tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44214858480852250792024-03-12T22:05:41.902-07:00Scasta USA, Population 5ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-24478422207284608662012-08-02T13:17:00.000-07:002012-08-02T13:17:56.097-07:00The BIG 3-0!!When I turned 30 I was either going to stay at home and cry, or have a big party. We opted for the party, and I'm glad we did. 30 was a big year. It's a big transition, even though you don't actually feel different... lots of things change. The biggest being, you're not "twenty something" anymore. <br />
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Isn't that SAD? <br />
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Derek was on the road to taking 30 pretty hard too. (not really, but it was a good excuse to party & not cry) So, we loaded up and went exploring Ames, IA. It was a fun day, and maybe next year we can get to the things we missed this trip. <br />
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Enjoy the pictures!!<br />
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First stop - Birthday Lunch at Hickory Park Restaurant, boasts of best BBQ, and an entire menu of Blue Bunny Ice Cream deserts.<br />
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We strolled downtown & shopped at some awesome upscale consignment shops, then went to the Reiman Gardens located on ISU's campus. This was a lot of fun. They had an indoor tropical butterfly paradise! They had some of the biggest butterflies I have ever seen!! L loved this part! <br />
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Using her binoculars to find the butterflies. <br />
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They also had LEGO sculptures throughout the grounds. They were quite remarkable. Here are a few.<br />
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Derek was a bit grumpy in this photo, and I can't remember why...</div>
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but this is what he gets for being grumpy on his birthday. </div>
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After this, we went to Blue Moon Winery to catch some live music. And ended the night at Wal-mart, because that's what Americans do... go to Walmart to get the things you need before you go home. <br />
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Fun day, for sure!<br />
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Lucky for Derek, his birthday actually fell on a Monday. I couldn't let the actual day go unnoticed even though we celebrated on Sunday. SO, I made his favorite foods as per his request: Stuffed Bell Peppers, Guacamole, & homemade Apple Pie. <br />
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<br />ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-19795927708395793712012-07-29T14:16:00.000-07:002012-07-29T14:16:06.924-07:00National Balloon ClassicLast night we went out for some family fun. We traveled up the highway, a few towns over, and spent the evening outside in some beautiful 80 degree weather. I have made a new personal goal of getting back into running, and working towards 5K runs throughout the year. My first was a "community run" on 4th of July, that I enjoyed running with my sister-n-law. My goal then was to just see where I was, since I hadn't actually run that distance since before Lainey was born. I was proud to finish without passing out somewhere on the run... and that was considered a big accomplishment. <br />
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This run, all I wanted to do was "better." Not putting any real pressure to beat my time, but instead to just feel better about it. Feel better while I'm running, and feel better after the run. I am proud to say that this felt better... and I happened to beat my first time by a minute and a half. Yea!! Next run is in October. This is my friend Leah, who started running again last summer after having her 4th child. She is now training for a half marathon!! I'm so proud of her!!<br />
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After the race we went to the balloon launch site. It was late and we unfortunately missed the launch. We did get to enjoy the night glow & that was good enough for us. L was beside herself, getting to see balloons that were SO BIG!! Here's a few pictures:<br />
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Last year when we went, you weren't allowed to walk around where the balloons were launching. I think, because they weren't actually launching, they let people walk around the launch site. Derek & L really got to see the upclose works of hot air balloons. </div>
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Here are a few pictures of what we got to see last year: </div>
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<br /></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-20650985903248328462012-07-25T18:25:00.001-07:002012-07-26T11:38:04.300-07:00Scooter TooterK is a scooter. She's a tummy sleeper. From day one we couldn't get her to sleep for long periods of time on her back. She hated to be swaddled, and didn't really sleep well the first two weeks of life because we were forcing her to sleep on her back. Once we figured out she was a tummy sleeper, we all slept better. <br />
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Here (in the picture) is what she does. Note where the blanket is, and where she is now. Sometimes she'll even scoot her way around the corner and back to the opposite side of the crib. You never really know where she'll be in the morning. <br />
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I'm imagining what our girls slumber parties will be like when Daddy is out of town and the girls get to sleep with me. : ) </div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-29680976832008091912012-07-25T18:09:00.000-07:002012-07-29T13:15:42.265-07:00We also fix things...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When Scastas get together something is going to get fixed. Need a pole barn built? Invite your sons. Need to build a cooker? Go visit your dad. Need to drop an engine? Call your brother. <br />
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It's just how it goes. I don't know why. It just is. <br />
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Here we have a picture of the boys replacing my break pads, and the girls... well, fixing something. <br />
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Because that's what we do.ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-1499561171277837422012-07-25T10:54:00.001-07:002012-07-25T10:54:20.433-07:00Swimming!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXf8UNeNa7ZZ2gEzj5UCnHZUOpBcEtf-83QDbK_njHGJtt07Uc7Kcj9X7QjZGQSTUMzYGhI2aA_lv31Zb32qfX0o82SqIXh3o8u8FnIEFfgg38zsi4cJxgQMjUuYTr8FycIOvTi8Y3TT0/s1600/DSC_0793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXf8UNeNa7ZZ2gEzj5UCnHZUOpBcEtf-83QDbK_njHGJtt07Uc7Kcj9X7QjZGQSTUMzYGhI2aA_lv31Zb32qfX0o82SqIXh3o8u8FnIEFfgg38zsi4cJxgQMjUuYTr8FycIOvTi8Y3TT0/s320/DSC_0793.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHMLvbtPtV-aUmvxtUpqO6gbmzbWrMkBFWNxWtZqIXXVL2ikWuxzIgOFLrZzF3KQNHoGbTTzVHu7_evbG-AVYWxHYlMFFzNQPFbv0Ey-PEdvjpo6Hhyh_yn3foWSpc99T8KYFGl6QSj4/s1600/glasses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHMLvbtPtV-aUmvxtUpqO6gbmzbWrMkBFWNxWtZqIXXVL2ikWuxzIgOFLrZzF3KQNHoGbTTzVHu7_evbG-AVYWxHYlMFFzNQPFbv0Ey-PEdvjpo6Hhyh_yn3foWSpc99T8KYFGl6QSj4/s320/glasses.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Is there a better way to cool off from the summer heat than to jump in the pool? I think NOT. L loves the water this year, and is not one to play on the steps of the pool any more. YEA! Here are a few pics of us enjoying the water spots around the state....<br />
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Our local pool. You can figure out which one is D, because he's the WHITE boy waving. You might need your sunglasses. : ) <br />
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K, sunning her buns. <br />
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The pool in the town just north of us is so great. We love to go there. It's the same price as our local pool, but there's tons of shade & seating, a BIG OLE SLIDE, zero entry shallow end, mushroom waterfall, and a sprinkler area. We didn't think L would really like the slide, but after she watched some kids do it - she wanted to too. As soon as we got to the steps with her, she'd say "Let's do it again." We had to distract her, to move on to something else. This is also a great place to take K, because of the beach like shallow end, and all the umbrella shading. <br />
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Finally, there is a cool little splash pad in the city that we've visited a few times. In the same park is a refurbished carousel that only costs $.50 a ride, and a few different playground areas scattered amongst the picnic tables. It's a great place to enjoy a morning or afternoon with little kids. </div>
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<br />ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-90917871715522255582012-07-24T10:49:00.000-07:002012-07-26T11:47:15.867-07:00Summers Up NorthI have been a horrible blogger this summer. I have done two posts, but neither were about our summer in Iowa. At this point we are about to go home.. so I better do a little catching up. <br />
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We left around May 23rd to get here. It was, surprisingly an easy drive with kids in tow. We made a 6.5 hr drive into an 8 hr drive. We stopped 3 times in the first hour for L, but after that we were able to cover some ground. Our summer apartment is small & cozy. Derek calls it our summer cottage, because I think he thinks it makes us feel we live in a "more fortunate" social class, than the less fortunate. I guess it's all relative, right? For those of you who wonder how we do it.. we only pack what will fit in our two cars. That consists of beds, a card table, a minimal set of dishes & cookware, small box of toys, a small TV (we can only watch movies), a dog kennel and clothes/towels/sheets. That's it. We are blessed with a sweet group of friends who have let us borrow every thing else we need - mainly furniture. We do without a lot, but we never miss it. We're usually too busy spending time outside, & doing things that we don't normally get to do/see. We've seen L go a week at a time without picking up any of her toys. It's amazing how little you really need to get by. <br />
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This year we have been blessed with visiting family. It's been awesome to have them come up and see us. For one, it makes you feel NOT so far away, and two it makes the summer go by fast. Derek's parents came up for a weekend in early June. His brother & his family came up at the end of June for a week. The same day that they left, Derek's sister and her family came up for the week. <br />
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Some of our activities while we had visitors included: exploring the city, swimming at the pool & at the nearby State Park, going to see movies - Madagascar 3 & Brave, 4th of July parade & cook out, Amish shopping, and lots and lots of good ole visiting & playing. Our visitors also did some of their own sight seeing while they were here. Unfortunately they were all here during the peak of the heat. <br />
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I don't want to forget to mention that while Derek's brother was here, he bought a used truck. <br />
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SO, we also got to see him & Courtney's brother Brandon when they came back to pick up the truck. As they left, we talked to Uncle Mike & found out he'd be passing through that evening. We had the pleasure of having him over for dinner that night & getting in a good visit with him. </div>
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Derek's sister & family.</div>
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Derek's brother & family. These cows are at the visitor's center... and the other picture is of the girls leaving the movie theater. And of course, a handsome Uncle Mark taking care of Baby K. </div>
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We spent a morning with an organic farmer who has/runs a CSA. Bibi and Papa wanted to learn all they could from Farmer Sherman, as they venture into their own operation. Bibi also spent an evening doing a "photo shoot" with the girls... and Bear. </div>
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<br /></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-33052934363659638892012-06-18T16:06:00.001-07:002012-07-24T10:10:20.200-07:00<strong>****I've asked Derek to post a little something about his parents' new farm. It's a life long dream that they've recently has the pleasure to jump head first into. This might be more of a Small Cattle Operation 101 post, but I hope you will enjoy learning about the cattle side of their endeavor. Maybe I'll post more about the gardening side in the futre.... </strong><br />
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In May we made a trip to Texas to my parents new home. They recently purchased a small farm, complete with the original farm house. My parents are striving to make their farm a diversified, sustainable farm that provides some income and the country lifestyle. They have a lot of enterprises but I am only going to discuss a few here. If you want to see more about their farm you can check out their blog at <a href="http://www.scastafarm.blogspot.com/">http://www.scastafarm.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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They have decided to add a beef enterprise to the farm and by design it has a lot of flexibility built into it. Due to the historic drought of 2011, the reduced cow herd in Texas, and increasing consumer demand and prices for beef they decided to focus on heifers. They purchased three heifers from the neighbor at weaning time in May. This happened to coincide with our trip home. <br />
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The strategy of purchasing them from the neighbor (versus from a sale barn or other source) allowed them some advantages: 1) the calves had not been commingled with other cattle reducing possible sickness/health issues, 2) the calves did not have to be shipped which reduces possible respiratory issues, 3) the calves could be fence-lined weaned which reduces stress and enhances early performance as they transition to an all grass diet (no more milk), 4) they maximized the knowledge about the animals in a way they would be unable to if they purchased them from somewhere else (they know what the sire and dams look like, they know when they were born, they know if they are adapted to the area, they know what they have had (or not had) in terms of health and management, and they had a chance to observe their disposition) and lastly, if the calves got out they would not go very far. Disposition turned out to be important as there was a fourth heifer that proved herself to be a jumper and so they avoided purchasing her at a place with really good pens, taking her home, dumping her out and never seeing her again. <br />
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Heifers are a challenge for producers to acquire in terms of financial costs and time required for development. If you retain them, you have to allow for additional grazing and you are 2 years away from any profit versus if you purchase them as replacements often times they are expensive (especially if bred). This challenge creates opportunities for people who want to specialize in raising replacements. First, weaned calves typically result in steers going for more than heifers (due to future performance) so the inital purchase can be a bit cheaper than say stocker steers. The flexibility comes into the heifer operation because you can liquidate the heifers at various stages along the way with the likelihood of recooping your investment: 1) you could graze them like a stocker calf on summer grass and sell as a heavy feeder, 2) you could carry them a bit longer and sell them as yearling replacements ready to be bred, 3) you could breed them at 12 to 14 months and sell them as breds, 4) you could breed them, calve them out and sell them as pairs or 5) you could breed them, calve them out and decide to keep them yourself as cows. <br />
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When we loaded the heifers up, we "processed" them before putting them in a weaning pen close to the house for 2 weeks. First, we gave them a visual ear tag. Second, we administered injections that protect them from a variety of problems, including: 1) Clostridial diseases like Blackleg which cause death in calves, 2) Leptospirosis which is an abortive disease and 3) IBR BVD PI3 which protects primarily agains respiratory and diarrheal problems like Red Nose (IBR) which is often associated with shipping fever but can cause reproduvtive problems in females and BVD or Bovine Viral Diarrhea. We did this in the trailer by snubbing them to the side. This is the poor boys way of working calves but Dad doesn't have pens and a chute all put together yet but that is in the works. Proper working facilities are pretty critical to any beef operation, don't have to be fancy just functional to protect both cattle and handlers. One other vaccination that is often recommended but not required is for Brucellosis but ultimately it has been eradicated and is not a major issue. It might be an advantage when selling replacements, especially if one thinks they will market them to a really wide region (out of state, out of country, etc). A booster shot is recommended down the road on the shots we gave.<br />
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The calves were put in the weaning pen for 2 weeks where they could still see, hear and smell their mothers. There was certainly some noise for several days but they settled down pretty quick. The other component to the beef operation was the purchase of a bull calf from the same neighbors. He received the same processing as the heifers but he also was castrated. He will be grazed until he reaches an ideal harvest weight and then used for beef. <br />
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Dad crossfenced the place and has two pastures. The front pasture is more of a hay meadow with a mix of bermudagrass and some cool season grasses and clovers. The back pastures is more of a range/prairie type of pasture with more warm season native grass and forbs. It has more mesquite back there. The primary grass on the back pastures is meadow dropseed which is fair for grazing and is common on high clay content soils. There are lots of interesting native forbs back there like indian blanket and upright prairie coneflower. Other cool plants found include the native grass vine mesquite and Texas bluebonnets.<br />
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My parents are also planting a large gardent with vegetables, berries and fruits. They are planning on having laying hens and the chicken house is almost done. They have tons of other plans and are having a blast. I am so proud for them right now and enjoyed being at home in May to help a little bit. The other thing we did for "fun", was to put the metal roof on the tractor shed. Scasta men think "fun" is spelled W O R K.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFHVpeti1LcqEWRBgl0qVg7uOipbajI09nzemMDwFdeND40CKbuESPLpBgbppaI3AXb_WT5tZB_EUS01TrIi825NPgLPbRshbQba8E_HBYA3o31SpaNMimf4Z4uC7QKBFAq-m05cm-go/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFHVpeti1LcqEWRBgl0qVg7uOipbajI09nzemMDwFdeND40CKbuESPLpBgbppaI3AXb_WT5tZB_EUS01TrIi825NPgLPbRshbQba8E_HBYA3o31SpaNMimf4Z4uC7QKBFAq-m05cm-go/s320/DSC_0048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-61889297455895217152012-06-05T07:38:00.000-07:002012-06-05T07:38:42.161-07:00Newborn Photo ShootShould I say it again... we are doing things different with our second child? The first pictures I had taken of L were not until she was about two and a half months old. Remember, I wasn't getting out of the house much...let alone camping or having pictures taken.<br />
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They say that all you have to do for a newborn photo shoot is tank the baby up on milk and you can mold them and shape them to do anything you want. Well, I'm here to tell you that isn't exactly how it works in the real world. We spent 4 hrs taking pictures of K. There are some super cute ones but what you don't see is the squirming, feeding, crying and consoling. Luckily Blayr was super patient and is a quick & efficient photographer. For this to be her first newborn shoot, I think she did mighty fine. <br />
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Here are just a few of my favorites of K, 14 days old: <br />
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I've already mentioned that we do things a little different with baby #2. Camping at 5 weeks was NOT on our radar with L. But if you can nurse, sleep, poop & be up in the middle of the night at home, you can do it in a camper too! <br />
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We really try to get out and see the sights around us where ever we live. I have friends who have never done some of the fun, free things around our town in all the years that they've lived there. And at this time in our lives it's even more important that we find those FREE/CHEAP things to do around us, but I hope that it's never something that we forget to explore. <br />
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Camping is one of our favorite - cheap - get out of the house things to do. We drove an hour north to get to this lake. I thought it was going to have a beach to play at in the park where we camped, but it didn't. It was a separate part of the lake & unfortunately the weather wasn't warm enough for us to visit the beach. However, it didn't slow us down. We enjoyed the lady bugs & butterflies, played with rocks, sticks & sand, relaxed in the hammock, chilled out by the campfire, read some books, and slept in the comforts of our cozy little camper. <br />
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Derek loves to take pictures of his truck & our camper. So enjoy this one: <br />
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Everyone got to enjoy the hammock. <br />
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Even K!<br />
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It was actually pretty cool that weekend, so it was a perfect time for a campfire.<br />
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Getting ready to turn off the light. Notice who has to get in one last feeding before bed. : ) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdbBp5Ci0eqNo_Xa7jjA9S-roCNwO5zRAbkx22jbmT6esvMYuZNXRNzd8srj2ItkTWoIZEJwqDJgguBrTVsX9Y0x2MrL54CUntjwM-IVohhb8AN5KOfPOUd8knVjIoQAfkWT1sa-1hVE/s1600/DSCN5013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdbBp5Ci0eqNo_Xa7jjA9S-roCNwO5zRAbkx22jbmT6esvMYuZNXRNzd8srj2ItkTWoIZEJwqDJgguBrTVsX9Y0x2MrL54CUntjwM-IVohhb8AN5KOfPOUd8knVjIoQAfkWT1sa-1hVE/s320/DSCN5013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-51550937282625313942012-05-03T13:20:00.002-07:002012-05-03T13:21:21.944-07:00How well do you know your celebrities?Derek is amazing at spotting "famous" people. I'm not kidding. He spotted a guy in the subway in Washington DC. <br />
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SO... if you saw THIS picture, would you know who she was? Horrible picture of me... but who is looking at me anyways?<br />
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Yes, she is wearing dog ears, and YES that is Ree Drummond. As in <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/" target="_blank">THE Pioneer Woman</a>! <br />
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Rhondalyn and I loaded up all 4 girls, skipped bible study (Lord forgive us), and went to the zoo to see Ree. The zoo was promoting reading to preschoolers and had special activities all day long, a free book for every child, and story time with Ree. She wrote a children's book about her dog Charlie and did a wonderful job reading it to the children (she was sooo animated!): <br />
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She also has two cook books, a "romance" novel about how she met her husband, and a cooking show. She lives about 2 hrs away from us on one of the largest ranches in the state. </div>
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Enough about her... we had a really fun day with the girls. We listened to story time with Ree, packed a picnic lunch, saw most of the animals, and stopped at Sonic on the way home for a cold drink to top off the hot day. It doesn't sound like much as I sit here and type, but it really was A LOT to do with our brood. The kids were exhausted when we left, but surprisingly stayed awake the entire drive home. I think L was just too excited to be sitting next to her friend in our van. What a treat!</div>
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<br /></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-64354163605146961192012-04-08T19:08:00.006-07:002012-04-08T20:08:28.228-07:00Happy Easter!<div><div><div><div>HE has risen! And we are so <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">grateful</span> for an empty tomb. An event that changed the world forever. </div><div>.</div><div>We had a wonderful Easter. Here's a few photos of our weekend: </div><div>.</div><div>Easter Egg Hunt- L's hand is a blur, because she shook each egg before she put it in her basket. I guess she wanted to make sure there was candy in there??</div><div>.<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 300px; height: 400px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729220338490695362" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTsLogIWjDP2yuLIcGGjXrUSgkeX8gZJ4qe6LZAW5I9CyyTpYZgTxOq5sQqqAO_m35UW1-ZsRvhumyvEb1FtIFOuAhjMyzsA8AeDNjqakz2rqLngiNQqAfX2uHl_EecnHDtOdZZdUBQc/s400/DSCN4926.JPG" /></div><div>Dying Eggs with L. (wearing a costume we have in her dress up box, in case you're wondering)</div><div>.<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729229741815114498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX04PZrMyNarlK6pGb2-zozAItdzgPV9bvqig7yn-uPrL2C1evTh-DcbogeXM-R9rzyBF0YOB7DwnO2pDXo_xLkPRtdJ9a6lIwYKkm7Yj1EOuUUOcdGf8u71bYMV0D8NT2LPaPtChFQ3g/s400/DSCN4940.JPG" /></div><div>Easter Dresses for Easter Sunday. The first time we let L really HOLD K. It wasn't too much of a disaster, although K doesn't look too trusting of her sister...</div><div>.<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 300px; height: 400px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729230650470147458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOCW4anEPK38K9IR6kTYkSda1x2BQNc-eDPgRz_n9ErlwqVrkPZP80Oc1nU__YSXbsBuVzmUcU7cjqqRTh_S0Nu4HzpQIuz3uxt-npKpdzm7V1EWTIOTLQ3hekGpRa-SkaJ3hOGv5iBwE/s400/DSCN4953.JPG" /></div><div>We had a wonderful Easter lunch with two families from our church. One couple is from Iowa, and our friends, the Richardson's, are <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">OKies</span> but had no plans to visit with family this year. We all pitched in for lunch, and had quite a spread. We all have 2 children, and the kids really enjoyed playing and having an Easter Egg Hunt after lunch. It was such a fun afternoon. We got home just in time to enjoy a nice Sunday afternoon nap. </div><div> .</div><div>One last picture of K sitting in her big sister's chair.</div><div> </div><div> <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 300px; height: 400px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729231658765407122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxqx0Sk8ZJDlT31ayCQdb6UCopt4W2kngC5lqLexfW-u74JZVCjjBQesMOzopdINJ4AyyIEzPBtmOiAYsvQASmW72h3RPPrfPU1i4ZK3Z1WoIXQzJjY7SnOzyg53X6oFCJ-SqH2gMe35A/s400/DSCN4939.JPG" /></div><div> </div></div></div></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-34042785462812496132012-03-31T19:06:00.004-07:002012-06-05T07:40:41.330-07:00This time around...<div>
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... I've taken a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">different</span> approach to mothering an infant. I'm sure it's the same for every mother of a second child. I feel that one of the major factors that has contributed to my activity this time around is that I didn't have major abdominal surgery to bring my babe into the world. Wow, what a difference it makes! With that being said, our family has really been out and about - considering we have a 2 week old baby. We weren't doing this much until L was about 3 months old...if not older. </div>
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This morning we went back out to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Blayr's</span> place and had K's newborn pictures taken. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726249358234829458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0tCDVOrx5jviqVNhXPdz859pR-TwMYzlFnrxcD2PxHl2khDf-OskYKWdj4zkxAZCriZVz4Phh20dHV_BlZJNF3b04foam9wuYcuv2OGotP3kFk_72jyp122_yzWyw3Umn_AGBCVGXaw/s400/Blayr.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" />Of course it'll be a few weeks before we get them back, but here's a sneak peek of them... just a shot from my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">iTouch</span>. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726249583588261346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxu15IyuTYAFtssFYJH0-sHcNEuxkfK8bhV_eUWhAwnLAEwWcPWqypzsOYA97JD8HdfUcoXGbKIlKT9ri3LlyLi1gZqD7QCSpoI3aX77giiJEA5q56Xh0C7HpQLrn7SMrxOFIeEewAqt4/s400/Kennedyblanket.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-15321537261008736432012-03-27T18:41:00.003-07:002012-03-27T19:24:27.566-07:0033 & ME<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJcKk2E469p278BuUulYTYikYAn3XujSiylyIWbpNKmvfjJGE04sYnQzYCWDJbJg8gJoGbYHJ4paMLSkU5pu3HK3sTSfgTIuGYz7Q2AETfKC2r07V8cSoM2FqkM85T-fa0CYCeJlhrWs/s1600/birthday.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724766081379881458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJcKk2E469p278BuUulYTYikYAn3XujSiylyIWbpNKmvfjJGE04sYnQzYCWDJbJg8gJoGbYHJ4paMLSkU5pu3HK3sTSfgTIuGYz7Q2AETfKC2r07V8cSoM2FqkM85T-fa0CYCeJlhrWs/s400/birthday.JPG" /></a><br /><div>33 feels good. 33 looks good. See the picture...is there anything more a girl could ask for? </div><div> </div><div>Thanks for all the FB wishes, phone calls, and cards! Love you all.</div><div> </div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-46768034655527022862012-03-25T08:31:00.008-07:002012-06-05T07:41:56.289-07:00What you've all be waiting for...<div>
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At the hospital with Big Sister: </div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723858933481396498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93_vk2coPjJWp5AJgAT5_0zIPu33QZG4M5saNxYyz1-pNUHQ00jQ-hQ-j5uDAUeDWCu_MMnOpxfeJ8x8u9sIuQsoWvCIJIX8PtmsTKu5P06Q8uvj-SmSyj9pVHCP9j0HSjeBuj4QIjFI/s400/DSCN4811.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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Checking out of the hospital. A headband looks like an obnoxious "sweat band" when it doesn't have a flower or bow on it... don't ya think? </div>
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Finally a good picture of her face with her eyes open!: </div>
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Tummy time. </div>
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We've had a great week and a half as a family of 4. We've had to survive 4 days straight of rain with a 2 year old and baby in the house, 2 days without <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">internet</span>, we've gone to a movie and to the Children's museum, and we've had lots of visitors. I know I've already been labeled "funny" for not plastering pictures all over <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">facebook</span> of our family... but just so you know... we're all healthy and happy, we're soaking up these numbered days of having a newborn at home, and we're limiting our time with other distractions like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">internet</span>, and TV. It's a delicate time for L, a sweet time with baby and we're doing the best we know how to ease into this next chapter of life. Email/<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">facebook</span> is usually checked during feedings, when L is napping or in bed for the night... with one hand to type replies. We'll put plenty of pictures here, with updates as things happen.</div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-57498432237229960752012-03-21T18:38:00.002-07:002012-06-05T07:42:22.022-07:00She's HERE!<div>
Kennedy Rhea made her first appearance at 4:24 am on Thursday morning March 15<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span>. She was 6 lbs 13 oz, and 19 3/4 " long. She's a beauty, just like her sister. </div>
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Labor started Tuesday night around 11pm, and lasted a V E R Y L O N G T I M E. Labor & delivery were a very special & surreal experience. We're so thankful for my midwife & her student, and for the facilities we used. We praise God for a successful <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">VBAC</span>!</div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-82152918907543367622012-03-12T18:47:00.012-07:002012-06-05T07:44:40.237-07:00Big Sister Day<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAF4jnlR5y0GJIDNm-LSJRJLda_3RMqs1ot-hydtXVEPn1S7DgIDWXqkHF6ohwv8WSmB7qF6wTyIaNoONsbNfParEJ7fLrr20TSyhyphenhyphenPOQQD4YYZqGRw63y_AYJNYp956COxErA8fd7UFk/s1600/DSCN4795.JPG"><span style="color: black;"></span><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719203478507809682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAF4jnlR5y0GJIDNm-LSJRJLda_3RMqs1ot-hydtXVEPn1S7DgIDWXqkHF6ohwv8WSmB7qF6wTyIaNoONsbNfParEJ7fLrr20TSyhyphenhyphenPOQQD4YYZqGRw63y_AYJNYp956COxErA8fd7UFk/s400/DSCN4795.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a>We wanted to spend a day celebrating L - aka Big Sister. I really think she had a good time, and I hope it's something she'll remember (at least when she sees the pictures). <br />
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We started out with one of my Doctor appointments. L hasn't really gotten to go into the room with me and meet my doctor. So, I wanted them to meet... but also since she's so <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">fascinated</span> with playing "doctor" with her bear/dolls, I thought she would enjoy seeing the doctor care for me. I was right... L loved watching them take my blood pressure, use their <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">stethoscope</span>, and listen to the heartbeat. Which L will tell you says "beep-beep, beep-beep." </div>
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We then went to Build A Bear Workshop, and let her build a bear for her baby sister. She wasn't too sure about putting the stuffing in the bear, but she loved picking out the clothes. So many choices. We also let her pick out an outfit for her bear. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719200893122174514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfJ0c2MfRY8h09q2AnzU2EJuG4XA9NSxSnBAOjJ7yteStFfjpPGikonTzl3ku51RV7z9Oydt3dtPcIIKQsy4xFQV1hDBvqQWXoUW6lM_Hr-8mra-nU3i7GkDQX8tSMT5Sl1hBQLEcJfY/s400/DSCN4762.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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We then let her pick out & buy an outfit for her baby sister. (not at Build a Bear)</div>
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Downtown <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">OKC</span></span>, is a beautiful <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">botanical</span> garden & park. <a href="http://www.myriadgardens.com/index.html">http://www.myriadgardens.com/index.html</a> Even though everything isn't green & in bloom, it's still beautiful. The weather was perfect and we spent time there having a picnic, playing in the "children's garden," and going inside what they call they Crystal Bridge. L was pretty taken with the butterflies inside, and we enjoyed looking at all the variety of plants. This first picture is of L trying to catch a butterfly. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719202194147196226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACayOZFyJEjuCzT7V80zU3z0yREDi1HbpLgIrUFGtxOAoZkwwr4-tIBLvH7IrTaPNG2_UhfdDJRu20dGxobGTap1I6UsvhtGOuknm2x70Jk_-ox9WrCR4pC5AOuMg1b9yNDk1eHguiy8/s400/DSCN4775.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719201348214512194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXEcAqp_R_Djao3ODqT7uqhuNQMh-1CUhiL8JfuDmKepbSRU5em_oKzWmXTUql51GnrRKEiS-6En93EqkJcxHkG0T42w60Fko5tgJnG9SsQymO4sKbnttDsotsLYewahLIyomFUj6b1E/s400/DSCN4773.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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After running a few "city errands" we went to POPS Soda Ranch. Located on Route 66, this place boasts of 500+ different flavors of Pop. <a href="http://route66.com/51.0.html">http://route66.com/51.0.html</a> It was a great finish to a Big Sister Day. As fun as it was to think about, D and I are creatures of habit and ended up just ordering Dublin Dr. Pepper. And as much as I tried to convince L to pick out something Orange, or Pink, or Purple, or Green... her own Soda, for the first time ever...all she wanted was milk. The food was great, and playing outside was lots of fun too. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719202710553365170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAd660lelswto1-0qXvwv4UhGfMKn6YlFq-oX2pPXBLuTaNZGnD3xVCyG3IFt-Na5ZlMagLvaaBPCEwb-5FnYF9lcGcpZkNdTn_je184qApPbQw4yMQ2s8wLIpuL3y2_jak0B6Omb2Cs/s400/DSCN4789.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719203090316332018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1AcxyuypdrBFasdok0B8kDHusCa_J58uGNbLwZeCqJ-j6CWDhj5JLl8RSUHVVrckXKNtt-BEpdG7821A62k_dh7Y6gd7j3hQZPcQee6mdSuNUI6W4SHsej2b13vY8HFu7qqT2aIB8Pw/s400/DSCN4791.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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The Pop Bottle on Route 66, is of course... 66 ft tall. It's lit up at night, but we didn't get to see it. </div>
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If I haven't said it already, L is going to be a great Big Sister. She has the sweetest heart for babies. I can hardly keep her out of Baby Naomi & Baby Finn's face when we visit with them. She is constantly changing diapers, singing, feeding, rocking, and putting her bear/dolls night-night. Today she was quiet, so I went to find her and she was sitting in her room with my old cabbage patch doll. I said, "L what are you doing?" and she told me... "She was crying, so I'm singing to her." </div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719206040154152642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcwupQ9hzIVxGExuPo_nDlEIrlQk_C_WR-qNQnTSZa7pCUGIlF_vj9XwGPrmZ9_A7Ss6NcR3cSXwZJRuTlNt-KyN6qd3BtXHMEQUwK24Bq9qaNwgTyuBDRJhsPjU8id_S-AdeL9XAX3g/s400/DSCN4764.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-8164233875582498722012-03-12T13:49:00.006-07:002012-06-05T07:45:39.552-07:003 + 1 = 4<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2VdheK074YRC4DsJdbLqth9BTTEVEjY8YuUERxwadYNrlMckU_mQ6nGeteOTnDJsDaQEjJjkyibC21VkEgwrnMKymGkPCgIOl2oaxwM0tmfS5hwqwugXLPqhHCHS727bghBzWdCfweQ/s1600/IMG_7030.jpg"><strong></strong><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719116253551862322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2VdheK074YRC4DsJdbLqth9BTTEVEjY8YuUERxwadYNrlMckU_mQ6nGeteOTnDJsDaQEjJjkyibC21VkEgwrnMKymGkPCgIOl2oaxwM0tmfS5hwqwugXLPqhHCHS727bghBzWdCfweQ/s400/IMG_7030.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a>When I was pregnant with L I had no desire to have pregnancy pictures taken. I didn't see the value in it. However, my friend offered to take them for us (for free)... and it turned out to be really fun and a great way to capture that very special time in our family. </div>
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Since we moved, I wasn't sure if it would be an option that I could afford this time around. After asking for local suggestions, and looking at prices.. I was ready to set the timer on our camera and do the best we could with what we had. Thankfully, D has made a connection at school/work with a guy whose wife takes pictures. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Blayr</span> doesn't take pregnancy pictures..... YET. </div>
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I was her guinea pig. And I think we both walked away very pleased with the results of her first attempt to capture the baby bump... and a few of the family. Enjoy!!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719177616574764946" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9UyNq0PiSXJbrDHjL6r9Xzaq6_9UXLA-j4KxqwRPIiAcN2tjzltL5aSgUsXgerYDyqPR_klpkPdQd_arh6_qbx-VhnCEL4CZ89eyQizp2sGBiuxERL3Kau6IWQ1lLViA3W1psJLkgnA/s400/DerekAngie+Pose.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719189862304759874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7IpTOegnWMCNQUkavp7DQz8qf6gt7bkxRfZKp1Aa-oZtXTLvOTajqc7ou0nCS83wimn74RYZq2D5MAErOLTZRst6okE63AHR6dI0dYe_SsfX9ZAogE-DSUBg9GQoQ5HRn1NZODjgyJY4/s400/IMG_7157.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br />
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-75633318465648983792012-02-27T19:19:00.005-08:002012-06-05T07:46:46.334-07:00It's beginning to look a lot like BABY!!<div>
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We're 4 weeks out from our due date. My mommy gut tells me that she's coming early, but maybe it's the lack of sleep. Now that company is gone, and some of our planned busyness is over we've started to kick it in high gear. Here are a few things we've done in past 2 weeks.</div>
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Sort and wash all of L's baby clothes, and the new stuff we've received. L's been a big help... helping me sort stuff with stains, taking the tags off the new clothes, and hanging the clothes on the line for the sun to bleach out the milk stains. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714023043477432466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6pWSRqlZ6jG-BdmpzPV9OaBT3S_anCD2CbOhXSG6FCRZCu9W90OL6fZQRRBZwjhw8ORxsi3-xLIy3Tz_vy5qZ0K5w9wvTHogj8cpswNpSYEhKvxzqI-fFbC28JLBGEtwOYLRMlZxkOg/s400/sortingbabyclothes.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714022852915997506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIu0Y60uQIGhueg9NU9_GAfCTtT3RHUAdzdTFpXy25bFfiJ5cmHZVHvk-QoL2Z6S2f2vD91qpZPd9aAnCkUBb7Pfa4iBaZQ9cgkTZ_2aRjzRHaesP2TCT4_AF9rvlceISGUFTqBUtiP8/s400/clothesontheline.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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D and L went on a special shopping trip to pick out something "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">OSU</span>" for our newest "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">OSU</span> Cowgirl." We all know, she'll be an Aggie... but when in Rome....<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714026108311386594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjL8HPQQgdNV4NKVTaVDvoHSNHLfQA6Wf0LIZJbnqNbvlcrJlJ1kFnbXhkn7c4JvQrK9IFcxlDh9msmAvTlZo4Adrk6X6zk7H6l3oyYB_oFxx2QxRl3SErWXkyxYyFqHvYbzr_TfkRZXk/s400/OSU.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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We also enjoyed a special morning taking maternity pictures this past weekend. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Blayr</span> was awesome working with us, and being very patient with L. I haven't gotten but two back. Kinda a sneak peek.... Unfortunately the files are so big, my computer is getting a headache. I'm too tired to work on it tonight... maybe tomorrow. </div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-1204201961438710632012-02-27T19:09:00.005-08:002012-06-05T07:47:47.541-07:00Our BIG snow!!<div>
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Just as our family left, the storm of the year rolled in. We got about 3 inches of snow that lasted a whole day. D stayed home from school so we could really play in it (I wouldn't be much fun for L at this stage in the game). The best part was getting to go sledding down the hill down the road. All three of us took our turns going down, and have video of it. It was hilarious. I don't recommend being 8 months pregnant and going down such a big hill.... but you weren't going to stop this Texas girl from trying out something she's never gotten to do before. </div>
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I've always loved how magical snow is...even at my age. It's no different for L, and it just makes our hearts smile to see her so excited about something. </div>
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Enough of my rambling, here's some pictures: </div>
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Our house & the untouched snow in the front yard. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714019669262750354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZBdHpi_mPwHahHHm-7J4B0MsEvwgsxvJJs0cZgokFXN8tBGA7n_9wD-SEkZn5g4dwf0Wktj7SF2geamcP9V5Ll06umkJsx_t-5jscVIcZOANmFzgKVCNRBnm3z6jwCFLjB2UzKOuilw/s400/house+snow.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" />The "untouched" part didn't last long!</div>
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My Snow Angel.</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714020418040829106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7D0wyCykLJEtO91yOUi1qns1o6b_pbrotoc_0IDkqmwiQLdHAEu3RCXAmS9eIUR9Sf24JtkAs69u5fZJeDOeUob9jtJS8RjHA_39BuCTaCx9Yj5gr2leAFtYYVVq_zx5F2GiJUfRA98/s400/Lainey+Snow.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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Pulling her sled (we bought these when we would sled down the desert <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">sandhills</span> in west Texas!)</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714020784293960914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXW10Wsu6Y6F8jRRG81btbm9Xu2PONZT4WwNcg6SdNkGjebWcl8PP6fKZmBJDSuTpoi9ADqWempvi1jEVMe4qNZOwm-t9ZYAOmidZJSbPRjOVoPnQGrwMXNqL98is1fxiQOOzlinzuqoc/s400/snow%2526sled.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-77863051359289599612012-02-27T18:15:00.009-08:002012-06-05T07:49:46.375-07:00Very Special Visitors<div>
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We were treated to two great weekends of family visiting us from Texas. Our first visitors were Grandma and Papa James. Unfortunately the weather was cold and wet, but we still had a good time showing them around our new town. They were awesome grandparents and babysat L for several hours so D and I could get away to the city for a while. They took L to the children's museum, and went shopping. That evening we went out on the town to <a href="http://www.eskimojoes.com/">Eskimo Joe's for</a> dinner and desert at <a href="http://orangeleafyogurt.com/">Orange Leaf</a>. It was a really fun weekend! <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714011280207063026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7KS3r6lU35Con2c2p7a80ZzRMxRzVPHRrAwxc-fqO_crlCPmMR_DWMXoXKJr9Bbkd97rNwUcGC5BDZN21WUKttT-ROlE4I4lCGHXDvYHnaomF5qFc9VFLq8xvd40tpyEX4WdcljNF4g/s400/orange+leaf.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" />Thanks for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">coming</span> to see us! We miss you already!</div>
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The following weekend we had the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Scasta</span> family come visit. Mark, Courtney and Bella arrived on Thursday night. It was a real treat to have them all to ourselves & watch the girls play. L was just so excited to have Bella come to her house, play with her toys, and take a bath with her. If you can think through our transitions... it's been a very long time since we've been in a place where Bella could come play at L's house. About 14 months to be exact.</div>
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And this would be a picture, capturing L's love for Bella. That's what we call a Redneck Hug er, headlock. Shoot! Call it what you want, them there girls love each other!!!</div>
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.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714014907087412610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQuHSzpWmEVXJIKsaQcOK5si7NBcGoF6ef_K4ZwAipcxsge_Z-ZnTUFQbDLgeiyPQ_LAz9W5OodN0HDuaORT6w-V4e17uFBjSyEb9nGtZCZXZv9Juc4WJUlQ-EXgISGkIG7WwQQS_rGHo/s400/redneck+girls.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 266px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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Becky and Ronny came up on Friday evening. We were glad to have room for everyone (barely) at our house all at the same time. It was cold then too, but at least it wasn't raining! We enjoyed some Thai food while they were here, celebrated a new baby (who's having a baby?), and the girls got to go out for a chick flick. It was a blast! Thanks for coming to see us. It was a sweet time, and a great memory!!</div>
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Baby Shower:<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714015529235463602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhG5FYSQStbAVnbgN112AhOp0Ie1F71H9ILk3tLX5WDVcZnzlTEcSEiWZoko4tw-AmCqTFjyBV3oPfD9-SKzI3Hl-1FIIvHQzzb15iFL-KOFQgE1xHRjOASegHgM5nN1pLdrTkHZ_CEJQ/s400/gifts.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 266px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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Some of my hostesses: Sarah, Courtney, (me), <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Rhondalyn</span><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714015960714763538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLWo1tpduGFd1xDfQdZB-GpITFsIGfBPemUCWPTxa2_-Ma7_QzXpzDC59ZUgpM4OqvcYTkbly5v5hoM7gvqJltBcgkY8yVgZHtjAyHruriV2E6HDXeZrZe2NtGJolIQHe9yFLS8EQJtA/s400/hosts.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 266px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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What L did under Papa's supervision while all the women were at the movies: <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714017761022766546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6kNr3qFrKY6G_Vb94Wl3-OIwyJwIvrLUJduvZjjq1uXGjnZoPvicPMmweHv7CwhKbP2sFkov7luj8MOvKNp2SjtlngTV4cBvsKXYJOtunb6GZH-nsk3OMhpRPu6vV8XvdcPLzLYVBLlA/s400/papa.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-53053661292204061702012-02-13T15:14:00.000-08:002012-06-05T07:51:51.118-07:00Daddy Daughter Dates<div>
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D is an awesome dad. We all know that. One particular way that he is super helpful to me is to be completely available to watch L if I have a TShirt job to do. In the fall he would load us girls up in the truck very very early, pull the TShirt trailer to our location (usually 2 hrs away), help me set up our display/trailer, and then take L out for a 12 hour "Daddy Daughter Date."</div>
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They would go explore the town that we were in, and find things to do. She'd nap in the truck while D did homework, and they'd go out to eat one meal of the day. Near the end of the night, they'd show back up at my work site and watch the Finals Show, then help me break down my display and pack up my trailer. It was a long day for all of us, but could not have been done without D's help with L. </div>
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We make a big deal about Daddy Daughter Dates so that the focus is turned to L and not Mommy being gone. </div>
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Recently, I had a short job in town. Here are a few pictures of what they did while I worked at our high school for a few hours. </div>
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We have an awesome (small) Children's Museum call the WONDERtorium, which we have an annual pass for... so this a cheap way to entertain L while still spending some quality one on one time with her. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708768533899482258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LBiONXEbTOpBz2VH64ZVCNsTaJo3kAFU0MK1j7u7RgFraFAGGuUeLeYcB6ODr4V8zhza0jGB_rkzWzWwuHKDD1lCFbnWjGrRxzUCbU5eMDX9WkeahkfLbJGWBQjSYT_e0llWJVT71-E/s400/Doctor.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708768143580668274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0EapEW7PC2fk_8rLmVL5_S0AL3CH6vpougjqQ5UMxKs7yVkoaz6ejMwSQUCj9klq_umDsKsUyVtLnraBfJlPPr-xAiFBlF_Fw1K94RvPvLSOzijH7O4Tz86Tr2UDAonhgGOPDWwBhUo/s400/Big+Sister.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708768347051843426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbtvwKPeEzw5KehbAFOaAkXFGCIonX6vGLvOj2ba-XY6-3wQBBwndVU-1JONiIhrQftyKntZmhXrDkzqbr1bjS_BbYuJlD-SMAsirk3zSJaNcC0HXvSss8lCfcx2iY6AcnlTkfFRnWSM/s400/Market.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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And this particular day, they decided to take a few quarters and Dustie to go shopping. L gets to pick out "special cookie treats" for Dustie and see all the other animals at Petco. She LOVES doing this with D. And of course, so does Dustie. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708766617764215874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlGMQ8ZEG-b5a5gm0ZWzeOgcNVcvjkAKChm-qisa51Qi-3Oly9ADHHHHbeK7WmWy28SR9zfQ9g6rVzXTZ7prL1Hx7YCi5U6kOwzBMC2ZyIKm04g2GMB2KiFYveMviwRTiBwBspnHfOOk/s400/Dustie+Lainey.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-48628460601805996602012-01-26T18:16:00.000-08:002012-06-05T07:53:53.594-07:00Homemade Puzzles<div>
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Today we spent the day at the Richardson's house. We spend a lot of time with them, as you can tell. L and Anna are as different as night and day but really enjoy playing together. Lainey talks about Ms <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Rhondalyn</span>, Mr Nathan, Anna and Baby Naomi <strong>all the time</strong>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Rhondalyn</span> and I quickly found a very easy friendship in each other sharing common interests, hobbies, and beliefs. We are very patient with our children together as they learn to share, be kind, and interact WELL with other children. It's a work in progress, but we've stopped apologizing for our children's (sometimes bad) behavior and have decided to team up and learn how to work through this together. God is so good to provide such wonderful friends for L and I (and D, because we like Nathan too!!). </div>
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So today at the Richardson's we spent time outside, read books, played with baby dolls, had lunch together, and made puzzles. It was a very fun day for all of us. Here are our puzzles. I forgot my camera, so I ended up taking pictures of it once we got home. </div>
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Supplies: Picture, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Popsicle</span> sticks, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">mod</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">podge</span>, paint brush for the MP, marker, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">x-acto</span> knife.</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702137486254817298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZqalp5-PbzcvkE4abMYHp-OgBY6gV4z0EJPntOYc5fvn_-J7tt4qlDxkeVc0cKzV8mg0bYjx8BRH1thWw3gAENjq_oUXKgdCvjZr8LmH-bXw0g6A5EFPRUCjelMwU9FmRSiOVibAQS_c/s400/Supplies.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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Cut out a picture or use a photo. Line up the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Popsicle</span> sticks and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">mod</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">podge</span> the picture to the sticks. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702138060093976290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yrfdc_36jHpUdqWsL_qx6dyen4piFszEhgA_-F5r-tjq6Bat9qZY9BMWUG2lyi4TkwZC-NKO9YjF1tI9XUNcWL4EaXU049CawFTYsmAOagrQUMy1rynJ8aF1QPwY59EZOOpJtX4nNgY/s400/put+together.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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We took a marker add a few extra learning aspects to their puzzles (ABC's, 123's). After it dries, take the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">x-acto</span> knife and slice the sticks apart. </div>
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Ta-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Da</span>!!! You got a puzzle. These can be made 100 different ways. They're cheap to make, easy to carry, and great for taking to restaurants or other places to entertain kids. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702137706585177154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLyVjXDeBg2lHoGfJL8zDCITTc1M4dql2SSg8FnEBTQhkZ5qRu1OCtAU8GnwUDsQUBNrmqr7p6QOw4k9CexWDrElwx1TMOgI-nFPl_SK_M57Qns9v_585vlVYIxqcSR5hBLwHsfkFwbDc/s400/puzzle.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></div>
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</div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-53067722648306536152012-01-25T18:25:00.000-08:002012-01-25T18:45:52.538-08:00Custom<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQmU3IYOZ7MQGJUDdVFEMXFM6xPj1e7U1ZV3v_oQ3Cbwo5XKRGXue_Mk4-o5y2IUmu6QhHTNJ9OA2B28PlyaJQ4oCB2T-AYw4OGCISDgSxdBHXoXZ3se13PvGhRdqyD76ox55mIpvLf0/s1600/Cabinet.JPG"></a><div>I use to make fun of Derek because every time we passed a truck with a "custom made" bumper or headache rack he'd have to point it out. He always said the same thing... "Now that's CUSTOM." But it was said with a little Texas drawl.. kinda like "C-U-S tom." As if I couldn't tell that it was custom, or that I was even interested. </div><div> </div><div>Not to say I can't appreciate CUSTOM made items. I love custom crafts, quilts, and home decor. I love custom furniture, especially when it's super functional and it's in my house. So, let me introduce our C-U-S tom kitchen cart. Made with LOVE by Derek. <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701764276795707650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mnMezJsKwduqltfpUkTRNN4aK4q0skohcD0YUW0i8S7-7eZQlF3qTXp5hVF7Ti-r_hmpvQ_TYFTlKFFZrjOHjYbs-P3iOY5fELgvhAD30_ESuDXbx-FnjUodWKgH-ZeaXK04uYhPtjQ/s400/Front+of+cart.JPG" /></div><div> <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 300px; height: 400px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701764475908574850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTd22TyogDBPPIG91yKpcvJVoxqebkF96oya1gxonsOoe0g98W12Hr0ikWjQ3l2hJgq2MF9yJEEz8lujn6kGCWC-sAnKMea3e0m7-XvDJraW0vloNTAffzcElKYmxj5RTN8DlV-J648o/s400/back+of+cart.JPG" />Our kitchen has what I would call 4 "normal" sized cabinets, and 1 kitchen drawer. You can see my entire kitchen storage in the picture above, except for one cabinet above the dishwasher. The people before us must have not owned a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">crock pot</span>, a mixer, big pots or strainers, a rolling pin, or serving platters. So, I enlisted my husband to make a solution to a real problem in this cook's life. </div><div> </div><div>Without a pattern, and only a verbal description of what I imagined... he made exactly what I wanted and it turned out better than I could have imagined. It has two shelves inside, and it's on casters. It's stores all of my big kitchen items, and then some. It is a great transition from our living room to our kitchen, where there use to be just this big, rather <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">awkward</span>, open doorway. It may have taken 6 months to finish, but it was so worth the wait. </div><div> </div><div>Thanks Derek for making all of my C-U-S tom home furnishing dreams come true!!!</div></div></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-76455689986428174752012-01-25T18:07:00.000-08:002012-01-25T18:24:15.125-08:00$1 worth of entertainment<div><div><div><div>The weather was nice, and we wanted to do something different. So we rode the Pistol Pete bus, just because we can. Just because Lainey had never been on the bus, and it was something fun to do on a pretty day. <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701757757217622914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKO7wHc9nS3G10WoTAqZkoxNPHf6ktnTuH8b8Hcfa1zcDeV2GaMT7TwVRa6Capjq34qAvziCa0CxNKj2zQIZiuFbqx_xIk3UK02eF-Kfyw5s2ZCDp4uF3iSaEnVxQb98exrGrEleiooTE/s320/OSU+bus.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>We got to see a bus driver, railroad tracks, stop lights, bicyclists, geese, Boomer Lake, and even had a seeing eye dog ride with us. It was fun to talk to Lainey and be able to point out things as we rode. <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701757956914318498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JmNya_YAivZ1HgvGzEunM6qEYeVkQmUYJqFeExTBMtUTF3PXzN7f-7R6wEupi_TU01eyVcZnmisNEO-8KqZBHKy00SVgtM_3v1ObjOW8BVrogp4sWMM32MTr1nlKTjSAVGMRVQnUWYM/s320/to+OSU.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div>When we got off the bus, we went to see Dad in his office. We took him hot brownies that we made before lunch. <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701758338102398226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8w5WjkJBoj1Owpo1n2QIL-LydeVaPd3ycPtEThC0HOl96qKcuVXgjsiFsDb6JDbL8gXILLM7mjqce9fYVsqRd3uqHBAYfeGG2nRue5wFv5gTO8DqZJ4Xc5m9j7b42z4qpAUOqKEmtTI/s320/Dad%2527s+office.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Then we walked all over campus with Dad and went into some of the buildings we'd never walked in. </div><div> </div><div>Look who rode the bus home with us. Dad!!<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701758908350934146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTDAJ_QWWsp2IUk1iE_Qu2aTx7LXnZrG6fFqXpFxA0wwT4Fdyxi_2eY-Upjhw4BitHOYoO7dmPFls75qnkQ1I561Cki21hXpKFEaZOXN3LZSfG14UkdwBlyR5lvuOFRi_2D1QOoIqrsE/s320/going+home.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div>It cost us $1 round trip, and we spent 4 hours out on the town. Lainey was just beside herself with excitement today. Riding the bus, getting to see Dad at work, and walking around campus with all the big kids. We even saw our friend Allie in the bookstore! </div><div> </div><div>Who said $1 can't buy you anything these days?</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421485848085225079.post-24556052327755049052012-01-21T06:41:00.000-08:002012-01-25T18:07:19.443-08:00The Things We Do Every Week<div><div><div><div><div>... I must still be in the Honeymoon Phase of staying at home. Chores don't bother me. Maybe I feel like it's my job, and my contribution to the family and it's just simply something that has to be done. I've found that most chores can be done in less than 20 minutes, and that's hardly a big enough chunk of time to complain about. Dishes, Clothes, Floors, Dusting, etc. Over and Over and Over. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>What I am trying to do is get on more of a routine schedule of doing chores. It has been working pretty well for us for the past several weeks. It just means, don't come to my house on Wednesday and expect a spotless bathroom... because those don't get cleaned until Thursday. I was finding that I was either doing chores and not finishing them completely, or that when I had spare time I just couldn't pin point what needed to be done TODAY. I'm a list maker, so having a list/schedule has really helped me take the decision making out of chores. It's just a matter of getting it done. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>What's wonderful about Lainey (at this age) is she wants to be Mommy's helper, and doesn't complain about it. I didn't even ask her to help me, she just started asking me to help. I can always find an age appropriate way for her to work along side me. Here are a few pictures of how she helps me around the house....</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>We do laundry and grocery shopping on Mondays. Strangely enough, our Mondays have been consistently sunny days and we're able to use the clothes line that Derek made for me. Lainey loads the washer for me, and helps me sort through the wet clothes to put on the line, and in the dryer. </div><div> </div><div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700097892097831298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VtI_8G1aMhT1zI64k6N_8UjviZkjhuDFTgNJXfSZkrpUwYQrKdDUYZ7Uu6_kASvF1vME8dXK4sTGUwhDAhJRTwUcMWT4djHRpxBg12P0GDsawP1HGqm8-0jvuwGtNThz4bF4Dt5U0fo/s320/Wash.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div>We clean bathrooms on Thursday. Lainey helps wipe down the cabinet, wash her potty seat and step stool, wipe off the counter top, and scrub the toilet. She also helps sweep with her own broom. </div><div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700099102454001570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIN8AlG2X8yoNqDynvPaVEPAsCptvdCHZRkjMwRg9PZew1psA77WWhd6Nf0Xp2g31XnNmkjFWScalKpA28uwGzPMhpYjHimaXqmu2L35Op68f7V3XcR-s31iFGgjrktNf2PWU8gdAlPoI/s320/Cabinet.JPG" /></div><div> <img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700102611036923330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI73uRA2l_5Q_szyOjanpm-eT4LuhY9wMqVKAjTrXSvuuK7gm9qXhR1XlqmsCcEr5hxn4pd4VOiCXZx-LYOJepQGlyov9Ze7zg-V7TM_bqYFD797URPigvM0bf2V_SqMLRXNU6_MQ9AuM/s320/Toilet.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701756319547202418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdDgirUOYxdJ3hm3jj1jNNPLk2IizgcKXsK6wp0Vl4YwG_DHFhbafdHOd2vrwBp-PxsXf9JAklRc2gMM8qBks2Mp5TsneOMea5xOf2slbeuDBqf6M6TOVxDkBeo2RdP__zPXHMecIutc/s320/window+washing.JPG" />Other highlights around our house... we had a play date at Nikki's house on Wednesday. The Muellers are a new family at our church and have a son Lainey's age, and a little boy that's about a year old. Rhondalyn and her girls came too. Thursday I had several Doctor appointments in OKC. Good reports all around!! Lainey had a Daddy-Daughter Date with dad for lunch, and then spent the rest of the afternoon at Miss Rhondalyn's house, while he went to class. Last night we went on a Desert Date to get ice cream from Orange Leaf. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div></div></div>ascastahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04398213568963878463noreply@blogger.com0