tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26044930014874289142024-02-22T07:18:46.089-08:00Band of BrothersComingbandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.comBlogger576125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-50124133695536618482014-03-27T08:32:00.000-07:002014-03-27T08:32:37.397-07:00Salted Caramel Cake Recipe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hi! Just wanted to share my favorite new cake recipe...the salted caramel vanilla cake. I know there are many similar recipes out there. Basically I picked my favorite aspects of each recipe and added a few changes to make things easier for me.<br />
<br />
It's the perfect cake for all your upcoming spring festivities. YUM.<br />
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8v0jSearhwI/UzJzatS7Y4I/AAAAAAAAVMU/SJg4mLq4XGo/w800-h533-no/IMG_9769+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8v0jSearhwI/UzJzatS7Y4I/AAAAAAAAVMU/SJg4mLq4XGo/w800-h533-no/IMG_9769+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
It's pretty straightforward, even for a kitchen klutz like me. Well, I did screw up my first trial run, but that won't happen to you. I'll make sure of it.<br />
<br />
This recipe is for a two layer round cake. I was inspired by these <a href="http://us4.campaign-archive1.com/?u=702c8860df37a8151baaad991&id=fb7a45014e&e=b3c6f6052f">two</a> <a href="http://www.the-baker-chick.com/2013/08/salted-caramel-vanilla-bean-layer-cake/">recipes</a> but modified them to make it easier-- I am too lazy to make white cake from scratch so I used vanilla box cakes(Betty Crocker). Here are your basic ingredients:<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-R6eCvzrfLXM/UzNONFxGK6I/AAAAAAAAVPA/mRI_DCNhX3A/w800-h533-no/basic+ingreds.jpg" /><br />
I screwed up my first trial because my cake was too thin/short for all that caramel sauce. The cakes was drenched in caramel. Whoops. Just make your cake a little thicker/taller by adding a little more batter to your pans(buy two boxes of cake mix rather than 1). As a bonus, you can use any remaining batter for cupcakes!<br />
<br />
Super simple recipe for caramel sauce. </div>
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LLQFqgvSPlg/UzJye_nL_3I/AAAAAAAAVLw/hQGMhnO8cqY/w800-h533-no/recipe+caramel+sauce.jpg" /><br />
Set caramel sauce aside. Best at room temp.<br />
<br />
Frosting recipe:<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jy8BzZi7EZE/UzJye31VhQI/AAAAAAAAVL4/cKmf8mw7K2A/w800-h533-no/recipe+frosting.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-i6pHKQ7XXbI/UzM_NP0eHMI/AAAAAAAAVN0/APsjdrDG29c/w800-h533-no/IMG_9710+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-RcGbI-jqNlo/UzM_NuKghNI/AAAAAAAAVOE/R5yaxT29cgs/w800-h533-no/IMG_9722+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-PVTwDSPBxJs/UzJye0EoIkI/AAAAAAAAVL8/V0rxISrQLOk/w800-h533-no/assemble+cake.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Bottom layer with holes and caramel sauce:<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pN4gCsKIzys/UzM_NJxr7tI/AAAAAAAAVN4/C6JuoCPi5y0/w800-h533-no/IMG_9732+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Bottom layer frosted, sprinkled with sea salt.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-q4oKsXvipN0/UzM_OpNI1MI/AAAAAAAAVOQ/mWOpndOmtNI/w800-h533-no/IMG_9737+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Second layer cake added to first layer. Drizzled top with caramel.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-hMHL30qiS1s/UzM_OWhqS_I/AAAAAAAAVOM/5XuDDBNhMNg/w800-h533-no/IMG_9744+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Frost top layer and add Twix. Then drizzle more caramel in zig-zag pattern.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-luyy1kGF9C8/UzM_PfdbMlI/AAAAAAAAVOY/GeJkD96N3XA/w800-h533-no/IMG_9751+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I added a banner for a special friend's bday.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-psBwYQprmmc/UzNIoYxYcII/AAAAAAAAVOs/E0ViccJK_rc/w800-h600-no/cake.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Little flags for cupcakes.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-FlgVeO_eMIc/UzJzc_GdhII/AAAAAAAAVM4/O3u_hN2UwtY/w800-h533-no/IMG_9913+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Just hit the spot perfectly.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-PKx6lLQyIwE/UzJzd3UrAII/AAAAAAAAVNM/mUFIQ0FTga0/w800-h533-no/IMG_9988+copy.jpg" /></div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-41753014259676881952014-03-03T16:48:00.004-08:002014-03-03T16:50:27.592-08:00Making Room, Part Deux<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
cont. from <a href="http://littlebandofbrothers.blogspot.com/2014/02/making-room.html">Making Room</a><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-a4sbynAGJyE/UxUTIY22oEI/AAAAAAAAVAQ/ejQ4lvfQlAs/w800-h533-no/IMG_9661+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
After countless night of debating the room placement, John proposed an idea. It was the LAST place on earth I wanted, but I instantly knew it was our only option:<br />
<br />
He suggested cutting our family room in half{almost}, by installing 2 walls to close off the area by my yellow wallpaper.<br />
<br />
Now. You must know something. When we were looking for our first home 11 years ago, the main reason I selected this floor plan was because I liked the open family room.<br />
<br />
Another thing. I dislike walls. My dream home would consist of a gritty old warehouse with <u>zero</u> walls. With a few bedrooms lined up in back, ha. <br />
<br />
And now John wanted to cut our family room almost in half? And add...walls? Ack! Unthinkable.<br />
<br />
That night I went to bed feeling very unsettled, my thoughts boomerang-ing all over the place. In all of this, God was working. You see, He saw something that I didn't--that I was holding on<i> too tight</i> to my earthly possessions. And that night, my eyes were opened to the truth. People everywhere have MUCH smaller houses than I do. How could I be so spoiled? Blerg. Stupid materialism. I didn't want to be like that anymore.<br />
<br />
You could say I had a total change of heart that night. I was ready to get on board with John's idea. John was giving me the GREEN LIGHT to add a room so we could adopt...I'd be crazy not to take his offer and RUN with it.<br />
<br />
And I knew the second I saw the child, any room debates would seem ridiculous in comparison. Kid trumps house a million times over.<br />
<br />
I fell asleep with a huge smile on my face. I woke up the next morning, in shock over my decision. But for the life of me, I could not wipe that smile off my face.<br />
<br />
I was discussing this with my neighbor Patty and she said "We weren't mean to be deep oaks planted here on earth, but rather tumbleweeds, blowing here and there scattering seeds of the gospel. And using our homes as a tool to bless others". Wise words.<br />
<br />
The next few weeks were a flurry of calls to prospective builders. Excitement was in the air!<br />
<br />
<i>Until I got my first formal estimate.</i><br />
<br />
It was <i>thousands</i> more than anticipated. Like quadruple the amount I expected. It felt like a punch to the gut. I wanted to cry.<br />
<br />
When I told John, he sighed "Well, it will take us a while to save up for that!"<br />
<br />
"Can't we take out a loan?", I pleaded.<br />
<br />
But John just wasn't comfortable with borrowing such a large amount.<br />
<br />
A few weeks later, I decided to get another estimate. My friend Carrie recommended her builder, Jeremy Gustafson--the man who changed everything.<br />
<br />
It was December. I was sipping cider at small group when my cell phone rang, with Jeremy's estimate. It was <i>less than half</i> the price of the first estimate, praise the Lord! We were back in business! Best.Christmas.Ever.<br />
<br />
Construction began early February. In 2 weeks, my house went from this<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9IkiQ6W1ors/UxUTY-N-HOI/AAAAAAAAVA0/tJBMVNMA7hU/w800-h600-no/before+counter.jpg" /><br />
<br />
to this<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gYKVvbD6Vj8/UxUXclgD7lI/AAAAAAAAVBI/WO53W9if74E/w800-h533-no/IMG_8255+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
to this<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XgtqcJH4dZ0/UxUTFhohusI/AAAAAAAAU_s/psIV1D1N6N4/w800-h533-no/IMG_8530+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lupKEAHC2Ts/UxUXhvFCv_I/AAAAAAAAVBc/0J8C8n3FPe4/w800-h533-no/IMG_8528+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
to this<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Saxr4zhZENE/UxUY7eP-zmI/AAAAAAAAVBo/yri8AthXtS4/w800-h533-no/IMG_9595.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m-DEhd8R4A4/UxUTG8YSbZI/AAAAAAAAU_8/gSo8KVzU6p8/w800-h533-no/IMG_9634+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KcJ2mVBvjWg/UxUTEpEKaTI/AAAAAAAAU_g/mcR3e1NJM44/w800-h533-no/IMG_9604+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-VDc6KjXVkCg/UxUTHlKj5yI/AAAAAAAAVAE/F_83JaJ27cs/w800-h533-no/IMG_9644+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I thought I would feel completely claustrophobic once the drywall went up but...surprise...I kind of like it! Jeremy was MOST awesome. He always stayed after to make sure each job was done <i>just</i> right and that everything was clean and tidy. Plus he was super sweet and kind, especially to my wild boys running around. <br />
<br />
We are all excited about the new room (Blue couch is not staying here).<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-di8IuIX4Ku4/UxUTKWB0JEI/AAAAAAAAVAk/avCKkAcGz-E/w800-h533-no/IMG_9669+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PQd1S2VYw9U/UxUTGGTIqhI/AAAAAAAAU_0/MQxrmEvRnvI/w800-h533-no/IMG_9613+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
There is another door to exit to the bathroom.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mDx9hRwjtz0/UxUTJQ3Ja5I/AAAAAAAAVAc/B4qT91XVfAI/w800-h533-no/IMG_9684+copy+words.jpg" /><br />
<br />
But I realize that to the adopted child, this room is just an insignificant consolation prize. This child will have gone through <i>so much loss</i> to have gotten here. Loss of parents. Their culture. Extended family. Familiarity. Everything. I picture Twain standing forlornly with his blankie(or any of my boys) in this position and feel sick.<br />
<br />
One night before bed, John urgently told me "We need to be praying for this child. It could be out there, somewhere". And then he prayed the sweetest prayer and tears rolled down my cheeks onto my pillow. His prayer showed me he was really invested.<br />
<br />
Kiononia told us, "You are signing up for heartbreak. We expect you to get attached". <i>During the "foster phase", the child can be returned to their birth parents.</i><br />
<br />
Despite this I can't help but feel optimistic. It's just my nature. I know it will be hard but I'm hoping that in the end, we will hold in our arms the child God picked for us.<br />
<br />
p.s. Next week someone from Koinonia is coming for my first home inspection! Eeek!</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-75025988525802348322014-02-27T16:01:00.001-08:002014-02-28T13:50:56.084-08:00Making Room...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
...in our hearts and our home in hopes of adopting a child.</div>
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Oant9JccrK4/Uw7II-viQqI/AAAAAAAAU9E/bt4DGHUjtRs/w800-h533-no/IMG_8251+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Since November, we have been pursuing adoption, <i>if the Lord wills</i>.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure exactly why I've been so hesitant to blog about our adoption journey, until now. I think I didn't want to throw it all out there online, in case it didn't happen. I guess it ultimately boils down to this:<br />
<br />
Control. Or lack thereof.<br />
<br />
There are just <u>so</u> <u>many</u> <u>factors</u> about adoption that are completely out of my control. But guess what? I've learned this week that control is just an illusion. Nothing is "for sure" in this life. <br />
<br />
I don't have all the answers and I have no idea how this adoption thing is all going to pan out. But I do know that we are hoping and trying...and that it's in God's hands.<br />
<br />
We are going through a local organization called Koinonia to "foster-to-adopt" and have already completed orientation, two {amazing}training sessions...a CPR class...filled out more paperwork than I thought was humanly possible(like, did you know that your animals need their rabies shot records in order to adopt?). We are about to start the "home-study" part of the process very soon. Not quite sure of the timeline but we are plugging along. <br />
<br />
But let me back up and tell you how this all came about.<br />
_______________________<br />
I've always wanted to adopt. Or at least I've always said <i>so</i>. But there came a point when my words started ringing empty in my ears. It was time to take a step toward making this a reality. It's been my motto in life, that if you feel led to do something, it's better to try and go down in a blaze of glory than to risk nothing, for fear of failure. (Of course above this, there is God's will and leading).<br />
<br />
****revised! I TOTALLY think it's still great to say you want to adopt...even if you can't right now or ever for that matter . From even my own short experience of this process I am acutely aware that are many many hard factors which make people unable to adopt even if it were their hearts deep desire. Just wanted to clarify that:)****<br />
<br />
Twain(my youngest) is 4 going on 5. The timing just seemed right.<br />
<br />
Last summer, I started calling agencies and gathering information.<br />
<br />
I live in a 3-bedroom house(This is actually kind of crucial).<br />
And have 4 boys. Two boys in the 1st room and 2 boys in the 2nd room. John and I share the master, obviously.<br />
<br />
According to CA state law I would need an additional bedroom to adopt a child(only 2 kids allowed per room).<br />
Or I would have to move to a different house with 4 bedrooms.<br />
We just weren't in the position to move.<br />
John predicted that adding a bedroom to our house would cost $35,000 or more.<br />
Money we certainly did not have. Things looked dismal.<br />
Doors were starting to shut.<br />
I was supremely disappointed.<br />
<br />
But something inside me refused to give up hope. There had to be some way. Money seemed like such a lame obstacle(though a very real and overwhelming aspect).<br />
<br />
Weeks and weeks passed.<br />
<br />
I distinctly remember sitting across from John at CPK one evening for dinner. I told him, "I reallllllly want to adopt! Let's find a way!"<br />
<br />
John kind of smiled and said "I want to go back to school."<br />
<br />
<i>Wah-wah-waaaah went the sad trombone.</i><br />
<br />
Obviously we were NOT on the same page with major life decisions. John wanted to continue teaching high school full-time...plus go back to college for a degree in geology, of all things. I was like, really?<br />
<br />
But as his wife, I just didn't feel it would be right for me to nag and push my weight around trying to get my own way.<br />
<br />
And my heart just sank, because I knew the right thing to do... and didn't really want to do it.<br />
<br />
I knew that God could not honor my desire to adopt by "pushing" when the time wasn't right. So I decided I would have to sit back patiently...and wait. Was it going to be years of waiting? I did not know.<br />
<br />
It just felt like another door slamming in my face, but at least I felt at peace.<br />
<br />
So more weeks passed.<br />
<br />
Leaves turned orange and fell to the ground. John started his geology classes and I started homeschooling Ollie. I was expecting a ton of work, exhaustion, super late nights and stress, for John.<br />
But none of that happened. In fact, things were strangely smooth.<br />
<br />
One night I overheard John ask the boys, "Do you guys want another sibling?"<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mhGSguOmt5g/Uw7IKjlAkFI/AAAAAAAAU9Q/GvcCffeIcIA/w800-h533-no/IMG_8327+copy2.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I was pretty surprised by his question to the boys, but just held my breath and kept my mouth shut.<br />
<br />
And then another night he asked them again. And again. This time, "Do you boys want a sister?"<br />
<br />
"We want a girl dog", <i>giggle giggle</i>! And Ollie might have mentioned wanting another cat/sister(wink).<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-inuCGxVLO3Y/Uw-z-53XIpI/AAAAAAAAU-U/6Mh79BX38Jg/w800-h533-no/IMG_8294+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CkJGeMcnQeg/Uw7IIKVH78I/AAAAAAAAU9A/2COJlShyAPU/w800-h533-no/IMG_8306+copy.jpg" /><br />
I'm not sure what changed but John was suddenly very open to the idea of adopting.<br />
<br />
There was still the obstacle of the additional {4th} bedroom, though.<br />
<br />
I was in my front yard discussing my hopes and dreams with my neighbor and she was like "Davi. Just get an estimate. And put that number in your back pocket for a rainy day".<br />
<br />
An estimate. Hm. I could do that.<br />
<br />
It seemed obvious to me that the additional room should go on my front porch. (That is where the builders had suggested placing a "bonus room", on our floor plan, 11 years ago when our house was first built).<br />
<br />
But this would be costly, as it would require changing the roofline.<br />
<br />
In the meanwhile, I started brain-storming cheaper ways of squeezing an extra bedroom in my house.<br />
I suggested converting our big master closet into a bedroom.<br />
John said no.<br />
I suggested cutting our master bedroom into 2 rooms.<br />
John said "No, I need my space". As he leaned back with his arms behind his head.<br />
I threw my hands up in the air. Such a prince, lol. My husband is one of 3 boys and refused to wear hand-me-downs as a kid.<i> It's funny because if you knew him now, he's super unspoiled and practical. </i><br />
I suggested re-locating John and myself into one of the kid bedrooms, and converting our master bedroom into 2 rooms for all 4 boys to share.<br />
"No. No. No. Davi", John says, shaking his head. I cannot tell you how many late nights we spent *debating* possible room arrangements.<br />
<br />
And then John suggested something quite odd, in my honest opinion. Something I <i>wasn't too sure about</i>. But it was very interesting all the same.<br />
<br />
<i>To be continued...</i></div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-78085093158734139942014-01-31T17:17:00.001-08:002014-01-31T17:46:15.233-08:00on why i won't tail your car. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Ummm hi. I supposed I ought to be ashamed of myself for my unexplained leave of absence.<br />
<br />
Quotes posted on my facebook page from my sisters: "So I checked out your blog today. Cobwebs and tumble weeds blowing by...just saying."<br />
<br />
and "Yea, I think I heard a lone wolf howl sadly when I checked it earlier. Nobody even howled back."<br />
<br />
and "So, no pressure, but your blog is lonely. FYI."<br />
<br />
Gotta love sisters!<br />
<br />
I just needed a break after blogging 6 years straight. Sorry I didn't say "Hey, I'm taking a break!"...But at the time, I really didn't mean to stop and it felt so drastic to say anything, so I just went into denial and stuck my head in the sand and vanished.<br />
<br />
Popping my head back out though and thankfully blogger didn't require a new magic password.<br />
<br />
Took a road trip up to mama's house yesterday to help her recover from surgery.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-yQgHHvQ3IUU/Uus-vR5-uTI/AAAAAAAAUv0/zs1J3-dGmbk/w800-h533-no/IMG_8215+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Did a little schooling by the fire, which warmed my heart.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-uMEx0E3ae9g/Uuw-RHFZQpI/AAAAAAAAUxY/4ey-dX7BuMM/w800-h533-no/IMG_8058+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QKFrRrMuOaw/Uuw-RpAwWmI/AAAAAAAAUxc/jvNKao6ydMI/w800-h533-no/IMG_8062+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Mom took a beautiful walk outside with us. So proud of her.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YQhOdfr94Bc/Uuw-SUh17kI/AAAAAAAAUxk/9Ay1KC9nLlE/w800-h533-no/IMG_8098+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Yesterday we sat on her bed and she told me a thing or two that really hit me.<br />
<br />
She had listened to a talk by Joni Eareckson Tada that morning, and wanted to tell me about it.<br />
<br />
I kinda braced myself and held my breath...Joni is intense.<br />
<br />
<i>For those of you unfamiliar with Joni, she dived into water that was too shallow and broke her neck...and is now a parapalegic. When she was younger, she tried to kill herself a few times, because she couldn't handle being paralyzed. She prayed "Lord, if I can't die, please help me live" and that was the turning point in her life, for the better. </i><br />
<br />
People often ask her "Aren't you so excited to get to heaven and walk?"<br />
<br />
At one point in her life she would have said "YES". She had even pursued healing.<br />
<br />
But now? Things have changed. She feels she HAS received healing...but a deeper sort of healing that only few attain. She is grateful for her trials, which have squeezed all her sin and pride out of her, to bring that deeper healing...to bring her to the point where she can honestly say, that when she gets to heaven, <i><u><b>she doesn't even care about walking</b>.</u></i> All she wants to do in heaven is have a <i><u><b>heart that brings God glory</b></u></i>.<br />
<br />
Wow, what?! How does someone even get to that point to have such a good attitude. I just sat there stunned and inspired. Mom and I sat on her bed, crying {and laughing} that we were crying.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DOzf6_xkM3Y/Uuw-NZdyy3I/AAAAAAAAUxM/YbNMi1GynYw/w800-h600-no/boys1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Meet Rufio, their crazed goat.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-VmkaZPjHxLI/Uuw-aRllhuI/AAAAAAAAUxw/z3tgIUGj2SQ/w800-h533-no/IMG_8181+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xyc5dHXbmDA/Uuw-NBLA6kI/AAAAAAAAUxI/tqs1pgfO8RA/w800-h425-no/boys+2.jpg" /><br />
As I drove home that night up a windy road, a truck pulled in front of me, going 2 miles an hour.<br />
<br />
Now, I am not an aggressive driver, but this was just too much annoyance for even me to bear.<br />
<br />
I started to tail him. Just a little. I was feeling a little rushed and stressed and wanted to make it over the pass before it snowed, and this was just too much. HURRY UP TRUCK!<br />
<br />
And then I thought of Joni. And how all she desired was a heart that brought HIM glory.<br />
<br />
Was my heart bringing God glory right now?<br />
<br />
No. I was being selfish and worried.<br />
<br />
All of a sudden, my feisty rage drained right out of me. I prayed silently "Lord please help me love this man, who is doing his best to drive. Please help me trust you to get home, despite the weather conditions".<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAlq3Is3WB3brn_5R1YySwJrbmq-S03NZYKxnGcBY0kg78y_nqNOnvYcl4WIfkTlNfsYrOsq3Qg9lZs9aKFkCg0axWxsdoxh83nwIx4KYxz_GfofB5Pg2ypnkhFMqUc0Nbxugw_GlgX1A/w800-h533-no/IMG_8163+copy.jpg" /><br />
And then I thought of a broken relationship that had been grieving me for some time. And I realized that my heart was not bringing glory to God in that either. I realized I had been holding on to hurt feelings and pride...stubborn pride...because things hadn't gone the way I wanted it to, so therefore I wasn't going to let things go{completely} in my heart of hearts.<br />
<br />
And all of a sudden, I felt all that pride drain completely out of me. Because I would rather have my heart bring God glory than hold onto a stupid grudge.<br />
<br />
And I was left sitting in my car, feeling empty and drained of everything...there was nothing left to me. Yet I never felt so whole. And feeling optimistic and hopeful that God can bring deeper healing to the most stubborn of hearts. </div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-11137327817480511762013-11-01T15:19:00.001-07:002013-11-01T15:59:25.301-07:00Hobbits <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">This year for Halloween, I thought it would be fun to dress up as hobbits.<br />
<br />
My parents read the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings(LOTR) to me when I was a kid. I remember playing with my smurfs...in their Lincoln Log homes...while my parents took turns reading. So I just grew up with this stuff.<br />
<br />
I got most of their clothes at the Goodwill or Salvation army, with the exception of 2 vests I had to buy. And I just had to make the capes. </div><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-yYIK4jt3wLY/UnQd7gUTklI/AAAAAAAAUFA/8gfzAFMrt1Y/w800-h533-no/01.jpg" /><br />
The capes were a little tricky at first because I am lame and do not understand online tutorials at all. They seemed so vague and/or complicated to me. Plus, I just don't really sew clothes. So I just did the best I could to follow <a href="http://www.falafelandthebee.com/2012/11/13/choices-and-hobbit-cloaks-and-a-small-tutorial/">this tutorial</a>. However, I did not understand her method for the hood, so I just traced one of our hoodies at home and sewed it to the cape. Very simple. One day when I have time, I would love to post a simple, clear tutorial for the inexperienced seamstresses out there like me;)<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tdJA2ArgOaE/UnQcpdm5pqI/AAAAAAAAUCk/6d5grbCFAbs/w800-h533-no/03.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Ollie is cracking me up these days. We have been learning to read(using a book my sister recommended, called Learning to Read in 100 Easy Lessons). I love love love this book. So simple to follow and it builds up sounds so gradually...Ollie doesn't even realize he's learning to read. When Ollie was diagnosed with an auditory processing disorder, we were told that kids with his condition are likely to have trouble learning to read, write and do arithmatic. You know. Basically EVERYTHING in grade school. So I'm just excited that we are using a reading curriculum that doesn't stress us out. <br />
<br />
Anyway, I bought some Bob books a while back and decided Ollie should practice with them. After I congratulated him on reading his first Bob book, he looked thoroughly unimpressed and muttered, "but it's not The Hobbit". In time, little halfling, in time.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Wz_dEhP2LHs/UnQcq0mxSMI/AAAAAAAAUC8/QeUW5xCqhoU/w800-h533-no/04.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Qnp11Rdbego/UnQfvL-V4DI/AAAAAAAAUFQ/4xpWjoAGJP4/w800-h600-no/cal+hobbits.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-qrunhUPT8R4/UnQcryzYY2I/AAAAAAAAUDI/w-31r7PobYo/w800-h533-no/06.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Hairy feet were a MUST, according to my mama.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GLK6nb6WZ6Q/UnQctmG6d7I/AAAAAAAAUDc/OweVhxhVgx4/w800-h533-no/07.jpg" /><br />
I first tried to make hairy feet from yarn, but they were a dismal failure. John said I needed tufts of rabbit fur. So I bought some mulit-colored fur at Joanns and cut it up and hot glued it onto flesh-colored felt. And held the felt in place with their sandal straps. The felt kept slipping around, so I'd recommend attaching it with elastic or something.<br />
<br />
Hobbits fleeing the Shire.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JGuiChLHWtE/UnQcskIH18I/AAAAAAAAUDQ/UP_zkaEI-Fg/w800-h533-no/08.jpg" /><br />
<br />
One Ring to rule them all...<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ofSFnvJEv4c/UnQcuCiDkxI/AAAAAAAAUDk/lgEbjkV54Bo/w800-h533-no/09.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Joining my halflings in Rivendale.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JLOLAgY-yTA/UnQyHxZUm-I/AAAAAAAAUFk/olXfoqzKpXQ/w800-h533-no/10.jpg" /><br />
Remember <a href="http://littlebandofbrothers.blogspot.com/2013/10/on-why-im-wearing-anawesome-jumpsuit.html">my jumpsuit</a>? Well, now it's a dress. I just seam-ripped the legs and quickly re-stitched the appropriate sides to make it into a dress. It only took like 10 minutes or so. Nothing fancy. And then I hemmed it.<br />
<br />
Bought them "satchels" for their candy at the Goodwill for a few bucks.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ArOPCph692Y/UnQcw3b1tII/AAAAAAAAUEA/BncqReaS_RA/w800-h533-no/11.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Yycmu9JvIwg/UnQcw6oIzfI/AAAAAAAAUEE/RXwZPdvIZGI/w800-h533-no/12.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DBZbIoJEj3c/UnQcwNFF4TI/AAAAAAAAUDw/GZYTQjqfuPA/w800-h533-no/13.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Sam and Frodo<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Iw5FmzEVrbY/UnQcxlgS8oI/AAAAAAAAUEI/C46w6U_njFk/w800-h533-no/14.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Quarreling over the Ring. Ut oh.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-12MSqQiFTbw/UnQcytB8NmI/AAAAAAAAUEQ/RAeVdtFxxAI/w800-h533-no/15.jpg" /><br />
<br />
At the White City, Minas Tirith.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FY1L6Av3zhc/UnQcz6LbSWI/AAAAAAAAUEc/Kwm0B0oQ1dI/w800-h533-no/16.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1y9mV3j695s/UnQc0i-7FRI/AAAAAAAAUEk/MujARuaSz6U/w800-h533-no/17.jpg" /><br />
<br />
A hobbit bows to no one--except the One true Lord:) I am training my hobbits to love Jesus.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-utWTBVnH5Mg/UnQc1G_0_OI/AAAAAAAAUEo/1ryXv_wcWFA/w800-h533-no/18.jpg" /></div>We had WAY TOO MUCH fun this year. My 3 younger boys just begged to put their costumes back on. So we might be hobbits for a while longer. I hope you had a Happy Halloween!</div>bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-50008228195944309722013-10-09T06:00:00.000-07:002013-10-09T06:00:10.899-07:00on rug tape<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Meet my new friend, rug tape. I bought it at Lowes, in hopes of helping my new rug stick to the carpet...instead of using a rug pad...which I hear doesn't work so hot. </div>
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-67ybOMv2gpQ/UlTy01IfIyI/AAAAAAAATyU/8nWcM8ztcIA/w800-h533-no/IMG_8232.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Let me back up a tad. Remember I told you that I was returning my Urban Outfitters arrowhead rug because the ends were curling and the paint was feeling off? Well I did. Return the rug, that is.<br />
<br />
I immediately began looking for a replacement rug.<br />
<br />
I searched high and low.<br />
1. I wanted something black and white.<br />
2. With a fun pattern.<br />
3. And a sturdy composition.<br />
<br />
Well, turns out that trifecto of criteria did not exist in my neck of the woods. I'm sure it exists somewhere, but I couldn't easily find it in the size I wanted.<br />
<br />
I did find a fun black and white-ish rug from <a href="http://patternsociety.com/shop/camp-rug">Pattern Society</a> though. It was more than I wanted to spend and less sturdy than I desired, but I was tired of looking. So I bought it with some hard earned money.<br />
<br />
When I got the rug, I decided to plaster the snot out of it with rug tape, in attempts of making it STAY PUT. I have 4 little boys, people. THIS IS NOT AN EASY feat to accomplish.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DZtNM0vcaCY/UlTy3yEakSI/AAAAAAAATys/_ZiPqVWGI8w/w800-h533-no/IMG_8238.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Yup, all those thick grey lines going up and down the rug are RUG TAPE.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FZYFb8tbEus/UlTy20RLtzI/AAAAAAAATyg/APW-0lgMpto/w800-h533-no/IMG_8235.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I think I used 4 or 5 rolls of rug tape to make this "mock" padding underneath my rug.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6B8jVJd_4Fg/UlTy0qmteZI/AAAAAAAATyM/vR-CGZSzVww/w800-h533-no/IMG_8233.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Then I turned it over. Plop.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gDymKG3sRbg/UlTy3QaEBRI/AAAAAAAATyo/ViGaVsKSfYQ/w800-h533-no/IMG_8240.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And it has stayed relatively PUT. If like 8 kids(ahem my sister and my kids) converge on it at once, it will rumple and blump a little...but so far I'm pleased.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t8R1E6iFB60/UlTy0UcaYFI/AAAAAAAATyQ/Oy3ZsVSZCa4/w800-h533-no/IMG_8230.jpg" /><br />
I occasionally have to straighten it a little here and there(and it still blumps a little here and there), but overall, this set up is actually working MUCH better than the Urban rug, which didn't have rug tape.<br />
<br />
So in a few weeks, I will let you know if I am still satisfied. Until then, carry on.<br />
<br />
>>>>>>><<<<<<<<br />
Oh and a little update on being rear-ended in my van...<br />
<br />
All-in-all the recovery turned out more exhausting than expected. Finn, Calvin and I had headaches but thankfully those are passing.<br />
<br />
Dr. Willis adjusted my back and it feels MUCH better.<br />
<br />
But mentally? Ug. What a roller coaster. One minute I'm fine, and the next I'm all skittish.<br />
<br />
I no longer like to drive and I now get road rage whenever someone tails me or cuts me off abruptly. Which happens A LOT.<br />
<br />
And sleep is a joke. I haven't slept well AT ALL. One night I woke up screaming in terror and was CONVINCED I was about to fly to Jesus. My heart was pounding out of my chest, and I felt like blacking out.. and I urgently told John, "I am going to die!"<br />
<br />
He patted my head and said "You are fine, go back to sleep honey".<br />
<br />
"No, I am dying!", I insisted.<br />
<br />
Well, I ended up getting checked out at the ER just in case. It was a thrilling night for sure: An EKG, tons of bloodwork and an xray. They said I was fine...just stress related from accident...massive panic attack and whatnot. Huh? OkeeDokee.<br />
<br />
I think I probably had whiplash or <i>maybe</i> even a teeny tiny concussion(possibly) from how I felt all week. Just plain old MEH. But who knows. I've heard stress can mimic the effects of being poisoned.<br />
<br />
The thing that has helped me most is my Jesus Calling devotional. It said something like, "Don't despise this weakness in yourself, since I am using it to draw you closer to me".<br />
<br />
And from Precepts we are learning some treasures for God's children in I Peter 1.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
"May grace and PEACE be yours in fullest measure" </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
I Peter 1:2</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Do you hear that? As God's kids we CAN have peace in <u>fullest measure</u>! So every time I start to feel myself get scared, I just start repeating and praying this verse to myself.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Also, another gem I've been praying on all week.</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
"You, who are protected by the power of God through faith"</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
I Peter 1:5</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
God's word is our main defense. He is in charge and we must rest in that. </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So today I felt tired and drained and the kids threw lots of fits...but after I put them to bed, I magically started feeling a LOT better. Imagine that?! KIDS!!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I hope you are all leaning on God through this crazy thing called life. </div>
</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-29420850860989671302013-10-01T21:33:00.002-07:002013-10-01T21:56:42.804-07:00on why i'm wearing an{awesome} jumpsuit.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Monday morning started with quite the bang, literally.<br />
<br />
It was 7:20am, time to drive Finny and Cal to school.<br />
<br />
I pulled out of our neighborhood, onto a busy street.<br />
I pulled up to a red light and was trying to turn right.<br />
I crept my van forward but at the last minute decided to wait. There was a speeding car coming and I didn't want to cut it off.<br />
In the split second that I made the above decision, I simultaneously heard a loud crash and felt a sharp slap to my lower back.<br />
I had just been rear ended. With all 4 boys in the car.<br />
For a second I could only think of my pain. And then I quickly realized that my boys were strangely quiet.<br />
I quickly turned to them "Are you guys ok???!!!"<br />
"Yes, mommy", they said in shock.<br />
I didn't want to block the intersection, so I drove slowly, waiting for a chance to pull over.<br />
I noticed the other car following.<br />
We eventually pulled into a police station, which was closed til 9am. Bummer.<br />
We both got out of our cars. At this point. I was completely shaken up and could not think clearly at all. I just remember telling her(it was a lady) "My back really hurts.".<br />
The lady kept saying "I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry". Followed by "I was running late and was rushing. I should have slowed down. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry". Over and over again.<br />
<br />
I looked at her with sympathy and my eyes were trying to tell her "It's ok. Jesus loves you". But my brain wasn't working. And all I could get out was "It's ok. It's ok". I'm sad I didn't tell her "Jesus loves you."<br />
<br />
We exchanged info and I drove straight home, to carefully observe my boys for any signs of injury.<br />
Finn was excited and started texting family and friends from his ipod, "We were in an accident!<br />
<br />
Of course I had no idea he was doing this and started fielding frantic calls from friends and family.<br />
<br />
I called John and was like "Come home! Now! I need to get scanned!" And he was like "I have a whole class here looking at me". I remember saying "I don't really care about your class!"(Whoops, not nice).<br />
I called my sister, who used to work in insurance.<br />
I called Dr. Willis who prescribed aconite for shock and arnica for swelling. She said "Hundreds of people are rear-ended every day. From the speeds you were going, you guys will be ok. Try to get your day back to normal or you will make things worse". I made an appointment to get adjusted, and hung up, feeling somewhat better.<br />
I called the rest of my immediate family.<br />
And then got my day back to normal.<br />
<br />
While homeschooling Ollie, I heard a "tap tap" at the door. And whatdoyouknow. Miss <a href="http://www.scottandlorie.blogspot.com/">Lorieloo</a> was at the door with bright chipper sunflowers for me. I almost cried. That sweet gesture of bringing me flowers helped brighten my day and ease my pain more than medicine ever could. <i>Thanks so much Lorie. Incredibly thoughtful of you. </i>It wouldn't have occurred to me to bring flowers to someone who was just rear-ended.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xK03qWs-hd4/UkphZNYrrzI/AAAAAAAATrg/2OSwudErTdI/w800-h533-no/IMG_8118+copy.jpg" /><br />
As they day wore on, the pain in my back came and went. Sometimes it was barely noticeable...other times it felt tight, sore and heavy...for lack of a better description.<br />
That evening I tried some light exercises, thinking it would help loosen things up.<br />
It did NOT help.<br />
When I lay down to sleep that night, my back just felt so bad. In bible study and church we have been learning about suffering. And how to rejoice in suffering. And how we should run to God in our pain, not from Him. I know this back suffering pales in comparison to what some are going through. But it has been teaching me some things.<br />
<br />
Like in precepts we are learning "we should not be surprised by trials, as though something strange was happening to us." I Peter 4:12<br />
<br />
In actuality, I was NOT surprised by getting rear-ended this morning. In fact, I had strangely been anticipating it.<br />
<br />
And when the pain in my back intensified that night, I was tempted to start worrying about how I would get through the next day. But I was reminded that I should embrace this suffering. I remembered my pastor saying it was all about perspective. When we view suffering correctly, it makes all the difference in the world. <br />
<br />
We need to view it as a necessary part of life to grow us more like Jesus and give glory to God.<br />
<br />
And when we are tested and tempted to question God's goodness we need to pray, "Lord, I know you are good but I don't feel it. Give me eyes to believe. Increase my faith."<br />
<br />
For whatever reason, this shift in thinking helped snap me out of my anxiety. Instead of worrying about the pain that will come tomorrow, I just embraced the suffering and tried to take joy in my little trial.<br />
>>>><<<<<br />
On a lighter note, let's talk about Halloween costumes!<br />
<br />
My 4 boys are going to be hobbits and I could not be more excited! I initially bought a store-bought Hobbit costume but even John thought it was too chintzy for the price. So I went to the Salvation army and Goodwill and scoured out some more authentic looking Hobbit clothes:<br />
vests<br />
white dress shirts<br />
knickers<br />
and I'm making them cloaks from fabric I bought at Joann's.<br />
Of course hairy feet are a must.<br />
<br />
While perusing the Goodwill, I came across this fabulously hideous "Arwen" costume for $9.99. I mean, how could I NOT buy it???!!!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Xptc6A0obfo/Ukpm5GSEBWI/AAAAAAAATsE/uQ3alN9ZO6g/w800-h533-no/IMG_8156+copy.jpg" /><br />
My sister Jessica said the pants were practical for climbing trees. Ya know. When battling orcs and such.<br />
<br />
I bought the costume, <i>determined</i> to change the pants into a skirt. Somehow.<br />
<br />
John said I had to take a picture of the jumpsuit(I think he likes it) before altering it, so here I am!<br />
<br />
I had Finn snap a few pics in the front yard because it was too dark in the backyard. Pretty much all our neighbor friends ended up seeing me, adults included. Because I'm awkward like that.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-reYkPz_SGOM/UkuTshLDUvI/AAAAAAAATsk/ttIL-XUWCQ4/w800-h533-no/IMG_8158+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Here is a neighbor dad coming to collect his son, Paul. And here I am.. in my jumpsuit.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-R53S3nKARSE/Ukpm4yjc57I/AAAAAAAATsA/m4Fx7YLTscw/w800-h533-no/IMG_8162+copy.jpg" /><br />
Paul then ran inside his house and said "Mommy, mommy! Miss Davi is outside in a beautiful Arwen gown! You have to come <i>see her</i>!" So his mother came out to see me as well. Baha.<br />
<br />
I looked quite the spectacle. But that's ok. The children were all delighted. I do what I can to bring neighborhood cheer(wink). Besides. I was just rear-ended, so I figured I was given a free pass that day. </div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-19797764402226495972013-09-27T06:00:00.000-07:002013-09-27T11:54:04.917-07:00what's picture day like at your house?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's that time of year again.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When the holidays are just around the corner and life gets crazy festive whacko. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I thought it would be a great idea to do our family photos early this year. <a href="http://www.scottandlorie.blogspot.com/">Lorieloo</a> agreed to take us on, bless her heart. We are a squirrely crew, with 4 boys and all. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Around a week before photo time, I realized that my boys' shirts were getting all worn out(and didn't match with my stuff, lol), so I decided to order some new tees on etsy. I knew we were cutting it close with shipping and all.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
The day<i> before</i> my shoot with Lorie, my package did not come. Stress. I started tracking the package and it was stuck somewhere in Goleta, CA, with little chance of arriving on time. I was bummed but decided not to stress. I didn't want to turn this whole photoshoot into an idol, if you know what I mean. Lorie said she could shoot us later, if need be. Seriously, she is the sweetest. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But morning of, my package miraculously arrived and we were ON! Wahoo!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-hMPuarjGsrE/Uj-CjpJDTxI/AAAAAAAATlU/UE4NmEeFPkc/w800-h425-no/pics+1.jpg" /><br />
I normally have clothes selected ahead of time, but this year I was kinda flying by the seat of my pants. I had a last minute wardrobe change myself and drove to Forever 21 to buy a new top. I highly recommend picking out your clothes at least a day or 2 in advance, if not even sooner. But whatevs. All is well that ends well.<br />
<br />
A few days later, Loriloo texts me the following:<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YErh8nWgbn8/Uj-Ci8Xf5ZI/AAAAAAAATlI/z70ojtPF-YI/w800-h425-no/photo+2.jpg" /><br />
Because that's what real friends do: they photoshop your zits, ha.<br />
<br />
And how cute is Lorie with her photo disk packaging?! Thanks dearest Loo. I'm so grateful for your talents!<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2LqM0dFyIkY/UkUVa4KGBHI/AAAAAAAATnk/3jqL6Dlrh_E/w800-h533-no/IMG_8019.jpg" /><br />
So what is photo day like at your house? Do you get clothes ahead of time or the day of? Is it relaxed or crazy?<br />
<br />
In other news, John made some honeycomb shelves for my bday, from <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2012/06/diy-honeycomb-shelves.html">A Beautiful Mess blog</a>. They were harder than anticipated but my stud of a husband worked it out.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RboQecDvZJM/Uj-Ci-cvfQI/AAAAAAAATlQ/fgGrP8xy4P0/w800-h600-no/hc+shelves+makin.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I have a few things to say about this photo.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-D84kMRQpln8/UkUYjU6HgYI/AAAAAAAATn4/MmceiKX-hBU/w800-h533-no/IMG_7921.jpg" /><br />
1. I moved the blue couch to another room because it was clashing with everything. I did a little couch switcheroo.<br />
<br />
2. The rug. Oh the rug. The ends of the rug would NOT STOP CURLING UP. And the black arrowheads were peeling off. So I returned it to Urban Outfitters today for store credit. In the market for a new rug...<br />
<br />
3. Um. Twain and Ollie thought their kitties added a nice touch to my shelves. What do you think?<br />
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4. We hung the shelves but I'm still looking for things to put on them. I have trouble decorating large shelves. They overwhelm me. But I do love these honeycomb shelves and will look for some cheap nick-nacks at a thrift store. When everything is situated, I will show you a proper-like photo. Right now this room still in limbo.<br />
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Finally, I try not to go on and on about Ollie's schooling, so as to not bore you to tears. But I was SO stoked to take a <i>whole week</i> to perfect the little "e", since it's in Ollie's name...and was so hard for him to write.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jOHJ1Eo8A7k/Uj-Cc9iSl8I/AAAAAAAATj8/2Xyfdjav9P4/w800-h533-no/IMG_7903.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-I8kpgihv8b4/Uj-ChyPzSZI/AAAAAAAATk8/PWTkyso-bz4/w800-h425-no/globe.jpg" /><br />
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We practiced with shaving cream and sand. I love sand. Shaving cream...notsomuch.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vlfLHizP2DM/Uj-CbKzN_6I/AAAAAAAATjk/cEpBt_wAxaU/w800-h533-no/IMG_7877.jpg" /><br />
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Ollie made this cute little robot the other day. I especially love that it can carry tabby(ies) and their gameboys.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-06uQ4XkdgZ4/UkUUyj9Jc1I/AAAAAAAATm0/bpDJ9c-VBzE/w800-h600-no/ollie+robot.jpg" /><br />
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Ollie is thriving and each day feels very fulfilled. I fall into bed exhausted from it all, yet have trouble sleeping.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-5_k35leTSao/Uj-CaevW4yI/AAAAAAAATjc/XkeTooqgnQE/w800-h533-no/IMG_7724+copy.jpg" /></div>
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I got adjusted by Dr. W and she said I'm clenching my teeth like a maniac, which was causing my sinus troubles. So <i>I think</i> I am still feeling underlying stress/anxiety, which stinks. I hate that feeling. I know God doesn't want me to live this way, so I am praying that I can learn to fully cast all my cares upon Him. And a personality change would be nice too. I wish I was more laid back. </div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-87009751432002722412013-09-23T09:00:00.000-07:002013-09-23T09:00:10.479-07:00a mint wall<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Dear Sweet Blog.<br />
<br />
Um hi.<br />
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I've missed you. I didn't mean to take such a long break, honest, but sometimes...life...happens.<br />
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I told some people I would do some stuff for them, and I felt like I had to fulfill all of my responsibilities before coming back here. <i>Priorities and such. </i>It doesn't mean I don't love you. I just felt guilty playing here when I had all these deadlines looming over me. <i>It's hard being a grown-up.</i><br />
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And to be quite honest, this mama has been literally drowning in work and barely came up for air the last few weeks. Has that ever happened to you? Where your "to-do" list, seems to grow in your sleep? And you just can't get on top of it all, no matter how hard you try?<br />
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Work work work, 24/7! And the boys have been realllllllllly demanding. And I got a head/sinus cold and I'm beat and overwhelmed and stressed...but God has been my helper. Amen, don't know where I would be without Him.<br />
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Despite all this, I{<i>meaning John</i>} did manage to paint a wall and that is something to celebrate, eh?<br />
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I mean, it only took me a week of deliberating before I FINALLY settled on a shade of mint. I used Behr Winter Fresh, 25% darker.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-E9wTH5-mWTQ/Uj-CdoafnNI/AAAAAAAATkI/X2p_IjrhHPc/w800-h533-no/IMG_7935.jpg" /><br />
I was SO excited when bday present arrived on the FedEx truck....an eames-style white rocker--it's a knock-off, of course. But it's so much fun and my favorite chair in the house. The boys and kitties love it too. Hi Peach!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-sugWQdhKldY/Uj-CfWu0p3I/AAAAAAAATkg/NHrY_TeVta8/w800-h533-no/IMG_7960.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lSt-D8uIAgE/Uj-CewHJ30I/AAAAAAAATkU/mbTuK36g9uc/w800-h533-no/IMG_7948.jpg" /><br />
Above:<br />
flower print and wooden cubby from urban outfitters<br />
arrow sign(and chevron box) from target<br />
lil deer head from land of nod<br />
goose-neck lamp and tiny globe from etsy or ebay.<br />
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My little sis was doing face-time with me, trying to help me decorate this wall. When all of a sudden I let out a loud SHRIEK. John {accidentally}dropped that arrow pic on my little deer...and one of its antlers broke right off. It was a sad little moment.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j6C4nsH8hzM/Uj-Cf-JEv3I/AAAAAAAATkk/MmRcIQ3U3dc/w800-h533-no/IMG_7975.jpg" /><br />
After some minor surgery with super glue, it's as good as new{Don't look too close, wink}. <br />
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IoWXRcjiHG8/Uj-CcWUGQ2I/AAAAAAAATj0/3eSff4YL51k/w800-h533-no/IMG_7933.jpg" /><br />
This above wall used to be my piano wall--we ended up moving the piano under the front window. It's always fun switching things up and looking at things in a fresh new way. The boys get all excited too. Weeee!</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-91211612487713094332013-08-30T06:00:00.000-07:002013-08-30T06:00:04.633-07:00kids' desk area<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My dear friend <a href="http://www.justinandbarbie.blogspot.com/">Barbie</a> texted me a picture of an old double desk...and she offered to give it to Twain and Ollie!</div>
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I just had a sneaking suspicion that it would look perfect under this {once}empty window.<br />
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P57pIKF2ht0/UiAhURKAPMI/AAAAAAAATgY/KInCFmb9ldw/w546-h661-no/kids+desk+area.jpg" /></div>
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Picture above from instagram--I'm davirebecca, if you care to be insta friends:)</div>
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John picked up the desk from Barbie's house and the next day I was <i>very</i> motivated to find lil chairs. I dragged Ollie and Twain to 3 different antique stores til I found any kid chairs. </div>
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As soon as loaded them into my car, I noticed rust. Ug. Hate that. </div>
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So the next few days were spend scrubbing off any surface rust. It was a most arduous task and finally John took over. Thankgoodness. Little boys were going absolutely mad with anticipation waiting for their little chairs. </div>
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John wanted to spray paint the metal parts of the chair. And I came thisclose to complying. But I liked the natural worn patina, so he ended up just spraying them with a clear satin finish. </div>
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He also put on new metal feet. Aren't they pretty and shiny?</div>
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Then the fun part! Accessorizing! A while ago, <a href="http://www.scottandlorie.blogspot.com/">Loriloo</a> got the <u>Oliver Twist</u> and <u>Mark Twain</u> books as gifts for my Oilver and Twain. These books have been patiently sitting on the boys' bookshelf, just waiting for their grand debut. </div>
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And I was SUPER stoked to finally have a home for these metal bookends. </div>
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(<i>Side story. I bought these metal book ends YEARS ago...then sold them back to the antique dealer for PENNIES I TELL YOU...only to buy them back from him AGAIN a year or 2 later, sheesh.</i>)</div>
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And not sure if this banner will remain, but it makes the place chipper for now!</div>
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And darlings <a href="http://www.megmills.blogspot.com/">Megan</a> and <a href="http://www.justinandbarbie.blogspot.com/">Barbie</a> got me these awesome metal file cabinets to store Ollie's curriculum. I'm now obsessed with curriculum--because when you have lousy material it makes you want to gouge your eyes out. </div>
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I originally set out to homeschool <i>just</i> Ollie.</div>
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>Partly because our kindergarten shifted to all-day, rather than half-day.</div>
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<i> I was fairly certain that both Ollie and his teacher would both go crazy from each other by the end of the day. </i></div>
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>Partly because I suspected Ollie would need a lil extra help. Which he does. Especially with handwriting.</div>
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I did not anticipate teaching Twain(age 4). But he insists upon it. </div>
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It's been fun teaching them, so I have been pleasantly surprised.</div>
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Ollie and Twain <i>cannot believe</i> their good fortune that mommy now sits and reads to them and does activities with them all morning rather than cleaning the house. </div>
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My house. My poooooor house. It's a mess. Stress! I crave order!</div>
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It's been a tough adjustment for me because I'm used to cleaning, doing chores and running errands all morning. I'm still trying to figure it all out.<br />
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God is patiently teaching me what I NEED to do vs. what I need to let go of...<br />
And it's been tough for me to let go. I didn't realize I had such a deathgrip on my schedule and "to-do" list. Since I have less time for my "stuff", I'm S-L-O-W-L-Y learning to be more disciplined and to prioritize. I still mess up and waste time and have a long way to go. </div>
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I rewarded myself with sushi for lunch on surviving the first week. <i>I scarfed the other 6 sushi rolls before snapping this picture. </i>I think it should be a weekly ritual. </div>
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bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-8422512296982539752013-08-27T23:32:00.001-07:002013-08-27T23:32:22.874-07:00mug swap 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hiiii.<br />
I'm alive...but barely. I literally feel like I have been drowning lately...just too much to do, too little time. Just can't do it all.<br />
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But I did manage to participate in my very first {<a href="http://www.acuppakim.com/">acuppakim</a>}mugswap!<br />
Actually this is my very first SWAP of any kind.<br />
I'm always scared to do swaps becuase I'm so picky. I'm afraid I will not like what I get and I'm afraid I will buy the wrong thing for someone else. As my sister Jessica said, "It's a very serious business giving someone a household item". Lol.<br />
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My girl was actually pretty easy. She said she LOVED the starbucks city/state mugs.<br />
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So I went to Starbucks, expecting to have my pick of any city/state I wanted. Well. NO. That is not how it works. You can only buy your own city/state. Rude.<br />
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But it's kind of a thing. Apparently people get all excited trading these Starbucks mugs and collecting them when they visit another state.<br />
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I thought our Cali mug looked a smidge unfortunate, but <a href="http://www.scottyboyandkatygirl.blogspot.com/">Katy</a> assured me that it would be special since it's from the state I live in.</div>
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1Zgw5bgJIw8/Uh2OlsQCpDI/AAAAAAAATdU/iYZaCWHe4Pw/w800-h533-no/IMG_5534+copy.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-U-K3YVtvdCc/Uh2OCRDVcOI/AAAAAAAATcI/L3Fw1qP_AbE/w800-h533-no/IMG_5553.jpg" /><br />
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Now these mug swaps are sorta a big deal and people like to wrap them all pretty. So I decided to make my own wrapping paper. <a href="http://www.scottandlorie.blogspot.com/">Loriloo</a> gave me the idea of gold dots .<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-C9X4jBuj1KM/Uh2OCPsW5eI/AAAAAAAATcA/MyywQ1c3WYQ/w800-h533-no/IMG_5575.jpg" /><br />
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Mmmmmm. Metallic gold paint. Looks so yummy I could lick it.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pZ1Ml0OKo64/Uh2OCxtAMqI/AAAAAAAATcQ/bwhsZC-cGEM/w800-h533-no/IMG_5579.jpg" /><br />
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These sponge doohickies are called 'spouncers'. Bought them at Michaels.<br />
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Just about done!<br />
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Thought it needed a pom pom so I made one using <a href="http://nabell1.tripod.com/nppp/howtomake.html">this tutorial</a>.<br />
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I am officially obsessed with yarn as ribbon and think I will wrap my Christmas with it. Cheap. Comes in any color. Big rolls. Win-win-win.<br />
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Also added some of my favorite candy from my hometown. People go crazy on these swaps and add ALLLL kinds of extra goodies.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-GlGvFTZB8nQ/Uh2OF7pDSCI/AAAAAAAATdA/AVUr6mI-4Ww/w800-h533-no/IMG_6467.jpg" /><br />
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Ready to be shipped of from Cali to Texas, yeehaw! My swap mate <a href="http://www.karamatsews.com/">Tammy</a> is super friendly and it was a joy getting to know her better!<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LK-E2pQMGXE/Uh2OFRoJBLI/AAAAAAAATc4/VO0EAHUK29g/w800-h533-no/IMG_5668.jpg" /><br />
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The same day Tammy got her mug, I got my mug from my girl, Sara, at <a href="http://hellomynameissara.com/">Hellomynameissara.com</a><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S-v2HGkCGqI/Uh2OGaYYDuI/AAAAAAAATdE/6p8rvc3Af8o/w800-h425-no/mugswap.jpg" /><br />
I was stoked with my mug!<br />
Except I got super confused and when I tried to thank Sara and tag her on instagram, I accidently tagged the wrong person...a girl in China called Sara.com.<br />
Only I could be so awk as to tag the wrong person....from China no less. Gah!<br />
But with the help of {ACuppa}Kim, I mangaged to hook up with my cute and super talented swap mate!<br />
I had a lot of fun doing this swap! You should join next time if you are up for a little adventure.</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-88127201941810904042013-08-15T22:51:00.004-07:002013-08-15T23:38:17.863-07:00Calvin|8|Field<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My Calvin Jack is now 8! </div>
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He used to be my easy-going, laid back child.</div>
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He kinda morphed. </div>
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He has {many}opinions. And is stubborn. </div>
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Probably because he has 3 brothers. And has to keep up.</div>
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He's still sweet as pie and spontaneously hugs me every day.</div>
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But somewhere along the way he is not so easy-going and laid back anymore. Nope. Gone are those days. And it's throwing this mama for a loop.</div>
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But we adore him. </div>
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xidrQ1bjCB4/Ug2wWlcdGNI/AAAAAAAATOw/J2avLjOSzPk/w800-h533-no/IMG_5283.jpg" /><br />
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Happy Birthday Calvin Jack, who don't take smack. </div>
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bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-11602382090857429422013-08-12T22:02:00.004-07:002013-08-12T22:05:45.777-07:00on a whim<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It was saturday morning and I was sleeping in til 9. And it was just heavenly. Don't judge. Let me have my one little moment of happiness, because soon, very SOON, school will start and my life will be OVER. I'm just NOT a morning person, ha.<br />
<br />
John said, "Hey let's get Calvin a bike in Ventura from Craigslist for his bday".<br />
<br />
"Are you crazy?", I asked.<br />
<br />
"No...we could go to the beach after that!"<br />
<br />
Sadly, I'm not very good at planning trips. Like ever. What is wrong with me? John plans all of our vacations. If it weren't for him, we wouldn't go anywhere.<br />
<br />
So I packed my lil bags and away we went. Weee!</div>
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0ffJOkUdMOs/UgllyFgJDWI/AAAAAAAATKo/JdpiSFjw45U/w800-h533-no/IMG_4294.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Even got to take my new sandals(from Shi, by Journeys) for a spin.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Y7_vd1QWQdg/Ugll2s_xGnI/AAAAAAAATLw/BMTfHlTXzdk/w800-h425-no/feathers+shoes.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Twain decided he had to whiz as soon as we got to the beach. "Go in the water!", <strike>daddy</strike> someone said.<br />
<br />
"Ew, that's sick!", I declared. Besides. Twain refused to use the ocean as his toilet. Good boy.<br />
<br />
So we had to take a little hike to the potty.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Kdno6mlj8uU/UgllwZ1BMDI/AAAAAAAATKU/mXRYgrffSto/w800-h533-no/IMG_4363.jpg" /><br />
Twain was barefoot and the bathrooms were DISEASED I TELL YOU. Pee all over the seat and floor. I wanted to gag. And Twain was too short to reach the potty. Plus I didn't want his feet to touch the ground.<br />
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Ip201wpvXS0/Ugll3OV6mSI/AAAAAAAATL0/HmzPltag5_I/w800-h425-no/tweeds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Ip201wpvXS0/Ugll3OV6mSI/AAAAAAAATL0/HmzPltag5_I/w800-h425-no/tweeds.jpg" /></a><br />
So I scooped him up and held him sideways and he started whizzing everywhere, oi.<br />
<br />
So much for having a boy. I thought that was supposed to be a benefit---they could go standing up. Not this day.<br />
<br />
Finally we aimed some into the toilet. And left the place worse than it started. Whoops.<br />
<br />
Daddy and the boys found a diseased decapitated bird. Lovely.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-c-ej0h4sAC8/UgllxeiDpCI/AAAAAAAATKc/gWFRhNc_Fdc/w800-h533-no/IMG_4337.jpg" /><br />
<br />
When we first got to the beach, I immediately spotted a super cool log...but there were people PARKED on it.<br />
<br />
The second they left, I hawked it. It was super grand, like having a sofa. The people across the way kept staring. I'm not sure why. Did they want the log too? Or were we a spectacle? It's hard to say...<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fd7-BIw5Bls/UgllyVC52QI/AAAAAAAATKw/uMfRnFITLC0/w800-h533-no/IMG_4406.jpg" /><br />
It was windy and freezing and I was SOOOO glad I brought my wool hoodie. <br />
<br />
The boys didn't seem to mind the cold for the first hour.<br />
<br />
Hanging with the birthday boy! Cavin turned 8! (<i>Don't worry, I have since trimmed the wayward bangs</i>).<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MCjBnfzf62E/Uglly6cFwyI/AAAAAAAATK0/nuQaHN39RIY/w800-h533-no/IMG_4440.jpg" /><br />
We even stopped for Foster's donuts and celebrated. Donuts are like my favorite dessert ever, btw...mmmm...sugar donuts, white or pink sprinkle donuts or a chocolate bar. And I like maple bars too but they are kinda sweet. What is your fav donut?<br />
<br />
Grooming my boys like a chimp. Always.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-617VpiEMmaE/UgllzTIaflI/AAAAAAAATK8/8LMu-kUU8hc/w800-h533-no/IMG_4445.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MoFY0p_GxXE/Ugll0bt0-1I/AAAAAAAATLI/-rEH47dasIk/w800-h533-no/IMG_4473.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fPHpvVDIpKQ/Ugll0fW8OXI/AAAAAAAATLQ/npFPPUHQH0Y/w800-h533-no/IMG_4502.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Trying to keep warm. Not a bad idea, boys.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8nk0YIwIj8Y/Ugll02pgp0I/AAAAAAAATLU/1I_ffU_ajpU/w800-h533-no/IMG_4523.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Finally the boys were miserably cold and begging to go home. Ollie hid under a towel and kept praying "Jesus please stop this wind!". He probably remembered the story in the bible where Jesus stopped the wind on the sea...<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-coJuUHuPfI8/Ugll1XakixI/AAAAAAAATLg/Wq7ghE8RZig/w800-h533-no/IMG_4544.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Finally when I could handle the whining and yelping no longer, we threw the boys in the van and drove home.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-C89iBjvgl9c/Ugll19mNJSI/AAAAAAAATLk/EnGJ2-0VxJI/w800-h533-no/IMG_4552.jpg" /></div>
It's SO fun to get away, but even more fun coming home. What can I say? I must be part hobbit.</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-39296692956080348012013-08-08T21:52:00.004-07:002013-08-08T21:52:36.549-07:00never thirsty thursday<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Most of ya'll know how much I love and support<a href="http://www.love-water.org/"> Love-Water.org</a>. I wrote about them <a href="http://littlebandofbrothers.blogspot.com/2013/03/my-dream-tee-and-love-water.html">here</a> and <a href="http://littlebandofbrothers.blogspot.com/2013/06/on-why-im-willing-to-act-awkward-and.html">here</a>. I was even willing to act totally awkward for the sake of the cause.<br />
<br />
If you don't know about Love-Water, let me quickly catch you up to speed.<br />
<br />
Millions of people(including children) in developing countries are getting sick/dying from dirty drinking water.<br />
<i>And it's completely preventable. </i><br />
Love-Water is helping provide clean water by the use of bio-sand filters and drilling wells.<br />
<b>Only $1 per day gives person clean drinking water for a year! Incredible!</b><br />
Love-Water is seeking to expand their reach to these people but needs YOUR help to get the word out to all your friends!<br />
<br />
Head over to @lovewater on instagram to help launch their giveaway NEVER THIRSTY AGAIN!<br />
Just follow instructions on picture below. Plus you can win some cool stuff!</div>
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2euuslFVGNo/UgPdQlHroYI/AAAAAAAATHk/JK4EbqVFoeA/s742-no/image.jpeg" /><br />
Thanks a bunch! May the Lord bless your efforts to look after the "least of these".<br />
<br />
<i>Matthew 10:42 And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.</i></div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-5098881720240384552013-08-07T23:32:00.004-07:002013-08-08T01:44:45.773-07:00hello august<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We reinstalled a new hard drive and my computer is now fixed! Hooray!<br />
<br />
Then I realized that my entire list of Christmas addresses was GONE. And I about cried. So if you want a Christmas card{in December}, send me your address, mkay?<br />
<br />
>>>>><<<<<</div>
1. The end of July was horrid and I'm happy to welcome August. Not too sure what to share here at present. Let's just say that I was caught off guard by a situation and felt God telling me to FLEE. He said RUN 100 different ways...Anyhow, for whatever reason, I was having a VERY hard time obeying.<br />
Partly because I was trying to be a people pleaser, and wanted to avoid any awkward encounters.<br />
Partly because I was believing lies by the enemy that said "Oh it's not a big deal. You are fine and strong enough to handle this."<br />
Partly because I'm hard-headed, stubborn and sinful.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-cOnbrGcbQaU/UgMqsO2MXjI/AAAAAAAATGI/AxzEpXOP2E4/w800-h533-no/IMG_4169.jpg" /><br />
I just begged God to help and He dragged me out of the situation and saved me. Because I was too weak to do it myself. And for this I'm so thankful. He enabled me to make the right choice, even though I was initially VERY SLOW at obeying. I can give Him all glory.<br />
<br />
Through it all, I have become a different person.<br />
Less judgemental. More merciful.<br />
Yet more sure of what is right and true than ever. Because when I don't follow God's path...it just makes my bones ache and misery ensues.<br />
<br />
2. This weekend I went out of town to visit my little sister Lindsay, and to take pictures of her twinsies, James and Savannah.<br />
<br />
We got to our location and started to set things up. James ended up taking a tumble and his face got all scratched up/bloody and his clothes were all dirty.<br />
<br />
I snapped a few pictures of Savannah, hoping that James would rebound. But really, we were all too upset to continue, because James wasn't acting himself. It was just awful. So we headed to the urgent care instead, just to make sure he was ok. Thankfully, he was. So we will try to take twinsie shots again soon. Here are a few of Savannah. <br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0JMY2K_qkpg/UgMriICnMNI/AAAAAAAATHE/mR-ZtlPfQMg/w800-h533-no/IMG_4177.jpg" /><br />
<br />
This auntie is smitten by this baby girl.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kAQUTp0tTw4/UgMriPHU9TI/AAAAAAAATHI/EV7NQac-bN4/w800-h533-no/IMG_4185.jpg" /><br />
<br />
She did not want to be by herself and reached out for auntie's hand. I, of course, melted. Can not resist her.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9Uzmi14G1GY/UgMqt4sB1II/AAAAAAAATGg/urpOO1UMGbw/w800-h533-no/IMG_4193.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Looking worried without her buddy, James.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6zrVF5fp4Eg/UgMquXZu_0I/AAAAAAAATGk/peMIdSXT0OY/w800-h533-no/IMG_4212.jpg" /><br />
<br />
3. I spent the night at Lindsay's house and we went shopping the next day, to buy a particular sign.<br />
Here's the story. My older sister Jessica bought this map sign.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3-eHhhtM-V8/UgMot2UYUWI/AAAAAAAATEk/EkPbqly3AmU/w800-h533-no/IMG_4258.jpg" /><br />
My younger sister Lindsay saw Jessica's sign, and bought one for herself the next day.<br />
I saw Linsday's sign at her house this weekend and then bought one for myself the next day.(Lindsay chipped in for my early bday present).<br />
<br />
Only sisters can get away with such madness.<br />
<br />
Not 100% where it's going yet. Maybe over my front room piano...Maybe not. We shall see.<br />
<br />
4. I went back-to-school shopping.<br />
For myself, of course.<br />
Mama can't show up to the bus stop in rags, now, can she?<br />
Boys don't even care about clothes. So.<br />
<br />
I'm pretty sure every shirt I bought has some sort of metal stud. Gold dots. Drool.<br />
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-2XoVgj1Gp7Y/UgMouS9V2SI/AAAAAAAATEg/fuLfmg16UfI/w800-h533-no/IMG_4264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-2XoVgj1Gp7Y/UgMouS9V2SI/AAAAAAAATEg/fuLfmg16UfI/w800-h533-no/IMG_4264.jpg" /></a><br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jSecSw5305Q/UgMouUlmlkI/AAAAAAAATEo/kxtTYaAkLcc/w800-h533-no/IMG_4259.jpg" /><br />
I bought my <i>first ever</i> colored skinny jeans, so that is pretty exciting. I had been looking for coral/peach colored skinnies for AGES(<i>at least a few days</i>). I tried these coral/peachy jeans on at Forever 21 and fell in love. ( I've decided that it's called Forever 21 because it literally takes FOREVER to find what you want in that mongo huge store).<br />
<br />
Then I took a picture of myself at home with weird lighting, and the pants looked flesh-colored. Horror! In short, I looked nekked.<br />
<br />
I asked John and he said they looked fine....not nekked at all. It must have been the funky lighting. So they get to stay. Weeee! (<i>You would not believe how hard it is to find a pair of coral/peach/orange colored skinnies when you are as short as I am</i>).<br />
<br />
I know it's ridiculous to buy sandals in August. But we still have warm weather here til November. And they were on sale. Could you resist? I could not.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-iian92hzCgI/UgMouqUP_FI/AAAAAAAATE8/9Fwej3mGoyA/w800-h533-no/IMG_4273.jpg" /><br />
<br />
5. I have been feverishly doing my exercises every day. Slowly I feel myself improving.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-azBxGNhExsY/UgMovflLR7I/AAAAAAAATE4/HBLO-cJB4cI/w800-h533-no/IMG_4281.jpg" /><br />
I cannot BELIEVE how much time/energy it takes to stay in shape. In the past, I gave up because my knees would get stingy.<br />
Now that I stablilize my knees with tape, they feel SO MUCH better.<br />
That tape is like $24. Yikes. So sometimes I keep it on, while running errands, so as to save money.<br />
You would not believe the questions I get.<br />
"Are your knees injured?"<br />
"Did you just have surgery?"<br />
And the stares. I'm like "Hello people. Look up HERE at my EYES! Not my knees". I mean, I finally know what it's like for all those busty girls;)<br />
<br />
6. I've decided to homeschool Ollie this year(Finn and Calvin will continue at our elementary school).<br />
Why am I homeschooling Ollie?<br />
Because I feel like it's best for him. Not necessarily best for me, lol, but I just have that gut feeling telling me to give it a try.<br />
Our elementary school just switched to all-day kindergarten and I just don't think Ollie and his teacher will survive each other. That's just a LONG day.<br />
So I signed up with a great charter school to homeschool and they literally sent me home with boxes of curriculum.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-D_CdSTksxqA/UgMovh3P03I/AAAAAAAATFA/HPVP0bl4MPM/w800-h533-no/IMG_4288.jpg" /></div>
I need something to store all of Ollie's school stuff.<br />
I remember seeing some cool mustard-colored vintage metal file cabinets at our antique store!!! Must buy!<br />
<br />
It's sad that I'm more excited about Ollie's school decor than I am in the curriculum itself--I feel like the black sheep of all home-schooling moms. But once we start, I'm sure I will get more interested in curriculum...</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-65564044631728753842013-07-29T23:49:00.000-07:002013-07-29T23:49:02.279-07:00an impulsive decision<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This morning I woke up and looked in the mirror.<br />
<br />
My eyebrows were looking very dark. And sinister. I felt grumpy.<br />
<br />
When I get highlights put in my hair, I usually have my girl lighten my eyebrows a smidge...just so that my hair color blends a little better with my eyebrows. <br />
<br />
You might think I'm nuts. But my natural eyebrows are pretty dark. I read online today that dark eyebrows can make your face look too harsh, whereas lighter eyebrows can soften your face a bit. I guess it just depends on the person. Some people look fantastically dramatic with darker eyebrows. I however, do not. And my next hair appointment is over a month away.<br />
<br />
On a whim, I googled "how to lighten your eyebrows at home"... just too see if I could fix them myself.<br />
And lo and behold, I stumbled across a tutorial in this nifty <a href="http://www.kandeej.com/2013/06/how-and-why-to-lighten-your-eyebrows.html">blog post</a>.<br />
<br />
The girl in the tutorial used Sally's cream hair bleach to lighten her eyebrows. They looked pretty good on her. And I just so happend to have a brand new box in my bathroom cabinets.<br />
<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Q94yjb7EtSw/UfdW-AEwAzI/AAAAAAAATCc/HEzhYpNxEfk/w764-h509-no/IMG_4147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Q94yjb7EtSw/UfdW-AEwAzI/AAAAAAAATCc/HEzhYpNxEfk/w764-h509-no/IMG_4147.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a><br />
<i>Side note: A year or 2 ago, I used to cream bleach the hair on my arms. But it took like 15 minutes and I was too antsy to sit there that long. </i><i>So one day I just shaved the hair off my arms and I've never looked back. Super easy. I just do it like once or twice a week in the shower when I shave my legs. It only adds like one or 2 minutes to my routine.</i><br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_Omz2XkZ7cM/UfdShqoNzQI/AAAAAAAATBg/r2erVNhOke8/w764-h509-no/IMG_4131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_Omz2XkZ7cM/UfdShqoNzQI/AAAAAAAATBg/r2erVNhOke8/w764-h509-no/IMG_4131.jpg" /></a>Anyhow, back to my story. Without even thinking, I impulsively decided to try bleaching my eyebrows myself with the Sally's cream bleach.<br />
<br />
It was so sudden a decision, I did not even bother to take a before picture. Sorry! I just had to go fast before I chickened out.<br />
<br />
But here is an after shot!</div>
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--Mf1KdNq0fQ/UfdSbLw_Q1I/AAAAAAAATBY/yaAjnCZxKF8/w764-h509-no/IMG_4091.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I think they match up well enough. I hope they don't turn orange tomorrrow. Though it would serve me right for being so vain and impulsive;)<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sI8-o315vSY/UfdSXVDlZ7I/AAAAAAAATBI/JR5vCrCgjhM/w764-h509-no/IMG_4082.jpg" /><br />
<br />
So here is what to do, if you are brave enough to try.<br />
<br />
1. Grab the creme hair bleach activator and pour a pile the size of a dime{roughly}<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-nfO0CXL4KfE/UfdV8QQ8LTI/AAAAAAAATB4/o21hYzr9fh0/w764-h509-no/IMG_4152.jpg" /><br />
<br />
2. Then take the bleach and just make a little pile(half the size of the dime pile, roughly).<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-JjUskkgMFRE/UfdWBbdsg1I/AAAAAAAATCA/MPrYx9HxgwM/w764-h509-no/IMG_4155.jpg" /><br />
Oh hi Blue! <i>Kitty is interested. Us girls stick together in this house.</i><br />
<br />
3. Mix these 2 piles together and slap them on your eyebrows. Make sure you smoosh it all in and get all your eyebrows.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-RegVDGhaIQg/UfdWDJg-bWI/AAAAAAAATCI/4-Ps5T9T83c/w764-h509-no/IMG_4157.jpg" /><br />
<br />
4. Leave it on for 2 mintues and check your progress. I left mine on 3 minutes. And washed it off. And done! Yay! Super quick 'n easy and I never had to leave the house.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-503iXk12D9E/UfdSZOnh4FI/AAAAAAAATBQ/KLJ_gng8gw4/w764-h509-no/IMG_4090.jpg" /></div>
So. What was your most impulsive DIY beauty trick. How did it work out?<br />
<br />
p.s. my computer is still crashed and so you get posts like these, aye aye aye.<br />
<br /></div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-53015470290241030532013-07-23T23:35:00.003-07:002013-07-23T23:40:57.546-07:00Lately<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My computer is still down and so I did the best I could with this post. Getting pics to load properly on this old laptop is a bear.<br />
<br />
1. In case you didn't already know, I get to go to physical therapy twice a week for some minor knee and back/core issues.<br />
<br />
Basically, like 2 weeks ago, I had my first back spasm after lifting something incorrectly and it FREAKED ME OUT. Talk about shock to system, yowza. Dr W. was like "get in shape girl" and hand me paperwork for PT.<br />
<br />
Lucky me, I get the best PT in town. He is truly amazing. And he is stuck with me.<br />
<br />
My new accessory is this resistance band, which Calvin and John want as a sling shot.<br />
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7LhSZnwobng/Ue9pBlbZa2I/AAAAAAAATAs/ORh08bquf68/w800-h400-no/collage+verthorz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7LhSZnwobng/Ue9pBlbZa2I/AAAAAAAATAs/ORh08bquf68/w800-h400-no/collage+verthorz.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
While on the table doing one particular {miserable} exercise I accidentally blurted "I hate you!" to my poor PT. Omyword. Whoopsie. After I apologized profusely, he laughed and was like "I've heard much worse". He's such a good sport.<br />
<br />
We had a theological discussion on the subject of predestination, as he was stretching my leg right off. I'm pretty sure he won.<br />
<br />
I then hopped off the table and announced "I have to whiz!" You should have seen the startled look on his face, followed by a laugh. Seriously, what is wrong with me? Could I be more awk?<br />
<br /></div>
Today when he asked me what kind of talents/skills I had, I listed a few things....and added on "shopping" at the end.<br />
<br />
He was like "Davi. Shopping is NOT a skill."<br />
<br />
I said, "Yes, it IS."<br />
<br />
I mean, you'd agree with me...shopping IS a skill, right?<br />
<br />
All of a sudden I feel extra sorry for him that I am his patient.<br />
<br />
Though it could be worse. <i>At least</i> I am wearing deodorant for the first time in like 10 years(tmi), just for PT. John made me. And then I go home and wash it off. Because I am a nut--John just shakes his head. In my defense I rarely sweat. But this summer has been a doozy. So. I make allowances. Consider yourself special if I will put deodorant on for you;)<br />
<br />
2. I have been doing a lot with Pastor Cesar and Maria this summer with the kids from the reading program. It's my home away from home. A big chunk of my heart is there. Being there just grounds me. Big time. Which I need desperately. I can be so fickle and worldly at times.<br />
<br />
My favorite new thing is face-painting for the kids. It's SO MUCH FUN to make a little girl feel beautiful with all that glitter and paint. <br />
<br />
We have VBS this week for these kids and so it's gonna be a big week for me.<br />
<br />
3. I bought a new rug, inspired by <a href="http://scottandlorie.blogspot.com/">Loriloo</a>. Thanks for letting me copycat Loo!<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-r4p075ZCWNk/Ue9eyHN1WoI/AAAAAAAAS_Y/HuunxzmN8J0/w817-h510-no/IMG_3331.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0YMg-T2h3VA/Ue9fErICMWI/AAAAAAAATAA/PdQY9Ece3DA/w765-h510-no/IMG_4049.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I decided to redo the wall above the couch. I thought it needed something fresh and new. Bought this arrow/ombre/metal thing at target.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fGblP40Hjik/Ue9e546QLQI/AAAAAAAAS_w/udnsf65m0JM/w765-h510-no/IMG_4037.jpg" /><br />
<br />
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And I have a wee confession. For over a year, I've disliked the color aqua. Just OD'd on it. And I'm now happy to report that I've gotten over my aversion. Aqua and I are good friends again. I think the wall would look less serious with a few pops of aqua.</div>
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<br /></div>
I ordered these two items at Urban. (print on the left, and cubbies on right)<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-uKvq72EVZXY/Ue9j8U-DNoI/AAAAAAAATAY/jWyHPEaBXfI/w756-h510-no/flowercubby.jpg" /><br />
My sister Jessica talked me into the wooden cubbies. I'm not 100% that these cubbies are my style. But I do like them. And Jessica suggested I put some of my cacti in them. Which I DO think will be cute. We shall see.<br />
<br />
Oh and I think the globe adds a nice pop of aqua. I will be adding one of those too. </div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-40393383777676840872013-07-21T16:21:00.000-07:002013-07-21T16:21:03.339-07:00meep!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi guys.<br />
My computer hard drive bit the dust the other day. John ordered new parts, which will be here soon. If that doesn't work, we might need to get another computer. I am currently typing on a laptop with no mouse and it's driving me nuts. But if I can get my act together and figure it out, I shall write a post soon.<br />
<br />
In the meanwhile, I am on instagram(davirebecca). Miss ya'll. Come by and say hi.<br />
<br />
Smooches. XO</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-15831350778691550622013-07-14T17:16:00.000-07:002013-07-15T16:22:38.191-07:00tale of a late blankie.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
While searching through my fabric stash, I realized I was kinda sick of staring at the same old prints.<br />
<br />
I needed some new fabrics to inspire me to sew a fun blanket for dear friend <a href="http://scottandlorie.blogspot.com/">Loriloo's</a> THIRD lil mister.<br />
<br />
The only problem was...I was in a time crunch.<br />
<br />
And the fabrics I needed were <i>only</i> online.<br />
<br />
For example, Loriloo loves black and white. And I needed this triangular fabric. Because it kinda matched her sweater, lol. And it was only made in England. And would not be here on time. Boo.<br />
<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-htuv8Rj6Gq0/UeMTFsdoKsI/AAAAAAAAS9Q/1oV6CQhYuM4/w800-h400-no/bandwtriangles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-htuv8Rj6Gq0/UeMTFsdoKsI/AAAAAAAAS9Q/1oV6CQhYuM4/w800-h400-no/bandwtriangles.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So I decided to make her a little booklet explaining my predicament. She was more than patient in waiting. </div>
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-oiaNOvd90J4/UeMZQzoOj3I/AAAAAAAAS-o/bnotw3xnsZY/w800-h594-no/card.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I normally make symmetrical 9-square blankets. But after watching Lorie sew together <a href="http://littlebandofbrothers.blogspot.com/2013/04/vintage-ties-in-blanket.html">Ellie's blanket</a>, I decided it was time to branch out and make a blankie with different sized squares and rectangles.<br />
<br />
Problem? My kludgey old cutting system. Was not gonna cut the mustard. So I saved my pennies and recently just upgraded to the new system seen on the right.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-xEr-KSKwgJk/UeMTGLxrsjI/AAAAAAAAS9c/1QgQwaiiBeA/w800-h400-no/cutting+system.jpg" /><br />
<i>Lorie bought me the clear ruler with the purple handle on it. (Thanks Looloo!)</i><br />
I was on a cutting high all night with that bad boy razor. SO.MUCH.EASIER to cut my funky sizes.<br />
<br />
However, it was more challenging DECIDING which pieces should go where. Oi. I stared for a long time. And finally just started cutting and sewing, otherwise I'd get nowhere.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m-PxOEQ53YU/UeMS1Lgnm_I/AAAAAAAAS7M/cKLyFYLApwM/w800-h533-no/IMG_3920.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Little triangle appliqués.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SmFqoGQL87s/UeMS1T42RTI/AAAAAAAAS7Y/t3hB57nAZtw/w800-h533-no/IMG_3931.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocPEIicCZb2LJ4i6SiXGvsxS3qm8EF3lXblJYhlC5NbUcZV9Q3vhuoWqcNej45fnk3lJ1b4HGeR9xKAK7i8S77P1qCvuY2gpRNu6QcVdDKLnR0082EAjquX-340rZ7iUBPZ5y2t2ObDO8/w800-h533-no/IMG_3954.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZoPhVWGf4LE/UeMS-vGTP4I/AAAAAAAAS8M/6mhnbGtGBBw/w800-h533-no/IMG_3977.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT54Lbmo5UzC6TuOf-P134tm2lrn-UzLTQbCke92WTPFS-Q2vnUQ9RFHFXk2pXbmE2nSNLSBx0Ian6STXIYL3irAbVH-GA6g2GeDopx4wU7JAmkJZYNTCraa3ohqamMxFKvfhFBl9XMTC8/w800-h533-no/IMG_3982.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JIWQl-derqI/UeMTIc2hu2I/AAAAAAAAS9k/nLRPfX9xGdE/w800-h594-no/teepee+embroider.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And all done. Congrats to Loriloo and baby Wesley. Love you both. Smooches.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-k9ssdwYrixE/UeMTBuyYyLI/AAAAAAAAS8g/71Drzo5Mqqw/w800-h533-no/IMG_3998.jpg" /></div>
</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-32314720520812262952013-07-08T17:51:00.004-07:002013-07-08T21:40:26.781-07:00little cacti party.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So one of my dolls(dolls=cute young friends that makes me look old) was having a birthday and so I had a few friends over to celebrate.<br />
<br />
My friends and I often go too far on parties...ya know...obnoxious pinterest overload. We are trying to turn a new leaf. At least for "normal" bdays:<br />
<br />
No banners.<br />
No party favors.<br />
Just some yummy snacks and desserts and whatever decorations are on hand.<br />
<br />
Remember my blue arrow tablecloth? Well, I had been dying to use it. So I piled some of my beloved cacti in the middle. </div>
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-s3pAsV0y3Qk/UdtGcuuIlUI/AAAAAAAAS4E/Es15jyYCEsY/s800/IMG_3087.jpg" /><br />
And bought a few sprigs of eucalyptus because I'm obsessed and they are cheap.<br />
<br />
Set up our costco table and folding chairs.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_9vgjTxapyU/UdtGdnq6jmI/AAAAAAAAS4M/jhikyqog9wg/s800/IMG_3103.jpg" /><br />
Ok, I'm realizing my folding chairs look super cheesy and I really should have used my kitchen chairs. Fooey, Davi!<br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tPZgOwovUPs/UdtGhOW2U8I/AAAAAAAAS48/Otg4QE2sjZc/s800/collage.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Dewars{peanut butter} chews are seriously my favorite candy on the planet. They taste like abazabba's that are light and fluffy but a million times better. You must taste one before you die.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iC7L_zq0ODM/UdtGcoUJFiI/AAAAAAAAS4A/PbcxBMzPhJM/s800/IMG_3102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iC7L_zq0ODM/UdtGcoUJFiI/AAAAAAAAS4A/PbcxBMzPhJM/s800/IMG_3102.jpg" /></a><br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Sfh_yEdRtN8/UdteN06a03I/AAAAAAAAS54/eEPZB4mitEs/s800/cacti.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Gift tag for bday girl: Cricut for cutting triangles and metal ring for attaching to bag. Metal rings are one of my new favorite things. Easy peasy.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--uwTd-l-k4o/UdtGicRkvzI/AAAAAAAAS5U/2tGY_mX-V4o/s800/tags.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And I ventured out and made some <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/06/perfect-iced-coffee/">Pioneer Woman's Iced Coffee</a>. My friend Jen bought some fancy-pants cupcakes that cost a small fortune.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-VDmAT7Rfnfk/UdtGhkL_1WI/AAAAAAAAS5I/MnxlpSx6LQA/s800/goodies%25202.jpg" /><br />
I bought that smallish liquid dispenser at walmart for like $12. Super convenient for small parties and fits right in fridge.<br />
<br />
A few days <i>after</i> the party, my friend Katie Russell texted me this photo of cactus cupcakes(from Pinterest). They would have looked cute with this party, no? Just dreaming:<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DosS3HZxYr4/UdtGiIJuxLI/AAAAAAAAS5M/hhzFHSyScB8/s800/i%2520wish.jpg" /><br />
Maybe I can make them for my birthday. After all, it is tradition in our family to make your own cake.<br />
<br />
Side note: These cupcakes are my VERY FIRST Pinterest pin, wahooo! <i>I basically needed a Pinterest account just so I could have 3 social media buttons under my profile picture, instead of 2, haha. Two buttons looked incomplete. So Pinterest, I'm basically just using you. But who knows? Maybe I'll find something cool to pin.</i><br />
<br />
The girls say hiiiii!<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Wy1KP00QvMw/UdtGe5ZqyvI/AAAAAAAAS4g/nouNCf3C23I/s800/IMG_3138.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /><br />
<br />
<u>Behind the scenes: Pioneer Woman's Perfect Iced Coffee </u><br />
<u><br />
</u> Started off so simple. Just dump your coffee grinds in water and leave overnight.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-X3b7XfQf1y8/UdtGcZ94BvI/AAAAAAAAS38/_m4emt5mMlE/s800/IMG_3026.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Bought some cute stuff to strain it: fine mesh strainer and cheese cloth. All ready to go!<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZHWSx20nY_8/UdtGffeXO9I/AAAAAAAAS4o/4ZIzOXqOYyI/s800/cheese%2520cloth.jpg" /><br />
I really tried...but my strainer fell into the container, splashing everthing and basically making a huge mess.<br />
<br />
"John! John! Wake up and HELP ME!"<br />
<br />
No lie, I had to wake my husband from a nap to help me. It was a two-man job.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L3oyDpHebsA/UdtGi4fu-yI/AAAAAAAAS5c/CwY8kJ8STCY/s800/vs.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Me and the Pioneer Woman...yah...we are like <i>the same</i>. (wink)<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-00bhRfhrrxs/UdtGhIJ0c6I/AAAAAAAAS44/IyC1xngQpps/s800/davi%2520PW.jpg" /></div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-18664711248644181562013-07-05T13:20:00.000-07:002013-07-07T17:36:50.323-07:00the land of the free!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh hi ya'll. I hope you had a very happy 4th. </div>
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-335vTFUYW_g/Udcg89JcT1I/AAAAAAAASzU/o17gEOYKcOM/w800-h533-no/IMG_3254.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm only posting like 4 or 5 pics today. </div>
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That is a record LOW for me. </div>
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Why so few?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. It was dang HAWT outside and the boys were all grumpy face. And I was gonna pass out. It was high noon in these pics.</div>
</div>
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QBc_e135BO4/Udcg807c0pI/AAAAAAAASzQ/lZABCJvp2xM/w800-h533-no/IMG_3240+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. I had a little mishap with my jean shorts. Let me explain. </div>
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-nvdlKrVmzD4/UdciszCvfnI/AAAAAAAAS0E/kvhmTqZYprE/w800-h594-no/johndavi.jpg" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was cutting off some jean shorts and John thought they looked too short. </div>
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I was like "nut uh!, they are fine dad" (Rude of me, I know)</div>
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He then put yellow post-it notes on my legs(no lie) and told me that my shorts needed to be "yay long".</div>
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Anyhow, I ended up cutting 2 pairs of shorts...one shorter, one longer.</div>
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<br /></div>
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And I ended up wearing the shorter ones for our 4th-o-July pics. Big mistake.</div>
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Turns out John WAS right. They were a little too short when I looked at the actual pics and hence I could not post most of them. Stupid me. </div>
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<br /></div>
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3. And the rest of the day I was lounging in my sister Jessica's pool on a raft like a beached whale, way too lazy to take pics. </div>
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I wasn't trying to get a tan, but I was trying to eradicate the glare of white off my legs. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jessica literally tethered the raft to the pool fence so I wouldn't crash into all the kids and get all wet. As we used to say as kids, "I did not get in this pool to get wet!"</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And one from insta(davirebecca)... <br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MGmSmcHhP_M/Udcg8ZCQSkI/AAAAAAAASzE/YWkTOAmjI5M/s400-no/IMG_2618.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Instagram seems a bit easier these days. I upgraded to a new iphone4 ,which could actually take pictures that were not super dark or blurry like my old iPhone3.<br />
<br />
Insta is like blogger on crack, lol. Just so fast and easy. And perfect for our lazy summers, Amen?!<br />
>>>>><<<<<</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank you Lord for the freedoms I have in this country, despite its numerous problems. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And from my Jesus Calling devo, on the importance of being thankful, and focusing on the good things in your life:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">When you focus on what you don't have or on situations that displease you, your mind also becomes darkened. You take for granted life, salvation, sunshine, flowers and countless other gifts from me. <i>You look for what is wrong and refuse to enjoy life until that is "fixed"</i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't know about you but that last part especially hit home for me. I'm a fixer. I dwell on my problems too much, instead of focusing on the positive. </div>
</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-70698421186663381692013-07-01T19:31:00.000-07:002013-07-01T19:45:47.295-07:00shabby apple winner<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">And the $50 gift card to <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/">Shabby Apple</a> goes to:</div><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-bSRHHOAOjCY/UdI-gmzVKHI/AAAAAAAASyg/-PYhcR2k59Q/w800-h300-no/winner2.jpg" /><br />
Congratulations! I will be emailing you to get your address.<br />
<br />
Thanks to everyone who participated in this giveaway!</div>bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-28631241918963755362013-06-27T22:59:00.003-07:002013-06-28T09:59:43.364-07:00not sure who had more fun...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Our family doesn't go to amusement parks much because they are so stinkin pricey.<br />
<br />
There was that one AWESOME trip to Disneyland...but nothing since then.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NojJpe99I0g/Uc0aRJ-hCLI/AAAAAAAASw0/6iZKfVayQkY/w800-h532-no/disneyland.jpg" /><br />
<br />
So when my neighbor/dear friend Patty mentioned a trip to Legoland(LL), I got all giddy. I know many people have been before and it's not THAT big of a deal. But when it happens to YOU and YOUR offspring, all of a sudden it's like the most exciting thing on the planet. We don't get out much, obviously.<br />
<br />
I took my 2 older boys and drove down with Patty and her 2 boys. A hotel made of legos? At $400 a night, a girl can only dream...<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FIQuIcqTIQU/Uc0LINFVdAI/AAAAAAAASuw/YdDwX7RTXrw/w800-h400-no/lego+hotel.jpg" /><br />
While Disneyland has all the sweet nostalgia, Legoland gets points for the cool factor. Modern. Hip. Creative designs. Interactive. Kind of like how Ikea would build an amusement park, if they had one.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-46pRqwOY61U/Uc0LN7iWSRI/AAAAAAAASvE/jZbafeLxijs/w800-h400-no/sweden.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I was blown away by Miniland. Tiny lego replicas of almost every major US landmark. It really was something else.<br />
<br />
I think this is San Fransisco but I'm not 100% sure...I have issues with geography.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-FQWEaby5YRk/Uc0StBMi7VI/AAAAAAAASwE/lOZafJyDbDY/w808-h604-no/IMG_2245.JPG" /><br />
I tried to take a selfie in front of the Golden Gate Bridge, but people were standing in the way. Rude.<br />
<br />
They even built a mini RV park, haha. Maybe I can sleep here...<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHgUJG3a-iF1oZZVtJEbZtsZz8yGxgwcLhhGaVplikpchbtGtFPfXqNY3EzuHivJ5dnzjnLQcekXF7W7c44lU3g43xyOF543yMOnUdB13F_JNyROza-p73xLNzYl39CLpHtjlv4m6und_/w800-h598-no/IMG_2248.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /><br />
<br />
Who needs NY when I can go to LL?<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iMAEUytRutg/Uc0LOCBKLrI/AAAAAAAASvI/AAhnkvC0S-0/w800-h400-no/davi+NY.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7-R0PuoZoyw/Uc0LD7RjFlI/AAAAAAAASuY/aL2iEOqCVcI/w800-h400-no/NY.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Star Wars galore. Why hello Han.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wNSlBOA8oo4/Uc0LM17VkPI/AAAAAAAASu4/Ar01uXgJdf0/w800-h400-no/r2+and+han.jpg" /><br />
I have a serious lego crush.<br />
<br />
The rides and roller coasters were perfect for my boys' ages.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xHXPzipxdXs/Uc0LPLZjy7I/AAAAAAAASvQ/vLVmFfFMMkU/w800-h598-no/IMG_2175+copy.jpg" /><br />
Not too scary, but enough to give them a thrill. Well, Calvin was terrified and refused more than one coaster.<br />
<br />
My personal favorite was a coaster called Technic. It was scary guys.<br />
<br />
There was a cool race track but they wouldn't let adults ride. I was bitter. The kids were all running to grab a car and poor Calvin was the last one to find an empty car. It was the Hunger Games up in there.<br />
<br />
Finn loved a ride called the Claw. Seriously that ride is like a troll is picking you up and shaking you to oblivion. Fuuuuun--if you like getting your back misaligned and your skull shaken.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8Zw4Xx4nvyc/Uc0Lmj4dWpI/AAAAAAAASvg/IMDXgpZQzJw/w800-h400-no/the+claw.jpg" /><br />
I said "No" to a lady who cut in line with a multitude of kids. She yelled at me. And flashed a special pass. Whoops. Should I have kept my mouth shut? Probably. I later asked God to forgive me of my wicked ways.<br />
<br />
I was simultaneously horrified and fascinated with the Lego girls. They were pretty much picture perfect in every way. Dads walking by were drooling while they were performing. I kid you not. Ick.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-cC2iZYBFpCg/Uc0LGDYBUII/AAAAAAAASuo/rhZ1DIn1z9s/w800-h400-no/lego+girls.jpg" /><br />
My 5-year-old self was enamored by their wigs, outfits and dance routines.<br />
The sarcastic <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juno_(film)">Juno</a> in me was mocking and rolling her eyes.<br />
<br />
But as you can see, the 5-year-old won out and I got in line with all the other kids to take a picture with them. Don't judge. It was not an easy task.<br />
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My iPhone died an early death that day, hence ending this post. LL had a lot to offer and I was duly impressed.</div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-81078090752326081212013-06-24T08:07:00.000-07:002013-07-01T22:48:33.529-07:00Shabby Apple $50 giftcard giveaway!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have a fantastic giveaway for ya'll today! You have the chance to win a $50 gift card to Shabby Apple.<br />
<br />
Shabby Apple is an online dress boutique that specializes in vintage and retro dresses. Click <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/c-458-vintage-style.aspx">here</a> to see their extensive selection. I'm convinced they have a dress style for EVERYONE.</div>
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OUCZU9RzPJw/UcecVbB1mSI/AAAAAAAASs4/S7mdksJwy6k/w800-h500-no/dresses.jpg" /><br />
<i>All photographs on this post are from <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/">Shabby Apple</a>.</i><br />
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They also have the <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/c-55-swim.aspx">cutest vintage swimsuits</a> I've seen around. I would literally wear each swim suit they make. Love. Love. Love.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oCKiop8EsfM/UcecVQ52XgI/AAAAAAAASs8/Web_aLl8Gvc/w800-h500-no/swim.jpg" /><br />
Do you think I could roll my hair like this? I should learn.<br />
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And no lie, but I have been wanting these EXACT same taupe peep-toe-heels for a while now. The first time I saw someone wearing them with skinny jeans, I was kinda drooling. Just ask my friends.<br />
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZleOYWEhsrQ/UcecUmbyClI/AAAAAAAASss/akKnlRAQHlU/w800-h300-no/shoes.jpg" /></div>
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<b><strike>To enter:</strike> This giveaway is now closed. Winner has been selected and contacted! Thanks for participating!</b><br />
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"like" Shabby Apple on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shabby-Apple/56291792791?fref=ts">Facebook</a> and let me know in the comments below.<br />
<br />
For extra entries, leave a separate comment for each.<br />
1. Follow them on <a href="http://instagram.com/shabbyappleclothing">instagram(shabbyappleclothing)</a><br />
2. Share this giveaway on your fb, instagram or twitter<br />
3. Tell me your favorite shabby apple dress or swim suit<br />
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<i>Be sure that your email is linked to your comment profile, or please leave it in your comment so I can contact you if you win. </i><i>If you don't have a google account, you can leave your comment(s) on my shabby apple instagram post(davirebecca).</i><br />
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<b>Winner will be selected and announced next Monday, July 1st. </b></div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2604493001487428914.post-508706896424805032013-06-21T16:57:00.001-07:002013-06-23T21:58:38.893-07:00My worst texting blunder to date. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The other day, my dear friend <a href="http://justinandbarbie.blogspot.com/">Barbie</a> sent a cute picture of herself by text saying "I realized today I have caterpillar eyebrows and I need both of your professional eyebrow shaping help".<br />
<br />
Just the night before I had been lamenting to myself the state of <i>my own</i> eyebrows. They were just very uneven. I tried plucking and snipping them into proper form, but let's face it: I have NO clue what proper eyebrows are supposed to look like. One time I completely snipped off the end of one of my brows, by accident. I needed professional help, ha.<br />
<br />
So when Barbie texted that SHE needed professional eyebrow help too, I understood her woes and instantly tried to reassure her that<i> my eyebrows</i> looked like a wreck and that I needed professional help too!<br />
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So I quickly typed my message to her in list form, along with a few other things we were discussing...blah blah blah.<br />
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And then clicked SEND.<br />
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And then I re-read the message, after I had already sent it. <i>Do any of you do that? Quickly send a message THEN read it? </i><br />
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Well, I got a little shock to my system.<br />
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<u>What I MEANT to write:</u><br />
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1. Barbie. My eyebrows are a wreck right now. I eventually need a pro to reshape them!<br />
2. blah blah blah<br />
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<u>What I ACTUALLY wrote(I'm convinced my phone is possessed).</u><br />
1. Barbie's eyebrows are a wreck right now. I eventually need a pro to reshape them!<br />
2. blah blah blah.<br />
<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DhNQiHIw14c/UcTb_4pMJcI/AAAAAAAASrc/xO6I-mybU1s/w800-h400-no/eyebrows.jpg" /><br />
I have NO clue how my phone autocorrected that horrific response. I was completely appalled. Can you imagine if someone told you that your eyebrows were a wreck and needed a pro to reshape them? I die.<br />
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And the worse part is that I went on cluelessly typing the rest of my list to her like it was NO BIG DEAL...like..."Oh btw your eyebrows suck and yay I love bowling!" GAH!<br />
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I panicked and called Barbie IMMEDIATELY to correct my accidental text and to profusely apologize. Thankfully she picked her phone right up and she just laughed about the whole thing. Omygoodness, she is SUCH a good sport.<br />
<br />
But I was SO STRESSED. Because I sent the text to dear friend Megan too and I didn't want her to think I was the rudest person on the planet. Megan was running errands at the time and I could not get ahold of her and I had to wait the whole morning to resolve the whole issue. A part of me died a little more each time I read my guffaw.<br />
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But I have learned one extremely valuable lesson: PROOFREAD.<br />
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I mean, what if something happened like this on a business text or something and you never caught it?<br />
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Yes. Now I read what I write before I click send. Well, I TRY.<br />
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The next day I was commenting on my friend's pic on insta and <i>meant</i> to write:<br />
Oh hello!<br />
But what came out was: Oh hell!<br />
Crikey. Strike 2.<br />
<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-s846Yu8zfgo/UcTb_hhOAzI/AAAAAAAASrY/-MWHjc5UDMQ/w800-h235-no/insta.jpg" /><br />
And who is this davirebecca? It's ME. <a href="http://instagram.com/davirebecca">On instagram</a>. My middle name is Rebecca, hence davirebecca. I'm pretty stoked that I have a girlie middle name.<br />
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In other news. I got my very first manicure ever. I know it's pretty commonplace, but it was kind of a big deal over here and required much discussing. I was on the phone with my oldest sister and said:<br />
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"I'm getting a pedicure! Wee! I've always dreamed of getting french tip on my toes!!!"<br />
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She replies, "Oh Davi, those are SO out of style. All my message boards say so.<br />
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Wot wot wot went the sad trombone. I was completely outta style and had no clue. Bah!<br />
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"Well alrighty then! What IS in style", I asked.<br />
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To which she replied: "short fingernails, bright colors, ombre, wild prints like you used to do as a kid..."<br />
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Apparenty I used to paint my nails a lot as a kid. I have no recollection of my childhood.<br />
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**edited per my sister, lol: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Cantarell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">No! Davi Rebecca, French tips on TOES are out of style! French tips on fingernails are classic and can't go out of stye, so say the ladies on the message board. ANd since it's on the internet, it has to be true!**</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Cantarell; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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When I entered the nail salon, it took me FOREVER to pick the proper shade of coral. This shouldn't be that tricky folks. But apparently I am high maintenance (ME?!) and was annoying the heck out of the workers(ME?!). Not to mention, coral is a very nondescript color. What is coral to one, is red to another, is orange to another, and is pink to another. I digress.<br />
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The owner did my nails and convinced me to do gels, so they last longer. When I came home, I felt so fancy. My boys couldn't stop staring. And touching them.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7rKCuQx9Cm8/UcTiewhFyBI/AAAAAAAASsM/fxz3-ztPstE/w800-h388-no/first+manicure.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /><br />
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I awoke in the middle of the night with a complete panic attack(no lie) that I would get some horrid nail fungus, or disease from the manicure tools jabbing me.<br />
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If I am ever brave enough to go again(or do them myself with my own tools), I think these designs are sorta cute. Not the x'd out one. And the colors of the left photo are yucky.<br />
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zB-lzKFLJO4/UcTb_lxtoMI/AAAAAAAASrQ/Tw6nfwlz7EU/w800-h400-no/nails.jpg" /><br />
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So in short, I make horrid texting blunders and am clueless with eyebrow and nail style trends. Oh and let's not forget, I'm kinda annoying in a nail salon. Am a germophobe and have midnight panic attacks. Amen.<br />
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Linking up with <a href="tp://www.capturingmotherhood.com/2013/06/picture-me-imperfectly-unpacking/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=picture-me-imperfectly-unpacking">Capturing Motherhood</a>.<br />
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KYogVuz9dCQ/UYGseubf57I/AAAAAAAARWs/kIcIYyFZ4LU/s200-no/200x200xpictureme9.jpg.pagespeed.ic.eTLeo-I-Ej.jpg" /></div>
bandofbrothershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00611181345258921571noreply@blogger.com21