tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50629346890742472322024-03-12T18:20:33.516-07:00Easy Rules by Ems and JulesTwo Sisters. Eleven Children. A Million Easy Rules.Ems L.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15706813780836832989noreply@blogger.comBlogger188125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-88827161062653918172016-11-06T07:27:00.002-08:002016-11-06T07:27:57.785-08:00Branching Out<div style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Ems here:<br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> Hi everyone! All is well in our household, just busy, busy. Soccer season has just ended--we had 3 kids in rec soccer and 3 in travel soccer. Our life was pretty much lived at the fields. The littles got used to packing up our survival "snack bag" for the hours spent on the sidelines...as long as we had a steady flow of food, they entertained themselves quite well jumping off bleachers, pulling up weeds to make me lovely bouquets, or tackling each other in the grass. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">We are knee-deep in school. The rest of our time is spent making sure Gemma (20 months now) doesn't fall off the top bunk, suck toothpaste tubes, or smear Vicks Vapor Rub all over her face and hands. Not that those things have happened.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Anyway, because I obviously have a lot of free time, I decided to embark on a new endeavor. I've always fiddled with the notion of contributing in a small way to our family's finances, just to give us a bit of a cushion and some "fun" money. Since my primary vocation is with the children and home, it would have to be something that would enable me to balance it all, ideally even including the kids at some level. This post is about my decision!</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">The thought of entering the world of direct sales was intimidating, especially to an introvert like myself. There is no denying, however, the appeal of earning extra money for the family as a homeschool stay-at-home mom! After researching many companies</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> (and with inspiration from my mom)</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">, I mad</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">e the leap and decided on AVON.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Here’</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">s why:</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1. </span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">Longevity</span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">:</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Avon has been around for 130 years. That’s right, 130. </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"></span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Beginning in 1886 with door-to-door salesman and amateur perfume maker, David McConnell, Avon has weathered many an economic storm in it</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">s history—including the Gr</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">eat Depression. A company </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">won’t survive unless it produces a quality product that people want; Avon has obviously succeeded in those areas to become a beloved and respected industry name.</span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">2. </span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">Affordability</span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">:</span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;"> </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">This</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> was a huge selling point for me. Living in an area of the country that is struggling with prosperity, I simply could not see asking folks to spend large quantities of money on exorbitantly priced makeup or kitchen items or candles…I w</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">ould feel guilty and like a scam-artist, frankly. With</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> Avon, most items are comparably-priced</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> to those found at your neighbor</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">hood </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">drugstore. To get Avon’s quality at drugstore prices?! I can work with that, and feel confident that my customers are in a win-win situation.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">3. </span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">Quality</span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">:</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Avon has high-quality products that I am proud to offer. For example, </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">the Anew Ultimate Supreme Advanced Performance Crème is garnering high praise, outdistancing a similar </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Lancome</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> product (priced over $300); Avon’s product is only $34.99. Everyone can afford to feel beautiful! The Avon Skincare Institute is “at the forefront of skin care innovation with state-of-the-art research and development labs spanning five continents, hundreds of scientists, nearly 600 patents, and partnerships with top univer</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">sities</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> and dermatologists.”</span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">4. </span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">Variety</span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">:</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> With Avon, there is literally something for everyone. Makeup, skin care, bath products, fragrances, jewelry, and fashion—as you browse the website or the beautiful brochures that are released every two weeks, you will see an array of new and exciting offerings. And of course, the Avon classics like Skin So Soft are always available!</span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">5. </span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">Potential</span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">:</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> Just like any other endeavor with potential success, you get back what you put in. I am willing to put myself out there and</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> step</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> outside my comfort zone in the hopes of building a </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">profitable business with loyal and satisfied customers. Does this sound </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">appealing</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> to you too? Avon is always looking for new representatives, and with minimal start-up costs (as low as $25) and no inventory needed, it’s a simple way to potentially change your life for the better. Contact me for more information and I’d be happy to help.</span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">6. </span><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; text-decoration: underline;">Responsibility</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">: Last but not least, Avon calls itself “the company for women” and says it is “beauty with a purpose.” With philanthropic efforts in the crusades against breast cancer and </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">domestic violence, as well as environmental sustainability, Avon is a company that </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">you can feel confident in supporting.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Since Avon's "storefront" is it's catalogs, I don't have to throw parties or find hosts--an exhausting prospect for me! Instead, I have to show people the offerings by getting a catalog in their hands, and then start a conversation. The children help me hang the catalogs on neighborhood front doors, so the whole family can be part of it:) I even have an eStore so that my friends and family far away (sniff) can shop too!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Anyway, I hope you got a good idea of why I chose direct sales, and more specifically, Avon. If you are considering doing the same, I would encourage you to do your research and get ready to jump in with both feet! </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.youravon.com/eloot"><span class="s5" style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: black;">www.youravon.com/eloot</span></span></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">email: </span><a href="mailto:emloot@gmail.com"><span class="s5" style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">emloot@gmail.com</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="s5" style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">I will be blogging more, just fyi. I feel like I am emerging from the craziness of baby-survival, and I'm still not pregnant lol. During this (probably short) period of time, I'm trying to get a lot accomplished....perhaps I will even exercise? With a fitbit? Hmmmmm....let me just put down this brownie....</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Easy Rule #590: Don't be afraid to try something new, just be prepared to give it 100% effort.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Easy Rule #39: Pack lots of snacks wherever you go.</span></div>
Ems L.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15706813780836832989noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-82327479570320339112016-11-02T19:10:00.000-07:002016-11-02T19:10:03.462-07:00FitBit Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Jules here-<br />
<br />
My sister, Betsy, blessed me with a FitBit for my birthday, and I instantly became addicted to the concept. My fiance's family all have Fitbits and they were thrilled to see that I joined their elitist fitness club. My first Fitbit was the flex:<br />
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It's small, simple in design and linked via bluetooth to my phone so I could see my step progress. It had a low profile, sleek and a very good transition to wearing something on my wrist (I am not a watch or bracelet fan). However, the biggest flaw in this generation of Fitbit is the wristband itself... it popped off my wrist while doing errands and I lost it :( My fiance took pity on me and upgraded me to the Fitbit Charge 2:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSFzniinOdXZaQLmZ707N_QQtZe8Rza31HeExjVEofoj6KKG3bXquaXnCV70oZjNNhDp1SL_hn-RcrvB6OB3XVbibs3b67r714YB98AJM1G8oN5dNaqbo2OI0D2-AOu2myILg9VQxAyko/s1600/Fitbitultra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSFzniinOdXZaQLmZ707N_QQtZe8Rza31HeExjVEofoj6KKG3bXquaXnCV70oZjNNhDp1SL_hn-RcrvB6OB3XVbibs3b67r714YB98AJM1G8oN5dNaqbo2OI0D2-AOu2myILg9VQxAyko/s320/Fitbitultra.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
At first, I was a little hesitant because it was wider than my flex, but this one had WAY more features including the time and step display as well as heart rate monitoring. The Charge also clocks how many flights of stairs (some Fitbit flex do as well) and your sleep patterns as well. As someone who know has owned a Fitbit for a few months, here is my personal and professional review.<br />
<br />
<b>The Positives:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><b>LOVE getting credit for steps</b>: As a mom, I am always running around, gathering laundry, herding children, etc. It's a great perk to my mood when I realize that I got 1500 steps every morning just getting the kids out the door to school!</li>
<li><b>Competition spurs activity: </b>Part of the fun of the Fitbit is befriending people and competing for daily steps-- plus, I naturally like to achieve my own personal daily goals as well. When seeing how close I am to meeting a goal, it's easy to motivate myself to go for a walk or jog in place!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTR0kD3H1JUMB70iuscUNz4bamLgStxz0gC1JYHN0nmOXrvrkX47EJYGBX1tPWjK5jb9H8l-V2-GEFjRx1g-fGv727LZBpJA6YApFLe3lsCFP4UXZ6ITB7h4jM2lGaAuvaZ9T1_tdt0U/s1600/Fitbitjoke2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTR0kD3H1JUMB70iuscUNz4bamLgStxz0gC1JYHN0nmOXrvrkX47EJYGBX1tPWjK5jb9H8l-V2-GEFjRx1g-fGv727LZBpJA6YApFLe3lsCFP4UXZ6ITB7h4jM2lGaAuvaZ9T1_tdt0U/s1600/Fitbitjoke2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Encourages "Active" minutes: </b>Because the Charge monitors heart rate, it will tell you how often you have a series of "exercise" minutes-- consistent HR and sustained movement. </li>
<li><b>Cardio-fitness level</b>- After monitoring your heart rate for a few days, the Charge assesses your fitness level by comparing your max cardio with your baseline or resting HR. It uses that data to put you on the American Heart Associations cardio fitness scale.</li>
<li><b>Monitoring your sleep</b>: I love and hate this feature-- sometimes it's depressing to see how many times you awaken at night, other times it's awesome to see how quickly you fell and stayed asleep! Great way to watch for habits/cycles.</li>
<li><b>Watching the for trends</b>: I bet this Ultra could be a great tool for some of my patients. For example, I donate blood every couple of months, and I assumed I bounced back quickly. It took 3.5-4 weeks after donation for my HR to drop back to my normal resting heart rate (54 BPM), it stayed at 65-68 BPM after I donated for weeks!! It indicates that I stay MUCH more anemic than I thought....<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS68gkBL1wklH-QkPhJzcOC9qlPiagIiYeKN2bP86w9iiE8rUX-gWgyTWVur3HbFy_JskwInAj1ZA2X9YIffok51u7vNr8LuJeCkrNLlp7NDPRS5Q2UCOX2YzH77RIRDC6GuWJ5NhyZzY/s1600/fitbitjoke3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS68gkBL1wklH-QkPhJzcOC9qlPiagIiYeKN2bP86w9iiE8rUX-gWgyTWVur3HbFy_JskwInAj1ZA2X9YIffok51u7vNr8LuJeCkrNLlp7NDPRS5Q2UCOX2YzH77RIRDC6GuWJ5NhyZzY/s1600/fitbitjoke3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b> </b></li>
<li><b>Being a better mom</b>: I really like getting steps in-- which means I don't complain or sigh as much when my kids ask me to tuck them in one more time, or if I have to do one more flight of stairs for a forgotten piece of laundry. Plus I played WAY more tag and relay races this summer! It changes my perception of movement and activity.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPq3zx19Pmw6PAS0WijXYgNx8agfo6kWmzQlIgfe8SCnR_3VnvVQXxEAty9_ShcRkgSu7aa-MJoEwttIqMIkszums_wAX8zwJzImD9CHCKdw5dhXf7Z7vwCqWGIjrhOaFinRRJCj62zfc/s1600/Lake+view.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPq3zx19Pmw6PAS0WijXYgNx8agfo6kWmzQlIgfe8SCnR_3VnvVQXxEAty9_ShcRkgSu7aa-MJoEwttIqMIkszums_wAX8zwJzImD9CHCKdw5dhXf7Z7vwCqWGIjrhOaFinRRJCj62zfc/s320/Lake+view.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walk to the lake? 3,500 steps.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
</ul>
<b>The Negatives:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><b> Competition.....or... Obession?</b> Betsy and I are particularly competitive and sometimes during our "friendly" challenges we go to the extreme. After I walked 30,000 steps in a day, I wondered if I might take things a bit too far..... my body was a bit exhausted.</li>
<li><b>Sometimes bad parenting.</b> I know, I am contradicting myself, but all things need a balance... I don't sit and read as much and I squeeze in more work-out/walking time. It sometimes makes me a bit selfish to accomplish my goals. </li>
<li><b>Unfair guidelines sometimes</b>- I do High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) where my heartrate is a great cardio workout, etc.... then after 30 minutes I only get 1,500 steps. Meanwhile, I can saunter the neighborhood for 30 minutes and get 3,000 steps.... not exactly the best metric for fitness. </li>
<li><b>Walk ridiculously. </b>How can I hold my grocery cart and still get the steps to count!?!? Seriously. I swing my arm like a maniac narrowly missing innocent shoppers with my haphazard one-handed steering....</li>
<li><b>Worthless steps. </b>When I forget my Fitbit or if it's charging, exercise/walking seems worthless.... seriously.... <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbCxixiOXe92YQzUA5uFvcDcYN7cXbxm21vQzFrE7HU74wRXNp2kKC31QRroVpKvUXyZdGw_JyAOcLFZwCHL2Mi18ByxoAP9GwGskNV8fFp-XCGyR_LEBlXmyr7P3V8X09E4IxSiFNx4/s1600/fitbitjoke4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbCxixiOXe92YQzUA5uFvcDcYN7cXbxm21vQzFrE7HU74wRXNp2kKC31QRroVpKvUXyZdGw_JyAOcLFZwCHL2Mi18ByxoAP9GwGskNV8fFp-XCGyR_LEBlXmyr7P3V8X09E4IxSiFNx4/s320/fitbitjoke4.jpg" width="189" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So true</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /> </li>
</ul>
Sum up: I really do love the Fitbit. It can change your perception of daily chores and your movement levels. I would spring for the more expensive models that have better clasps and cooler heart rate monitoring features!<br />
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Easy Rule #532342- A new fad can be fun and healthy!<br />
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Easy Rule #342342- "Friendly" competition doesn't exist for fiercely competitive people. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-70945612150075164792016-10-08T08:01:00.003-07:002016-10-08T08:02:15.310-07:00Prodigal Blogger<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hi, I’m Jules.<br />
I used to be a blogger.<br />
It has been 4 months since my last posting.<br />
I am sorry.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What, pray tell, are my excuses? Well, here they are:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Summer happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As soon as the weather was beautiful, my children have a tendency to
stay up later, and I have the tendency to be tired after they finally are abed….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a FANTASTIC time from swimming at our
beach, visiting friends, and of course golf.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51zXam6hmZJ42qoteQSQqCaJD2hQnS4_66jt8GOv0XxoP9eVQimlnVW1DmI4bb6-V2rPQEc20sfR2nt1raJzCsrwXyxMQN82HivBMCu1izwBAD0o99g59JS4tkOKCsBq9P85mummG9Yg/s1600/Girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51zXam6hmZJ42qoteQSQqCaJD2hQnS4_66jt8GOv0XxoP9eVQimlnVW1DmI4bb6-V2rPQEc20sfR2nt1raJzCsrwXyxMQN82HivBMCu1izwBAD0o99g59JS4tkOKCsBq9P85mummG9Yg/s320/Girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-nLabghRaAvdVTxN6FlaurYOjH5JhnHC856749jgZB5D0MeiMBsdVoknM0mnUGG6Co-8SgmE8DBFqRi6MPhv-f-GaDKwgdHpDYZltapBZtDRwJjswftVbcS3ew00TNWqLMtZTmQJ2O9k/s1600/Boatride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-nLabghRaAvdVTxN6FlaurYOjH5JhnHC856749jgZB5D0MeiMBsdVoknM0mnUGG6Co-8SgmE8DBFqRi6MPhv-f-GaDKwgdHpDYZltapBZtDRwJjswftVbcS3ew00TNWqLMtZTmQJ2O9k/s320/Boatride.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLQlci05ur4x-NKlCL76dyj9WrfsO7ZUL5CAbX29wJKczqC99ICFjU3yQyXU1Zhf6CAJKjN3z3y1r1qv7iEgv0ogggEViXbYLAyH0y2mMbD9oFU2tsaDqsbvmv2vmtBk9s_LLVlYKoI4/s1600/Summer+kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLQlci05ur4x-NKlCL76dyj9WrfsO7ZUL5CAbX29wJKczqC99ICFjU3yQyXU1Zhf6CAJKjN3z3y1r1qv7iEgv0ogggEViXbYLAyH0y2mMbD9oFU2tsaDqsbvmv2vmtBk9s_LLVlYKoI4/s320/Summer+kids.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsYbDrvJfl5M-HjJiYTkFfS3zBLJ-67lyjo6rlX4wYPIZRrJKTKJQbopA4duBhCxNOOK5qTaTHhAGJHAmf25TnbLCzfmdoGHsqZX7ej90in1L99gLd1UGejoLYeZmzNvxtXlSygYAC_A/s1600/Beach+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsYbDrvJfl5M-HjJiYTkFfS3zBLJ-67lyjo6rlX4wYPIZRrJKTKJQbopA4duBhCxNOOK5qTaTHhAGJHAmf25TnbLCzfmdoGHsqZX7ej90in1L99gLd1UGejoLYeZmzNvxtXlSygYAC_A/s320/Beach+view.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaJXzAa-an7jl50ivujsOOKmyKBDwzlWjMrH7UsMkWWy-GsIylDt-DIdplgX43qQ2FdjDQitMXjWzNr4MgcnA2MF48uyvlSuIGBThtzL8PH7PJxCoXwxPOPHIlxBOoU05_XQsnA-j4TU/s1600/Beach+3+kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaJXzAa-an7jl50ivujsOOKmyKBDwzlWjMrH7UsMkWWy-GsIylDt-DIdplgX43qQ2FdjDQitMXjWzNr4MgcnA2MF48uyvlSuIGBThtzL8PH7PJxCoXwxPOPHIlxBOoU05_XQsnA-j4TU/s320/Beach+3+kids.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I got a 2<sup>nd</sup> degree burn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, a few days before my birthday in June, I
spilled 425 degree oil on my arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
melted my flesh and I had to bandage it for almost 2 weeks which limited my
typing ability, sleeping patterns, and general abilities in life….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be warned, the picture is gross….</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzpksfmcjLrw2fvurHbOpSPOlzR_k5PnE-3tfT9TTAtAIHxxDDKlYedifc_FjM1zTtSPJLo4HUaTxg9-s3mOqNziXLlkO5GmGEX7PtmrZaJOnaJy8vmPNHCgEi9N9Z70iH-NpXxlDNuc/s1600/Burn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzpksfmcjLrw2fvurHbOpSPOlzR_k5PnE-3tfT9TTAtAIHxxDDKlYedifc_FjM1zTtSPJLo4HUaTxg9-s3mOqNziXLlkO5GmGEX7PtmrZaJOnaJy8vmPNHCgEi9N9Z70iH-NpXxlDNuc/s320/Burn.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I had a fantastic surprise birthday party!! My
daughter, Grace, gathered together a team of friends to throw me a fantastic surprise
party! She was thrilled that she pulled it off and I got the most amazing cake
and food!!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfBsMHl9ND6D7IbQvh3NxunG2YOHDxpzIU1vS0O0-3WAxgmqkAJt9XtVKsFcPzcSfYpWlOIWERljWqGVSBci94UyYkLUTEgli3-cosppbA7t_KrsuUn3F9IpNMwB_tM6FaojttTY3Dmg/s1600/Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfBsMHl9ND6D7IbQvh3NxunG2YOHDxpzIU1vS0O0-3WAxgmqkAJt9XtVKsFcPzcSfYpWlOIWERljWqGVSBci94UyYkLUTEgli3-cosppbA7t_KrsuUn3F9IpNMwB_tM6FaojttTY3Dmg/s320/Cake.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I got ENGAGED!!! I never thought I would
re-marry, but God had a different plan for me, and I have never been happier. I
will be marrying this December, so wedding plans, and what not <span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJA0CpKaMMn8ZdShZcB4PBfzXWVArH66I5FtX7EUbgn3CnSxe3Seu3pm9S_F8eHEowH-Tsm4E2NXSByPStDrHPZ1G3tjO-yp8sUlSQ-1wbsVQvx8YjdLDQ-DEyKWfx_NSZ-NHtwxrBfo/s1600/Engagement2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJA0CpKaMMn8ZdShZcB4PBfzXWVArH66I5FtX7EUbgn3CnSxe3Seu3pm9S_F8eHEowH-Tsm4E2NXSByPStDrHPZ1G3tjO-yp8sUlSQ-1wbsVQvx8YjdLDQ-DEyKWfx_NSZ-NHtwxrBfo/s320/Engagement2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRVUp3AZ-y03oX33IMyb3_Cu7oI00lFmHVe0ZMyiqpRvNzJu3WC_OzeDyDXC7q4dWdQrnWKKIXjMegk8RTTLnbVCWzGHG42K66smbmdSVK4xtDnkW9625XfBg6o_a7bASaQrKzqLYVHE/s1600/Engagement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRVUp3AZ-y03oX33IMyb3_Cu7oI00lFmHVe0ZMyiqpRvNzJu3WC_OzeDyDXC7q4dWdQrnWKKIXjMegk8RTTLnbVCWzGHG42K66smbmdSVK4xtDnkW9625XfBg6o_a7bASaQrKzqLYVHE/s320/Engagement.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Fourth of July fun—We always hit up parades,
fireworks, and BBQ on the Fourth. Yes, it is one day, and it’s not much of an
excuse for not typing, but the pictures are cute <span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></span></div>
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</span></span></span>Traveling to DELAWARE!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year we did our family reunion at
Bethany Beach in Delaware.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was an
amazing time with hot weather, fun games, and great family times.</div>
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<ul>
<li> We also celebrated the Olympics with some themed-food for the opening ceremonies: </li>
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</span></span></span>Back to reality. Then school started. I kept
saying, “Oh, I’ll post soon.” Or, “I’ll post after the first day of school,
etc.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>And finally, I want to admit that I started
SEVERAL blog posts, but never finished them, here are their titles:</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>How to Keep Your Kid From Being a Jerk- an OT
perspective</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Updates on My Life- I originally intended this
as my Winter Wedding planning blog</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Hosting a Game Night (I do one once a week) </div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Summer Goals- Now I am just too embarrassed to
put that I didn’t meet ANY of the schooling goals I had with the kids…. </div>
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Sorry for the delay in posting- I hope we still have readers :) Let me know any topics that you would like to read about!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-63352528116961316842016-05-05T08:14:00.002-07:002016-05-05T08:14:58.482-07:00A Letter to Teachers<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Dear Teachers,<br />
<br />
I don't envy you. I've worked in the schools this year and I have watched the defiant, unruly children who challenge you. I've seen how your hands are tied- you can barely discipline without a parental complaint or challenge. Some of these children have never been taught to respect authority, to listen to instructions, or to sit still. And you are expected to manage those few children along with a classroom of other students. <br />
<br />
You also might have a child like my daughter in your class: sweet, quiet, studious, and shy. She always sits when told, stands quietly in the line, and never disobeys. You may be overjoyed to have a non-trouble maker in the mix. Though she has a gentle smile on her face and does as she's told at school, she secretly harbors her anxiety and fear all day. At night, she comes and curls up next to me and tells me about her worries, troubles, and problems. At school, she doesn't cry, complain, or demand attention. She, like so many other "quiet" kids, gets strategically placed between two trouble makers to mitigate the naughtiness. She has only had a few weeks all year where she sat next to another little girl. <br />
<br />
<br />
She's not entirely miserable at school: she loves art class, writing, and reading. She has a couple little friends whom she enjoys as well. She's not perfect either- I know she is forgetful and doesn't always hear the teacher's instructions accurately. As my parents are teachers, I have been hesitant to be the "helicopter mom" who constantly wants my child to be happy. I have let my daughter struggle and learn; I have challenged her to become more assertive and direct. Today she came to me and said, "My teacher is tired of me asking questions." My first instinct was to immediately side with the teacher and I asked a litany of questions, "Are you following the directions? Do you listen to her instructions the first time? Are you not paying attention?" <br />
<br />
She agreed she would try to make sure her questions were valid and important; however, the more that I have analyzed the situation, I began to wonder. My daughter waits until independent work time to approach her teacher; she asks her simple questions such as "Should I use a pen or pencil?" or "Can you tell me the phonics directions again?" The teacher gets understandably peeved when her "down time" is interrupted by her one quiet kid. But my kid <i>is the shy</i> one; this is the one time she feels comfortable approaching her teacher. Maybe she is seeking encouragement, wanting to engage in one conversation, or needing reassurance. Maybe she simply longs for one, positive interaction with the teacher.<br />
<br />
My child gets anxious when the teacher reprimands other students, she feels guilt for when her classmates misbehave. She quietly does her work while other students goof off. She never needs to be acknowledged- but maybe she deserves to be once in awhile. Maybe she needs to have her simple questions answered with a smile, a polite word, and a quick conversation. I know you may be overwhelmed by the naughty, disrespectful students in your classroom. I don't envy you, but I do implore you not to ignore the good ones. They need you too.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br /><br />Jules <br />
<br />
Easy Rule #432423- Sometimes a mother has to be the protective mama bear to ensure your child gets a fair chance. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-14521317170607568072016-03-30T19:12:00.001-07:002016-04-07T12:06:50.861-07:00Power of PrayerJules here-<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzKCpXuhduu8Ttl8oGswsgK7UaBWb7hX2gK1v-gR94_TTosemehyphenhyphenvvC5Meru2stCWnEpBVs53ovo4Qbwmn4J9UTsew3_Z9rUP_-4i2VUGer5e-eO7fx0aKRZsTz3Jf3fryFwgPnDcnHA/s1600/prayer+quote.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzKCpXuhduu8Ttl8oGswsgK7UaBWb7hX2gK1v-gR94_TTosemehyphenhyphenvvC5Meru2stCWnEpBVs53ovo4Qbwmn4J9UTsew3_Z9rUP_-4i2VUGer5e-eO7fx0aKRZsTz3Jf3fryFwgPnDcnHA/s320/prayer+quote.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New life motto. An earlier version of "Just Do It"</td></tr>
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During this Holy Week, we had ample opportunities to deepen our faith. Many people chose to rekindle their relationship with God through reconciliation, Mass, and the Stations of the Cross. However, other people may find this time of year challenging to their beliefs. So many feel as if their prayers "aren't answered" or that God "isn't listening to me." Some even wonder why "God needs praise." Even if you have doubts about God's plan or if God truly <i>listens </i>to you, the power of prayer goes beyond having your pleas answered. Science<a href="http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/can-prayer-heal?page=1" target="_blank"> is <i>just catching</i> up to the idea</a> that prayer <a href="http://www.newsmax.com/Health/Headline/prayer-health-faith-medicine/2015/03/31/id/635623/" target="_blank">does heal</a> and help.... so don't discount the <a href="http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/scientists-find-one-source-of-prayers-power/" target="_blank">side effects </a>of prayer:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG9iLGx9sN4uvFQP80palJMCe6sDVgNIXbm3-oTBm2dkV0VWCZXW8zw0LMVcWNkVSni6M_xWiz_cQ4TnOOQEw6KQYcVs9BcmjScn6-5g57oZtjLxvu8bfBOV_yYeSkWNCEQhesmILR88w/s1600/st+pio+quote+2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG9iLGx9sN4uvFQP80palJMCe6sDVgNIXbm3-oTBm2dkV0VWCZXW8zw0LMVcWNkVSni6M_xWiz_cQ4TnOOQEw6KQYcVs9BcmjScn6-5g57oZtjLxvu8bfBOV_yYeSkWNCEQhesmILR88w/s320/st+pio+quote+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<ul>
<li><i>Worries Leave Your Mind</i>- As humans, we have a tendency to overthink, analyze<i>, </i>and worry about everything from the weather to illness. When you pray, it gives your mind a chance to release some of your hidden anxieties and stresses. Even simply speaking your fears and concerns aloud will help your body process and alleviate the burdens of our daily lives.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpTWxkaTR0M4O83KjTXHDP-sr565LufnQ9NV89UVIlBVUJMuIMDPc2laNj-xfyIOd6H2iFp1SYNmOQYiXDlNl8Lzz9EQLi6HhXius2KEMZJI0tgq1s_HkQNlpEIhK6vQLdwwYFOEZTbU/s1600/prayer.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpTWxkaTR0M4O83KjTXHDP-sr565LufnQ9NV89UVIlBVUJMuIMDPc2laNj-xfyIOd6H2iFp1SYNmOQYiXDlNl8Lzz9EQLi6HhXius2KEMZJI0tgq1s_HkQNlpEIhK6vQLdwwYFOEZTbU/s320/prayer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite Normal Rockwell paintings</td></tr>
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</li>
<li><i>Insight</i>- As my worries, fears, and anxieties are put into words, I often glean insight into my own inner sanctum. I can discern my true burdens amidst all the clutter in my brain. Also, my children add "intentions" at the end of our prayers and they offer a fascinating insight into their own concerns. They say anything from, "I pray that my gym class group is nice to me today" to "I hope that Miss Smith's kitty cat is up in heaven now." I learn about what consumes their minds and I can help them process how to handle certain situations- I can be God's vessel for answering their prayers! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TTWLNUU5dJwgFhi7Ymh1BtjgoZn2qWko_QDjCDlI9sVKvvz1jc2ncGisEm0CkcT-KAZnUKitpC6d3EBuYHbX-w4wtjlYV6RIvhqKXKGpEwYjdoQPcJCUSjnCpWwWWZdHZkODecmUFTY/s1600/prayer+mother+t.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TTWLNUU5dJwgFhi7Ymh1BtjgoZn2qWko_QDjCDlI9sVKvvz1jc2ncGisEm0CkcT-KAZnUKitpC6d3EBuYHbX-w4wtjlYV6RIvhqKXKGpEwYjdoQPcJCUSjnCpWwWWZdHZkODecmUFTY/s320/prayer+mother+t.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Perspective- </i>When I pray, especially with my children, I try to pray for the less fortunate: the terminally ill, lonely elderly, homeless, etc. After hearing the challenges of others, my piddly worries seem minute and petty. By putting my fears and anxieties in perspective, I can appreciate what I truly have. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGz9frRcubxN4R_qUPGTzLVdEJcPNrqCHO4gPgKWISAcCjagBP9iPzn5GzXCQsBJI6ORk1RE07XG5Ovm4T_eq4gHxlCIsNxPT-IgSYxJGOIWX63L0sKDDcfFM2IQsButi7c07Nm6UG8k8/s1600/old-woman-at-prayer.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGz9frRcubxN4R_qUPGTzLVdEJcPNrqCHO4gPgKWISAcCjagBP9iPzn5GzXCQsBJI6ORk1RE07XG5Ovm4T_eq4gHxlCIsNxPT-IgSYxJGOIWX63L0sKDDcfFM2IQsButi7c07Nm6UG8k8/s320/old-woman-at-prayer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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</li>
<li><i>Conversations with Mercy- </i>In Catholicism, God is a merciful, benevolent, and kind Father to us. He offers us unconditional love and forgiveness- our prayers can be expressions of our guilt and doubt. When you pray aloud your sins, you can realize the error of your ways as well as formulate a plan to improve yourself (this works best in the sacrament of Reconciliation).<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCNVYdq7j4wkr89CvJeGTK-KjMy_tPfTjoHWwuQRmCFYlh0YUh8y2qDESVDij8tA-v-4DUrh4ToRdgdnEQ_zuhPBWfMM4MZD9WUXRTBQLtesRQ5RSmQRaceizGA1fUAkpfcO7sBOr8og/s1600/prayer+hands.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCNVYdq7j4wkr89CvJeGTK-KjMy_tPfTjoHWwuQRmCFYlh0YUh8y2qDESVDij8tA-v-4DUrh4ToRdgdnEQ_zuhPBWfMM4MZD9WUXRTBQLtesRQ5RSmQRaceizGA1fUAkpfcO7sBOr8og/s320/prayer+hands.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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</li>
<li><i>Gratitude</i>- Some prayers are simple thanksgiving- I take a moment to appreciate that all my appliances are working, or my children are healthy, or I was able to juggle all of our activities without losing my mind this week, etc. When I pause to reflect and appreciate, I focus on the positive, and appreciate even the daily, mundane time with my kids. I revel in the simplicity and happiness! <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsBpEQGimhQ7G-XfffhXd51bhS9BC-LhqBWpebPKfYSM0EjKjtxyZXXF_Jc-4yf6_iwLb7yhUOj9QNM3BQJODxyaC-pMSWGMvR6TWSzx9VexgXBjwgWejKzEwxOXpisagfOnmGMcVfFeE/s1600/lake+opechee.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsBpEQGimhQ7G-XfffhXd51bhS9BC-LhqBWpebPKfYSM0EjKjtxyZXXF_Jc-4yf6_iwLb7yhUOj9QNM3BQJODxyaC-pMSWGMvR6TWSzx9VexgXBjwgWejKzEwxOXpisagfOnmGMcVfFeE/s320/lake+opechee.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Opechee, basically my backyard one block away-- I am so grateful for my sunsets!</td></tr>
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</li>
<li><i>Patience</i>- When you pray, you have to wait. It paces you to reflect more deeply on your fears, anxieties, sins, and appreciations. You have a moment to crystallize your inner thoughts and ideas- and if you have a well-formed conscience, it can help you make decisions. Prayer will teach you patience <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCs4WSm8snDZtWUHg9hWqInJvE7cA11dIEiZ-1CJIHbwcgDrBICCIV9DgKcHaChSYGt_7q16H_HpSdNxEql9oMSL1rCMr3N-d4YB9n9lXDs3jUM3CU3UIT5CCq_EawjkQFrw2zqnvBk8/s1600/God+prayer.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCs4WSm8snDZtWUHg9hWqInJvE7cA11dIEiZ-1CJIHbwcgDrBICCIV9DgKcHaChSYGt_7q16H_HpSdNxEql9oMSL1rCMr3N-d4YB9n9lXDs3jUM3CU3UIT5CCq_EawjkQFrw2zqnvBk8/s1600/God+prayer.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I saw this posted on Facebook the day the <i>first</i> house I bought fell through due to failed inspections. I was devastated until I saw that mantra-- and the next day I found my dream home :)</td></tr>
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</li>
</ul>
Are you praying for the right reasons? Are you just going through the motions while you bless your food or praying for an ambulance as it goes by? Even if you have doubts- YOU HAVE NOTHING TO LOSE!! Prayer can only help ease your own mind and cease your worrying. Prayer is simple, can be done anywhere at anytime, and it can bring your family closer together.<br />
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And --who knows-- just maybe Someone <i>is</i> listening to your prayers.... <br />
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<br />Easy Rule #143- Praying for the wrong reasons might end up helping you anyway.<br /><br />
Easy Rule #1231- Leave your worries to God, he stays up all night anyway. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-48104371906933227722016-03-20T06:19:00.000-07:002016-03-20T06:19:04.107-07:00Week in Review, and vomit.Jules here-<br />
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This month is flying by and today is my mother AND our dearest Em's birthday! I shall not reveal their ages :) I planned for Ems birthday days ago with cards, presents, etc.- wait, no I didn't. But I will call her later today! As for my mother, my original plan was to host a lovely dinner, make a cake, and give her a simple gift.<br />
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Of course, after I bought everything, I started feeling worse and worse until... NOROVIRUS! So I am lying here in bed typing about the birthday party, and canceling the celebration. After some glorious quality time in the bathroom last night, I finally was lying down enjoying the excruciating stomach pain, when I hear a yell from James's room--- VOMIT! So far, girls are fine, but that means they'll wait until they are walking across my new carpet.... **Cardinal rule of vomit- 5 and under WILL NEVER MAKE IT IN THE TOILET, and THEY PREFER FABRIC AND UPHOLSTERY**<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little Irish girls</td></tr>
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So as I do 5 loads of laundry and lie down in between- I shall regale you about the happenings in my household. First, we had St. Patrick's Day this week! One of the few celebrations that encourage a love for Red-Headed Irish people!! :) My children love getting dressed in green, and this year we got to see<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kathleens-Cottage-Irish-Pub-134582613226611/?pnref=story" target="_blank"> The O'Brien Clan</a> (our good friends) play at a pub! We all had a great time pretending how to Riverdance to the awesome music.<br />
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I also got the traditional gold coins and set-up a fun morning surprise! I, of course, have been thrift shopping so I had some random cheap toys to have the Leprechaun bring (side note, my kids don't really believe in Leprechauns but it's fun for them to pretend. James said, "I know Leprechauns are fairy tales, but I like to imagine that you are one!"). With the addition of a quick rainbow paper chain the effect was complete!<br />
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Breakfast was green-dyed biscuits with honey which they gobbled up!<br />
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My sister, Betsy, and her two ADORABLE Irish kiddos, came up to celebrate St. Patrick's with us at the pub, and little Charlie was a fantastic dancer!<br />
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We also have been loving the taste-of-Spring weather we have been having, though snow is expected tonight... The children seriously frolicked in our backyard and were giddy to reveal that we had our first crocuses for the year! We also have been exploring every playground in the vicinity and playing tag (which I am seriously out of "tag shape".... winded is an understatement!).<br />
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Though the weather is warm, I have a cursed syndrome called: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raynaud's_phenomenon" target="_blank">Raynaud's Phenomenon.</a> It basically makes my hands go into survival mode against frigid weather. I usually wear gloves all winter and always in the grocery store. This is what happens when I forget my gloves when I am shopping- and yes, it is painful to have your fingers lose the blood to them. They become painfully numb and tingly... ouch! Come on HOT summer- I am ready!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wasn't even in the frozen section when this happened. Ouch.</td></tr>
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Finally, the inside-fort always SOUNDS like a good plan until clean-up time comes, and the children suddenly can't remember how to put couch cushions back and they are too weak to move small chairs. Huh. Outside play time is coming at a perfect time...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My lovely destroyed living room at 8 PM. Ugh.</td></tr>
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So that is a a glimpse into my week- lots of fun until we have been destroyed by this virus. Ugh. Looks like we are missing Palm Sunday Mass and watching <i>a lot</i> of TV today. Not my original plan of Maple Sugaring, birthday partying, and prepping for the week... :( Boo.<br />
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Easy Rule #34234- You can never have too many towels and blankets when kids have stomach illnesses. Don't throw them away.<br />
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Easy Rule #42342- Don't get cocky- the second you even <i>think</i> you've survived the winter without the Norovirus- you get it, and you get snow the next day just to rub it in.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-56890961393574103172016-03-04T19:07:00.002-08:002016-03-05T09:55:58.641-08:00Admiration InspirationJules here-<br />
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For Christmas, Betsy got us a<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Family-Dinner-Questions/dp/B005GXZONE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456448437&sr=8-1&keywords=dinner+time+questions" target="_blank"> dinner time con</a>versation game in which we ask each other questions every night. It was quite entertaining and the children <i>loved</i> them (though some of the questions were WAY over James & Lissie's heads). One of the questions we asked was, "Name one trait you would like to have from each person at the table." The question helped us appreciate specific qualities that we admire in each of us- the kids were beaming with pride as they heard what made them special and unique.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJJ4ziYMx4I2QpmFfsV6eLr_YlfUUdJz-jH02JxoTdL0ShfEGorwne_40iIGj8KbWIgBVje2nC2xHjPKBtIsZaTyBA8ai07TbQKJrsHiwnvlcGNOgSDAKBXz_VLX9bnUguQtNBpXZ0ak/s1600/Babysitting+cousins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJJ4ziYMx4I2QpmFfsV6eLr_YlfUUdJz-jH02JxoTdL0ShfEGorwne_40iIGj8KbWIgBVje2nC2xHjPKBtIsZaTyBA8ai07TbQKJrsHiwnvlcGNOgSDAKBXz_VLX9bnUguQtNBpXZ0ak/s320/Babysitting+cousins.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner time conversation with kiddos</td></tr>
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Everyone likes to feel appreciated, and no matter how selfless you are- being recognized can motivate and inspire you to continue along an arduous path. Sometimes within our busy lives, we can forget to truly recognize the qualities and traits in family and friends that we admire. Plus, when we recognize the attributes that we value in others- maybe we can emulate them in our own life. I have so many people in my life who I admire, and tonight I will recognize a few who have traits <i>I wish</i> I had....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun Mail!!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">My Aunt Pug & Aunt Shirley-</span> Every holiday, every birthday, every anniversary- you are guaranteed to get a card in the mail from them. Not only that- it will arrive <i>on your special day</i>. They have a magical system for ensuring all of their nieces, nephews, cousins, friends- feel loved and celebrated. I love that my children are guaranteed to get something in the mail- because <i>my sisters</i> aren't exactly going to remember to send them anything (nor do I make the effort to remember <i>my</i> nephews and nieces either... and we have an understanding to expect nothing.... it's quite brilliant really...)<br />
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Trait I admire: Thoughtfulness<br />
How I will aspire: I have a goal of sending at least one heartfelt letter a month to family, friends, acquaintances, whomever. These letters will remind the person that they are valued and celebrated!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3iEN1mhaWcspkfHYjCc_Ga7SUIORptcz2J3_4hGG8nYkADEvwu247wkZBgL3uJoaaJ7E4IC8n0Zvrpy5pJEq2onWpRoFzcCVkWYNhjSla6Nmt_YGrQ3JnsGG2uRLg4dlpQVIkBpxiVds/s1600/cleaning+car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3iEN1mhaWcspkfHYjCc_Ga7SUIORptcz2J3_4hGG8nYkADEvwu247wkZBgL3uJoaaJ7E4IC8n0Zvrpy5pJEq2onWpRoFzcCVkWYNhjSla6Nmt_YGrQ3JnsGG2uRLg4dlpQVIkBpxiVds/s1600/cleaning+car.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah the car vacuum...</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">My former neighbor Don</span>- O.k. - he might be a <i>little obsessive</i> with cleaning and organizing- but he keeps his home and car immaculate. He makes sure his car is vacuumed, washed, and cleaned out every week. Don & Lisa both make sure their home is always sparkling clean, and they divide the chores to make quick work of it. Do I think I could be exactly like them? Heck no- but I could <i>try</i> to make more of an effort.<br />
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Trait I admire: Cleanliness. <br />
How I will aspire: I know I can't do what Don does, but I will <i>try</i> to maintain my car organization. My excuses include: working out of my car, traveling often, and having three kids- but the rubble needs to be cleaned out at least once a week.<br />
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<span style="color: red;">Intellectual Converts:</span> I have several friends (Evangelos, Robinsons for example) who have converted to Catholicism through reading, exploration of the faith, and historical research. I am amazed at their dedication to learn about my faith and their true understanding of the teachings. I choose to read Hunger Games and Harry Potter and they choose to read St. Augustine's work or St. Thomas More. Hmmmm....<br />
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Trait I admire: Intellectual curiosity.<br />
How I will aspire: I am trying to tackle a few non-fiction religious study books. It's tortuous for my fiction-brain, but I do want to challenge my faith, my knowledge, and my apologetics.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, Betsy just whipped up this little Christmas display... Hmph.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">My little sis, Betsy</span>: Betsy can pick out a painting, mirror, or wall hanging that I would <i>scoff</i> at in the store- and yet, she places it on her wall and her home looks like something from<i> </i>an HGTV show. She has an "eye" for fashion, design, and style- I, conversely, do not. I have often quipped that I could not pick out a stylish purse if my life depending on it- I am not exaggerating. I look at the $500 Coach purses and think how much I would <i>not</i> want a purse with letters all over it.... I prefer the $10 Payless ones.... But Betsy can even get items from Marshall's or Lowes and create a coordinated room that truly could be in a magazine. She truly can create beauty and peace in a home!<br />
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Trait I admire: The Artistic Eye.<br />
Being able to see how elements of a room or outfit can mesh to create something beautiful would be amazing. I love thrift shopping- imagine if I could "flip" an item or "upcycle" some old furniture! Awesome. <br />
How I will aspire: I am going to try to follow and trust Betsy's advice more. I also will try to look at more magazines, Pinterest, etc. to try to develop my own sense of style.<br />
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O.k. there are <i>dozens</i> of more people I admire, and I plan on either writing them letters or doing another post about them (my parents, Ems, my bro, etc.) but I have been writing this post for days. I have been falling asleep early and I can't write any more.... <br />
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Easy Rule #18902- Take a moment to admire qualities in your friends and family. It will humble you and make you appreciate each friendship.<br />
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Easy Rule #8790- You can always aspire to be better! Or just write about your aspirations instead....<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-15369148162338431602016-02-17T19:05:00.000-08:002016-02-17T19:05:32.081-08:00Feeling the LoveJules here-<br />
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Of course, we haven't had a PARTY since the<a href="http://www.easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/12/cinderella-party.html" target="_blank"> Cinderella </a>one in November, so Grace was itching to party plan and pinterest. Starting in early January, we planned a fantastic Valentine's day bash for a group of friends, and to make it extra special- I insisted parents drop off their children so they could have a "couple" date. Luckily, two of my guests were a 16 year old and an 11 year old girl- who were more helpful than the average under 5 year set we normally host...<br />
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As we started planning this early, I had plenty of time to check out a few thrift shops for Valentine's items-- I hit the jack pot!! Several local St. Vincent de Paul Stores and Salvation Armies had little Valentine's displays- that I pretty much destroyed. I got a vinyl tablecloth with hearts (brand new!) for $1, 20 sheets of Valentine's Day stickers for $1, a glass heart shaped platter for $0.50, 2 clear plastic bowls for chips for $0.10 each, pink streamers for $0.50, Valentine's paper napkin packs for $0.25 each (I bought 3), and even brand new doily packs for $0.25 each, 3 colors! Whew! It was a better savings than the Dollar Store- though I did get full sized plates and a disposable table cloth. <br />
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After decor, we planned a heart and love themed menu. Well, sort of. Grace really wanted to have names like, "Meatballs from the heart", etc.... but we mostly just made things heart-shaped. Earlier in the day, I prepped 10 pizza dough hearts- I cooked them for about 10 minutes after shaping them so the kids could make-their-own pizzas that night.<br />
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We had fruit, veggies & dip, and cheese and crackers as appetizers. Plus of course, we had cupcakes and candy too...<br />
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As for activities, we set up a Valentine's card making station (I used the disposable table cloth for glue-protection on the table). We had stickers, doilies, construction paper, cut-outs, foamtastic, etc. <br />
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We made the mini-pizzas, then we cleared off the craft-table to make room for cookie decorating. The cookies were the "favors" and I had little Valentine's bags to take them home in. I made <i>plenty</i> so kids could make several to give to family at home. <br />
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I made a mix list of "Love" songs from the 50s to the 80s and it was fun to sing along to some of the classics! Finally, the older girls lead the kids in a hilarious game of<a href="http://www.amazon.com/HedBanz-Game-Edition-may-vary/dp/B003AIM52A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1455764532&sr=8-1&keywords=head+banz" target="_blank"> Head Banz </a>(highly recommended for children!) until the parents came for pick up! It was a fantastic night of food, celebration, and friends!<br />
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Easy Rule #34234- Sometimes helping out friends with babysitting isn't really work- Just fun for the kids! Plus you SUGAR them up, and SEND them home :)<br />
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Easy Rule #41324- A holiday about chocolate, love, and crafting- hmm... not much I don't like!<br />
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<span style="color: red;">Side note:</span></div>
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<span style="color: red;">Grace overheard me singing the song, "All you need is love" by the Beatles and she asked, "What does that mean?"<br /><br />I answered, "Well, they are just saying that all you need in life is to love someone."<br /><br />Grace replied with a snort, "Well, Love isn't going to buy you a car...."<br /><br />That's my little practical capitalist- guess we missed some of the message of Valentine's Day!! :)</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-33814508537164903502016-01-24T18:25:00.002-08:002016-01-24T18:25:58.370-08:00Decoding the LingoJules here-<br />
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I have read some <a href="http://www.macleans.ca/society/the-collapse-of-parenting-why-its-time-for-parents-to-grow-up/" target="_blank"><i>very </i>interesting articles </a>recently on parenting and child development lately-- many of them discuss the fact that parents are now "scared" to discipline their children. Parents are allowing kids free-reign, and the world is seeing the results. My kids are normal kids- I often have to yell at them, put them in time out, or even swat their tushies on occasion. <i>However</i>, my kids do know how to mind, listen, and obey me- especially when <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2013/10/community-kids-part-1.html" target="_blank">we are in a public setting</a>. They know that punishment will await them if they are belligerent, wild, or out-of-control.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmR8caSfHEECfIXTvwBa4cTy9VntV-Hnd4diNpIGP5ifz94EuoyiawfrF-SayLZSXmR6Hz2pUIqxAnQPO5_rYiTjS8-QfUh1vuPQpui_lUu63NnqsQ4zAjgFr1SiqYeiJp0iDFcFnhzE/s1600/James%2527.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmR8caSfHEECfIXTvwBa4cTy9VntV-Hnd4diNpIGP5ifz94EuoyiawfrF-SayLZSXmR6Hz2pUIqxAnQPO5_rYiTjS8-QfUh1vuPQpui_lUu63NnqsQ4zAjgFr1SiqYeiJp0iDFcFnhzE/s320/James%2527.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When James finds my phone...</td></tr>
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To me- that's normal parenting. Normal "training my kids" to behave. But I <i>must</i> be in the minority now because I constantly have people complimenting me on my kids behavior- which I deem as perfectly normal. My kids act exactly as I acted as a child. They get into trouble, but they know <i>how</i> to behave.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKHyx8-3fd1NBQ6aL1tmzmVizEV9Qvpl8Pv7Buf_9qqphzaDcV6PCQeDTWyJukeGMaWPiZYp_t8Ulla-PCfDKB6VFcOtFHUyMzfliJtESOnlvcoXPclR3_tKH0ytQ97R448ZhR2nc500/s1600/Couch+craziness.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKHyx8-3fd1NBQ6aL1tmzmVizEV9Qvpl8Pv7Buf_9qqphzaDcV6PCQeDTWyJukeGMaWPiZYp_t8Ulla-PCfDKB6VFcOtFHUyMzfliJtESOnlvcoXPclR3_tKH0ytQ97R448ZhR2nc500/s320/Couch+craziness.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The children jumping on the couch- I allow a bit of wildness in the winter time just to get out extra energy!</td></tr>
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I have spoken about <a href="http://www.easyrules123.blogspot.com/search/label/behavior" target="_blank">behavior in countless posts</a>- and as a parent I know we constantly have to adjust, grow, and learn with each child. I am always looking for more loving, efficient, and effective parenting strategies. I have friends who have challenging children who constantly strive to learn and figure out better ways to train their child. Some children need continual training and discipline due to their more resistant personalities. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSccz0MJcusSsy-qEp_IYrnWR3pNvM4wu4-K5yoUpC7zK1hqncayJDOsqKmnmThsn7pD1W5J4lY1rkx8FoE08lRnEzoZNIUT3mdApU2aJJDdKhXLA-oCxdLx-Q4SqZL9GH3_9b8hiTfk/s1600/chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSccz0MJcusSsy-qEp_IYrnWR3pNvM4wu4-K5yoUpC7zK1hqncayJDOsqKmnmThsn7pD1W5J4lY1rkx8FoE08lRnEzoZNIUT3mdApU2aJJDdKhXLA-oCxdLx-Q4SqZL9GH3_9b8hiTfk/s320/chair.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A time out chair.... serious stuff.</td></tr>
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In this post I am<b> NOT talking about</b> the following:<br />
<ul>
<li> Children with a disability who truly have difficulty with following social constraints. </li>
<li> We've all had the times at the grocery store with the screaming kid amidst many eye rolls and rude comments. I am not talking about those rare, embarrassing moments when people drop a few snide remarks. </li>
<li>Children under the age of 2- sometimes they are QUITE unpredictable. However, one should keep them at arms-length consistently. </li>
<li>I am not talking about the apologetic parents who understand the burden of an unruly child, who sheepishly herd their children out of public areas. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On the contrary, I hear some acquaintances talk about discipline, but
their children's behavior does NOT seem to reflect their supposed
efforts. Yet, many of the parents seem oblivious that their child is
even a problem! I am talking about when people consistently use the same terminology (friends, doctors, teachers, strangers, neighbors, grandparents, etc.) when addressing your child. Since it is now faux pas to have other people discipline
your children (unlike back in the good ol' days), one has to read
between the lines when people address your children.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPDxSvGLu2v8OqQX4PrY0nU4nrndL7Pxs5fRC_-Nd4jXVH4Tsh4wyCS3oi7Vp_ded7cHmt8yRQ0g1crSitNHNJ63YKAL4oeEjjwNKgBPXaoAvzPGKbUGDy4qLO80sxFVijC6XGLycKEo/s1600/child+labor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPDxSvGLu2v8OqQX4PrY0nU4nrndL7Pxs5fRC_-Nd4jXVH4Tsh4wyCS3oi7Vp_ded7cHmt8yRQ0g1crSitNHNJ63YKAL4oeEjjwNKgBPXaoAvzPGKbUGDy4qLO80sxFVijC6XGLycKEo/s320/child+labor.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good 'Ol Days- Children working in factories....</td></tr>
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<i>"Well, isn't he (or she) a little bundle of energy!" </i>Translation: Your child needs to be a little less-wild in this setting. Your child is being distracting to other people in the area with the rambunctiousness. **<b>Note:</b> At a park, hiking a mountain, playground, etc. this could be a compliment! In the correct setting, <br />
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<i>"He (or she) certainly has a mind of his own!" </i>Translation: Your child isn't respecting you. Your child should be more obedient to your instructions.<br />
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<i>"He's certainly a stubborn one!"</i> Translation: Your child REALLY needs to be taught to respect you more. Your discipline is probably not working.<br />
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<i>"Maybe your child needs a break."</i> Translation: We all need a break. I heard a librarian say this to a mom of a wild 4 year old during a story time and the mom said, "No, he's fine thanks!". Take a hint, your kid is being WAY too disruptive for everyone else. <br />
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<i>"Do you think he/she needs some help?" </i>Translation: Your child is doing something he/she shouldn't be doing. Don't let him/her climb on the shelf or take out all the toys, etc.... some mothers are more worry-warts than I am and will use this phrase at a playground when they think my child is in danger- personally, I like my kids to learn "the hard" way sometimes... BUT, if I hear this in an indoor, public setting, usually an adult is trying to kindly tell me to get my kid.<br />
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I have mentioned before that many p<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/10/teaching-respect.html" target="_blank">eople don't recognize the influence of peers and media</a> on their children's behavior. They only feed their children organic food, use non-toxic cleaners, but then allow them to watch PG-13 movies and teenage-television when they are under 7 years old... Protect their minds as much as their bodies!!<br />
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Final thoughts- it does take a village to raise a child. Family, friends and teachers can offer great insight into discipline- don't be too prideful. Accept advice, suggestions, and help as needed- you might be surprised how much easier your life will become. Here's a quote from one of my favorite child psychologists, Dr. Ray Guarendi, "Discipline without love is harsh. But love without discipline, that's child abuse." Try to balance both!<br />
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Easy Rule #343234- Even if you aren't a perfect parent, nowadays your kids can look like rock stars compared to the parents <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2598889/Would-let-children-stay-late-cut-wires-swear-Meet-woman-never-says-no-kids.html" target="_blank">who don't ever say no to their children....</a><br />
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Easy Rule #53234- Set the expectations high for your children. Demand respect. Life will only get easier and more fun for all of you!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-82848351093462139042016-01-18T18:12:00.001-08:002016-01-18T18:13:00.440-08:00Shielding from Stress<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnredM2-8-9fAfpHFsc5SwThrU66PPiLLEUVnniqAg8z6_idpyoZGCrbZKgeT4aGo3fbRmH0bPQzVd0X6JAngAqtwCneClOIrC36_1dOdaYfqDugjVd5y5FiPRXSRTNfk0PvXuwoUlqc/s1600/IMG_20160117_121806_613.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnredM2-8-9fAfpHFsc5SwThrU66PPiLLEUVnniqAg8z6_idpyoZGCrbZKgeT4aGo3fbRmH0bPQzVd0X6JAngAqtwCneClOIrC36_1dOdaYfqDugjVd5y5FiPRXSRTNfk0PvXuwoUlqc/s320/IMG_20160117_121806_613.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No reason for this picture, just hilarious.</td></tr>
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Jules here-<br />
<br />
For some reason, this past week has tested my patience, strength, and endurance. From getting back into the daily grind of school to handling work, I have been a bit over-stretched. Instead of waiting to react to the stressors, I decided to start facing them a little differently. First- I had to address the moments when my resolve crumbles and I start to freak out<b>- </b>you must<b> </b>know what pushes your buttons!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0F-BxNMsqXecGsYuoy2VqHjWBugTRBzKcb3bGDS9tpN9Dv9SKupi4aKE9pqRRfnVnubSe5Fb3kOxzKLjRW3DZTNIxTWqrP72xnwUkM4TDuvXu4FZcELuQeWJZlDeJWY6aTdiOLBevuc8/s1600/IMG_20160116_080758_682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0F-BxNMsqXecGsYuoy2VqHjWBugTRBzKcb3bGDS9tpN9Dv9SKupi4aKE9pqRRfnVnubSe5Fb3kOxzKLjRW3DZTNIxTWqrP72xnwUkM4TDuvXu4FZcELuQeWJZlDeJWY6aTdiOLBevuc8/s320/IMG_20160116_080758_682.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pancake breakfast silliness</td></tr>
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<b>Being crunched for time in the morning-</b> My children are energetic, lively, happy kids- <i>except</i> when they are getting ready for school in the morning. To get them dressed, fed, and organized for school takes negotiations, threats, and bribery.... My coping has been generally freaking out on the kids as we scramble to get to school in time....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note: No actual morning pictures are taken due to already extreme lateness</td></tr>
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New Preventative Solutions:<br />
<ul>
<li><i>More nighttime prep</i>: I already pack lunches at night, but now I am double-checking snow gear, homework pages, documents I need to drop off, etc.</li>
<li><i>Get up earlier:</i> Earlier in the year, I was getting up well before the kids to get breakfast, but lately (well since the days have gotten so short), I have been waking up only minutes before the kids... The days when I give myself more time to ready myself, go MUCH better.</li>
<li><i>Earlier bed time for kiddos</i> Part of the reason I had been sleeping in, was that the kids were staying up later. All moms need a little "me" time at night, and I stayed up later to accommodate. Now, I am trying to get them to bed before 8 PM so I have some time to unwind.</li>
</ul>
<b>Letting little things make me lose my cool-</b> Some things can just drive you crazy. They can be little, seemingly harmless things, but they seem to push the exact right button. I can't <i>stand</i> putting gloves on children- seriously-- why can't they stick out their freakin' little thumbs in the thumb hole?!?! I also hate getting "bopped" on the head on purpose or by accident. I hate when my kids lose something five minutes before we leave the house (shoes, coat, etc.). So what can you do for these little annoyances that can <i>really</i> escalate...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfqbMM6jp5aB_QWCMrrxzgvRKl71cwND15W04qsxor6jUI_2TVHRcofZ8VztA02bsjV08d9wPjQ-c8kf2ygGiozDczhkN0_TLKrckn1RpuQRMHsLHDXfbQFwQ_hwZWULhmQDBBgqn886M/s1600/mittens.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfqbMM6jp5aB_QWCMrrxzgvRKl71cwND15W04qsxor6jUI_2TVHRcofZ8VztA02bsjV08d9wPjQ-c8kf2ygGiozDczhkN0_TLKrckn1RpuQRMHsLHDXfbQFwQ_hwZWULhmQDBBgqn886M/s1600/mittens.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah.. the glove, so simple in design, yet unmanageable for under 6 year olds.....</td></tr>
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New Preventative Solutions:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i>Deep breathing</i>- Taking a moment to count to ten before I react DOES help. Saying a prayer in that time, helps even more.</li>
<li><i>Letting natural consequences happen-</i> What happens when you can't find a glove for your kid before school? They miss recess. What happens when they can't find their homework five minutes before you leave? They get a "missed" homework. It's hard for a mom to accept, but it'll teach them a lesson.</li>
<li><i>Give yourself time- </i>Getting three kids dressed in snow gear takes time, making sure I allow myself the time to get it done alleviates <i>some</i> of the "I hate putting on gloves" angst...</li>
</ul>
<b>Over-scheduling AND under-scheduling problems- </b>I do function at a higher level of stress than most people- I like to be busy as I get more accomplished- however, sometimes I push the limit and say "Yes" too often. Especially when I say "yes" to things I <i>really</i> don't want to do.... I sometimes dread doing something that I put it off until I stress last minute.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HwiZUhXzWHFDNn7sEAil8HNpQTOVWjNfDXcDCo2mvr1zYtCqLODz2a0yF-1695-Mb16VcRDHNTn-sAXx9tYAGrgj10HGvJyTRfQ85ziKD1ZQ26uTOk2k3mOv8mVOTe9cYhvmjU8wKLs/s1600/game+night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HwiZUhXzWHFDNn7sEAil8HNpQTOVWjNfDXcDCo2mvr1zYtCqLODz2a0yF-1695-Mb16VcRDHNTn-sAXx9tYAGrgj10HGvJyTRfQ85ziKD1ZQ26uTOk2k3mOv8mVOTe9cYhvmjU8wKLs/s320/game+night.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spontaneous Game night!</td></tr>
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New Preventative Solutions:<br />
<ul>
<li><i>Learning to say "No" without an explanation-</i> When I don't want to do a play date, I am just going to say "No thanks." I don't have to go into a litany of excuses. Birthday party? No thanks! I don't feel like standing around talking to parents and buying expensive gifts for a kid I barely know.... </li>
<li><i>Saying "yes" to the right things.</i> I had my house blessed last Thursday! I had to clean every room from top to bottom, but it was WORTH it. Not only is my house more spiritually sound, I had a more relaxing weekend as my major chores were done!! Also, the playdate-turned blessing- turned into fun game night with friends!! Yes I ended up with 8 children and 7 adults for dinner, but I haven't had so much fun in awhile.</li>
<li><i>Checking my calendar, twice</i>- Sometimes I say "yes" too soon, or I don't look at the whole picture of the week. Oops. Making sure I triple check my calendar will help alleviate embarrassing, "I actually <i>can't</i> come now..." calls.</li>
</ul>
Hopefully my new preventative strategies to parenting peril will pay off!!<br />
<br />
Easy Rule #23213- Stop and reevaluate why you are so stressed. Figuring out solutions ahead of time can help calm your whole family.<br />
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Easy Rule #35234- When winter gets you down, start baking. It warms the house as well as insulates the body :)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-79507167119947703682016-01-07T19:07:00.000-08:002016-01-07T19:07:33.626-08:00Ode To SistersJules here-<br />
<br />
When I first delivered my second child, the gender had been a surprise. After I saw she was a beautiful (well, kind of funny-looking), healthy little girl- I was thrilled. Most people (rudely) asked, "Oh, did you want a boy?" And in reality- I didn't!! I was so happy that Grace would have a SISTER!!! Brothers are great (so no offense Greg) <i>but</i> sisters are amazing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc_VsNxDyUWScKkMYql-35WcK6i97JvfVj4BW4kaEap9VRIDvB2DT_gmek6TLFmQmBOzs2rvL0noJwNav6LfO8xdGD-dvR-x9VCCOWg52BwsBVDZj99p-YXXFRvrhO9Cu-kwT381bpuM/s1600/Ice_cream_girls.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlc_VsNxDyUWScKkMYql-35WcK6i97JvfVj4BW4kaEap9VRIDvB2DT_gmek6TLFmQmBOzs2rvL0noJwNav6LfO8xdGD-dvR-x9VCCOWg52BwsBVDZj99p-YXXFRvrhO9Cu-kwT381bpuM/s320/Ice_cream_girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My lovely ladies</td></tr>
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Here's the Top Ten Things that I <i>love</i> about having sisters:<br />
<br />
10. <b>They are truly honest with you.</b> Does this make me look fat? Yes. Am I overreacting? No. Etc. Etc. They will always be honest (sometimes brutally so) but you know that you can trust their advice. I also know I can be honest with them- it's refreshing to be able to speak without guise or tact.<br />
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9. <b>They get you the best presents. S</b>ince we talk all the time- sisters know what we need, want, or secretly desire- and our presents are usually right on target. From tiny kitchen gadgets to hand me down clothing- I love my sister's good taste! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNJxCATe0EuShDJarsrxVSurDg0FwgiI7kV9D_PkZRMRqD4bMtrfmuZXI0akXwxPrJHcOBLXXAecYrnNXTivOP9phzAYN4xuni4NvrE923o0y0HirOB44QMjtde1YleuLgyr37g9JeCc/s1600/big+boggle+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNJxCATe0EuShDJarsrxVSurDg0FwgiI7kV9D_PkZRMRqD4bMtrfmuZXI0akXwxPrJHcOBLXXAecYrnNXTivOP9phzAYN4xuni4NvrE923o0y0HirOB44QMjtde1YleuLgyr37g9JeCc/s320/big+boggle+gift.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family favorite purchase :)</td></tr>
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<b></b><br />
8. <b>They will listen to your boring stories (not that I have any)</b>. Who cares what I made my kids for dinner every night this week? Who cares about the great deal I got on cereal yesterday? My sisters do! Or at least they <i>seem</i> to! I love having someone I can always talk about the mundane with. <br />
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7.<b> They are truly loyal. </b>Sisters will mock to your face but defend you to anyone who tries to do the same. No matter bad decisions from fashion to life choices- they will stand by you.<br />
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6. <b>There may be spats- but we survive</b>. Do we always agree with each other? No. Sometimes we can get in arguments, disagreements, and even fights, but we somehow always manage to forgive and move on. We are not exactly alike and our differences could alienate us, but instead we try to respect each other and not be too sensitive.<br />
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5.<b> Escapism as mothers</b>. Moms, in particular Stay-at-home-Moms, need breaks from some of the monotony of daily life. Having sisters to call helps break up the day with some grown up conversations, jokes, and encouragement. <br />
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4. <b>My childhood was incredible. </b>I always had someone to play with- from Ems and I's "Daring Dancing Duo" to Betsy and I's amazing imagination play- I was never bored. I was watching my girls sled in the backyard last week, and their laughter and giddiness as they careened into a bush reminded me so much of snow-play with my sisters!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jules and Ems circa 1980</td></tr>
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3. <b>You can always ask them for favors.</b> Need someone to watch your kids while you work? Call your sister! Need someone to help cook and clean for a party? Call your sister! Moving help, painting, laundry- whatever- no task is too menial or annoying to burden a sister with. <br />
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2. <b>Same sense of humor.</b> My sisters and I are <i>hilarious</i> together- our conversations on the phone or text messaging could be on the radio-- well, at least WE would find them funny.... Being raised by the same parents with the same media influences, we have very similar 'funny bones' and often find each other cracking up hysterically. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Never trust a blogging sister with a camera</td></tr>
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1. <b>They just get it.</b> As they know me very well, my sisters give the best advice, nagging, and support to me. They know when to encourage me to make a change and to support me even when I am not ready. I can't wait to see how Felicity and Grace's sisterhood develops over the years!<br />
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Easy Rule #34234- When you can't afford to buy the gifts your sisters REALLY deserve for Christmas- write a blog post about them instead.<br />
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Easy Rule #3432- Never trust an older sister who choreographs dance moves that require standing on shoulders- Thanks Ems, my head will never be the same.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-68296632238085074042015-12-31T19:52:00.002-08:002015-12-31T19:52:54.707-08:00Snow Day with Friend- Picture it!Jules here-<br />
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As I am resolving to post a bit more, and I have a new laptop :) - no more excuses! This is the first Christmas since I moved to New Hampshire eleven years ago that <i>wasn't</i> white. I was quite thrilled with the mild fall; however, our ski mountains and tourism industry has suffered. Tuesday, the "true" winter has begun with our first 5-6 inches of snow. The children gleefully watched as the lawn (and driveway...) filled with fluffy white snow. <br />
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We had a sleepover guest- Grace's best friend- for TWO nights due to snowy weather! She got to partake in our annual tradition of snowman pancakes. I simply make 3 different sized pancakes and give them a variety of toppings to make their own snowman. James's turned out a bit like a Picasso snowman, but it still tasted delicious.<br />
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Later in the day, I suited up to snow blow and snow shovel my driveway-- AHHH! It was quite cold, and I am not in snow-shoveling-shape. My sore muscles ache today, but I did a thorough enough job to get my minivan out!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the "Before" picture... before it felt as if the wind had frozen off my face.</td></tr>
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The children wanted to go outside too- and after 25 minutes of suiting them up, they lasted only 15 minutes outside in the 17 degree day....<br />
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I was <i>so</i> cold after my outdoor endeavors, that I had to bake a ton when I got back inside. I made the classic <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/93290/easy-pumpkin-muffins/" target="_blank">easiest pumpkin muffins </a>and an apple pie muffin to help warm my house.<br />
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For dinner, I made some quick homemade pizza using the<a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/pizza-crust/dfd30165-0b22-47aa-b192-268be25e138d" target="_blank"> Betty Crocker dough recipe </a>and the kids were able to add the toppings. Yummy and fun!<br />
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We were blessed with a plethora of board games for Christmas, including my favorite Bananagrams! Grace and Sophie played for hours; though they needed some "Is this a real word?" help they did great! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOFjvX6pkLoZAR0KGCdDnNC8FfJOuHVFwA9GQJSyINa_1yu-SgZtc48E6Fb1rwzHINMcl9xOFQbDkMrvuBXyt_wDeFwQG60m9Y2ShqYd5wwHVWhsxotrEyOxcU6dxw6_YMWULSuek1xTc/s1600/IMG_20151228_184708_497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOFjvX6pkLoZAR0KGCdDnNC8FfJOuHVFwA9GQJSyINa_1yu-SgZtc48E6Fb1rwzHINMcl9xOFQbDkMrvuBXyt_wDeFwQG60m9Y2ShqYd5wwHVWhsxotrEyOxcU6dxw6_YMWULSuek1xTc/s320/IMG_20151228_184708_497.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a challenge to keep the little ones from knocking the puzzles...</td></tr>
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We also could not have a sleepover-snow day without a movie night! We watched the classic <i>Balto</i> which is a snowy tale about sled-dogs. Quite entertaining and also safe for all ages- it's hard to find a movie to entertain all kiddos.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPiS4Qxck-SnBUhgDNW5op3dGirM07A7UFVRhak0Ww4iKL90hnPctuEbCtPtfHwWUbvpGugCHt5ui5B35kMRebomNaqcPpVQoVJUlOEFsp1XtAW2xDYAHB5y1MBqU3mKyX5B0LfYfvTY/s1600/IMG_20151228_194226_880.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPiS4Qxck-SnBUhgDNW5op3dGirM07A7UFVRhak0Ww4iKL90hnPctuEbCtPtfHwWUbvpGugCHt5ui5B35kMRebomNaqcPpVQoVJUlOEFsp1XtAW2xDYAHB5y1MBqU3mKyX5B0LfYfvTY/s320/IMG_20151228_194226_880.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cozy kiddos watching a film</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Having four kids on a snow day made it TONS of fun! We loved having a "best friend" who experienced sledding, pancakes, games, toys, and movies with us- thanks for loaning her to us Chrissy!<br />
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Side note- Yes, I am blogging on New Year's Eve-I lead a crazy wild life here!!! Hope everyone has a blessed, safe, healthy, and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!<br />
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Easy Rule #41321- Even though snow can be a bit daunting for a homeowner- it can be lovely to experience through the eyes of the children.<br />
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Easy Rule #4324- You can always take a hot shower and bake muffins when you're recovering from the cold.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXOCwUutUcJyJNpkU8eldJniKBtIbOb22ty7ksYXDTkuZS63Py_py94mwiabexcOw0owm-oB0XYXqfhg8Wa3sbbN1BVzs3AMBU6GHnyHCjrG02fiWWrLo-REb2qjx5Fk8aDCnMSO8ehc/s1600/IMG_20151231_100352_503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXOCwUutUcJyJNpkU8eldJniKBtIbOb22ty7ksYXDTkuZS63Py_py94mwiabexcOw0owm-oB0XYXqfhg8Wa3sbbN1BVzs3AMBU6GHnyHCjrG02fiWWrLo-REb2qjx5Fk8aDCnMSO8ehc/s320/IMG_20151231_100352_503.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bonus picture- Took this from my car window on my way to work- seriously-- New Hampshire is gorgeous!!</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-37576078531372577582015-12-26T05:47:00.001-08:002015-12-26T05:47:06.197-08:00Top Ten Reasons I SlackedJules here-<br />
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I did it again. I did <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-letter-to-myself.html" target="_blank">NOT heed my letter to myself from two years ago</a> and once again baked, crafted, gifted, traveled, etc. all in December- and I even <i>added</i> a few things to the list. But, as Christmas day is winding down... I have no regrets (well, except that I didn't blog....). So here are the Top Ten Reasons I Slacked Off this Month:<br />
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#10- <b>Dated Technology.</b> One of the things I am saving for is a new laptop. My current one is 6+ years old, which is quite "dated" by today's standards. Unfortunately, I have to keep saving my posts as my computer often freezes when I have multiple-tabs open or I attempt to upload a picture. I can't stand typing on my kindle or smartphone, I prefer a keyboard. Here's the one I am saving for:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDfXeFfAl_W90jC02pN4pqbcm_yhr1bAIyFrQjkL0GqR74vMppM5bAN2nBY0M2pcVlpLkfjJLEJEv_uP137CVkelGE00uXUkqjzWFUYWaqTpGuxyFuVpkNvyv4cJ3oGujfBCOTJ5spIus/s1600/computer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDfXeFfAl_W90jC02pN4pqbcm_yhr1bAIyFrQjkL0GqR74vMppM5bAN2nBY0M2pcVlpLkfjJLEJEv_uP137CVkelGE00uXUkqjzWFUYWaqTpGuxyFuVpkNvyv4cJ3oGujfBCOTJ5spIus/s320/computer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/HP-15-d027cl-Touchscreen-Laptop-i3-3110M/dp/B00JBIQHZE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451095856&sr=8-1&keywords=HP+-+15.6%22+Touch-Screen+Laptop+-+Intel+Core+i3+-+6GB+Memory+-+1TB+Hard+Drive+-+Black+-+Larger+Front+HP+-+15.6%22+Touch-Screen+Laptop+-+Intel+Core+i3+-+6GB+Memory+-+1TB+Hard+Drive+-+Black" target="_blank">Oooh... so fas</a>t.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: right;">
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#9- <b>Healthcare at the Holidays</b>- Similar to shopping malls, hospitals fill up quickly this time of year. And since I work in home care, the hospitals try to send all the patients home before Christmas. We become <i>very</i> busy around the holidays... So my work has been quite busy and evenings are often spent with treatment plans, evaluations and notes. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppeJD1a5B6MQu9q76kS5j_4XK0WSHCikYVK4T_AeXy7ENJvyWfmA2WF6YVjmZO0n7ppyztkbPJPhcIDJ_6Vn2T4LbBNcaeNp3iNvsfZKsVPB4B2NFTcTol0sbBo50gMm3CBvlc4EcYX4/s1600/Hospital.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppeJD1a5B6MQu9q76kS5j_4XK0WSHCikYVK4T_AeXy7ENJvyWfmA2WF6YVjmZO0n7ppyztkbPJPhcIDJ_6Vn2T4LbBNcaeNp3iNvsfZKsVPB4B2NFTcTol0sbBo50gMm3CBvlc4EcYX4/s1600/Hospital.jpg" /></a></b></div>
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#8- <b>Children remember traditions now.</b> Could I skip doing homemade Christmas ornaments? Could I skimp on driving around looking at Christmas lights while delivering cookies? Could we skip singing carols at the nursing home? No- because they now <i>remember</i> what we did last year... They keep asking when they are going to get to their favorite things. THE PRESSURE!! AH!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixvb14WJQHLVIRuGYm4my3x7iW-mndGpUXga7UdX2GTW6olwa9Ai9jIV385RyJUsPYzWngWkWzgPSV9XnrJguSz2o51_HLMwJ4p0Vs08xdHmnRe0zpKm4_Obcba7lIEBjIxjxv6sNUbPk/s1600/Marshmallow+painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixvb14WJQHLVIRuGYm4my3x7iW-mndGpUXga7UdX2GTW6olwa9Ai9jIV385RyJUsPYzWngWkWzgPSV9XnrJguSz2o51_HLMwJ4p0Vs08xdHmnRe0zpKm4_Obcba7lIEBjIxjxv6sNUbPk/s320/Marshmallow+painting.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marshmallow paint (using sweetened condensed milk)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b> </b><br />
#7-<b>This Whole "Real School" Thing- </b>Lord- getting the kids to school <i>on time</i> every day and remembering to <i>pick them up- </i>who has time for this at the holidays? I almost wanted to keep them home from school to have uninterrupted prep time. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7QuJoiZTGh8m_D-N-KIy8RjkUlsLdXNx89mFMcUzRBpN9raQ8aj7PyyOGfKTpUha4UEQtkKxBgK8fTA6OKJONDcNjwOCcdGK-8QYGcKID_Bjw_1xABvS-j24LfGSxPIrxUuW63YkVVc/s1600/Family+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7QuJoiZTGh8m_D-N-KIy8RjkUlsLdXNx89mFMcUzRBpN9raQ8aj7PyyOGfKTpUha4UEQtkKxBgK8fTA6OKJONDcNjwOCcdGK-8QYGcKID_Bjw_1xABvS-j24LfGSxPIrxUuW63YkVVc/s320/Family+shot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At School Holiday performance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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#6- <b>Helping out Siblings in Distress- </b>Betsy decided to host an overwhelming large party while having a 3 month old and a two year old- needless to say she panicked a bit prior to the start. I am so grateful that I live within driving distance of her so I could help prep, plan, and implement her AWESOME Christmas shin-dig in her new place. (Yes, Betsy, I am using you as one of my excuses for not blogging).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0PmTvpgdHunWk0iLNpKChmmdmZKve-8bylKGO75aaBxoyHTAO0nb4dgXD02dTsnBFKEg8YddPfC3cf3DptWKiuFKT0jnoG81CXgTLs1imAnPLmAk32cPLcAsOBk9-ulTAxU70dXasv0/s1600/Rory+hands+full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0PmTvpgdHunWk0iLNpKChmmdmZKve-8bylKGO75aaBxoyHTAO0nb4dgXD02dTsnBFKEg8YddPfC3cf3DptWKiuFKT0jnoG81CXgTLs1imAnPLmAk32cPLcAsOBk9-ulTAxU70dXasv0/s320/Rory+hands+full.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rory with his hands full.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxbACb_JNCi1C7ROxXqWo79DpeTSyypvGakxtgCBKrVQJgrCDvNV78fXUpil0eWnNBm4q-KchjQWjt-i8fGdZAVWcocCqU8E7vx_DlfYf2b40QJIE-auwKfuxvyre6Aq96bCEc0m91as/s1600/Sweetest+nephew+ever.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxbACb_JNCi1C7ROxXqWo79DpeTSyypvGakxtgCBKrVQJgrCDvNV78fXUpil0eWnNBm4q-KchjQWjt-i8fGdZAVWcocCqU8E7vx_DlfYf2b40QJIE-auwKfuxvyre6Aq96bCEc0m91as/s320/Sweetest+nephew+ever.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who could stay mad at this cute little guy? Cutest nephew!!</td></tr>
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#5- <b>Christmas Concert</b>- Having some of my nights been taken up with piano lessons and even a Christmas concert at the school really slowed my blogging progress. Though having my kids be involved in a real "performance" was worth the time away :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fNpd0UtS2PC7hloYasbuDwdyxMSPev1LzBkynvgp9G4jX-bbgsJMsEnJEPBPOsqJPd8VG6QmYJ-QCUIyBRX-OlfxOVW8YLGcm1NIzlVLmnvZD5CC8QuQIgZ1MsAK1WGCwkYxFxFGUeQ/s1600/Concert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fNpd0UtS2PC7hloYasbuDwdyxMSPev1LzBkynvgp9G4jX-bbgsJMsEnJEPBPOsqJPd8VG6QmYJ-QCUIyBRX-OlfxOVW8YLGcm1NIzlVLmnvZD5CC8QuQIgZ1MsAK1WGCwkYxFxFGUeQ/s320/Concert.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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#4- <b>More Christmas Baking</b>- O.k. I am insane. After 250+ cookies, 300+ pieces of candy, I had a thought that I might have gone <i>a bit</i> over board. But honestly, from teachers, aids, support staff, friends, coworkers, mailmen, etc.--- I had over 20 cookie plates to deliver. The children were super helpful this year and we were a little factory of truffle makers and sprinklers. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2CUFTW1hUT00t0hVfD1Y0K2ppDD8IE229VRW4EgUBSdwTrFp9-Q6lRuWJx7iWPwZt6MLIOaQxRHUNLcihqJ-xsLlkZXuaQFb6psHkIQYRiqyOR8R_5QsvxKxVDfbMhrnRkOjVpsDHtI/s1600/Oreo+snowmen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2CUFTW1hUT00t0hVfD1Y0K2ppDD8IE229VRW4EgUBSdwTrFp9-Q6lRuWJx7iWPwZt6MLIOaQxRHUNLcihqJ-xsLlkZXuaQFb6psHkIQYRiqyOR8R_5QsvxKxVDfbMhrnRkOjVpsDHtI/s320/Oreo+snowmen.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx3CxIH43cNxkbn2Zb-ouy4Yb4KdWk4uT7P1MxI3s55CKugibOqQQrP_FpA6k9_UgWe1b7eKrlqHoyY5_JSZQvZHUE-narlPcJL4suWk3acshPd-V4Fkhe4Fsgy3fIilXVUB4LrVPyjY/s1600/Cookies2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx3CxIH43cNxkbn2Zb-ouy4Yb4KdWk4uT7P1MxI3s55CKugibOqQQrP_FpA6k9_UgWe1b7eKrlqHoyY5_JSZQvZHUE-narlPcJL4suWk3acshPd-V4Fkhe4Fsgy3fIilXVUB4LrVPyjY/s320/Cookies2.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCc243JSoe5hAfjuyyer_HVHxztQZues2mFCT3TNHw9UPKiM2Q83hqHwantgwTQBaNOIBxgsaZW35JIaTrHLR2e8uo6BvrnuBry9yyDQkQHEpF8oDaAbjGn46Vz7QYYm6UR_IVktXRRo/s1600/Wow+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCc243JSoe5hAfjuyyer_HVHxztQZues2mFCT3TNHw9UPKiM2Q83hqHwantgwTQBaNOIBxgsaZW35JIaTrHLR2e8uo6BvrnuBry9yyDQkQHEpF8oDaAbjGn46Vz7QYYm6UR_IVktXRRo/s320/Wow+cookies.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_PNKSomXp51y27hujVHvGDeK6RL_tMiP9pYhG3Ky-G-1RUT347vPNzpb9bY83q2EEXaLcHxGKmHYPHEhrXXEGEKxAHQkfNNzkwLfIOO8ht6MaEHmGasv8iRE7f6UbseScm-2BwtacZB8/s1600/Cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_PNKSomXp51y27hujVHvGDeK6RL_tMiP9pYhG3Ky-G-1RUT347vPNzpb9bY83q2EEXaLcHxGKmHYPHEhrXXEGEKxAHQkfNNzkwLfIOO8ht6MaEHmGasv8iRE7f6UbseScm-2BwtacZB8/s320/Cookies.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZd77FCS0o-E55f6vKGVFgN3uWrTg7672tA1KCMKG7xFucgu1b21-qIxzfUjpgD__oiDYqQ6B5BTagvq3784lyQWcEb2Axy51N3weQwdF3RUkMLD5sAdah_BUCWy606jvcGJRw7GQw8w/s1600/Cookies3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZd77FCS0o-E55f6vKGVFgN3uWrTg7672tA1KCMKG7xFucgu1b21-qIxzfUjpgD__oiDYqQ6B5BTagvq3784lyQWcEb2Axy51N3weQwdF3RUkMLD5sAdah_BUCWy606jvcGJRw7GQw8w/s320/Cookies3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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#3- <b>Christmas Pageant</b>- Who knew that having a sheep and an angel sing Christmas carols would require <i>hours</i> of practice. We spent several Saturday & Sunday afternoons in December rehearsing for the main event last weekend. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJbSxTSswmHjUkzBb1kjsgtXn3z7b6fvlwDlLLdMOs7XJMrd65kybartguTZpmaW-sJKxXTCknXfUNnwLaWl2N4ozR48jaeqUi4jtHNhE7nMU4lVJkZ9wLbif0hkvScXAL1rdTZVBUZQ/s1600/Big+pageant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJbSxTSswmHjUkzBb1kjsgtXn3z7b6fvlwDlLLdMOs7XJMrd65kybartguTZpmaW-sJKxXTCknXfUNnwLaWl2N4ozR48jaeqUi4jtHNhE7nMU4lVJkZ9wLbif0hkvScXAL1rdTZVBUZQ/s320/Big+pageant.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-iSA2LqnhMQMX1HsJLLjxvQJLCgrRjO-WkFhpMMBolJGNLa9s3uWSrfFOrnyjweFXrWbtHt2d5kl-3V9m8VXPg3fv0ZH3koFCpMdc_V5sb6tKF2xsOpFTaf7hCTMtspBBW6RXyLILTA/s1600/lamb+%2526+grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-iSA2LqnhMQMX1HsJLLjxvQJLCgrRjO-WkFhpMMBolJGNLa9s3uWSrfFOrnyjweFXrWbtHt2d5kl-3V9m8VXPg3fv0ZH3koFCpMdc_V5sb6tKF2xsOpFTaf7hCTMtspBBW6RXyLILTA/s320/lamb+%2526+grace.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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#2-<b>Squeezing in Shopping, Working, School, etc.-- NO TIME LEFT! - </b>So apparently, I have no time left after all those commitments. I am looking forward to trying to relax (which I don't know if I know <i>how</i> to relax) and maybe doing a jigsaw puzzle this week- I am so happy to have time with the girls!!!<br />
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#1- <b>Dance Parties</b> I'll leave you with my lamest excuse- We dance A LOT at my house. Here's our post-Christmas, new pajama dance party!!<br />
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Easy Rule #122515- Yes, Christmas time is crazy and I should probably allow more time for reflection, but the kids LOVE the traditions and I do love spoiling them with love and thoughtfulness :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The reason for the season. Christmas Day Mass- very peaceful, holy and takes a moment out of the selfish present unwrapping!</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-7921672232271198622015-12-03T19:29:00.007-08:002015-12-03T19:29:57.340-08:00Cinderella PartyJules here-<br />
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Before the onslaught of the holiday season, I decided (well, Grace and I decided) to throw a Cinderella viewing party. Ems and Jojo had seen the movie in the theater last year, and they raved about the new live-action movie. I didn't want to break my 7 year streak of not entering a movie theater, so we waited until it came out on DVD.<br />
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When I allow Grace on pinterest, things get crazy. Parties escalate. We started with having 2-3 girls over, and it ended up being 13 children and 6 adults.....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everyone came in costume!</td></tr>
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After we sent out scrolled invitations, we developed our menu to fit our theme. We wanted to make the children happy, but have a few grown-up taste dishes as well. Veggies and dip (ranch & hummus) are a staple at our parties as it's a way to get kids not to die of scurvy from all the other sugary stuff I feed them... So we called this area "Cinderella's Garden". We also had clementine "pumpkins" in this area. Of course, I forgot to take a picture but they looked like this:<br />
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We also served the classic cheese and crackers- but when we added a little whimsical mouse figurine and a label saying "Gus's Cheese and Crackers" voila- fits the theme!<br />
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The children devoured the fruits, veggies, cheese and crackers- but I still wanted to give them some more filling food before the movie started. I think "pigs in a blanket" always is a favorite- who doesn't like hot dogs and crescent rolls? So how could that fit the theme? I decided to go with the <i>original </i>Grimm's Cinderella and called these treats- "Stepsister's Toes" as they looked kind of like chopped off toes... gross, I know.<br />
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For the sweeter side I made fruit wands, a Cinderella gown cake, and I made chocolate dipped pretzel wands as well. We gobbled all of this up rather quickly during intermission from the movie:<br />
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We also decorated our home with lanterns, a painted, bejeweled pumpkin and loads of streamers (all leftovers from previous parties). <br />
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We had a great time planning, implement, and eating at our party. But the highlight WAS the movie-- highly recommended for the good values, acting, and entertaining take on the classic tale.<br />
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Easy Rule #432342- Why plan a simple movie night when you can go all out? <br />
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Easy Rule #34234- Definitely make extra food at a party- twice as much as you think. I had enough- but I feel as if I could have done more!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-90975281502336402652015-11-19T19:35:00.001-08:002015-11-19T19:35:06.305-08:00Little HabitsJules here-<br />
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I've posted in the past <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/search/label/fitness" target="_blank">about fitness</a>, nutrition, and staying motivated. I try to stay on top of the most recommended medical advice for my patients as well as for myself- and here's a few daily habits that have really improved my quality of life!<br />
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<b>Water, water, water</b>-<br />
I became very dehydrated when I was nursing James- I often had problems with low blood pressure, dizziness, and even increased heartburn from the struggle to keep enough water in my system. I started the habit of drinking 8-16oz of water AS SOON AS I AWAKE every morning. Before I eat breakfast, get dressed, or even get out of bed, I down the glass of water on my nightstand. By the time I eat lunch, I am usually well on my way to the 6-8 glasses of water recommended for the day. And since I front-load my water intake, I have less frequent middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks.<br />
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<i>Don't believe me? Here's some evidence:</i><br />
<a href="http://www.healthfitnessrevolution.com/16-oz-water-morning-boost-metabolism/" target="_blank">http://www.healthfitnessrevolution.com/16-oz-water-morning-boost-metabolism/ </a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I buy those cheap dollar store ones- fresh blade every day, $3 a month</td></tr>
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<b>Shaving Every Shower</b>-<br />
Many women joke about letting their leg hair grow all winter and only shave sporadically in the summer. As an Irish lass- I am quite prone to razor burn. Then I started shaving EVERY time I shower rather than a few times a week. My legs no longer need to be lathered in shaving cream- I can simply use regular soap without any ill-side effects. Then I spoke with a dermatologist who simply said, "Either shave daily, or never at all." Hmm... my experiment is legit. Making sure you moisturize and exfoliate is key too.<br />
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<i>More shaving tips here:</i><br />
<a href="http://www.healthfitnessrevolution.com/16-oz-water-morning-boost-metabolism/">http://www.healthfitnessrevolution.com/16-oz-water-morning-boost-metabolism/</a><br />
<i> </i><br />
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<b>Sunscreen in Lotion-</b><br />
Once again, my Irish skin can NOT handle the sun. I went into a Coppertone "see your skin damage" booth and it was an enlightening (well, horrifying) experience. Every freckle I have ever had was visible; every wrinkle that I will have popped up, and every area that "could" turn into skin cancer became glaringly obvious. After crying, I decided to lather on sunscreen every day- and the easiest solution was to add it to my morning lotion. I prefer Oil of Olay as it's reputable and affordable, but there are dozens of choices. <br />
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<i>Here's a video on why sunscreen is important every day:</i><br />
<a href="http://www.dermtv.com/why-you-need-wear-sunscreen-every-day" target="_blank">http://www.dermtv.com/why-you-need-wear-sunscreen-every-day </a><br />
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<b>Being a Bit Unwashed-</b><br />
Hairdressers have been saying it for years, but in our ultra-clean, overly-hygienic society, the idea of NOT washing our hair sounds gross. BUT, we have a tendency to dry out our hair with over-doing shampoo. If you can hold off on scrubbing your locks every day, you'll find your styles will last longer and it will maintain its natural sheen. If you work out, you can always you dry-shampoo to alleviate any sweat!<br />
<br />
<i>More on your beauty regime:</i><br />
<a href="http://beauty.about.com/od/hairbasics/f/hairwashing.htm">http://beauty.about.com/od/hairbasics/f/hairwashing.htm</a><br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlhnQS2g3zJwLzGAuFMN0e1f9xSfreQM6Wb6JgHnyJPnMeQi2va6Yv4CBIHmfGKQap9oBOGHlPBktA7_Xn414g0QvtribtVw64uoRQYkqq0_Nxy-Ghz4tt2QlqTntDKNAHRUo-n9Fhcw/s1600/breakast.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlhnQS2g3zJwLzGAuFMN0e1f9xSfreQM6Wb6JgHnyJPnMeQi2va6Yv4CBIHmfGKQap9oBOGHlPBktA7_Xn414g0QvtribtVw64uoRQYkqq0_Nxy-Ghz4tt2QlqTntDKNAHRUo-n9Fhcw/s1600/breakast.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Or, just eat cereal. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Breakfast-</b><br />
Personally, I can't imagine NOT eating breakfast. I am <i>starving</i> in the morning. BUT, so many Americans skip the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast jump-starts your metabolism enabling you to burn more calories and feel more energized. Add some protein, dietary fiber, and you are good to go!<br />
<br />
<i>Tons of research has gone into the breakfast benefits:</i><br />
<a href="http://www.webmd.com/diet/many-benefits-breakfast" target="_blank">http://www.webmd.com/diet/many-benefits-breakfast<i> </i></a><br />
<br />
<i> </i> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-i4jUVMQut0uAdCUzIQRyoy2kfQM9rKazDl38RunYrHuS9kuK_WJ9q0cGco749al3lAfBXsqtvF3WK00yTHBGabUHHFn8yv15S2Hah8HEnCbyUQnp8WwmYB1E9rCCAQ2kF1nLThMauY/s1600/exercise-illustration.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-i4jUVMQut0uAdCUzIQRyoy2kfQM9rKazDl38RunYrHuS9kuK_WJ9q0cGco749al3lAfBXsqtvF3WK00yTHBGabUHHFn8yv15S2Hah8HEnCbyUQnp8WwmYB1E9rCCAQ2kF1nLThMauY/s320/exercise-illustration.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Yoga to Jumping Jacks- find what you like!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>Just a Bitty Bit of Exercise-</b><br />
20 minutes- that's all you need to reap the benefits of cardiovascular health, mental well-being, and the ability to fit in your pants. Seriously, online there are thousands of free work outs ranging from walking to high intensity interval training. As long as your heart gets pumping, your energy level will keep you upbeat all day. Well, maybe not if you have kids...<br />
<br />
<i>Just a bit of exercise goes a long way:</i><br />
<a href="http://www.popsugar.com/fitness/Health-Benefits-20-Minutes-Exercise-31023996">http://www.popsugar.com/fitness/Health-Benefits-20-Minutes-Exercise-31023996</a><br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZL8Rg0KBL2A90F15368PUADOzIJBLZUAhjKqHMEprHotHpEcVplwnTc3YkzqGtKVyQc6UREc1NT5ygu2lBLP1woh88Vf18MMgt_-M6CZ9zH_LP_8efmffBVztkjd7NXFDwAZub3zH2E/s1600/happy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZL8Rg0KBL2A90F15368PUADOzIJBLZUAhjKqHMEprHotHpEcVplwnTc3YkzqGtKVyQc6UREc1NT5ygu2lBLP1woh88Vf18MMgt_-M6CZ9zH_LP_8efmffBVztkjd7NXFDwAZub3zH2E/s320/happy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Making a Choice-</b><br />
This isn't really a "healthy body" habit- but it is a healthy-mind choice. Take a moment to remind yourself that YOU choose your mood, attitude, and perspective. Instead of blaming misfortune or other people's decisions for your own grumpiness- choose NOT to be grumpy. Choose to be loving, kind, and happy- it's as simple as making that decision. Putting others' needs before your own is a good start in finding an inner peace and satisfaction with daily life. <br />
<br />
<i>A little reading on how to be happy:</i><br />
<a href="http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/choosing-to-be-happy" target="_blank">http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/choosing-to-be-happy<i> </i></a> <br />
<b> </b><br />
Easy Rule #1190938- Start with the little steps for a healthier life.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-44510032236154537972015-11-11T19:28:00.004-08:002015-11-11T19:28:36.209-08:00Lessons this WeekJules here-<br />
<br />
As usual, I am constantly evolving as a person and I am not ashamed to admit that I learn something (the hard way usually) every day. Here's a sum up of what I have learned this week:<br /><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zDb6zwzDJv3UXfYYFHjKEuDYJW9hgrEPMMZrP4eCmQqaUU6Ck20iCgD9341YvIgtSolIm-Kef43qQyORenP25yEcpkUGW-xGqUw1xHIAxVTq9QJVgBLKU2smMG2Q2WJdXx940WDRcIg/s1600/Facepaint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zDb6zwzDJv3UXfYYFHjKEuDYJW9hgrEPMMZrP4eCmQqaUU6Ck20iCgD9341YvIgtSolIm-Kef43qQyORenP25yEcpkUGW-xGqUw1xHIAxVTq9QJVgBLKU2smMG2Q2WJdXx940WDRcIg/s320/Facepaint.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grace Face Paint- obviously professional, not my work.</td></tr>
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<b>I'm Not Regretful of Lack of Effort<br /></b>As James's birthday neared, I kept asking him what kind of cake he wanted- he said a golf cake then a football cake, then a hockey cake, etc. So, I planned nothing. I wasn't really doing a party for him- so I wasn't stressed out. A couple of hours before cake time- I whipped up a 30 minute "hockey" cake for him with using Halloween candy and melted white chocolate. It looked really, really homemade, and I even bought (*gasp*) icing. James LOVED the Hockey Theme and constantly said, "This is a perfect cake. This is exactly the hockey cake I wanted" etc. It was really sweet. But then, he took two bites and looked at me and said, "Mommy, I hate the cake, o.k.?" I DIED laughing. He really doesn't like store bought icing I guess, plus he likes Halloween candy more than cake. So he ate a Kit Kat instead. No harm done :)<br />
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<b>Sometimes Advocating <i>isn't</i> Being a "Helicopter" Mom<br /></b><br />
Since both of my parents are teachers, I have the tendency to have the mentality that the<i> teacher</i> is always right. Compared to the mindset of most "helicopter" parents, this is a novel concept. I have made a conscious effort to respect the teacher's decisions, support the assignments, and not question curriculum. BUT, I have a highly-anxious 2nd grader who is not exactly sports-inclined (J<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2014/05/you-might-be-inadvertently-raising-dumb.html" target="_blank">ames must have gotten</a> all of those genes). Gym class was becoming a weekly panic attack for her- I needed to do something. I sheepishly approached the gym teacher with my concerns. I did NOT question her teaching, methods, or style; instead, I spoke of Grace's needs: reassurance, specific instructions, a chance to ask questions, and assistance with challenging gross motor demands. The teacher was surprised that Grace was so nervous, but she agreed to reassure her more. Grace was NOT crying this week after gym class just because the teacher simply asked her if she needed help or more time, that was fine! Quick fix that I hope keeps working.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm62LKqeXv_jYtV3vrhA7IXWO4wlxS-lp75VIsJMkfSeuIVjxBXmJBGn4pUCWBNXm0mRR0oCM7u7ZH7B1g94rmg76Spr1rbVozmTk0dyjq1ia8DFc3SSFMFgevMWv63NiHyLmT7ggfDAs/s1600/Funny+teacher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm62LKqeXv_jYtV3vrhA7IXWO4wlxS-lp75VIsJMkfSeuIVjxBXmJBGn4pUCWBNXm0mRR0oCM7u7ZH7B1g94rmg76Spr1rbVozmTk0dyjq1ia8DFc3SSFMFgevMWv63NiHyLmT7ggfDAs/s320/Funny+teacher.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is so true.</td></tr>
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<br /><b>My Idea of an Emergency Pales Compared to REAL Emergencies<br /></b><br />
I have made it 7.5 years before I have had to take a child to the ER-- woo hoo! But, my streak is over. James, while rough housing, hit the hard wood floor ledge with his chin last week. After surveying the wound and gushing blood, I decided a few stitches were in order. Luckily I grabbed a handful of Halloween candy before heading out the door, as I knew ERs have notoriously long waits-- but I did NOT expect a 4 1/2 hour visit. Four ambulances and a helicopter arrived while we waited anxiously dripping blood into gauze pads-- some lobby-mates were getting irritated and upset at the tedious wait. I, however, was surveying the gurneys with heart attack, stroke, and respiratory distress patients and I was grateful for my dripping chin little boy. 4 stitches for his 4th birthday!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVWLKCl_qLY1LU9en8DrxIcEmn3JyM52uUxx5q2s0ddEFvCvqzKurVuIIyo8JBW_t1ou0muLmAqYkOShxWJLQtllfCEuUsDg8ugV3Tcq1PwX-IziYsSVPeA-wW6xxt4-1dghwVT6vR18/s1600/Stiches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVWLKCl_qLY1LU9en8DrxIcEmn3JyM52uUxx5q2s0ddEFvCvqzKurVuIIyo8JBW_t1ou0muLmAqYkOShxWJLQtllfCEuUsDg8ugV3Tcq1PwX-IziYsSVPeA-wW6xxt4-1dghwVT6vR18/s320/Stiches.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Always Prep Your Kids- No Matter The Age.<br /></b>We volunteered at our church's Christmas craft fair last weekend- yes, Christmas. I think the church does it early so that we can get the first crazy Christmas consumers of the year. We helped with the kids room: cookie decorating, Santa visits, face painting, etc. Before James & Felicity sat on Santa's lap, I reminded them to think of a toy that they wanted him to bring. James chose a toy car (as if we don't have 3,000 at home) and Lissie asked for a tiara. Grace meanwhile was busy getting face painted. When it was Grace's turn, I didn't think to even prep her before sticking her on Santa's lap. When asked what she wanted for Christmas, Grace answered, "I really want new toothpaste." <i>Seriously</i>. Santa and the other church lady looked at me as if I was an abusive mother who does not provide basic toiletries for my child. In reality, Grace usually gets stocking stuffer toiletries that she looks forward to- but still, I really blushed. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_z-9lVV0nW2oLkhxuIw6XEvmfCHLt6wKLxMI7g8YExRVHNAKC05S0v56FNoKRax7LTbJW6rMCffneBPfVs7qYH1jBcpC5sdCjp0rcIYGd-lB2PnYQnB9Q31BIbR59_4sbFa2FA6NcWo/s1600/Santa+visit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_z-9lVV0nW2oLkhxuIw6XEvmfCHLt6wKLxMI7g8YExRVHNAKC05S0v56FNoKRax7LTbJW6rMCffneBPfVs7qYH1jBcpC5sdCjp0rcIYGd-lB2PnYQnB9Q31BIbR59_4sbFa2FA6NcWo/s320/Santa+visit2.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the blank expression.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdD-x1QVPF4jiDm-sTQJxEe-nbPg6Lh-Fo5uK0AwGjFX5uW1ooDwsD9wtKNt4V-_yz3za2tt815xs7huq1gd_5ojKa40HCv9aezHOvDW0ZY6RAhGxyHaQ5JPuyH2uE8ibTz0k2ikYXBk/s1600/Santa+visit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdD-x1QVPF4jiDm-sTQJxEe-nbPg6Lh-Fo5uK0AwGjFX5uW1ooDwsD9wtKNt4V-_yz3za2tt815xs7huq1gd_5ojKa40HCv9aezHOvDW0ZY6RAhGxyHaQ5JPuyH2uE8ibTz0k2ikYXBk/s320/Santa+visit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the kids!</td></tr>
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<b>Nature Can Best Even the Biggest Tightwad<br /></b><br />
I mow my lawn, garden, take out my garbage, <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/04/trading-spaces-jules-style.html" target="_blank">paint my room</a>s, etc. I do not budget for a handyman- though I do sucker my dad into helping me with dead mouse removal and hanging pictures from time to time. This fall, I decided to rake my own leaves and bag them. After 4 hours of raking, I didn't even DENT my yard. I was overwhelmed- so my mom said, "I'll help rake!" She came down while I was working and said, "You are going to need to hire someone, this is impossible!" I filled ten black leaf bags with only 3 of the 15 piles I have in my <i>back</i>yard (not my side or front yards...).... so I gave up. I have a landscaper coming to help next week- and to cut down on the price- I am babysitting their two boys (I know the landscaper at least!). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOlINPsxkJ0Spib051W1RkSLhPSU6F3_zRwFlewWCUPJyYGQh4ciM_mjttGVO8JLoW5XtKoo3TRHlo4UJoL2cY_Ovy5eGYmKsF5oTHRFj9b6gdKifFyO8kWoycZIyX2ZxnCX0DS9UqnU/s1600/House+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOlINPsxkJ0Spib051W1RkSLhPSU6F3_zRwFlewWCUPJyYGQh4ciM_mjttGVO8JLoW5XtKoo3TRHlo4UJoL2cY_Ovy5eGYmKsF5oTHRFj9b6gdKifFyO8kWoycZIyX2ZxnCX0DS9UqnU/s320/House+leaves.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah, my home with the pretties trees on the block.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTlkkj1DK3H0XFWna4icDgpr4Nypwn238kH_nnVCDblISYQPV_EtOz0pZA2oQbxBIIVvlFz59i9ibLKROLf8cGonMTbLi91qhMFPOi7sxrJQ-wHKhid1YPYRl0Pp2HVTWomEmYxY2L1H8/s1600/Leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTlkkj1DK3H0XFWna4icDgpr4Nypwn238kH_nnVCDblISYQPV_EtOz0pZA2oQbxBIIVvlFz59i9ibLKROLf8cGonMTbLi91qhMFPOi7sxrJQ-wHKhid1YPYRl0Pp2HVTWomEmYxY2L1H8/s320/Leaves.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from behind.... leaves are about 4" thick throughout.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoTIcXsbgKF3dYyfx1ZY4ZbftJ4B1vWAjF5WOeRv7d8FPXfc4iP9wupjnXNBX7JqNhHplxzkjW0JvFDoPTYXr2ivliOWsbjgr15KiLyp5cALWK7d-ojKVhq07RJTOIcS_4IaS9kREzsc/s1600/My+trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoTIcXsbgKF3dYyfx1ZY4ZbftJ4B1vWAjF5WOeRv7d8FPXfc4iP9wupjnXNBX7JqNhHplxzkjW0JvFDoPTYXr2ivliOWsbjgr15KiLyp5cALWK7d-ojKVhq07RJTOIcS_4IaS9kREzsc/s320/My+trees.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once again. lovely trees.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIEw2EKuWHmBrCJQVlQpM3t2fhNg9QHXLBHB5TBWjOU1eUOLG5dOCi83cwxroO6zTvFpR3BCXbjAnau-lES0ryEacEe06lQZFIvVcACsWDhiCklqnVAJVqCl8MDrXP_HvyaQYfc5DLLM/s1600/My+yard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIEw2EKuWHmBrCJQVlQpM3t2fhNg9QHXLBHB5TBWjOU1eUOLG5dOCi83cwxroO6zTvFpR3BCXbjAnau-lES0ryEacEe06lQZFIvVcACsWDhiCklqnVAJVqCl8MDrXP_HvyaQYfc5DLLM/s320/My+yard.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And... my driveway is there somewhere.</td></tr>
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<br />
Easy Rule #343234- Know when to throw in the rake, er, towel, when needed.<br />
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Easy Rule #4324- Next year, I am just making "candy" for James's birthday cake. Not worth the effort at all :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-49973190764916151712015-10-31T17:37:00.002-07:002015-10-31T17:37:34.179-07:00Halloween on a DimeJules here-<br />
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Happy Halloween!! I'm awaiting Trick or Treaters as I sit and type this- though we have had a few, it has not been the onslaught I predicted. So, as I am typing, I am taxing my over-full candy dish... mmmm... <br />
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My children did not want to go with our normal "theme" Halloween and my budget was less than $15 for ALL of the costumes.... How did I manage? Beg, borrow, and steal (well, <i>look</i> for steals at thrift shops...)<br />
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First, Grace. She wanted to be a cowgirl. Luckily, she was brave enough to ask a couple of classmates to borrow cowgirl boots AND a hat. Two items down, check! She already had jeans, but she needed a few additional accessories.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJzIkNpccT1mmXNSHtcIARS5AFv26xijXJXpyrXV7r7tzyjIZMQbKFyk1jXUM3gHQpHb4iWq8bLsxnWyW6p3uDRSH-gaPX8pNLMRPvmp5nIozqwLFzlKOeW53DCd68Gk5D6qB7cNGTlI/s1600/Cowgirl+Grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJzIkNpccT1mmXNSHtcIARS5AFv26xijXJXpyrXV7r7tzyjIZMQbKFyk1jXUM3gHQpHb4iWq8bLsxnWyW6p3uDRSH-gaPX8pNLMRPvmp5nIozqwLFzlKOeW53DCd68Gk5D6qB7cNGTlI/s320/Cowgirl+Grace.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Costume cost:<br />
$0- Borrowed hat<br />
$0- Borrowed boots<br />
$0- Previously owned jeans<br />
$1.50- Flannel Shirt<br />
$0.25- Bandanna<br />
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Total costume cost: $1.75</td></tr>
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Second, Felicity wanted to be a chicken. Yes, a chicken- I don't know why. I looked <i>everywhere </i>for a chicken costume to no avail. So I had to be creative, and spend more money than I intended. I bought a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SUNQTWM/ref=s9_simh_gw_p193_d11_i2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=desktop-1&pf_rd_r=0EZJKPG7570MJF7T8HR8&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=2253014322&pf_rd_i=desktop" target="_blank">chicken hat on Amazon.</a> Turned out to be AWESOME. We had white pants, an old white sweater of mine, and a white long-sleeved undershirt. I did have to buy a fluffy scarf for the wings/tail and some hospital sock chicken feet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRw6SuN1EQIVOaFp68ZTGJKmXHZ5foOaJDB8QdN_iGVtmCmluNYqTSnJQtoRlCymilpq-ah01M2Lk5LcG13TBfnX4bDHlD4bWBaIL4bNye8SqyRaSt-IMX4JXFdKJJKHrTsI_2n91bJ4/s1600/Chicken+Lissie+2.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRw6SuN1EQIVOaFp68ZTGJKmXHZ5foOaJDB8QdN_iGVtmCmluNYqTSnJQtoRlCymilpq-ah01M2Lk5LcG13TBfnX4bDHlD4bWBaIL4bNye8SqyRaSt-IMX4JXFdKJJKHrTsI_2n91bJ4/s320/Chicken+Lissie+2.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She could put hat up for visibility too.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3dy7Zv1BA6hF5jmr1yx05FAsOrSESOFzu1gL29_H2oMrArOA-ymnV-x7_isJ5m7WK3IBazNZUrlcAbomElpSIEZW3ooiAWKXwEA_t5QtdiXLUc9wFQKFh84w37rMONlHa6Q0HPOOEog/s1600/Chicken+Lissie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3dy7Zv1BA6hF5jmr1yx05FAsOrSESOFzu1gL29_H2oMrArOA-ymnV-x7_isJ5m7WK3IBazNZUrlcAbomElpSIEZW3ooiAWKXwEA_t5QtdiXLUc9wFQKFh84w37rMONlHa6Q0HPOOEog/s320/Chicken+Lissie.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$5.95- Chicken hat<br />
$0- White accent clothing, previously owned.<br />
$2.00- White scarf from thrift shop<br />
$0.25- Yellow chicken feet hospital socks<br />
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Total cost of costume: $8.20</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRw6SuN1EQIVOaFp68ZTGJKmXHZ5foOaJDB8QdN_iGVtmCmluNYqTSnJQtoRlCymilpq-ah01M2Lk5LcG13TBfnX4bDHlD4bWBaIL4bNye8SqyRaSt-IMX4JXFdKJJKHrTsI_2n91bJ4/s1600/Chicken+Lissie+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Lastly, James- who KEPT changing his costume idea. So, instead of asking him anymore, I borrowed a Spiderman costume from my awesome-former-neighbors!! So a FREE costume!! He loved being a superhero too!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRlnErHEdlD1yTmng3ZY2QbjokaXQXezIcQir0Mm-Qp6hF5AmojpWbVAZnNMRgpTjsdb9JOt2g8xcnXwteG98Y6rNz6471x_hBLwId6T_kG9U532B-XSTK3lJs4u8TDL9CkhV0dzsJxEE/s1600/Spiderman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRlnErHEdlD1yTmng3ZY2QbjokaXQXezIcQir0Mm-Qp6hF5AmojpWbVAZnNMRgpTjsdb9JOt2g8xcnXwteG98Y6rNz6471x_hBLwId6T_kG9U532B-XSTK3lJs4u8TDL9CkhV0dzsJxEE/s320/Spiderman.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$0- Spiderman costume</td></tr>
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<b>Total Cost of Halloween Costumes: $9.95--- Woo Hoo!!!</b><br />
So, I bought an 8 pack of glow sticks for safety on their costumes AND 3 pairs of gloves to keep their hands warm tonight!<br />
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<b>Halloween total: $14.95</b> (not including the ridiculously expensive candy that we have to hand out...)<br />
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Oh and my last minute Halloween costume? Clark Kent. <br />
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$0- Old sunglasses with lenses pushed out.<br />
$0- Superman pajama shirt- previously owned<br />
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Total cost of awesomeness- Free.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLE8Gx4rstJBwsnl5XoMx6o1p9h0aw5EgKfqRog3_7OmR1UzU425HpQMe8kpdAdEdhaGyOYV-hOBEUYTnMUDn-8AHm3ICV3XekXhOtgLBxwvvboRisIWFwFSMMk-pkG14turvl4q2niY/s1600/Haloween+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLE8Gx4rstJBwsnl5XoMx6o1p9h0aw5EgKfqRog3_7OmR1UzU425HpQMe8kpdAdEdhaGyOYV-hOBEUYTnMUDn-8AHm3ICV3XekXhOtgLBxwvvboRisIWFwFSMMk-pkG14turvl4q2niY/s320/Haloween+Photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The group shot!</td></tr>
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HAPPY HALLOWEEN!<br />
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Easy Rule #1031002- You don't always have to make things from scratch for them to be cheap!! I spent less this year than<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2014/11/a-homemade-halloween-and-birthday.html" target="_blank"> last year's homemade debacle. </a><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-44517690956084501552015-10-26T05:00:00.001-07:002015-10-26T05:03:03.823-07:00Picture itEms here:<div><br></div><div>Here are a few of the happenings around our home as symbolized through pictures .</div><div><br></div><div><div><br></div><div>1. My oldest two boys are now in "regular" school in 7th grade. We have mixed reviews :</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHLT4O9czFe59nSlcDx1ucs2BGjOR9hZNNUphhOjvI8rpJ-IEb0XbdpPJeeLSHExtFUUmpkIKPUKa7NJ7HOVycpOiGpe1PU_-ysK8fkI0q_ydclpwQWgZj__ygvWk4QMBj6eBf8sue5k/s640/blogger-image--1918706260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHLT4O9czFe59nSlcDx1ucs2BGjOR9hZNNUphhOjvI8rpJ-IEb0XbdpPJeeLSHExtFUUmpkIKPUKa7NJ7HOVycpOiGpe1PU_-ysK8fkI0q_ydclpwQWgZj__ygvWk4QMBj6eBf8sue5k/s640/blogger-image--1918706260.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Although academically and socially both boys are doing great, Theo resents the early wake up and the lack of free time.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>2. In an effort to sneak in a healthy vegetable to my children this week, I put spinach in the dinner smoothie. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIglo12oViCRC3gRPE1OcqkcB4dPvRT9u0z1dVd1s8l4p20ZY6pGeTryKVxAPyxgu0fjPyA7-dUXbrIdA01w96d0vp_uIyyd30Jx_ZHSUlWHZ1eRGFobk6spAFTUmm90dQSBNnrKhkQQ/s640/blogger-image--1122767149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIglo12oViCRC3gRPE1OcqkcB4dPvRT9u0z1dVd1s8l4p20ZY6pGeTryKVxAPyxgu0fjPyA7-dUXbrIdA01w96d0vp_uIyyd30Jx_ZHSUlWHZ1eRGFobk6spAFTUmm90dQSBNnrKhkQQ/s640/blogger-image--1122767149.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My kids were horrified, and I heard the question "why are you making us eat grass and parsley?!"</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>3. I've recently been inundated by a flood of questions while about town with the kiddies, trying to ascertain if the children are actually <b>mine. </b>Someone asked if they came from my body. Others ask if I am fostering or if I have adopted all these children. One man asked if I run a home daycare! To all these folks, I present this handy cheat sheet:</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUb8VQs5OFpGpdFop2pA1PS5l_RwQK7zFhJt6OSylWTsaortmhm4Uxqeb1cfexwBzIYEqFbt3FpgxAreZUWNPuQI9rM_dOphJelmCsfwt-58mZkLYv7209PXUUI2oF_mulg3ol8bXZXuo/s640/blogger-image-1851801404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUb8VQs5OFpGpdFop2pA1PS5l_RwQK7zFhJt6OSylWTsaortmhm4Uxqeb1cfexwBzIYEqFbt3FpgxAreZUWNPuQI9rM_dOphJelmCsfwt-58mZkLYv7209PXUUI2oF_mulg3ol8bXZXuo/s640/blogger-image-1851801404.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>4. Baby Gemma is starting to be trouble! She is crawling now and pulling up to stand using everything imaginable--tables, chairs, laundry baskets, siblings, etc. Here she is eating illegally obtained cookies: </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmpUM5iYEZxjP_Ykl6aUyR8yFpuUepZ8i0rjSTApijB0rO8rV-UaYOYvm71GVBV8xqH46k3G-5THbCpnP7Qba7p5MO46uvkD-wwl4NYror_dYKSYyhxj65BZHtlK_UgF7A9GCuwWcCek/s640/blogger-image-664416957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmpUM5iYEZxjP_Ykl6aUyR8yFpuUepZ8i0rjSTApijB0rO8rV-UaYOYvm71GVBV8xqH46k3G-5THbCpnP7Qba7p5MO46uvkD-wwl4NYror_dYKSYyhxj65BZHtlK_UgF7A9GCuwWcCek/s640/blogger-image-664416957.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>5. I've rediscovered an addiction to Swiss Cake Rolls. Please pray for me.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKEZPQgNdcu_NCqa6Phn3FWCUyJwazXUmNMkpdGkL9buqf981idWE4tu8Bd0q8ES0dhYaSHqqn1JJ4MjKoDyEmD7xrP6mI_MR5PEbvkemQwOFs-qXC-FZAT6YsjXJT_hWr1_r6iLHat4/s640/blogger-image-1100360164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKEZPQgNdcu_NCqa6Phn3FWCUyJwazXUmNMkpdGkL9buqf981idWE4tu8Bd0q8ES0dhYaSHqqn1JJ4MjKoDyEmD7xrP6mI_MR5PEbvkemQwOFs-qXC-FZAT6YsjXJT_hWr1_r6iLHat4/s640/blogger-image-1100360164.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>6. The fall sports' seasons are wrapping up! Lacrosse mini-season is over, and the whole family came out to support my team for their scrimmage. Thanks, Hubby!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwY10vbIA0QKLKruDf2pTfw21ixUSjmI6EHRH9wbfOO9d6J6V_fXmTuMVNn2b00-KmzVeOEft7KiAITucfGw808Szo34-noXM128LQfNeum9KumQXlvLaTdBlf2pRWC1PJaq-hAbsudwg/s640/blogger-image--770585826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwY10vbIA0QKLKruDf2pTfw21ixUSjmI6EHRH9wbfOO9d6J6V_fXmTuMVNn2b00-KmzVeOEft7KiAITucfGw808Szo34-noXM128LQfNeum9KumQXlvLaTdBlf2pRWC1PJaq-hAbsudwg/s640/blogger-image--770585826.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I'm holding Gemma while taking the picture, of course.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRairDt7gxVLXq3C_hJs64mrsrP2K1prfpjD_TEKrJrsR6r0BdHKvgXq9quVOqfb1tGF3_KdPJqIfMeNrlsY6Rt89Ri7c1zwwva15yVHiaP13g8uTj3n5Morn3TOXJ6XieGfH8mjW3eU/s640/blogger-image-1773597559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRairDt7gxVLXq3C_hJs64mrsrP2K1prfpjD_TEKrJrsR6r0BdHKvgXq9quVOqfb1tGF3_KdPJqIfMeNrlsY6Rt89Ri7c1zwwva15yVHiaP13g8uTj3n5Morn3TOXJ6XieGfH8mjW3eU/s640/blogger-image-1773597559.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My soccer dudes:) Jojo and Tad have also joined the ranks of soccer kiddos this season, so we've been busy game-watching and cheering!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>I think that pretty well summarizes life these past couple months (outside of this pesky cold that's been haunting us!). Hope all is well with you, Dear Reader(s).</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Easy Rule #4552: Spinach is too visible to hide in smoothies. (Note to self: Maybe try Swiss Cake Rolls?)</div><div><br></div></div>Ems L.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15706813780836832989noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-58032397735653181552015-10-18T18:23:00.002-07:002015-10-18T18:23:20.452-07:00I'm a better Mom when...Jules here-<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpynVCDHgIKH96SBH5vSdtAfrECj8C-r8sWtix1T8e2-eizTTOuyX73uvbUvGWlQgkVBkgkKemaBm7GtLc-xk3XgEGlRO0gsKN2HNviLwTUrpjiMQwvQrQMXzXBVNzMvTViswUdTjfAms/s1600/James+%2526+Mommy+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpynVCDHgIKH96SBH5vSdtAfrECj8C-r8sWtix1T8e2-eizTTOuyX73uvbUvGWlQgkVBkgkKemaBm7GtLc-xk3XgEGlRO0gsKN2HNviLwTUrpjiMQwvQrQMXzXBVNzMvTViswUdTjfAms/s320/James+%2526+Mommy+-+Copy.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
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<b>Sometimes, I'm a better mom when I wear sweatpants. </b></div>
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When I wake up in the morning and throw on yoga pants for the day- I am willing to snuggle on the couch and read stories. I am more likely to clean my home as I don't fear bleach stains or spills.I will chase them around the playground and sit on the grass with them. I don't worry about wrinkles, stains, or tears when I wear sweatpants.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hair salon victim, I mean customer...</td></tr>
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<b>Sometimes, I'm a better mom when I don't shower.</b></div>
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My imperfect hair is a perfect canvas for my little hairstylists to add dozens of bows and hair clips. Their "hair salon" leaves me with seven ponytails and a few braids and they love when I model in front of a mirror. We head bang along to the Bohemian Rhapsody with wild hair. Unshowered, unwashed, we have more fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajwQ7aOMIR2S3fjJKn4Ehb6-p_Edv0DTgpTbLTP0PTeTXjUQXGBdVoZCeEHZZ0tdcabHagjkb9DonwRgM_gHdU-kW_BMjE2XdAHvUH7RsooHaB3CR44nbyavjqd3oUNaWlx4PUjqepOk/s1600/3-+Grace+Heart+pancake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajwQ7aOMIR2S3fjJKn4Ehb6-p_Edv0DTgpTbLTP0PTeTXjUQXGBdVoZCeEHZZ0tdcabHagjkb9DonwRgM_gHdU-kW_BMjE2XdAHvUH7RsooHaB3CR44nbyavjqd3oUNaWlx4PUjqepOk/s320/3-+Grace+Heart+pancake.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pancakes- Not just for holidays!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Sometimes, I'm a better mom when I serve breakfast for dinner. </b> </div>
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Instead of laboriously making a well-balanced meal, I serve pancakes and waffles drenched in syrup. The kids love the "no vegetable" dinner and they gleefully eat crispy bacon with sticky fingers. We discuss their school days while flipping pancakes and I have the time to enjoy dinner without the huge mess in the kitchen. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpxREWQWittt_QwCQW76vuoNZLZrfW1NjMNlhVZA18G6IjHoEXWbPh5PvGHdukt91eQ_ZDNdiAyyb_twCHHyZtWS53Pu-pm66Ib-nIvwegHat_xwcDRffHbv8-9QRBJF71KBWH95Ihsc/s1600/Messy+living+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpxREWQWittt_QwCQW76vuoNZLZrfW1NjMNlhVZA18G6IjHoEXWbPh5PvGHdukt91eQ_ZDNdiAyyb_twCHHyZtWS53Pu-pm66Ib-nIvwegHat_xwcDRffHbv8-9QRBJF71KBWH95Ihsc/s320/Messy+living+room.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mess of last years moving....AAHH! So glad to be done that.</td></tr>
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<b>Sometimes, I'm a better mom when I leave dishes in the sink. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Some nights we have giggly dinners with Knock Knock jokes and silly stories- instead of rushing to clean the kitchen- I let it go. I let the mess go to enjoy the fun tangential conversation that typically end with James drooling with laughter. I let them take dozens of toys out and we create villages, train stations, battle scenes- we enjoy the imagination and creativity without the fear of mess. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Sometimes when I am not the perfect mom, I actually am.</b></div>
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Easy Rule #42342- Relax a bit, drop your guard, experience ever day.<br />
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Easy Rule #324234- When you aren't a "perfect" mom- you don't often take pictures. Sorry none of the photos really make sense.... <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-37025349424137410792015-10-10T19:46:00.000-07:002015-10-11T05:39:22.287-07:00Teaching RespectJules here-<br />
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While at Marshalls the other day, I overheard (well, the WHOLE STORE overheard) a little girl (maybe 4 years old) throw an <i>epic</i> tantrum about wanting this Hello Kitty purse. Apparently, the price was a bit too steep for the parents and they were trying to reason with the child. Of course, the little girl wanted <i>this</i> purse and she did NOT want to wait until they went to Wal-Mart to see if it was cheaper...etc.... etc... etc... The parents continued to promise this child the purse no matter what- and they were frantically searching on their smartphone to see if the "same exact purse" was available cheaper.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPRzJBrZrXS-oFelA-Mp_EMAPbX8-rjRM9RojnCyCl-9Wy_4Q9tVyehGNV8zxIT6y9OBpe8ifdlnarbPUust70V9MJeiCdYfH76H-BOHRX3-PfK44kJa8wyXP9yuF5jE-wCVrLtz2tZXw/s1600/ecard+tantrum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPRzJBrZrXS-oFelA-Mp_EMAPbX8-rjRM9RojnCyCl-9Wy_4Q9tVyehGNV8zxIT6y9OBpe8ifdlnarbPUust70V9MJeiCdYfH76H-BOHRX3-PfK44kJa8wyXP9yuF5jE-wCVrLtz2tZXw/s320/ecard+tantrum.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now, I have had children throw fits in stores before; I have been blushing from my hairline to my toes as I sling a child over my shoulder and storm out of the store. But, I would <i>never ever</i> acquiesce to a demanding, selfish, and unreasonable kiddo in a store. Am I <a href="http://www.easyrules123.blogspot.com/2014/06/winning-every-battle.html" target="_blank">perfect about always disciplining</a>? No- I will bribe a kid with chocolate bars to smile during a family reunion shot or continually let them eat lollipops at the doctor's office even when they are not behaving as expected.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3BXgufpPTn9e0hlBQT2xZeWSfyf_TZqKBg80EFOyy8saJh1zUSNew0uXkaA2dyf5KaLtaHbQVjNVpRM4s9mYTNvtH4zvmhwJOkCL0PaQD2IolbsliTMtxXQ06Ug_wqGqM_uLdCrKQciw/s1600/82-+Another+attempt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3BXgufpPTn9e0hlBQT2xZeWSfyf_TZqKBg80EFOyy8saJh1zUSNew0uXkaA2dyf5KaLtaHbQVjNVpRM4s9mYTNvtH4zvmhwJOkCL0PaQD2IolbsliTMtxXQ06Ug_wqGqM_uLdCrKQciw/s320/82-+Another+attempt.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the freaking out James. Even candy-bribe didn't work </td></tr>
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So after my viewing of the tantrum, I witnessed another family: two teenage children at dinner with their parents. It was a family-style restaurant: casual dining, noisy kids, cheap food- my kind of place. The teens were glued to their phones the ENTIRE meal. At one point, the mom <i>sheepishly </i>asked them to put away their phones- not only did they NOT acquiesce they <i>smirked</i> at her. The father did nothing expect shrug. Respect has left that family....<br />
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What has happened with families that the parents have lost complete control over their children? I think it's a few things combined in our culture:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Parents have been taught to "not trust" their instincts</b>. Online you can find ten different ways to handle every situation: from bottle feeding to spanking- parents<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/01/mommy-shaming-nursery-or-not.html" target="_blank"> can feel guilty about </a><i><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/01/mommy-shaming-nursery-or-not.html" target="_blank">anything</a>.</i> It used to be if your child acted up- you dealt with it. You didn't look online for "strategies" you just did it. Now, I am not saying that you shouldn't look for support or advice- however, make sure you aren't just looking online to find excuses. It's really easy to laugh when someone says, "Oh you let your kids watch 4 hours of TV a day? So do I! Then that's normal!!" Make sure you are challenging yourself to parent wiser not just look for people who support your not-so-great decisions. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVz7-v1_CuZOxwaG-twADFTECavRS5trN4rUv5o-DWQ5l56pezKQ_r6M46sHI2KFDF4YQ9MDWCbE9RR5JlzQvclkHWn6hBsVjW-l-NHnK_WQlkCEedY7cEakgNyFmed5xZzHcqfCyQAPw/s1600/Parenting+books.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVz7-v1_CuZOxwaG-twADFTECavRS5trN4rUv5o-DWQ5l56pezKQ_r6M46sHI2KFDF4YQ9MDWCbE9RR5JlzQvclkHWn6hBsVjW-l-NHnK_WQlkCEedY7cEakgNyFmed5xZzHcqfCyQAPw/s320/Parenting+books.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You better read all these so you can raise your kids.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>The undermining of the family through "family" programming</b>. When we watch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSt-pwjQ_-Y" target="_blank">Leave it to Beaver</a> now, we scoff at the portrayal of the family life: perfect wife & mother with a hardworking, knowledgeable father and <i>respectful </i>children. Starting in the 1980s, the father became the buffoon. Even family-friendly shows like <i>Home Improvement </i>or <i>Everybody Loves Raymond</i>- the mother's became the sole source of knowledge and family-management. Once in awhile the father would have an insight, but usually the mother was the hero of the story. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC139lauITVCdcKICfjgUEbdRjgCQbWBf84BAef_hzSVp1wrRU2VnQBNDlAXuetga_d7QltPg7BVx8ThkTxtROvr6YqfhQG8OQqk55CsPT2vTAAZ0_U4nroeLQnIxpORiMxqiosZBb6Hk/s1600/Raymond+quote.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC139lauITVCdcKICfjgUEbdRjgCQbWBf84BAef_hzSVp1wrRU2VnQBNDlAXuetga_d7QltPg7BVx8ThkTxtROvr6YqfhQG8OQqk55CsPT2vTAAZ0_U4nroeLQnIxpORiMxqiosZBb6Hk/s320/Raymond+quote.jpg" width="109" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is hilarious though :)</td></tr>
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</li>
<li><b>Children's books, shows, and movies.</b> After all the wonderful picture books I have read my children, I looked forward to great "first" chapter books for Grace. Though we love the Magic Tree House Series and a few others,....<i>so many</i> of the books have snarky lead characters. I really don't like the <i>Just Grace</i> or <i>Judy Moody </i>series because the stars are rude, disrespectful, and flippant with their parents. These books are geared for 5-8 year olds-- we are <i>teaching</i> children to talk back, make snide comments, and not listen to us!! Have you tuned into the Disney Channel (not Disney Junior)? Parents are portrayed as idiots and the kids are constantly talking their way out trouble. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUTHyu5c0sN9KDhmv780OifxHbFWGBR7_Rl-27Ql2sN0yg0QWz8uwP0ZtxdIck4SxwLRlUx-3BBVEhxu4ICbmHjVs22xRSMh1MsBYLDUFp9hsUYIhBAybNgT4u5NjoYG2MqcEgrglP2Y/s1600/Magic+Tree+house.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUTHyu5c0sN9KDhmv780OifxHbFWGBR7_Rl-27Ql2sN0yg0QWz8uwP0ZtxdIck4SxwLRlUx-3BBVEhxu4ICbmHjVs22xRSMh1MsBYLDUFp9hsUYIhBAybNgT4u5NjoYG2MqcEgrglP2Y/s320/Magic+Tree+house.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good fun reads! Great as an audiobook too.</td></tr>
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</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Laziness</b>. We have become the quick-fix society. I get impatient waiting for the microwave or my computer to load up. In our instantaneous society we expect our children to behave after 1-2 attempts at discipline. It takes THOUSANDS of reminders to have your child to remember to say "Please" or "Thank You"-- imagine how long it takes to build a child's character? Umm.... literally forever. My mom is still working on me :) I know that many times I don't feel like "dealing" with a kid, but I know that in the long-run, getting off the couch might save me tantrums later. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qVJDYspc3N1UlHHOGguzghbWpAD1npUQqxuOPOBka0gM0A5trl1HJGLPUin2yJ1boCo8wG3BL__ool6wjaw9swM_qeCFUQ_tweameYUR9SIF2TcOgupEFj1MdZyc_tWK_F1-KENOruo/s1600/Ecard+kid.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qVJDYspc3N1UlHHOGguzghbWpAD1npUQqxuOPOBka0gM0A5trl1HJGLPUin2yJ1boCo8wG3BL__ool6wjaw9swM_qeCFUQ_tweameYUR9SIF2TcOgupEFj1MdZyc_tWK_F1-KENOruo/s320/Ecard+kid.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This happens to me too often....</td></tr>
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</li>
<li><b> Culture of snippiness</b>. Stemming back to the "family programming," I often hear husbands and wives sniping at each other in front of the children. It's <i>fine</i> to disagree in front of the kids- it's <i>not</i> o.k. to constantly disrespect your spouse in front of them. Teaching your children to resolve conflicts in a respectful way is a wonderful skill to give them. If you are constantly degrading each other, the children will learn that too. As the children get older, they will mimic that same lack of respect in their tone and obedience. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhbgQtxlx3eo2NZTV0ELEKk_1_4mkKkdKM21Vn4O45Y9FrLZSrOAwGnNMsEYpJwkZPCdxpIyAEJ2Ls9NlW6waBlZILgFSoygCxMFl9ulOKPsnavUuS8I_WN2XYEp6g6BpvK7_jzxepDc/s1600/quote.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhbgQtxlx3eo2NZTV0ELEKk_1_4mkKkdKM21Vn4O45Y9FrLZSrOAwGnNMsEYpJwkZPCdxpIyAEJ2Ls9NlW6waBlZILgFSoygCxMFl9ulOKPsnavUuS8I_WN2XYEp6g6BpvK7_jzxepDc/s320/quote.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Especially true with parents. </td></tr>
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</li>
</ul>
Create a culture of respect in your home- from being polite to each other to surrounding your kids with positive role models in books, movies and TV. Be very aware of how this culture will later shape how your children will respond to you in their more "tricky" teenage years. Learn to handle their outbursts, talking back, and frustrations- you are bigger than they are now.... use that advantage!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzSUXw22E1PdPy0LL_RR-mFb-K9rS2dNMAsET3wzsIYaxNF68G2naW_Wxzw9nuH-K_pHrQI_r7VR_iVxIEYcuME9c8KBAcNQqk-Lt7pOfqSUrg4z8B053Mq3riv8FTnN1CZNDjNSmuwk/s1600/ecard+parent2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzSUXw22E1PdPy0LL_RR-mFb-K9rS2dNMAsET3wzsIYaxNF68G2naW_Wxzw9nuH-K_pHrQI_r7VR_iVxIEYcuME9c8KBAcNQqk-Lt7pOfqSUrg4z8B053Mq3riv8FTnN1CZNDjNSmuwk/s1600/ecard+parent2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
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And you know you may have over-used a parenting strategy when this conversation was overheard in the shower:<br />
<span style="color: purple;"><br /><b>"Don't complain about the water!" Said Lissie</b></span><br />
<b><span style="color: purple;">"Why?" Grace said.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: purple;">"Mommy will come in here and tell us about the children in Africa who have to bathe in mud puddles!"</span></b><br />
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Easy Rule #45445- Let your kids tantrum in public. Most people will smile knowingly that you are willing to "stick to your guns." And who cares about the other people who are judging you.<br />
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Easy Rule #34234- No parents are perfect, but stay strong- every effort is worth it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYNhbUu0jb5MDJwlqqswENw1nLo4UoXQFRL_wKyfbSG7FU7NdPzAXWDt4NkAODCfURcR7kfdK-kNZvo9Zy7HwbTeYCjrqXdsJz0F-qomJANFCXp-UIosNc8BAa67wzdd1QeG1f6Z9FDE0/s1600/ecard+laundry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYNhbUu0jb5MDJwlqqswENw1nLo4UoXQFRL_wKyfbSG7FU7NdPzAXWDt4NkAODCfURcR7kfdK-kNZvo9Zy7HwbTeYCjrqXdsJz0F-qomJANFCXp-UIosNc8BAa67wzdd1QeG1f6Z9FDE0/s320/ecard+laundry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bonus---<br />
<br />Here's a little Frozen bonus that Grace is INSISTING that I put on the blog... only for those of you who actually read the blog posts to the end shall enjoy....<br />
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/GdTltR_ugLE/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GdTltR_ugLE?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-20218803645502539782015-10-02T12:39:00.004-07:002015-10-02T12:39:56.928-07:00Finding a Balance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Jules here-<br />
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOitHQFAaaFzn_AHD7blhH9zDZVAlDmXCCuPAnLewteJ9RSn-GGLiLQnVid0EWGoNoHwS3yrczZPZHAi7o-OGhFLyWoXqSm2kkXavx6KLQxKbxIgtsRtgLWdqKWuNkrIG3ThCfWbyyioA/s1600/Counter+kids.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOitHQFAaaFzn_AHD7blhH9zDZVAlDmXCCuPAnLewteJ9RSn-GGLiLQnVid0EWGoNoHwS3yrczZPZHAi7o-OGhFLyWoXqSm2kkXavx6KLQxKbxIgtsRtgLWdqKWuNkrIG3ThCfWbyyioA/s320/Counter+kids.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milkshakes after surviving another week :)</td></tr>
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I know I just posted a couple of weeks ago about how <a href="http://www.easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/08/whats-working-whats-not.html" target="_blank"><i>I </i>am surviving </a>the start of "real school", but I wanted to focus a bit on how <i>my girls</i> are surviving this massive life change. First, as a mother AND an occupational therapist I have a unique perspective on school. On one hand, I love that my children are getting the structure and routine of the academic world. My children have to learn how to sit still, follow multi-step directions, and attend to a variety of tasks-- which are all KEY to surviving in the workplace in the future. <i>However,</i> as an O.T. I understand child-development- and much of the school day is often <i>too</i> structured for a child to experience the proper developmental milestones in a natural way. Plus, if a grown up can't sit through a half-hour meeting without getting 'spacey' how do we expect children to focus for so long? <a href="http://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy/Patients-Clients/ChildrenAndYouth/Play.aspx" target="_blank">Play is a child's <i>job</i></a>. That is how human development works....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhavrT-PRvtVrLgwbEQho1WoOLR3D8E77HaRNYCOZ-uNaXgCKz4XF6zGvmHuiymgx_p2JpC_Ll86CO74DcmmLpQ73i4VRGnsBA7qJkPuvyKokk9OXeVZmv4xzFYxjG5ikw3VW_ahMR4I/s1600/African+image.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhavrT-PRvtVrLgwbEQho1WoOLR3D8E77HaRNYCOZ-uNaXgCKz4XF6zGvmHuiymgx_p2JpC_Ll86CO74DcmmLpQ73i4VRGnsBA7qJkPuvyKokk9OXeVZmv4xzFYxjG5ikw3VW_ahMR4I/s320/African+image.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Controversial but interesting perspective!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Though Grace is doing well academically, she is overwhelmed with the rigidity of the classroom experience. For example, Grace said, "I love art class, but you have to make what <i>she</i> says, not what I want to make!" Is that defiance or is it simply creativity? After Kindergarten, it's rare that a child has a chance to have any "free expression" time through art, writing, or music. I think certain children might need a bit of a creative outlet without the structure- sort of like recess for the mind.<br />
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I am trying to find a balance for her- I am setting up more unstructured crafting for her- paint, glitter, sequins, etc.- so she can explore a bit after school. So far, she has made several Christmas presents and she looks forward to that time each day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvpiDDHslrqkazGOdIPu_wnoZrrhNZw8HPNhnaEd3vBrPGvD0F2yPlwXu0SFNhv5VT78odU6qlHfDR-aWvNhIDdbDhxJOFxTLyIrtE39Ub2E5WaNUSdDliLI2k4YlVdFdC1ERqtdqidk/s1600/craft+supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvpiDDHslrqkazGOdIPu_wnoZrrhNZw8HPNhnaEd3vBrPGvD0F2yPlwXu0SFNhv5VT78odU6qlHfDR-aWvNhIDdbDhxJOFxTLyIrtE39Ub2E5WaNUSdDliLI2k4YlVdFdC1ERqtdqidk/s320/craft+supplies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I also find reasons for mini-celebrations- such as our Half-Birthday parties. Luckily, my girls are born five days apart so I can save half the cake.... I gave Grace the icing, sprinkles and food dye so she could dabble at the bakery arts for an hour.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVi8JZ9_wggw_ElXzAS-4tBKdlAeYDgiMWV2_lnJrsf7kjryN048gS91-ioNCVMOUD13wZK0vzsnth8uU1E8bSpmiIE7etTdlM2PWD3iYBfJ9Cj9_kt3LXUV5HDMAu956Ljn6pGABk8IE/s1600/Felicity+half+birthday.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVi8JZ9_wggw_ElXzAS-4tBKdlAeYDgiMWV2_lnJrsf7kjryN048gS91-ioNCVMOUD13wZK0vzsnth8uU1E8bSpmiIE7etTdlM2PWD3iYBfJ9Cj9_kt3LXUV5HDMAu956Ljn6pGABk8IE/s320/Felicity+half+birthday.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy half birthday cake!</td></tr>
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Recess is fantastic for giving the children outdoor time and the gross motor/vestibular stimulation that children need- but, I would still recommend encouraging that wild, upside-down play their bodies crave when they get home. From climbing mountains to hanging on the monkey bars, I challenge my kids to get moving when they get home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg5DVeYPNjhQaJoJDf2pCTWQrGMySOvTbMu8a-D4aYAUqXrevnBzgsBeAACQChwj0SVCzHp0yy-U_tZIz_ev-Ll0lZV0HX6Ymk2D8p7iuy99a5NrjjgeYejKFvbpKUzEt63SuVKsRUPk/s1600/Jumping+lissie.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg5DVeYPNjhQaJoJDf2pCTWQrGMySOvTbMu8a-D4aYAUqXrevnBzgsBeAACQChwj0SVCzHp0yy-U_tZIz_ev-Ll0lZV0HX6Ymk2D8p7iuy99a5NrjjgeYejKFvbpKUzEt63SuVKsRUPk/s320/Jumping+lissie.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hay jumping!</td></tr>
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Does she love school? Nope. Is she surviving? Yup. We are still adjusting and every week is a challenge. I love that she has friends and she enjoys music and art- those are areas that homeschooling often doesn't provide as well. I miss the freedom to explore topics that interested us but I am glad someone else has to force her to do daily math... I can definitely see the perks in both lifestyles.<br />
<br />Easy Rule #54354- Sometimes your work can help your home life- I am blessed to have a career that complements my parenthood.<br />
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Easy Rule #7897- When life stresses you out, bake a cake. Or just half of one. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkf2kZII2ZQ16XlApI9YB846-8_00rMzxz7hnnHGU3ydeEJ1blBg2JfE74D7nvBTPs6h2MUNZeuXvBqacZ6GsNC0cZzO0qPO3yWeRssjQudwWmUjZY75xp06pxdjgYq7FJ-wl23BmPwLE/s1600/Grace%2527s+half+birthday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkf2kZII2ZQ16XlApI9YB846-8_00rMzxz7hnnHGU3ydeEJ1blBg2JfE74D7nvBTPs6h2MUNZeuXvBqacZ6GsNC0cZzO0qPO3yWeRssjQudwWmUjZY75xp06pxdjgYq7FJ-wl23BmPwLE/s320/Grace%2527s+half+birthday2.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to eat!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTPqntyZWlXA5e_XANt5v7z3KfIA2iq_O19OkZ0YFA8GHh8xS57gGhrB1ayz1-uwQFR-CGqVl-JK5BFtr2JlGni46J4Z1ER7mS9TQMAf-2KaQ7Umph1dCBNXCrYdPEhdU_G7hnszhWxk/s1600/Grace%2527s++half+birthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTPqntyZWlXA5e_XANt5v7z3KfIA2iq_O19OkZ0YFA8GHh8xS57gGhrB1ayz1-uwQFR-CGqVl-JK5BFtr2JlGni46J4Z1ER7mS9TQMAf-2KaQ7Umph1dCBNXCrYdPEhdU_G7hnszhWxk/s320/Grace%2527s++half+birthday.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy!</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-15224477373852115132015-09-23T18:39:00.002-07:002015-09-23T18:39:47.977-07:00Two Year Anniversary!Hi all!!<br />
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It has been 2 years since we started this endeavor-- and though our tagline still reads "Ten children" and Gemma topped us at <i>eleven</i>-- we are still two sisters writing this blog (though Ems feels insanely guilty for not posting more...)!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieK6cECUfL_MYkYUhr8Z-7e5gdD_26AJSCJkxCnpnhwH_19eVM3mjBLndZNu-AVTTDujcx5xuznapQ-p5gCw4XTnH4fZXtU3KYvBKL34XNNarZfHVwDmUoIzQPgnEquZIrFjQuNCyuUgc/s1600/90-+Cousin+crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieK6cECUfL_MYkYUhr8Z-7e5gdD_26AJSCJkxCnpnhwH_19eVM3mjBLndZNu-AVTTDujcx5xuznapQ-p5gCw4XTnH4fZXtU3KYvBKL34XNNarZfHVwDmUoIzQPgnEquZIrFjQuNCyuUgc/s320/90-+Cousin+crew.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our eleven kiddos- plus cousin Charlie too :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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So, as the tradition of<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2014/09/celebrating-our-one-year-anniversary.html" target="_blank"> <i>last</i> anniversary</a>, here are our <b>TOP TEN</b> most popular/read blog posts this year:<br />
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#10 Blog Post of the year is my review of the <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/06/buy-this-not-that-dollar-tree.html" target="_blank">Dollar Tree products</a> that I use- and that I DON'T use...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJz1AO9xoG5lHU82FoDMBjMGBn9l_qGxBXAdYK537a3BfartSCXjUSN-9FrbewKnP3x6E4ioyBNRmazxVzZZzbWsji9n_5dPPmS0W1GBH5ZRM1kNZ4BF0-PQGkg2RZN8TztEwq24rJplE/s1600/7-+Craft+supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJz1AO9xoG5lHU82FoDMBjMGBn9l_qGxBXAdYK537a3BfartSCXjUSN-9FrbewKnP3x6E4ioyBNRmazxVzZZzbWsji9n_5dPPmS0W1GBH5ZRM1kNZ4BF0-PQGkg2RZN8TztEwq24rJplE/s320/7-+Craft+supplies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/06/buy-this-not-that-dollar-tree.html" target="_blank">Ah the dollar store craft section....</a></td></tr>
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Our #9 most-read post is my admission that I<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/07/encouraging-your-child-to-dream-and.html" target="_blank"> have a tendency to dissuade my own children</a> a bit in every day life... So far, they still are somewhat confident children :) I also encourage them to dream!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4OKuziEcR13sk8sCXVYfU846HDFgQRZLggbEasTbe_CI5BvlThQHqxbKkuCiz5V_d_C6KSce2eQ70xWed8Bu-84g9KRwkD1GEL5qbNKJVLpKc_AFF-3rJMWZjYvK8zj8iWShNjbmkVLk/s1600/Three+kids+dock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4OKuziEcR13sk8sCXVYfU846HDFgQRZLggbEasTbe_CI5BvlThQHqxbKkuCiz5V_d_C6KSce2eQ70xWed8Bu-84g9KRwkD1GEL5qbNKJVLpKc_AFF-3rJMWZjYvK8zj8iWShNjbmkVLk/s320/Three+kids+dock.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/07/encouraging-your-child-to-dream-and.html" target="_blank">My little dreamers....</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Our #8 most popular post is the<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/06/jules-here-i-would-like-to-pass-on-some.html" target="_blank"> random lessons I learned one week</a>.... Still relevant today :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRDu5TQ-5KdRt3s1XwN3_eA21OomOSdBbR7gS6GnKRj85Cx-PKiqNcNw88E_Tyc2VsbRUKjZcZSqrdzR6agPDcfC6z3F2Uj-78J6g3-azC_s2pq5bjEkRs1KsLcD4nNHPIxzeesUozEpw/s1600/Face+paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRDu5TQ-5KdRt3s1XwN3_eA21OomOSdBbR7gS6GnKRj85Cx-PKiqNcNw88E_Tyc2VsbRUKjZcZSqrdzR6agPDcfC6z3F2Uj-78J6g3-azC_s2pq5bjEkRs1KsLcD4nNHPIxzeesUozEpw/s320/Face+paint.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/06/jules-here-i-would-like-to-pass-on-some.html" target="_blank">Silly Day!! I think we are due for one!!</a></td></tr>
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Our #7 Blog post was my sum up on the start of <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/04/monthly-review-and-few-favorites.html" target="_blank">my new home renovations</a> (that were not going so well).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr94aikSZN6zMIpTulDPIDLETql76uOqyD9LJS-_2zmvuy_16B5hq_Dio8WvmFrmkGCNztMARs_CI7Q1T68w2njv2WhCGITOCVWn1pcEnvv7dQ37HAQdoZV7J84L1vbXcNqe7ucMuzbc/s1600/P1060298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr94aikSZN6zMIpTulDPIDLETql76uOqyD9LJS-_2zmvuy_16B5hq_Dio8WvmFrmkGCNztMARs_CI7Q1T68w2njv2WhCGITOCVWn1pcEnvv7dQ37HAQdoZV7J84L1vbXcNqe7ucMuzbc/s320/P1060298.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/04/monthly-review-and-few-favorites.html" target="_blank">I am SOOO glad I don't have any more wall paper in my house...</a></td></tr>
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Our #6 Post captured the photographic evidence of my journey through painting and re-doing a 1900s home.... <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/04/trading-spaces-jules-style.html" target="_blank">Trading Spaces- Jules Style</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqG_XVhf1ZObYJ6qxyNFhkOG00FaV_NMMD-KLsEoKAyZPuxZGV2EDW6iQIUtqiNQEyAJ4qIQZfGAWUh-xdTqaLirbvQTuceISfDSx_AtCJuYPjCz2RpnRNvQ_Z1O7I7nAdLD3mIYKWgI/s1600/Mudroom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqG_XVhf1ZObYJ6qxyNFhkOG00FaV_NMMD-KLsEoKAyZPuxZGV2EDW6iQIUtqiNQEyAJ4qIQZfGAWUh-xdTqaLirbvQTuceISfDSx_AtCJuYPjCz2RpnRNvQ_Z1O7I7nAdLD3mIYKWgI/s320/Mudroom.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/04/trading-spaces-jules-style.html" target="_blank">I still love my mini-mudroom</a></td></tr>
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Our #5 Post was our combo-post on <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2014/11/top-ten-gifts-for-kids.html" target="_blank">the gifts that we recommend for children</a> at Christmas time! Don't forget to use some of the ideas this year as we near the holiday season....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlGqxhFwwuI4Cvhk045kuuQb1qCpRlDPtbF0uFJpc_q2U2LDr7uGoQscedSxyLYuJV8OFIOUYbGo_Ac4XyoHhzWLdrwZrWHZ1uB35Lwc1Gf8UgWD-B-ifBb3gBrYqgVTjGgL0keFrv1g/s1600/magnatiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlGqxhFwwuI4Cvhk045kuuQb1qCpRlDPtbF0uFJpc_q2U2LDr7uGoQscedSxyLYuJV8OFIOUYbGo_Ac4XyoHhzWLdrwZrWHZ1uB35Lwc1Gf8UgWD-B-ifBb3gBrYqgVTjGgL0keFrv1g/s320/magnatiles.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2014/11/top-ten-gifts-for-kids.html" target="_blank">Magnatiles- still using them... :)</a></td></tr>
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Our #4 Blog post was Em's wonderful take on <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/01/mommy-shaming-nursery-or-not.html" target="_blank">Mommy Shaming</a>. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgQAxbE6RYursvRiy8jcGr1hth82CqM0cED1tBToNrQpZlXhHv0-DHlbxbGrLL7oEGHRNpz4IARvU4xq55TpIWLRz_qaHp0lf5yEGoyzx7vqvmK4_2hXy6uBiIGaAfRP-vZI2nCl0nEw/s1600/Simona+%2526+Gabe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgQAxbE6RYursvRiy8jcGr1hth82CqM0cED1tBToNrQpZlXhHv0-DHlbxbGrLL7oEGHRNpz4IARvU4xq55TpIWLRz_qaHp0lf5yEGoyzx7vqvmK4_2hXy6uBiIGaAfRP-vZI2nCl0nEw/s320/Simona+%2526+Gabe.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nutella for dinner- why not??</td></tr>
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Our #3 Most popular blog posting was the <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/02/one-more-blessing-to-rejoice-in.html" target="_blank">announcement of baby Gemma </a>and my take on the welcoming of new life!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZainVeYBCA7uIhA3QbgiKzkKQQhL_zdo0ng5sdJd0iuj7etz6HduVS53ouwWsas95MWfTlen9cZou1lPtR0R-yGB9o9J8HyFEdCc6L2Xje4DNZGUXY0hG4OlxadkIygu8dP7KCKXaWw/s1600/THe+Loot+Crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZainVeYBCA7uIhA3QbgiKzkKQQhL_zdo0ng5sdJd0iuj7etz6HduVS53ouwWsas95MWfTlen9cZou1lPtR0R-yGB9o9J8HyFEdCc6L2Xje4DNZGUXY0hG4OlxadkIygu8dP7KCKXaWw/s320/THe+Loot+Crew.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/02/one-more-blessing-to-rejoice-in.html" target="_blank">Still missing one kiddo... :)</a></td></tr>
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Our # 2 Most read entry wasn't even written by Ems OR Jules-- but the awesome Brian! <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/03/guest-post-hubby-style.html" target="_blank">His "Hubby Style"</a> post was sweet, heartfelt, and quite entertaining too :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Q0gu8yaV02IQfUNwOz85W6JjqGkpbb1DxN34kfoLBGagsb-HFCIQxGXVbjQD02bze-mYvNxGUVyNhhWJJpb4JckUJV-okZSL6KJhjOwexokm-5s_2DFIH5y8bdKpWYQH4AZvn-WPMnA/s1600/Jojo+%2526+Gemma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Q0gu8yaV02IQfUNwOz85W6JjqGkpbb1DxN34kfoLBGagsb-HFCIQxGXVbjQD02bze-mYvNxGUVyNhhWJJpb4JckUJV-okZSL6KJhjOwexokm-5s_2DFIH5y8bdKpWYQH4AZvn-WPMnA/s320/Jojo+%2526+Gemma.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sweet sisters!</td></tr>
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Our #1 Most Popular Blog Post is..... <a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2014/10/it.html" target="_blank">Em's announcement that </a>she was having a girl:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlavSv4dNd1JMLUYLmtkMds5DC4rfczXwNRrK0nUp9ClXJUSMKGibSZXsVlNeoSo164bBR5XyOaw5ReDzBAt2_TnzBrmkAhisHXyaOBhklEWapLU5AxEXHG5tQrT38W_vrpsbNRsMNck/s1600/Gemma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlavSv4dNd1JMLUYLmtkMds5DC4rfczXwNRrK0nUp9ClXJUSMKGibSZXsVlNeoSo164bBR5XyOaw5ReDzBAt2_TnzBrmkAhisHXyaOBhklEWapLU5AxEXHG5tQrT38W_vrpsbNRsMNck/s320/Gemma.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little precious Gemma! Super popular even before she was born...<a href="http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/02/one-more-blessing-to-rejoice-in.html" target="_blank">http://easyrules123.blogspot.com/2015/02/one-more-blessing-to-rejoice-in.html</a><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> Hope you all continue to read, enjoy, and share our blog! I have some new goals for this year with posting- so wish us luck on our fun endeavor! Remember, if you have any blog ideas, please comment or email- we love suggestions!<br /><br />Easy Rule #2321-Even if you aren't meeting all of your goals, keep at it! Though we don't post as much as we would like- it's still cathartic to express oneself even infrequently.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Easy Rule #32- Having people actually READ your blog is fantastic :) Thanks!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-39988661421785487252015-09-10T19:32:00.000-07:002015-09-10T19:32:04.254-07:00The Start of Real SchoolJules here:<br />
<br />
My two eldest have been in "real school' for seven days now- which means I am a <b>complete </b>expert on the subject. Seriously though, I am still in the "learning curve" of having children attend a regular school. Besides the emotional adjustments- more tears from mommy than the kiddos- the logistical changes have been slightly overwhelming. With homeschooling, I have never had to "make them presentable" by breakfast, pack lunches, and coordinate drop offs/pick up times. Whew. I have done a few things that are helping me stay a bit more sane with all the chaos of this new regime...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkrxyUQvTUgYUa07Ozql_LDMy1nHIt_CgJjXLepSHDOGxzjPFZbqzcr-M9hcuNKcImloZHEdIRpRLxjvmyoafGVUu3gyU2IRD60WE550fW7SUkuThSBapvJfiiA5BoatZZxSMsYqmuH0/s1600/Sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkrxyUQvTUgYUa07Ozql_LDMy1nHIt_CgJjXLepSHDOGxzjPFZbqzcr-M9hcuNKcImloZHEdIRpRLxjvmyoafGVUu3gyU2IRD60WE550fW7SUkuThSBapvJfiiA5BoatZZxSMsYqmuH0/s320/Sunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good bye summer- Hello School!</td></tr>
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<br />
<ul>
<li> <b>Paperwork</b>- I was <i>amazed</i> with the amount of paperwork for the start of the school year. From emergency cards to lunch choices- I was completely overwhelmed. And when the school year started- it kept coming, and coming. From "Friday Folders" with mailers in my mailbox, I had to get organized fast. I quickly made up a "School Information" folder in my home center and a "Complete & Return" folder so I knew to bring it BACK to the school. I often get questioned on the difficulty of homeschooling- and quite frankly I found the paperwork/decisions for "regular" school to be more challenging....<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img class="irc_mi" height="343" src="http://a.dilcdn.com/bl/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2013/09/Screen-shot-2013-09-11-at-6.11.44-PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 40px;" width="375" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the folders</td></tr>
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</li>
<li><b>Routine-</b> This week we have had the HOTTEST weather we have had ALL summer (I have made it all summer with out installing my AC)... and, for our readers who are NOT in New England- schools do not come equipped with A.C. The children were little uniformed-sweat-dripping-messes when I picked them up; of course, they begged to got to the beach <i>every single day</i> after school. Did I acquiesce? YES! I was hot too. But, I must say playing at the beach for two hours, cooking dinner, making lunches, doing homework, etc. etc. etc.... was a bit much each night. Blessedly, tonight the weather changed, and we were unable to go to the beach today... and it was <i>so much better.</i> I was able to enjoy dinner and our conversations rather than rush them through to get homework done. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEf172iun6HefKyuAP3UlDVYvVF7c7FexGqRwhQkPXtJoDn7sjoISACdzmS-ZjHrRBzgIqHsOCU0BsJhQCl58afVXn3AHTmToBrAjF9zKpLKgIIu2ox6dpLMivs_1Ift_toMcY0YJyAQs/s1600/Grace+Frosty.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEf172iun6HefKyuAP3UlDVYvVF7c7FexGqRwhQkPXtJoDn7sjoISACdzmS-ZjHrRBzgIqHsOCU0BsJhQCl58afVXn3AHTmToBrAjF9zKpLKgIIu2ox6dpLMivs_1Ift_toMcY0YJyAQs/s320/Grace+Frosty.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frosty after Hot day!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCct8Aqon6LdNB2WrqGhA1vyFo10ZdpPa6KDmtAKqx8SiO_5JGxZ-n4Hayg2XQyQF9Yj_Fl7zEuTGzLSUgZgdqZDZVAnmX0Bt8J-djiIMMXBg0glYq0-WZCghGCCxEbWbii8bOt4DZXXI/s1600/Lissie+Frostie.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCct8Aqon6LdNB2WrqGhA1vyFo10ZdpPa6KDmtAKqx8SiO_5JGxZ-n4Hayg2XQyQF9Yj_Fl7zEuTGzLSUgZgdqZDZVAnmX0Bt8J-djiIMMXBg0glYq0-WZCghGCCxEbWbii8bOt4DZXXI/s320/Lissie+Frostie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy!</td></tr>
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</li>
<li><b>Sleep Schedule-</b> Along with a simple routine for meals, my children have been strung-out tired this week. Our normal routine had been "summer-ized" with late nights every night. I have been slowly making bed time earlier so they will get enough rest, and I will get some too :) <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img class="irc_mi" src="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5109a7bee4b000ead7df669b/t/51294688e4b0fd698ebf34ca/1361659529052/Sleep+Needs.jpg" height="184" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleep chart for how much sleep they need!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Free Play</b>- From an OT standpoint, having kids be in a scheduled, rigid day of school can definitely wind them up. After school, kids need to have free play, exercise, and major "brain breaks". My children run the gamut from exhaustion to hyperactivity each day. I try to give them fewer chores, more time to choose their own activities, and I encourage sibling re-bonding. I am <i>really</i> glad my kids aren't in lessons, sports, and more every day. I am a big proponent on allowing the kids imaginative play and free time to create. We are definitely NOT an over-scheduled family. Though I know we plan on doing some sports and piano lessons, etc, I am going to attempt not to over-lap the activities so the kids still have plenty of down time. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeB0EdzbsR-J3wsPVn2l2xKyxUBCPgDmmLAZdC_02ElenUJ58j78SYH19foWMjfqcX2KgoNlygComS_b-6nrQfKA3jrPzsbY7dUlLPwObyVbTObvPemQOwilNmN903A7o1iCQVX6o3F4/s1600/Tire+swing+time.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeB0EdzbsR-J3wsPVn2l2xKyxUBCPgDmmLAZdC_02ElenUJ58j78SYH19foWMjfqcX2KgoNlygComS_b-6nrQfKA3jrPzsbY7dUlLPwObyVbTObvPemQOwilNmN903A7o1iCQVX6o3F4/s320/Tire+swing+time.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting in some vestibular action with Delaware cousins!</td></tr>
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<b></b></li>
<li><b>Lunches</b>- After scouring Pinterest, I have come to the conclusion that I am not a shape-lunch guru for every day school lunches. Some of the parents out there must have A LOT of free time.... however, I do love my bento-style box for the kids lunches. Every day I do attempt to pack well-rounded meal for the girls: fruit, vegetable, grain and protein. Sounds healthful, right? Well, Lissie favors bologna so I do give her that processed meat too :) Grace prefers the hummus with veggies. It took a few days to master how much the children would actually eat. I also give them water bottles each day rather than purchase milk or have juice.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZ9VAvxaU8sewXeF2PBr3A9lef37Hjfx_PRrKZ3XpfDtdkp9Wq_jVX-LvVP5PwKPhijrcsLNoG3GEVjQVW4MmTy5wrXqn-0tVTSTJmqQJBhPUrZLCxIlDODiIlcXkCkoFLEMS69WnLdI/s1600/Lunchable.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZ9VAvxaU8sewXeF2PBr3A9lef37Hjfx_PRrKZ3XpfDtdkp9Wq_jVX-LvVP5PwKPhijrcsLNoG3GEVjQVW4MmTy5wrXqn-0tVTSTJmqQJBhPUrZLCxIlDODiIlcXkCkoFLEMS69WnLdI/s320/Lunchable.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmmm.... :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Meal Planning-</b> With my working days and the children's school days, meal planning is critical to my grocery shopping and food management. On Wednesday, I have a very long day with the children in after-care at the school. By the time we get home, I am way too tired to figure out food. This week, by 7 AM I had breakfast (baked French toast), lunch (packed), and dinner (crock pot) all completed for the day! I created a <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/julianh/crockpot-dinners/" target="_blank">pinterest board for crockpot meals</a>, as I plan on doing 1-2 meals a week this method.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img class="irc_mi" height="371" src="http://www.seriouseats.com/images/20091015crockpot.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 26px;" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-left: 80px;">
I made honey garlic chicken thighs. Yum.</div>
<div style="margin-left: 80px;">
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</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Forget "ME" Time- </b>I know, all the websites and self-help books tout "Mommy "ME" Time" so why am I denying such a blissful need? Well, when I <i>plan</i> for downtime, and I don't <i>get it</i> I am more often not a very nice mommy.... For example, I was <i>exhausted</i> last Wednesday night, and by the time I wrestled the kids into bed at 8:30 PM, I came down to Netflix and finish up my work notes- when out ambled a little anxiety-ridden 7 year old.... and she wanted to talk. I was more impatient than I should have been; I was not as caring as I could have been; and honestly, I wasn't the mom that I wanted to be. So instead of <i>expecting</i> down time, just be grateful when you get it. My children were pooped tonight- we had plenty of time to connect, discuss, and enjoy our time when we got home. The kids seem more mentally-ready for an earlier bedtime. I got to Netflix TWO TV shows as I slowly-type this blog. I am incredibly grateful for this moment- but I also would have been able to sacrifice it for the sake of my children in a heartbeat. I am appreciative but not demanding about my space/needs. That seems self-sacrificing, but in reality, it makes me (and the kids) happier. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_E33ZAHReLRZWVefcjCbCIq4iw9EY_OCOUeEFySilTZiNcVZhw1l81ZbwTB1u_bTlQaZCMRw-rNlECy_nnTCqHDo2uWTGDrry1Wn9dZ8S52_rj9q-KDD1rcZkKRcgPBxrGRfsxguWNak/s1600/Planking+James.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_E33ZAHReLRZWVefcjCbCIq4iw9EY_OCOUeEFySilTZiNcVZhw1l81ZbwTB1u_bTlQaZCMRw-rNlECy_nnTCqHDo2uWTGDrry1Wn9dZ8S52_rj9q-KDD1rcZkKRcgPBxrGRfsxguWNak/s320/Planking+James.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If kids don't behave, they plank. Just kidding- we are doing a plank challenge... 10 seconds added each day. We are up to 90 seconds.... wish us luck!</td></tr>
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</li>
</ul>
And to prove my point, this is the exact conversation I had with James while I was in the shower:<br />
<br />
<i>Knock Knock</i><br />
"Who is it?" asks me in the shower.<br />
<i>"</i>James." And he just walks in the bathroom.<br />
"What is it James? I put you in bed already."<br />
"Um... I just have a question" (he ALWAYS has a question at bed time).<br />
"Yes?"<br />
"Why do you always shower at night after bed time?" he asked.<br />
"Because Mommy likes a nice, quiet shower so I can have some privacy and peace." I said.<br />
"But Mommy, I am in here right now! It's not quiet!" He so brilliantly pointed out.<br />
"Exactly. Now go to bed."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFY0Z1RIqi2g7Ol_qSEwcoDmvzaox3CRQm9BBQy90jB-pNUJ8OZWbvf9hQxYNaWA6wQWyy8z3iRLoW8ckugNFk3lfHu1QtB7Eaw8oniy8uqujJV0cnd0FPA_Yl2ebYLYxkVZuv6hNCmP8/s1600/Grace+at+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFY0Z1RIqi2g7Ol_qSEwcoDmvzaox3CRQm9BBQy90jB-pNUJ8OZWbvf9hQxYNaWA6wQWyy8z3iRLoW8ckugNFk3lfHu1QtB7Eaw8oniy8uqujJV0cnd0FPA_Yl2ebYLYxkVZuv6hNCmP8/s320/Grace+at+beach.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grace swimming at the beach after school!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6N-f7RgutKf_B72OiZ7sLVqPr9kmuotsWtGoW-2pR1j7hZrXYtHRwewsGjd2Uj9Z8idjAIYCsPt62N-isgj7XXDWvklY7H8oe27e_OEiWdW5yE4sjR_j96M3UGSSpaUiH-L67csq5PY/s1600/Beach+fatigue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6N-f7RgutKf_B72OiZ7sLVqPr9kmuotsWtGoW-2pR1j7hZrXYtHRwewsGjd2Uj9Z8idjAIYCsPt62N-isgj7XXDWvklY7H8oe27e_OEiWdW5yE4sjR_j96M3UGSSpaUiH-L67csq5PY/s320/Beach+fatigue.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And Lissie crashing at the beach after school...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><b>Can't do it all-</b> Biggest thing I am learning- I am not a superwoman. I look at the parents who work full-time, manage the children, and run the household and I am in awe. I know I need at least one day to catch up on chores, organization, shopping, and meal planning. I am going to really, really try hard to stick to my minimalistic budget so I don't have to work that extra day in the future. I'd rather be poor and sane. Or really rich with a maid, housekeeper, and chef. Throw in a masseuse too. </li>
</ul>
Easy Rule #22323- Every change in life has challenges, roll with the punches until you find a way to survive.<br />
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Easy Rule #98023- Even when your time is more limited with your children, keep the conversations going. Let them know you will always listen, even when you really don't have the time...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-38611435994672578292015-08-25T20:26:00.005-07:002015-08-26T03:30:30.931-07:00What's Working, What's NotJules here-<br />
<br />
Time for a little self-evaluation to see what things are working in my daily life- and what things aren't.... We have lived in our home for five months now; we have developed daily routines that will soon be changing as school approaches. I plan on tweaking our routine to help me with the crazy school and work transitions.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Little Middle is heading to Kindergarten next week!! AAH!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<b>Daily Chores</b>- <b>Working</b>!!<br />
The kids have been doing really well with making their beds, straightening their room, clearing their plates, brushing their teeth, etc. Even garbage day is going better as they are responsible for emptying the small cans and re-lining them afterwards! No snacks, desserts, or screen time is given unless chores are done.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry
this is so blurry....James is so efficient with chores, that he decided
to do them the night before. Of course, once you are dressed and your
bed is made, the only thing to do is sleep on the floor. I'm a slave
driver. </td></tr>
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<b>Bonus Chores-Working!</b><br />
Grace, in particular, is saving to buy a goat for a child in Africa. We read a touching tale called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beatrices-Goat-Page-McBrier/dp/0689869908/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440559424&sr=8-1&keywords=Beatrice%27s+goat" target="_blank"><u>Beatrice's Goat,</u></a> and the children have saved $34.56 towards the $150 cost of a goat. Through selling homemade potholders, lemonade, and now doing "extra" chores they have earned quite a bit. Grace has reached the age where she likes to earn things and feel independent. Lucky for us (ha ha) we have a WALNUT tree in our yard... and for those of you who don't know... this is what James looks like on walnuts:<br />
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<b> </b> <br />
So, I am paying Grace 5 cents a walnut to gather them up. Now, James won't touch them or ingest them outside, but I also don't want to lawnmower-blast them into the air either...<br />
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<b>Daily Chore Whining- NOT Working!! But starting too....</b><br />
Consistency<i> is</i> paying off and the dramatics, whining, and the "hard-knock life" songs are dwindling; however, I still have to deal with my middle one's dedication to avoidance of work. I have found a recent solution that I have implemented: The Cinderella Project. When my children begin to complain, whine, or shirk their work, I simply refer to them as: Drusilla, the wicked stepsister. I say phrases such as, "Oh, you want your Mommy Cinderella to clear your plates, make your bed, and clean your toys? O.k. Drusilla," or, "You didn't get the plate color that you wanted? Are you going to drop it on the floor and refuse to eat your food, Drusilla?" They are starting to understand how their whining is really making them into Ugly Step-siblings... let's hope the empathy training is working...<br />
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<b>Budgeting-Working!</b><br />
Living frugally is my lifestyle, and though I have had to repair my dryer, get new brakes on the van, and buy an exorbitant amount of school supplies... I have budgeted well! Every week I review my spending and I have a very rigid limit, but I put a "buffer" zone that is really helping. I budgeted over on almost every item to help me pay for the many incidentals of life...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish....</td></tr>
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<b>Saving Receipts: NOT Working!</b><br />
Honestly, I saved receipts for about 3 days until they were littering my already paper-strewn car... I couldn't handle it. I am just no good at keeping track of all the receipts (or even looking at them again). Plus, looking at receipts didn't remind me not to spend either...<br />
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<b> </b><br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>More the Merrier with Kids: Working!</b><br />
This month, I have been blessed to babysit friends and family-- and I had a little taste of what Em's daily life must be like... I had 8 children under 8 years of age for 3+ hours.... LOTS of fun!! Though, I must admit, I would want a bottle for the littlest one next time... I felt really bad that her mommy was dentist-delayed and I just had to hold her without feeding her!! We also had a water fight that escalated....<i>really</i> escalated....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicely reading stories</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Um.... filling a bucket with the water dispenser...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkCR18bLDVmkYvvRuJBZezIo_KeDDwY5kx9JKtZqRyhocLu5ytlUNQ2F6tSzMnWoUwDJuKDGwoFlggQF_ExrGdL-ymlELBAdoUjZRGOCNcPlNl2uQUS9256HZFaeKtNwMlyXy_2ljkPE/s1600/IMG_20150811_144118_196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkCR18bLDVmkYvvRuJBZezIo_KeDDwY5kx9JKtZqRyhocLu5ytlUNQ2F6tSzMnWoUwDJuKDGwoFlggQF_ExrGdL-ymlELBAdoUjZRGOCNcPlNl2uQUS9256HZFaeKtNwMlyXy_2ljkPE/s320/IMG_20150811_144118_196.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying to call Mom to get her away from this crazy place.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After water fight, craft time with new clothes....</td></tr>
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I also got to babysit my darling nephew, Charlie, so his Mommy & Daddy could enjoy one last night out before little Sam arrived this week!! Yes, I am an Aunt again!!! Congrats Aunt Betsy!!!<br />
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And finally... my favorite....<br />
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<b>Hand-me-downs: Working!!</b><br />
Our biggest fan, Chrissy, has her hands full with a precious newborn, but she still managed to package me up beautiful dresses for the girls!! We LOVE Sophie hand-me-downs and they have sustained us for years (see, budgeting is easier when you don't have to buy clothing!!). So before you pack up clothing or ship them to goodwill...see if any friends could benefit! You'd be surprise how much use I get out of clothing!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THANK YOU!!!</td></tr>
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Make sure you take the time to evaluate what's "working" and "not working" in your daily life. Don't throw out your whole plan (budget, exercise, chores, etc.) if one stage isn't working. Re-think, re-organize and try again!!<br />
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Easy Rule #434- It's never too late to start a new regime in your home.<br />
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Easy Rule #43242- If regular discipline doesn't work, use fairy tales to terrify or mock your children. It can really work. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5062934689074247232.post-39580843632892145722015-08-19T04:25:00.000-07:002015-08-19T04:25:50.124-07:00What I Learned on My Summer VacationJules here-<br />
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My two eldest will be attending "real" school this fall and I have two quick weeks until it commences-- AHHH!! Not only am I emotionally freaking out to have my girls gone all day, but the paperwork, school supplies, and scheduling is overwhelming. I am truly taking one day at a time and tackling one chore after another. I am attempting to get meal planning, home organization, and lunch-box planning done prior to the start of the year-- plus I'm squeezing in as much summer fun as possible.<br />
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We have had a truly joyous summer with PLENTY of beach days:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4JQGEeIBr-1BAvL8wB65AhnpkJarpl6SRwyE1LkcCpMOva4M4sAzsK0IjOOi5uIdCTys0JnpjzjTgpbn0IpaQ2dzllXFXNN9sBQf3raTQgT4cUXbSc__XmkcDyuTfoIc6fIq290HMb4/s1600/Lissie+at+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4JQGEeIBr-1BAvL8wB65AhnpkJarpl6SRwyE1LkcCpMOva4M4sAzsK0IjOOi5uIdCTys0JnpjzjTgpbn0IpaQ2dzllXFXNN9sBQf3raTQgT4cUXbSc__XmkcDyuTfoIc6fIq290HMb4/s320/Lissie+at+beach.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<img alt="Displaying IMG_20150808_163557_453.jpg" class="aLF-aPX-J1-J3 aLF-aPX-aLK-ayr-auR" height="400" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=214d9a2f47&view=fimg&th=14f393bd692cc368&attid=0.5&disp=inline&realattid=1509712542814961664-local4&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ_z_foUtBpBoZ5lbD6YiEjM8RWKEuq-H4fECCJ7Jy1QUErtwALxyHxFwbinGPz8rXSTewuAkqHjM9sqtB4ITjDzgGraxaohrbvtkR9mhvlnxHefXsaV4Dhvivc&ats=1439774558351&rm=14f393bd692cc368&zw&sz=w1332-h547" width="225" /><br />
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<b>What did I learn from so many days at the beach? How did I handle so much sand?</b><br />
<ul>
<li> <b>Only pack what you can carry.</b> Though I have accumulated more sand toys than a preschool sandbox, I packed only one bag of toys each day. Each person gets a towel to carry and I carried one small backpack with drinks, snacks, and my "wishful book" (a book that I never opened all summer...) and a small chair. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR65OusfKc-IpgBT2g2Bil0SFRBJbL23nfHKR5tJgkx0KHgf-ONaDA1TAEulwG-AD4eL6rxjkZkaQk9i6fVETy9nkyqzd_a2jGYvya2UiY9A2TJvUCkQ7mjELpI7JT4H05ByiDTBMfrFQ/s1600/IMG_20150803_130556_823.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR65OusfKc-IpgBT2g2Bil0SFRBJbL23nfHKR5tJgkx0KHgf-ONaDA1TAEulwG-AD4eL6rxjkZkaQk9i6fVETy9nkyqzd_a2jGYvya2UiY9A2TJvUCkQ7mjELpI7JT4H05ByiDTBMfrFQ/s320/IMG_20150803_130556_823.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Headed to the big beach one day.</td></tr>
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</li>
<li><b>Sunscreen BEFORE the beach</b>. Yes, I am blessed with a .7 mile drive or walk to our beach, but sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes prior. Plus, you can wash your hands at home to get the excess goo off.</li>
<li><b>Kids play more than eat at the beach.</b> If you pack lunch or dinner, don't go crazy. Twice I made these fantastic meals and the kids were so busy playing that they barely ate it. I hate wasting food, so I usually do small snack-style meals.</li>
</ul>
In New Hampshire, we have probably had 7-10 days since May in the high 80s and uncomfortable 90s with humidity. Even with me moving only a few miles north of where I used to live helped keep the temperatures more moderate. Usually at night the temperatures drop to the low to mid sixties; however, some days (especially this week) the temps have been quite high, even at night. My goal was to make it the entire summer without installing my window unit AC... and I have made it so far.... :)<br />
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<b>How did I survive the uncomfortable high temperatures?</b><br />
<ul>
<li><b>Box window fans are worth the investment.</b> Pulling that cool night air in is key to survival. I put the fans on around 7 PM and it helped take the edge off the stickiness. I have one in each bedroom, and I plan on buying one more to circulate downstairs as well.</li>
<li><b>Keep the "safe" downstairs windows open at night.</b> I don't keep my whole house unsecured, but I have a couple windows in the back that are unreachable for potential burglars that I leave open at night. As soon as I awake in the morning, I circulate the cooler air. </li>
<li><b>Close down the house by 10 AM.</b> I shut all the windows, draw the curtains, and close the doors to keep that cooler night air in the house and the steamy humidity out. My house usually stays below 77 degrees by this method.</li>
<li><b>Open up the house as SOON as temps begin to drop in the evening. </b>Using those fans, get that air circulating.</li>
<li><b>Cool the bodies. </b>On the hottest days, we NEEDED to go the beach, use a sprinkler, or have a water fight. I also gave the kids a cooler bath and shower RIGHT before bed time; I took off any blankets and only left the sheet on their beds as well. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://i00.i.aliimg.com/wsphoto/v0/32242971810_1/Trade-round-home-garden-lawn-watering-font-b-irrigation-b-font-sprinkler-sprinkler-font-b-heads.jpg" height="168" id="yui_3_5_1_2_1439982480726_723" style="height: 506px; width: 600px;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We bought a $1.50 round sprinkler at Wa-Mart that works great! No sharp edges to worry about and the spray is gentle and fun. </td></tr>
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</li>
<li><b>Eat ice cream!! </b>Freeze pops and ice cream became a staple in the afternoon and evening (Side Note- We have the ice cream truck drive by every few days here- Do I spring for the $3.50 PER POP every time? Have you ever read this blog? Of course not... Instead, I told them they could buy one at the beginning of the summer, but every time the truck drives by, they get a "bonus" squeeze pop. This way they still get very excited to see the truck, but I am not spending a fortune...) </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uWg3kSLgGm7JufVGlrZ-RVBYJedZwJ_4S9WQVLAS52G602dRBD7G16i3ljASvyBN1Vtx_ElYC_5hh4CWPPRHVXB38HVSSudt0lFSN74kndst8VN6EqjWlc5lYcScEK1iHT9JKeNSzik/s1600/IMG_20150719_182630_254.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uWg3kSLgGm7JufVGlrZ-RVBYJedZwJ_4S9WQVLAS52G602dRBD7G16i3ljASvyBN1Vtx_ElYC_5hh4CWPPRHVXB38HVSSudt0lFSN74kndst8VN6EqjWlc5lYcScEK1iHT9JKeNSzik/s320/IMG_20150719_182630_254.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On National Ice Cream Day at Friendly's</td></tr>
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Summer goes by quickly, I definitely recommend writing a "Bucket List" for each season. We have crossed off most items on our list:<br />
<ol>
<li style="text-align: center;">Going to the ocean.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Going to at least 3 different Lake beaches.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Go to 5 different playgrounds</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Buy Ice Cream from the Ice Cream Truck</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Go out for Ice Cream</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Have a Lemonade Stand</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Have a camp out</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Roast S'mores</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Go berry picking</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Visit with the cousins</li>
</ol>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Displaying IMG_20150816_111057_982.jpg" class="aLF-aPX-J1-J3 aLF-aPX-aLK-ayr-auR" height="180" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=214d9a2f47&view=fimg&th=14f393bd692cc368&attid=0.3&disp=inline&realattid=1509712542814961664-local2&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ993RHm-fUJgGh1YzOK6TJ5sDnjgBU_ZR6Qyn6pS4u0WQ-K45O7NlZhYT-UQuXITzwG-OcKXRqc3hjDkBAdNFd7w43VQwwM4VrQapVkruxbKDNO1g-op3GU0iA&ats=1439980471313&rm=14f393bd692cc368&zw&sz=w1332-h547" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lemonade Stand!</td></tr>
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Hope you all enjoyed your summer!<br />
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Easy Rule #5435- Don't let the summer slip by without taking the moment to appreciate the hot weather-- we will be missing it very soon...<br />
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Easy Rule #4324- Regular school is a LOT more challenging to prep for than homeschool. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626536004807213527noreply@blogger.com0