tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87978033815303721992024-03-05T16:58:22.325-05:00those nutty nelsons!adventures in our world...as told by mommyJaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.comBlogger270125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-2884929715656606462012-02-21T12:42:00.000-05:002012-02-24T12:52:12.622-05:00Chicken Enchilada Pasta<span style="font-family: inherit;">This was a Pinterest find that, admittedly, looks pretty weird. But, trust me, it is SO GOOD! I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_WNeca9Q0uPk/TNnklbeBlII/AAAAAAAAOA8/WO40If-HEnI/chickenenchiladapasta6_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_WNeca9Q0uPk/TNnklbeBlII/AAAAAAAAOA8/WO40If-HEnI/chickenenchiladapasta6_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="212" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Chicken Enchilada Pasta</u></b></span><br />
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2-3 chicken breasts, cooked & shredded {<em>or shredded rotisserie chicken…I used the breasts</em>}</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tbsp. olive oil</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 garlic cloves, minced</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 medium onion, diced</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 red pepper, diced</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 {4 oz.} can diced green chiles</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 tsp. salt</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tsp. chili powder</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp. cumin</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 {10 oz.} cans green chili enchilada sauce</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2/3 cups red enchilada sauce</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups shredded "mexican" cheese</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup sour cream</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 lb. Penne pasta</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Toppings: Avocado, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Green Onions, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Black Olives, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tomatoes, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sour Cream</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">
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<div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">
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<ol style="color: #333333; line-height: 24px;">
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: -webkit-center;">Cook chicken, drain, and shred {</span><em style="font-family: inherit; text-align: -webkit-center;">or shred your rotisserie</em><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: -webkit-center;">}. Meanwhile boil pasta according to package and chop the veggies.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet and cook onions for about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic & red pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes. </span></span>
<span style="font-size: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;">Add cooked chicken, green chiles, cumin, chili powder, salt, & enchilada sauces. Let sauce simmer for about 8-10 minutes.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Add cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and heated through. Now toss in the sour cream and cook on low heat or the sour cream will curdle. Stir until sour cream is well mixed and heated through.</span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Drain pasta & return to pot. Pour sauce over pasta and mix well. Serve and garnish with avocado, tomato, green onion, and a dollop of sour cream.</span>
</span></span></span></li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">**I also successfully froze half this recipe (it makes a lot!) and it was just as good the second time around! Just make sure to cook your pasta al dente so it isn't too soggy.**</span></span></div>
<br />Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-43233082793335775582012-02-20T08:37:00.000-05:002012-02-24T08:38:23.604-05:00A little privacy please! Cornelia looooves bath time. As soon as dinner is over she pushes back her little chair and says, "Baaa?". Sometimes it's a go, sometimes it's not, but she's always thrilled when the answer is "yes"! <br />
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Now that the kids are getting bigger we've graduated from the toss them all in the tub and get 'er done mentality into some take showers and some take baths. Often times Max and Cornelia will still take a bath together, especially if we are short on time (and we usually are!).<br />
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On this particular night though, Ruby had showered earlier, so Max got to shower in the master bath while Cornelia took her bath as usual. Jared had that girl cleaned up and into her footie pajamas before Max had even gotten soaped up, so she went off exploring while we cleaned up the kitchen and decluttered a bit from the day. All of a sudden we realized that it was a little too quiet so Jared went to find our littlest trouble maker. Imagine his surprise when he found her...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVpGahFjfri_3bDFYpc3rbedn_yMH6Iydh2DuWHVjOaiDxfcBns22rLs01Yn6I9BGpPbPVJWmNln_zfNzaJ00HXIF5IGGgKNvZRtCdbbPfgc-ybizMmkMPtHxqQFo9-pzSwO889mkd5JY/s1600/02.24a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVpGahFjfri_3bDFYpc3rbedn_yMH6Iydh2DuWHVjOaiDxfcBns22rLs01Yn6I9BGpPbPVJWmNln_zfNzaJ00HXIF5IGGgKNvZRtCdbbPfgc-ybizMmkMPtHxqQFo9-pzSwO889mkd5JY/s320/02.24a.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Why Maxwell didn't raise the alarm I'll never understand! I guess he's just so used to bathing with his baby sister that he didn't even pay attention to the little problem of her pjs being on! Silly kids!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oajl5YuhwBfnv8yzmdcKndi4T-6AkuFZEksa8i_DIC-OY78dl6vB_ngkuoqW2LuOrdlvyk3GNb7tstDcdjp4T7gZ6V1xKmATdE0y404_db6EDaSAJFvrdXVhzYNnpp9ggzAeJMXPK50/s1600/02.24b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oajl5YuhwBfnv8yzmdcKndi4T-6AkuFZEksa8i_DIC-OY78dl6vB_ngkuoqW2LuOrdlvyk3GNb7tstDcdjp4T7gZ6V1xKmATdE0y404_db6EDaSAJFvrdXVhzYNnpp9ggzAeJMXPK50/s320/02.24b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-11785643233016587512012-02-06T20:24:00.001-05:002012-02-06T20:24:23.090-05:00Put your game face on!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.amazon.com/images/G/01/toys/detail-page/B000W7JWUA-2-lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/G/01/toys/detail-page/B000W7JWUA-2-lg.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Jared and I have really been getting into playing games again the last few weeks. Our favorite-- Settlers of Catan. Now, yes, we do realize that this is supposed to be a game for three or more players, but it seems to be working just fine with the two of us. I think our tired minds appreciate the relative ease of the two player game! Oh and guess what!? I finally won two in a row yesterday (not that I keep track of that kink of thing--wink, wink)!<br />
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So what's your favorite game for just two players?Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-56031986206487916102012-02-02T20:15:00.000-05:002012-02-06T20:17:20.849-05:00Potty Training!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyF-0nEGR4GUfb1iS1vmGftfg60EdhAhCCnZCbsHfjJ67QkjPx0qVjykj-Uo8UsL2oFf4juoIYFRQEtmIAYwvsZLwxrsEnVaQcBObLNtsBzN9T4gcbpvA0aZn1XsG-kVD8nrTAjKpdFt0/s1600/02.02a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyF-0nEGR4GUfb1iS1vmGftfg60EdhAhCCnZCbsHfjJ67QkjPx0qVjykj-Uo8UsL2oFf4juoIYFRQEtmIAYwvsZLwxrsEnVaQcBObLNtsBzN9T4gcbpvA0aZn1XsG-kVD8nrTAjKpdFt0/s320/02.02a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Guess who thinks she's potty training!? She has been having a ball playing with her potty chair and even had a success with it recently! It may have been by accident, but I still praised the snot out of her so that she really got that it was a BIG DEAL!<br />
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Now Mommy just has to get on board with the whole potty training thing. Yuck.Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-54582352674026927452012-02-01T09:12:00.000-05:002012-02-06T20:11:08.062-05:00Super Fun Playset!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWnXPGZXT-t2F7gBQEZbRa7hCr45mGC5b4a4cO4QGPKLcarn6rBPCCzNLYuArWlTDXAZjLcANQGDgdUyvxOl1BLWChyphenhyphenShFWh0MW3hjmoz2wBM5DhlPdqofaZdSs3l6pj0SHqq9QgBY0o/s1600/02.01a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWnXPGZXT-t2F7gBQEZbRa7hCr45mGC5b4a4cO4QGPKLcarn6rBPCCzNLYuArWlTDXAZjLcANQGDgdUyvxOl1BLWChyphenhyphenShFWh0MW3hjmoz2wBM5DhlPdqofaZdSs3l6pj0SHqq9QgBY0o/s400/02.01a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I mentioned in the birthday post about the play set that Jared built for the kids, so I thought I should finally post a picture of it! It's pretty amazing with a clubhouse, bridge, monkey bars, slide, bucket and pulley, and flower box. The latest addition is a tire swing--whee! Coming soon-- a zip line! It has been a ton of fun, especially through this very mild winter. I sure do have an amazing hubby!<br />
<br />Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-34526537607249508562012-01-31T09:20:00.000-05:002012-02-02T09:21:14.456-05:00Amy's Barbecue Chicken Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/site/allrecipes/area/community/userphoto/big/31794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/site/allrecipes/area/community/userphoto/big/31794.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div class="ingredients" style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><b>Amy's Barbecue Chicken Salad</b></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><br /></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 head red leaf lettuce, rinsed and torn</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 head green leaf lettuce, rinsed and torn</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 fresh tomato, chopped</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 bunch cilantro, chopped</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 (15.25 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 (2.8 ounce) can French fried onions</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1/2 cup Ranch dressing</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1/2 cup barbeque sauce</li>
</ul>
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<div style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 20px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; width: 300px;">
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<div class="directions" style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
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Directions</h3>
<ol style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">Preheat the grill for high heat.</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">Lightly oil the grill grate. Place chicken on the grill, and cook 6 minutes per side, or until juices run clear. Remove from heat, cool, and slice.</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">In a large bowl, mix the red leaf lettuce, green leaf lettuce, tomato, cilantro, corn, and black beans. Top with the grilled chicken slices and French fried onions.</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">In a small bowl, mix the Ranch dressing and barbeque sauce. Serve on the side as a dipping sauce, or toss with the salad to coat.</span></li>
</ol>
</div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-9050945581898068402012-01-30T09:13:00.000-05:002012-02-06T20:01:41.626-05:00Winter Wonderland!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/q_iOS3F6qLc" width="480"></iframe>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-65472838257471501692012-01-26T09:03:00.000-05:002012-02-06T19:57:21.472-05:00MLK Day Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH60F58Z9rUWFT9y_M7aY8fV4dvIF-JLmxrJEQn_NkoWHDmfWcPXKGyaby7LL8Qbwz1vNsCvG7mlB-DgljwXClmu0HkUb-g5flZz8383xiY9xrxOV86Meyzu2F8WLk35g2SahEIPIbmpE/s1600/01.26a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH60F58Z9rUWFT9y_M7aY8fV4dvIF-JLmxrJEQn_NkoWHDmfWcPXKGyaby7LL8Qbwz1vNsCvG7mlB-DgljwXClmu0HkUb-g5flZz8383xiY9xrxOV86Meyzu2F8WLk35g2SahEIPIbmpE/s320/01.26a.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
We had a fun time on our school vacation day and did something we hadn't done in a long time... headed to the Bounce House in Hendersonville. I don't think I have brought the kids here since Cornelia has been walking, so it was a pretty different experience this time.<br />
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Max enjoyed these giant trikes, as did some of the other older boys. It made walking around a little bit scary at times as they speeded around the rather tight space! He also occupied himself by chasing Ruby around screaming, "WOOO-BEEE, SWOW DOWN!" He's not so crazy about her style of play-- running around like crazy from station to station. I guess he's more of a savor the moment kind of guy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxZQM-yLjWNHLZbrGqJasdPB3K4Kr2g9MAg_0Y2_yAJ4Lpww_bZ8n_5Shzf-d3HQJdsYVN2qBOuPnUmapHGLLkKrRTw6DPtzUUChieaCyeUIjpn6wfb1X6xNBSmVSfKa7bnGqs-jWl1k/s1600/01.26b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxZQM-yLjWNHLZbrGqJasdPB3K4Kr2g9MAg_0Y2_yAJ4Lpww_bZ8n_5Shzf-d3HQJdsYVN2qBOuPnUmapHGLLkKrRTw6DPtzUUChieaCyeUIjpn6wfb1X6xNBSmVSfKa7bnGqs-jWl1k/s320/01.26b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Once Cornelia saw the big kids going down the big slide she was pretty sure that she needed to go down too. The only problem was how to get her up. So, I thought, "Oh well, I'll just carry her up. All the other moms are doing it!". That was a mistake! I put my feet on that inflatable and it just collapsed! There I was rolling around on the floor with poor Cornelia and all of these moms came rushing to our aid-- it was SO embarrassing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtXIMPfXsm4oEmCrauFiQV6N0fnsSbjh9av44KiD0v51aWBNF1u-7B-MahE0IeeyyNM7xqwP5XffwV-nCR5WhrT4ZOIEI0tgNjL3apRBWlg2cjlXkLQb02dFKqHMDNeQNFdkNwjjnaiJc/s1600/01.26c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtXIMPfXsm4oEmCrauFiQV6N0fnsSbjh9av44KiD0v51aWBNF1u-7B-MahE0IeeyyNM7xqwP5XffwV-nCR5WhrT4ZOIEI0tgNjL3apRBWlg2cjlXkLQb02dFKqHMDNeQNFdkNwjjnaiJc/s320/01.26c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
After that little debacle I decided she was going to have to go it alone-- and she did! The first couple of times Ruby "helped" her up, but after that she was all on her own and she was a champ about it.<br />
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All in all it was a fun time, even though I did humiliate (and bruise) myself! Good thing these kids are so precious it's worth it.Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-61830457995908484192012-01-24T12:45:00.000-05:002012-01-24T12:46:31.741-05:00Beef Stew and Brown Bread, Yum!<span style="font-family: inherit;">We have had such warm weather that I really haven't been tempted to make delicious warm meals like this, but I thought I'd post anyway for all of my Northern family and friends who <i>can </i>enjoy this on a cold, snowy night. I will warn you that the bread in particular makes a LOT, but it freezes beautifully, so go ahead and make it according to the directions and you'll have it ready to go for a few more meals! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<a href="http://images.media-allrecipes.com//site/allrecipes/area/community/userphoto/big/149380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.media-allrecipes.com//site/allrecipes/area/community/userphoto/big/149380.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Kyle's Favorite Beef Stew</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(from allrecipes.com)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="ingredients" style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 pounds cubed beef stew meat</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 tablespoons olive oil</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4 large potatoes, cubed</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tablespoon dried parsley</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups boiling water</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 (1 ounce) envelopes onion soup mix</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 tablespoons butter</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 large onions, quartered</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tablespoons minced garlic</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup burgundy wine</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 (6 ounce) packages fresh button mushrooms, halved</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup warm water</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 tablespoons cornstarch</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 20px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; width: 300px;">
</div>
<div class="directions" style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<h3 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Directions</span></h3>
<ol style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Toss the beef, flour, and salt in a sealable bag until the beef is coated.</span></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Combine the beef and Worcestershire sauce in the skillet; cook until the beef is evenly browned on all sides; transfer to a slow cooker, but do not clean the skillet. Add the carrots, potatoes, parsley, and pepper to the slow cooker.</span></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Combine the boiling water and soup mix in a small bowl; add to slow cooker.</span></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Melt the butter in the skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the onion and garlic in the melted butter until soft; transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker and return the skillet to the heat. Combine the wine and mushrooms to the skillet; cook until the mushrooms begin to absorb the wine; pour the mixture into the slow cooker.</span></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Place the cover on the slow cooker and set to High; cook for one hour. Reduce heat to Low and cook until the beef is fork-tender, 6 to 8 hours. Whisk together the warm water and cornstarch; stir into the stew; cook uncovered until stew thickens, about 15 minutes.</span></span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://food.sndimg.com/img/recipes/27/28/15/large/pic7xi4kr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://food.sndimg.com/img/recipes/27/28/15/large/pic7xi4kr.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><b><u>Honey-Wheat Bushman Bread</u></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">(from Outback Steakhouse)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1 1/2 cups warm water</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2 tablespoons butter, softened</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 cup honey</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2 cups bread flour, plus extra</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2 cups whole wheat flour</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1 tablespoon cocoa powder</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1 tablespoon sugar</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2 teaspoons instant coffee</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1 teaspoon salt</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2 1/4 teaspoons (1 envelope) active dry yeast</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1 teaspoon caramel food coloring (optional)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">3 tablespoons cornmeal, for dusting</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;">whipped butter, for serving</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><b>Directions</b></span></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><span style="line-height: 16px;">Place all of the ingredients except for the cornmeal and whipped butter in a bread machine and follow the manufacturer's directions for the dough cycle. The dough will be a little on the wet side and sticky, but if it seems too wet, add more bread flour while it is mixing / kneading.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16px;">Remove the dough from the machine, punch down, and divide into 8 portions. Form the portions into tubular-shaped loaves 6 to 8 inches long and 2 inches wide.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16px;">Sprinkle the entire surface of the loaves with the cornmeal and place the loaves on two cookie sheets. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 hour.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16px;">Preheat oven to 350F.</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 16px;">Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Serve warm with whipped butter. </span></li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-74738249404698661602012-01-20T12:56:00.000-05:002012-01-24T13:04:34.781-05:00Summer 1983<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/AVvXsEiv_qLVV7SHzZMolzX9VucwFyzvDntNw4rHXJsACvFRI3gzmmzGxBTouEJ0GQHe6Y7LCKCcpbQje5Mm3jTmj2cjGedbXpKunjLqyzRfyb9tgNlHPhBzjk-u0cRX3w6PORBJx4CgOsefwGE/s1600/1983_07_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_qLVV7SHzZMolzX9VucwFyzvDntNw4rHXJsACvFRI3gzmmzGxBTouEJ0GQHe6Y7LCKCcpbQje5Mm3jTmj2cjGedbXpKunjLqyzRfyb9tgNlHPhBzjk-u0cRX3w6PORBJx4CgOsefwGE/s400/1983_07_0022.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swim, swim, swimming! I love pools like this, I wish there was one around here to bring my kiddos to in the warm months.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLUN2mh5YbH2h_p6UNuXV-OkxnmH5tb6I28sHXwIFOuuvewUAuBEniI0b47vMTeePg7AoeUQWCDFbLcfERKQgK9EeaqVJAABu2wzG6E3Rii3TcwDlAoAimJnSX6wUfl-T8QzEh1Xeg3I/s1600/1983_07_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLUN2mh5YbH2h_p6UNuXV-OkxnmH5tb6I28sHXwIFOuuvewUAuBEniI0b47vMTeePg7AoeUQWCDFbLcfERKQgK9EeaqVJAABu2wzG6E3Rii3TcwDlAoAimJnSX6wUfl-T8QzEh1Xeg3I/s400/1983_07_0118.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm pretty sure that this is the campsite where we had a rattlesnake (or two) in the bushes. I remember those things rattling away and being so scared!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2EjvTWvxdo4WAHF2LGWKzwkTMcWVL5fWU23chTOPraYCsUsuoYh3RbslVjUABjcoTdgSkfGOwLGgnR4CEJf3VJBElTHafuNzwvT-6M9YwQZpl17mYawFOGn3yL7XNBZtZqH8NXcLS4o/s1600/1983_09_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2EjvTWvxdo4WAHF2LGWKzwkTMcWVL5fWU23chTOPraYCsUsuoYh3RbslVjUABjcoTdgSkfGOwLGgnR4CEJf3VJBElTHafuNzwvT-6M9YwQZpl17mYawFOGn3yL7XNBZtZqH8NXcLS4o/s400/1983_09_0004.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cousins! (L to R: Bethany, Alyssa, Stacey, Heidi, and Amy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-1146346382635291522012-01-19T19:03:00.001-05:002012-01-19T19:03:54.477-05:00Is it January? Really!?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZHr2QYgXkKY9bqOJ83j3euZpO9BWCZopFhSNqgPY-QTBcy-WJP28RLQOsRymUm6ie6d8FqYebs4vysBLMRDvWgw5fYatqZehKz4zsW4Y9dgcvl3WD3USuksN5cL8DI1_Mn_ooI8Wsmk/s1600/01.19a.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/AVvXsEjJZHr2QYgXkKY9bqOJ83j3euZpO9BWCZopFhSNqgPY-QTBcy-WJP28RLQOsRymUm6ie6d8FqYebs4vysBLMRDvWgw5fYatqZehKz4zsW4Y9dgcvl3WD3USuksN5cL8DI1_Mn_ooI8Wsmk/s320/01.19a.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
I can't speak for the rest of the nation, but I for one am loving this winter. I'm sure all of the snow loving peeps out there are just dying a little bit every day, but for those of us with little kids it has been wonderful! (Although the kids would love a little snow play and sledding sometime this winter!)<br />
<br />
We have enjoyed <i>many</i> days in the 50s and 60s this winter including last week when we took an impromptu trip to Franklin Park. There were sooo many kids running around everywhere and lots of moms breathing sighs of relief. After all, running around like a lunatic after school happens rain or shine, snow or sleet--and today-- in January-- we were doing it in the great outdoors instead of inside our homes!<br />
<br />
Max is a big fan of the swings (as is Cornelia). Here he is enjoying what he loves best! He has been my little shadow for the last few months and at the park he just stuck to me like glue. He really wanted to play with Ruby, but she just doesn't stop moving and he didn't feel like chasing her all over kingdom come!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz13gaXNJpqa_AgtTgCVZZlDBH-2rF1fNceD8VM9UmWM0HEzxtWXYtCsFkrSfa3mBPgah47kxqLshKKnlgYgryRmeYgz2PtbJRWr9f8uSISodcDZWapjD0C14H1Rnn6wDrdMYCobkZl4/s1600/01.19b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz13gaXNJpqa_AgtTgCVZZlDBH-2rF1fNceD8VM9UmWM0HEzxtWXYtCsFkrSfa3mBPgah47kxqLshKKnlgYgryRmeYgz2PtbJRWr9f8uSISodcDZWapjD0C14H1Rnn6wDrdMYCobkZl4/s320/01.19b.jpg" width="320" /></a>Cornelia was having a ball discovering all of the hidey holes and low to the ground spots at the park. This was one of her favorite spots-- the only problem is that 8-10 year old boys kept flying through the hole above her head almost squashing her each time! Cornelia didn't care though, she just <i>loves </i>being outside. As soon as she's had her breakfast she's ready to get dressed. She says, "soooes" (shoes) and then " ah-side" (outside)! The only problem is that Mommy is rarely ready to go out with her first thing in the morning!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOtQ4EEwKaZB9r6i57QJ-oQy_ccM19UDkv7yf4hcq266XkwQYEZwpTxirRta66_k4VTmkgJiMic0Vjr8OO8MR4_mkkMx01TA4uT_R4hWgdsYkoLIBgTC8_tfJhISr4DvTucrE3DQJ8go/s1600/01.19c.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/AVvXsEhAOtQ4EEwKaZB9r6i57QJ-oQy_ccM19UDkv7yf4hcq266XkwQYEZwpTxirRta66_k4VTmkgJiMic0Vjr8OO8MR4_mkkMx01TA4uT_R4hWgdsYkoLIBgTC8_tfJhISr4DvTucrE3DQJ8go/s320/01.19c.jpg" width="213" /></a>I got Ruby to stop for half a second to take this photo-- she was pretty wound up! Ruby has enjoyed the camp-like environment at Brevard Academy this year. They are outside a lot and walk quite a bit just to get to the different buildings for art, music, gym, and lunch. At first she wasn't sure about it, but I think her attitude at the end of the school day is so much better thanks in part to the extra activity. She loves to play on the playset Jared built in the afternoons too. I'll have to get some pictures of that up next week-- it's pretty impressive! I hear that a zip line is being installed by the boys this weekend-- sounds like fun!!<br />
<br />
I tried to get a group photo before we left... sadly, this was the best one! I decided to go ahead and post it-- it represents life as it is now. Ruby trying to be large and in charge, Cornelia not taking one bit of it, and Maxwell just being a sweet boy. What a trio! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7RuWRCSQRj9OHL3mJp1cbQw8dZq8w_3knkqEvRRj_rczoBA1uZGn36QLr0GHeNcK90fyS7yBFtVvXLT1AqnncB6nIbTD_kBRDIMxobSSzcENpkqlkk-iopRO6i29snsNkZp934OsIMY/s1600/01.19d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7RuWRCSQRj9OHL3mJp1cbQw8dZq8w_3knkqEvRRj_rczoBA1uZGn36QLr0GHeNcK90fyS7yBFtVvXLT1AqnncB6nIbTD_kBRDIMxobSSzcENpkqlkk-iopRO6i29snsNkZp934OsIMY/s320/01.19d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-48250947987775185382012-01-18T13:59:00.001-05:002012-01-18T13:59:31.208-05:00Birthday Run-down!Since the only Nelson birthday I managed to post about last year was Max turning four, I thought I'd give a run-down of the rest of the birthdays in 2011! Please keep in mind that I am <i>not</i> a very good cake decorator. I do my best and so far the kids don't seem to notice my shortcomings. Once they do, we'll be going with the bakery cakes! Here goes nothing...<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/AVvXsEjO-T3wl2vDkNQgpGGZdIbmqOVvbqppHSVdWhBPqmwg4n212H_VPATFRnYHZcl4lTOAulSyEj0b7SizsHOp4GP7PICT3p53p6uv1oAKMdKy6CIAuGcKMNXFpMy8b68GZk3mUjFj7rhInbk/s1600/Birthday-Ruby2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-T3wl2vDkNQgpGGZdIbmqOVvbqppHSVdWhBPqmwg4n212H_VPATFRnYHZcl4lTOAulSyEj0b7SizsHOp4GP7PICT3p53p6uv1oAKMdKy6CIAuGcKMNXFpMy8b68GZk3mUjFj7rhInbk/s400/Birthday-Ruby2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 6th Birthday Ruby! Her poor princess castle cake drooped <i>considerably </i>before we were able to eat it! We almost had cake before dinner that night! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWosvP15eBudy-fpK44TEr10A5CabvsoNWZrYA1JnfmUM0MT4dTONjwNMDHlUmCQyDTzxI64Es5cp6Q61QXMePknHKQ25luJVh6bl11istYljFiJ8JeL64fw7oX6p9XFEhDVrdjpgs6Y/s1600/Birthday-Ruby3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWosvP15eBudy-fpK44TEr10A5CabvsoNWZrYA1JnfmUM0MT4dTONjwNMDHlUmCQyDTzxI64Es5cp6Q61QXMePknHKQ25luJVh6bl11istYljFiJ8JeL64fw7oX6p9XFEhDVrdjpgs6Y/s400/Birthday-Ruby3.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby's 6 year old gifts were all about bugs. She played with her bug net, and critter cage all summer long. Now the net is mostly used as a hat/mask by Cornelia! Ha!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKxKx98nV-iAbTxE2-Y3PCPC-UauyexWXwBxO0vm6QHiscxVdC84P29HlBUtnElXZ0FN4iziRIS4mP9Myc3MiTSpIvbAsAJ0_MwCbxIRTJnvxvlAPaelNmCxTcJ74KM8DawxdADHtHVQ/s1600/Birthday-Coco1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKxKx98nV-iAbTxE2-Y3PCPC-UauyexWXwBxO0vm6QHiscxVdC84P29HlBUtnElXZ0FN4iziRIS4mP9Myc3MiTSpIvbAsAJ0_MwCbxIRTJnvxvlAPaelNmCxTcJ74KM8DawxdADHtHVQ/s400/Birthday-Coco1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And then, Cornelia turned ONE! We totally forgot to take a picture until after we had gobbled up half of her pineapple cake. It was SOOOOO good!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZN_ujxETqJBzJNa_pGNBNYR-qZaA88ZT5e0AZm2FZ9xQ-W8KLlKA8PKn6TVVS3jm7kB0yoqgChWTMlztColrI67mGqm35l2TeH9EJbVrQ4IyxXnEkrzcdJFUz_-LAthD0hvtDhmQeeb8/s1600/Birthday-Coco2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZN_ujxETqJBzJNa_pGNBNYR-qZaA88ZT5e0AZm2FZ9xQ-W8KLlKA8PKn6TVVS3jm7kB0yoqgChWTMlztColrI67mGqm35l2TeH9EJbVrQ4IyxXnEkrzcdJFUz_-LAthD0hvtDhmQeeb8/s400/Birthday-Coco2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm pretty sure that Cornelia agreed! She is our little family clown. As I was going through photos there were probably a dozen with her making goofy faces with her spoon! </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/AVvXsEimtCDAkvRkMZohJEEDVdAxhN31PyC1fJsAy72cJpa0QOoMYLF47ydYrPhyphenhyphenSAQemzHXHpt6eaAyWL-qi2nm6vTtVldc7AgMRbMG2rltL_O5uSq4fi0cYJ1CjXBIRiqcLYQL4gGP18f2rAA/s1600/Birthday-B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimtCDAkvRkMZohJEEDVdAxhN31PyC1fJsAy72cJpa0QOoMYLF47ydYrPhyphenhyphenSAQemzHXHpt6eaAyWL-qi2nm6vTtVldc7AgMRbMG2rltL_O5uSq4fi0cYJ1CjXBIRiqcLYQL4gGP18f2rAA/s400/Birthday-B1.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On my birthday, we spent the day outside. Cornelia played in the water, while Jared and the kids started the playset project!</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/AVvXsEiwmWyYDuA9qEa2yVae2dMvqxTymH6kNVb2aDvjUaJkDmJ-TmaNx380we84uqnrhHwdN9G3ktRgs547nQLbqTSsUk3MElpKKRG2gOFwPS8kvCe5211AWQbRvSpZKFjPCYWizInEMNm18Fg/s1600/Birthday-B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmWyYDuA9qEa2yVae2dMvqxTymH6kNVb2aDvjUaJkDmJ-TmaNx380we84uqnrhHwdN9G3ktRgs547nQLbqTSsUk3MElpKKRG2gOFwPS8kvCe5211AWQbRvSpZKFjPCYWizInEMNm18Fg/s400/Birthday-B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby, Maxwell, and Jared hard at work.</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/AVvXsEhGcqQVQSymrt4DNtnI60lwou3pwQt70hf9n9m2Pd5PNhwS5qEvwDXN3-VQi_GCCGqaOTQAuV6lNLU6kg-Niv7N1683HnTxKvIti_S0_Dmsfu7lhhH9TlSdkLlupI6oJVeBIlSGxkwciXA/s1600/Birthday-J1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGcqQVQSymrt4DNtnI60lwou3pwQt70hf9n9m2Pd5PNhwS5qEvwDXN3-VQi_GCCGqaOTQAuV6lNLU6kg-Niv7N1683HnTxKvIti_S0_Dmsfu7lhhH9TlSdkLlupI6oJVeBIlSGxkwciXA/s400/Birthday-J1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For Jared's birthday, cousin Kristin Babcock made some <i>amazing</i> cookies. I decided not to bother with cake once I knew these beauties were on the way!</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/AVvXsEj_s3B0RR0MPTbjT881P66E-insgXxCv34uTD0ApQhxmeRvkps59nN08WAEjp8SH1yY-pHCIYPX2aZBf5OmqrTw2CkgiVObhZWTg68yhp_DxbV5SSkoSLkO3mXMot-kQDEkNX2oTCouZhI/s1600/Birthday-J2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_s3B0RR0MPTbjT881P66E-insgXxCv34uTD0ApQhxmeRvkps59nN08WAEjp8SH1yY-pHCIYPX2aZBf5OmqrTw2CkgiVObhZWTg68yhp_DxbV5SSkoSLkO3mXMot-kQDEkNX2oTCouZhI/s400/Birthday-J2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instead we splurged with banana splits and cookies! Yum! </td></tr>
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The kids sure grew and changed a lot between May 2nd and November 14th (especially Cornelia!). I hope you enjoyed our skip down memory lane as much as I did!Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-35894134735240453422012-01-17T08:00:00.000-05:002012-01-17T09:19:49.578-05:00Mozzarella MeatballsIn honor of meal swap tonight, I thought I'd post a freezer friendly favorite from the club. It's hard to believe that we've been cooking and swapping for about two years now! Wow! It sure has been a blessing to me to be able to pull something homemade out of the freezer a few nights a week for dinner. It makes those emergency grocery trips or fast food nights very few and far between, for which we are all thankful. Now on to the recipe!<br />
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<a href="http://hostedmedia.reimanpub.com/TOH/Images/Photos/37/exps34403_THA1146628D85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://hostedmedia.reimanpub.com/TOH/Images/Photos/37/exps34403_THA1146628D85.jpg" /></a><u style="font-weight: bold;">Mozzarella Meatballs</u><br />
(makes 120 meatballs-- ~6 meals worth!)<br />
(from "Fix, Freeze, Feast")<br />
<br />
6lbs. lean ground beef<br />
15 sticks of mozzarella string cheese<br />
3 c. dry bread crumbs<br />
2/3 c. milk<br />
4 eggs, lightly beaten<br />
1/4 c. minced onion<br />
2 T. minced garlic<br />
1 T. salt<br />
2 tsp. black pepper<br />
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1. Remove string cheese from wrappers and cut each string into 8 equal pieces. Place in a large bowl or 1 gallon freezer bag and freeze until it is time to form meatballs.<br />
2. Preheat the oven to 500F.<br />
3. Using your hands, thoroughly combine beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Shape into 1- to 1 1/2-inch meatballs, around each piece of frozen mozzarella. Seal meatballs well to keep cheese from oozing out.<br />
4. Place meatballs close together on lightly greased broiler pans or rimmed baking sheets. Bake for 15 minutes. Cool meatballs.<br />
5. Freeze in gallon sized freezer bag or serve right away with your favorite marinara! YUM!<br />
<br />Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-51639744377448485072012-01-16T14:15:00.001-05:002012-01-16T14:15:38.055-05:00Something Special<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGid3Ga6j622nAcNtWhC4iv4zNdUT28EeIU1x6SAfrMcxu7iMvXKF1EqOe1LnfjVgLIXRhQbCAJq_3H7HXBo6u4-SHuYfwUGaUDzyrcVcqNLXSKCPHLvt9keq49EXSWDNADhAXszk-b4/s1600/IMG_0068.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/AVvXsEhiGid3Ga6j622nAcNtWhC4iv4zNdUT28EeIU1x6SAfrMcxu7iMvXKF1EqOe1LnfjVgLIXRhQbCAJq_3H7HXBo6u4-SHuYfwUGaUDzyrcVcqNLXSKCPHLvt9keq49EXSWDNADhAXszk-b4/s320/IMG_0068.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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This Saturday we all got to enjoy something a little special!<br />
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Maxwell had a great time going to a Transformers Birthday party with his Daddy. He decided that he ought to wear his Halloween costume to get in the spirit of the party. He looked something like the photo to the right, except now he's just about ready to pop out of the suit--apparently he's grown quite a bit since Halloween! <br />
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Jared said that they had a really great scavenger hunt leading to the apex of any decent kids' party--the pinata! Jared managed to rile the kids up to a fever pitch and got good and rowdy with them-- his specialty. I think I'm glad I wasn't there to see the reaction of all the moms to the craziness that he stirs up. I'm sure that the boys LOVED it though!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3YUiunbHQGwJ25Q7mv_MfbBvIru2__fMY-uT_2HcIQXEIlg1-1RNB535sjq8UqR90fWBTrIGVQIcEYf3gaxAIeEeM0kLRV1rtl-skGJxgfg3u-HYI7ZNp235Xp1XHXXzQ6y3d4CTzWuQ/s1600/IMG_5223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3YUiunbHQGwJ25Q7mv_MfbBvIru2__fMY-uT_2HcIQXEIlg1-1RNB535sjq8UqR90fWBTrIGVQIcEYf3gaxAIeEeM0kLRV1rtl-skGJxgfg3u-HYI7ZNp235Xp1XHXXzQ6y3d4CTzWuQ/s320/IMG_5223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
While the boys were playing rough and rowdy, the girls and I decided to get down to business with some hot cocoa (or just piles of mini marshmallows in Cornelia's case!) and a rousing game of Scrabble. This was Ruby's first game and she did pretty well. It's definitely a challenge to not only unscramble tiles to make up words, but also find a spot for them on the board. I'm looking forward to many more games with Ruby (and our other sweet kiddos) in the years to come!Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-40775683294583316072012-01-13T08:00:00.000-05:002012-01-13T13:37:45.953-05:00Summer 1987I forced myself to scan a reel of slides *just* so that I'd have fodder for this blog post-- see the plan is working! So, here are two of my favorites...<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/AVvXsEhiAa1IlJ0Zt26d82iZ5nnkTZY6DwOOZMuVKM7EaEj7NbB7thFjxUrNCZQvs0HBWiW_eroVOG00AitPjHB9enivK_Mzj_ywRtsU2ym1lsaTsZUmXvTg9s2dGYp9DD1rbwekJnKMtyerJJE/s1600/1987_08_0223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAa1IlJ0Zt26d82iZ5nnkTZY6DwOOZMuVKM7EaEj7NbB7thFjxUrNCZQvs0HBWiW_eroVOG00AitPjHB9enivK_Mzj_ywRtsU2ym1lsaTsZUmXvTg9s2dGYp9DD1rbwekJnKMtyerJJE/s400/1987_08_0223.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: -webkit-auto;">From this photo it appears that Mom and Christina were just dropped on this rock in the middle of a lake (notice they are perfectly dry!), but I'm guessing that it's not actually too far from shore! </span></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/AVvXsEjz0ntyM50Z3JZiDhd4LNQdLxWMV7XSrFVyii8VJGs13QObsz5_m6vRx7kVQ7IUyZ6Z9KtBoD-mCatBad1SSfH39RjdBVRiEzURvD2lz_e9G_T2p5Xc3uU2w58QYMTA5WdyuywWe_swvuw/s1600/1987_08_0160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0ntyM50Z3JZiDhd4LNQdLxWMV7XSrFVyii8VJGs13QObsz5_m6vRx7kVQ7IUyZ6Z9KtBoD-mCatBad1SSfH39RjdBVRiEzURvD2lz_e9G_T2p5Xc3uU2w58QYMTA5WdyuywWe_swvuw/s400/1987_08_0160.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: -webkit-auto;">And this one is taken closer to home...obviously! I think Cornelia look so much like Christina in this picture (except with blonde out of control hair in our C's case).</span></td></tr>
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This weekend will be packed with Meal Swap cooking, a birthday party (for Max to attend), and the usual church hustle and bustle. We'll try to squeeze some family fun in there too. See you on Monday!Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-24082850609728881052012-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:002012-01-12T08:00:10.146-05:00Goooo, Bulldogs!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikf3A0brvoTvPtn92HXYTlDtRsd9jq6kdQ74hArHQ2fDDCwezIlymNNZO1P3Vn4Jfa1n73_nf4SIsFsbIaakhvWacNDhUC3fbOxF7lJon4BBdpFdk_2B_pdgmcKo3wKJ3gdsZmWvS-Q5I/s1600/2012.1.11a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikf3A0brvoTvPtn92HXYTlDtRsd9jq6kdQ74hArHQ2fDDCwezIlymNNZO1P3Vn4Jfa1n73_nf4SIsFsbIaakhvWacNDhUC3fbOxF7lJon4BBdpFdk_2B_pdgmcKo3wKJ3gdsZmWvS-Q5I/s320/2012.1.11a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby and her fellow Pup Squaders cheer on their team!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This first year at Brevard Academy has been a really fabulous one for Ruby. Not only has she grown by leaps and bounds academically, she has grown so much socially as well. Our shrinking violet has blossomed in the most wonderful ways. Just one of those ways has been through cheering with the Pup Squad this fall and winter. It was really fun to see her get out with her friends and cheer on the middle school girls and boys basketball teams. I wasn't able to stay for many of the games as Cornelia isn't much for sitting in the bleachers, but I did get a few shots of our gal in action!<br />
<br />
We also enjoyed practicing the cheers at home... in the van... at the store... and pretty much anywhere she could. "Run, run, run that floor! Raise, raise, raise that score! Run that floor! Raise that score! TWO POINTS MORE!" And my personal favorite: "Let's. Get. A Little Bit Rowdy! R - O - W - a'D - Y!" Ruby always<i> insisted </i>on the "a'D" part, much to my eternal amusement. It must be a southern thing. :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlfcezasUT-elVufjZjMmcUGuvNxNc4tGd0HO8GvO_HrAOALecJudeWDtHrDaKGJS-0AfwVOD-a3KoTdH1fAZOjktcPfD3boHf4D5clg8zBp4scm5lcf_JHBls9eB1PRdMPYvsvqSlhaY/s1600/2012.1.11b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlfcezasUT-elVufjZjMmcUGuvNxNc4tGd0HO8GvO_HrAOALecJudeWDtHrDaKGJS-0AfwVOD-a3KoTdH1fAZOjktcPfD3boHf4D5clg8zBp4scm5lcf_JHBls9eB1PRdMPYvsvqSlhaY/s320/2012.1.11b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We won! Yeah!!!!</td></tr>
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Ruby had her first sports banquet this week signalling the end of the first basketball season (and cheer season) at Brevard Academy. It was a fun date night for Jared and Ruby and she even got a fancy schmancy framed certificate which she has proudly displayed on her bulletin board. <br />
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What excites me most about our little cheerleader is that she is a good sport on and off the court. I was so proud to read on her report card last week that Ruby is a great friend to ALL her classmates! She really does love each of her classmates and treats each of them as special friends. I hope that she can always have that loving and encouraging heart towards others--what a blessing!Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-58004681447501120572012-01-11T10:14:00.001-05:002012-01-11T10:14:47.329-05:00I'm baaaack!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey! Are you okay down there?! I know you probably just fell out of your seat when you flipped over to the good ol' Nutty Nelsons and you DIDN'T SEE Maxwell turning FOUR! <br />
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Yes, it's true. He's gaining on five and I'm back. At least I want to be. <br />
<br />
As you might guess, life is a bit busy for a humble taxi driver like me. Between driving to and fro delivering and picking up children for school and our various activities, life is full. Also it doesn't seem that I've had a lot to write about or time to actually do the writing. After SEVERAL conversations with my loving hubby, I (we) have decided that this is one thing that must change in 2012. You see, I'm not a scrapbooker or journaler and I also have a terrible memory. If I don't blog, I may turn around when I'm 40 and say, "Hey, what have I been DOING for the last decade!". So, I am attempting a come back. It may be a bit disjointed, but I think I have a plan. Here is my plan (in all it's glory)! (p.s. You may want to skip this part if lists bore you!)<br />
<br />
Monday: A taste of the here and now of it all.<br />
Tuesday: Tasty Tuesday returns. (I know you love it!)<br />
Wednesday: 2011: The highlights. (more for my sake than yours, sorry!)<br />
Thursday: More tastes of the here and now of it all.<br />
Friday: Flashback Friday returns (I <i>must</i> finish scanning the Armstrong slides this year!)<br />
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So there you have it--plan your reading schedule appropriately.<br />
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As kind of an extra bonus side note to this comeback post, I would like to note that it is raining today. One of those thunderstormy periodically heavy, but never really stopping kind of rains. Just a few weeks ago, this would have been cause for much angst from me (what with the taxi service lifestyle I lead), but I am thrilled to report we have found a solution! Cornelia can now hold the umbrella up over both of us while I carry her! Oh joy! We are both dry! This growing up stuff is pretty great. :)<br />
<br />
Come back soon for more exciting reads from our daily life. Oh, and go ahead and have a glass half full kind of day today. It's worth it!Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-47618441953949895332011-04-20T10:58:00.004-04:002011-04-20T11:07:00.198-04:00Happy 4th Birthday, Maxwell!It's a little bit hard to believe that four years have passed since that long ago Thursday in Denmark when Isabelle Schmidt drove Jared and I to the hospital in Hellerup for Maxwell to be born. He was a stubborn little guy, just as cozy as could be in my belly-- all ten and a half pounds of him! When he barreled his way into the world his Daddy and I were struck with his beauty and by the wonder of his Creator-- we still are! Here are a few pics from his day.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTStDy6DsxkES3qrIkNX4CF7ZSsUlfAoj009D3rciiYGzo9BtVmXLmIr-CLkgyytQ32J_tUnf3_-djH-Jd0zSZIloQW13SVcG7MdNmvN-88raVgbKzQFw9msxE7Xa-OIhCDwGhR_vimA/s1600/IMG_4424.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTStDy6DsxkES3qrIkNX4CF7ZSsUlfAoj009D3rciiYGzo9BtVmXLmIr-CLkgyytQ32J_tUnf3_-djH-Jd0zSZIloQW13SVcG7MdNmvN-88raVgbKzQFw9msxE7Xa-OIhCDwGhR_vimA/s400/IMG_4424.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597682270142735810" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgARMy9Z9nycfw6p4gGFKarQeZyjwT47lLqS-z3ZCEj66phfB_UrR65PCHeQn0_00XprRWRzqS8_IcqTGxHJP7M_mU0zxdDkaNbqtNM5CX1TAkvwDdCBCciAy-UC6IglqnIsZTQuSGfW7Y/s1600/IMG_4438.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgARMy9Z9nycfw6p4gGFKarQeZyjwT47lLqS-z3ZCEj66phfB_UrR65PCHeQn0_00XprRWRzqS8_IcqTGxHJP7M_mU0zxdDkaNbqtNM5CX1TAkvwDdCBCciAy-UC6IglqnIsZTQuSGfW7Y/s400/IMG_4438.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597682261851266962" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFf4B6Kk8HNml3Z7Eab03gdX3495hayc7xsEie7AR3p1qw1HfZKKniCWdFohARBxfvhdvtjxrFgdyFOT-5gEKFUolxTMOA6ggewaK_DwxKUxGgtLlZ6u0hQpMhLWkKLk_6aw1t74J5uY/s1600/IMG_4445.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFf4B6Kk8HNml3Z7Eab03gdX3495hayc7xsEie7AR3p1qw1HfZKKniCWdFohARBxfvhdvtjxrFgdyFOT-5gEKFUolxTMOA6ggewaK_DwxKUxGgtLlZ6u0hQpMhLWkKLk_6aw1t74J5uY/s400/IMG_4445.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597682253857812914" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ySMwU7GudK5qlaC-TAjK4J8eBukskZXsMmlJ9JaEkXO2XEqKuLKJ_gDrK9uNppyaytCYjOODVS3OGykXzBt_V_JuweMpEWsxjmfM-KckT178AFt_8CFPnOjXCPDxPM5EkfU3UBCpS7I/s1600/IMG_4453.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ySMwU7GudK5qlaC-TAjK4J8eBukskZXsMmlJ9JaEkXO2XEqKuLKJ_gDrK9uNppyaytCYjOODVS3OGykXzBt_V_JuweMpEWsxjmfM-KckT178AFt_8CFPnOjXCPDxPM5EkfU3UBCpS7I/s400/IMG_4453.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597682257218050226" /></a><br /><i>Thank you, God, for our sweet boy. He is a blessing and a pleasure! We love him more each day and we are so thankful for the work you are doing in his little heart. We love you, Jesus!</i></div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-34754736987712684202011-04-19T13:27:00.002-04:002011-04-19T13:39:40.461-04:00Two weeks of sickies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Dz1YB0oQGTs8AO6Ar4vV3v1RoGyCP8t0jetb03Sb6J3bgsK7WbrNCfMJ-IbxQ2eD6_jTLBne2juGLdwiWmN-5SOYXiY5KSnrqUuAIzBye13At_DlG3FJZmp6jv7Qms5RJZ40Zi-AAhY/s1600/IMG_4471.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Dz1YB0oQGTs8AO6Ar4vV3v1RoGyCP8t0jetb03Sb6J3bgsK7WbrNCfMJ-IbxQ2eD6_jTLBne2juGLdwiWmN-5SOYXiY5KSnrqUuAIzBye13At_DlG3FJZmp6jv7Qms5RJZ40Zi-AAhY/s320/IMG_4471.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597348180932832834" /></a>I'm pleased to announce that Exhibit A (to the left) has <i>finally </i>left the building! Not the child, but her expression and the cause!<div><br /></div><div>We have had a rough go of it the last two weeks with stuffy heads, upset tummies, soaring fevers (up in the 105F range for poor Cornelia), and lots of coughing and sneezing to boot. </div><div><br /></div><div>Our miracle child, Ruby, managed to get through it all with just one day out of school--even Jared fared worse than that! We are so thankful that at <i>almost</i> 6 years old she has managed to never have one dose of antibiotics! Wow!</div><div><br /></div><div>Poor Maxwell had a somewhat miserable 4th birthday last week, down with a very bad ear infection. We still managed to squeeze a little bit of fun out of the day-- pictures to come.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cornelia definitely had it the worst though. She's still on antibiotics and has a crusted up nose. She also has introduced us to the thrilling world of breathing treatments. Poor baby! </div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, we are so thankful to God for our health. We are almost all better and finally able to enjoy all of this beautiful spring weather. I better get outside and take some photos of these beautiful blooms because if I blink it's going to be July... seriously. </div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you are taking a moment today to enjoy the wonder of creation and the majesty of our Creator. See you soon!</div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-80221545599783668952011-04-07T15:08:00.004-04:002011-04-07T15:22:17.865-04:00Wedding Day FavoritesI <i>finally attacked the photos yesterday from Heidi and Kelly's wedding. I know... it took a month, but better late than never, eh? I have soooo many photos, here are a few of my favorites from the big day...</i><div><i><br /></i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMd3fhgIUzjYnEVaDIUeBdC8YibpCowKt44YR_IqOQsDbDlMFCQ2u7gtnvJijTJbY3MxFP3tEMr9dit2ux8yib6EznNbJQyexbqO1nrNDTZ4VRXUVbAoo5hpUl3PwXVKXcZ49JRCSTXQ/s1600/IMG_4165+Colorized.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMd3fhgIUzjYnEVaDIUeBdC8YibpCowKt44YR_IqOQsDbDlMFCQ2u7gtnvJijTJbY3MxFP3tEMr9dit2ux8yib6EznNbJQyexbqO1nrNDTZ4VRXUVbAoo5hpUl3PwXVKXcZ49JRCSTXQ/s400/IMG_4165+Colorized.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923835159078386" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27pOxxP6EnkYJkjb-FDSGZnRvitFkppkzbAFAkV9cxo9BA0u9MVuBzybWT_snbmCMjn7C9Sn13yUhji34kbpEJVxv05PK8m4phq6zFoJVOjG2dBFfY3UWEeuE0CRTukFHTBOwjiiUiuQ/s1600/IMG_4172+B%2526W+Beauty.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27pOxxP6EnkYJkjb-FDSGZnRvitFkppkzbAFAkV9cxo9BA0u9MVuBzybWT_snbmCMjn7C9Sn13yUhji34kbpEJVxv05PK8m4phq6zFoJVOjG2dBFfY3UWEeuE0CRTukFHTBOwjiiUiuQ/s400/IMG_4172+B%2526W+Beauty.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923832015251026" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEV5wE58PYOgewAzDu6xwsOwbuIMTD4C9lAK4qkkGI5KApIhICDcCECyPRBQd3F6Yl2GtbUaGZZ9eLQ4afSU52HFuCHlymm5ylV-j2WOh1wyEI1v3aKGSc7C1PzkLEKzixY1ZHk_2034/s1600/IMG_4192+Soft+Faded.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEV5wE58PYOgewAzDu6xwsOwbuIMTD4C9lAK4qkkGI5KApIhICDcCECyPRBQd3F6Yl2GtbUaGZZ9eLQ4afSU52HFuCHlymm5ylV-j2WOh1wyEI1v3aKGSc7C1PzkLEKzixY1ZHk_2034/s400/IMG_4192+Soft+Faded.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923830416783058" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNe-A4MW_PrjO-QxMy8KXhl1S56vcMknCxehzusTIRZtG0oP_6PjmtVIDfNxaKILj6yTWf426rH9BO4zdr503tc2GIbk6DUf-n49k47Ct2B3VM_0nIUAeIRVSd0faWNsDTOx6XCOOMz1o/s1600/IMG_4200+Colorized.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNe-A4MW_PrjO-QxMy8KXhl1S56vcMknCxehzusTIRZtG0oP_6PjmtVIDfNxaKILj6yTWf426rH9BO4zdr503tc2GIbk6DUf-n49k47Ct2B3VM_0nIUAeIRVSd0faWNsDTOx6XCOOMz1o/s400/IMG_4200+Colorized.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923624227922738" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8dFd-SCUpI83dqNiGpwsm2xLXQl0mUL-tdFhyVud35HHnPofhJQ4L5mJ_ighT_0JEJBL4PIdAMVQx7ob_vQbGk1aOAPJv7__N9V3d-gnwqmjysrbCzseCBu-ZwLTnRfpH6e_MTaArGs/s1600/IMG_4215+B%2526W+Beauty+Quick+Burn.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8dFd-SCUpI83dqNiGpwsm2xLXQl0mUL-tdFhyVud35HHnPofhJQ4L5mJ_ighT_0JEJBL4PIdAMVQx7ob_vQbGk1aOAPJv7__N9V3d-gnwqmjysrbCzseCBu-ZwLTnRfpH6e_MTaArGs/s400/IMG_4215+B%2526W+Beauty+Quick+Burn.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923622292733650" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkuzfGarE0ura3mBFzsGy1b_5Eyh03Bwcx-A25o4EY15vuAb77pw2j1LvvqmmLY89pAR9twFJo1od2G-kB25c2tg5f06t0HJdKMMJ2HLzFhM0Cj1WLxc-yc5R5UuYuX7tzHOjwMWZL1c/s1600/IMG_4233+B%2526W+Colorized.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkuzfGarE0ura3mBFzsGy1b_5Eyh03Bwcx-A25o4EY15vuAb77pw2j1LvvqmmLY89pAR9twFJo1od2G-kB25c2tg5f06t0HJdKMMJ2HLzFhM0Cj1WLxc-yc5R5UuYuX7tzHOjwMWZL1c/s400/IMG_4233+B%2526W+Colorized.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923617526024082" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4duS-Qlv5IF0CKcbG9BhhAS0gqYxlhxF6BTGV-HdNnmIn4mC102w1bcTfCCefA1kFveGQoYwA28vLA35PQqOjSpC4ZRe2JdtFYdMms2LOgeGlCSEKzSFfb6qCJ9ozs_Vh9S0OSFzvUQ/s1600/IMG_4236+Soft+Faded.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4duS-Qlv5IF0CKcbG9BhhAS0gqYxlhxF6BTGV-HdNnmIn4mC102w1bcTfCCefA1kFveGQoYwA28vLA35PQqOjSpC4ZRe2JdtFYdMms2LOgeGlCSEKzSFfb6qCJ9ozs_Vh9S0OSFzvUQ/s400/IMG_4236+Soft+Faded.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923611314642994" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjO_Rcflg_XYosaOI0uq9i5bWCSPCxGQfd0x8KqD_mdW741dHxOaFgeOrTm5AGUXwy-6XPkVCzJ6RYP7ne6xR-2QvTzD7AUHaPn1AUV1gc_l2Fp9ukfEAJPhW1ZNPvIFAwydgIq2Ikauo/s1600/IMG_4247+B%2526W+Beauty.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjO_Rcflg_XYosaOI0uq9i5bWCSPCxGQfd0x8KqD_mdW741dHxOaFgeOrTm5AGUXwy-6XPkVCzJ6RYP7ne6xR-2QvTzD7AUHaPn1AUV1gc_l2Fp9ukfEAJPhW1ZNPvIFAwydgIq2Ikauo/s400/IMG_4247+B%2526W+Beauty.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592923612190346434" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Happy (belated) one month anniversary, guys! We love you!</i></div><br /></div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-56869479545493555712011-04-05T14:21:00.006-04:002011-04-05T14:33:15.790-04:00Garlic-Studded Mahimahi with Sage Butter<span class="Apple-style-span"><div class="rcpdetail" id="ingredients" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; "><ul style="margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; line-height: 16px; "><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">Back before we had children I used to do more advanced things in the kitchen like "studding" a nice fillet of fish with blanched garlic. I'm not sure what possessed me to tackle this again yesterday, along with a yummy risotto and loaded green salad, but it was <i>almost </i> worth that screaming baby attached to my leg once it was on the table! :) </span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">You will definitely enjoy it without the screaming baby part. </span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">Can I just interject that our sweet baby girl is ten and a half months old and STILL only has the 2 teeth she got at five months. That may explain the screaming! </span></li></ul><div style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">This recipe is from Cooking Light magazi</span>ne, oh about 7 years ago!</span></div><div style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 12px; "><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy6rlYA6vpOyl7rMXm7JETASdSmpY58zLfOQEDIYs5zw7YYltXdLnigHkxoWs8TyrJoZWdjJqL2aB9o3GBdHmie6JcvP4BmfvV6X0f8_J7kKd_ISjTW9O0VYFVWbFuGAurJDujjgzq9fA/s400/img_noPhoto300.gif" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592167587848891874" /></span><div style="font-family: georgia; "><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span">Garlic-Studded Mahimahi with Sage Butter</span></u></b></div><div style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><ul style="margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; line-height: 16px; "><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced</span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">4 (6-ounce) mahimahi or other firm whitefish fillets</span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">Cooking spray</span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">5 teaspoons butter, softened</span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage</span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></li><li style="list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span">1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper</span></li></ul></div><div class="rcpdetail" id="preparation" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 16px; "><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4em; "></p><ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span">Preheat oven to 475°.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">Place garlic in a small saucepan, and cover with water. Bring to a boil; remove from heat. Drain and cool slightly. Make several small slits on outside of fillets; stuff with garlic. Place fillets on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">Combine butter, sage, salt, and pepper; spread evenly over fillets. Bake at 475° for 13 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.</span></span></li></ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span">It's a feels fancy meal that really isn't all that fussy in the end--enjoy!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">**Please ignore the flighty fonts... Blogger is my nemesis today.**</div><p></p></div></span>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-28688761150601119452011-04-01T08:00:00.002-04:002011-04-01T08:00:13.550-04:001987Just a few highlights from 1987... <br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveYzq8b4wq7B2J-WmvVWkr1NFGbjp0gPTnyqFx_xlTbfCvyhCAn9cGTPc-aDky_z7XB4e4GzQOgnhCxGkDYAg1zHeLk7AT0vfeNWcqtAXM_biTmpS-b_Vd3ER8LlawkF2OsCfrZ0bSBk/s1600/1987_01_0006.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590257729447818658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveYzq8b4wq7B2J-WmvVWkr1NFGbjp0gPTnyqFx_xlTbfCvyhCAn9cGTPc-aDky_z7XB4e4GzQOgnhCxGkDYAg1zHeLk7AT0vfeNWcqtAXM_biTmpS-b_Vd3ER8LlawkF2OsCfrZ0bSBk/s400/1987_01_0006.jpg" /></a><em> Parfait joins our family... what a name, Dad!</em></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglobdyMn-m93B3N1zKYUQbOzixIg8ZrLO8JuTCV0wA0PclGOQ38fK6KjetMO3tt9gdCAcE7dyyBjVLZO3ZlpueyV8cgCnxMZNLb9X1-H5ki12sHHPlmURsgXgHXOeedvYy2hZMJ5zmirA/s1600/1987_07_0113.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 268px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590257725518551474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglobdyMn-m93B3N1zKYUQbOzixIg8ZrLO8JuTCV0wA0PclGOQ38fK6KjetMO3tt9gdCAcE7dyyBjVLZO3ZlpueyV8cgCnxMZNLb9X1-H5ki12sHHPlmURsgXgHXOeedvYy2hZMJ5zmirA/s400/1987_07_0113.jpg" /></a> <em>Mom and Dad's Hawaii vacation...</em> <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSTXzxNjizV07nIz-Q4YR9cPU4rhKcSOt2aHR_8tN9niRCLvr3Y9nq2RkFH6OJGCINGYBTG2q0zMehkQdEsZsyooQokEnVZqqAEP9fhkzT-aU7W6h3GGwWLuSke-hHe_SZvE8OezmhYQ/s1600/1987_11_0037.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590257727560546418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSTXzxNjizV07nIz-Q4YR9cPU4rhKcSOt2aHR_8tN9niRCLvr3Y9nq2RkFH6OJGCINGYBTG2q0zMehkQdEsZsyooQokEnVZqqAEP9fhkzT-aU7W6h3GGwWLuSke-hHe_SZvE8OezmhYQ/s400/1987_11_0037.jpg" /></a> <em>Halloween in Minnesota... Heidi as a witch, Alyssa and Christina as clowns, and me as a lumberjack. Ha! </em><br /><div></div></div></div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-87707890614007367602011-03-31T09:58:00.008-04:002011-03-31T10:39:27.068-04:00Great Reads<div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;">I stumbled on a really great series thanks to my handy dandy Kindle a while back and it's just too great not to share! </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTB_2X1oabIY8ulgsRdGvxrpuEOnRnL78Kr3MJrJfT7v1-3ru9oS115C3kV9ivVeopNvOjDoG7ZtXSzYJLzWte_H3fbt5tTacrk_Xuza4sGolkCfxWiFQpGw0sZbnnzS9QbWY-B8xsapo/s1600/205149.gif"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 180px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590243884752130162" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTB_2X1oabIY8ulgsRdGvxrpuEOnRnL78Kr3MJrJfT7v1-3ru9oS115C3kV9ivVeopNvOjDoG7ZtXSzYJLzWte_H3fbt5tTacrk_Xuza4sGolkCfxWiFQpGw0sZbnnzS9QbWY-B8xsapo/s320/205149.gif" /></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;">The first book, "The Centurion's Wife", takes place just after the death and resurrection of Jesus. The disciples and followers are reeling, and followers of The Way are growing exponentially. </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;">The story focuses on the lives of a down on her luck Roman with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Judean</span> roots (Leah) who is working in Pilate's household and a Roman Centurion. There is, of course, a love story element, but it isn't a huge part of the book. The excitement of that time and the coming of the Holy Spirit is just awesome. </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWWBnlmk99I8a6qa7UZMegmO5fIZmJZ8FMKZLwX1FvMuKPp_geRketU4RLjyrN-M9CpGeK9uuABxXhREx28DifzlL2cJ1R87iKdNwH5iFXwfqm-s67n3YOeSOWDWwaI7-fI6azcMGQus/s1600/207426.gif"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 180px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590243876948493010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWWBnlmk99I8a6qa7UZMegmO5fIZmJZ8FMKZLwX1FvMuKPp_geRketU4RLjyrN-M9CpGeK9uuABxXhREx28DifzlL2cJ1R87iKdNwH5iFXwfqm-s67n3YOeSOWDWwaI7-fI6azcMGQus/s320/207426.gif" /></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;">The second book, "The Hidden Flame" , focuses in on the life of Abigail and other followers of The Way in Jerusalem. They are being persecuted, yet followers of The Way are growing in number. It's a tense and exciting time! </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;">We continue to follow the life of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Alban</span> (the centurion) and Leah, as well their good friend Linux (another Roman centurion). Will the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Judean</span> and Roman leadership crush the followers of the Way? </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdd2junhW2-_uTcB6NKzKUXPGl9ie8YZUDCX-uGaqPu0FoQJmYT8aGsAjDxiJqtzikpHfKV_xTcWAe9Jre3W01f3CpBiGwfG7ZDP5F5V6SMjdz9ni0Cc5gjjPcZ43R01J50SosmG0npM/s1600/205583.gif"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 180px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590243878686237346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSdd2junhW2-_uTcB6NKzKUXPGl9ie8YZUDCX-uGaqPu0FoQJmYT8aGsAjDxiJqtzikpHfKV_xTcWAe9Jre3W01f3CpBiGwfG7ZDP5F5V6SMjdz9ni0Cc5gjjPcZ43R01J50SosmG0npM/s320/205583.gif" /></span></a><span style="font-family:georgia;">In the third installment, "The Damascus Way", followers of The Way are on the run from Jerusalem where they have become unsafe. Abigail and her young daughter, along with many other believers move and the Holy Spirit moves with them, changing hearts all along the way. </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;">Will Abigail find love again after losing her husband? What will happen next? </span></div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-24418171295038125082011-03-29T21:20:00.005-04:002011-03-29T21:59:00.214-04:00Pioneer Woman's Perfect Pot Roast<span class="Apple-style-span" >If you haven't yet discovered <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/01/2008_the_year_of_the_pot_roast/">Pioneer Woman</a>, let today be the day! She is a wonderful cook, photographer, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">homeschoolin</span>', country-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">livin</span>' mama who has made it HUGE in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">bloggy</span> world. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Anyhoo</span>, I made one of her specialties for Sunday dinner this last weekend and it was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">deeelish</span>! Enjoy!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2Ba3ZIsO86WI7MenF4k6q7fKSTmmOg7YkACOvfvESfblMj5NCZ8HvNYlBLMa50niGhKLPI-bTUUZZchxbswo4MIKY6CUFo9bcNnrPTXYnlsW_YEsqsnjXjcah_Djq-djz8Ofl-CABLg/s320/Pot-Roast-420x278.png" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589682871741879474" /><div><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" >Perfect Pot Roast</span></u></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; " ><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><b><u></u></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">1 whole</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">(4 To 5 Pounds) Chuck Roast</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">2 Tablespoons</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">Olive Oil</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">2 whole</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">Onions</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">6 whole</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">Carrots (Up To 8 Carrots)</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">Salt To Taste</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; " >Pepper To Taste</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">1 cup</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">Red Wine pr Beef Broth</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">2 cups</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">To 3 Cups Beef Stock</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">3 sprigs</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">Fresh Thyme, or more to taste</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="amount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">3 sprigs</span> <span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; ">Fresh Rosemary, or more to taste</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span itemprop="name" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; " ><br /></span></span></div><div><ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span">First and foremost, choose a nicely marbled piece of meat. This will enhance the flavor of your pot roast like nothing else. Generously salt and pepper </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">your chuck roast.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Then add 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or you can do a butter/olive oil split).</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">Cut two onions in half and cut 6 to 8 carrots into 2-inch slices (you can peel them, but you don’t have to). When the oil in the pot is very hot (but not smoking), add in the halved onions, browning them on one side and then the other. Remove the onions to a plate.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">Throw the carrots into the same very hot pan and toss them around a bit until slightly browned, about a minute or so.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">If needed, add a bit more olive oil to the very hot pan. Place the meat in the pan and sear it for about a minute on all sides until it is nice and brown all over. Remove the roast to a plate.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">With the burner still on high, use either red wine or beef broth (about 1 cup) to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">deglaze</span> the pan, scraping the bottom with a whisk to get all of that wonderful flavor up.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">When the bottom of the pan is sufficiently <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">deglazed</span>, place the roast back into the pan and add enough beef stock to cover the meat halfway (about 2 to 3 cups). Add in the onion and the carrots, as well as 3 or 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary and about 3 sprigs of fresh thyme.</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; ">Put the lid on, then roast in a 275F oven for 3 hours (for a 3-pound roast). For a 4 to 5-pound roast, plan on 4 hours.</span></span></li></ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;" >I served this with another great recipe from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Mashed-Potatoes/Detail.aspx">Allrecipes.com</a> that was perfect in that I could fix it the night before and just let it warm up during church. They were perfectly creamy and delicious... did I mention this is a mashed potatoes recipe? Ah, details!</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;" ><br /></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuG_LVoLFdvkimyiOzJ-lSBtHZwhcrRbOakT24pykQqvSQve8V58KFrD0UB73v09-4Gwn-HifQt3IHYYiRl4bSaC69NT-ZeBlnfmFNNwAOWOWzyj53iAW_jITAgtefZHvxbBkBkGjoepY/s320/43073.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 250px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589685721108652834" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;" ><b><u>Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes</u></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;" ><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><div class="ingredients" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; "><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; "><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >5 pounds red potatoes, cut into chunks</span></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >1 tablespoon minced garlic, or to taste</span></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >3 cubes chicken bouillon</span></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >1 (8 ounce) container sour cream</span></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened</span></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >1/2 cup butter</span></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >salt and pepper to taste</span></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></li></ul></div><div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; "><ol style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 16px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 16px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; list-style-type: decimal; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; "><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; line-height: 16px; "><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; " >In a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, cook the potatoes, garlic, and bouillon until potatoes are tender but firm, about 15 minutes. Drain, reserving water. In a bowl, mash potatoes with sour cream and cream cheese, adding reserved water as needed to attain desired consistency.</span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; line-height: 16px; "><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; word-wrap: break-word; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >Transfer the potato mixture to a slow cooker, cover, and cook on Low for 2 to 3 hours. Just before serving, stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.</span><br /></span></li></ol></div></span></span></b></span></div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8797803381530372199.post-24676823251890679152011-03-28T09:51:00.005-04:002011-03-28T10:26:14.595-04:00Skate Park Savvy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xVToR5HpPfu4yAnGodKXDBqsIotRF_RgwFHzSpB48jXZgiUy9HAjetUphTLZTRTEEK6niXkVPsr0F5Gfq0y07UB7u06nYUqvDD5o6OTBNf82cgxi6FxYAZvrq5J4Xgr6DscNHwazsTY/s1600/IMG_4343.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xVToR5HpPfu4yAnGodKXDBqsIotRF_RgwFHzSpB48jXZgiUy9HAjetUphTLZTRTEEK6niXkVPsr0F5Gfq0y07UB7u06nYUqvDD5o6OTBNf82cgxi6FxYAZvrq5J4Xgr6DscNHwazsTY/s320/IMG_4343.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589128278252358946" /></a>Somehow, between the nap and school schedules our field trip quota has been waaay down this year. As a result, it seems that screen time is at an all time high, as is general whiney-ness! (Big surprise!)<div><br /></div><div>In an effort to increase our joy and savor life a bit more we headed out of the house and got busy at <a href="http://www.zerogravityskatepark.com/">Zero Gravity Skatepark for Toddler Time</a>. They have a great thing going over there-- it's your typical indoor skatepark complete with lots of crazy ramps, bars, etc. Take away the skateboards and skater dudes and you have one totally awesome toddler playground. They even put in a little bounce house which is <i>always </i>a hit with little ones. </div><div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_QZecSN8Vjcfc3YaAUr3f5WV3SbBUv6z0BA13errXrPcEVplf7UZ9WyCwBIxdWd26Y0WLnpDOjr08XwCn4Xoz7KR4RW2EbOm82N8bumbXLfH2cW1qeebvIoPhhtSDMvlEDPR-JVF5Fc/s320/IMG_4341.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589128272802998754" /><div>Maxwell had a blast slipping and sliding all over the place and Cornelia was in baby heaven just crawling around getting filthy! :) Maxwell did take her down a few ramps, but nothing was quite as thrilling for her little ten month old self than freeeedoooom!</div><div><br /></div><div>Although it's only the end of March, I've started to set my sights on Summer vacation and just how we are going to manage keeping the whiney factor down and the fun factor up-- my solution (and this is not revolutionary by any means)-- STRUCTURE! I've started to think out a few fun idea for the summer months. I'm thinking that field trips are going to play a role and I'm thinking about trying to be a lot more deliberate in making our outings an educational experience too. </div><div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOaWidkbYv2IBZAwEhLcl6HgC8VRWkfkHH493jouWWStOK6TPmyTkBF05GUW7M2MPC3utwQJBxjLoK2ZDFvlY7Sq4mWHTvO23UnnZWvfhGkoFA9L7d54LJFE65IT0FCBGHT1y0PsyRnA/s320/IMG_4333.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589128273052082930" /><div>So here are my ideas and I'd love to hear more! Hit me with some comments peeps!</div><div><br /></div><div>1. <u>Notebook Time</u>: I plan to have a small spiral bound notebook for each of the older kiddos where each day we will draw a picture (or two) about what we've done that day and write a sentence about it. In Maxwell's case, I will write what he dictates and in Ruby's, she will write her own using "<a href="http://kidwriting.homestead.com/Questions.html">Kid-writing</a>". Not only will it be a great memory of our summer days, it will be great practice on some skills they have been working on at school. An added benefit is that it will help me be deliberate in making sure there's something super cool to draw each day!</div><div><br /></div><div>2. <u>Journey Around the World</u>: I found some great curriculum at our local library that will be a fun naptime event. The kids will have little passports and each day we get to visit a new place. They learn about the place by doing a craft, hearing a short story, or even making food from the country. I think it will be big fun for all of us.</div><div><br /></div><div>3. <u>Daily Devotionals and Bible Memory Verses</u>: We do some of this already, but I want to be more intentional about it and actually carve out time in our day to make it important and something we all look forward to, rather than just squeezed in here and there.</div><div><br /></div><div>4. <u>Hikes and Field Trips:</u> I found a great resource last year where kids can earn badges by doing little nature hikes and doing activities along the trail. Time to break out the Kelty pack and enjoy some great outdoors time!</div><div><br /></div><div>5. <u>Exploring our own backyard</u>: We have a great yard for kids. It is just hilarious to sit outside and listen to Ruby and Max exploring in the woods. They have a blast imagining all sorts of adventures and discovering new things. We also have a small creek on our property that may be fun to look for water bugs, etc. in. Maybe we can even take a field trip to Daddy's lab and look at the water through the microscope! </div><div><br /></div><div>Can you tell I'm excited for summer! Good thing Spring Break is just around the corner. We'll have to take some of my ideas for a test drive. </div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you are enjoying the onset of spring and getting excited about all family time to come!</div>Jaredhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06863515240478340321noreply@blogger.com0