tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15139320124498526602024-02-18T20:06:10.836-08:00Peachy KeenAndyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-34999380657063809672015-02-23T06:48:00.000-08:002015-02-23T06:48:00.052-08:00Coconut Butterscotch Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxFus2wHwr06tmNbH7G3GJ-GdL6Vhm0QTolcGHM8Wwp8hfEh39V1tWTkw34ppbYrbHp0G6NFKGGWj_2AyA3Sdsqsvse1Y_afKc5hmXNtk88LZBewOr5WZCFK8eutdEIXxFld7Roqdwsg/s1600/coconut+butterscotch+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxFus2wHwr06tmNbH7G3GJ-GdL6Vhm0QTolcGHM8Wwp8hfEh39V1tWTkw34ppbYrbHp0G6NFKGGWj_2AyA3Sdsqsvse1Y_afKc5hmXNtk88LZBewOr5WZCFK8eutdEIXxFld7Roqdwsg/s1600/coconut+butterscotch+cookies.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Growing up, more often than not, Sunday evenings were for watching AFV and making cookies as a family. (I'm 99.9% sure my mom took on the brunt of the work and was the one that actually made the cookies and cleaned it all up. Thanks, Mom!) Our arsenal of cookie recipes contained 3 fail-proof recipes bound to satisfy a greater percentage of the 7 (yes, 7!) of us: No-Bake Cookies, classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Oatmeal "Scotchies."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I was home this past New Year's, we decided to make our favorite Oatmeal "Scotchies" and mix it up a bit by adding some shredded coconut. I'm of the opinion that coconut can make anything better. Hot chocolate, cookies, Hawaiian Haystacks, life in general. (I also believe that cinnamon can do the same thing, but that deserves it's own post one day.) If you love Butterscotch Oatmeal Cookies, I can promise you that they're even better with this addition!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ingredients:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1 1/4 c. flour</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1 t. baking soda</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1/2 t. salt</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1/2 t. cinnamon</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1 c. butter</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>3/4 c. sugar</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>3/4 c. packed brown sugar</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>2 large eggs</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1 t. vanilla</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>3 c. quick or old-fashioned oats</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1/2 c. shredded coconut </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1 1/2 - 2 c. butterscotch chips</i> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Directions:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. Beat butter, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. Add flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until combined.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. Add oats, coconut, and butterscotch chips and mix by hand.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5. Drop by spoonful onto baking sheet. Bake for 8-9 minutes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
6. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes and then transfer them to a wire cooling rack.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Enjoy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Recipe adapted from Nestle.</span></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-13891998076649321812015-02-18T05:45:00.000-08:002015-02-18T05:45:00.275-08:00FREE St. Patrick's Day Printables<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04j8v_WCWIpsa-94OpdgHG5eSx3FQaFl3EFe73lJSyQ3bCr5DT07E9othniSILGbWjtEDmFvJ3nK8z_pWEZ7RpvGhQBVQjGXN0-aKNwyyB2npeGFTeCOBaIKgjUKcNg_MyAoYDPEkK5c/s1600/StPatricksPrintable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="FREE St. Patrick's Day Printables from Peachy Keen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04j8v_WCWIpsa-94OpdgHG5eSx3FQaFl3EFe73lJSyQ3bCr5DT07E9othniSILGbWjtEDmFvJ3nK8z_pWEZ7RpvGhQBVQjGXN0-aKNwyyB2npeGFTeCOBaIKgjUKcNg_MyAoYDPEkK5c/s1600/StPatricksPrintable.jpg" height="640" title="" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
8x10 printable <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOgXE2d9SNAd2ExV0pkWURGeWM/view?usp=sharing">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwEm9bFcY3Xb9x4Q5n7e_vd29xhus1i8NoGrcf5QJzPfeEx3bNPGImcqhXTDMgxmlB6vvCjNdohEDU0LqMxspkKhacKFcicYCaHvzFBdvbxyVUNc3iA3Iic4XGRppkSCXBuFpybzyzqA/s1600/StPatricksPrintable3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="FREE St. Patrick's Day Printables from Peachy Keen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwEm9bFcY3Xb9x4Q5n7e_vd29xhus1i8NoGrcf5QJzPfeEx3bNPGImcqhXTDMgxmlB6vvCjNdohEDU0LqMxspkKhacKFcicYCaHvzFBdvbxyVUNc3iA3Iic4XGRppkSCXBuFpybzyzqA/s1600/StPatricksPrintable3.jpg" height="640" title="" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
8x10 printable <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOgXE2d9SNAcndwS1RUcnh2bEk/view?usp=sharing">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Another holiday, another printables post! I was super excited all of last week to decorate my mantle in greens and gold, and may or may not have taken down all of my pink and red decor on Valentine's Day. (Is that allowed?? Ha.) I can't wait to share some easy as pie St. Patrick's Day crafts over the next few weeks. Just picture with me some easy to make buntings (even easier than <a href="http://apeachykeenblog.blogspot.com/2015/01/easy-diy-heart-garland.html">this DIY</a>!), rainbow treats, and probably some gold glitter because <i>why not? </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Happy Wednesday, friends! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-91943929372719141802015-02-16T06:53:00.000-08:002015-02-16T07:12:53.052-08:00Coconut Crack Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qEqlNzQPqB9Y0jJOh4k799cgpqdlVPbHZZubpWfNW35QBljdA12ma7tfMfyzOK_uG8FcLNPbbXEsif5u0hhIjz09oi5AMTYLKCL85DQD6mFwx-n1zdTsRrgprCN9ZJ3p_IXF9LY-bTk/s1600/coconut+crack+bars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qEqlNzQPqB9Y0jJOh4k799cgpqdlVPbHZZubpWfNW35QBljdA12ma7tfMfyzOK_uG8FcLNPbbXEsif5u0hhIjz09oi5AMTYLKCL85DQD6mFwx-n1zdTsRrgprCN9ZJ3p_IXF9LY-bTk/s1600/coconut+crack+bars.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
If you've been to this corner of the internet before, you've probably realized that I'm all about things being easy and not taking a lot of time. Easy crafts, easy makeup tips, easy recipes, etc. Well, my friends, I can promise you that this is one of the easiest treats you could ever make - 5 ingredients and no baking! If you're a big fan of coconut, like myself, you will be over the moon for this treat. My coworker brought in these bars to share a few weeks ago and I immediately asked her for the recipe. . .they're <i>that</i> good!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1 c. unsweetened shredded coconut<br />
1/4 c. agave<br />
2 T. coconut oil<br />
1/2 t. vanilla<br />
1/8 t. salt<br />
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
1. Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl.<br />
2. Scoop mixture into a small container and smooth it out evenly.<br />
3. Refrigerate for an hour before cutting squares.<br />
<br />
Note: I microwaved some peanut butter and chocolate together and drizzled it on top of the bars. I'd highly recommend it!<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">-----------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.sewcando.com/">Sew Can Do</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.dwellinginhappiness.com/motivational-monday-24/">Dwelling in Happiness</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.niftythriftythings.com/nifty-thrifty-sunday-190/">Nifty Thrifty Things</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.flourmewithlove.com/">Flour Me With Love</a></span></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-31736068043350163632015-02-13T05:37:00.000-08:002015-02-13T05:37:00.269-08:00Netflix Favorites <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcbALrU9lpGIWrNCHoSIeRE5BdgpPMoAF8xqKs6zSJmMHE5hvmT4VqCN7cIEW9PGzbnSzRpqB9cJMzd51KWCzInwFzIgisynCEXV_FsNFRPr09dFi2hIlxnTeIc5A5VVeSX74Km48l3U/s1600/NETFLIX+favorites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcbALrU9lpGIWrNCHoSIeRE5BdgpPMoAF8xqKs6zSJmMHE5hvmT4VqCN7cIEW9PGzbnSzRpqB9cJMzd51KWCzInwFzIgisynCEXV_FsNFRPr09dFi2hIlxnTeIc5A5VVeSX74Km48l3U/s1600/NETFLIX+favorites.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Andy's Recommendations:</b><br />
1. <i>Drop Dead Diva. </i>The show's premise: a selfish fashion model dies in a car accident and is reincarnated as a plus-sized lawyer, and only she and her guardian angel are aware of what happened. I know, I know. It does not sound fabulous. But it is fabulous & charming & good pass-the-time TV. Think <i>Legally Blonde </i>meets <i>Suits </i>meets typical romantic drama.<br />
<br />
2. <i>Cupcake Wars. </i>Once you've completed the <i>Chopped</i> episodes offered on Netflix, give this show a try. The collection features 25 of the best cupcake showdowns in the popular Food Network series. Each episode will have you itching to find a way to incorporate bleu cheese and pastrami into delicious desserts. These people are bakery wizards.<br />
<br />
3. <i>Better Off Ted. </i> This show demonstrates a quirky, witty sense of humor and quickly became one of my favorites. Unfortunately, there are only two funny seasons to savor, so you'll only get to enjoy Portia de Rossi and Jay Harrington for 26 episodes. It takes place in the often unethical and irreverent offices of Veridian Dynamics, a company who develops a plethora of unusual products. (Also, shout out to the movie <i>Better Off Dead, </i>one of the best comedies ever.)<br />
<br />
4. <i>Friends. </i>One of my favorite childhood memories involves sitting in my mother's old home office watching the series finale of <i>Friends </i>back in 2004. If I could only watch one thing on repeat for the rest of forever, it would be this. Take advantage of all TEN seasons now available on Netflix.<br />
<br />
5. <i>Agents of Shield. </i>This show follows Agent Coulson, a character killed by villain Loki in <i>The Avengers, </i>and his team of SHIELD agents as they endeavor to take down various persons and organizations that threaten international peace. It starts a little slow, but the writers create so many incredibly suspenseful plot twists that you, like me, will create a count down for the next season to premier come this March. Only season 1 is available on Netflix, but get started now!<br />
<br />
<b>Lex's Recommendations:</b><br />
<br />
1. <i>Sherlock</i>. Hands down the best series I've watched in a long time. It's the perfect amount of mystery and humor, and I can't get over the English accents! My husband and I have really enjoyed the fact that it's set it today's world - imagine just how far Sherlock Holmes could get with technology! 3 seasons currently available.<br />
<br />
2. <i>Parks & Recreation</i>. If you're a fan of The Office or dry humor, this series is for you. Leslie Knope and Ron Swanson will quickly win over your heart with their quirks and big hearts, and you'll want to binge watch all 5 seasons (unfortunately, season 6 isn't yet available) in one weekend. Prepare yourself for the onslaught of great one-liners and quotes you'll use for the rest of your life. <br />
<br />
3.<i> Call the Midwife. </i>For those of you who are fans of <i>Downton Abbey</i>, you'll enjoy this British period drama series. Following Jenny, a recently trained midwife, and her coworkers/best friends, the series does a great job of documenting what giving birth would have been like during the 1950s. I love how different each episode is and the various characters that show up throughout the series (3 seasons).<br />
<br />
4. <i>Gilmore Girls</i>. I have to admit, I'm throwing this one on the list without having first finishing the series. (To be honest, I'm still in the second season!) The show is about the daily happenings of a single mother and her teenage daughter. I absolutely love their dynamic and how applicable the show is because of both the happy and frustrating things that happen through the episodes. There are 7 seasons in all!<br />
<br />
5. <i>Psych. </i>Shawn Spencer is a guy who was taught to notice the smallest of details as a child. One day, he realizes that he can commission out his talent to solve crimes, and he quickly ropes his best friend, Gus, into it all. Their escapades as they take on different cases will evoke all of your emotions, but mostly you should be prepared to laugh through all 8 seasons.Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-43029355510737095972015-02-12T09:56:00.000-08:002015-02-12T09:56:38.632-08:00 60+ Fun and Fabulous Date Ideas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Date night with my husband is my favorite way to kick-off the weekend, and I look forward to Friday night all week long as I'm dealing with grumpy hospital patients or mindlessly entering data. I'm always up for trying a new restaurant (or visiting an old favorite), but I love doing things that we haven't done before, too! For example, we scored some cheap tickets to watch our first hockey game together, and I'm hoping I can convince my husband we need to make it to the symphony this year. ;)<br />
<br />
Here are some of my favorite date night ideas!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFZO9yessEgMr7a8NuVaRjjhZ9iIzXThVWwAOCxH-PXVYw0O1-THWUzpDpD6NtHmeKTx2aBQeYVfJWxCMFn8DUrWeefANSYum0FTMeK0RMlMklu0TVr8S4zyi5QaPRCihcEKKXDCEOQU/s1600/free+dates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFZO9yessEgMr7a8NuVaRjjhZ9iIzXThVWwAOCxH-PXVYw0O1-THWUzpDpD6NtHmeKTx2aBQeYVfJWxCMFn8DUrWeefANSYum0FTMeK0RMlMklu0TVr8S4zyi5QaPRCihcEKKXDCEOQU/s1600/free+dates.jpg" height="157" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to your local library or Barnes & Noble, find an interesting book to read, and plop down in a comfy chair.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">See if your community puts on free outdoor movies or plays in the park, and hit up one of those!</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Pick a movie to watch at home and make a
themed dinner and/or dessert to go along with it. For example: Watch
Napoleon Dynamite, serve tater tots and some "dang quesadillas," and
have a dance party. Don't forget your chapstick!</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go for a hike.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Find a new bike trail and go for a ride.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Take your laptop to the park and watch a movie. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Create a photo scavenger hunt list and find those items/people together. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Decorate your home for the next upcoming holiday.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to "Italy." Eat a home-cooked
Italian meal, find an Italian Pandora station, and paint like
Michelangelo (tape paper to the underside of your kitchen table, but
don't forget to wear shirts that you don't mind getting paint on!).</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go sledding. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Play board games.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Build a fort. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Put on a movie but mute it and speed up
the time just a little. Together, you create the dialogue for what the
characters are saying. You'll be rolling on the floor in tears in no
time! </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Play dress-up at your local thrift store. Put together funny outfits for each other.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Create a little fire outside and make s'mores.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Ask each other <a href="http://thoughtcatalog.com/christine-stockton/2013/08/50-questions-to-ask-your-crush-to-see-if-theyre-right-for-you/">these questions</a> while stargazing.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Find a pond and feed the ducks.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Check out the local farmer's market and sample different foods.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Hit up a fair or festival going on in your area.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Volunteer together at a community event.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">"Camp" in your backyard for a few
hours. Pull out camp chairs, tell ghost stories, make s'mores, enjoy the
stars, then pack it all up when you're done.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Download a stargazing app and see how many constellations you can find.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Find out if your community hosts any free 5k runs and do that together.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Have a YouTube night - take turns sharing your favorite funny clips with each other.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Look at the pictures on each others' phones and tell the stories behind the photos (or reminisce if you were both there).</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Walk around a free art museum or gallery.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go fishing.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Look up free tourist attractions in your city and tour one you've never been to before.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Do a puzzle, but don't forget some snacks!</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Learn how to say phrases in another language.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">If you have a GPS, go geocaching.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to the gym together or play on a playground.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Check out <a href="http://ancestry.com/">ancestry.com</a> and read up on each others' extended family.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Stop at garage sales or estate sales, just to see what interesting things you can find. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Read a book out loud together.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Sc762uEgcnfavCyU3PWIPWZyUuLatF1nb1uljMDeKGnKyGvjKRxDPdl8qKIP4VjVAYCfyrqxR4nsCaD66_5PBDm9wSNgs0yg-yuc4uRLnbe2unyKLLHZ-VBB6ID4yh8a1-jF5hqcBPE/s1600/$5+dates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Sc762uEgcnfavCyU3PWIPWZyUuLatF1nb1uljMDeKGnKyGvjKRxDPdl8qKIP4VjVAYCfyrqxR4nsCaD66_5PBDm9wSNgs0yg-yuc4uRLnbe2unyKLLHZ-VBB6ID4yh8a1-jF5hqcBPE/s1600/$5+dates.jpg" height="157" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Split a meal (take-out) and watch a movie at home.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to a dollar movie and share some popcorn.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Grab a $5 footlong sandwich from Subway and go for a picnic in the park. Don't forget a baseball and mitts!</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Buy a small bouquet of flowers from your local grocery store and pass out flowers to people on the street who need a pick-me-up.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Buy a strange ingredient from the store and come up with a recipe using that item.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Make cookies together and deliver them to friends. (Doorbell ditch them, obviously!)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Find some postcards of your city and send them to friends or family.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Walk along Main Street in your town and grab a small treat from a shop you've never been to before.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Have a little fondue party with just the two of you.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJpAa1wm4OWksHpO97QR5VfHW471GANe8_1nRMd8XuCuNSo3AXZH8F7zDaKQqWq7KAJAVW8QGxVw3fWUHIG3fwJ-y7f_IaRL2R230ySvyfSWMbkxoP_Tu5tF_EsfM9M-chOeMpoh7h_As/s1600/$10+dates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJpAa1wm4OWksHpO97QR5VfHW471GANe8_1nRMd8XuCuNSo3AXZH8F7zDaKQqWq7KAJAVW8QGxVw3fWUHIG3fwJ-y7f_IaRL2R230ySvyfSWMbkxoP_Tu5tF_EsfM9M-chOeMpoh7h_As/s1600/$10+dates.jpg" height="157" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go swimming at a community pool.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go ice skating or classic skating.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Check out a local high school's play.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Mini golf.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Rent a paddle boat or a canoe and take it for a spin around a lake or pond.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Buy a small (cheap!) piece of furniture
off of Craigslist and fix it up together. (For example: a rocking
chair, a nightstand, a small table, a bench, etc.)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Find a local restaurant that has live music on certain nights and get a meal or treat to share.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to a planetarium (find out if they have discounted nights/hours).</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Pick your own fruit at an orchard.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Buy a disposable camera and snap
pictures of the two of you (yes, selfies) in random places. Get the
pictures developed and put the photos up around your home.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Plant some flowers in your yard. If you're renting, plant them in planters for your porch or inside.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to the pet store and pick out a fish together. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4OcvehSHqpyzeGVQtQ9ONBa36X2DeIgnPhTTSG5SnOYz87xXZjVos3ze-qgGM5a30vRERiN3WyPI5aWwNsfbQfIF2mQCBxI9sbK2k5bcA6J0O_FoDpfID2EKSnHHYhr_bJYHwGLnpLo/s1600/$20+dates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4OcvehSHqpyzeGVQtQ9ONBa36X2DeIgnPhTTSG5SnOYz87xXZjVos3ze-qgGM5a30vRERiN3WyPI5aWwNsfbQfIF2mQCBxI9sbK2k5bcA6J0O_FoDpfID2EKSnHHYhr_bJYHwGLnpLo/s1600/$20+dates.jpg" height="157" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to a comedy club show.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go bowling.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Check out the zoo if you have one nearby.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Try indoor rock climbing.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Have a progressive fast food dinner.
Fries at one place, burgers at the second, a shake at the last (or
whatever kind of fast food you want!). </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Take a community class together (cooking, art, dancing, etc.)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go camping.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Go to the shooting range or take a class.</li>
</ul>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-15874614356004011712015-02-05T08:24:00.000-08:002015-02-05T08:24:38.228-08:00Hip Hip Hooray.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4r_CzSHSTh7G3MqxiJ9gBApIghVeMvyrq-QX9EL7vIhyphenhyphenwLl0Tj7NTOw4D5FV-swaxXF5J9WqndlEQLV7tdtBs930iIPzjDW-sJK_1ARGOdT1x69wgSVW42_cSNsHc5vHXHlAbbpNK2nqD/s1600/baby.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4r_CzSHSTh7G3MqxiJ9gBApIghVeMvyrq-QX9EL7vIhyphenhyphenwLl0Tj7NTOw4D5FV-swaxXF5J9WqndlEQLV7tdtBs930iIPzjDW-sJK_1ARGOdT1x69wgSVW42_cSNsHc5vHXHlAbbpNK2nqD/s1600/baby.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Expecting our first little nugget to show up sometime in September. Hooray!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Life lately has been ginger ale bottles, swollen toes, morning naps, and a strong avoidance to cheese & cologne. My natural spaciness has reached impressive levels. Yesterday I stood in front of my door for a full three minutes, trying desperately to unlock it with the buttons for my sedan.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mamas everywhere, please throw all of your pregnancy advice at me. I've been lucky in having my entire work department full of beautiful expecting ladies, and I spend most shifts throwing a thousand questions at them. (How do you fight insomnia/nausea/constipation? What in the world is a glucose test? Babies can be born with TEETH?) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyways. We're all sorts of excited over here. Happy Thursday! </div>
Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-46917462502200840802015-01-31T07:00:00.000-08:002015-01-31T07:00:04.686-08:00January Book - Seriously...I'm Kidding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgar5vRjP54-XXo0Y_4tBstRQ4oaYB-aXWWnkFfFQSSVoTVryzyNVzEcWeM-59PHxEtoPMuNN6uVvTK5G5WpZss5DW-JtpVAaZ86sDZgSkwOmNIlOxQLVo7QyHbfTn-6uk0BpIcrhLu5lI/s1600/seriously.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgar5vRjP54-XXo0Y_4tBstRQ4oaYB-aXWWnkFfFQSSVoTVryzyNVzEcWeM-59PHxEtoPMuNN6uVvTK5G5WpZss5DW-JtpVAaZ86sDZgSkwOmNIlOxQLVo7QyHbfTn-6uk0BpIcrhLu5lI/s1600/seriously.jpeg" height="640" width="396" /></a> </div>
<b>Lex's Review:</b><br />
After religiously watching Ellen's show each day at 2 pm during my brief stint of unemployment, I was rather excited to read one of her books when Andy presented the idea. I went into it thinking that it would probably 1) make me laugh, and 2) be a whole lot of nothing mixed in with important somethings. Both were correct assumptions.<br />
<br />
As I suspected, I found myself laughing out loud as Ellen told funny stories about completely random things. (If you like structure and books that flow, don't read this book. If you're looking for a comical point of view on serious things in life, this is probably something you'd like.) One of my favorite parts of her whole book was towards the beginning when she was talking about the beauty standards that our culture holds us to. In between jokes, she gives the reader a giant, fat gold nugget of truth. "Beauty is being comfortable with who you are." I couldn't agree more. I'd give <i>Seriously...I'm Kidding</i> 5 out of 5 stars for making me continuously laugh and for the many perfect one-liners.<br />
<br />
<b>Andy's Review:</b><br />
<br />
I admire Ellen for her humor, incredible generosity, and for <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyhaJFi1rLg">this prank</a> on T-Swift. Her latest book incorporated her quick wit and comedic timing into easy writing (although, listening to her read it on audiobook is also an entertaining option). Being the kind of person that judges a book by its cover, I knew I'd love this number from the get go.<br />
<br />
The topics read like a series of stand-up routines. Ellen hilariously covers everything from haikus to gift giving, interlaced with true snippets of applicable wisdom. I loved nearly everything she had to say, except maybe the bit about kale, because I refuse to eat anything leafy and bitter. I highly recommend adding this gem to your reading list--it'll have you laughing by the end of the first chapter. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
February's book is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blackmoore-Proper-Romances-Julianne-Donaldson/dp/1609074602/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1421779316&sr=1-1&keywords=blackmore">Blackmoore by Julianne Donaldson</a>.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> </b></div>
<b>"</b>Kate Worthington knows her heart and she
knows she will never marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead if
only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she
abhors. But Kate s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a
bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured and
rejected three marriage proposals.<br />
<br />
<div id="iframeContent">
Kate journeys to the stately
manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain sooner
rather than later and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend,
Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are
meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of
Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive.
Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing
that will set her heart free?<br />
<br />
Set in Northern England in 1820,
Blackmoore is a regency romance that tells the story of a young woman
struggling to learn how to follow her heart."</div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-89204122145274978032015-01-28T06:53:00.001-08:002015-01-28T07:13:49.842-08:00Easy DIY Heart Garland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5J-b_aQj7pq6qTXIhtPlVSM0e1ZCxMM25zcp9acC566M7Ge1EKzgUF0ibwOoLYhIkOa897ZxV7dKgFnGiKED_XLYEyMv4LftILal5-Ma7qKVR2Z2-ZCi5KW9i-Sb-Fi9covMBsp4gvYM/s1600/heartgarland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5J-b_aQj7pq6qTXIhtPlVSM0e1ZCxMM25zcp9acC566M7Ge1EKzgUF0ibwOoLYhIkOa897ZxV7dKgFnGiKED_XLYEyMv4LftILal5-Ma7qKVR2Z2-ZCi5KW9i-Sb-Fi9covMBsp4gvYM/s1600/heartgarland.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
Well, I finally did it! I took down the Christmas tree and all of the Christmas decorations. Ha. The task was (way!) overdue, but for the longest time I couldn't bring myself to pull out all of the boxes and take the time to pack it up. I decided I would turn on my favorite TV show and pack up as much as I could in the time that it took to get through two episodes. Hurriedly, I collected decor from all over the apartment and finished just before two episodes had finished. It was then that I came to this conclusion: I definitely didn't want to overdecorate for anything else this year because cleaning up is no fun. As a result, I decided to keep Valentine's Day decor pretty minimal.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3V6o8CxOpu8-OrBsQFonby_8ZMn5N-G7npKOjP4nW_K-CURIMYlE28aWzF0B0Padxt2jRWxpkWLBsyIoB7baO01m_fSCPEsH3JPe9XNOMkFp1HHmdFrpJXTr9cOP0hUtuBjPcnrkCbo/s1600/valentines2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3V6o8CxOpu8-OrBsQFonby_8ZMn5N-G7npKOjP4nW_K-CURIMYlE28aWzF0B0Padxt2jRWxpkWLBsyIoB7baO01m_fSCPEsH3JPe9XNOMkFp1HHmdFrpJXTr9cOP0hUtuBjPcnrkCbo/s1600/valentines2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Enter this easy heart garland. (If you know me well, you know that I <i>loooooove</i>
garlands - I make one for every holiday!) I punched out some hearts and sewed them
in a row. It's the easiest craft you could ever do and even easier to
hang up! I used a little piece of masking tape to hang up the ends and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Reusable-Adhesive-Putty-1-Ounce/dp/B0017T0S5K">tacky putty</a> to hang up hearts in the middle to create the loops that hang down. <br />
<br />
I also displayed on the mantle <a href="http://apeachykeenblog.blogspot.com/2015/01/free-valentines-day-printables.html">this printable</a>, a decorative jar filled with Hershey's Kisses, a red candle, some <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/bubbled-glass-candle-holder/s222593">candle holders</a>, and a photo of my husband and I in a red frame. Easy to put up, easy to take down!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">-----------------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/2015/01/show-and-share-no246.html#more">Coastal Charm</a>, <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2015/01/253rd-inspire-me-tuesday.html#more">A Stroll Thru Life</a>, <a href="http://yesterfood.blogspot.com/">Yesterfood</a>, <a href="http://www.amynewnostalgia.com/">New Nostalgia</a>, <a href="http://www.thecookiepuzzle.com/">The Cookie Puzzle</a>, <a href="http://asimplepantry.com/2015/01/create-share-diy-recipe-party-40.html">A Simple Pantry</a>, <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2015/01/wow-us-wednesdays-206.html#more">Savvy Southern Style</a>, <a href="http://www.craftyallieblog.com/">Crafty Allie</a>, <a href="http://bajantexan.blogspot.com/">Bajan Texan</a>, <a href="http://ohmyheartsiegirl.com/">Oh My Heartsie Girl</a> </span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-67752091746714869012015-01-23T07:00:00.000-08:002015-01-28T06:59:16.568-08:00Sunshine Gift Idea<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Fk3BoecpFYPUFrDTvYUaRCV9MvIejbRdkzbbpkZKU8gMWOH50LpHUXAV6H5oSau4xbfeziaZDgf_qG68EL97KiKeHzJuuZgbyYExonor3v_CrGyYwMtC3Mclrrrn6P-ssxuIQvi7dvA/s1600/sunshine+gift+idea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Peachy Keen: "Sunshine" Gift Idea" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Fk3BoecpFYPUFrDTvYUaRCV9MvIejbRdkzbbpkZKU8gMWOH50LpHUXAV6H5oSau4xbfeziaZDgf_qG68EL97KiKeHzJuuZgbyYExonor3v_CrGyYwMtC3Mclrrrn6P-ssxuIQvi7dvA/s1600/sunshine+gift+idea.jpg" height="426" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm a big fan of sending little pick-me-up packages to people. In fact, that was probably one of my favorite things about keeping in contact with friends who were serving missions--I loved coming up with different themes, color combinations, etc. (I know, so ridiculous! ;) The chance to collect fun, little things while walking around a store and knowing that it'll make someone's day a little bit better? Yes, please! I love it so much, that I decided to send my little sister a "sunshine" package to open as she jumps into a new semester at college.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpOwVaslqfxi5vHrpRu82fxDXQ0WhSp3efCdA7TV2IMwHOGvTB19uM2OiCm2SwezEcXtyhNo9ppqPr63i20_HBugqrFm9mYXSqwGBnm__iN2UekIgWnnkBjSJOtoWKAgkhB3ChTmKhok/s1600/sunshine+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Peachy Keen: "Sunshine" Gift Idea" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpOwVaslqfxi5vHrpRu82fxDXQ0WhSp3efCdA7TV2IMwHOGvTB19uM2OiCm2SwezEcXtyhNo9ppqPr63i20_HBugqrFm9mYXSqwGBnm__iN2UekIgWnnkBjSJOtoWKAgkhB3ChTmKhok/s1600/sunshine+gift.jpg" height="460" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
What I included in the package:<br />
<ul>
<li>gold bead necklaces</li>
<li>Butterfingers</li>
<li>Burt's Bees chapstick</li>
<li>Juicy Fruit gum</li>
<li>hearts cut out of yellow felt</li>
<li>fingernail polish</li>
<li>balloons</li>
<li>a sticky note pad with a pick-me-up note/drawing on each page</li>
<li>a letter</li>
<li>a fake flower</li>
<li>Lemonheads</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your favorite things to send people when they need a pick-me-up?</b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">------------------------------------------</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/">Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.frommyfrontporchtoyours.com/2015/01/treasure-hunt-thursday-189-highlights.html">From My Front Porch to Yours</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.withablast.net/2015/01/freedom-fridays-64.html#more">With a Blast</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://romantichome.blogspot.com/">My Romantic Home</a></span><b></b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.thepinjunkie.com/">The Pin Junkie</a></span><b></b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://anallievent.com/2015/01/pretty-pintastic-party-38/">An Alli Event</a></span><b></b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.dianarambles.com/">Diana Rambles</a></span><b></b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.oursecondhandhouse.com/">Our Secondhand House</a></span><b></b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://theevolutionofmom.com/">The Evolution of Mom</a></span><b></b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/2015/01/show-and-share-no246.html">Coastal Charm</a></span><b><br /></b></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-83029751097443018992015-01-21T06:48:00.000-08:002015-01-23T09:54:14.364-08:00Valentine's Day Gift Idea + Printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdYIq4f_1flZoX4ByWTDHVKPmJujRZG25sxW-A4J-JDL5tpWu0oXv3OpwOlNHrGAqL9Tbh2tB8c1S9jTESNp29TiY1SqYMkrXcS4uB_BOdUrYIX7YapwhQzHkG8JNgnaWmsMaulz55OU/s1600/valentinesgift8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdYIq4f_1flZoX4ByWTDHVKPmJujRZG25sxW-A4J-JDL5tpWu0oXv3OpwOlNHrGAqL9Tbh2tB8c1S9jTESNp29TiY1SqYMkrXcS4uB_BOdUrYIX7YapwhQzHkG8JNgnaWmsMaulz55OU/s1600/valentinesgift8.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
While growing up, there were many times I found myself sitting around
the kitchen table with my mom trying to brainstorm clever and catchy
sayings to go with a handout or treat for various events; she'd
always come up with fabulously clever sayings within seconds. Need a saying to put on your school election posters? Ask Momma H. Need a catchy handout idea for the church class you teach? Ask Momma H. Need a saying to go with a Christmas treat? Ask Momma H. There's no doubt about it, my mom is the queen of puns and clever sayings. I'm grateful that she still helps me brainstorm clever sayings when I'm in a pickle. ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hLyeM8OTonifO-OhK5yw3ya3qbIM833mEE7LSJ1CvhrBYXwzkn0whTpbbgMdS_3ZnnA2b15feaYziwpLRErP1cMIaC-YTT2vYs-c8plPjzLAMOkEZrLqIBOBOb6yJ6v4QJEICogyaQk/s1600/valentinesgift6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hLyeM8OTonifO-OhK5yw3ya3qbIM833mEE7LSJ1CvhrBYXwzkn0whTpbbgMdS_3ZnnA2b15feaYziwpLRErP1cMIaC-YTT2vYs-c8plPjzLAMOkEZrLqIBOBOb6yJ6v4QJEICogyaQk/s1600/valentinesgift6.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Knowing that Valentine's Day is right around the corner, I channeled my inner-Momma H cleverness this weekend and started brainstorming little gift ideas for the four 5-year old boys I teach each Sunday. I picked up a pack of Kool-Aid Bursts at Walmart--6 for $1--and made a little printable to tie on each bottle. (Ignore the fact that there's a comma missing...it looks a million times better without it.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLHi4PMR4g6PsUP8hvEAvmsxHFrPnAV-6LyRmaD57yXLx4npammTOUXMBfP27vM0fpKPncPXPOHp-XcsFluWLCsIfaRIfMRfSWZTL3sUreWivh0Cg2n2pwLP0H0nWsBJ6oCljUpqn1DU/s1600/you+are+totally+KOOL+valentine!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLHi4PMR4g6PsUP8hvEAvmsxHFrPnAV-6LyRmaD57yXLx4npammTOUXMBfP27vM0fpKPncPXPOHp-XcsFluWLCsIfaRIfMRfSWZTL3sUreWivh0Cg2n2pwLP0H0nWsBJ6oCljUpqn1DU/s1600/you+are+totally+KOOL+valentine!.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Download the gift tag printable <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOgXE2d9SNANjlCU29ZTVRUTUE/view?usp=sharing">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy crafting!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">-------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.thecookiepuzzle.com/">The Cookie Puzzle</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://asimplepantry.com/2015/01/create-share-diy-recipe-party-39.html">A Simple Pantry</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2015/01/wow-us-wednesdays-205.html#more">Savvy Southern Style</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://bajantexan.blogspot.com/">The Bajan Texan</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://ohmyheartsiegirl.com/">Oh My Heartsie Girl</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/">Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.craftyallieblog.com/">Crafty Allie</a> </span></div>
</div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-53525295341217296972015-01-19T06:30:00.000-08:002015-01-20T08:16:04.824-08:00Travel Log: Chicago, Illinois<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWzdg-mixY94Ufai5iA4sivo8avKkj1X_Ylmz61ztdTm9VD3GAzy2wipaCnsjsd6E-FFKbLz4pYdsc4BpkuAERNKOts0RX4HX6mIsF7Hjv4D5HTkpDk-lxVyVdF4vHa6rQQys7-0LGGM/s1600/a+travel+guide+to+Chicago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Peachy Keen: A Travel Guide to Chicago! Restaurants, things to see, museums, and more! " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWzdg-mixY94Ufai5iA4sivo8avKkj1X_Ylmz61ztdTm9VD3GAzy2wipaCnsjsd6E-FFKbLz4pYdsc4BpkuAERNKOts0RX4HX6mIsF7Hjv4D5HTkpDk-lxVyVdF4vHa6rQQys7-0LGGM/s1600/a+travel+guide+to+Chicago.jpg" height="740" title="" width="614" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Chicago is hands down one of my favorite places to run around and explore. Lucky for me, I have a cousin who lives in the city and graciously lets me crash her at place often. . .which I did just a few weekends ago! Each day, we end up walking several miles while out exploring new museums and restaurants, and it's just the greatest thing ever. I'm now convinced that my husband and I should move to Chicago after he finishes grad school here in St. Louis. Without further ado, here's my list of places and sights to see that everyone should check out when they visit Chicago!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtebTtqM1BXSEH9622s0-uEJ3rpKhzSLNhZeNAyg2kg4d17i-j5VZVHy1aRtUOsgzTqyQkSMl-4qINh4P9RcRCoZOjBXLJClSUqbBRPXq5sLqbLAW69AA99Kal33VCIxoqXrRZMQ6q0cI/s1600/sightseeing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtebTtqM1BXSEH9622s0-uEJ3rpKhzSLNhZeNAyg2kg4d17i-j5VZVHy1aRtUOsgzTqyQkSMl-4qINh4P9RcRCoZOjBXLJClSUqbBRPXq5sLqbLAW69AA99Kal33VCIxoqXrRZMQ6q0cI/s1600/sightseeing.jpg" height="103" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17B7MvoZAN1hgLwMxHQwy9zD4Viplak5flV_SV-8_-9aB3UkPBOzHiqzZLoej3taloUC26nE2S9AaW3JMmpwmveJEuUmtgEq-5wPSZtVlLwtmbRUvw585sfgykpbYGfOYXYItmyu-i5E/s1600/DSC_1194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Peachy Keen: A Travel Guide to Chicago! Restaurants, things to see, museums, and more! " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17B7MvoZAN1hgLwMxHQwy9zD4Viplak5flV_SV-8_-9aB3UkPBOzHiqzZLoej3taloUC26nE2S9AaW3JMmpwmveJEuUmtgEq-5wPSZtVlLwtmbRUvw585sfgykpbYGfOYXYItmyu-i5E/s1600/DSC_1194.JPG" height="426" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Lake & River Architecture Tour</b>: This is my absolute<i> favorite</i> thing I've ever done in Chicago. The tour was quite informative, but definitely kept us interested at the same time. Going out on the lake and cruising up and down the shore was the best part; it gave us a different perspective of the city and the water was just so beautiful. Although it's a little pricy ($30/person), it is the best thing you can do to really see, and get to know, the city! I'd recommend going through <a href="http://www.wendellaboats.com/experience/lakeandrivertour.aspx">this company</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Chicago Cultural Center</b>: Located downtown, this building houses a variety of art exhibits. Open daily to the public (free admission), you won't want to miss out on this! It doesn't take long to walk through the whole building, but I can guarantee you'll be just as amazed by the architecture as you will by the exhibits themselves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0fK_67ryhZ23jR6Aalvpk2wddKjuV339Ub27yJlY2jXhYdPzvWhz6NZtraU5Cfbq8dY2HExT8kVSDPrLtgL0uG9ngFbOp2r0IZTJ4SVs0GMmOfCYW_zx7pFeeqmsmgKpGEhrljeboBA/s1600/DSC_1122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Peachy Keen: A Travel Guide to Chicago! Restaurants, things to see, museums, and more! " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0fK_67ryhZ23jR6Aalvpk2wddKjuV339Ub27yJlY2jXhYdPzvWhz6NZtraU5Cfbq8dY2HExT8kVSDPrLtgL0uG9ngFbOp2r0IZTJ4SVs0GMmOfCYW_zx7pFeeqmsmgKpGEhrljeboBA/s1600/DSC_1122.JPG" height="426" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Millennium Park / Grant Park</b>: This is a <u>must</u>. Famous for the cutting-edge architecture and art displayed in the parks, these (free) parks are one of the most popular stopping places in the city. Here, you'll find the famous Cloud Gate sculpture - also know as "The Bean." (Pictured at the top of this post.) Try standing directly under the bean and checking out the funky view from that angle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Navy Pier</b>: This (free) iconic scene has been featured in a million movies--including <i>The Dark Knight</i> and <i>Divergent</i>--and is something you won't want to miss out on. The fun and colorful atmosphere makes you feel like you're at an amusement park in the middle of the city - or maybe it's the fact that there's a 150 foot ferris wheel on the pier ($7/person) and other carnival rides. :) Don't forget to stop and pick up some funnel cake or Dippin' Dots as you walk along the riverfront!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>The Magnificent Mile</b>: This is probably one of the coolest streets (Michigan Avenue) in the United States. Located downtown and by the river, several high-end and department clothing and jewelry stores line the street. You'll pass famous buildings like the Trump Tower, the Tribune Tower, NBC Tower, and multiple others.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Go7ye1XriGPe6PFBxi1WBnszeOAWXDz6Eu4LinDmAXrR95_RcBZIwjv_5kpFxBQr-RFyknl7vG3yAcVy6qmanqH2nNOEdRGqNxd4eTg0OD4SHRF6zdl8x5L76hKqwvrgXEzvx2ct0nQ/s1600/chicago5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Peachy Keen: A Travel Guide to Chicago! Restaurants, things to see, museums, and more! " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Go7ye1XriGPe6PFBxi1WBnszeOAWXDz6Eu4LinDmAXrR95_RcBZIwjv_5kpFxBQr-RFyknl7vG3yAcVy6qmanqH2nNOEdRGqNxd4eTg0OD4SHRF6zdl8x5L76hKqwvrgXEzvx2ct0nQ/s1600/chicago5a.jpg" height="256" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Tribune Tower</b>: Located on Michigan Avenue, you won't be able to miss this massive, neo-Gothic building. The architecture is breathtaking in and of itself, but the fact that pieces of famous buildings/sites around the world are part of this building makes it even more impressive. It's great fun to hunt and find a piece of rock from your favorite famous historical site. (Free to visit.) Take a peek at the NBC Tower right behind the Tribune Tower!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>John Hancock Center</b>: Okay, listen up people because I'm about to share a secret with you. Lots of people like to pay $20/person to go up to the top of the Willis (used to be Sears) Tower, which is fine, but why pay that much when you can pay $8-$15 to see the exact same sights from the John Hancock Building? Here's how it works: you take the elevator to the 95th floor, each person has to order at least ONE item from the menu (desserts are something like $8-$15 dollars), you get seated right next to the window so your view is fantastic, and you take some photos from the top. It's everything the Willis Tower will offer you <i>plus </i>dessert!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Art Institute of Chicago</b>: I'll admit, I haven't been here before, but my cousin who was a Humanities major is in love with this art museum. Plus, I take it as a good sign that there are always a million people standing in line waiting to get in whenever I pass by. It's a little pricy ($23/person if you aren't a Chicago or Illinois resident), but I hear the exhibits are worth it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5v0C5gtncija2uuzoEbwgkOKefNKmNWMQomWTGasbeLoWDzn2o8PB4HmpMfcN-C4_dx5N0w2kpO0qxwKvGeFO9PF3H3UPfNVNClfBWz24D7DuKIREcOe_GjNeh8uvnIa6jG-rU6OXkO8/s1600/restaurants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5v0C5gtncija2uuzoEbwgkOKefNKmNWMQomWTGasbeLoWDzn2o8PB4HmpMfcN-C4_dx5N0w2kpO0qxwKvGeFO9PF3H3UPfNVNClfBWz24D7DuKIREcOe_GjNeh8uvnIa6jG-rU6OXkO8/s1600/restaurants.jpg" height="103" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Tutto Italiano</b>: Picture eating delicious Italian food inside an old train car with lights strung across the ceiling, candles and old books beautifully arranged, and fresh flowers on your table. It's what dreams are made of. I'd put this location at the top of my list for romantic, intimate dinners, or a perfect place to have a dinner with a group of girlfriends. The bruschetta and ravioli are my favorite and I couldn't recommend them enough! (Moderately priced at $12-$18 a plate.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Grand Lux Cafe</b>: One word: desserts! This place is a slightly classier version of The Cheesecake Factory, but if I were you, I'd skip the food and go straight to the desserts. Chocolate cake with fresh fruit, Gooey Butter Cake, creamy cheesecake, and everything else you could ever think of. Grab your girlfriends or family and order a few desserts to split! ($8-$10 or so.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Spanglish</b>: The name of this restaurant basically describes the food perfectly; it's Mexican food that has definitely been Americanized. Their breakfast burritos are the best and so ginormous that they could easily fill up two people, and their Horchata can't be beat! ($4-$10.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Giordano's Pizza</b>: A classic. When I think of Chicago, I think of pizza. More specifically, Giordano's. When we stopped in to grab some dinner, it was almost 10 pm and we'd been walking around all day, so I don't know if it was marvelous because I was starving or because it really is that great. (I'm thinking it really is just that good...) Regardless, you have to try Chicago style pizza while in the city and this place is a great bang for your buck. ($10-$20 depending on the size of your pizza.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>La Cocina Mexican</b>: If you haven't noticed by now, apparently I only eat Italian and Mexican food, haha. I just love it so and this place was no different. It was extremely cheap, conveniently located right off of Michigan Avenue, and the service was surprisingly fast for how busy it was. The burritos, tacos, and enchiladas were all fantastic. ($4-$9.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Have you been to Chicago before? What are your favorite places to see and favorite restaurants? I need some suggestions for my next trip back! :)</b></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-33919587411944840632015-01-16T06:30:00.000-08:002015-01-20T08:40:23.444-08:00Gluten Free "Oreo" Dessert<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINvuMw_T5Lr-muztSRHpHCzCzuQPOVHZKNxPwYJkYf2w6AJ9w7zYnbVFhVvc5NBfsfdHxCjik-FRMxfB_0SA0YvSudELMHEuk26pPUWYf7wvg0J757paglWggGAaIECVdcomKl8K0Zoif/s1600/DSC_0007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINvuMw_T5Lr-muztSRHpHCzCzuQPOVHZKNxPwYJkYf2w6AJ9w7zYnbVFhVvc5NBfsfdHxCjik-FRMxfB_0SA0YvSudELMHEuk26pPUWYf7wvg0J757paglWggGAaIECVdcomKl8K0Zoif/s1600/DSC_0007.png" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Lately, eating dessert has been my favorite way to pass the time. This treat tops my favorite list for combining chocolate, ice cream, and cool whip into one delicious confection. Better yet, by adding a few juicy strawberries to the top, it becomes fractionally more guilt-free.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<br />
1 German chocolate bar<br />
1/2 stick margarine<br />
3/4 c. sugar<br />
5 oz OR 2/3 c. evaporated milk<br />
1 tsp. vanilla<br />
24 crushed Oreo cookies<br />
1/2 stick margarine, melted<br />
1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream, softened<br />
1 container cool whip<br />
<br />
*We use <a href="http://www.glutino.com/products/cookies-and-wafers/cookies/chocolate-vanilla-creme-cookies/">Glutino brand chocolate sandwich cookie</a> to make it gluten free<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<br />
1. Combine German chocolate bar, 1/2 stick margarine, sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla in a pan on the stove. Bring to a boil and then let it cook at a medium low heat for about 90 seconds. Allow this to cool completely.<br />
<br />
2. Spread the crushed cookies in the bottom of a 9x13. Pour melted butter over the cookies.<br />
<br />
3. Slice ice cream into 1 inch slabs and place on top of cookies until they are completely covered. Put it in the freezer.<br />
<br />
4. When chocolate sauce is cool, pour it over the ice cream. Put it back in the freezer.<br />
<br />
5. Slather in cool whip when ready to serve. The recipe calls for maraschino cherries, but I always opt for strawberries.<br />
<br />
Happy, happy Friday. May your weekend be long & spectacular.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">---------------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://judyscardmakingandpapercrafts.blogspot.com/">Judy's Handmade Creations</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.sewcando.com/">Sew Can Do</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.amynewnostalgia.com/">New Nostalgia</a> </span></div>
Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-35475698078270858212015-01-14T06:44:00.002-08:002015-01-14T06:44:24.802-08:00Christmas Escapades: A Tale of Family, Food, and FunOur 2 1/2 week long trip to Denver and Utah started like all of our other vacations... I anxiously awaited the day that I could begin packing my suitcase, I made numerous lists of things I'd need to bring, and I couldn't stop telling my husband how excited I was! You see, going home is a treat for us since we aren't fans of the 13 hour drive to Denver and an additional 8 hours to Salt Lake City, and plane tickets can quickly add up. Before we knew it, the time to fly out had come and visions of Cafe Rio pork salads were dancing in my head as we made our way to Denver.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHimn80qHqKpsL9KLn2Td6NTjyoDHfjkFuR_OQ63unG9HFdwrGCvLj80o4-4xJWTy3YDNSpm4EaZeEA5novWGzRiRymMUehKyIFPr6Uvg3WpZ6FHG_kBZrfmeXWYpy4EHmTj61AJdq5Q/s1600/IMG_4711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHimn80qHqKpsL9KLn2Td6NTjyoDHfjkFuR_OQ63unG9HFdwrGCvLj80o4-4xJWTy3YDNSpm4EaZeEA5novWGzRiRymMUehKyIFPr6Uvg3WpZ6FHG_kBZrfmeXWYpy4EHmTj61AJdq5Q/s1600/IMG_4711.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">^^my husband does, in fact, have ears...he's just wearing earmuffs ;)^^</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
We spent the first week of our trip in Denver with my husband's family, and kicked it off with a trip to the Denver Botanical Gardens to see the Christmas lights. This, my friends, is when it finally began to feel a bit like Christmas! The rest of the week leading up to Christmas was full of last minute shopping, eating Cafe Rio pork salads, wrapping gifts, making cookies, and playing <i>waaaay</i> too many games of Monopoly. It was wonderful being able to forget about responsibilities and just spend time with family since it was our first time being all together in over a year!<br />
<br />
I'd have to say my favorite moment of our time in Denver was when Ben's extended family gathered on Christmas Eve for dinner and a program (read: Christmas videos, lots of caroling, and a gift exchange). Everyone had finished eating and my husband's uncle turned on <a href="https://www.lds.org/media-library/video/2011-10-067-the-nativity?category=bible-videos-the-life-of-jesus-christ&lang=eng">this</a> video - cue all of the tears. It was a lovely reminder of the reason for the season. We ended up going to a Christmas Eve service later that night at a local church to hear my husband's aunt and uncle sing in the choir; although the music was absolutely beautiful, I quickly learned that staying up late isn't my thing anymore. ;)<br />
<br />
Our Christmas was full of good food, exchanging gifts, playing board games, eating a great big dinner, and going to see <i>Unbroken.</i> It was a wonderful day, but what made it special was being together with family.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMc67THyAr84ZgD2sL3kZT-g8CJiO1t5TdoI0vhTh-NNdLiky0mI7H0gIQM6RyfUoyo_xqmJi-6ZkKrrPaLhbRMGZU5pOnVFA9LbSYHoBLojHXps5qLd2VT94mAZOIW-Duc7uZXZWNo4/s1600/DSC_0029a.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></div>
The day after Christmas we flew out to Utah! We filled the next couple of days with Comedy Sportz, exchanging gifts, seeing family and friends, multiple eye appointments for my husband (he got PRK while we were there - it's kind of like LASIK), a little bit of shopping, Cafe Rio pork salads, family pictures, board games, running errands, and funny YouTube videos. We tried new restaurants, watched movies, slept in most days, and did face masks. I can't even begin to tell you how nice it was to just sit by the fire and relax! My favorite moment in Utah was going to Temple Square one night with my family. It was so, so cold but the lights were as gorgeous as ever.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEYqIBWrPe-CAcQbC2A7PRqo2rr62O1gY-_n6xaA4hgKVk-bu7qpUd_kH0DddnTLrNipl2JXGV-9Gut_vnR4tvJu91XPSZpRPZ-DSPgnn1uzoai2R_l2XDVPMl37isN16m2cfINCHB5w/s1600/new+year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEYqIBWrPe-CAcQbC2A7PRqo2rr62O1gY-_n6xaA4hgKVk-bu7qpUd_kH0DddnTLrNipl2JXGV-9Gut_vnR4tvJu91XPSZpRPZ-DSPgnn1uzoai2R_l2XDVPMl37isN16m2cfINCHB5w/s1600/new+year.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Our New Years Eve was low-key since my husband wasn't feeling great and his vision was a bit blurry the day after surgery. We ended up staying home with my sister and watching Netflix movies. At one point I made a run for shake stuff and we had a bit too much fun playing with the Oreos - Happy 2015!<br />
<br />
Sadly, before we knew it, it was time to do some laundry and pack our suitcases to head home. The worst part of any vacation, for sure! (Minus the unpacking once you get home, ha.) There's truly nothing greater than getting to spend time with family and friends that you don't get to see very often, and it's never fun to say goodbye. However, we've got some plans to see family in the works throughout this year and I'm over the moon that I get to sleep in my own bed once again. ;)<br />
<br />
I hope your holidays were lovely and filled with a Cafe Rio pork salad or two!Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-5580006111859034782015-01-13T07:00:00.000-08:002015-01-13T09:20:12.814-08:005 Weight Loss Tips for 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkeZOQd80nQ3yMk8Mrdl7cQFTobpmV-umiaMiY8OLriRixkHOfsxTE2t-T8EtO2tuyZrUhxJAyqJd-JhU59FMYfA6_6qXWQWANX1BquwwzQTQX9OEIDToaWiJTf_Q8lQt0Lzz_iGFkfLl/s1600/Weight+Loss.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkeZOQd80nQ3yMk8Mrdl7cQFTobpmV-umiaMiY8OLriRixkHOfsxTE2t-T8EtO2tuyZrUhxJAyqJd-JhU59FMYfA6_6qXWQWANX1BquwwzQTQX9OEIDToaWiJTf_Q8lQt0Lzz_iGFkfLl/s1600/Weight+Loss.png" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am not any kind of weight loss or health expert. Exhibit A: I’m typing this next to a half-eaten bag of Cheetos and a few fun-sized KitKats. But stick with me. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c7835c65-e12c-2fe0-fc51-68ffeb510143" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once upon a time during a magical time called Summer After Freshman Year, I quit my dance program, ate a diet entirely of bread and chocolate, and gained about 30 pounds. I let the weight stick around for a couple of years, until I finally couldn’t stand the way my jeans were always too tight. So I found a few things that worked for me to healthily drop the weight.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Let me know what's worked for you, and I wish us all the best of luck in our fitness New Years goals.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<ol style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Drink more water. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Our bodies need water. Once, the very handsome Biggest Loser coach Bob Harper told me (through the TV) to drink a glass of water before breakfast every morning. Yes, Bob. Anything you say. I also sip it throughout the day, aiming to get through 3 bottles during work and another one at home. A cute and functional water bottle helps. Try</span><a href="http://www.target.com/p/bobble-water-bottle-magenta-34-oz/-/A-14666189#prodSlot=medium_2_4&term=water+bottle" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> this</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, </span><a href="http://zinganything.com/product/citruszinger" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">this</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> or </span><a href="http://store.starbucks.com/cold-cup-tumbler-gold-lattice/011041052,default,pd.html?start=1&navid=starbucks-dot-collection%3Fcm_mmc%3DSocial-_-Pinterest-_-na-_-HolidayFY15&crlt.pid=camp.N0ZEwjvTKQgU" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">THIS</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. (WARNING: you will make more potty trips than you thought your bladder capable of)</span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<ol start="2" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Use smaller plates. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If awards existed for Worst Ever At Portion Control, I’d be a gold medalist. When something tastes yummy, I want to eat all of it, no matter how much my aching stomach protests. To help curb this bad habit, I use smaller dinner plates. If I’m still hungry after round one, I go back for more. </span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<ol start="3" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Don’t eat the last bite. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Refer to #2 and my ability to defy recommended portions. A rule I came up with for myself during the thick of my weight loss attempts: leave one bit on the plate. The point: when you’re full, leave what’s left on the plate. You DON’T have to eat it.</span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<ol start="4" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Choose several small meals over bigger courses. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This advice has been rampant lately, and I agree with it wholeheartedly. Instead of stuffing yourself during the three traditional meals, eat as much as you need whenever you want. For me, if that meant I ate 20 bitty meals in 8 hours, then that was aaaa-okay. </span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
</span><br />
<ol start="5" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Move your body.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I don’t exercise regularly. I try. Really, I try. Zumba makes it easier--I love the fun, upbeat class atmosphere, and I recommend finding something YOU love. But even with a gym membership, I don’t find myself spending hours doing aerobics or weights every week. Instead, I try to move a little whenever I can. This means, most days, I drive to the gym, lift for 10 minutes, and leave. I walk or run around the neighborhood when I can. My motto: five minutes of exercise is better than none. </span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-57570518404221824132015-01-12T06:34:00.001-08:002015-01-12T08:15:11.057-08:00M&M Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWk-Xs1LByF9C86Mkfi2lVT1AhHvEbdpExF_cwmzdeW7voVkukMJ39f3nXid9VPUgcYcECWlMVwf7OOydRFxWoQHonGUVG7LYUbAMc5MZAaAbN5mrcJYKdBTd_7nFiaERXJEjUdB65MU/s1600/M&M+Cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWk-Xs1LByF9C86Mkfi2lVT1AhHvEbdpExF_cwmzdeW7voVkukMJ39f3nXid9VPUgcYcECWlMVwf7OOydRFxWoQHonGUVG7LYUbAMc5MZAaAbN5mrcJYKdBTd_7nFiaERXJEjUdB65MU/s1600/M&M+Cookies.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Around the time that I left home for college, I ended up with a cookbook from my grandma. It was one of those homemade cookbooks that all of the ladies from church contribute to and share their favorite recipes. As a 17-year old, I didn't think much about it since I was planning on moving into the dorms on campus my first year and wouldn't be cooking my own meals. The cookbook was packed up and never used. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Fast forward 4 1/2 years and you'd find me cleaning out my kitchen and coming across this cookbook from my grandma. I pulled it off the shelf and immediately placed it in my Goodwill pile since I had never used it, let alone opened it up. A few minutes later, I walked by the pile again and saw the discarded cookbook. I picked it up and started thumbing through the recipes, noticing that quite a few looked fabulous and I serendipitously turned to this M&M cookies recipe. <i>Well, it's settled then, </i>I thought. I had to keep the cookbook. For the past few weeks, I've had fun pulling out the book and making some of the recipes, and I love that it reminds me of my grandma each time! Without further ado, here's a truly fabulous M&M cookie recipe from a Mrs. Thelma Johnson.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWx37e1yDyBjvS1N04D1FQmkfooaTgTkrCGtl5bEnWMUG1JnG4rAv7iNqJsNmUOBaCIYtR4TicY_CJwSuZgFXYYcq-y92WSUgQXq5DKRBJd3bF4bel6iyIajhhJ0_eLv9FheYmUXo_9_E/s1600/m&m+cookies+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWx37e1yDyBjvS1N04D1FQmkfooaTgTkrCGtl5bEnWMUG1JnG4rAv7iNqJsNmUOBaCIYtR4TicY_CJwSuZgFXYYcq-y92WSUgQXq5DKRBJd3bF4bel6iyIajhhJ0_eLv9FheYmUXo_9_E/s1600/m&m+cookies+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Ingredients:<br />
<i>1 c. packed brown sugar</i><br />
<i>1/2 c. white sugar</i><br />
<i>1 c. butter</i><br />
<i>2 eggs</i><br />
<i>1 1/2 t. vanilla</i><br />
<i>2 1/2 c. flour</i><br />
<i>1 t. baking soda</i><br />
<i>1 t. salt</i><br />
<i>1 1/2 c. M&M's</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Directions:<br />
1. In a large bowl, mix sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla thoroughly. Add flour, salt, and baking soda to creamed mixture. Blend well. Add 3/4 cup of M&M candies.<br />
2. Drop dough by teaspoonful onto cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees F for 9 to 11 minutes.<br />
3. Once you've removed the cookie sheet from the oven, slightly push a few M&M candies on top of each cookie.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">---------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.thepinjunkie.com/2015/01/pin-junkie-pin-party-99.html#more">The Pin Junkie</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://anallievent.com/">An Alli Event</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.dianarambles.com/">Diana Rambles</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.niftythriftythings.com/nifty-thrifty-sunday-186/">Nifty Thrifty Things</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/2015/01/think-pink-sundays-no-199/">Flamingo Toes</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://daisycottagedesigns.net/">Daisy Cottage Designs</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.sewcando.com/">Sew Can Do</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://judyscardmakingandpapercrafts.blogspot.com/">Judy's Handmade Creations</a> </span></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-65841919874059177862015-01-08T08:13:00.001-08:002015-01-08T08:31:55.105-08:00Makeover: Pretty & Pink for Valentine's <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gg3K6iORgpsxfmRaWSu5tgabM9tnClrqKuA9SBSfEeIyn8kjl1gBtcRxSvIyoyCtihbfbO6GBuFH2AEEFkobqg6erQK1LTBuQkEAmFL061vgGXofr6tQpWbcVYLd2WD51HcVwcqfiir4/s1600/KatieMakeover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gg3K6iORgpsxfmRaWSu5tgabM9tnClrqKuA9SBSfEeIyn8kjl1gBtcRxSvIyoyCtihbfbO6GBuFH2AEEFkobqg6erQK1LTBuQkEAmFL061vgGXofr6tQpWbcVYLd2WD51HcVwcqfiir4/s1600/KatieMakeover.png" height="468" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My Christmas tree is taunting me from the corner, goading me to wrap all of the shiny ornaments back beneath layers of newspaper and bubble wrap. The holidays were particularly awesome this year, which I'll tell you all about some day when I need to remember our 2014 festivities during the dry lull of January-February.<br />
<br />
BUT, I was lucky enough to have a visit from Lex's hilarious little sister, Katie. Normally, she's out in Hawaii, enjoying the never-below-70 weather and golden sand and hula skirts (this is how I imagine Hawaii, having never been to that paradise). She kindly agreed to allow Lex & I to play makeup, and this look was the result--I'm a big fan of how soft & pretty it all turned out.<br />
<br />
Try out some of these products if you're venturing out on Valentine's Day. Namely the lipstick & mascara, because they're kind of amazing.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Foundation: <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4130103">Tarte Amazonian Clay</a> / Bronzer: <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4141595">NYX Matte Bronzer</a> / Blush:<a href="http://www.thebalm.com/instain.html"> theBalm Swiss Dot</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Eyeshadow: <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4040025">Naked 2 Palette</a> / Eyeliner: <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod930182">L'Oreal Infallible</a> / Mascara: <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod2430023">Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lips: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Maybelline-ColorSensational-Lipcolor-Mad-Magenta/dp/B00B2BS562">Maybelline Mad for Magenta</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">---------------------------------------------------------------</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/">Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.frommyfrontporchtoyours.com/2015/01/treasure-hunt-thursday-187.html">From My Front Porch to Yours</a> </span></div>
Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-10508594067003541232015-01-07T05:43:00.000-08:002015-01-29T11:22:02.712-08:00FREE Valentine's Day Printables<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQXy0_csAbgUVhjCr9LV-Hqz1ghdDTczuZmdrW4i5WM0z5rV0HQev3OEEoBMWp44RDYzIVdA8JbcLSJDZUEETCqUm5twRQaO2b8kJCbGfrhSmWQdRCNnp0xax1hWSq95lXemGF2kYIy8/s1600/valentinesdayprintable2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQXy0_csAbgUVhjCr9LV-Hqz1ghdDTczuZmdrW4i5WM0z5rV0HQev3OEEoBMWp44RDYzIVdA8JbcLSJDZUEETCqUm5twRQaO2b8kJCbGfrhSmWQdRCNnp0xax1hWSq95lXemGF2kYIy8/s1600/valentinesdayprintable2.jpg" height="640" title="Peachy Keen blog: free Valentine's Day printable. 8x10." width="520" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Download 8x10 printable <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOgXE2d9SNAVHpSYXZwNzhZNUU/view?usp=sharing">here</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/AVvXsEiJyuys2Aj4cIF3jZCorHDTJn3QCA0Hqwg6TMCeDLBP4Fh5zeVZ-z20zf55FMDKUfY3yJWJEjdq8rJfaUE5qpazFH8tcWiQRu5StK5ZjEWOB3crXXnHp1TVbDkVUcVSHWnc3-xkk_HyT4c/s1600/valentinesdayprintable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyuys2Aj4cIF3jZCorHDTJn3QCA0Hqwg6TMCeDLBP4Fh5zeVZ-z20zf55FMDKUfY3yJWJEjdq8rJfaUE5qpazFH8tcWiQRu5StK5ZjEWOB3crXXnHp1TVbDkVUcVSHWnc3-xkk_HyT4c/s1600/valentinesdayprintable.jpg" height="640" title="Peachy Keen blog: free Valentine's Day printable. 8x10." width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Download 8x10 printable <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOgXE2d9SNARnZCLU4xa0RyYm8/view?usp=sharing">here</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/AVvXsEio-8xH29vtNO_DVrCny3v3SZKhFLgg5sXjI6Nq7ES2iaVlxzOd77uGIY7RPBCuE1ORdS0ahiFYs6B7cnCPq80M4F-FW4EGu0BJ3rwOSn123q5QUutR69Eb2f6gyrDaO4JDLh6C8fKmEVU/s1600/valentinesdayprintable3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-8xH29vtNO_DVrCny3v3SZKhFLgg5sXjI6Nq7ES2iaVlxzOd77uGIY7RPBCuE1ORdS0ahiFYs6B7cnCPq80M4F-FW4EGu0BJ3rwOSn123q5QUutR69Eb2f6gyrDaO4JDLh6C8fKmEVU/s1600/valentinesdayprintable3.jpg" height="640" title="Peachy Keen blog: free Valentine's Day printable. 8x10." width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Download 8x10 printable <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOgXE2d9SNASXVFMXNfN0dJcFE/view?usp=sharing">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Hello, hello! Andy and I are back after a short (amazing, great, fun, absolutely perfect!) holiday break and are excited to share some Valentine's Day posts with you all over the next few weeks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
After flying back home <i>early</i> yesterday morning, I spent my evening after work unpacking and taking down Christmas decorations.* Normally, it makes me incredibly sad to take everything down, but I just can't wait to decorate my mantle with hearts, glitter, and all shades of pink and red this year! I also can't wait to find the perfect spot in my apartment for that top printable. :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*I can't bear to part with my tree, so it's staying up for now. Who knows, it might become a Valentine's Day tree before too long!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">--------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.niftythriftythings.com/nifty-thrifty-sunday-185/">Nifty Thrifty Things</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2015/01/250th-inspire-me-tuesday.html#more">A Stroll Thru Life</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://yesterfood.blogspot.com/">Yesterfood</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://oombawkadesigncrochet.com/2015/01/link-and-share-wednesday-party-74.html">Oombawka Design</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.amynewnostalgia.com/">New Nostalgia</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.thecookiepuzzle.com/">The Cookie Puzzle</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="ttp://asimplepantry.com/2015/01/create-share-diy-recipe-party-37.html">A Simple Pantry</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2015/01/wow-us-wednesdays-203.html#more">Savvy Southern Style</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://bajantexan.blogspot.com/">Bajan Texan</a> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://ohmyheartsiegirl.com/">Oh My Heartsie Girl</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/">Have A Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson</a> </span></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-7254174293557006112015-01-02T08:56:00.003-08:002015-01-02T08:56:44.238-08:00December Book - Unbroken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSttIonNjxwT6KxRTaoxalznw3VeEkmn4ycLh-n5aqhVu5ZiNJSo2tvysxOlWA0ypWKt7YqGPj-zmzYQuzMxCID1VpcbbqxLYQ-UW7RJ832kXUHNzTwIo2EDHVW-kxRu54JK5tFRdAN-A/s1600/hillenbrand_unbroken-396x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSttIonNjxwT6KxRTaoxalznw3VeEkmn4ycLh-n5aqhVu5ZiNJSo2tvysxOlWA0ypWKt7YqGPj-zmzYQuzMxCID1VpcbbqxLYQ-UW7RJ832kXUHNzTwIo2EDHVW-kxRu54JK5tFRdAN-A/s1600/hillenbrand_unbroken-396x600.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a> </div>
<b>Lex's Review:</b><br />
I'm absolutely enthralled by World War II novels, and rarely, if ever, dislike them. Thus, I'm probably a bit biased when I say that I loved this non-fiction story of an Olympic champion turned WWII airman. Throughout the entire book, I was in awe of his strength—the
strength and resilience of the human spirit. From surviving in open waters for 47 days without food and
water to enduring the Japanese POW camps and a particular officer that had it out for
him, Zamperini found it within himself to not only keep going but show the enemy that they would never break him. What amazed me most about his
story was his quest for peace and forgiveness years after the war had ended, and he even ended up returning to Japan to run the torch in the 1998 Olympics.<br />
<br />
"On the morning of January 22, 1998, snow sifted gently over the village once known as Naoetsu. Louis Zamperini, four days short of his eighty-first birthday, stood in a swirl of white beside a road flanked in bright drifts. His body was worn and weathered, his skin scratched with lines mapping the miles of his life. His old riot of black hair was now a translucent scrim of white, but his blue eyes still threw sparks. On the ring finger of his right hand, a scar was still visible, the last mark that <i>Green Hornet</i> had left in the world.<br />
<br />
At last, it was time. Louie extended his hand, and in it was placed the Olympic torch. His legs could no longer reach and push as they once had, but they were still sure beneath him. He raised the torch, bowed, and began running."<br />
<br />
I'd give <i>Unbroken</i> 5 out of 5 stars.<br />
<br />
<b>Andy's Review:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
As a lover <i>Seabiscuit </i>(and all tear-jerking horse novels), I was excited to read Hillenbrand's newest work. <i>Unbroken </i>captured the essence of human hope and vivacity--the ability of the average person to achieve the inconceivable and break the known boundaries of physical, mental, and emotional strength. Louis Zamperni is the kind of man that should be an international role model of courage, perseverance, and most importantly, forgiveness.<br />
<br />
What I appreciate most, aside from impeccable writing, is Hillenbrand's dedication to accuracy.The tone of the novel walks the line between descriptive story-telling and biographical documentary. This attention to detail makes the story even more incredible when you realize that everything scripted truly describes real events. This is one I'll keep around for a reread. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
January's book is <i>Seriously...I'm Kidding</i> by Ellen DeGeneres.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiQp9RLpbZP0e77dJb5L0pMrrQ09zFpK3vIOxjvevlvhlmSQ6_rciMn-e2sOxLSMWYMm-9ggm97UOh4887RYnCDFMs8syQC_dDAr58rqDvhlRsw4X-j1U0vg_BbLEJ_EAY0yFKFJIIbK7i/s1600/seriously.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiQp9RLpbZP0e77dJb5L0pMrrQ09zFpK3vIOxjvevlvhlmSQ6_rciMn-e2sOxLSMWYMm-9ggm97UOh4887RYnCDFMs8syQC_dDAr58rqDvhlRsw4X-j1U0vg_BbLEJ_EAY0yFKFJIIbK7i/s1600/seriously.jpeg" height="640" width="392" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-45068101021556221772014-12-25T11:00:00.000-08:002014-12-25T11:00:00.214-08:00We wish you a...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1ReMRkzTZs2XKemfyfabWO2mZdvAYEeOhnm5-EaxD5yb_A0Gm6dP3sX3pGo7zvX-Ooh2BxJPBcNCBvqT-swFJHbyJ3QOZzOH8zFyRVY3jpl_e0WyzpgvCdJHz5CU3kszr4tC6H3uEPU/s1600/blogMerryChristmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1ReMRkzTZs2XKemfyfabWO2mZdvAYEeOhnm5-EaxD5yb_A0Gm6dP3sX3pGo7zvX-Ooh2BxJPBcNCBvqT-swFJHbyJ3QOZzOH8zFyRVY3jpl_e0WyzpgvCdJHz5CU3kszr4tC6H3uEPU/s1600/blogMerryChristmas.jpg" height="202" width="640" /></a></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-30522682979062455702014-12-23T05:11:00.000-08:002014-12-23T05:11:00.267-08:00DIY Canvas Craft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggR2T_PFJFMrSx2NoKzpkHp6D9hLIf6dmzWj-BdDhb6KmkhlAKrM5OgVINAyZduCHJRN59E9tmsSQNUSyWXDv1XUQ67PeXGI11hD8pNVJg1ZQnZGvHfs6vTnwSC6rIWqjJDAtVVNryHls/s1600/canvas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggR2T_PFJFMrSx2NoKzpkHp6D9hLIf6dmzWj-BdDhb6KmkhlAKrM5OgVINAyZduCHJRN59E9tmsSQNUSyWXDv1XUQ67PeXGI11hD8pNVJg1ZQnZGvHfs6vTnwSC6rIWqjJDAtVVNryHls/s1600/canvas.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
This little DIY idea came about while I was decorating my mantle for Christmas and realized that something was missing. Immediately I wanted to run to the store and purchase a medium-sized mirror with a cute, white frame to sit behind everything, but sadly, I just couldn't justify the expense. I can, however, justify less pricy Hobby Lobby goodies with my 40% off coupon. :) While wandering throughout the store, I came across some canvases on sale and this canvas craft idea was born.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOEcH26o6eZ2FauzmrE62Ve2pOmvnNUnf9XEUUgCQjo8vC5YnzWolmhRQHcJf1VMZ4MgA-z_GuOgBIaJl4Yza57t60ESf9yQjXaZjj7P2ESilmXLtshM58Dg6dQadeXZ4O0ArKCIW14U/s1600/canvas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOEcH26o6eZ2FauzmrE62Ve2pOmvnNUnf9XEUUgCQjo8vC5YnzWolmhRQHcJf1VMZ4MgA-z_GuOgBIaJl4Yza57t60ESf9yQjXaZjj7P2ESilmXLtshM58Dg6dQadeXZ4O0ArKCIW14U/s1600/canvas1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>What you'll need:</b><br />
A canvas<br />
A snowflake cardboard cutout<br />
White spray paint<br />
Sparkle spray paint<br />
Hot glue gun<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEf3irIGa4DQeqJkFYA01BFUot_YEPH8g-yvR9h61czNYzRe9AFEaUOEpTs7K4hiSUWTx2buDq0kHzd__3FdVuojZ5cSnS0Fsh1a62rp9ED_LPcCHL3mGfPB468c0dQYcU0Lu3luaMPpM/s1600/canvas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEf3irIGa4DQeqJkFYA01BFUot_YEPH8g-yvR9h61czNYzRe9AFEaUOEpTs7K4hiSUWTx2buDq0kHzd__3FdVuojZ5cSnS0Fsh1a62rp9ED_LPcCHL3mGfPB468c0dQYcU0Lu3luaMPpM/s1600/canvas2.jpg" height="404" width="640" /></a></div>
The first thing I did when making this was spray paint the snowflake matte white. Since I didn't want to get wet in the snow and I'm lazy, I placed a shoebox right outside my backdoor and spray painted it while standing in my kitchen. In my hastiness, I completely forgot to spray the sides, so I had to go back and do that. After the white spray paint was dry the second time, I spray painted the whole snowflake with the clear silver sparkles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UjXFYTd-hCfd8L4pNhx2HA-SWzkewU-kUZ78tcDwnZQu_kwGULlj72DOMPMmBME3y5GlUKuMzgGdwZfeMfmVZpSKYDx6jpAyRnyORkX7E7b8_m_1bmM2TkNiDpsOayXMRnpf-rJZxTQ/s1600/canvas3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UjXFYTd-hCfd8L4pNhx2HA-SWzkewU-kUZ78tcDwnZQu_kwGULlj72DOMPMmBME3y5GlUKuMzgGdwZfeMfmVZpSKYDx6jpAyRnyORkX7E7b8_m_1bmM2TkNiDpsOayXMRnpf-rJZxTQ/s1600/canvas3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
When the snowflake is completely dry, hot glue it onto the canvas. Voila! Easiest craft ever.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7IwfDNIsu7TNMLxLIOlL1MtQ1v_0QAhbStEtriqFRVGh0aHZfsL9q6oDOrsB_LlpRkn0YDKYxSHqrITWCINDCNvZMwGwYr9bTtOH2XcRZVgDtx6-vdBOJMFkgOi7IRVCwQdzmWJohpw/s1600/DSC_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7IwfDNIsu7TNMLxLIOlL1MtQ1v_0QAhbStEtriqFRVGh0aHZfsL9q6oDOrsB_LlpRkn0YDKYxSHqrITWCINDCNvZMwGwYr9bTtOH2XcRZVgDtx6-vdBOJMFkgOi7IRVCwQdzmWJohpw/s1600/DSC_0217.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-18821383134354256282014-12-22T06:00:00.000-08:002014-12-22T14:10:29.118-08:00Santa Hat Cupcake Toppers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKXzqz9MZm0tlyqoMtDBSvT8Hdotiigj522o2YpH6fBcEM3sEieLIdZWnhyq-OjshNBGHdDyzgXd247oGHdL8yE8hwlulRoLcU2WIi7nUJLIht0EpmxGICOwulSvRdojSVBcyVVfQqyk7/s1600/SantaCupcake.2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKXzqz9MZm0tlyqoMtDBSvT8Hdotiigj522o2YpH6fBcEM3sEieLIdZWnhyq-OjshNBGHdDyzgXd247oGHdL8yE8hwlulRoLcU2WIi7nUJLIht0EpmxGICOwulSvRdojSVBcyVVfQqyk7/s1600/SantaCupcake.2.png" height="640" width="532" /></a></div>
<br />
A month or so ago, I volunteered to make the treat for our monthly family shenanigans. I forgot. Luckily, I had stashed just enough cupcakes away from a holiday party the night before and put them to good use. With frosting. Lots and lots of buttercream, vanilla-y frosting.<br />
<br />
Then, to dress it up for my Christmas-loving nieces, I crafted a few Santa hats with felt scraps, pom poms, and a hot glue gun. I considered including a photo of what my living room looked like afterwards. How do even the smallest of crafts turn into jumbo messes? I'm doing everything in my power to avoid cleaning it up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVy-zqNSMBgKUITsVPLZQ2muRkdezmFP98ZUJ-_KQ2fN1uGmkT-WOLjSQ1Oye-S8DE6wjvRJOZMpYKe_SgT4uSMPGSG64B2oNUCGw4VEqexlkykKZjXw2pq0PCC9Ux7wX67Dpi-syvGGb8/s1600/SantaHatCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVy-zqNSMBgKUITsVPLZQ2muRkdezmFP98ZUJ-_KQ2fN1uGmkT-WOLjSQ1Oye-S8DE6wjvRJOZMpYKe_SgT4uSMPGSG64B2oNUCGw4VEqexlkykKZjXw2pq0PCC9Ux7wX67Dpi-syvGGb8/s1600/SantaHatCollage.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's how to make this little guy:<br />
<br />
1. Cut a rounded triangle out of some felt.<br />
2. Hot glue a small pom pom to the top.<br />
3. Cut a larger pom pom in half & hot glue one half to the bottom of the felt.<br />
4. Hot glue a skewer to the back of the felt.<br />
<br />
<br />
Beyond the treats and the cute crafts and the present frenzy, I hope your holiday season has been happy and filled with the best of people. Three days til showtime.<br />
<br />
<br />Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-67236598148498842752014-12-19T05:00:00.000-08:002014-12-19T08:29:26.597-08:00The Weekly World Wide Web (with a little Christmas)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYwi0dqCV7Q9V9GYBkCFJMrBDfS-X0MspdpXeSK6nXGTPmvAZJf635Z262gx-hnVfrp8KojSGHXqBNBw100l9uPitnzseEmYqhY_EsAdV1cdfn9-OpR_cO1u8Z8W8SbYgnwZc8Btg59l3/s1600/WWWPHOTO.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYwi0dqCV7Q9V9GYBkCFJMrBDfS-X0MspdpXeSK6nXGTPmvAZJf635Z262gx-hnVfrp8KojSGHXqBNBw100l9uPitnzseEmYqhY_EsAdV1cdfn9-OpR_cO1u8Z8W8SbYgnwZc8Btg59l3/s1600/WWWPHOTO.png" height="366" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
1. <a href="http://www.mlovesmblog.com/2014/12/holiday-gifts-for-hostess.html">One of my favorite gift guides</a> from this year. Everything chosen was beautiful and right on par.<br />
<br />
2. A spot-on <a href="http://www.maskcara.com/2014/12/15/holiday-makeup-tutorial/">holiday makeup tutorial</a> from a popular beauty blogger.<br />
<br />
3. A <a href="http://www.shambray.com/2014/12/west-elm-glitter-star-garland-knockoff.html">star garland</a> (aka starland--see what I did there?) DIY to deck your halls with.<br />
<br />
4. And this oh-so-fancy <a href="http://www.alongabbeyroad.com/2014/12/peppermint-marshmallows-with-nutella.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+alongabbeyroad%2Fxnrf+%28Along+Abbey+Road%29">hot cocoa recipe</a>. Few things seem greater than a giant slab of pink marshmallow.<br />
<br />
Merry Six Days Until Christmas. Put yourself in the spirit with a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrLoWt2tfqg">beautiful Christmas song</a>, a speech<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKYJVV7HuZw"> about changing your perspective to be a little kinder</a>,and, of course, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0GBrP89PTY">a nativity</a>.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">--------------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.thepinjunkie.com/">The Pin Junkie</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-46334612248946240402014-12-17T07:13:00.001-08:002014-12-18T08:07:27.724-08:003 Ingredient Fudge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_711usJ0ZGTxJQLnUZNV02_3yF1cmgflqb9u3aUw2h4XMNIhOubDIIR-FYUxhWEfbubp43YdT85MNsS170_5U7XN_5riDkq-GgdmOQUwT8bQhD1QIn49Voz1Q3JXwAuPLK1QmWPlj1aY/s1600/3+ingredient+fudge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="fudge, Christmas treat, chocolate, candy cane, treat, sugar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_711usJ0ZGTxJQLnUZNV02_3yF1cmgflqb9u3aUw2h4XMNIhOubDIIR-FYUxhWEfbubp43YdT85MNsS170_5U7XN_5riDkq-GgdmOQUwT8bQhD1QIn49Voz1Q3JXwAuPLK1QmWPlj1aY/s1600/3+ingredient+fudge.jpg" height="640" title="Peachy Keen Blog: 3 Ingredient Fudge" width="462" /></a></div>
So, not to brag or anything, but I think I made some pretty great fudge last night. I was shocked. Normally my chocolate seizes (becomes a hard and crumbly mess) whenever I try to melt it, so needless to say, I did a happy dance when I did <i>not</i> ruin my chocolate and the fudge turned out beautifully. Plus, fudge. So why not do a happy dance?<br />
<br />
The best thing about this fudge is that it requires only 3 ingredients, but you can add anything else you'd like to it. You'll need 3 cups of chocolate chips, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, and 2 cups of marshmallows.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQ0Rusbf573_LRMECMyFPJUB4TyalrLPWl2sjQsIg8sA45LuG9A4sbUs9kgohnoT84kLvROJe_X_7gtlDMIPo4yVJsTeiYRb4gBGPdC9nDSUxqge2rUnXRKJ2HGoXCllNO9ATI1n3wH0/s1600/IMG_4638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQ0Rusbf573_LRMECMyFPJUB4TyalrLPWl2sjQsIg8sA45LuG9A4sbUs9kgohnoT84kLvROJe_X_7gtlDMIPo4yVJsTeiYRb4gBGPdC9nDSUxqge2rUnXRKJ2HGoXCllNO9ATI1n3wH0/s1600/IMG_4638.JPG" height="640" title="Peachy Keen Blog: 3 Ingredient Fudge" width="480" /></a></div>
First things first, place a sheet of parchment paper in a small 8x8 or 9x9 pan. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFTTtrNR0wo6CBf8u78CBQSYNntvY-Fmptbfk1JFcXy9oQoCiBIXYepE3VXOIK1BsRy5ktKcJe8jPnCusOViv_1xz667x1sXd3JQFRm5Gm4MC9bQgNAaTIioyNthDIIkiDY0_ZxNEsqk/s1600/IMG_4633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFTTtrNR0wo6CBf8u78CBQSYNntvY-Fmptbfk1JFcXy9oQoCiBIXYepE3VXOIK1BsRy5ktKcJe8jPnCusOViv_1xz667x1sXd3JQFRm5Gm4MC9bQgNAaTIioyNthDIIkiDY0_ZxNEsqk/s1600/IMG_4633.JPG" height="640" title="Peachy Keen Blog: 3 Ingredient Fudge" width="480" /></a> </div>
Second, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and marshmallows
in a stove top pan and turn heat on low. (I turned the nob on my stove
to 2 1/2-3.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8LcXnH7axtkaGxXqEayzDxmuMe-CbJsLUOFyTMLW-P5RozuimCX0jJ4EI8EYXrZidGw1Nz5NqSSHELq03lOqapba3LSxsxXawME5vnD_SEppOkgMI3vONO5Ea6vftSkKixAEA-QNyDw/s1600/IMG_4642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8LcXnH7axtkaGxXqEayzDxmuMe-CbJsLUOFyTMLW-P5RozuimCX0jJ4EI8EYXrZidGw1Nz5NqSSHELq03lOqapba3LSxsxXawME5vnD_SEppOkgMI3vONO5Ea6vftSkKixAEA-QNyDw/s1600/IMG_4642.JPG" height="640" title="Peachy Keen Blog: 3 Ingredient Fudge" width="480" /></a></div>
Third, stir your mixture constantly so the chocolate won't seize. It took about 5 minutes for everything to melt and combine, but my Christmas music playing in the background kept me sane. ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgK0ZX0LsznQgOMn7yzwIKepd4eniulT3wmXGxOKlSb6ssKeF4XAzyTbwx5iEfNMDw_w9CRqJKAy33ZsG0_w-v0Aifw8bgsa9etutWl9ehQPtgeAkdGejMjZFUqz5VwqhfaoaE9PG_BzM/s1600/IMG_4643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgK0ZX0LsznQgOMn7yzwIKepd4eniulT3wmXGxOKlSb6ssKeF4XAzyTbwx5iEfNMDw_w9CRqJKAy33ZsG0_w-v0Aifw8bgsa9etutWl9ehQPtgeAkdGejMjZFUqz5VwqhfaoaE9PG_BzM/s1600/IMG_4643.JPG" height="640" title="Peachy Keen Blog: 3 Ingredient Fudge" width="480" /></a></div>
Fourth, I poured the chocolate mixture into my pan and spread it into each corner. I then threw some candy canes in my food processor and sprinkled the pieces on top. (You could use nuts, toasted coconut, toffee pieces, other candy, etc.) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4TBem7GdKdXyZGS4gH3FORU9ca7DnV6ibVI6TcFGktdnx1ioD_hTsS0WdvwU0oTJssNPOeZv-CBRIed8K_DHv41TVPv2omO4oJR6dO_YV5NoiN7MIjuL6nsPizlek85ZZyb2xVAYj9IA/s1600/IMG_4645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4TBem7GdKdXyZGS4gH3FORU9ca7DnV6ibVI6TcFGktdnx1ioD_hTsS0WdvwU0oTJssNPOeZv-CBRIed8K_DHv41TVPv2omO4oJR6dO_YV5NoiN7MIjuL6nsPizlek85ZZyb2xVAYj9IA/s1600/IMG_4645.JPG" height="640" title="Peachy Keen Blog: 3 Ingredient Fudge" width="480" /></a></div>
Fifth, after letting the pan sit in the fridge for an hour, I pulled it out and cut the fudge into pieces. I found that it's much easier to lift the parchment paper out of the pan before cutting it. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZToOQTnbhpC3DpjCgFzf0s012jAwuvWhgO2YZKbTBxK-NjOcRDT_BwVx_604CopiQVun323xI3r69oSD8AjmIA0NiUh1DnnABFK0_llu-uF4TOQZg6A64heFsrdMAFDPQsF3-sWPSIo/s1600/fudge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZToOQTnbhpC3DpjCgFzf0s012jAwuvWhgO2YZKbTBxK-NjOcRDT_BwVx_604CopiQVun323xI3r69oSD8AjmIA0NiUh1DnnABFK0_llu-uF4TOQZg6A64heFsrdMAFDPQsF3-sWPSIo/s1600/fudge.jpg" height="480" title="Peachy Keen Blog: 3 Ingredient Fudge" width="640" /></a></div>
Lastly, share that kick-A fudge with everyone and anyone you know! Nothing says "Happy Holidays!" like a heavenly piece of fudge.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<i>3 c. chocolate chips</i><br />
<i>1 (14 oz.) can of sweetened condensed milk</i><br />
<i>2 c. mini marshmallows</i><br />
<i>2 crushed candy canes, or other desired topping</i><br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Place a sheet of parchment paper in an 8x8 or 9x9 pan.<br />
2. Combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and marshmallows
in a stove top pan and turn heat on low. (I turned the nob on my stove
to 2.5/3)<br />
3. Stir your mixture constantly until everything is melted.<br />
4. Pour the fudge into the pan and spread it into
each corner. Before it starts to cool, sprinkle on your desired topping.<br />
5. Let the fudge chill in the fridge for an hour. Cut into pieces and enjoy!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">-----------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linking up over here today:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/">Coastal Charm</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/"></a><a href="http://yesterfood.blogspot.com/">Yesterfood</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://oombawkadesigncrochet.com/2014/12/link-and-share-wednesday-party-72.html">Oombawka Design</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.amynewnostalgia.com/">New Nostalgia</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://asimplepantry.com/2014/12/create-share-diy-recipe-party-36.html">A Simple Pantry</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2014/12/wow-us-wednesdays-200.html#more">Savvy Southern Style</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://bajantexan.blogspot.com/2014/12/pin-worthy-wednesday-14.html#more">Bajan Texan</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/">Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson</a> </span></div>
Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-39421218131657060932014-12-16T09:06:00.002-08:002014-12-16T09:06:32.939-08:00Girls' Night Christmas Party!Most of my friends here in St. Louis I've met through my church group, and practically all of them followed their husbands out here for law school, medical school, or PhD programs. Basically, everyone at church is a student or is married to one, and that means that the weeks leading up to Christmas are stressful times of studying for finals and writing papers. With that being said, I knew that planning a Christmas party with couples would be tricky with school schedules and people taking off for the holidays, so a night with the girls it was! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9oES7JTQHyqZ17esujwcAWmdlfqXbMw9xrfy7HcUtnUoKOD9BMulynlUUDgoGJs3hGRVim_HUIdIe5x3kiTANvvXvBy_GxJSvI_XM6awU7FtmrSBlp36kkyg1lo_EUxEIgBrq4EpjHw/s1600/DSC_0338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9oES7JTQHyqZ17esujwcAWmdlfqXbMw9xrfy7HcUtnUoKOD9BMulynlUUDgoGJs3hGRVim_HUIdIe5x3kiTANvvXvBy_GxJSvI_XM6awU7FtmrSBlp36kkyg1lo_EUxEIgBrq4EpjHw/s1600/DSC_0338.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
We started off with a hot chocolate + toppings bar and cookies. It was great because everyone could customize their hot chocolate to their liking, there were enough choices that everyone's drinks could be as exciting or boring as they wanted, and just the fact that it was hot chocolate was great. (I found a homemade hot chocolate recipe on Pinterest that definitely blew my expectations out of the water, and I'd link to it if I could find it. Oops! It was made by melting the marshmallows into it all.) The holidays are all about sweets and warm drinks, right? :)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAsfEaZkbDFxZcqnoBV48-fe3uOa4TDY2rBqrTtJQXO54L9VDGL_gyxUyRguFjmjKs33PvWpRRa5uRF6Tsw4m_aEJcR-5SF-7zMNbbQGBAZCrokhZegXwR4mIEannxkPt1S3QVmVfQ3Q/s1600/hot+chocolate+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAsfEaZkbDFxZcqnoBV48-fe3uOa4TDY2rBqrTtJQXO54L9VDGL_gyxUyRguFjmjKs33PvWpRRa5uRF6Tsw4m_aEJcR-5SF-7zMNbbQGBAZCrokhZegXwR4mIEannxkPt1S3QVmVfQ3Q/s1600/hot+chocolate+bar.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a> Hot chocolate: homemade & peppermint hot chocolate.<br />
Toppings/Mix-Ins: candy canes, marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon, peppermint Kisses, M&M's, truffles, Pirouette rolled wafers, coconut, and Andes mints.<br />
Cookies: my mother-in-law's candy cane shortbread cookies, cake mix peppermint Kisses cookies, brownie brittle, and mint chocolate cookies.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMi0XnUa94XVXJ8-7zqIc4HjFQzA0nq3uml7-eYWbS52oHyJDLNek7Mi9xrgV52vg7r8O2PNiOXku1jqQ42HPO8tUyz0hAtizHPJ7658KYfQGz54ZMi2y631vmknnBGBhYitjugajI24/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMi0XnUa94XVXJ8-7zqIc4HjFQzA0nq3uml7-eYWbS52oHyJDLNek7Mi9xrgV52vg7r8O2PNiOXku1jqQ42HPO8tUyz0hAtizHPJ7658KYfQGz54ZMi2y631vmknnBGBhYitjugajI24/s1600/cookies.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a> After we had a chance to get some treats and chat a bit, we played a few games. The first game we played was the "Oven Mitt" game. It has a million different names, so you might know it as something else. Before the party, I wrapped two little gifts I picked up from the store at least 30 times. (It helps if you turn on a Netflix show or something to distract you from the monotonous task!) With everyone sitting in the circle, you take turns rolling two dice trying to get doubles as someone puts on oven mitts and uses a plastic fork and knife to try to open the present. As soon as someone rolls doubles, the person unwrapping the present has to stop and quickly pass everything to the other person. The game is over when someone gets through the last layer and can see what the present is.<br />
<br />
We also did a small gift exchange. In the invite, I specified that we wanted to keep things around $3, <b>but</b> the gift had to be something red or green...not necessarily something Christmasy! My friend, Lauren, who threw the party with me found a fun story on Pinterest that dictated which direction the gifts were passed. For example, every time she said the word "left," we passed to the left. It was a lot more fun than the traditional steal a present three times kind of gift exchange, and I was impressed with the diversity of the gifts! People ended up getting lipgloss, fingernail polish, a candle, a pomegranate & red candy, winter socks, etc.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcT9enyvVIyM1EDgGw3cmt6q5zeJHzT52mNR5gBDCSL7yw572NXe-C6lFuYqxdTGVMgNEmzp6Waqv9eYLJL_5L15vT-0lYiqbO5mOLYDk2VJRiBUyJKTNhSXjuCxSOVjfoZSKB2Pcr3U/s1600/girls+night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcT9enyvVIyM1EDgGw3cmt6q5zeJHzT52mNR5gBDCSL7yw572NXe-C6lFuYqxdTGVMgNEmzp6Waqv9eYLJL_5L15vT-0lYiqbO5mOLYDk2VJRiBUyJKTNhSXjuCxSOVjfoZSKB2Pcr3U/s1600/girls+night.jpg" height="404" width="640" /></a></div>
The best thing planned for the night was the photo booth! Most of the time when we get together for girls' nights, we forget to snap a picture or two of the group, so it was fun to have people rotating in front of the camera and dressing up. (I went to Dollar Tree a few days before the party and bought a few reindeer antlers/Santa hats/elf hats/etc. and got everything for less than $5.) To make the background, I taped sheets of wrapping paper to the wall and hung some lights with Command hooks. Easy, cheap, and not hard to clean up!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrI8xXpSUyP6HVnn3mYPbpxo71S0CCKSeCPX3Mp3tKLjHXZr4NecA53G93_GQcEfNM5YMOsAZ9ulrGSVp7MqtDQXEjGN6p7WWflUdWELwxl6fySTASgyibxk5BHqhL0eMciiiKKU9U5Y/s1600/DSC_0318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrI8xXpSUyP6HVnn3mYPbpxo71S0CCKSeCPX3Mp3tKLjHXZr4NecA53G93_GQcEfNM5YMOsAZ9ulrGSVp7MqtDQXEjGN6p7WWflUdWELwxl6fySTASgyibxk5BHqhL0eMciiiKKU9U5Y/s1600/DSC_0318.jpg" height="438" width="640" /></a></div>
Have you thrown a Christmas party this year? What kinds of games did you play, if any? Did you do a gift exchange, have treats, or require people to wear ugly sweaters?Lexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11419306052252521554noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1513932012449852660.post-28676280157055597432014-12-15T05:00:00.000-08:002014-12-15T07:32:44.901-08:00A Christmas Card for You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMyIVqx3qwuD8j7ykapvFAfVFJK4nhkRKGFyuN7GkWIefkjlO767cwFf6zIrkQ0e9bRKkrD5r3PIiYKQ2yFfUlsDzRP0EM2q2PG_B11cE4lEbhG5ciu-Imo9d0vLahLfGeNVA1Gw48cqZ/s1600/CollageChristmas.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMyIVqx3qwuD8j7ykapvFAfVFJK4nhkRKGFyuN7GkWIefkjlO767cwFf6zIrkQ0e9bRKkrD5r3PIiYKQ2yFfUlsDzRP0EM2q2PG_B11cE4lEbhG5ciu-Imo9d0vLahLfGeNVA1Gw48cqZ/s1600/CollageChristmas.png" height="470" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Hello, hello. How are you? Is it Christmas yet?* Will it ever snow? Because it's basically summer over here. Which I'm actually fine with, because I spilled the topping from my leftover Tucano's flan all over my winter coat & now it's covered in a crunchy, sticky, caramel coating. Laundry is not a thing that happens during finals week. The poor coat.<br />
<br />
Christmas cards have been trickling in through the mail. I pin each one to my refrigerator using those cheap magnets that businesses print their logos on and hand out during Fourth of July parades or staple to the phone book. (Any places that sell stylish magnets? Let me know). I <i>love </i>Christmas cards. It combines several great things: personal mail, people I love, and, duh, Christmas. Seeing photos of friends and family serves as a good reminder of what I'm supposed to be focusing on during the holidays.<br />
<br />
Plus, sometimes you get one of those fabulously brag-tastic, 10 pagers. You know the ones, About your distant cousin Maury who traveled to Fiji and France and the North Pole this year, where he saved baby seals and cured a disease?<br />
<br />
Anyways, since the big day is sneaking up on us--10 days!--here's to wishing you the happiest of holidays. Our<a href="http://alizabethrinner.com/"> good friend</a> kindly snapped a few shots for our first Christmas card last week. If I could afford the stamps to send one to all of you, I would. But for now, here's the virtual version.<br />
<br />
And a few outtake (happy <a href="http://apeachykeenblog.blogspot.com/2014/12/glitter-christmas-garlands-happy-pair.html">our decorations</a> doubled as a last-minute backdrop):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpUfAtAYgrxEY7EUTXlDungpjUDqDgtq9_qz-ue1V_Hb8AMhgu0hK_7Na8_Do_iBBKfB2Vo7jsKO2KsjzQWyKLMBbzV8NdpDl8vTakVdYfRHyCYu0nE-CuOG6yp02DGPKbWoiC8ZhC5Gj/s1600/ChristmasOuttakeCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpUfAtAYgrxEY7EUTXlDungpjUDqDgtq9_qz-ue1V_Hb8AMhgu0hK_7Na8_Do_iBBKfB2Vo7jsKO2KsjzQWyKLMBbzV8NdpDl8vTakVdYfRHyCYu0nE-CuOG6yp02DGPKbWoiC8ZhC5Gj/s1600/ChristmasOuttakeCollage.png" height="326" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://isitchristmas.com/">*This site will always let you know if it is indeed Christmas. </a></span><br />
<br />
Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals.Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06554725987912905947noreply@blogger.com0