfiBvWSxkQEQqqZGI1gNTeVH9rlglnxFrgFWZGV-OmUwf3n92M62u16ELbqjgvooBZij19aFpX_RNd_u7JBJRNjqP3nIZLceh9-QPyRr8PJFikc/s1600/henry2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUbYJDmhh5Ycl_XkRAeg0lRgZE7_ZuGfiBvWSxkQEQqqZGI1gNTeVH9rlglnxFrgFWZGV-OmUwf3n92M62u16ELbqjgvooBZij19aFpX_RNd_u7JBJRNjqP3nIZLceh9-QPyRr8PJFikc/s400/henry2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Henry never cried when he was a baby. This could likely be because I carried him in a Baby Bjorn for the first year of his life. He slept with me because Chris worked third shift and Henry ate every two hours for a year. He was my little snuggle bug. He was born just barely twelve months after David, and I was terrified of him at first. Terrified that I wasn't enough for two babies, that I wouldn't love him as much as I loved David, and that we were going to be in way over our heads with two tiny little humans to take care of. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Henry was everything I needed. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUlL8QjcBZ4PhyphenhyphenOboSoVWr1LM8HXjyqtaoRrUDMOHmAwAD4CTV-ER5BU_4-VaVFhLIotPmNzRaOgIvVvN5eFABnL4_fnfWkg8WQ39466e3pgPlBw5WErlWWbo-OQdaeVzQcHbvnhwpKZc/s1600/henry3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUlL8QjcBZ4PhyphenhyphenOboSoVWr1LM8HXjyqtaoRrUDMOHmAwAD4CTV-ER5BU_4-VaVFhLIotPmNzRaOgIvVvN5eFABnL4_fnfWkg8WQ39466e3pgPlBw5WErlWWbo-OQdaeVzQcHbvnhwpKZc/s400/henry3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
He has always been the sweetest boy. He's so happy to do pretty much anything. He's a good listener, curious, smart, and good at pretty much everything he tries. He is a total love.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJ2qPBiXBvEHR9nz_EdXK0j2JN5McD0P4rbpAm7ld-dVJqmAtOm07r1VvRZEkFigevrKlyvNcqh3vRgsGN9_lsJqfKNlAa7kOj2_Suro-2O62OKVqTVRFC2SE5Z6XgpABzpjD3J9welw/s1600/henry4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJ2qPBiXBvEHR9nz_EdXK0j2JN5McD0P4rbpAm7ld-dVJqmAtOm07r1VvRZEkFigevrKlyvNcqh3vRgsGN9_lsJqfKNlAa7kOj2_Suro-2O62OKVqTVRFC2SE5Z6XgpABzpjD3J9welw/s400/henry4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The thought of him getting older and older makes me so sad. I wish I had some way to freeze time and keep all of my boys exactly where they are right now.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGFDwHTxo7Dxy4lc56qjuz7iLGM884yF1Mhu27XZ86VrT2tv0bo03JdFBJ5gYQSHsYtJC3u3TEvzghh-ZOWWbN23cAKP8lnxJnpOhW3iUbwjnQtpyf-YK2Jh87E4dHGK5DNtXbQuEupmM/s1600/henry5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGFDwHTxo7Dxy4lc56qjuz7iLGM884yF1Mhu27XZ86VrT2tv0bo03JdFBJ5gYQSHsYtJC3u3TEvzghh-ZOWWbN23cAKP8lnxJnpOhW3iUbwjnQtpyf-YK2Jh87E4dHGK5DNtXbQuEupmM/s400/henry5.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Henry, at seven years old, loves Legos, making movies with his camcorder, playing Brickbuilder on the computer, Lego Ninjago, riding his bike, playing outside, swimming, jumping on the trampoline, arts and crafts, writing stories, drawing pictures, Harry Potter, Willy Wonka, and reading. He's a Cub Scout, in the science club, and on the baseball team. He's been on honor roll every semester since he started school and he loves every minute of every day.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gFN2tRgvi8zx-F4NqSmMJ56YZapCFIZENKSQYOtLhYI-qFYDQ7P73FXxioXfeSotK-ppIFkvxS-48o6pjk0oGvK9YQYXBISn7V8HXVZJDd1Sqem_rOyv-8geH1c2BcsoYMAKXYwcL5M/s1600/henry6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gFN2tRgvi8zx-F4NqSmMJ56YZapCFIZENKSQYOtLhYI-qFYDQ7P73FXxioXfeSotK-ppIFkvxS-48o6pjk0oGvK9YQYXBISn7V8HXVZJDd1Sqem_rOyv-8geH1c2BcsoYMAKXYwcL5M/s400/henry6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
His favorite foods are pizza, turkey sandwiches, cheeseburgers, smoothies, waffles, ice cream, Clementines, string cheese . . . let's be honest. He's not real picky. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
He's considerate, sweet, generous, and thoughtful. He's sensitive and has an enormous heart. He wants to help people, and I know he will do big things in his life. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlHAx9Wz_cNthLfRqmhTK_8ksw17llBDZ1c5A1jl8Lq606Ahjo8_NCW7Qa-AD86hiF0Iik6umuFWDpKzk7aR-IIO7LnnC6CBsnUQCJ4aFtlA8WGLqBs0hW4L5HdfC2QuBgU8wKGrf9Xw/s1600/henry7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlHAx9Wz_cNthLfRqmhTK_8ksw17llBDZ1c5A1jl8Lq606Ahjo8_NCW7Qa-AD86hiF0Iik6umuFWDpKzk7aR-IIO7LnnC6CBsnUQCJ4aFtlA8WGLqBs0hW4L5HdfC2QuBgU8wKGrf9Xw/s400/henry7.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Henry has been a complete delight since the day he was born. Please don't be mistaken - he can crank it up and have a fit like every other child. However, ninety-nine percent of the time he is the easiest child ever. He is an amazing little person, and I am so proud and lucky to be his mama.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5O5FuUKkq4ddBog8X6AD_VXxRowJYjCQHL0rt4v04EhdDEUSzYIX3Ru4ReWdrn4IpUHBJgxy7WLXhisq5XJkDIBS_cb0pz9gAkTHLGUudSGtO0mZkc3mdKhZwNcwBQmXq_LRFM-39yg/s1600/IMG_2055_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5O5FuUKkq4ddBog8X6AD_VXxRowJYjCQHL0rt4v04EhdDEUSzYIX3Ru4ReWdrn4IpUHBJgxy7WLXhisq5XJkDIBS_cb0pz9gAkTHLGUudSGtO0mZkc3mdKhZwNcwBQmXq_LRFM-39yg/s400/IMG_2055_2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy birthday my sweet boy!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-83763639324631240242012-04-12T09:17:00.000-05:002012-04-12T09:17:37.989-05:00We Are The Simpson Six<div style="text-align: center;">
We did it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After one hour of court and seven minutes of deliberation by the judge, it was ruled that we are now the parents of Katherine Ruth Simpson.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are The Simpson Six.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh90bV9GmBYw3DFzBufniPI3n5N2cexwr6iS2FohgifT55PYQOhTqT7yq8p9fNUiNTuxFL2ufXyDfvsVJTKki1GSNa7qP-ghPsd_nrcpYMJr-He0rYo2gfJ98OMH4Fp8aC64HMbMW1w4qM/s1600/IMG_1995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh90bV9GmBYw3DFzBufniPI3n5N2cexwr6iS2FohgifT55PYQOhTqT7yq8p9fNUiNTuxFL2ufXyDfvsVJTKki1GSNa7qP-ghPsd_nrcpYMJr-He0rYo2gfJ98OMH4Fp8aC64HMbMW1w4qM/s400/IMG_1995.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Love won.</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-5338070161839128442012-03-27T08:27:00.000-06:002012-03-27T08:27:04.382-06:00Tuesday Ten1. Henry hasn't been feeling well for two days. I'm not a run right to the doctor mother. He went this morning and has strep. Poor buddy.<br />
2. David's play is in two days. It's quite possible I'm more nervous than he is. In fact, I know that's the case.<br />
3. Katie will be home in less than ninety days. I think I'm nesting, because I'm sewing like crazy and cleaning out everything in our house. I've made her four bibs and have the patterns cut for a dress, a skirt, and a pair of pants.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0FbOv0O256XrkGVYkWmoogfWvX8oppN9xU4ILOBO9zXXuky9Pt1siCjNhtbwYvcGB9TlkZSoI5TruKkm_5-gvFWBdjc9sMqGmH3r3xg8O448NXLqeU5JiUZJ1gSy5D5aaVIT4qIludU/s1600/bib.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0FbOv0O256XrkGVYkWmoogfWvX8oppN9xU4ILOBO9zXXuky9Pt1siCjNhtbwYvcGB9TlkZSoI5TruKkm_5-gvFWBdjc9sMqGmH3r3xg8O448NXLqeU5JiUZJ1gSy5D5aaVIT4qIludU/s400/bib.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. The Opry Mills Mall reopens this week after being closed for two years. There will be a Lego store. We're going there this weekend for David's birthday treat. He has no idea, and he's going to be so surprised.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5. Hello. David is going to be EIGHT tomorrow. I cannot believe that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
6. I seriously think my children are geniuses. Look at Henry's bonus word on his spelling test:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-uwuhHmbNdpIxaKnr4gcBCcoXT8i8w8IKXmURm9gTskMXAYjJWeQzvE7pIlDGOcHXDmYyiZEzztFA3IcL3pVXilLytmPMBeOHFJckE_YhyphenhyphenRogoQV4rGx8I6DQhxdozWhOWG-VH4uYPg/s1600/spelling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-uwuhHmbNdpIxaKnr4gcBCcoXT8i8w8IKXmURm9gTskMXAYjJWeQzvE7pIlDGOcHXDmYyiZEzztFA3IcL3pVXilLytmPMBeOHFJckE_YhyphenhyphenRogoQV4rGx8I6DQhxdozWhOWG-VH4uYPg/s320/spelling.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm not sure why it's turned, because it's not like that on my screen until it uploads. . . Regardless, PEOPLE! The word is predicament. He's in first grade! I know lots (and lots) of adults who can't spell predicament. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
7. I am in a cooking funk. I don't want to do it and have no ideas for things to cook.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
8. I really want to do a CSA this year. And buy half of a cow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
9. Our weather has been fantastic. 70s and 80s every day. It makes me a little nervous for what the summer will be like.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10. I love Cadbury mini eggs. Too much. . . </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-44513987840149651602012-03-25T15:52:00.000-06:002012-03-25T15:52:11.369-06:00Beautiful Weekend<div style="text-align: center;">
We've had a fabulous weekend! We <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/2012/03/davids-birthday-party.html">celebrated David's 8th birthday</a> yesterday with a bounce obstacle course and several friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0p82Re9mva2M2sGnNnEYDu9V4pYx75MmyvDFUKatQUYxid8n7XHNlj1gadLuBmZ49asXzV9WqNzn7sQNemDqGY82tGZshd-2MClAx6SKfgTWyUl7buzB1svr1E7FrBjJX32esQCj6XiA/s1600/IMG_1672.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0p82Re9mva2M2sGnNnEYDu9V4pYx75MmyvDFUKatQUYxid8n7XHNlj1gadLuBmZ49asXzV9WqNzn7sQNemDqGY82tGZshd-2MClAx6SKfgTWyUl7buzB1svr1E7FrBjJX32esQCj6XiA/s400/IMG_1672.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiuYMXhKMdTj5HWSN8V2FkOZiS9OS586kaiYPZumCgFGnCAETnqxuNh5ONSVLkS-v9l1c2PO9gXIXHytJuvcHDWTpQ7E3_p2wkOTySkPXMCN_ViVD7T7s2niUBCeaGAHGezA0pHvi7YzA/s1600/IMG_1683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiuYMXhKMdTj5HWSN8V2FkOZiS9OS586kaiYPZumCgFGnCAETnqxuNh5ONSVLkS-v9l1c2PO9gXIXHytJuvcHDWTpQ7E3_p2wkOTySkPXMCN_ViVD7T7s2niUBCeaGAHGezA0pHvi7YzA/s400/IMG_1683.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUazE1a2piKKPu1D82FAWYoDzSRbzCkTxYF2ZrzYEDh0LEfhzI1LJaCrgEKLBfnBIAHCWNTnMr-Ca3TzckFlFrzXTufsplKIiFYUthWh_5CmdkOPAwb-ElJOtoMSN1KKsLSyqB_dpBlLM/s1600/IMG_1687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUazE1a2piKKPu1D82FAWYoDzSRbzCkTxYF2ZrzYEDh0LEfhzI1LJaCrgEKLBfnBIAHCWNTnMr-Ca3TzckFlFrzXTufsplKIiFYUthWh_5CmdkOPAwb-ElJOtoMSN1KKsLSyqB_dpBlLM/s400/IMG_1687.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today we ran some errands, David used some of his birthday money, and I planted our flowers. We're planning to have a Welcome Home/5th Birthday party for Katie this summer when our family from Massachusetts is here. I want our flowers to be big and full when we have our party, so I planted this weekend. Our weather has been fantastic, and I hope I haven't planted too early!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBpCYnga6KfuR9kJQB84QkcPreO80Z54SltNXPO-QgNWnciVJUUFey3xx7hygaWrwrhefLMbWSqHsVmeOhSWWCcOLzWaS8sNB0RbsY-I4NsVQXpWd4i3G0wAlBZuim7vKMk13-_wyPwM/s1600/IMG_1719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBpCYnga6KfuR9kJQB84QkcPreO80Z54SltNXPO-QgNWnciVJUUFey3xx7hygaWrwrhefLMbWSqHsVmeOhSWWCcOLzWaS8sNB0RbsY-I4NsVQXpWd4i3G0wAlBZuim7vKMk13-_wyPwM/s400/IMG_1719.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I LOVE these big pinwheels.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAKRQh2DS4KFL5PuGgsx3-NEKtRRsSSRtKZeUZtq6aSc-b1zdrEVvRRT9Uzd4IkfBugxkoKs5Mxs_636Hic3r7hSuGeNrPmA27cPmQLe5Nc0yaPt3rutI0hEnDC1A2dlWe2DEcpEc8wr8/s1600/IMG_1720_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAKRQh2DS4KFL5PuGgsx3-NEKtRRsSSRtKZeUZtq6aSc-b1zdrEVvRRT9Uzd4IkfBugxkoKs5Mxs_636Hic3r7hSuGeNrPmA27cPmQLe5Nc0yaPt3rutI0hEnDC1A2dlWe2DEcpEc8wr8/s400/IMG_1720_2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I put them in the urns on my front porch.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIzFWRDt9hnB9uSJhcdlZHutkN5NSPOgobp942ZLQRnq3Rp7XyZimvizuBpvtuqHFCndV-b4n5ozkxvU_BXPf05yQP0NhiwGog6dLUXLyv1uNZaTemkv79JTHNK2Ip7D8InoRTkXfissY/s1600/IMG_1724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIzFWRDt9hnB9uSJhcdlZHutkN5NSPOgobp942ZLQRnq3Rp7XyZimvizuBpvtuqHFCndV-b4n5ozkxvU_BXPf05yQP0NhiwGog6dLUXLyv1uNZaTemkv79JTHNK2Ip7D8InoRTkXfissY/s400/IMG_1724.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm going to fill these in with a tall something in the back and a trailing something in the front. The selection at the store is pretty limited still.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfGbO97NxiqVDcunq3dfnBVa-3H_tsVkXPeAuccss71LqtQJWBi486YVP7qsP4S0xErXgBeqc9zeKMJQorhMCkfzBlQ79GHT3ULvb3cmRkdkqski2_XV5ctWZWtqzGZXhDLPg3yDKLXo/s1600/IMG_1727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfGbO97NxiqVDcunq3dfnBVa-3H_tsVkXPeAuccss71LqtQJWBi486YVP7qsP4S0xErXgBeqc9zeKMJQorhMCkfzBlQ79GHT3ULvb3cmRkdkqski2_XV5ctWZWtqzGZXhDLPg3yDKLXo/s400/IMG_1727.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We planted a zucchini plant and a yellow squash plant too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPcbyQyRCxvrwI4ZsjX093bsHktQBHq2MvM-PtB2bdC1Ezvl0RCBy2IsrfADHku0_NwRODGSBLzYsxzxZvQZl8T5-gdlzqmYUyXdzVXuv9UWmAGZOMRBGtU1RPWI61d7Q3dvqF0_GoJNg/s1600/IMG_1723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPcbyQyRCxvrwI4ZsjX093bsHktQBHq2MvM-PtB2bdC1Ezvl0RCBy2IsrfADHku0_NwRODGSBLzYsxzxZvQZl8T5-gdlzqmYUyXdzVXuv9UWmAGZOMRBGtU1RPWI61d7Q3dvqF0_GoJNg/s400/IMG_1723.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hope your weekend was great!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-41145032456578955182012-03-25T09:16:00.003-06:002012-03-25T09:16:58.189-06:00Long Overdue UpdateI cannot believe I haven't updated this blog in over a month. Eek! We've been busy!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Chris and I had our long awaited first visits with <a href="http://www.thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/">sweet Katie Ruth</a>. We had a <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/2012/02/trip-one-day-one.html">bit of difficulty actually getting to her country, </a> but once we got there it was so worth the trouble.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyM6zxISrCn2kOiIWw6Oj69Vei7C6MJye0LsTLZ78kldO-3SsDftCftsgflAHgDbqOnLKifQCOhxyZTF29u7iwfUwhyZPgtUXqWxW0TMBHNO9cOUta01xlXYA4Gj9BGJpgeam-mUxCc6Y/s1600/IMG_1569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyM6zxISrCn2kOiIWw6Oj69Vei7C6MJye0LsTLZ78kldO-3SsDftCftsgflAHgDbqOnLKifQCOhxyZTF29u7iwfUwhyZPgtUXqWxW0TMBHNO9cOUta01xlXYA4Gj9BGJpgeam-mUxCc6Y/s400/IMG_1569.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgaQ_JVSgCiUfJUWyfXtIhzE3RZvzAH5Ui9pp8cXLa9QvzJ3tMUPTidYOu7QdbLK_4PJfr_WwpLCCaPGj0-pFEGWxv9Tj24HKbEDrM3pC0CwtrAWDPYE76H0BsbW6vqHSVK_QXz-9SEs/s1600/IMG_0656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgaQ_JVSgCiUfJUWyfXtIhzE3RZvzAH5Ui9pp8cXLa9QvzJ3tMUPTidYOu7QdbLK_4PJfr_WwpLCCaPGj0-pFEGWxv9Tj24HKbEDrM3pC0CwtrAWDPYE76H0BsbW6vqHSVK_QXz-9SEs/s400/IMG_0656.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcXXUkWQQ9a1pZpbT10E7Ik7-G7TioqAsz48GrZJZJo7ztVV0XlfTZ31FRB-G15a1HjQfRqHPWJbeFo5R-nfrUIyW68oHrMZn7Q-6I10xFWwtvK_7wvHaUJ1nMuqp5cSuk57RRb53o-A/s1600/IMG_1580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcXXUkWQQ9a1pZpbT10E7Ik7-G7TioqAsz48GrZJZJo7ztVV0XlfTZ31FRB-G15a1HjQfRqHPWJbeFo5R-nfrUIyW68oHrMZn7Q-6I10xFWwtvK_7wvHaUJ1nMuqp5cSuk57RRb53o-A/s400/IMG_1580.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgS11ZNyjNFISS1dLnTvIfsRCC_uM71Oo4o3dxBn-3iG8nMVzazcMU7XUr4ImTjN_AiLUpLgrgu0ajHLMDN1Aqnzni1CXiOsaLy4OcWQIbDTk37QIEoyFeIHyH9MYGjQ9vuFsogtgRuM/s1600/IMG_1581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgS11ZNyjNFISS1dLnTvIfsRCC_uM71Oo4o3dxBn-3iG8nMVzazcMU7XUr4ImTjN_AiLUpLgrgu0ajHLMDN1Aqnzni1CXiOsaLy4OcWQIbDTk37QIEoyFeIHyH9MYGjQ9vuFsogtgRuM/s400/IMG_1581.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XqzdR1BdHd_FU47HrI5mgSY5RLhPzARQNMg4nY6eiTxLMbEJKpdTBvstv-Vuy35S7MQLb_tHcUu74PKXlcLJPF5rhJ-hkXlKT5Br3CQ94D5hmx1Sz2Owy8SP9utmX6NKNQS8gmXl0kQ/s1600/IMG_1589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XqzdR1BdHd_FU47HrI5mgSY5RLhPzARQNMg4nY6eiTxLMbEJKpdTBvstv-Vuy35S7MQLb_tHcUu74PKXlcLJPF5rhJ-hkXlKT5Br3CQ94D5hmx1Sz2Owy8SP9utmX6NKNQS8gmXl0kQ/s400/IMG_1589.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZhMIphheU4ryc7HydoYksFiefIq1Bgl5H8Q1a7ROFVAUHH3RjU1BEm6joqNvOHWFMdBwPfTVgeqUf43JGBU8MQ-YGqbkzqMDc4bQHVg6uxDluq50nZh9-Aq764t3ZXOpOChJJc7NKZI/s1600/IMG_1597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZhMIphheU4ryc7HydoYksFiefIq1Bgl5H8Q1a7ROFVAUHH3RjU1BEm6joqNvOHWFMdBwPfTVgeqUf43JGBU8MQ-YGqbkzqMDc4bQHVg6uxDluq50nZh9-Aq764t3ZXOpOChJJc7NKZI/s400/IMG_1597.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2tsupwAByeZQH4BYnE2lCZAmwCWImZFBGEGBYPlemwePekYNq_U5sXBBlCi-D9kI9NZtB8ppNOscbS845iR9LVBLhyi6vk8vPL1Y589T8-hXpm_kUh4pNGIRkuunzHQOoh5DIH21P8o/s1600/IMG_1657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2tsupwAByeZQH4BYnE2lCZAmwCWImZFBGEGBYPlemwePekYNq_U5sXBBlCi-D9kI9NZtB8ppNOscbS845iR9LVBLhyi6vk8vPL1Y589T8-hXpm_kUh4pNGIRkuunzHQOoh5DIH21P8o/s400/IMG_1657.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Katie is amazing. Smart, sassy, fun, energetic, happy, and full of life. She is little for almost five years old, but she's not nearly as tiny as we anticipated she would be. She is so, so much more than we could have hoped for. We are incredibly lucky, and we cannot wait to have her home. Our <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/2012/03/court-dossier-filed.html">court papers were filed</a> two weeks ago, and we will have our court date sometime within 8 weeks of filing. Katie will then be home 30 days after court. Soooo, that means that she should be home sometime in the next SIX WEEKS! That is absolutely incredible. I can't wait to get back and see her again, and especially can't wait to have her home with us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought the waiting would be horrendous, once we had actually met her. It hasn't been that bad. Certainly, having three other children makes that waiting a little less daunting, simply because I don't have time to think about it. David and Henry have started baseball again. They have a new coach, and we are in the very start of the season. They both recently got report cards and did exceptionally well. We are so fortunate to have them in a school that we love so much, where they are exceeding any expectations we had for them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7TuBJjOrUFZo3TtYLYofHwHFPtr7JbnUuHUk6iTxTPQJTAkSrsREeZJ5plcK38nJY_ahcipfr14JVqxniGW4ZdrzrytCQO0rVmSouzfoUk1A0OabtFpZ08LJRIpdZnHh5gPuC3McWwU/s1600/IMG_0671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7TuBJjOrUFZo3TtYLYofHwHFPtr7JbnUuHUk6iTxTPQJTAkSrsREeZJ5plcK38nJY_ahcipfr14JVqxniGW4ZdrzrytCQO0rVmSouzfoUk1A0OabtFpZ08LJRIpdZnHh5gPuC3McWwU/s400/IMG_0671.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We got this chair for Katie at a consignment sale - $7.00! I'm going to paint it a bright, cheery color. She's too little to reach the table in a regular chair, but I don't want to do a baby highchair.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhvG4UIwVOEgJcsoD_4C7ixzSLTjEiZTiJg1PWzU-GftuMRiH1R4YfwfnrHmCi0sVnE-24-vdA8dQxtRdqdAOPScVvN8S6_NoIJOFiENIbI_M4KmPuQ5ykn5AOYT2gz4fmD6KWplMY-Q/s1600/IMG_0673.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhvG4UIwVOEgJcsoD_4C7ixzSLTjEiZTiJg1PWzU-GftuMRiH1R4YfwfnrHmCi0sVnE-24-vdA8dQxtRdqdAOPScVvN8S6_NoIJOFiENIbI_M4KmPuQ5ykn5AOYT2gz4fmD6KWplMY-Q/s400/IMG_0673.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Big boys got haircuts and frozen yogurt. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEaS0lOPJICHoHHgkDklbTVd3-eDzxhbCU6lFSbjlg80GaDE2byKGmnFTy72VAhes52Kz1ZAAOGvn6nOiGfQiX_-H_HTvBJL0-ph1iboKLAPNjD3lgdIJ6es9S6rzDIKs9Wx2ByCHZxY/s1600/IMG_0674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEaS0lOPJICHoHHgkDklbTVd3-eDzxhbCU6lFSbjlg80GaDE2byKGmnFTy72VAhes52Kz1ZAAOGvn6nOiGfQiX_-H_HTvBJL0-ph1iboKLAPNjD3lgdIJ6es9S6rzDIKs9Wx2ByCHZxY/s400/IMG_0674.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We started shopping for new booster/carseats for Katie and Jack. Jack can move up, but I just don't feel like he's big enough for a seatbelt only seat - I know he's legally big enough, but I don't feel comfortable with it, so we're exploring some other options.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ICV9blHgeVNmhSluZYzUaJovujbdI3nN0-OFAmbQk5D_Cp_oDCGBYoN6J6Ok_YLXES7oyco0TpllrKgQnHVUARR_grWoKjIT9y9bp3bfq3CrQ1J6P8hlXUdeDjFuSW1_-lvJQGi5GdQ/s1600/IMG_0675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ICV9blHgeVNmhSluZYzUaJovujbdI3nN0-OFAmbQk5D_Cp_oDCGBYoN6J6Ok_YLXES7oyco0TpllrKgQnHVUARR_grWoKjIT9y9bp3bfq3CrQ1J6P8hlXUdeDjFuSW1_-lvJQGi5GdQ/s400/IMG_0675.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7HjE5uJOcwX9wAajWp2pMxotRP-_z_MGNw47oIWzE98ygKRbsJq6vrwErIJIx8ge9p-KsxTi0oehuzZeg90QaUn6137TqhuMW5ct0edbukug16sIXV7hqANeAD1H68zlv8QJYUaPWCc/s1600/IMG_0681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7HjE5uJOcwX9wAajWp2pMxotRP-_z_MGNw47oIWzE98ygKRbsJq6vrwErIJIx8ge9p-KsxTi0oehuzZeg90QaUn6137TqhuMW5ct0edbukug16sIXV7hqANeAD1H68zlv8QJYUaPWCc/s400/IMG_0681.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've been playing a lot of "chef".</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCBjPZZ5qBObw6ApTWiATxryCdj7Z1f6eQX3JaXZjdkpLKWhbmihaebhAO1_CP3zP2XXWKBT-nA36FdQJbY-9BgV2O1hU7sEKMRMsKMlu39z90tOOSjreFTjLGlISSjEj_0M627rj2ts/s1600/IMG_0685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCBjPZZ5qBObw6ApTWiATxryCdj7Z1f6eQX3JaXZjdkpLKWhbmihaebhAO1_CP3zP2XXWKBT-nA36FdQJbY-9BgV2O1hU7sEKMRMsKMlu39z90tOOSjreFTjLGlISSjEj_0M627rj2ts/s400/IMG_0685.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, as always, building a lot of lego creations.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKk94IbPl2MbxoW89ZXZvCAZ-ChxPLJzdjMTjEE7jDLID54SX4KbYn2BTT_R-zswGgVOCcv95tg20RI-3ol7853NlwYXOBp0NnvzjTPYm65szsvCR6tTcAskwUDrKHa-pGq7jv8UZPmQ/s1600/IMG_0686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKk94IbPl2MbxoW89ZXZvCAZ-ChxPLJzdjMTjEE7jDLID54SX4KbYn2BTT_R-zswGgVOCcv95tg20RI-3ol7853NlwYXOBp0NnvzjTPYm65szsvCR6tTcAskwUDrKHa-pGq7jv8UZPmQ/s400/IMG_0686.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-prb65tuzBqmpQIfWF7Rl0htDDT7YShoLvyGe7Ob3TtWyQPmrwRIZmeq80TQZokkfPZh6qWDWahyefYH7q7_pZbi2vBeJXE0tBUEhQh9VGh0wtTW755Ww81t2WwefGWg-Zg-NlSzyx8/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-prb65tuzBqmpQIfWF7Rl0htDDT7YShoLvyGe7Ob3TtWyQPmrwRIZmeq80TQZokkfPZh6qWDWahyefYH7q7_pZbi2vBeJXE0tBUEhQh9VGh0wtTW755Ww81t2WwefGWg-Zg-NlSzyx8/s400/IMG_0689.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now that we know how big Katie is, we've been able to shop for some "girl laundry". And it's so fun!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0JtqMehRUjo9aNk1LOlqslOTXd8Hovgple8sNelUjQbvlPM9GvPUObyXBcbYuMc4IBOqTLBwtADO_NAybPuzA8pqtGMn9MlhE-pdeW5F72a3K4n4CZquqsd_WDqsGiLGmE-pfBkaGM_w/s1600/IMG_0710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0JtqMehRUjo9aNk1LOlqslOTXd8Hovgple8sNelUjQbvlPM9GvPUObyXBcbYuMc4IBOqTLBwtADO_NAybPuzA8pqtGMn9MlhE-pdeW5F72a3K4n4CZquqsd_WDqsGiLGmE-pfBkaGM_w/s400/IMG_0710.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also cleaned the dryer. And I mean <i>cleaned</i> it. This is 10 years worth of lint inside the machine. <strike>We</strike> Chris took the whole thing apart and cleaned it out. He had to empty the vacuum three times. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYB7bvGznvDaHB2zbjqNBB-YqT9VrMovFpq4y7YQlvx82Mt53S-Nl6aFQTl51de9mKjxCbbBe5T_oYxfrV9ylfL29kcd5x0Wuy7mvuDANMKX07ucLVQs-WswBghCJnINJw0_dFNaJe-U4/s1600/IMG_0735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYB7bvGznvDaHB2zbjqNBB-YqT9VrMovFpq4y7YQlvx82Mt53S-Nl6aFQTl51de9mKjxCbbBe5T_oYxfrV9ylfL29kcd5x0Wuy7mvuDANMKX07ucLVQs-WswBghCJnINJw0_dFNaJe-U4/s400/IMG_0735.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've played pirate and climbed trees.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbA05kJkytK2_ghe45hqG9DqQghqdnOIS5klM4PkMfvxCErtdfmyLB4DSFJMN0QKq5AKDOUz-WAiGa0Ku_uZKDtaZtiu9CnXqTisaziPPvX9F6RtBSd6HEXiGW0oCUfI821OHowSnRIgg/s1600/IMG_0751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbA05kJkytK2_ghe45hqG9DqQghqdnOIS5klM4PkMfvxCErtdfmyLB4DSFJMN0QKq5AKDOUz-WAiGa0Ku_uZKDtaZtiu9CnXqTisaziPPvX9F6RtBSd6HEXiGW0oCUfI821OHowSnRIgg/s400/IMG_0751.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And we had a visit with Gigi and Grampy's new chickens.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NNxqPTgPIGKq_e6aEO7shxxY-ErJ6jNsavzGBrOH7Fieu0XkooRq1mtBpcUSbnjvWZ66F2SmtSIwCos3Ocj6OdNhMxwYxToixEM28Hqz0F4Wi6FWy0C4evEz2ffmfDkA2rblZNLMk9k/s1600/IMG_0752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NNxqPTgPIGKq_e6aEO7shxxY-ErJ6jNsavzGBrOH7Fieu0XkooRq1mtBpcUSbnjvWZ66F2SmtSIwCos3Ocj6OdNhMxwYxToixEM28Hqz0F4Wi6FWy0C4evEz2ffmfDkA2rblZNLMk9k/s400/IMG_0752.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They've all been named, and a chart has been developed so Gigi knows who is who.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZe006rUdo0LT1Z1Bv9M-MvoOrTaCUi_brf7qeHm2acZPdsmrxiekbqDLDW6V8QFxMXDBz1FK0SyeETbg42vODhPFeFkBDlOdwUIUDvkMsilgWYUr4Rbo09KEYZtYOh-F-4pyhzUXVQvI/s1600/IMG_0754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZe006rUdo0LT1Z1Bv9M-MvoOrTaCUi_brf7qeHm2acZPdsmrxiekbqDLDW6V8QFxMXDBz1FK0SyeETbg42vODhPFeFkBDlOdwUIUDvkMsilgWYUr4Rbo09KEYZtYOh-F-4pyhzUXVQvI/s400/IMG_0754.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And we're very excited for some fresh eggs!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1X1mwv2n_6f1_3ByURSLhAiYhhyphenhyphenlTK-sXJmhVdQaI2al8UjEKswWMaV925R0DZKBMZDYooxmVdaog9dxDWMLXofClV_3NmgAHJhbFmLE5Y3dr6YbROUN8MmW5zv3w-c1O7-gIujl0qeE/s1600/IMG_0756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1X1mwv2n_6f1_3ByURSLhAiYhhyphenhyphenlTK-sXJmhVdQaI2al8UjEKswWMaV925R0DZKBMZDYooxmVdaog9dxDWMLXofClV_3NmgAHJhbFmLE5Y3dr6YbROUN8MmW5zv3w-c1O7-gIujl0qeE/s400/IMG_0756.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've played more legos. . . this is never ending.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jVaQgrhrcosXCvbFaMXTKbC7bSxy_wI1QV_6qSaHlf-P99g970ICik27zET-mvyEcsRY9Je_mNC4MdtD6SV1UAHZ8_ufEiy68GRB2Hw_V4gEXeXmTqv7pGreTeNr2tIR3Gk1rFpNghU/s1600/IMG_0757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jVaQgrhrcosXCvbFaMXTKbC7bSxy_wI1QV_6qSaHlf-P99g970ICik27zET-mvyEcsRY9Je_mNC4MdtD6SV1UAHZ8_ufEiy68GRB2Hw_V4gEXeXmTqv7pGreTeNr2tIR3Gk1rFpNghU/s400/IMG_0757.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jack has been dressing in some serious Harry Potter gear. Constantly.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8KwyQ0kMMXAguowd0Qw1Ln3FuVs8SJL7hzMm1hjG4WxyxLv8r4fpzfmB9oL97T7WRH1vEw4bTr1YrWfGA-07D6au0diU2RIyelz9ySAqAqzrqHjPwL6DVuwY3f3QKZMHzljQFC8FmbE/s1600/IMG_0758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8KwyQ0kMMXAguowd0Qw1Ln3FuVs8SJL7hzMm1hjG4WxyxLv8r4fpzfmB9oL97T7WRH1vEw4bTr1YrWfGA-07D6au0diU2RIyelz9ySAqAqzrqHjPwL6DVuwY3f3QKZMHzljQFC8FmbE/s400/IMG_0758.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've had some gorgeous weather and had our first outside dinner of the season.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLJYR-0tG8HmhWfbpN8DoYF6Ivi_TM77myx33rjHVoQvyOEXWseeXx664ZUX9MGER5puQTsJTpiNIgtV6zCeh-OpwafgSyReLLqv6hOqvvc-V_kc-YWM7c8bXEE4n7CRwuYmk7j6nB5A/s1600/IMG_0763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLJYR-0tG8HmhWfbpN8DoYF6Ivi_TM77myx33rjHVoQvyOEXWseeXx664ZUX9MGER5puQTsJTpiNIgtV6zCeh-OpwafgSyReLLqv6hOqvvc-V_kc-YWM7c8bXEE4n7CRwuYmk7j6nB5A/s400/IMG_0763.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David is in a play at school this week, and he's an Oompa Loompa. He's been practicing and I think his costume is a riot. I'm so, so proud of him for trying out and sticking with it, and he's very excited for his theatrical debut!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-34573034903201354602012-02-18T20:06:00.002-06:002012-02-18T20:06:44.022-06:00Not a Great MomentI was on the phone with Michele last night when I heard a HORRENDOUS crash. Like, furniture falling, glass breaking, children screaming crash. I hung up and went running upstairs - I thought that it was a bookcase tipping over and our aquarium falling. I knew this couldn't be the case, because the bookcase is attached to the wall, but that was the first thing I thought of. I realized that wasn't it, and I could still hear children screaming. Like, I thought someone was going to have to go to the hospital screaming. It was not upstairs. . .<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGgUHWvGj9Bt21faAZHwJ-QXNfUdBKcIbj__QIzds0rCt5xnNaSBvc_nJWRnh5QqFJf80aQvaao08ljGtM4P-2bn-W79744LwIpnnIslzIiB5QApE1nAxs6GPywmxD3coG_0X85aY_Sg/s1600/bfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGgUHWvGj9Bt21faAZHwJ-QXNfUdBKcIbj__QIzds0rCt5xnNaSBvc_nJWRnh5QqFJf80aQvaao08ljGtM4P-2bn-W79744LwIpnnIslzIiB5QApE1nAxs6GPywmxD3coG_0X85aY_Sg/s400/bfast.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAuaU_lNDEZ5dnXtGwpF3XY_OdGmO-I3Sfhej8_ieaCO7q78Ff5oiqVE6QYeds8kwkc4pbjscSY4hMcEzrJaxucLJ3HN6SHGrh0j4UMJIAuujUT_MQna1BoB_wHAHjhypyUGxGYRe0uw/s1600/bfast3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAuaU_lNDEZ5dnXtGwpF3XY_OdGmO-I3Sfhej8_ieaCO7q78Ff5oiqVE6QYeds8kwkc4pbjscSY4hMcEzrJaxucLJ3HN6SHGrh0j4UMJIAuujUT_MQna1BoB_wHAHjhypyUGxGYRe0uw/s400/bfast3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
During. . . </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nobody was hurt! They were so scared of the crash and the glass breaking that the boys were all hysterical. And I mean HYSTERICAL. David and Henry cried until they threw up. That pushed Chris and me over the edge, and we were cracking up laughing. Perhaps not the most appropriate. And, of course, I wouldn't let Chris clean anything up until I took a photo!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXdEt-S_BsRZ9sdpzuATcygeS6z6nusEmJKsEZ67N_c8uwzjyDGgBJeug9yFXYFhUCbTIV3pXkmvzCzUflItUzTKMJP8_fPqoLuoLytrXUtSZhNmTMxpEJ60FE4T6OVoqtceb9qzKRTY/s1600/bfast2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXdEt-S_BsRZ9sdpzuATcygeS6z6nusEmJKsEZ67N_c8uwzjyDGgBJeug9yFXYFhUCbTIV3pXkmvzCzUflItUzTKMJP8_fPqoLuoLytrXUtSZhNmTMxpEJ60FE4T6OVoqtceb9qzKRTY/s400/bfast2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The glass in the doors didn't even break - this is a solid piece of furniture! We had a Rock City birdhouse on the top that was a casualty, and one old glass milk bottle. Nothing else broke!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-4026474903794925612012-02-18T19:33:00.004-06:002012-02-18T19:33:58.325-06:00Pinewood Derby Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ArhmTsazdMItJMP6tElDMgdxeNwrnYUJd8STI8AXAZBOpC63-A76Dx-l1UWqYS1hlQIA1ERsSgGVxWWTeHmGg3Q5Dtwu46SPB5mgNoo0aGFvwgR7YZ7kycKcbdvVVlO6g14EA2OP1YI/s1600/IMG_1488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ArhmTsazdMItJMP6tElDMgdxeNwrnYUJd8STI8AXAZBOpC63-A76Dx-l1UWqYS1hlQIA1ERsSgGVxWWTeHmGg3Q5Dtwu46SPB5mgNoo0aGFvwgR7YZ7kycKcbdvVVlO6g14EA2OP1YI/s400/IMG_1488.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today was the Pinewood Derby for David and Henry.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYu67AnnduSL6jYkSgYE2NgPTLZKhuj5czHkBHNKS-Vkv7eJ49m1hVoRDG5oKehLfrNlmHo-wU0AEViQGSLfEHJchWUmY89Jmra0EyJEAOIHDaOrfxyJUQ-u50w4oRUWgcSdR7s4eEnQQ/s1600/IMG_1490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYu67AnnduSL6jYkSgYE2NgPTLZKhuj5czHkBHNKS-Vkv7eJ49m1hVoRDG5oKehLfrNlmHo-wU0AEViQGSLfEHJchWUmY89Jmra0EyJEAOIHDaOrfxyJUQ-u50w4oRUWgcSdR7s4eEnQQ/s400/IMG_1490.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were both very proud of their cars.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIbCuErzoXzxwhZCGH4gIX5BCdUc247Ytmg-m8YdiC4FW80zUETKk3CLjlUBwg5PUISshbMDVJvH074NlUp3XTuzgFtiKFowuSYgkBt1ba6Pt78_lF54NoF9fx1dPIk80vj1C_Y5HxmE/s1600/IMG_1492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIbCuErzoXzxwhZCGH4gIX5BCdUc247Ytmg-m8YdiC4FW80zUETKk3CLjlUBwg5PUISshbMDVJvH074NlUp3XTuzgFtiKFowuSYgkBt1ba6Pt78_lF54NoF9fx1dPIk80vj1C_Y5HxmE/s400/IMG_1492.jpg" width="347" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And they each won a few races! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No trophies, but they had lots of fun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-42407430346873129952012-02-15T21:53:00.002-06:002012-02-15T21:53:55.583-06:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgJHzaS8cjirp_odI-HMHuBJG9M8tfgNEyh2nBYNf3v__OXYKI0HWjPDhd8HoAiE-wHrG0aWli9idRzF1YHFdVhHGvJwGME9VEd_yan6HEW3d64cWXzJOIU5cFCc1sqIFZXGr9fembag/s1600/IMG_1483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgJHzaS8cjirp_odI-HMHuBJG9M8tfgNEyh2nBYNf3v__OXYKI0HWjPDhd8HoAiE-wHrG0aWli9idRzF1YHFdVhHGvJwGME9VEd_yan6HEW3d64cWXzJOIU5cFCc1sqIFZXGr9fembag/s400/IMG_1483.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-83589113816863761032012-02-06T19:27:00.005-06:002012-02-06T19:27:59.369-06:00In Case You Missed It. . .For those who may not know, we have been working hard for almost a year to <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/">adopt a little girl</a>. Her name will be Katie, and she has <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_syndrome">Down syndrome</a>. She is four years old, and we are ready for her to come home! Well, we're one step closer. . . We have a travel date!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMm_gzsCPaYpt8gfZ6V3vo1Sd5KHe2YfF72n8fGFMIAu5moX6p5yCyRyasLtjJ3l8VNVXz2tza_Em2xBRaX2JQCxCL2raveIi6m9QHyH6GORPptUrV3rQCVYMXlD2Gqfeac-_3JKvEfk/s1600/plane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMm_gzsCPaYpt8gfZ6V3vo1Sd5KHe2YfF72n8fGFMIAu5moX6p5yCyRyasLtjJ3l8VNVXz2tza_Em2xBRaX2JQCxCL2raveIi6m9QHyH6GORPptUrV3rQCVYMXlD2Gqfeac-_3JKvEfk/s400/plane.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We leave on February 25th to fly to Katie's country. We will have some official meetings, learn more about her medical history, family history, and things of that nature, and then FINALLY get to meet our girl! To say I'm excited would be like saying that the ocean is big. We are thrilled! Make sure you check our other blog, <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/">The Simpson Six</a>, where I explain more about the process of international adoption, and we are counting down every day until we get to her!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-64212238126047465302012-02-01T05:53:00.001-06:002012-02-01T05:53:05.461-06:00Coins for Katie Add Up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3o8EDpX1MRlriDcAE5EdOvuqwTTJX22S5tymOn61k1xuiwiH2VwgY9SapVSOjIPUCYxAhP4q5u3VfVXkqKxfqxVyLxXrQUTG4KCksXhZfe1nrLFdmNYkDkIYe87bV6XEQ0tM_t8Xn7bU/s1600/IMG_0424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3o8EDpX1MRlriDcAE5EdOvuqwTTJX22S5tymOn61k1xuiwiH2VwgY9SapVSOjIPUCYxAhP4q5u3VfVXkqKxfqxVyLxXrQUTG4KCksXhZfe1nrLFdmNYkDkIYe87bV6XEQ0tM_t8Xn7bU/s400/IMG_0424.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is our Coins for Katie jar at home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's an old dog treat container that I've taped a 5x7 photo of her onto.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And added a hair bow.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtjmjb_V5kk4p2g0MbCSh2sVIYU1Am4ESBnKGS-9h2eWDotGsWpR0S2OuZwBASuNMoHSHea33QL4noyb3HnbX7xNS04leQTPRt3VVFZW4IVMDsBzZo7qsGJ9qxgEOO1Uzwk282I4Oukg/s1600/IMG_0425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtjmjb_V5kk4p2g0MbCSh2sVIYU1Am4ESBnKGS-9h2eWDotGsWpR0S2OuZwBASuNMoHSHea33QL4noyb3HnbX7xNS04leQTPRt3VVFZW4IVMDsBzZo7qsGJ9qxgEOO1Uzwk282I4Oukg/s400/IMG_0425.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To give you an idea of the scale, this is the jar next to a coffee cup.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRcG4cYldNuKuK2sokftm3TK8j20MOoYJv4-ZNMNsFAQwkfkgPVLHFGDuYn7BiU4zgaLjjv0u8hnh8fq8bDn-RiI5uO_GJsFD6wEhuWzn2tzSkA0DCIkVMvbSeuJ2c1zwPmGzeq386AA/s1600/IMG_0426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRcG4cYldNuKuK2sokftm3TK8j20MOoYJv4-ZNMNsFAQwkfkgPVLHFGDuYn7BiU4zgaLjjv0u8hnh8fq8bDn-RiI5uO_GJsFD6wEhuWzn2tzSkA0DCIkVMvbSeuJ2c1zwPmGzeq386AA/s400/IMG_0426.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is what it looked like last night.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chris and I counted it and rolled it, and there was over $140 in there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The entire premise of Coins for Katie is that a little bit of change goes a long way. Well, all of the change - literally pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters - we have collected has totaled over $5,000.00 so far. FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS! That is money that people literally sometimes <i>throw away</i>, drop on the street and don't pick up, lose in the floor of their car. . . I could go on and on. $5,000! And we have about 25 cups still out there! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When we started this adoption process, Katie's family sponsorship grant through Reece's Rainbow had $87.49. Some kids have $10,000 plus. We didn't pick her because her grant total was appealing - we picked her because she is supposed to be our girl. We didn't have the amazing amount of money needed to adopt her in our savings account. We had a modest amount, but nowhere near the total. Chris' exact words to me were, "I want to do this, but how will we afford it?" We are a single income family with three children, one of whom has special needs and therapies not covered by our health insurance. We certainly make enough money and have a lifestyle that is conducive to one income, but not one income when we are also looking at spending tens of thousands of dollars on adoption. I told Chris that if we were on the same page with the adoption, not to worry about the money - I would make it happen somehow. And we will! We are so close I can taste it. In less than almost exactly 4 months, from August to December, we raised over $20,000. I am so proud of our family and friends. When I think about it I get butterflies in my stomach. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And now we will get to meet our girl, in what could be just a few short weeks. If you have Coins for Katie change you have collected for us, we would like to have you send it to us either through our FSP link on Reece's Rainbow, through paypal directly to us, or by a check in the mail so we have that money for our first trip. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you so much for helping us bring Katie home!</div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-4976275760952696832012-01-25T20:57:00.000-06:002012-01-25T20:57:05.527-06:00Jack's Gigi BlanketMy mom made David a blanket before he was born that we call his Gigi blanket. It is his favorite possession. Like, save from a burning building favorite. It has had numerous repairs and has had to almost be completely remade because David has loved it so much. She made Henry a big blanket that fits his twin bed. He loves his as well, and he gets upset if it's not on his bed and is in the wash. Jack got his Gigi blanket for his birthday. He wasn't nearly as excited about it as I was, but he said the next morning that sleeping with it on his bed was like snuggling Gigi all night long. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQW0jowmqSlad_daF3Wmi6arN14Gi1sak5qMamKXGUOkN_7uU5vOxDIKssCiLrgyxi7URQa_5ZbdQEGhvuqbFpOQluWJhKHzfKxxwY1gzVgO0lc1gCH4h_4GgbvUkv1YbY7zo1tMxmWuk/s1600/gigi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQW0jowmqSlad_daF3Wmi6arN14Gi1sak5qMamKXGUOkN_7uU5vOxDIKssCiLrgyxi7URQa_5ZbdQEGhvuqbFpOQluWJhKHzfKxxwY1gzVgO0lc1gCH4h_4GgbvUkv1YbY7zo1tMxmWuk/s400/gigi.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the detail of his quilt. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the puzzle pattern!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zuwAlg20_f2f1mrrNuIShdHrPcS2DvCW6Uq92Ifd8qiRb1Ki3hosWENx_I3jDLi0rlVS0qFuJrps2IIWbMWWB6t83J_Xkk0iTIw3Phh3_x838gRnEFiEttdlQDtr34Ve93GR-LdLKZE/s1600/gigi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zuwAlg20_f2f1mrrNuIShdHrPcS2DvCW6Uq92Ifd8qiRb1Ki3hosWENx_I3jDLi0rlVS0qFuJrps2IIWbMWWB6t83J_Xkk0iTIw3Phh3_x838gRnEFiEttdlQDtr34Ve93GR-LdLKZE/s400/gigi2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My favorite part?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The signature.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqU3c8OsbcBEHPw4J0kjLo5nrc-M0y7pt3d00eGAk9aZ4RsnA0bhTpd125dJ2WIUMMdZKHSrP3o3xzRiObtb1G0OKi4DaCvEzOwqQz55aW8brGdjQ4Alf0b9YJdz9BYUdk_YysfBdJlss/s1600/gigi3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqU3c8OsbcBEHPw4J0kjLo5nrc-M0y7pt3d00eGAk9aZ4RsnA0bhTpd125dJ2WIUMMdZKHSrP3o3xzRiObtb1G0OKi4DaCvEzOwqQz55aW8brGdjQ4Alf0b9YJdz9BYUdk_YysfBdJlss/s400/gigi3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you Gigi!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-81084418926477397542012-01-22T08:15:00.001-06:002012-01-22T08:15:12.942-06:00Turkey MeatballsWe had spaghetti and meatballs for Jack's birthday dinner, and the meatballs were my favorite that I've ever made. Meatballs are one go-to meat dish that all of my boys will eat. I like to keep some frozen so we can just pull them out and add a veggie for an instant, quick dinner. I'm glad I made lots of these yesterday, so we've got a big freezer bag of them ready to go. (Hopefully when Chris and I <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/2012/01/some-quick-updates.html">travel to Katie's country</a>!) This recipe is quick and easy, low cost and few ingredients. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
<br />
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">lb ground turkey</dd></dl>
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">cup bread crumbs (I like to use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs or panko)</dd></dl>
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1/4</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">cup milk</dd></dl>
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">teaspoon salt</dd></dl>
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">teaspoon Worcestershire sauce</dd></dl>
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1/4</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">teaspoon pepper</dd></dl>
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">small onion, finely chopped (1/4 cup) (<i>I omit this and add some onion powder because Christopher hates onions.)</i></dd></dl>
<dl class="ingredient" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">
<dt style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px;">1</dt>
<dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">egg</dd><dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br /></dd><dd style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Heat oven to 400 degrees. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil - spray foil with cooking spray. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients. Shape into balls (about the size of a ping pong ball). Bake for 20 minutes. </dd></dl>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-56440836996543224812012-01-22T08:04:00.002-06:002012-01-22T08:06:39.990-06:00Happy 4th Birthday Jack!<div style="text-align: center;">
How is possible that this little smooshy has turned four years old? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJoSi2q1FpK2QUqMIwlbkLbe4eZ4tCooYdJVreeaNxtwvZE-kkYlhZDM7zKjo_2yeXYqKT_-ABSYSibHv6kZjh3UwF_hyphenhyphenvNO3gzzU7BtqZuAawFP-LJJw7xcguVcufftmPZ0ASqrTwqYw/s1600/Jack+Ryan+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJoSi2q1FpK2QUqMIwlbkLbe4eZ4tCooYdJVreeaNxtwvZE-kkYlhZDM7zKjo_2yeXYqKT_-ABSYSibHv6kZjh3UwF_hyphenhyphenvNO3gzzU7BtqZuAawFP-LJJw7xcguVcufftmPZ0ASqrTwqYw/s320/Jack+Ryan+040.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Look at those tiny babies!</i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We celebrated on his actual birthday with a couple of gifts and a small cake. He was very, very excited to be 4. I'm not sure what he thought would happen once he turned 4, but he couldn't wait.<br /><br /><span id="goog_2077879290"></span><span id="goog_2077879291"></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfmhVco2fmaQVasmrpysvplnGvvWvk-ThiLGW00PkoFYsPzcWVEUl4KI1ViRLjv7jhzK3RNOOFe7zF-hVFeFNpkHrpMCsNK6ce42hK1FZ46mueS0N9OHlpEjw6MJWuRI-_mdqnS5hIWpY/s1600/IMG_0369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfmhVco2fmaQVasmrpysvplnGvvWvk-ThiLGW00PkoFYsPzcWVEUl4KI1ViRLjv7jhzK3RNOOFe7zF-hVFeFNpkHrpMCsNK6ce42hK1FZ46mueS0N9OHlpEjw6MJWuRI-_mdqnS5hIWpY/s400/IMG_0369.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yvj8dlF9BkHwJhmjqqVULz9GZ6oIhnmJKZVgt8E04Tu1IUVK7D_uXrpzCywB6y2moasoSTGXC_BafOne2W-svLzmt_wh4BUx5STgyixjNnA60PR2J92M4Ta2FSh1kCN3ymB7bESFEKc/s1600/IMG_0370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yvj8dlF9BkHwJhmjqqVULz9GZ6oIhnmJKZVgt8E04Tu1IUVK7D_uXrpzCywB6y2moasoSTGXC_BafOne2W-svLzmt_wh4BUx5STgyixjNnA60PR2J92M4Ta2FSh1kCN3ymB7bESFEKc/s400/IMG_0370.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8CKhoZBMUrxZNnMcdIPpchzXW6yKxPv7moaHsJPq5yAj9_noRz-P9WLAzxbstF11OV4zIHypLufo_imvnAi4wq71QYqfeDpyKbOnePRdaPj4fmeygGAgoeknRv36RaKIyLz6FTARutg/s1600/IMG_0371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8CKhoZBMUrxZNnMcdIPpchzXW6yKxPv7moaHsJPq5yAj9_noRz-P9WLAzxbstF11OV4zIHypLufo_imvnAi4wq71QYqfeDpyKbOnePRdaPj4fmeygGAgoeknRv36RaKIyLz6FTARutg/s400/IMG_0371.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had his birthday party yesterday. It was the cheapest, easiest, lowest stress party I have ever done. And I loved it. We just had our family over, and Jack and Henry both told me it was the best birthday party ever. We had spaghetti and meatballs, salad, and yummy bread, and I made a chocolate pirate cake. We had some balloons and just enjoyed each other's company. No ponies. No crazy invitations. Not millions of children running around. No mess to clean up after. It was wonderful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjMgqc30oNf0z-rm-z58zRcgLaeazCOZ-eGawgc6hmbV_AsTccIRt06hzS9qmFIPlgazGy5W4UCYjkHt2o2GH9fjLxl-gStA6IJjRhqqF4W8prOx_3XweP2QOvynk3I53xJKLvB7xP50/s1600/IMG_0380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjMgqc30oNf0z-rm-z58zRcgLaeazCOZ-eGawgc6hmbV_AsTccIRt06hzS9qmFIPlgazGy5W4UCYjkHt2o2GH9fjLxl-gStA6IJjRhqqF4W8prOx_3XweP2QOvynk3I53xJKLvB7xP50/s320/IMG_0380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Henry made a sign that says, "Happy 4th Brithday!"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2cP_KbkS6rBfETxHCsUhXHw1EUKnWMH6L3nsRc_4C99CIhvh6JxqBwoFCEyBwkqUGmPfUJRzL1lYcDwYn0rHiKaJazZ9nYQrO4A6nCZfoFugWffW9NCrLQUmpsut3-vIPcOxbtmNgUY/s1600/IMG_0381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2cP_KbkS6rBfETxHCsUhXHw1EUKnWMH6L3nsRc_4C99CIhvh6JxqBwoFCEyBwkqUGmPfUJRzL1lYcDwYn0rHiKaJazZ9nYQrO4A6nCZfoFugWffW9NCrLQUmpsut3-vIPcOxbtmNgUY/s400/IMG_0381.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He also painted Jack a picture of Jack. It is perfect, and we will hang it next to Jack's bed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CARTISEb8kKDBtgFBJw-RVOaN4K2GH7MrDGALX7d5_HnGVHrLL28mb3Gv2BQguETT4MUf7yClNGtYwJ0I7hdDxkeUUjFVBd5k-lGU-jO_2lJmhmOnqBiyoq62s9xDJOZ8t_73qLFsgM/s1600/IMG_0388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CARTISEb8kKDBtgFBJw-RVOaN4K2GH7MrDGALX7d5_HnGVHrLL28mb3Gv2BQguETT4MUf7yClNGtYwJ0I7hdDxkeUUjFVBd5k-lGU-jO_2lJmhmOnqBiyoq62s9xDJOZ8t_73qLFsgM/s400/IMG_0388.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our decorations were just balloons that we hung all over the house and on the porch outside. Balloons make everything feel like a party.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCFTqylzCvcjcIjvOPD06zJBz-DmAwZ0_8Q6PTgHwkuzEDHriYTxM_8MW3i2OBDQNNgdQ05i7SmoBotdAuixq-GjnOaPPzN6Vn6Ohv-jdKx9yVAM2RvYP1X_zDn-gnt4IoG7Eb-Ovph4/s1600/IMG_0384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCFTqylzCvcjcIjvOPD06zJBz-DmAwZ0_8Q6PTgHwkuzEDHriYTxM_8MW3i2OBDQNNgdQ05i7SmoBotdAuixq-GjnOaPPzN6Vn6Ohv-jdKx9yVAM2RvYP1X_zDn-gnt4IoG7Eb-Ovph4/s400/IMG_0384.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jack is big into Pirates of the Caribbean right now, so David dressed as a pirate. That's his mean pirate face. Can't you tell?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Wsxdzk64wvMKWCnYwMutVRPNQSB6oH1lC4VU53WoVQjMrvZIx2f6aXpxoQAvBJAEzgcqHgJX9TslwCd_XTV5NlAJt-6ML8remXvC0Yj9FL1Cfiyu9-CQfQ4cCWpp1HMmX64UKpKYd-g/s1600/IMG_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Wsxdzk64wvMKWCnYwMutVRPNQSB6oH1lC4VU53WoVQjMrvZIx2f6aXpxoQAvBJAEzgcqHgJX9TslwCd_XTV5NlAJt-6ML8remXvC0Yj9FL1Cfiyu9-CQfQ4cCWpp1HMmX64UKpKYd-g/s400/IMG_0386.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made a "pirate" cake. It was the easiest cake I've ever made. I used toys we had on the top. The "sand" is graham cracker crumbs. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRz9bBO2KZUhts6DyPH-rZrIwOJEfxShyphenhyphenOOlbUgeblvFVQuOVQfDUXE_fxU_lDmLrC9YRRby7qKfeKFDXmBuhPofCeDVb-AXqIKh9lYGEZQCTnzRIdoFxiC-ObFmN41jcYU7GJ8enK7FI/s1600/IMG_0389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRz9bBO2KZUhts6DyPH-rZrIwOJEfxShyphenhyphenOOlbUgeblvFVQuOVQfDUXE_fxU_lDmLrC9YRRby7qKfeKFDXmBuhPofCeDVb-AXqIKh9lYGEZQCTnzRIdoFxiC-ObFmN41jcYU7GJ8enK7FI/s400/IMG_0389.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0TEYt0tm2ypO6X3CmOrQ2ZR03OGp2IslaFr_t8Aw09Az7aL4oSVP3jVFv2lFjcE-UdGOqnJxHIpmkbNCToCaFi1XvopT-Aujl_hrIu27aLA5RHwY3s7PdH780Zr0GorUP9XUGU6WIOTw/s1600/IMG_0390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0TEYt0tm2ypO6X3CmOrQ2ZR03OGp2IslaFr_t8Aw09Az7aL4oSVP3jVFv2lFjcE-UdGOqnJxHIpmkbNCToCaFi1XvopT-Aujl_hrIu27aLA5RHwY3s7PdH780Zr0GorUP9XUGU6WIOTw/s400/IMG_0390.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzp6FhdunBFkIo88M_2HmllwfveFR9BmJEw4Kxd3XTVX1QrlFyhNo1_n-SCoWywDgkro8ycy2SIICbki2FWnvL_IARseyTezTUO6AfvLpBaIT_M9grtke3Htrm-SyCmq3ELnBF-u_9c6o/s1600/IMG_0391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzp6FhdunBFkIo88M_2HmllwfveFR9BmJEw4Kxd3XTVX1QrlFyhNo1_n-SCoWywDgkro8ycy2SIICbki2FWnvL_IARseyTezTUO6AfvLpBaIT_M9grtke3Htrm-SyCmq3ELnBF-u_9c6o/s400/IMG_0391.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWi1psc7_e82aLNVWGXAnvmKxg1EjwnooSZk7zqkC6wxeWYt5cCN__Gzhyg9q0pwmD2NsNSDRyPPJNcUA_Ev-7x3e-ozLNojB2BvSrZfI4wCNXoSeoirU4EKnpY7TDjzxe3i7vcNlLi_o/s1600/IMG_0392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWi1psc7_e82aLNVWGXAnvmKxg1EjwnooSZk7zqkC6wxeWYt5cCN__Gzhyg9q0pwmD2NsNSDRyPPJNcUA_Ev-7x3e-ozLNojB2BvSrZfI4wCNXoSeoirU4EKnpY7TDjzxe3i7vcNlLi_o/s400/IMG_0392.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was my favorite gift! A Gigi blanket from my mom. It's fabulous!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKt1sq0LNwO5zFHcp8EOIWmMvdRHY-2ikP5J6B3dPaLRq1LDL8IVTa8EQqAyj5F_uVM9i3YuvNBAs6fhb9pfFcxYlP2h36-j8S002yTuVQBa8P6soGu_LzN-W8BG4b2ef84WqXIBhm7H0/s1600/IMG_0393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKt1sq0LNwO5zFHcp8EOIWmMvdRHY-2ikP5J6B3dPaLRq1LDL8IVTa8EQqAyj5F_uVM9i3YuvNBAs6fhb9pfFcxYlP2h36-j8S002yTuVQBa8P6soGu_LzN-W8BG4b2ef84WqXIBhm7H0/s400/IMG_0393.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHvJi7wxhS-3-TBsYUfyd9aEyJSR5hcw8LLzcVSIhSmTlEP0ZFYG6VTrCQQeN-f6qRIF8q6EcY9mX1TZXPh-0-SaLsKrVznqufq5SCy_on4mObf7rUfsd6iABNuRXQRAGkoK6xBN7jcw/s1600/IMG_0394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHvJi7wxhS-3-TBsYUfyd9aEyJSR5hcw8LLzcVSIhSmTlEP0ZFYG6VTrCQQeN-f6qRIF8q6EcY9mX1TZXPh-0-SaLsKrVznqufq5SCy_on4mObf7rUfsd6iABNuRXQRAGkoK6xBN7jcw/s400/IMG_0394.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRt1lY0v7eD56dineeOHxIXtcqU0oPl3no4XOGj9VIhapumFt0cc1U1W3p5jTIF1up9oRe-fWKoMrf_7LlpofOxzLlqH62DqSuDupUO9Wv0LpgBmKCb1XmgYKsYUfhU0iMSuzZy0dUSo/s1600/IMG_0396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRt1lY0v7eD56dineeOHxIXtcqU0oPl3no4XOGj9VIhapumFt0cc1U1W3p5jTIF1up9oRe-fWKoMrf_7LlpofOxzLlqH62DqSuDupUO9Wv0LpgBmKCb1XmgYKsYUfhU0iMSuzZy0dUSo/s400/IMG_0396.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwuBi1KxfdBIOHSymOazMuuJdEi1sVQf5o0Vra7le5TU_VRocmm3Vqjml-OgXjwfz3EQ6mpDbkkDZBP3erm68lG5dCvJrxVOZYfws3oZHOGPUNX8vjQoUW33fsuX4wwD95MB8xl58nN10/s1600/IMG_0399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwuBi1KxfdBIOHSymOazMuuJdEi1sVQf5o0Vra7le5TU_VRocmm3Vqjml-OgXjwfz3EQ6mpDbkkDZBP3erm68lG5dCvJrxVOZYfws3oZHOGPUNX8vjQoUW33fsuX4wwD95MB8xl58nN10/s400/IMG_0399.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2m5RlNP2CHfV7fRJaJrNy_bMgKvuu9u_PURG7GVMzSdA0G7XnGJ6s7UuOEZAfOXeplU2lE-1BkGG3Ruu6Vbim_IqRCIOiHJrh3k8NS1kyRWbVuBS2knnp-Uiedn5tKSu1Vd0sSdfJVPs/s1600/IMG_0400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2m5RlNP2CHfV7fRJaJrNy_bMgKvuu9u_PURG7GVMzSdA0G7XnGJ6s7UuOEZAfOXeplU2lE-1BkGG3Ruu6Vbim_IqRCIOiHJrh3k8NS1kyRWbVuBS2knnp-Uiedn5tKSu1Vd0sSdfJVPs/s400/IMG_0400.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I LOVE this photo!<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Jack had a great birthday. <br />I cannot wait to see what 4 years old brings for this little wild man!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-38150485029484991242012-01-20T20:54:00.000-06:002012-01-20T20:54:36.613-06:00It's Breakfast Time!<div style="text-align: center;">
Next up on our remodel list? Our breakfast room. This is what it looks like now.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCSSv-ssR3RiOligbd4LMbPvbbN3DVi2WKwNRsWnFutyA8B08xIvUCJfrPIOz8TV0D3ZaTb7OZui_qN-iB6ZFUBnFBSC9ZOi65XhwILszgy8ozw8PVBnhHxaMhcViNrSXQ3bYT_hJQsU/s1600/breakfast+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCSSv-ssR3RiOligbd4LMbPvbbN3DVi2WKwNRsWnFutyA8B08xIvUCJfrPIOz8TV0D3ZaTb7OZui_qN-iB6ZFUBnFBSC9ZOi65XhwILszgy8ozw8PVBnhHxaMhcViNrSXQ3bYT_hJQsU/s400/breakfast+room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We haven't painted since we moved in. We have <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-breakfast-room-light.html">replaced the light fixture</a> and painted the globe lights. We <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/05/our-new-door.html">replaced the back door</a> also. We have also had a leaky roof. This caused some issues with the drywall, so that was all the motivation we needed to do some remodeling. So these are some things I'm thinking of doing</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpV8eGFLZ7llz42sHN4MiLicWs8t9XEG_jNdLy6Dsa-H4mfNlByzsIMSKqFgfRuuvsz2YqEfU6kvOOcR8LI2OQy6dimhHzpMoQMolKIrCLzd2fRZpSkoSKZTgevXUmrS5BD6Rzb2GIUg0/s1600/board+and+batton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpV8eGFLZ7llz42sHN4MiLicWs8t9XEG_jNdLy6Dsa-H4mfNlByzsIMSKqFgfRuuvsz2YqEfU6kvOOcR8LI2OQy6dimhHzpMoQMolKIrCLzd2fRZpSkoSKZTgevXUmrS5BD6Rzb2GIUg0/s400/board+and+batton.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love this board and batten with the molding ledge. Our ceiling in the breakfast room is bead board, so we will either do bead board or a board and batten on the walls. I want it to be about four feet tall, and we have an eight inch baseboard, so it will be high. The ceiling in that room is twelve feet at the highest (it's slanted) so I think the scale needs to be tall. I love this grey color too, but not for the breakfast room. I would love to do this color in our master bedroom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3uE2tOcR22Zy6VdcVvUJKD-IzucysAGZAVJ3AVYLxEDVmfNwz8zjCoRKao_m5-ZxVQiV1RP2LeFd_FdBLX8Okl0wJA1_jWMnol3z5w2XfrV-S8unPHwSu1h8wPmPsXsLh441RsgEEHs/s1600/color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3uE2tOcR22Zy6VdcVvUJKD-IzucysAGZAVJ3AVYLxEDVmfNwz8zjCoRKao_m5-ZxVQiV1RP2LeFd_FdBLX8Okl0wJA1_jWMnol3z5w2XfrV-S8unPHwSu1h8wPmPsXsLh441RsgEEHs/s400/color.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love, love, love this color. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUXQxUNYfhUFq-HcOEtO-OOCnmZlvjd4nRLT2m9hFMsZx_TGTclXvEWa2e_tq2iy3zb1u13Tp_2RP0JoV3O11Gk1ju-GgUusxCqOK_XdVckIP8-1TrtMIAglLV9PCMUa-gZZGqtBFzcg/s1600/color2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUXQxUNYfhUFq-HcOEtO-OOCnmZlvjd4nRLT2m9hFMsZx_TGTclXvEWa2e_tq2iy3zb1u13Tp_2RP0JoV3O11Gk1ju-GgUusxCqOK_XdVckIP8-1TrtMIAglLV9PCMUa-gZZGqtBFzcg/s400/color2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I like this one too, but I think it's a little too celery-ish. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCzNHU1ToxPQ79zo4XqoCoxYweEEEf-tIarDjlRWCBWJfTywdRhfgkSJ79FJ3wy58lprvXYn0CBOTZkIgggtvuHmrjOa2V2Yhg8zZ3qiW8GuKleFALgJxtkC9s9C9QGDFOPTTznN-ngk/s1600/banquette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCzNHU1ToxPQ79zo4XqoCoxYweEEEf-tIarDjlRWCBWJfTywdRhfgkSJ79FJ3wy58lprvXYn0CBOTZkIgggtvuHmrjOa2V2Yhg8zZ3qiW8GuKleFALgJxtkC9s9C9QGDFOPTTznN-ngk/s320/banquette.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I would love to remove two of our chairs and put an upholstered banquette piece under the windows. We have a perfect couch in my office that I can have if we find a replacement for the lobby. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaqzPKv8vx_qa1BbQcmKzVLZ7q074uciMU5twZKVw52FvqFPdT40uomUgqAAlYxlNgwmhHOo89hU3FcwE_ZxNL1cn_p8m2IWNnwOITXozoi6bj9zEwUr4CzqOPpLr0gl_wAPizWYENu4/s1600/banquette2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaqzPKv8vx_qa1BbQcmKzVLZ7q074uciMU5twZKVw52FvqFPdT40uomUgqAAlYxlNgwmhHOo89hU3FcwE_ZxNL1cn_p8m2IWNnwOITXozoi6bj9zEwUr4CzqOPpLr0gl_wAPizWYENu4/s400/banquette2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the look of this. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8W2cjxAGDz50hVGNul5wJDcG3LjyifIF4VX8CYyMZrCMcZSiDoMI9xifze7DcoSB0P306-zl1_8pa2OOCt6M6Uf5tVS3cxLVvOo4rwgIs15xWpk4BqYywI8YC6ta9ngGoTnUkrxlw3I/s1600/framed+recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8W2cjxAGDz50hVGNul5wJDcG3LjyifIF4VX8CYyMZrCMcZSiDoMI9xifze7DcoSB0P306-zl1_8pa2OOCt6M6Uf5tVS3cxLVvOo4rwgIs15xWpk4BqYywI8YC6ta9ngGoTnUkrxlw3I/s400/framed+recipes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I adore this - framed family recipes. I have several of my grandmother and great grandmother's cookbooks with hand written recipes. I will be doing this.</div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-31897741862322038082012-01-01T08:18:00.002-06:002012-01-01T08:18:53.461-06:00House Goals for 2012You may remember <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/01/house-to-do-list.html">this post</a> where I listed all of our to-do things for our house. Um, it's a long freaking list. Let's review and see what's been done. I've added new goals (re-wrote immediate goals) in red, which I hope to finish this year:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Kitchen</u></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Paint</span></li>
<li>Backsplash</li>
<li>Install garbage disposal</li>
<li>Under cabinet lighting</li>
<li><strike>Secure toe kick trim</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Finish restoring island</span></li>
<li><strike>Flip laundry room door to open into Laudry room</strike></li>
<li>Stainless fridge?</li>
<li>Farm sink?</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Breakfast Room</u></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Install bead board and trim</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Repair cracks in wall</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Paint</span></li>
<li>Paint hutch</li>
<li>Farm table</li>
<li><strike>Repair threshold</strike></li>
<li><strike>Replace chandelier light fixture</strike></li>
<li><strike>Paint globe light fixtures</strike></li>
<li>Repair/Replace cracked window</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Fix leak in roof. Again.</span></li>
<li><strike>Replace back door?</strike></li>
<li><strike>Add storm or screen door</strike></li>
<li>Upholstered seating on one side of table?</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Living room</u></div>
<ul>
<li><strike>Weather strip for door</strike></li>
<li><strike>Paint vents</strike></li>
<li><strike>Repair phone jack</strike></li>
<li><strike>Hide cords</strike></li>
<li><strike>Touch up crown molding</strike></li>
<li>Drop leaf table</li>
<li>Find another drum table for the other side of the couch</li>
<li><strike>Reupholster chair cushions. Or just get rid of the couch.</strike></li>
<li><strike>Replace coffee table with ottoman or more appropriate table.</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Family tree art/project </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Hang silver trays</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Dining room</u></div>
<ul>
<li><strike>Paint vent covers</strike></li>
<li>Install crowm molding</li>
<li>Rug?</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Recover chairs</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Replace light fixture</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Master Bedroom</u></div>
<ul>
<li>Paint</li>
<li>Build out closet</li>
<li>New bedding</li>
<li>Paint wardrobe</li>
<li>Artwork</li>
<li>Do something with the fireplace surround. Paint? Strip? Tile?</li>
<li><strike>Repair floor by window</strike></li>
<li>Replace window pane. (Ahem, Chris. . . )</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Entry/Staircase/Computer landing</u></div>
<ul>
<li><strike>Hang mirror or artwork by front door</strike></li>
<li><strike>Reupholster bench. Or get rid of it.</strike></li>
<li>Bookcase under stairs</li>
<li><strike>Paint</strike></li>
<li>Replace doorbell</li>
<li>Small rug for computer area</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Address chandelier. . . clean crystals, replace bulbs, clean fixture without killing myself. Or replace with a larger fixture.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Replace attic ladder with a metal ladder.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Paint ceiling.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Small downstairs hall</u></div>
<ul>
<li><strike>Paint</strike></li>
<li><strike>Make shelving a bookcase</strike></li>
<li><strike>Paint inside wall of bookcase</strike></li>
<li><strike>Replace light fixture</strike></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Playroom</u></div>
<ul>
<li><strike>Paint</strike></li>
<li><strike>New curtains</strike></li>
<li><strike>Organize closet</strike></li>
<li><strike>Clean rug</strike></li>
<li><strike>Recover loveseat</strike> (replaced it instead)</li>
<li><strike>Make/Hang chalkboard</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Add another bookcase or costume storage</span></li>
<li><strike>Hang art display system</strike></li>
<li><strike>Clean out/donate books</strike></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Boys' room</u></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Paint</span></li>
<li><strike>Organize closet</strike></li>
<li><strike>Add a dresser</strike></li>
<li><strike>Hang photos or art</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Update photo collages</span></li>
<li>Matching bedding</li>
<li>Bedskirt for David's bed</li>
<li><strike>Rug?</strike></li>
<li><strike>Hang wall lighting</strike></li>
<li>Replace overhead fixture?</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Guest room</u></div>
<ul>
<li>Address fireplace. Convert to gas? <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">(We've decided to leave it as is right now - I don't think a gas fireplace and a five year old developmentally delayed child are the best combination in a bedroom.)</span></li>
<li>Strip/paint/tile/something fireplace surround. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">We cleaned this up, and I think we're leaving it as is for now. We need to secure the screen, and call it a day.</span></li>
<li><strike>Hang mirror or art over fireplace</strike></li>
<li><strike>Clean transom</strike></li>
<li><strike>Paint</strike></li>
<li><strike>Curtains</strike></li>
<li><strike>New bedding?</strike></li>
<li><strike>Rug?</strike></li>
<li><strike>Art?</strike></li>
<li><strike>Closet shelving and hanging system</strike></li>
<li><strike>Lampshade for black lamp</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Cushion or pillows for window seat</span></li>
<li>Add crown molding</li>
<li><strike>Fix loose outlets</strike></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Laundry room</u></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Cabinets over washer and dryer</span></li>
<li><strike>Add a cabinet for linen storage</strike></li>
<li>Paint</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Hanger for brooms, etc.</span></li>
<li><strike>Reroute pump to outside</strike></li>
<li>Install back door</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Clean/paint light fixtures</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Patio</u></div>
<ul>
<li><strike>Rug</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Figure out the light. Make it work.</span></li>
<li>Paint concrete?</li>
<li><strike>Rework the seating to make it more of an outdoor room</strike></li>
<li><strike>New patio furniture</strike></li>
<li><strike>Paint the flower stand. Or love it the way it is.</strike></li>
<li>Paint candle holder/lantern thingy</li>
<li>Add a stair?</li>
<li><strike>Add concrete planters?</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Hang flower holder</span>s</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Window box</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Exterior</u></div>
<ul>
<li>Side the remainder of the house. Yikes.</li>
<li>Paint.</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Repair trim above front windows</span></li>
<li>Replace upstairs windows</li>
<li>Gutter/French drain system</li>
<li>Reinsulate crawl space</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Repair loose roof panel(s)</span></li>
<li><strike>Pressure wash porch</strike></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Paint porch floor, stairs, and rails</span></li>
<li>Re-do porch columns?</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Replace front light</span></li>
<li>Clean weeds off of front of house</li>
<li>Make crawl space opening larger</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Clean/paint lattice under porch. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Trim out lattice</span></li>
<li>Add back door to laundry room</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Yard</u></div>
<ul>
<li>Fence back yard</li>
<li>Cut down tree?</li>
<li>Massive yard clean up</li>
<li>Remove kennel after fencing is put up</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><strike>Weed killer on front walk</strike> This will be an on-going project.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Prune bushes</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Plant a garden</span></li>
<li>Add two more bushes along the side of the porch</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Rip out three small ugly bushes near patio.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Rip out two little trees in island area.</span></li>
<li>Electricity to the shed?</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Dream List/Far in the Future</u></div>
<ul>
<li>Build a detached garage</li>
<li>Finish the attic and add another 1000+ square feet</li>
<li>Add a second bathroom</li>
</ul>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-89105560129836232362011-12-31T16:15:00.002-06:002012-01-02T09:02:43.257-06:002011 - The Highlight Reel<div style="text-align: center;">
2011 was a great year for the Simpsons!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's take a look at the highlight reel, shall we?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In January Jack turned <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/01/happy-birthday-jack.html">three and had a superhero party</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SoLnk9MmsYDik1ejhK4PUGY7qqlfEmUSkjBDOh0eg-THn6hpo0JtQiaoT84Wx9lNcaA_XCwcdB4bQMgG9iUp39e49lGMZMX8x5_fruJJ1H6461k8R2PKkQUIJrs43stPUA0-eQfIZ-o/s1600/Jack+bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SoLnk9MmsYDik1ejhK4PUGY7qqlfEmUSkjBDOh0eg-THn6hpo0JtQiaoT84Wx9lNcaA_XCwcdB4bQMgG9iUp39e49lGMZMX8x5_fruJJ1H6461k8R2PKkQUIJrs43stPUA0-eQfIZ-o/s400/Jack+bday.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXmgNUuMNYmpOvfdmJvLKZZitSPepcABLVFOb7QGHZ3RRRIQePXc80aPcH9Q0cnMOW1Y0JwTZAh4ygV9AhkgxIkU9yPF64yP7ec4mxoVrAB7NshzZHfVbx7z4B5lLjWStdk3wThFP3x0/s1600/jack+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXmgNUuMNYmpOvfdmJvLKZZitSPepcABLVFOb7QGHZ3RRRIQePXc80aPcH9Q0cnMOW1Y0JwTZAh4ygV9AhkgxIkU9yPF64yP7ec4mxoVrAB7NshzZHfVbx7z4B5lLjWStdk3wThFP3x0/s400/jack+cake.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also changed our breakfast room <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-breakfast-room-light.html">light from brothel to classy</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnmFtwMg6nc/Tv-DiUS7FvI/AAAAAAAAEWY/CXu2Bg6ZmtA/s1600/light+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnmFtwMg6nc/Tv-DiUS7FvI/AAAAAAAAEWY/CXu2Bg6ZmtA/s400/light+before.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57WkzQLxkPdubNqG_rfG3Q9HP0IJE0a-1DiR3xt5z7n-eOr30RI8L3grCQzGTFQ782w-6ywFxls6W2SD9FPVB5q-NETz3gicvH39ToFnzj7qLRYqU4m9zok-dbfZUOe1zPynWMKsCpq0/s1600/light+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57WkzQLxkPdubNqG_rfG3Q9HP0IJE0a-1DiR3xt5z7n-eOr30RI8L3grCQzGTFQ782w-6ywFxls6W2SD9FPVB5q-NETz3gicvH39ToFnzj7qLRYqU4m9zok-dbfZUOe1zPynWMKsCpq0/s400/light+after.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In February, Chris and I took a <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/02/ikea-meets-playroom.html">trip to Ikea in Atlanta </a>and <a href="http://ikea.com/">Ikea</a>-fied our playroom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8TYzttN8Q8/Tv-FCHLhUQI/AAAAAAAAEWk/bWaVW0jWszQ/s1600/ikea+playroom+feb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8TYzttN8Q8/Tv-FCHLhUQI/AAAAAAAAEWk/bWaVW0jWszQ/s400/ikea+playroom+feb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In March, David turned seven.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That is still unbelievable to me, and now he's almost eight!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1kgmbsaigFU/Tv-FbWuCc4I/AAAAAAAAEWw/AOTpmz4NNGM/s1600/David+7%252C+March.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1kgmbsaigFU/Tv-FbWuCc4I/AAAAAAAAEWw/AOTpmz4NNGM/s400/David+7%252C+March.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also redid our <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/03/hallway-re-do.html">hallway bookcase</a> so it's more like a built in than a shoved in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLIPuYHVUmtxobA0b83kMwlY87EibMwnZyn7x3h_8nY8N_JhFLRP0Eqa5bqrcVrPe2p1L5HJVvRXyWWo-fJ5a9LsIp4Vs3XNOdw18NDa-fPPIKiawNGN5pM_D_hPpoV2cxy4M4gh0NRA/s1600/hall+bookcase%252C+march.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLIPuYHVUmtxobA0b83kMwlY87EibMwnZyn7x3h_8nY8N_JhFLRP0Eqa5bqrcVrPe2p1L5HJVvRXyWWo-fJ5a9LsIp4Vs3XNOdw18NDa-fPPIKiawNGN5pM_D_hPpoV2cxy4M4gh0NRA/s400/hall+bookcase%252C+march.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also replaced the hall light with a fantastic light that used to hang in my great grandmother's house in New Jersey.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkVqMcjq4iGokGcBP-OFKtJA5qztUDiP_cqtb9sH5JY_QdVr3mw0_8oYL6k4ZaW5mfQwJiDEOKuA1Gd4RE8QBse-w6gPYUMkH0jiEPE-nnAm1yoo0oI4Q2lMgxVTzTrG1amIDDUpyiaM/s1600/hall+light%252C+March.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkVqMcjq4iGokGcBP-OFKtJA5qztUDiP_cqtb9sH5JY_QdVr3mw0_8oYL6k4ZaW5mfQwJiDEOKuA1Gd4RE8QBse-w6gPYUMkH0jiEPE-nnAm1yoo0oI4Q2lMgxVTzTrG1amIDDUpyiaM/s400/hall+light%252C+March.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In April, Henry turned six.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Again, seriously? Six? Didn't I just bring him home from the hospital?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxXY7RcZtmU/Tv-F2HgrJmI/AAAAAAAAEW8/mwliS1mx22A/s1600/Henry+6%252C+April.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxXY7RcZtmU/Tv-F2HgrJmI/AAAAAAAAEW8/mwliS1mx22A/s400/Henry+6%252C+April.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/04/david-and-henrys-birthday-extravaganza.html">We had a joint birthday party for David and Henry</a>.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our first joint party ever, and probably not our last.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDsHtIfJXOqYc41cIRJFiagI-ErvbcytZ-fez3JsczyxmLazvvPVeL6rCDYH6e2yRt0S_s5S0kXINRc3og1VVN4WKTVaTaP4YpzYqhS0sNfxwD5Px43t8ou8n4470ZbXS6rtIBtOoUCg/s1600/Birthday+party%252C+April.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDsHtIfJXOqYc41cIRJFiagI-ErvbcytZ-fez3JsczyxmLazvvPVeL6rCDYH6e2yRt0S_s5S0kXINRc3og1VVN4WKTVaTaP4YpzYqhS0sNfxwD5Px43t8ou8n4470ZbXS6rtIBtOoUCg/s400/Birthday+party%252C+April.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In May, we <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/05/our-new-door.html">replaced our back door</a> with a new one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-32W1tNyj7dw/Tv-G2-7SbsI/AAAAAAAAEXs/ftDAuxZc3iY/s1600/Door%252C+May.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-32W1tNyj7dw/Tv-G2-7SbsI/AAAAAAAAEXs/ftDAuxZc3iY/s400/Door%252C+May.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also got <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/05/update-on-sweet-david.html">two scary (at the time) diagnoses </a>about David, and started seeing our amazing Ms. Dana, which was the start to a new way of life for him and really for all of us. We've all come a long way since then. In a good way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/05/random-house-stuff.html">painted some of the playroom</a>, but I wasn't brave enough to paint the whole thing! I'm really glad I didn't, because I love it with just one wall done.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDYddy2qDkGOkqLsT0y2MnVNeisEOW0256ywVOv-fpEmLJj9WxnClTQiBPfo6kg8AHQEEe0GXKul5Jnu1IuDdQvhln6cTkXw3mPDGGc-GA5GERMt3gPRdqV5mGv9PwrqshjERRNJ4ZoqA/s1600/playroom%252C+may.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDYddy2qDkGOkqLsT0y2MnVNeisEOW0256ywVOv-fpEmLJj9WxnClTQiBPfo6kg8AHQEEe0GXKul5Jnu1IuDdQvhln6cTkXw3mPDGGc-GA5GERMt3gPRdqV5mGv9PwrqshjERRNJ4ZoqA/s400/playroom%252C+may.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/05/random-house-stuff.html">made a chalkboard</a> out of a hideous Goodwill painting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nvNI2EX0ejOS4MyfeHFw6zyX4xT9PcfZCA-QxmQ-xfcIVayKzZ-OePmrrSmhwnLvKf2iuYR5Nbe7ujkRc1j1EWKW2d5S-8qCNIw9cTlqEqWTBhI7WGd8wtIVjRB4xBasnqMLl6y-vm8/s1600/chalkboard%252C+May.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nvNI2EX0ejOS4MyfeHFw6zyX4xT9PcfZCA-QxmQ-xfcIVayKzZ-OePmrrSmhwnLvKf2iuYR5Nbe7ujkRc1j1EWKW2d5S-8qCNIw9cTlqEqWTBhI7WGd8wtIVjRB4xBasnqMLl6y-vm8/s400/chalkboard%252C+May.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In June, we <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/06/weve-been-busy.html">added a screen door</a> to the back door.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIeJY4KILLaySxvUQbOEo6VuLxc9eyAs9VshRmmPQ01TMXss9e78cavdTp7nXDfLuFtJfp5FA2T80SGR3t0RD6OTYfPedOzHcRl_PBcnkMF2mFBkJOYEum2ntbZ8kj8A8MsaczWAinLo/s1600/screen+door%252C+june.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIeJY4KILLaySxvUQbOEo6VuLxc9eyAs9VshRmmPQ01TMXss9e78cavdTp7nXDfLuFtJfp5FA2T80SGR3t0RD6OTYfPedOzHcRl_PBcnkMF2mFBkJOYEum2ntbZ8kj8A8MsaczWAinLo/s400/screen+door%252C+june.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We planted some flowers, and prettied up the patio a bit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46pE524RdtRPRIKx4R3K2mKcEGZfKYIaje1Flb3LZddBAMYJ-CeGDPeh-9SNJm0b2muooeDid64MCcDVDda8PEJXqPSFgPmbPqRliCKapUH2zY0Qs0i7GCSO3wib1an9r5Z25rhgFqZ4/s1600/flowers%252C+june.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46pE524RdtRPRIKx4R3K2mKcEGZfKYIaje1Flb3LZddBAMYJ-CeGDPeh-9SNJm0b2muooeDid64MCcDVDda8PEJXqPSFgPmbPqRliCKapUH2zY0Qs0i7GCSO3wib1an9r5Z25rhgFqZ4/s400/flowers%252C+june.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also replaced the glass in our front door from a so-not-my-style-stained-glass to a simple piece of clear glass.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oyvhcF4FIyg/Tv-IovxImCI/AAAAAAAAEYo/6Qke9Zx4S-c/s1600/door%252C+June.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oyvhcF4FIyg/Tv-IovxImCI/AAAAAAAAEYo/6Qke9Zx4S-c/s400/door%252C+June.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/06/maybe-were-crazy.html">announced that we were starting the process </a>of adopting a little girl! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In July, <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/07/urnt-you-in-love.html">my obsession with our outside plantings continued</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1114505682"></span><span id="goog_1114505683"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q70KeAX2FaA/Tv-Jtl8i-2I/AAAAAAAAEZQ/hdqsTRB3B4k/s1600/ferns%252C+july.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q70KeAX2FaA/Tv-Jtl8i-2I/AAAAAAAAEZQ/hdqsTRB3B4k/s400/ferns%252C+july.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rKgBjA8j00E/Tv-JuHI4qXI/AAAAAAAAEZY/6X-hM4JmULw/s1600/flowers%252C+July.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rKgBjA8j00E/Tv-JuHI4qXI/AAAAAAAAEZY/6X-hM4JmULw/s400/flowers%252C+July.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/07/wilbarger-brushing-protocol.html">started the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol</a>, and have been doing it ever since.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6w753U7NG_Xg6QQvbFMvGqQKVYeWoLM5BwNmXNwFvnqxM-WalMhOmaEfiiwTJBY_BGKeXGydTu5TGn54t4WzAQQNfNbOFVcc34OmIU7-l3PBsI-uRWSon3Gy3HDAUQ2hPKh6W-IxvsxA/s1600/therapressure_therapy_brush%252C+july.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6w753U7NG_Xg6QQvbFMvGqQKVYeWoLM5BwNmXNwFvnqxM-WalMhOmaEfiiwTJBY_BGKeXGydTu5TGn54t4WzAQQNfNbOFVcc34OmIU7-l3PBsI-uRWSon3Gy3HDAUQ2hPKh6W-IxvsxA/s320/therapressure_therapy_brush%252C+july.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also started our adoption blog, <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/">The Simpson Six</a> and officially committed to adopt this sweet girl.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJDoMHn3Gvza0TpW4pyrk4Rfgy9VcdA7BGAJdvIuRbUK7HWiMuQQEId42lFEvxvHNL2KtR9vLw7mMQb8aDitpnr6GgqwJulnLn_ZcqalJrzaDyeqmpLEWWeQpUU4bu2uDa9bsBWYIGwM/s1600/29pqf-Chloe%252C+july.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJDoMHn3Gvza0TpW4pyrk4Rfgy9VcdA7BGAJdvIuRbUK7HWiMuQQEId42lFEvxvHNL2KtR9vLw7mMQb8aDitpnr6GgqwJulnLn_ZcqalJrzaDyeqmpLEWWeQpUU4bu2uDa9bsBWYIGwM/s400/29pqf-Chloe%252C+july.jpg" width="342" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In August<a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/08/guest-room-updates.html"> we painted the guest room.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88iAoF9lFBuK_iLOq8Sh_vByWxYnrb746hJGG3cQXcGrFOesgbrWNFpUBYS5SWTSibdkU5AiH4prJMX6_ZKnIXjuzoF3JyHa57T25Khgk8aBoS5drrjTBISt9NPQAQ-QQ81eirJ8s_dA/s1600/painted+guest+room%252C+aug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88iAoF9lFBuK_iLOq8Sh_vByWxYnrb746hJGG3cQXcGrFOesgbrWNFpUBYS5SWTSibdkU5AiH4prJMX6_ZKnIXjuzoF3JyHa57T25Khgk8aBoS5drrjTBISt9NPQAQ-QQ81eirJ8s_dA/s400/painted+guest+room%252C+aug.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David and Henry <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/08/first-day-of-school.html">started their new school.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHflHVYu53A/Tv-LtgqtHJI/AAAAAAAAEaI/ijNQgbKLncg/s1600/school%252C+aug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHflHVYu53A/Tv-LtgqtHJI/AAAAAAAAEaI/ijNQgbKLncg/s400/school%252C+aug.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also started <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/08/coins-for-katie.html">Coins for Katie</a>, which has been the most amazing experience for our family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It has taught us more about people than we could have ever anticipated.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5CXSzyMtH0/Tv-MHo-SQYI/AAAAAAAAEaU/-dKu_DDObeA/s1600/Coins+for+Katie%252C+August.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5CXSzyMtH0/Tv-MHo-SQYI/AAAAAAAAEaU/-dKu_DDObeA/s400/Coins+for+Katie%252C+August.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/2011/08/yard-sale-success.html">fundraiser yard sale (and lemonade sale!)</a> and raised over $1,500 for our adoption expenses.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAe1TIIw3trD2pv99j_o3O8ho-4NHAsJGBT3SseL_BHarZIdgGl9txRVtvEm-2UqW9bmbfOEarAJms6XOo3ZrJ_PCLYMW2bj8AvYeOoUtEBLwy4uJ5_HH3G_nYyGro4P65Su_Sn21Aux0/s1600/lemonade%252C+august.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAe1TIIw3trD2pv99j_o3O8ho-4NHAsJGBT3SseL_BHarZIdgGl9txRVtvEm-2UqW9bmbfOEarAJms6XOo3ZrJ_PCLYMW2bj8AvYeOoUtEBLwy4uJ5_HH3G_nYyGro4P65Su_Sn21Aux0/s400/lemonade%252C+august.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezy3GAnBk7w/Tv-NzstyyuI/AAAAAAAAEbU/XLMvUPKGSOY/s1600/yard+sale%252C+aug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezy3GAnBk7w/Tv-NzstyyuI/AAAAAAAAEbU/XLMvUPKGSOY/s400/yard+sale%252C+aug.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In September, I came out of my <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy-birthday-grace.html">cake retirement for a very special girl.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzF6eY14F_4/Tv-MekNtmTI/AAAAAAAAEag/Yeu69zfkSJY/s1600/Grace%2527s+Cake%252C+Sept.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzF6eY14F_4/Tv-MekNtmTI/AAAAAAAAEag/Yeu69zfkSJY/s400/Grace%2527s+Cake%252C+Sept.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/09/lamp-before-and-after.html">redid a lamp</a> from my mother-in-law's basement.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmaD1Gqc7sY/Tv-MxTfUbQI/AAAAAAAAEas/YR7TGwb3hfE/s1600/lamp%252C+september.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmaD1Gqc7sY/Tv-MxTfUbQI/AAAAAAAAEas/YR7TGwb3hfE/s400/lamp%252C+september.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In October, the <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/10/big-weekend.html">boys ran their first race, and our amazing friends raised over $1,500 for Katie</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YiCzGaPfC50rXHybRmrc-XGL8LqqCKFAkdrp8VrojRciUmmoxuZx4kevv_jPyG2C7wxAP8lBqzBt2QJTRqqYRFwqlmD5Mn73FtJBzLA1lKxPbQCmXsGHYIwgHZrP8UqRglQ6qr4p6Ao/s1600/racers%252C+oct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YiCzGaPfC50rXHybRmrc-XGL8LqqCKFAkdrp8VrojRciUmmoxuZx4kevv_jPyG2C7wxAP8lBqzBt2QJTRqqYRFwqlmD5Mn73FtJBzLA1lKxPbQCmXsGHYIwgHZrP8UqRglQ6qr4p6Ao/s400/racers%252C+oct.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWP0i8QRXck/Tv-NQmXDmkI/AAAAAAAAEa8/oa11AK3qzrw/s1600/Run+for+Katie%252C+October.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWP0i8QRXck/Tv-NQmXDmkI/AAAAAAAAEa8/oa11AK3qzrw/s400/Run+for+Katie%252C+October.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also in October, <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/10/henrys-new-glasses.html">Henry got glasses</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6pkdZClPcCT8yAmvKGgCqjhBXlUeoPDBZJ2dTSw3ZUUKD9s4wwdoGCIPjlnVuWWI8Eyzvf3pkCGRUdxkBcRUcR68JO99byn0XBRu5GkC64KmFGnPBY53MgfuHb8hfnqYCRArKq-P0hA/s1600/glasses%252C+October.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6pkdZClPcCT8yAmvKGgCqjhBXlUeoPDBZJ2dTSw3ZUUKD9s4wwdoGCIPjlnVuWWI8Eyzvf3pkCGRUdxkBcRUcR68JO99byn0XBRu5GkC64KmFGnPBY53MgfuHb8hfnqYCRArKq-P0hA/s400/glasses%252C+October.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And David got an <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/10/iep-i-s-s-e-d-at-myself.html">IEP</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also carved some pumpkins and <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/11/happy-halloween.html">got our trick or treat on</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmzWSUlN-OS7s-DGhgvJPObtI0f032zmBGGIrw5RpOo8B_kQvN3AgyRQqAlVGZFGmlARBbBr5rGqMm-D34iFjVbJfhnEr_zKxua0HFIB0HHveaT7rRW4Hk5Z7zfRqGDVbaTTb4D7WDEI/s1600/Halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmzWSUlN-OS7s-DGhgvJPObtI0f032zmBGGIrw5RpOo8B_kQvN3AgyRQqAlVGZFGmlARBbBr5rGqMm-D34iFjVbJfhnEr_zKxua0HFIB0HHveaT7rRW4Hk5Z7zfRqGDVbaTTb4D7WDEI/s400/Halloween.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In November, <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011_11_01_archive.html">I gave thanks</a>. For a lot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got some <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/11/give-thanks-day-19.html">old silver and made a burlap wreath</a>.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OXvk0sPc1I0/Tv-QOfcTw8I/AAAAAAAAEb4/uiuf-wnEW-8/s1600/silver%252Cnovember.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OXvk0sPc1I0/Tv-QOfcTw8I/AAAAAAAAEb4/uiuf-wnEW-8/s400/silver%252Cnovember.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXX4l2UZrH4/Tv-QO-Or6yI/AAAAAAAAEcA/DRD7J4azPMI/s1600/wreath%252C+november.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXX4l2UZrH4/Tv-QO-Or6yI/AAAAAAAAEcA/DRD7J4azPMI/s400/wreath%252C+november.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/11/happy-thanksgiving.html">ate some turkey and had much for which we were thankful</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIT7y3HzvFldbpPgs16Bt5Bj2NVqvQG5WrIk5o0pK6QE2tyq4Ima_X5-hNOHLz85Gemp6i6PAbMIfu8a6vIahlKIULu0GXOXeEbYR-EV-Rnv1Euk41srn7kprWY-oU4HRvoqzEtlT98IM/s1600/thanksgiving+table%252C+november.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIT7y3HzvFldbpPgs16Bt5Bj2NVqvQG5WrIk5o0pK6QE2tyq4Ima_X5-hNOHLz85Gemp6i6PAbMIfu8a6vIahlKIULu0GXOXeEbYR-EV-Rnv1Euk41srn7kprWY-oU4HRvoqzEtlT98IM/s400/thanksgiving+table%252C+november.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEias1GlyQ1kcrRVmlXABKoFNATLhzV19m7rkrz3uWxpyyTH6G1MeNZpFgGcMHKoVo3oBIiwgnR8reR_y6npB4nEGY_TBSNt0eRMHxMj1cp61qZA-qvPlVIapCdAWERYH_itNEBJboEPzLQ/s1600/turkey+leg%252C+november.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEias1GlyQ1kcrRVmlXABKoFNATLhzV19m7rkrz3uWxpyyTH6G1MeNZpFgGcMHKoVo3oBIiwgnR8reR_y6npB4nEGY_TBSNt0eRMHxMj1cp61qZA-qvPlVIapCdAWERYH_itNEBJboEPzLQ/s400/turkey+leg%252C+november.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In December, we went to <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/12/tuesday-twelveon-sunday.html">Opryland with Gigi and Henry was in a play</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoLK05ucoAPXNV7NUUUv006AVyti3NcWibo2gnuQ1F8BhqSJ4361aHIsb-Vldcgwcpda8RUnw491-rV3zedbPiJzai0D_EJ7S_oUyccOTj9Q88JRuuSxFyJuHtGwqBQWrwSqJCS4zX2I/s1600/DSCF0844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoLK05ucoAPXNV7NUUUv006AVyti3NcWibo2gnuQ1F8BhqSJ4361aHIsb-Vldcgwcpda8RUnw491-rV3zedbPiJzai0D_EJ7S_oUyccOTj9Q88JRuuSxFyJuHtGwqBQWrwSqJCS4zX2I/s400/DSCF0844.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zS-FYD4B0gk/Tv-RgEhoJKI/AAAAAAAAEco/jY8c6hw-aOY/s1600/Henry%252C+December.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zS-FYD4B0gk/Tv-RgEhoJKI/AAAAAAAAEco/jY8c6hw-aOY/s400/Henry%252C+December.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/12/gingerbread-cookies.html">We made gingerbread cookies</a>, and <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/12/christmas-decorations.html">we decked the halls</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrK34MXLw7lrLWJN3nQAhOXptt5gvU-JV_MLy3UxCDOWN5ehYLLQzR1w5qRQIZlCleMyhVRdhPpgYiMZImcoB3NheHKgYsEnC8NwrvpyOSe_FGVLpGMfhiq0-KR4iGQS24MNuFqOBmS4/s1600/christmas+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrK34MXLw7lrLWJN3nQAhOXptt5gvU-JV_MLy3UxCDOWN5ehYLLQzR1w5qRQIZlCleMyhVRdhPpgYiMZImcoB3NheHKgYsEnC8NwrvpyOSe_FGVLpGMfhiq0-KR4iGQS24MNuFqOBmS4/s400/christmas+tree.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKuI5usD9eaWmVcaFmgb4ZSJz6RMvvjMqlVxtcffeZ13ZkDLwQhIKtuf8coJY59Thdj1Gvp8lNE-QLUCXrFmewLBCcZ49AnNewMAN_J2ehl-eXEbORzAQ32gPt3od44A6X9k55N3lyrOc/s1600/gingerbread+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKuI5usD9eaWmVcaFmgb4ZSJz6RMvvjMqlVxtcffeZ13ZkDLwQhIKtuf8coJY59Thdj1Gvp8lNE-QLUCXrFmewLBCcZ49AnNewMAN_J2ehl-eXEbORzAQ32gPt3od44A6X9k55N3lyrOc/s400/gingerbread+cookies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We <a href="http://simpsonmama.blogspot.com/2011/12/merry-christmas.html">had an amazing Christmas</a>, and David and Henry can both ride their bikes with no training wheels!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VvqPldBCcgA/Tv-YAjFgPPI/AAAAAAAAEdU/BBoAlT-ABNc/s1600/DSCF0861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VvqPldBCcgA/Tv-YAjFgPPI/AAAAAAAAEdU/BBoAlT-ABNc/s400/DSCF0861.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6NP2-UZwatQ/Tv-Ykmg_xHI/AAAAAAAAEdg/y2ZytFFjTMA/s1600/DSCF0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6NP2-UZwatQ/Tv-Ykmg_xHI/AAAAAAAAEdg/y2ZytFFjTMA/s400/DSCF0904.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FYbHCoFGT-Q/Tv-o1-zzJFI/AAAAAAAAEeM/W7CZKRLwq1Y/s1600/DSCF0890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FYbHCoFGT-Q/Tv-o1-zzJFI/AAAAAAAAEeM/W7CZKRLwq1Y/s400/DSCF0890.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Jack still needs his training wheels, but he does so well!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkyInn-oCLTqBQzx3OZkp0SZTnPtY7Gfnoxe7lN2GMAUyhVM_2SgMvh0f8bJb1FelxrvHhj2htEsmIxwfcAwt5d8f6D_2mv_DT1XeaSoXn2C6KfhYRMiUNwx_FevRoqLWuhpSFEtCzqs/s1600/DSCF0905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkyInn-oCLTqBQzx3OZkp0SZTnPtY7Gfnoxe7lN2GMAUyhVM_2SgMvh0f8bJb1FelxrvHhj2htEsmIxwfcAwt5d8f6D_2mv_DT1XeaSoXn2C6KfhYRMiUNwx_FevRoqLWuhpSFEtCzqs/s400/DSCF0905.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We have been very blessed this year - we've had good health, great friends, and amazing support on our adoption journey. We hope 2012 brings our sweet girl home to us.<br />
<br />
Best wishes to you and your family for a healthy, happy, safe 2012.<br />
<br />
I'm linked up to <a href="http://southernhospitalityblog.com/link-up-top-projects-of-2011-party/">Southern Hospitality</a>, <a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2011/12/weekend-wrap-up-party-link-up-your-favorite-projects-of-2011.html">Tatertots and Jell-o</a>, <a href="http://www.thebloominghydrangea.com/2011/12/2011-year-in-review.html">The Blooming Hydrangea</a>, and <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/01/before-and-after-party-updates.html">Thrifty Decor Chick</a>.</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-48172607811680889512011-12-31T08:33:00.000-06:002011-12-31T08:33:09.492-06:00Merry Christmas!I hope you had a great Christmas! We sure did. We don't have a huge extended family here in Tennessee - just my parents, Chris' parents, and my sister, her boyfriend, and his child - so everyone comes to our house for most holidays. Which I love. It's no secret that I love to have a party, and any time I have people over I consider it a party!<br />
<br />
Christmas Eve I actually got all five of us dressed and out the door to church. On time! In fact, we were the first people there. I was quite impressed with ourselves. The boys did such a good job. There was a very small baby in the pew behind us. The first time he made any noise Jack said (<i>not quietly</i>), "AH! I just KNEW the Baby Jesus would be here tonight!" <br />
<br />
After church we came home and everyone was at our house! We had fabulous food - just a buffet style - with seafood Newburgh, lots of yummy dips, appetizers, and desserts. We let each of the boys open one present on Christmas Eve, and they were of course very excited. David wanted Henry to open a special gift that David had picked and wrapped for him. He did such a great job wrapping it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ap0cX89y1Nw/Tv8RmeAkhkI/AAAAAAAAETA/iwKswUvJnxg/s1600/IMG_0262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ap0cX89y1Nw/Tv8RmeAkhkI/AAAAAAAAETA/iwKswUvJnxg/s400/IMG_0262.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QNtQWayh3HI/Tv8Ryvv7EnI/AAAAAAAAETI/-6hrCCrOTRs/s1600/IMG_0263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QNtQWayh3HI/Tv8Ryvv7EnI/AAAAAAAAETI/-6hrCCrOTRs/s400/IMG_0263.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite part? "To Henry S."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Unfortunately for Henry S., it was my iPad. Maybe next year David will pick something that Henry S. can actually keep.</div>
<br />
The rest of the gifts they opened were great. And the boys were maybe not the only people who were excited with their gifts. . . Nothing says Christmas Eve like a good light saber fight.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZGU9-fdsY4/Tv8KUEAkkkI/AAAAAAAAER4/NVLgLM_sjNY/s1600/IMG_0264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZGU9-fdsY4/Tv8KUEAkkkI/AAAAAAAAER4/NVLgLM_sjNY/s400/IMG_0264.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9W0AgFql2fRukPf-Itac6yjFLx3SvQEnnbxtNukYgrFu170catd8rOS4Bn-8qOhTHleTagCIwohgEl2OiVvMdTeirX6xcHlGenU5svkJxbQhi2R35FD1Jnv3g2pKAtz_XLBCFsoKGO4/s1600/IMG_0265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9W0AgFql2fRukPf-Itac6yjFLx3SvQEnnbxtNukYgrFu170catd8rOS4Bn-8qOhTHleTagCIwohgEl2OiVvMdTeirX6xcHlGenU5svkJxbQhi2R35FD1Jnv3g2pKAtz_XLBCFsoKGO4/s400/IMG_0265.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cZLGwpDFAeQ/Tv8KwckA2QI/AAAAAAAAESI/tsNi0FX5eyE/s1600/IMG_0266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cZLGwpDFAeQ/Tv8KwckA2QI/AAAAAAAAESI/tsNi0FX5eyE/s400/IMG_0266.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The boys went to bed relatively easily on Christmas Eve, which really surprised me because they were very excited for Santa. We wrote him a note, got some cookies and milk ready, and went right to bed. After they were in bed, Santa came and brought presents for them, as well as for Katie. You can read on <a href="http://thesimpsonsix.blogspot.com/">The Simpson Six</a> about what Katie got from Santa - girlfriend got a bunch of goodies!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rhoql3kSumk/Tv8L00STAGI/AAAAAAAAESU/jWPLcTrVxIk/s1600/DSCF0857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rhoql3kSumk/Tv8L00STAGI/AAAAAAAAESU/jWPLcTrVxIk/s400/DSCF0857.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIE2hpVFVmznSJ83AZbBic-fFyqs2CUuMtNN6j2slW2R23zaJfuTAKcc-2QVFPJXciFS6CCY-l5t7h642u5UwNKrxKg_UM4m9qE_CD-l9UDVCRUcNcTbcpgGA_68_owRC82qsK_irSB2E/s1600/DSCF0858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIE2hpVFVmznSJ83AZbBic-fFyqs2CUuMtNN6j2slW2R23zaJfuTAKcc-2QVFPJXciFS6CCY-l5t7h642u5UwNKrxKg_UM4m9qE_CD-l9UDVCRUcNcTbcpgGA_68_owRC82qsK_irSB2E/s400/DSCF0858.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And <i>of course</i> I had my slipcovers off of the sofas!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppdgE-QHnzE/Tv8MUtM_amI/AAAAAAAAESk/LOlCTDtui94/s1600/DSCF0859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppdgE-QHnzE/Tv8MUtM_amI/AAAAAAAAESk/LOlCTDtui94/s400/DSCF0859.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4Ws5sSuYiHuCRY2h3SF7EaFD5IzIz-G9ucHnMkRfiRN-VpoRO3nmEoq3bDhgtQDZ7VPQCmRMCc1q4kw2YrE5uBfL6nS9xkFFxYtxflU__2cf1UE5fqNi53hd_gXaNrdunLYHRszmbf8/s1600/DSCF0860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4Ws5sSuYiHuCRY2h3SF7EaFD5IzIz-G9ucHnMkRfiRN-VpoRO3nmEoq3bDhgtQDZ7VPQCmRMCc1q4kw2YrE5uBfL6nS9xkFFxYtxflU__2cf1UE5fqNi53hd_gXaNrdunLYHRszmbf8/s400/DSCF0860.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the Christmas trees at night with no other lights on.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skM0mdzHCXs/Tv8M-07GELI/AAAAAAAAES0/ZtcBB_Ei4t8/s1600/DSCF0862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skM0mdzHCXs/Tv8M-07GELI/AAAAAAAAES0/ZtcBB_Ei4t8/s400/DSCF0862.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They were SO excited Christmas morning. Chris' parents spent the night, and I could hear the boys in the guest room waking them up at about 5:30 in the morning. Chris and I stayed in bed until they came down, and then they opened their stockings. They were so loud and excited to see what Santa brought them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5hhuF5hxvYs1XEEBjRIXsRUDOwVsxnPVFP6gOZGrm05AyGLKYhYoLL1YLkUmFvdVS2YFmNHku_xbU4U0gPjbGI3eSQmi5AUUH-jw2pYLnkLDZILQe1xun3EDCXpHidAGTcr3w53D_Wo/s1600/DSCF0864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5hhuF5hxvYs1XEEBjRIXsRUDOwVsxnPVFP6gOZGrm05AyGLKYhYoLL1YLkUmFvdVS2YFmNHku_xbU4U0gPjbGI3eSQmi5AUUH-jw2pYLnkLDZILQe1xun3EDCXpHidAGTcr3w53D_Wo/s400/DSCF0864.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5IeeCCJ3yc/Tv8TAK3ffXI/AAAAAAAAETc/zqHT3LqeJPM/s1600/DSCF0865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5IeeCCJ3yc/Tv8TAK3ffXI/AAAAAAAAETc/zqHT3LqeJPM/s400/DSCF0865.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This "big Indiana Jones" was by far Jack's favorite gift.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's about the size of a Barbie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And was a used toy from Craigslist for $8. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Which was a fantastic deal, because the same one on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Indiana-Jones-Raiders-Ultimate-Action/dp/B001F0PGKI/ref=sr_1_28?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1325340371&sr=1-28">Amazon</a> is over $40.)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbeqHOsElgOhP7Vq6lkv3HzHkEWekQDj3812_i0NbdZWoqqW7iYdx3twJIanbGFuQxHj_n9K1eZU7yNLQlISzwPZbB6e2gYaI7Dv9vg5Qxf67jbVHtIlUb1fCesb7npBZqwa6pKzh4BI/s1600/DSCF0866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbeqHOsElgOhP7Vq6lkv3HzHkEWekQDj3812_i0NbdZWoqqW7iYdx3twJIanbGFuQxHj_n9K1eZU7yNLQlISzwPZbB6e2gYaI7Dv9vg5Qxf67jbVHtIlUb1fCesb7npBZqwa6pKzh4BI/s400/DSCF0866.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The stockings were my favorite part about Christmas gifts when I was little.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, um, still are.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisopKGe368FSLBiN6CtvJRE6OcqpYUmZKDwsDIXIZzMwfd0Z8RFAAZ8FipUm_73ieQA8PQmt9FaO2j8NwvdXuV6fntj2v3-MD57nO3ssJQ50VtYpKT0h3KCLIClpGIiyC0qRRxSTeij6w/s1600/DSCF0867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisopKGe368FSLBiN6CtvJRE6OcqpYUmZKDwsDIXIZzMwfd0Z8RFAAZ8FipUm_73ieQA8PQmt9FaO2j8NwvdXuV6fntj2v3-MD57nO3ssJQ50VtYpKT0h3KCLIClpGIiyC0qRRxSTeij6w/s400/DSCF0867.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-X_b4S5v3qfNdIWGU72KZjSVfhNeE6gflvHqPBVqwTU5N5Ju-1tubX3b-pNfjLgVSU100RjwUxjx_rHdMj7zFb00HuYJ9TZTOS5V0Cqs6pdIGX_n3orF3NPOltP94srWAZ7ODArj_RKg/s1600/DSCF0868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-X_b4S5v3qfNdIWGU72KZjSVfhNeE6gflvHqPBVqwTU5N5Ju-1tubX3b-pNfjLgVSU100RjwUxjx_rHdMj7zFb00HuYJ9TZTOS5V0Cqs6pdIGX_n3orF3NPOltP94srWAZ7ODArj_RKg/s400/DSCF0868.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Santa had a moment of crazy and brought slide whistles. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Three of them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bad move Santa. Bad move.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwBBgML-nW-UNNhJJvlCTXTHsWrLne975LHPx7Ys9soOoMMbGt6U6RaD_yN-eOhs0iZghxsToKFFgOnit03M9Iv9FJ6tllZ-FdxHTqFfHAftKRREJFry7QShyLtDwdmwcTso1OuBs-IU/s1600/DSCF0869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwBBgML-nW-UNNhJJvlCTXTHsWrLne975LHPx7Ys9soOoMMbGt6U6RaD_yN-eOhs0iZghxsToKFFgOnit03M9Iv9FJ6tllZ-FdxHTqFfHAftKRREJFry7QShyLtDwdmwcTso1OuBs-IU/s400/DSCF0869.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Since Katie isn't here yet to open her gifts, Henry and Jack did.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr62iJ6DAAPMR8ObtCXvsq_vvLzbfxUkBM9idEXyEHbsueB3E-DCpd5MkBbQTUQL8129X_Rybg1HUs611-As0ydmboWmcizfcDY8HemX2Il6l-BGxE31EybMyh9xCZ1th87Yk1d8atIWM/s1600/DSCF0870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr62iJ6DAAPMR8ObtCXvsq_vvLzbfxUkBM9idEXyEHbsueB3E-DCpd5MkBbQTUQL8129X_Rybg1HUs611-As0ydmboWmcizfcDY8HemX2Il6l-BGxE31EybMyh9xCZ1th87Yk1d8atIWM/s400/DSCF0870.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_xZZ8gk9zCBvNJLAwq0l3PWa9pEX99AcQ8JHeV_z8Q8S2Yowf1Uy91v_PsyEw972n6uijvB0whdDQAvhR52vOS9URCg-BNPCI-yTEZnlbNw7PQPICqTZNHSm8VSLP0yJr9IB6GgstlA/s1600/DSCF0872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_xZZ8gk9zCBvNJLAwq0l3PWa9pEX99AcQ8JHeV_z8Q8S2Yowf1Uy91v_PsyEw972n6uijvB0whdDQAvhR52vOS9URCg-BNPCI-yTEZnlbNw7PQPICqTZNHSm8VSLP0yJr9IB6GgstlA/s400/DSCF0872.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David is a big fan of the crazy straw glasses Santa brought.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLN_Cnc2NsYvjV2_seJOkBPxxBwcTslU2m3p_am_l-lc-MavLTDGISmr6GPurlXIrdwJvHyHPgQDZTOe4eYSalDydmWpuz2SpHdr4qdCsZ64rhQKYrxjeKGVm0GeodpBjXXq-V8jYyCIQ/s1600/DSCF0873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLN_Cnc2NsYvjV2_seJOkBPxxBwcTslU2m3p_am_l-lc-MavLTDGISmr6GPurlXIrdwJvHyHPgQDZTOe4eYSalDydmWpuz2SpHdr4qdCsZ64rhQKYrxjeKGVm0GeodpBjXXq-V8jYyCIQ/s400/DSCF0873.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And we played some serious games. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Monopoly and Battleship were two that we got this year.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgENklSGaVHBxiWEpSVN4iEEdVuAn7zChwjBQPOA8e-i2K4FRTypQCcIWYHr8wtVIjYdUzZsgzeynGHs-6xShRtyCgGqimfGoRPsKCgVUi0-HIwVOZkLtoHYdjjmz7PZBtPu52CH_TmHZU/s1600/DSCF0874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgENklSGaVHBxiWEpSVN4iEEdVuAn7zChwjBQPOA8e-i2K4FRTypQCcIWYHr8wtVIjYdUzZsgzeynGHs-6xShRtyCgGqimfGoRPsKCgVUi0-HIwVOZkLtoHYdjjmz7PZBtPu52CH_TmHZU/s400/DSCF0874.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David is a little Monopoly real estate mogul.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GrkBTYBGsgY/Tv8Vcb_hxMI/AAAAAAAAEUk/2L_jiw6LMqw/s1600/DSCF0875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GrkBTYBGsgY/Tv8Vcb_hxMI/AAAAAAAAEUk/2L_jiw6LMqw/s400/DSCF0875.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jack likes to watch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And tell people how to play.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiik4ac8vmFmDR_WhB1JfzqWEQpagJtIwnGsAagWYHlp0iWx3SrikSfCnmwoNAzAiijD5q323qWyc08Q6M1VQeeV4q7yQR8Y3dnblqk3JKeTW2XFv2QB2DQ2JWhaty-UZfCoVjdDS8XsY/s1600/DSCF0880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiik4ac8vmFmDR_WhB1JfzqWEQpagJtIwnGsAagWYHlp0iWx3SrikSfCnmwoNAzAiijD5q323qWyc08Q6M1VQeeV4q7yQR8Y3dnblqk3JKeTW2XFv2QB2DQ2JWhaty-UZfCoVjdDS8XsY/s400/DSCF0880.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Henry got a video camera for Christmas, and he loves it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He's been recording movies and following us around with his camera so he can capture anything exciting we might do.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-YaVCe-5jzJy-s99cMzBge2HYIdQ4kRCfmkdV-PbBLse5949bCyNArhoqA1WtOas-07kctKdMGHnLCNM0jEVmlD-j-j3LnxO_R7MVNFbscVfUsBwhvhyJk81GZTVA7y8lF_c_fjX5j0/s1600/DSCF0881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-YaVCe-5jzJy-s99cMzBge2HYIdQ4kRCfmkdV-PbBLse5949bCyNArhoqA1WtOas-07kctKdMGHnLCNM0jEVmlD-j-j3LnxO_R7MVNFbscVfUsBwhvhyJk81GZTVA7y8lF_c_fjX5j0/s400/DSCF0881.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They got snack sets (plates, bowls, and cups) that they can design.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You draw your design on the templates that came with the sets then send them in to Crayola and they print it on your dishes and send it back.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Henry was ON that project.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have more Christmas pictures for another post, but must get started taking down my Christmas decorations!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-50628539588636151112011-12-24T08:30:00.001-06:002011-12-24T08:30:03.150-06:00It's Official..............David has cancelled Christmas Eve. Let the festivities begin!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFwgpqFlDip35-uSKarCkANxdArIq8sayKU8K0X5_uedLodff9craIGJIA1VYjrId-uswqhPQK8nwnKr7cycwoAp2jLL8BeD7HQ7sdLY9x4hAHQNwTkq4h7y6_O1tfETdvydvKDwfD3E/s1600/24th+calendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFwgpqFlDip35-uSKarCkANxdArIq8sayKU8K0X5_uedLodff9craIGJIA1VYjrId-uswqhPQK8nwnKr7cycwoAp2jLL8BeD7HQ7sdLY9x4hAHQNwTkq4h7y6_O1tfETdvydvKDwfD3E/s400/24th+calendar.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-23307608384351289142011-12-18T11:26:00.000-06:002011-12-18T11:34:53.837-06:00Christmas Decorations.I have finally gotten around to taking some Christmas pictures. I have been so busy this month - it has flown by, and I cannot believe that Christmas is in one week. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6U5IBENqrYtr0Eok4nlfIVVnquJ-Rn1x7H8moi33grZ5zYm4Vayuna8TajuGSdLeLDtRuPHtsWreKQuP-kQSCaXtVuN1iu7MRcirVgU9ym6rpn2_Jt6fi0RTE2f1FdBO6KJ_3lRT-mWg/s1600/IMG_0143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6U5IBENqrYtr0Eok4nlfIVVnquJ-Rn1x7H8moi33grZ5zYm4Vayuna8TajuGSdLeLDtRuPHtsWreKQuP-kQSCaXtVuN1iu7MRcirVgU9ym6rpn2_Jt6fi0RTE2f1FdBO6KJ_3lRT-mWg/s400/IMG_0143.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is our tree in our entry way. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It has one of my favorite Christmas ornaments as the topper.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtV8RaJiPLvVbmciy-5MwJIz8Dj7Lf6zW9JLb9yy9on6XJpVK8sYozvg5mZ_vNIHKe7n7apr4Nhsxuzh7DMEPenMyQNu1IlTJiFPoMSj5EvlXXJN7n1fl1xEO3rjyxQUkRMvS1cYtNhZM/s1600/IMG_0241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtV8RaJiPLvVbmciy-5MwJIz8Dj7Lf6zW9JLb9yy9on6XJpVK8sYozvg5mZ_vNIHKe7n7apr4Nhsxuzh7DMEPenMyQNu1IlTJiFPoMSj5EvlXXJN7n1fl1xEO3rjyxQUkRMvS1cYtNhZM/s400/IMG_0241.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David made this poinsettia out of a paper plate four years ago in preschool, and I love it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Like, would take it out of a burning house love it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I put it up high each year so nobody can ruin it, because that's how we roll.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmdTZc3HVeymrCAOTNFaJ0D97_SPrtVonQxmZQS779phaHyYaupDfWJGdBYH7M358HNFWRUnw4f5Wcd9TzyB1_t4gGWSF6iQb26VP96hTZwVzIVkSlvGjORGNmZhLBTP3mCeXRCqTVhs/s1600/IMG_0144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmdTZc3HVeymrCAOTNFaJ0D97_SPrtVonQxmZQS779phaHyYaupDfWJGdBYH7M358HNFWRUnw4f5Wcd9TzyB1_t4gGWSF6iQb26VP96hTZwVzIVkSlvGjORGNmZhLBTP3mCeXRCqTVhs/s400/IMG_0144.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the playroom tree. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I put no ornaments on this that I love, because they would get broken. Annually.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This beauty got an upgrade this year with a bigger tree. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ghosts of Christmas past. . . </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M-5vf5sgZS68Nc2OlO6OTNdgPc3D3JSKDw8wvy7f9AjuHq9-IcKFacMod8m1_GzCsESrZTI91Nk4MdyAmDnI8SZwuJRqyZBcRSIyPsEyJqpo9agxXdS0zjuJJv7lM-XA4Dv-8io-6dE/s1600/Christmas+tree+2007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M-5vf5sgZS68Nc2OlO6OTNdgPc3D3JSKDw8wvy7f9AjuHq9-IcKFacMod8m1_GzCsESrZTI91Nk4MdyAmDnI8SZwuJRqyZBcRSIyPsEyJqpo9agxXdS0zjuJJv7lM-XA4Dv-8io-6dE/s400/Christmas+tree+2007.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas 2007<br />
Look at those babies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsEu0fFm7bH8IiNLMr40OOcPXaeiXNFF6lww6c6CnX4gUpY2Ah0ObN8dCoqXIeOZaW2G-R9WycGNYUlNE63HoObV2L3DwQ7khqg4g5xy7888F_2EoilKxyDl7TcqYeor4dikjHAIrtz8/s1600/Christmas+tree+2008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsEu0fFm7bH8IiNLMr40OOcPXaeiXNFF6lww6c6CnX4gUpY2Ah0ObN8dCoqXIeOZaW2G-R9WycGNYUlNE63HoObV2L3DwQ7khqg4g5xy7888F_2EoilKxyDl7TcqYeor4dikjHAIrtz8/s400/Christmas+tree+2008.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas 2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBT-acnCTGlnoWpArI3nAMc0H5UIoRo3cKB4DN4_M82hFAPkxlNG__E2vxdX213vrGMm9QOP3uI3ur59RePy0PxK7Z2pfNrbWc0N01Hzoa5YAa9KHhNI5SRFzndj21Z7i9KzEHtWlHTo/s1600/Christmas+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBT-acnCTGlnoWpArI3nAMc0H5UIoRo3cKB4DN4_M82hFAPkxlNG__E2vxdX213vrGMm9QOP3uI3ur59RePy0PxK7Z2pfNrbWc0N01Hzoa5YAa9KHhNI5SRFzndj21Z7i9KzEHtWlHTo/s400/Christmas+2010.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evidently we skipped the photo version of 2009. . . this was 2010's playroom tree.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That little tree has been moved to the guest room.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's on the window seat, and next year I'm going to try to finagle some sort of pot or planter box for it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Henry decorated this tree. He clearly does not subscribe to the "less is more" theory of decorating.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QxyzEMz56u7aEvrOOqS9ac4pREELzb2k5Ougvao1YxvXycCgXiqz-sQrTyVe5ZuWaWnq0S1c-fcWPZIkiKADeWV-dm-yXOSmN9XI4kpS6XGIKxlribU9QFEu25vcbJoXwMz4pRS3MR8/s1600/IMG_0145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QxyzEMz56u7aEvrOOqS9ac4pREELzb2k5Ougvao1YxvXycCgXiqz-sQrTyVe5ZuWaWnq0S1c-fcWPZIkiKADeWV-dm-yXOSmN9XI4kpS6XGIKxlribU9QFEu25vcbJoXwMz4pRS3MR8/s400/IMG_0145.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is our living room tree, which is our biggest tree.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We wanted to cut it down this year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But we bought it at a farm stand instead. . . close enough.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is probably my favorite tree ever. Which I think I say every year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyk-7duGRu4hXFEJ3Pwurs8N6p5CgfNyrPIOloi5SKZfSR3RjvHDIJrUJStmMb6VdOUR2Fln4G7zPLBGkoyGAAleS5jdhOYmeFBXiyCg89EFCKZwR_nufe23DOi9hPK30wN_yxizvmGqk/s1600/IMG_0238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyk-7duGRu4hXFEJ3Pwurs8N6p5CgfNyrPIOloi5SKZfSR3RjvHDIJrUJStmMb6VdOUR2Fln4G7zPLBGkoyGAAleS5jdhOYmeFBXiyCg89EFCKZwR_nufe23DOi9hPK30wN_yxizvmGqk/s400/IMG_0238.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdc5sSc4oL70LaU135VMprJYF7ocIsqo_HZs2tBUEZF9NostE5VtZ6LUodpdy3UJN6JHEdtuDkHguQbFeSbfr9PVSUt8MZ8Yuw012b75_EmH4dUOAI91YtJWBW-3yPnccrmH5tSmLlJ9s/s1600/IMG_0242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdc5sSc4oL70LaU135VMprJYF7ocIsqo_HZs2tBUEZF9NostE5VtZ6LUodpdy3UJN6JHEdtuDkHguQbFeSbfr9PVSUt8MZ8Yuw012b75_EmH4dUOAI91YtJWBW-3yPnccrmH5tSmLlJ9s/s400/IMG_0242.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of my favorites!<br />
We got this in Lake George six years ago.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBO0SJ6JZg4GaAXsrCrr1p46FDOEWnJvh2ffvPVlUQ6dvti7wcAHcqWog7HWg1rgvf9fJVj1HxGJL7z5uQxlNR87ZNJeafqlWmJQoA1xvKmKzCn2mqh3clBHLGBYnloJL-69JD3JbgAk/s1600/IMG_0243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBO0SJ6JZg4GaAXsrCrr1p46FDOEWnJvh2ffvPVlUQ6dvti7wcAHcqWog7HWg1rgvf9fJVj1HxGJL7z5uQxlNR87ZNJeafqlWmJQoA1xvKmKzCn2mqh3clBHLGBYnloJL-69JD3JbgAk/s400/IMG_0243.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a new one this year! It's a R*****n building, in honor of Katie's country.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCg588SRH1t3X78H9MhIzDEwxzHG_5LifgK1b_HcjZEETuK4oEgpVig6m6cNvtBFJYmSQt-GAi-Lmk2ALkUrwKtF68yaCsYiumF2z5fzewxWIxZybHzvAgX35YWJe3kLnWRgolAQm5kE/s1600/IMG_0244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCg588SRH1t3X78H9MhIzDEwxzHG_5LifgK1b_HcjZEETuK4oEgpVig6m6cNvtBFJYmSQt-GAi-Lmk2ALkUrwKtF68yaCsYiumF2z5fzewxWIxZybHzvAgX35YWJe3kLnWRgolAQm5kE/s400/IMG_0244.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Also a new one - a Matroyshka doll, for our girl Katie Ruth.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaE3KW8Ebi0xh1BDecST5pUITlyjI7AKzQbPB1LhqGjaTt0GWjY8krXN_Y1XewRwxYcPK-15UNBkU2eyttPW55s-Ua3eb9QUY5beJrvwrcGZ1rSdSHWJkp4a8eLtUXxu5_Z-rWOnDtrk/s1600/IMG_0245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaE3KW8Ebi0xh1BDecST5pUITlyjI7AKzQbPB1LhqGjaTt0GWjY8krXN_Y1XewRwxYcPK-15UNBkU2eyttPW55s-Ua3eb9QUY5beJrvwrcGZ1rSdSHWJkp4a8eLtUXxu5_Z-rWOnDtrk/s400/IMG_0245.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this one! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_Fd23ypwEhrf7d3d74WP_xiwNXDdvzaCacK4zODQFb-RpMlRfBcGz4Fj7i3PeB3O37wkgaHbPyX-ZhYYV8QByJwvS2FWn2ira0bME_OZ0ngSrckeJ6SowUWi4vmA6Y5SJ5jCQ_oB5mw/s1600/IMG_0246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_Fd23ypwEhrf7d3d74WP_xiwNXDdvzaCacK4zODQFb-RpMlRfBcGz4Fj7i3PeB3O37wkgaHbPyX-ZhYYV8QByJwvS2FWn2ira0bME_OZ0ngSrckeJ6SowUWi4vmA6Y5SJ5jCQ_oB5mw/s400/IMG_0246.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of my favorites. <br />
One of my old managers from the Gap gave it to me about 10 years ago, and I love it. <br />
It's heavy and simple. <br />
And always hung up high.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgNsy7pvgQDN6QBuQqkwT_bcAR5NSil8esX_QR7TF9z8_HNo3JSwr13GIiocCtQYhbQKtHWls51IiFArRnce3FEymSWp3hehTbBSMxDn70ntkP5mocGsHbhAPLfRGcEdP7U5NJ2NYuoo/s1600/IMG_0247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgNsy7pvgQDN6QBuQqkwT_bcAR5NSil8esX_QR7TF9z8_HNo3JSwr13GIiocCtQYhbQKtHWls51IiFArRnce3FEymSWp3hehTbBSMxDn70ntkP5mocGsHbhAPLfRGcEdP7U5NJ2NYuoo/s400/IMG_0247.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sweet little H and his fingerprint wreath.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPpC0lNXuWKAnempJ3J_Z2OCBwIfeKCU4Y29Z5IwSMtBfWnbv_h-AoRZT5Pvq1mdmo_hlB5d87ZqNBuCq31ikTy0enZyJ6ju8hySs_R46BZ8SNrFLraDbKSTxYfe9e-gdUuJySfMiY1M/s1600/IMG_0248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPpC0lNXuWKAnempJ3J_Z2OCBwIfeKCU4Y29Z5IwSMtBfWnbv_h-AoRZT5Pvq1mdmo_hlB5d87ZqNBuCq31ikTy0enZyJ6ju8hySs_R46BZ8SNrFLraDbKSTxYfe9e-gdUuJySfMiY1M/s400/IMG_0248.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And his Christmas elf photo from four years ago in preschool.<br />
Every time he sees this he says, "I was grumpy that day at school," which cracks me up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOuyDynyhbAJfVkx1iUqyBSqOpiYEP0J2H-3XYuGABKuPRrfxRJhdiCGLUTG6YhbkhJY-QaMsvUatl0qDZKhJSanG4vPR1s7y4UcWnxhK4Na9tm8EBalmh5bZ328TD12M0J6ermga0rzM/s1600/IMG_0249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOuyDynyhbAJfVkx1iUqyBSqOpiYEP0J2H-3XYuGABKuPRrfxRJhdiCGLUTG6YhbkhJY-QaMsvUatl0qDZKhJSanG4vPR1s7y4UcWnxhK4Na9tm8EBalmh5bZ328TD12M0J6ermga0rzM/s400/IMG_0249.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And one of my favorite parts of Christmas. . . the Christmas cards!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGFiSLzRFyemkEOX6fk6xs-gHkC4XYr_oyJ4OV8SJzC83Rw0B8vbNgSrl_BbODTIxDaW6Ml-F4QXoRPar3VEC9GUfUh7sNpxkGER5U234KNXud1x5WTNPVCoc-JuYl_aD3Y2had4tiRJk/s1600/IMG_0236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGFiSLzRFyemkEOX6fk6xs-gHkC4XYr_oyJ4OV8SJzC83Rw0B8vbNgSrl_BbODTIxDaW6Ml-F4QXoRPar3VEC9GUfUh7sNpxkGER5U234KNXud1x5WTNPVCoc-JuYl_aD3Y2had4tiRJk/s400/IMG_0236.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got this little bird at an ornament swap last week.<br />I brought a Matroyshka doll and brought this home. <br />I LOVE it. It reminds me of my Grammy Chet's tree.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ur-3RTDVv1FQmMPIeUgdWicZsIE0IWSwmBxtEaKYatC2YyJIssYRKjawkw6FySNH-0EOxIlIe7kN8VYFQI-EELRqayNH3VtQUdukUpLRCmG4PrNj6oNi76zgEt2QF_DVtOTho9mYjvs/s1600/IMG_0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ur-3RTDVv1FQmMPIeUgdWicZsIE0IWSwmBxtEaKYatC2YyJIssYRKjawkw6FySNH-0EOxIlIe7kN8VYFQI-EELRqayNH3VtQUdukUpLRCmG4PrNj6oNi76zgEt2QF_DVtOTho9mYjvs/s400/IMG_0237.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our nutcrackers. We get new ones each year.<br />Bonus - this year we haven't broken any!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPPJfi0-DwcS1I3cjSKx-I8xX5nBZupr3fFp0DYMJ7vqGJ_n_LvfPUz_LDaoYR_pYIyQNjVxPPTA1ZWWgXkDc2DkWePA-6VYS0F7p7UcxpXfuAg1FuIRQQNKDRxzYjA-YHifUtIV_smqQ/s1600/IMG_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPPJfi0-DwcS1I3cjSKx-I8xX5nBZupr3fFp0DYMJ7vqGJ_n_LvfPUz_LDaoYR_pYIyQNjVxPPTA1ZWWgXkDc2DkWePA-6VYS0F7p7UcxpXfuAg1FuIRQQNKDRxzYjA-YHifUtIV_smqQ/s400/IMG_0220.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite decorations this year! And they were free!<br />When we bought our tree I asked if I could buy some clippings. They told me just to take them.<br />I shoved some floral foam in the wall planters and poked the clippings in until they looked full.<br />I pulled my dead plants out of the urns and shoved the clippings in the dirt until they looked the way I wanted them to. I love the final look! <br />(And the screen door is getting new screen and getting stained. . . it will be back better than new!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-26666600105048381612011-12-18T09:43:00.002-06:002011-12-18T09:46:46.781-06:00Gingerbread CookiesThis is the recipe I use for gingerbread cookies - it looks complicated, but it's really not. Make sure you chill your dough well. And I roll mine out on a piece of food grade vinyl that I used for cakes, which makes clean up SIMPLE. I put a piece of wax paper on top and roll over that. Easy peasy, and no messy clean up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #001f54; font: 14.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8DhaL7hEi5hz4KDX26HckD9w-2jV0U0wyhVfq1EPvOgM3IuIJKFesIP1JTeZO5ufDp6FWRLpPCJHRnuKn9_2Isr1qgXI_HjCXRSNAQKuNuOMGiltemz54bMSkuI_D4fAnLJmHbQm60A/s1600/IMG_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8DhaL7hEi5hz4KDX26HckD9w-2jV0U0wyhVfq1EPvOgM3IuIJKFesIP1JTeZO5ufDp6FWRLpPCJHRnuKn9_2Isr1qgXI_HjCXRSNAQKuNuOMGiltemz54bMSkuI_D4fAnLJmHbQm60A/s400/IMG_0216.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b><br /></b></span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b><br /></b></span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b>Gingerbread Cookies</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #001f54; font: 14.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; min-height: 17.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #001f54; font: 14.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b>Ingredients</b></span></div>
<ol style="list-style-type: decimal;">
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">6 cups all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 tablespoon baking powder</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 tablespoon ground ginger</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 teaspoon ground nutmeg</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 teaspoon ground cloves</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 cup shortening, melted and cooled slightly</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 cup molasses</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 cup packed brown sugar</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1/2 cup water</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 egg</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 13.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div>
<div style="color: #001f54; font: 14.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b>Directions</b></span></div>
<ol style="list-style-type: decimal;">
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Sift together the flour, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon; set aside.</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">In a medium bowl, mix together the shortening, molasses, brown sugar, water, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, until they are completely absorbed. Divide dough into 3 pieces, pat down to 1 1/2 inch thickness, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters. Place cookies 1 inch apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.</span></li>
<li style="color: #001f54; font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. When the cookies are done, they will look dry, but still be soft to the touch. Remove from the baking sheet to cool on wire racks. When cool, the cookies can be frosted with the icing of your choice.</span></li>
</ol>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-43985870094198088292011-12-13T06:01:00.004-06:002011-12-18T09:31:56.261-06:00Tuesday Twelve.....On Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. Henry Loves a Christmas list. With a capital "L". He makes them all year long. This is the one he made on the computer this weekend. For someone who regularly gets 108% on his spelling tests, we have some issues. . . like "gingerbread dool" and "ordmint" (which is ornament). And really? "Sante". Commonly known as Santa. Bless him. He loves some Sante. (And this Lego Ninjago business? Ugh. They are all obsessed.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZOPQs90aNYd2SF57HP_9TpG5IWueBkFIjeimRVywtfcY-gfLais94ClWVZg9zTlX3-Gbjt2J-aGolSiGccA9W0xm16Tl-DsJR2HBQQNf50wPGFiiSO3scpdTB-HyNUzDTJQ1o1cfjiM/s1600/IMG_0209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZOPQs90aNYd2SF57HP_9TpG5IWueBkFIjeimRVywtfcY-gfLais94ClWVZg9zTlX3-Gbjt2J-aGolSiGccA9W0xm16Tl-DsJR2HBQQNf50wPGFiiSO3scpdTB-HyNUzDTJQ1o1cfjiM/s400/IMG_0209.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
2. Henry also loves to help and to bake as much as he loves Sante. It's his turn to bring the class snack on Wednesday, and we made cookies together this weekend. For four hours. I may have met my baking match.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsKmHu-ZfBV1QyU6RqOKBRxHFfMT8T3o8eKNPBtvJc6_lrIiFew2sIhsAun5CF6XJhd6SqArWXJrxwELiUyXvrH1TUUH2BAIdYgt-JbrDFQLKAqce42FHufc23wV4Pd5WJHfFLG330xg/s1600/IMG_0212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsKmHu-ZfBV1QyU6RqOKBRxHFfMT8T3o8eKNPBtvJc6_lrIiFew2sIhsAun5CF6XJhd6SqArWXJrxwELiUyXvrH1TUUH2BAIdYgt-JbrDFQLKAqce42FHufc23wV4Pd5WJHfFLG330xg/s400/IMG_0212.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David popped in to cut some out, but he really would rather just eat the dough.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKROm_TaPCWYXTa9g7xNnzBsoGs9nKw3zSUhXDbrJmddGZ5k1T1j5WNnKynDlEis9G6oGhN6cYrxWN62yVOzHnW55f4wvO37zePPArDcL5jd2dwPhBwOUSFhBK4kLvmUZOsOkoUZif4w/s1600/IMG_0213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKROm_TaPCWYXTa9g7xNnzBsoGs9nKw3zSUhXDbrJmddGZ5k1T1j5WNnKynDlEis9G6oGhN6cYrxWN62yVOzHnW55f4wvO37zePPArDcL5jd2dwPhBwOUSFhBK4kLvmUZOsOkoUZif4w/s400/IMG_0213.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. Henry also played with the neighbor, J, this weekend. He and David went to his house for a few minutes, then came tearing home on their bikes. They were all excited and told me that J "wanted to have a sass war" and that he was saying ugly things. I told them to just stay home. A few minutes later Henry was walking out the back door again with a piece of paper in his hands that had a piece of tape at the top. I asked him what it was and he tried to hide it. He said it was for J. I made him give it to me and it said, "Dear J>>>, From, your nabors. You are a Jack ask." I took the note and left the room. So I could crack up in private.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. We went to Opryland Hotel this weekend to see the Christmas lights. I should have taken a Xanax before we left. There were so. many. people there. We went to dinner after, and we didn't eat until 9:00 at night. My kids are in bed by 7:30 every night! They were so, so well behaved. Especially David, who literally slept on my lap through dinner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGwDgmoXLpC4WNWHi9M3pO1wC2symBOcZUYQppa-cGT4HL-DgIWUaXhNB9aY1Odi0IclIt8xQj4xji655vhOzYUHoAisXEPhoZqNtA5wEolR9OZk1wIxN8AESKaomudufdDvTHMfP0Bo/s1600/sleeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGwDgmoXLpC4WNWHi9M3pO1wC2symBOcZUYQppa-cGT4HL-DgIWUaXhNB9aY1Odi0IclIt8xQj4xji655vhOzYUHoAisXEPhoZqNtA5wEolR9OZk1wIxN8AESKaomudufdDvTHMfP0Bo/s400/sleeping.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5. I wrapped six Christmas presents last night. . . and none of them were from the stash in my trunk that I drive around with every single day. Oops. I need to get moving on those.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
6. My office Christmas party is Friday night. I love our office, and we have great Christmas parties. We all have a lot of fun together, and the food is always great. And everyone is ridiculously generous and loves to give nice presents, so we get great gifts. I get excited just thinking about it. And Chris and I never get to go our without our children, so it's a lot of fun for us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
7. My key lime cupcakes from last week? They were delicious. I will post the recipe in a different post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
8. The gingerbread cookies we made? Also fabulous. I'll post that recipe as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFvJsVDKK_qLN57sBNFCCQdjti7X22rpV0Pb0fEUuOMbWe03rzLoQiLzZuVRPak52dwIjp-pEdk4K5gyhqwAoYcVkHwSxIrOXwYDa7SYWeaPT11A9_cNqoeD655jsgVS6fMRywiK4kSU/s1600/IMG_0215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFvJsVDKK_qLN57sBNFCCQdjti7X22rpV0Pb0fEUuOMbWe03rzLoQiLzZuVRPak52dwIjp-pEdk4K5gyhqwAoYcVkHwSxIrOXwYDa7SYWeaPT11A9_cNqoeD655jsgVS6fMRywiK4kSU/s400/IMG_0215.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eCOMfLNyDVkA9s0aGOeGiyUAwJpmcPSeFFGnpdPBp_QPPu5rsaWRDBQHzW5t-AlzjXhBqP1xb1Jm2vq6e_2N931LIfkY6DwoNwl9l5HfrwUW5Irlm9CbdthHZD0-katP0kk2jnOZwxY/s1600/IMG_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eCOMfLNyDVkA9s0aGOeGiyUAwJpmcPSeFFGnpdPBp_QPPu5rsaWRDBQHzW5t-AlzjXhBqP1xb1Jm2vq6e_2N931LIfkY6DwoNwl9l5HfrwUW5Irlm9CbdthHZD0-katP0kk2jnOZwxY/s400/IMG_0216.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Henry was very, very excited to bring them to school.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1O8UBoCHL4g-xRyoTIb0UYjPBnt2FyIlH_8ui-MKNfId8lPkYSAYO8tGpU00wbleqGFDpRccbNJ5tvXMwtLEvK8l_-6YShoNssm55eKA3wWeb8wtMvxWp0THWH4W4v4VUCLma6WybZ0/s1600/IMG_0219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1O8UBoCHL4g-xRyoTIb0UYjPBnt2FyIlH_8ui-MKNfId8lPkYSAYO8tGpU00wbleqGFDpRccbNJ5tvXMwtLEvK8l_-6YShoNssm55eKA3wWeb8wtMvxWp0THWH4W4v4VUCLma6WybZ0/s400/IMG_0219.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
9. We got the boys' school pictures. They're bad. Henry's individual pictures are OK. David's? He looks like he wants to kill someone. However, I ordered them because he will only be in second grade once. I ordered everyone's with a white background so I can hang them together and they don't look ridiculous. So much for that idea. David's came with a large black smudge in the printing on the white background. So I called the company and explained the situation. They said it was likely in the printing and sent me a new set. They were delivered yesterday and are EXACTLY THE SAME. I called them back, and told them I wanted a refund. They said I could, but that I had to send the pictures (both sets) back to them. Um, no. I've already cut up the first set and sent some with Christmas cards! They have a smudge, but they're the only pictures we've got. I ended up talking to a supervisor and have to send the second set back and they've refunded my money. If the pictures didn't go on the yearbook pages, etc. I would never order them from school. They're always terrible! And we got Henry's class picture . . . with the wrong name. They're supposed to send me a corrected version. What the hell? I paid over $100 for bad pictures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10. I had three cups of coffee and three cookies for breakfast today. Oops.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
11. The kids had Christmas stuff at school this week. Henry had a Gingerbread play, and he was hilarious. It was so, so cute. They have breakfast with Santa at school on Tuesday, and then they're out until after Christmas. I'm ready for a break from homework and packing lunches.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCX-JJLld6JyaEkPev-ObVpywFzo5bUX2HYZMXim1eITDSezRL7_PETlM5RsydPyEtxHcSEO3uLFJTllKGbzl0CKubFoxMgF8ZIeqi9FqLDH-ITVzvAkVs2YMl7t5enIUa98wiENAAcA/s1600/IMG_0225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCX-JJLld6JyaEkPev-ObVpywFzo5bUX2HYZMXim1eITDSezRL7_PETlM5RsydPyEtxHcSEO3uLFJTllKGbzl0CKubFoxMgF8ZIeqi9FqLDH-ITVzvAkVs2YMl7t5enIUa98wiENAAcA/s400/IMG_0225.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKicHRsMpaXjSqL1LeEGQ-GIpyXvSp3WIVp8AZeZ3FO38z4XQmY_QMp3sylSX_-3VDFZ-DMgowglEdJbAbWzbDvb-aoTpPFIdSW_qvSATtVb2HxM460wRTc_ZsTLukf_ZOFDcW3UG1n3U/s1600/IMG_0228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKicHRsMpaXjSqL1LeEGQ-GIpyXvSp3WIVp8AZeZ3FO38z4XQmY_QMp3sylSX_-3VDFZ-DMgowglEdJbAbWzbDvb-aoTpPFIdSW_qvSATtVb2HxM460wRTc_ZsTLukf_ZOFDcW3UG1n3U/s400/IMG_0228.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>(And, as my own personal observation side note, I was so glad to see that the little girls in his class were all dressed in age appropriate clothing. I cannot stand a slutty looking six year old, and there were none. Lots of cute cotton dresses, sweaters, leggings, etc. That made me happy.)</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
12. The boys painted dreidels this morning. We're not Jewish. Is that weird?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hywPfe8uANlr2hmPuOG5HnJJoQoFUeCl_E8RAg-QL_81NeSwsFQ7F2r2GTUnK1bQk1VpNzDmUUFA5UCl5JLogdqLBleGn0hURxOd762HTrlir04gfWzous4WNLgeBmLQQod-9Crvu64/s1600/IMG_0234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hywPfe8uANlr2hmPuOG5HnJJoQoFUeCl_E8RAg-QL_81NeSwsFQ7F2r2GTUnK1bQk1VpNzDmUUFA5UCl5JLogdqLBleGn0hURxOd762HTrlir04gfWzous4WNLgeBmLQQod-9Crvu64/s400/IMG_0234.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-58049622388062302882011-12-06T03:33:00.001-06:002011-12-06T04:27:25.775-06:00Tuesday Twelve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsL7IWvcaygrfIwe1UYU3Q_EIO0FMagKK8svlkXV_FZQ0goRllxWfq8hL9PiAX0zSD7ppVhwCBzveY7GDpYwGyOM8bxxZBvC6wqNNRfUMFb-b1R1Nm3tcXMtrGkSV0T3dCPnvxTG_dBM/s1600/IMG_0142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsL7IWvcaygrfIwe1UYU3Q_EIO0FMagKK8svlkXV_FZQ0goRllxWfq8hL9PiAX0zSD7ppVhwCBzveY7GDpYwGyOM8bxxZBvC6wqNNRfUMFb-b1R1Nm3tcXMtrGkSV0T3dCPnvxTG_dBM/s400/IMG_0142.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1. This little bugger has turned into quite a reader. I snapped this photo while we were reading a Flat Stanley book, and David was absolutely cracking up.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhQ0vYIbdypVxRQ6o1RjFMv5K0EL5oICiH0fNmFOciUQDQtSHgBIBnZez18mLHD9xrhvemvpDnL-gG6_dOhBjV97C3QpTcTlbCsmxZZKuddzVN_FICAD9mZ3FrIVFQzmjX-qhty-qcFA/s1600/IMG_0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhQ0vYIbdypVxRQ6o1RjFMv5K0EL5oICiH0fNmFOciUQDQtSHgBIBnZez18mLHD9xrhvemvpDnL-gG6_dOhBjV97C3QpTcTlbCsmxZZKuddzVN_FICAD9mZ3FrIVFQzmjX-qhty-qcFA/s400/IMG_0171.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0xPNKz8nSQBs80immVZsFFVdU1kMw9JrG9Q26PE0FK1-Wvp26KBN9eJn5YANwNW_o3dXBh9vnXeC6ks18xb-YvW7KXXW5BPV2ApGs49zNr-7tEENR6nJ8K-kD5JwRX9IcRYIjPEyP_Nw/s1600/IMG_0170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0xPNKz8nSQBs80immVZsFFVdU1kMw9JrG9Q26PE0FK1-Wvp26KBN9eJn5YANwNW_o3dXBh9vnXeC6ks18xb-YvW7KXXW5BPV2ApGs49zNr-7tEENR6nJ8K-kD5JwRX9IcRYIjPEyP_Nw/s400/IMG_0170.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I so wish there wasn't a glare on H's face!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2. We went to the Shelbyville Christmas Parade over the weekend. Where Jack proceeded to dance in the street to every passing band. And pee in the street, pants around his ankles, when he had to go. What?! I snatched that little naked booty up as fast as I could and brought him between the cars. I think we need to work on where it's acceptable to pee outside and where it's not. Like, say for instance, at a parade. Just an example.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ7SuHx0_OPIFC8un8FHcfUp9wVFdn7NVc1NvRlOwViZLMdF9kwMIhYC9YqVvXmysI_jXjOxBxahTH2DPmDuHEAfQ7EdRPk5MvtJsPmXUaQ5g9MqX9xoueeNMU_ELqv0wEj7BnfFHrTkg/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ7SuHx0_OPIFC8un8FHcfUp9wVFdn7NVc1NvRlOwViZLMdF9kwMIhYC9YqVvXmysI_jXjOxBxahTH2DPmDuHEAfQ7EdRPk5MvtJsPmXUaQ5g9MqX9xoueeNMU_ELqv0wEj7BnfFHrTkg/s400/IMG_0195.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3. We've done some decorating for Christmas. Did you know I have a nativity obsession? I love them. Interesting, since I'm not particularly religious, but I just love them. I have seven I think. I seem to get a new one (or new to me, as I've really only ever gotten one *new* one) each year. Jack is o.b.s.e.s.s.e.d with baby Jesus. And likes to give him gifts, such as stuffed mushrooms and Indiana Jones.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI8WRQ0X3zRPl3UQBqsoX4s75dk_BPZNvivTdOl2ElMaIhikwUqmHTie9Mhdv2e5YZ-eIRxtWOWt2SLB6afvhsHkj8Dl8zJ0nl1KatNb-MDjxXkWxQ5LVvIEMeT_huI_Jje-V5Hi_2Hs/s1600/IMG_0137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI8WRQ0X3zRPl3UQBqsoX4s75dk_BPZNvivTdOl2ElMaIhikwUqmHTie9Mhdv2e5YZ-eIRxtWOWt2SLB6afvhsHkj8Dl8zJ0nl1KatNb-MDjxXkWxQ5LVvIEMeT_huI_Jje-V5Hi_2Hs/s400/IMG_0137.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
4. We went to the Christmas tree lighting in our tiny town on Friday. It's pot luck. For the entire town. Yes, I'm serious.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOZMNQPjrsbq706ap2DL4JZHtd16RQ5a6m9BimnA3RGJEgIi65aapsipB6SynVGKr62bpLaROqGD-OMHUG3OVI2EQ40W53viG8k-CCBk3Y-1UPHjyGejnxqVn5996WpZdpCU26UMRJyM/s1600/IMG_0153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOZMNQPjrsbq706ap2DL4JZHtd16RQ5a6m9BimnA3RGJEgIi65aapsipB6SynVGKr62bpLaROqGD-OMHUG3OVI2EQ40W53viG8k-CCBk3Y-1UPHjyGejnxqVn5996WpZdpCU26UMRJyM/s400/IMG_0153.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The boys were really enjoying the candles. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was terrified they would set themselves or someone else on fire.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They just wanted to blow them out and relight them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
123098324102983741 times.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z26oXy-xjeoq6A-2fXi8tp93oPxbpWG4sAJRaOse43TMQRyz37oll3iVZrDJPzgKF-jChSbpmJWzgik8ixpBYqqsn3nRo6BvOFAN5ZEiIk_Xox0yl7h2rJUqVEspj90xyENIcwQH5Qs/s1600/IMG_0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z26oXy-xjeoq6A-2fXi8tp93oPxbpWG4sAJRaOse43TMQRyz37oll3iVZrDJPzgKF-jChSbpmJWzgik8ixpBYqqsn3nRo6BvOFAN5ZEiIk_Xox0yl7h2rJUqVEspj90xyENIcwQH5Qs/s400/IMG_0154.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shortly after that angelic photo was snapped, Santa rolled up. Pulled in his "sleigh" by a man dressed head to toe in camouflage riding a 4-wheeler. I'm going out on a limb here, but I'm guessing that the entrance is what prompted David to loudly proclaim, "That Santa's a FAKE!" Just a guess. David did sit with Santa to have his photo taken. And apparently you can purchase them, but I have no idea how or who to contact because it was a random woman with a camera and a little crumpled up yellow piece of paper taking the photos and names. But no phone numbers. I have no hopes that I'll ever get the picture. Santa wanted Jack to sit next to him and David to sit on his knee (seem odd to anyone else?). David passed on that. And sat on Jack instead. I quickly yanked Jack out from underneath David's rear end, while standing on a hay bale that was used to climb up to Santa's "sleigh", and fell through the crack in the hay bales. Santa watched and said, "Ho, ho! Your mother seems to have fallen." WTF Santa? Give a girl a hand. David sat next to Santa and said, "This is the first year I've sat with you. Did you know that?" Santa said no, like a dumb ass, and David quickly replied, "TOLD YOU! You're fake." This whole magic of Christmas business is quickly coming to light with that little smarty.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtVv1eXzKck5ushpH_Q5TgUAw0ARFkD7JGqcbMu4qhBBq44y2yrbcW4LRyhyphenhyphen_s6-yGN5fLhfVCOjMUsjTO3ObQgZZf8bVzVG9b9G95YCIGlbrazVHRMUKWX_K_gOg7UHBh3Kjd34qSUI/s1600/IMG_0143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtVv1eXzKck5ushpH_Q5TgUAw0ARFkD7JGqcbMu4qhBBq44y2yrbcW4LRyhyphenhyphen_s6-yGN5fLhfVCOjMUsjTO3ObQgZZf8bVzVG9b9G95YCIGlbrazVHRMUKWX_K_gOg7UHBh3Kjd34qSUI/s400/IMG_0143.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH4AuvyizgXvl2Qn7PiVWnLmfAhBS-rTZKVXdiLG58HYUxaIffxqd_TjFBbv_34_QqaBD0qKuP2JJBpIaiqotwumLTCv4tUC96HSThJWfoMGtGSnSeePVpIGDTQD4LI_fmrMrLfqUYXZA/s1600/IMG_0144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH4AuvyizgXvl2Qn7PiVWnLmfAhBS-rTZKVXdiLG58HYUxaIffxqd_TjFBbv_34_QqaBD0qKuP2JJBpIaiqotwumLTCv4tUC96HSThJWfoMGtGSnSeePVpIGDTQD4LI_fmrMrLfqUYXZA/s400/IMG_0144.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvFd5Tw8PETwQ75UYM8L_udrm0J7bXQpElcr89fxP_xXtb73ragizCiuYb1zxsz7VjAQzYPcgcVxa1HjgLDGqvj0fiQCpELN28ON3MiDvxLmbe8OI_c3Aeg8mZO7It2uFay5SuEHZ1EA/s1600/IMG_0145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvFd5Tw8PETwQ75UYM8L_udrm0J7bXQpElcr89fxP_xXtb73ragizCiuYb1zxsz7VjAQzYPcgcVxa1HjgLDGqvj0fiQCpELN28ON3MiDvxLmbe8OI_c3Aeg8mZO7It2uFay5SuEHZ1EA/s400/IMG_0145.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
5. OK so I love Christmas decorations. I have up four trees - one in our entry (first photo), one in the playroom (second photo), one in the guest room (third photo) and one in the living room (no photo). We have several other smaller potted trees all throughout the house. We were going to cut our main tree down on Saturday. I suggested, as we walked out the door, that Chris just call to verify the tree farm is open. Oh it will be - in 2012. Just a marketing thought - they may want to include that on their WEBSITE! Instead, we went to a farm stand and picked a tree. And David swore we were going to cut it down. Not sure how he didn't put it together that just a few months ago we purchased ferns from the very spot the Christmas trees were growing through the concrete, but whatever. So we've put our tree up and Jack has only broken two ornaments. Not bad since it's only been up for 48 hours. At this rate there will be none left by December 26th.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6. We overdosed on Santa this weekend. We went to Bell Buckle to a pottery place for some paint your own pottery fun. Clearly, as I brought three boys under the age of 8 into a store where every.single.thing is breakable, I use the "paint your own pottery fun" phrase sarcastically. Jack, little lothario that he is, macked on the girl who works there the entire time we were there. He asked her to bring him to go potty. Um, not happening. When we left he had to "just tell her one more important fing." He turned around, stuck his head in the door, and yelled, "I LOVE YOU!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInHt7env0-v-TkACC2gX6fJFIU7knQj7Bfg7T6wYRPDwoTbnVjQSnGf6MmJPJlIEEv7gup13DgqW9YvZgxU0FQoWtJfmJkvjaNkE_XUYq8SY3EnzJ-_N41ESXfSR99BGJAvdUsVAB_eE/s1600/IMG_0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInHt7env0-v-TkACC2gX6fJFIU7knQj7Bfg7T6wYRPDwoTbnVjQSnGf6MmJPJlIEEv7gup13DgqW9YvZgxU0FQoWtJfmJkvjaNkE_XUYq8SY3EnzJ-_N41ESXfSR99BGJAvdUsVAB_eE/s400/IMG_0162.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg09UDlNJ9LEPEZp2e-dUVUT7aGXmJBNG5uXXP1dj5_lUQ6wmKTXg5ol1e6BJ-xmN2dJVey3EqVpyqkkgFR-bExU7-K8vn7y85kPZV799e1AsXhunQd5xwh6Ip8tw7zASUSaoehR0RGAI/s1600/IMG_0163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg09UDlNJ9LEPEZp2e-dUVUT7aGXmJBNG5uXXP1dj5_lUQ6wmKTXg5ol1e6BJ-xmN2dJVey3EqVpyqkkgFR-bExU7-K8vn7y85kPZV799e1AsXhunQd5xwh6Ip8tw7zASUSaoehR0RGAI/s400/IMG_0163.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
7. After pottery, we <strike><i>chased all of our children as they ran in different directions, acting like they never go out in public and it was the first time they ever saw anything outside of the walls of their home and I wondered why the hell I don't force them all into some sort of enormous triple stroller that I push while drinking Jack Daniels from a flask I hide in my coat</i></strike> strolled around Bell Buckle and enjoyed the old fashioned Christmas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBu_nv6dn4eTbQ41KcY9-90QRKp44zbprM0rHAsSzSsBu-p7XCcEr5srqXq3K4O_KPw3TE8xbHgb3kYzBYBl0HQqgehxojOcjiHFoZNGbZU6LB5j8HzubvA0-eV5Yvr26WTNT1nz0-9E/s1600/IMG_0166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBu_nv6dn4eTbQ41KcY9-90QRKp44zbprM0rHAsSzSsBu-p7XCcEr5srqXq3K4O_KPw3TE8xbHgb3kYzBYBl0HQqgehxojOcjiHFoZNGbZU6LB5j8HzubvA0-eV5Yvr26WTNT1nz0-9E/s400/IMG_0166.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There were carolers. And David asked, not quietly, WHY ARE THEY DRESSED LIKE THAT?! They were really great, and Jack sang along.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We took a carriage ride driven by Santa and his horse. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1h3rewbkihMK2KffVnAgs4PDpm4GwsXMzT6AgeBlLCpXIcHFB3eVxQNUV7spcZN36p7dB6rAhJoFc_0WCYlY4fgE0t7t2z4yt9peTHHNL4SDXejV2ls1f8svS6v-NyNH2Wv-PYN5xAo/s1600/IMG_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1h3rewbkihMK2KffVnAgs4PDpm4GwsXMzT6AgeBlLCpXIcHFB3eVxQNUV7spcZN36p7dB6rAhJoFc_0WCYlY4fgE0t7t2z4yt9peTHHNL4SDXejV2ls1f8svS6v-NyNH2Wv-PYN5xAo/s400/IMG_0167.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZn3Fsx_SpxsvlDgyMnKcfzLwu6YnkHZElmzsiMs-vNfzpqUmgf8pptr3rVxeSKIlXoIAASQ9D7Rcdt7lbdlyLwcsX9cAClv0cXcFkgZVyoJ7Rwg2ZFJITy2Tox1au4uKgqVJox2dQxg/s1600/IMG_0165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZn3Fsx_SpxsvlDgyMnKcfzLwu6YnkHZElmzsiMs-vNfzpqUmgf8pptr3rVxeSKIlXoIAASQ9D7Rcdt7lbdlyLwcsX9cAClv0cXcFkgZVyoJ7Rwg2ZFJITy2Tox1au4uKgqVJox2dQxg/s400/IMG_0165.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAcD4UrVvbupsVpsyStDtr9X86j8pp_R6IgMTGokT_EbN2VpFJCKXv0633d_A5DZ_Dmayyo5XMHO7pYqWoasXRa8T927RaNqCu9JJ9sZK6yeyumRqwJNx42a-svVQEyDyUZcLKTzUuD4/s1600/IMG_0168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAcD4UrVvbupsVpsyStDtr9X86j8pp_R6IgMTGokT_EbN2VpFJCKXv0633d_A5DZ_Dmayyo5XMHO7pYqWoasXRa8T927RaNqCu9JJ9sZK6yeyumRqwJNx42a-svVQEyDyUZcLKTzUuD4/s400/IMG_0168.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David looks thrilled to be with me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV3mxQ6OqqTvLS3_kNw-Ugzd3AiOwZWJ3R2FULAIAA3llkedDSWGe9W-dCGK4dkuWyrr-kQrD0ouNdB_rT40Jymxj9vgemEB5AqQilxypjhfUZ50_r7kyMYs-4v1mudwesCHlRl8U0xso/s1600/IMG_0169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV3mxQ6OqqTvLS3_kNw-Ugzd3AiOwZWJ3R2FULAIAA3llkedDSWGe9W-dCGK4dkuWyrr-kQrD0ouNdB_rT40Jymxj9vgemEB5AqQilxypjhfUZ50_r7kyMYs-4v1mudwesCHlRl8U0xso/s400/IMG_0169.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
8. I have two more Christmas gifts to purchase. And lots to wrap. We have literally three closets, and nowhere to store Christmas presents. Please don't steal my car, because you will steal my children's Christmas. Each of the gifts that is not wrapped, which is all of them but 1 - let's be honest, is in the trunk of my car. Every night I'm going to wrap them. . . </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
9. My office does limited work hours for the support staff during the two weeks of Christmas and New Year's. Because let's be honest - not many people file for divorce the week before Christmas. I *have* to work two days. I plan to work more because I want to finish year end stuff just in case we travel to Katie's country in January. One of the days I have to work? Like literally have to because the other girls will be out of town? They day of the breakfast with Santa at school. Sometimes I hate being a grown up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
10. Speaking of work, I am so, so stressed about it right now. Finishing the year end stuff, reconciling all of the accounts, finishing up my book keeping, getting things taken care of with limited available court days - it stresses me out to the max. Like, as in I've been up since 1:00 this morning stress.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
11. I'm trying a Key Lime Pie cupcake recipe for Friday. They were the cupcakes requested by my boss for his birthday. I am excited to try them - I think they'll be great.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
12. Our dossier has been sent to Katie's country for translation! YAHOO! Don't get too excited. It will probably be at least another two months before we go to see her. :(</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have a great Tuesday!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-74592726409363530272011-11-28T20:37:00.001-06:002011-11-28T20:40:46.206-06:00And the Oscar Goes To. . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46F3eWJ1CzPiFAjaDvi5zwqWf7J_jE76GwWpMlLHC6TZ7qu-HVgcYQcJUiVbJ4ssLqvJueCGUdXNxk7j41SSG8aD33ejGKt7q9DBD2D4KWqkhDtLjsVaeCrHks1g6frvogW-P7t1BB88/s1600/IMG_0107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46F3eWJ1CzPiFAjaDvi5zwqWf7J_jE76GwWpMlLHC6TZ7qu-HVgcYQcJUiVbJ4ssLqvJueCGUdXNxk7j41SSG8aD33ejGKt7q9DBD2D4KWqkhDtLjsVaeCrHks1g6frvogW-P7t1BB88/s400/IMG_0107.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This little star found out today that he got a part in the school play.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What part, you may ask?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilp5Br8c-JsifQJQml8wzot8Hc81FijTorCAfrFzBLwXyvQjg4Z583rMzvwVxI6o4sUNDvpaz_8R_1QZWI1N_wvWJladT8xXahTVjO1qhzzgPfJli3f-K44X4w4BONvyz1yuhxeTcRh-Y/s1600/ompa+lumpa+menbbb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilp5Br8c-JsifQJQml8wzot8Hc81FijTorCAfrFzBLwXyvQjg4Z583rMzvwVxI6o4sUNDvpaz_8R_1QZWI1N_wvWJladT8xXahTVjO1qhzzgPfJli3f-K44X4w4BONvyz1yuhxeTcRh-Y/s400/ompa+lumpa+menbbb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh yes - he will be an Oompa Loompa. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I. Love. This.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I cannot explain to you how happy it makes my heart that he even tried out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
David could not, until this year, get through a school performance (Christmas, Veteran's day, etc.) without squeezing his eyes tightly shut and clamping his hands over his ears. He would not go to a loud birthday party. He would freeze outside of a Christmas party and hide under a table.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And he tried out for the play.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And he GOT A PART!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Is the the star of the show? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No. But he is trying. And that is all that matters.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He has the confidence and the desire to try to be a part of it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He's not afraid it will be too loud or that people will look at him.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He's not afraid to be part of the group.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He <i>wants</i> to be part of the group and to be with his friends.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Friends he made all by himself - not friends who were the children of my friends.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This boy has come a long, long way, and I am so incredibly proud of him.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Prediction: I will cry like a baby to see him perform on stage in his play!</div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4129432344787027619.post-24924899666656258212011-11-27T19:38:00.001-06:002011-11-27T19:44:20.798-06:00Thanksgiving Goodies<div style="text-align: center;">
I made two new recipes for Thanksgiving. I'm not quite sure why, but I like to try new recipes when I'm having a group of people over to eat. . . so far so good, although it's admittedly a risky thing to do. What can I say? I live on the edge!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The first one I made was Nutter Butter Nutella Pie. Um, yum! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_-TSKkJsrRc-3tZSrkeLH7jBlp1TCEm2jllxXQ0M60pVsNyHhjpE78p3WIW1Q5WC8YGsIgXZL1N9XHoxRu492htF-8e1Y1sXGsyFBDf4x3N_7P2wvIIAi1snDIG-TOG6zwroigIGlfI/s1600/no-bake-nutter-butter-nutella-pie-cropped-410x307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_-TSKkJsrRc-3tZSrkeLH7jBlp1TCEm2jllxXQ0M60pVsNyHhjpE78p3WIW1Q5WC8YGsIgXZL1N9XHoxRu492htF-8e1Y1sXGsyFBDf4x3N_7P2wvIIAi1snDIG-TOG6zwroigIGlfI/s400/no-bake-nutter-butter-nutella-pie-cropped-410x307.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I originally found this recipe on <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a>, which seems to be where I find everything I want to do, make, eat, wear, and decorate with. This is super easy to make, and you can find the recipe at <a href="http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/desserts/no-bake-nutter-butter-nutella-pie/">tastykitchen.com</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The second recipe was a total last minute decision. Because I tasted some the day before Thanksgiving and knew I had to make it! It was Paula Deen's white chocolate key lime mousse pie. A mouthful, I know. And a weird combination, but it totally works!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimMjxw5mzKaMwYlvvcIaGUD9rE5vh4VtInargD2f1tVJm17d0ZVb9bOEVoJLjSZjSeUEYX3UXjl2GnEK4xRmGBhV8iCemMuDTweeipk_XL7C09Mikus6iY7DxkQaDpRwGDEaKFKwtle3k/s1600/PB0509_key-lime-mousse-pie_s4x3_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimMjxw5mzKaMwYlvvcIaGUD9rE5vh4VtInargD2f1tVJm17d0ZVb9bOEVoJLjSZjSeUEYX3UXjl2GnEK4xRmGBhV8iCemMuDTweeipk_XL7C09Mikus6iY7DxkQaDpRwGDEaKFKwtle3k/s400/PB0509_key-lime-mousse-pie_s4x3_lg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is not difficult, but is more laborious than the Nutella pie. I would say this is a medium skilled dessert, merely because there are more steps. It's yummy though, and worth a shot! The recipe can be found at the <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/key-lime-mousse-pie-recipe/index.html">Food Network website.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Enjoy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16710417701918440850noreply@blogger.com1