tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76293657816200755212024-03-13T19:01:40.584-07:00On My Side of the RoomFor the crafter at heart!Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.comBlogger261125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-41969954444228842882015-08-31T06:45:00.000-07:002015-08-31T06:57:46.725-07:00Handmade is Better September Sales List <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I
started my handmade business I had no idea what I was doing. I actually
didn't really think it was a business at first, mostly it was just a
hobby that paid for itself. Then things just sort of snowballed from
there. Ok, not exactly snowballed but after a TON of work and late
nights it started to pay off and turn into a real business. </div>
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Because
of this, along with my love of making things I have always loved to help
people as they started their business because honestly, I wish I had
had someone when I first started! So because of this I started @handmadeisbetter on Instagram where I feature some of my favorite makers. </div>
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This
is a link list for all those wonderful handmade shops out there to
share some of the sales they have going on. It's a win win! Advertising
for small business owners and great deals on wonderful items.</div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-17168973046144060402015-07-08T23:46:00.003-07:002015-07-09T01:04:50.672-07:00Lego Party Food<br />
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Here is the food! Well most of it at least. For food for kid parties I try to keep it as simple as possible and kid friendly because well, this was for 4 and 5 year olds. I also do let my kids pick the food for the most part and they usually pick crowd pleasers. <br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">On the menu was:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Hot Dogs (my sons favorite)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Watermelon</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Chips</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Carrots and ranch (cause we're healthy like that)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Apple juice</span><br />
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<b>Disclaimer</b>. The lighting in this room was weird. It has hardly any natural light and is small so it can be hard to take pictures sometimes. Also I was in a huge hurry cause kids were coming!!!<br />
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So just wanted to say how much I love this banner I got off etsy! The person who did it no longer has a shop up but you can find a lot <a href="https://www.etsy.com/search?q=lego%20banner">here</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCzG4T7vo5A/VW6KCRpBhGI/AAAAAAAAWWE/MMAr_LbYL6E/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B45b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCzG4T7vo5A/VW6KCRpBhGI/AAAAAAAAWWE/MMAr_LbYL6E/s640/Lego%2BParty%2B45b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
For drinks I had juice boxes but I also did some lemonade because I knew kids would probably want more to drink. Also it was for our family party the next day with mostly adults who might want more than a juice box. (I no longer have this stand but <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Cscript%20type=%22text/javascript%22%20src=%22http://wms-na.amazon-adsystem.com/20070822/US/js/link-enhancer-common.js?tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=HDONA7ERWRQ5KNSJ%22%3E%20%3C/script%3E%20%3Cnoscript%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3Cimg%20src=%22http://wms-na.amazon-adsystem.com/20070822/US/img/noscript.gif?tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=HDONA7ERWRQ5KNSJ%22%20alt=%22%22%20/%3E%20%3C/noscript%3E">this one </a>is the one I want to replace it with, LOVE drink stands!)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uuplm5_oPj4/VW6GgEMhBYI/AAAAAAAAWU0/_9HEIQ7dPFE/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B25b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uuplm5_oPj4/VW6GgEMhBYI/AAAAAAAAWU0/_9HEIQ7dPFE/s400/Lego%2BParty%2B25b.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5cs3LhWgfj4/VW6G3JjVamI/AAAAAAAAWVE/yGltN3nWtIs/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B11b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5cs3LhWgfj4/VW6G3JjVamI/AAAAAAAAWVE/yGltN3nWtIs/s400/Lego%2BParty%2B11b.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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Love these Lego bottle faces. I used my Sillhouette to create all the vinyl for the faces on the bottles, the lego guy and other decorations. Once I did a couple faces it was easy to adjust sizes and cut different colors. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Cscript%20type=%22text/javascript%22%20src=%22http://wms-na.amazon-adsystem.com/20070822/US/js/link-enhancer-common.js?tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=KTE2RM45U4WQW54I%22%3E%20%3C/script%3E%20%3Cnoscript%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3Cimg%20src=%22http://wms-na.amazon-adsystem.com/20070822/US/img/noscript.gif?tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=KTE2RM45U4WQW54I%22%20alt=%22%22%20/%3E%20%3C/noscript%3E"></a> I got my Silhouette RIGHT before they came out with the newer one, I love it and it's a great creative tool.<br />
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The name cards and other <b>printables </b>came from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/crackersart">Crackers Art</a>, though it seems that they don't have any Lego party listed right now, but you can ask! You can find customizable lego party printables <a href="https://www.etsy.com/search?q=lego%20party%20printable">here</a>. <br />
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I have used these bottles for several parties, they are from Starbucks Frappuccinos. and the labels have just been taken off using goo gone and some magic eraser. I actually don't like frappuccinos (not a coffee drinker!) but my sister loves them so I had her save hers. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1pnPBr9Jso/VW6HAiJnDeI/AAAAAAAAWVM/FtP09cZ79TA/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B29b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1pnPBr9Jso/VW6HAiJnDeI/AAAAAAAAWVM/FtP09cZ79TA/s400/Lego%2BParty%2B29b.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--W7Gh_3pVDQ/VW6IU4uir5I/AAAAAAAAWVg/D4VepyFTuKw/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B26b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--W7Gh_3pVDQ/VW6IU4uir5I/AAAAAAAAWVg/D4VepyFTuKw/s400/Lego%2BParty%2B26b.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
I did a trade from my etsy shop for these juice box covers and it looks like she no longer makes them. Bummer! They came flat and all I needed to do was put them on my own juice boxes. I used Lego stickers from a sticker book my boys got at Christmas to attach the straw. Kids loved that they got to pick their own Lego minifigure guy. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YA8lm5bTbpo/VQaDE9XsuYI/AAAAAAAAVGA/WA7h00R5M0k/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YA8lm5bTbpo/VQaDE9XsuYI/AAAAAAAAVGA/WA7h00R5M0k/s640/Lego%2BParty%2B27.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUPTE-ypFYk/VW6GTnMULcI/AAAAAAAAWUs/9lx5z6xxcxE/s1600/Collage%2Bdrinks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="594" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUPTE-ypFYk/VW6GTnMULcI/AAAAAAAAWUs/9lx5z6xxcxE/s640/Collage%2Bdrinks.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Cupcake toppers were also a trade (I love trading stuff!) but again no longer making them. I made the cupcakes using a mix made fancy (see <a href="http://onmysideoftheroom.blogspot.com/2010/06/ahhhhhmazing-cupcakes.html">here</a>) and butter cream frosting. I've got cupcakes down so they don't take long and aren't too tricky to make. <br />
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Some people have asked about this cupcake stand which I got from The Smart Baker right after they were on Shark Tank. It is genius. I can do whatever tiers I want. For this one I went full size but sometimes I'll do the top two or three tiers. All of it can be taken apart and washed. It is so versatile! This time I added washi tape around the edges just to add some color. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJ_mWAETPxA/VW6JYmKc6rI/AAAAAAAAWV4/3Wa4n-4I25Y/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B44b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJ_mWAETPxA/VW6JYmKc6rI/AAAAAAAAWV4/3Wa4n-4I25Y/s640/Lego%2BParty%2B44b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
On the years we do big friend parties I always do cupcakes because they are super easy and fast. Weather you make them or buy them they are easy and good to go. I use cupcake tips which I've had for years and use them all the time. They really make you look like a pro. Big party years I spend my time doing decorations and games rather than a cake.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34M0zOX97TU/VW6IqJeuthI/AAAAAAAAWVw/jO7Kfb9_bI8/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B32b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34M0zOX97TU/VW6IqJeuthI/AAAAAAAAWVw/jO7Kfb9_bI8/s640/Lego%2BParty%2B32b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Watermelon! This was perfect in cups that the kids could just grab. Definitely a favorite.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wSt7jkhabl8/VQaDGW3ytrI/AAAAAAAAVGU/NATguN8v0N8/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wSt7jkhabl8/VQaDGW3ytrI/AAAAAAAAVGU/NATguN8v0N8/s640/Lego%2BParty%2B31.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6fp7eX42gk4/VW6Kc3CHqhI/AAAAAAAAWWM/WTpt1DhXb0E/s1600/Collage%2Bhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="594" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6fp7eX42gk4/VW6Kc3CHqhI/AAAAAAAAWWM/WTpt1DhXb0E/s640/Collage%2Bhead.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And my sweet birthday boy. His shirt was handmade by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/93031415/boys-locking-blocks-t-shirt?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=lego%20shirt&ref=sr_gallery_26">Room to Romp</a>. He loved that shirt SO much and wore it all the time. <br />
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Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-80196770313807675132015-07-08T00:59:00.002-07:002015-07-08T15:27:24.898-07:00Handmade is Better July Sales Link List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I
started my handmade business I had no idea what I was doing. I actually
didn't really think it was a business at first, mostly it was just a
hobby that paid for itself. Then things just sort of snowballed from
there. Ok, not exactly snowballed but after a TON of work and late
nights it started to pay off and turn into a real business. </div>
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Because
of this, along with my love of making things I have always loved to help
people as they started their business because honestly, I wish I had
had someone when I first started! </div>
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This
is a link list for all those wonderful handmade shops out there to
share some of the sales they have going on. It's a win win! Advertising
for small business owners and great deals on wonderful items.</div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-24025699251656206292015-06-24T02:48:00.000-07:002015-06-24T16:52:31.764-07:00Palmeter's Recovery Auction On May 5th, 2014 the Palmeter's Family changed forever when a terrible accident threatened the life of mother and wife Laura and her unborn baby. This past year has been a very long difficult road but many miracles have happened. Defying so many odds and surpassing everyone's expectations their sweet baby girl Aria was born without any major complications though she will need to monitored throughout her childhood. <br />
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Laura on the other hand has not been so lucky throughout it all. It has been a year of pain, surgeries and doctors visits which it will continue for a long time. Any financial assistance to help with medical costs will be a huge blessing for this wonderful family. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">How you can help! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Prayers and well wishes are always very much appreciated. </b></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Go to their Go Fund Me account</span>.</b> <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/Palmeter-sRecovery">https://www.gofundme.com/Palmeter-sRecovery </a><br />
where you can read their story, donate, share it with your friends on facebook and other social media sites. Anything helps!<br />
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<b>Participate in our upcoming auction.</b> It will be from July 15th to 19th. You will be able to preview some amazing items that will be up for auction in the album named <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.474122569432300.1073741831.466224680222089&type=3">Palmeter Recovery Auction</a>. New items will be added leading up to the day of the auction. <br />
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<b>Follow my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/onmysideoftheroom">facebook </a>page to get updates on the auction</b>. Don't want to miss it!!!! <br />
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<b>Donate to the auction. </b>Do you have a business, items to donate or service you would like to contribute? Contact me at kendrad.goodrich@gmail.com Items can be local, PDX area please! <br />
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<b>Pin this item on pinterest to spread the word!</b> Float your mouse over the top left corner of this graphic and it will say pin it then you can post it to your Pinterest. Easy peasy. <br />
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Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-62225052963140399512015-06-18T01:06:00.001-07:002015-06-18T13:52:17.325-07:009 Reasons Why Toddlers are Awesome - Things to Remember When You're at the End of your Rope It seems like in one instant my youngest went from infant to full blown toddler, there was no easing into it at all. It has been a few years since I had a toddler in the house and I must admit I forgot a lot of what toddlerhood entails. <br />
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Lately I have been finding myself more and more frustrated with the big messes he makes, how he wants to run off and do his own thing all the time and so much more. It has left me frustrated and feeling so unproductive in life.<br />
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As I was brooding over a very unproductive day where it felt like I had cleaned most of the day yet it somehow was messier at the end, I realized I had to think positively if I was going to survive <b>this</b> toddler. This toddler, who is into way more than his big brothers ever were. This toddler, who has no fear and loves to jump off things terrifying his poor mother. This toddler, who sees his much older brothers doing things and wants to do them too even though he's a lot smaller and much less coordinated.<br />
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So as a survival mechanism I tried thinking positively and began listing in my head why toddlers are awesome, just so I can remember when he isn't acting so awesome. <br />
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<b>1.) They are interested in everything.</b> Yes, this is double sided because they <i><b>are </b></i>interested in everything and want to explore it all which creates TONS of messes. Like everywhere. But being with a toddler can help you appreciate small things, like how amazing it is to watch a garbage truck collect trash or how fun it to just splash around in the sink water. Or how freaking cool it is to go down a slide even after you've gone 500 times. As Sid the Science Kid says they 'want to know everything about everything'. One day many of them will stop all this and think they already know it all. Welcome to the teenage years!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Se-HjA-YUwE/VYHydR7aMiI/AAAAAAAAWhM/I3Xzcn2DcCk/s1600/Collage%2BDaveO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Se-HjA-YUwE/VYHydR7aMiI/AAAAAAAAWhM/I3Xzcn2DcCk/s640/Collage%2BDaveO.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Into every. single. thing. </span></div>
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<b>2.) They can be easy to please. </b>Yes many are picky about what exactly they want and it can be random and irrational but they are not yet demanding an ipad, a car or the latest and greatest in toys and electronics that ALL their friends have because they are happy with a box. Know what I got my little guy for Christmas? Wooden spoons, a ball and some animal cookies. Boom, done. That's it and he was happy as a clam. Want to cheer him up? Put on Sesame Street and give him some crackers. Give him a balloon. Grab his favorite stuffed animal and a favorite blankie.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0WVsvP15Zs/VYHrg0n5veI/AAAAAAAAWgk/fniAFJ_BshA/s1600/unnamed9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0WVsvP15Zs/VYHrg0n5veI/AAAAAAAAWgk/fniAFJ_BshA/s640/unnamed9.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Here his older brother threw down a balloon from the top railing. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">They did this for at least 20 minutes which had him giggling the whole time. </span></div>
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<b>3.) They still need you and want to be around you. </b>You are their whole life for the most part. While this can be hard because they <i>do </i>need and want you all the time, it is relatively short lived. It only lasts a couple years. A couple <b>long </b>years but it goes faster than you think. During this time they still want to snuggle, hold hands and kiss you. <span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064461481=28d375a909a53e18b33.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064461481=28d375a909a53e18b33.2:0.0.0.0.0.0">Some times snuggling up in your neck is their favorite place to be. </span></span> Even with my older boys who are only 6 and almost 8 I've found there comes a time when they just don't need or want your help on some things. The point of being a good mom is to work yourself out a job by teaching them life skills so they can become independent little people but it is kind of sad when they do become independent and don't need/want to hold your hand to cross the street any more or help doing things. <br />
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<b>4.) They think you are the BEST! </b> From mom of almost four Danielle, your kids think <span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064461481=28d375a909a53e18b33.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064461481=28d375a909a53e18b33.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"> "you're the BEST dancer, the FUNNIEST at telling jokes, and see you
as the most BEAUTIFUL girl in the world even when you haven't showered
in a week and you're walking around in your fatty mcfaterson pants that you
wouldn't even let your husband see you in." At this age they think you're the best at everything and totally mean it. </span></span><br />
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<br />
<b>5.) They are on their own time.</b> Ever try walking with a toddler? They are ssssslllllloooooowwww, at least they are whenever you need them to hurry up. But these little people take their time and aren't in a rush because they're so busy living
life and having fun. It is a good lesson for everyone to remember. Time to stop and smell the roses. Or pick up a cool rock. Or take the long way just because it's more interesting. <br />
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<b>6.) You get to see so many firsts.</b> So far I've been able to
see my toddler walk, run, pick his first blueberry, jump on the
trampoline, go in a water fountain for the first time and tons more. During these toddler years they have so many firsts.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCV8H0uqwuw/VYHwQvpQ4EI/AAAAAAAAWhA/ncBnbXcI4Uw/s1600/Davis%2BYogurt%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCV8H0uqwuw/VYHwQvpQ4EI/AAAAAAAAWhA/ncBnbXcI4Uw/s640/Davis%2BYogurt%2B2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">First time eating yogurt by himself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Can you tell? </span></div>
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<b>7.) They can change emotions fast. </b>Again, some good, some bad with this. But when my little guy gets mad normally it will only take a silly face, a favorite toy, throwing him up in the air or a fart noise to cheer him up depending on what it is. Or if its a tantrum moving him to a different place and giving it a few of minutes. A little bit of distraction will often do the trick. His older brother on the other hand, who has a lot less meltdowns, often can brood on whatever it is for hours when he gets upset. I've found as my boys have gotten older there is a lot more emotion to
their problems of feeling lonely, struggling trying to learn
something or getting over jealousy. It takes a lot more work to help them snap out of a bad mood.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxid4TZAMBI/VYHpx2lBc5I/AAAAAAAAWgQ/PfmXy6DU-m0/s1600/Max%2BCollage%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxid4TZAMBI/VYHpx2lBc5I/AAAAAAAAWgQ/PfmXy6DU-m0/s640/Max%2BCollage%2B.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b> 8.) They think you know everything and believe what you say. </b>Because you are their world you are their ultimate authority on just about everything. As their world expands this will not be the case. They might even find that you are not right about everything (gasp!) So enjoy it while it lasts. <br />
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From mom of three Marissa:<i> </i><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>"</i><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><i>One
of my favorite parts of the toddler stage is </i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0" style="font-size: small;"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><i>how they always ask me to kiss their boo-boos and </i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0" style="font-size: small;"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><i>truly believe the kiss makes it better!" </i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<b>9.) They are so dang cute! </b> Chubby fingers on your arms, messy kisses from sweet little lips, big belly laughs, chubby cheeks, sweet smiles. Diaper ruffles peeking out from their back of their pants, little hobbit feet. Saying "I love you." "Thank you", "You're pretty" at random times throughout the day. Who can resist?<br />
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<b>10.) Bonus! They love just about everyone.</b> Seriously. Toddlers don't care about how much you make, how popular you are or if you're wearing the latest fashions. They don't care if your a little weird or if you don't look like a model. They just don't care about that stuff we grown ups and older kids seem to care so much about. For the most part they love everyone and are completely sincere. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">SO </span></div>
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Being a mom of a toddler is hard. Being a mom in general is hard. It's all hard stuff but it does pass eventually. Might as well look to the bright side of things (a BIG note to self on this one) and have fun. They really are just trying to figure out life not mess up your house or make it so you can't get much else done. They just doin' what they do. <br />
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<br />
<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0.0">Advice from mom of three Brooke, "It will pass.
It will be better after naps or in the morning.
The way they are acting now won't be how they are at 20.
Sometimes I have to lock myself in the bathroom, turn on all water faucets and just not hear the whining/crying for a few minutes. It helps you not murder them and renews your spirit so you can keep being positive.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0" style="font-size: small;"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><b>Remember: You are not alone. Call someone and vent - we've all been there. </b></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0" style="font-size: small;"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><b>If they judge you....hang up.</b>" </span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044505347=20d1aa57f013b9f1c41.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044632265=2a6602ce89ff1a12376.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434044683374=221406a43f38fb9a924.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span data-reactid=".5t.$mid=11434064210166=2b813a1f33365bf5502.2:0.0.0.0.0.0"> </span></span> </span></span> </span></span> </span></span> Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-12733182216851318682015-06-09T14:16:00.004-07:002015-06-18T13:53:17.398-07:00The Ultimate Guide to Cheap or Free Summer Fun With Kids in PDX <span style="font-size: small;">When you think about Portland Oregon and kids a few things come to mind pretty quick. OMSI, the Zoo, the Children's Museum....I've been to them all both as a kid and as a parent.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">This summer we are wanting to find things do that are</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Cheap/Free </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Simple </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Fun for 3 boys </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">So....</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">I've been collecting a list of fun things to do with my boys all year and found they were scattered in different places so I thought I'd compile them all in one spot just to save me some trouble later on down the road when I'm stressed and wanting to do something fun. Hope this helps you have a blast this summer with your little people. Please let me know if something is mis-linked, not correct or there is some great place/event I missed. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ic4XIZ21IeE/VXdXmt2NIdI/AAAAAAAAWa8/Vj6jYlK7BIQ/s1600/Summer%2BFun%2Bin%2BPDX%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ic4XIZ21IeE/VXdXmt2NIdI/AAAAAAAAWa8/Vj6jYlK7BIQ/s640/Summer%2BFun%2Bin%2BPDX%2B.jpg" width="404" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Water time! </span></h2>
<h3 class="entry-title" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Portland-Area Water Parks, Fountains, and Features </span></span></b></h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xYzgc5LfyZY/VXYoE0-9KuI/AAAAAAAAWXA/D4QN5E3mVAU/s1600/FountainGuide2015_720x358F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xYzgc5LfyZY/VXYoE0-9KuI/AAAAAAAAWXA/D4QN5E3mVAU/s640/FountainGuide2015_720x358F.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h1 class="entry-title" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">List found <a href="http://www.metro-parent.com/resources/fountains-splash-pads/">here </a></span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></h1>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rm4s-jxzAyw/VXdRhaOHovI/AAAAAAAAWas/JO-ValHqUxE/s1600/80683de39ee95f2c32fb40eb6adb4f28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rm4s-jxzAyw/VXdRhaOHovI/AAAAAAAAWas/JO-ValHqUxE/s640/80683de39ee95f2c32fb40eb6adb4f28.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.outdoorproject.com/blog-news/oregons-25-best-swimming-holes"><span style="font-size: large;"> Oregon's 25 Best Swimming Holes</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.co.washington.or.us/hagglake/">Hagg Lake </a>- </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">has picnic areas, a trail around the lake, Disc golf </span></span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Indoor Pools </span></h2>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489147" target="_blank">Open Swim at Portland Public Pools</a> </b>June 16-Aug. 28 at Columbia, Creston, Grant, Montavilla, Peninsula, and Pier pools.On select days throughout the summer,
Portland public pools are open for free swim. Half are indoor and half outdoor<b>.</b></span><br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b> </b></span></span><br />
<h2>
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Beach Trippin' </b></span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7mqbqDfNgY/VXdMHfL8ngI/AAAAAAAAWZw/vvxqmWQFD-c/s1600/cannon-beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7mqbqDfNgY/VXdMHfL8ngI/AAAAAAAAWZw/vvxqmWQFD-c/s640/cannon-beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.beachconnection.net/oregon_coast/72207oregon_coast_tidepools.php"><span style="font-size: large;">Oregon Coast Tide Pools: A Complete Guide </span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zKtWTlQcq8/VXdMz0gO7dI/AAAAAAAAWZ4/dPirpYNMMmY/s1600/yach_bobcreekwave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zKtWTlQcq8/VXdMz0gO7dI/AAAAAAAAWZ4/dPirpYNMMmY/s640/yach_bobcreekwave.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.beachconnection.net/news/kidschild021413_701.php"><span style="font-size: large;">Oregon Coast for Kids</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><a href="http://www.tillamook.com/cheese-factory/index.html">
</a><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1mw3Y-zkR4/VXcPoDZ96ZI/AAAAAAAAWYA/1gnz7zLkB48/s640/3338.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tillamook.com/cheese-factory/index.html">Tillamook Cheese Factory</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">
<b> </b></span></h2>
<h2>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Great Outdoors. Hiking, Camping... </span></b></h2>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hiking </span></h3>
<h1 class="entry-title" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lTSghalp-bw/VXcO-zrVnbI/AAAAAAAAWX4/8zY1_sdPzBQ/s1600/6b668542-5485-441c-8e88-672f014f9fa5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lTSghalp-bw/VXcO-zrVnbI/AAAAAAAAWX4/8zY1_sdPzBQ/s640/6b668542-5485-441c-8e88-672f014f9fa5.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.newscastic.com/news/10-perfect-hikes-for-kids-2757951/"><span style="font-size: large;">10 Perfect PDX Hikes for Kids </span></a></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span></h1>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tualatin Hills Nature Park </span></span></span></div>
<h1 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></h1>
<h1 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://redtri.com/portland/waterfall-hikes-for-families/"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://redtri.com/portland/waterfall-hikes-for-families/"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1bbdYoHdF-o/VXdNTFIZHaI/AAAAAAAAWaA/6_3LFOd9ccU/s1600/elowah-falls-e1430679719584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1bbdYoHdF-o/VXdNTFIZHaI/AAAAAAAAWaA/6_3LFOd9ccU/s640/elowah-falls-e1430679719584.jpg" width="426" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><a href="http://redtri.com/portland/waterfall-hikes-for-families/"><span style="font-size: large;">7 Waterfall Hikes Your Family Will Love </span></a></span></div>
</span></span></h1>
<h1 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></h1>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrLesCQZW5Q/VXdNs-X-uJI/AAAAAAAAWaI/f4tdNrVrJgs/s1600/p804776400-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrLesCQZW5Q/VXdNs-X-uJI/AAAAAAAAWaI/f4tdNrVrJgs/s640/p804776400-3.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.thingstodoinportland.org/things-to-do/">Great places to hike with kids</a><span style="font-size: small;"> (scroll to the bottom of the page for full list)</span> </span></span></div>
<h1 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></h1>
<h1 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://oregonhikers.org/">OregonHikers.org</a><span style="font-size: small;"> Has a great list of hikes and has search features that allows you to filter for family hikes, distance and dificulty level. Look in the tab 'find a hike'</span></span></span></h1>
<h3 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <b> </b></span></span></h3>
<h3 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Camping</b></span></span></h3>
<h1 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uddZ2BJUEmw/VXdOEbs31SI/AAAAAAAAWaQ/PxnEQ4qZLTE/s1600/20150131_1345362-e1430504616272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uddZ2BJUEmw/VXdOEbs31SI/AAAAAAAAWaQ/PxnEQ4qZLTE/s640/20150131_1345362-e1430504616272.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://redtri.com/portland/family-friendly-campgrounds-and-yurts-near-portland/"><span style="font-size: large;">Great Camping and Yerts Near Portland</span></a> </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mwz2wtpYBeI/VXdOihs9acI/AAAAAAAAWaY/kIH_oBzoskE/s1600/2015-Parks-Guide-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mwz2wtpYBeI/VXdOihs9acI/AAAAAAAAWaY/kIH_oBzoskE/s640/2015-Parks-Guide-cover.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.oregonstateparks.org/">Oregon State Parks</a></span><b> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>(for places to stay, camp, permits, reservations, locations of parks) </b></div>
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<h3>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> Fishing</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XhrlcuYax0/VXdO7LWQe3I/AAAAAAAAWag/wt0nIWssRGI/s1600/lets_go_fishing_map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XhrlcuYax0/VXdO7LWQe3I/AAAAAAAAWag/wt0nIWssRGI/s400/lets_go_fishing_map.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/where_how/50_in_60_portland.asp"><span style="font-size: large;">50 Places to Go Fishing within 60 Minutes of Portland </span></a><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">(Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, can also get permits here) </span></span></b></div>
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<h3>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Outdoor Events </span> </b></h3>
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<b><a href="http://redtri.com/portland/audubon-society-of-portland/" target="_blank">Audubon Society of Portland</a> </b>Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m. at 5151 NW Cornell Rd.<br />
Walk the trails, find birds, visit their wildlife center and nature store. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tryonfriends.org/calendar/?civicrm_install_type=wordpress&cid=all&month=5&yr=2015" target="_blank"><b>Story and Stroll</b></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Thursdays and Fridays, 1-2:15 p.m. and Sundays, 10-11:15 a.m. at Tryon Creek Nature Center, 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd. It is a fun and free event designed for families with children 2-6 years old. The story is read by a park naturalist then followed by a guided walk through the park. Make a reservation on their site. <br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.leachgarden.org/event/weekend-guided-tours/?eID=3970" target="_blank">Leach Botanical Garden</a></b><br />
Every Saturday, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at 6704 SE 122nd Ave. There is a guided tour with a gardener/curator takes
place the first Saturday of each month. <br />
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<h2 class="entry-title">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Awesome Parks </span></span></b></h2>
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://washingtonparkpdx.org/" target="_blank"><b>Washington Park</b></a> – Also home of Oregon Zoo, Portland Childrens Museum and World Forestry Center. It is full of gardens, trees, trails and a large playground. </span><br />
<h1 class="entry-title">
</h1>
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurelhurst_Park" target="_blank"><b>Laurelhurst Park</b></a>
– 26 acres of walking trails, a great playground, and large duck pond.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.portlandparks.org/parks/finder/">City of Portland Parks and Recreation</a> - search for any Portland park with various amenities/activities </span><br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></h3>
<h3>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Park Programs</span><br />
</b></h3>
<a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489143" target="_blank"><b>Portland’s Summer Playground and Free Lunch Program</b></a><b> </b>June 18-Aug. 21 in Neighborhood Portland parks. Free summer fun with a mobile climbing wall, crafts, sports, songs and more. <br />
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<br />
<b><a href="http://www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/58929" target="_blank">Sunday Parkways</a> </b>Sundays: June 21, July 26, Aug. 23 and Sept. 27, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. in NE, SE and SW neighborhoods. Cycle as many as 6-7 miles via blocked-off
streets in your hood or someone else’s. Stop for games, crafts, live music, playground fun, shade, and food. <br />
<b></b><br />
<b></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.summerfoodoregon.org/">Oregon Summer Meals </a> </b>offers free lunches to any in need children ages 1-18. Their are tons of locations, most are at schools, parks or apartment complexes. <br />
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<h2 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Pacific Northwest Summer Fairs & Festivals</span></h2>
<h1 class="entry-title">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vKBW2cbUcrA/VXYpSaVdgrI/AAAAAAAAWXM/ihrPaYHnyM8/s1600/pacific-northwest-summer-fairs-festivals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vKBW2cbUcrA/VXYpSaVdgrI/AAAAAAAAWXM/ihrPaYHnyM8/s640/pacific-northwest-summer-fairs-festivals.jpg" width="460" /></a><span style="font-size: 180%; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.frugallivingnw.com/pacific-northwest-summer-fairs-festivals-2/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">list found here </span></a></span></div>
</h1>
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<h3>
<b>Additional Festivals<br />
</b></h3>
<b><a href="http://cruisin2014.cruisinsherwood.org/">Cruisin Sherwood </a>- </b>Saturday June 13th, block party until 10pm. Hot rods, food and drinks, a kid zone. Great for families. <br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.beaumontvillagepdx.com/fremont-fest/" target="_blank">Fremont Fest -</a></b> Saturday August 1, 10am-5pm at NE Fremont from NE 42nd -NE 50th streets. It will have a kids parade, live music, vendors, bouncy house and crafts <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HEzM5T4aoe8/VXcmX7Z29GI/AAAAAAAAWZI/_sLuRpj0cQY/s1600/home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HEzM5T4aoe8/VXcmX7Z29GI/AAAAAAAAWZI/_sLuRpj0cQY/s640/home.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://www.portlandsaturdaymarket.com/" target="_blank">Portland Saturday Market</a> </b>–
Visit the nation’s largest open-air market. Open every weekend March
through Christmas Eve. Tons of unique handmade items, awesome music,
and a variety of food options.One visit to Saturday Market, and you’ll
understand why Portland’s slogan is “Keep Portland Weird.”<br />
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<h2>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Farmers Markets and U-picks</span></b></h2>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vyIsoWmKFh8/VXcQtfiPFzI/AAAAAAAAWYI/36X2d9OlPbY/s1600/Farmers-Market-Guide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vyIsoWmKFh8/VXcQtfiPFzI/AAAAAAAAWYI/36X2d9OlPbY/s640/Farmers-Market-Guide.jpg" width="394" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://thegoodheartedwoman.com/seasonal-eating/portland-area-farmers-market-guide/">Farmers Market Guide </a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.tricountyfarm.org/"><span style="font-size: 180%;"></span></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0mDF-tAooLA/VXcYq1a6mII/AAAAAAAAWYk/u-O_CHB1DTU/s1600/logo_tricountyfarms_0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0mDF-tAooLA/VXcYq1a6mII/AAAAAAAAWYk/u-O_CHB1DTU/s640/logo_tricountyfarms_0.png" width="640" /></a><a href="http://www.tricountyfarm.org/">Tri-County Farms </a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 180%;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">A great list of local u-pick farms with links to each farms information. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><br /></span>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Not on the list, but should be! </b></span></span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3oLr4nhtbOk/VXcZSkCIC1I/AAAAAAAAWYs/AwstCj1PpSs/s1600/257755_415979218464973_468249942_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3oLr4nhtbOk/VXcZSkCIC1I/AAAAAAAAWYs/AwstCj1PpSs/s640/257755_415979218464973_468249942_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.bellsorchard.com/">Bells Orchard </a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">who have peaches, apples and pears </span> </span></div>
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<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Library Programs </b></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b></b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0jFy2Sk2Kg/VXcXYESOhII/AAAAAAAAWYY/8TNaMHe7yYU/s1600/tumblr_nivxz9K2oA1t8tqwto1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0jFy2Sk2Kg/VXcXYESOhII/AAAAAAAAWYY/8TNaMHe7yYU/s640/tumblr_nivxz9K2oA1t8tqwto1_1280.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><b><span style="font-size: small;">All libraries have so many fun free things going on. Summer reading programs, events, concerts. Check out your closest library for a list of events. </span></b></span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.wccls.org/">Washington County Libraries</a></b> have tons going on. Check out <a href="http://www.wccls.org/your_libraries">each library</a> for their schedule of events and programs this summer. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">You can also check out <a href="http://www.wccls.org/lending_library/cultural_pass">Cultural Passes</a> to get into many great museums for free. You can reserve them in advance and sometimes their gone fast but I've found over half the time they are there for last minute trips. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="https://multcolib.org/">Multnomah County Libraries </a></b> have lots going on this summer, check out their events page <a href="https://multcolib.org/events">here.</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">You can find out more about <a href="https://multcolib.org/hours-and-locations">each libraries</a> events by looking at their individual pages</span>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://alohalibrary.org/#sthash.f6nrOWob.dpbs">Aloha Community Library</a></b> (I didn't know they had one!) but they have great programs and <a href="http://alohalibrary.org/wp/programs-and-events/#sthash.Sql4TgGt.dpbs">events</a> going on this summer. </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
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<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Entertainment </b></span></h2>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Movies</b></span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8TR9iBtmNfI/VXcajkSkfFI/AAAAAAAAWY4/Ai7IRT95gx8/s1600/983128414f0a7240fc22045e38fa5590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8TR9iBtmNfI/VXcajkSkfFI/AAAAAAAAWY4/Ai7IRT95gx8/s640/983128414f0a7240fc22045e38fa5590.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.regmovies.com/Movies/Summer-Movie-Express?">Regal Summer Movies </a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">My kids favorite (mostly because I'm too cheap to pay for full price tickets!) The movie theatre experience without the price tag. </span></span></div>
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<b><a href="http://thesquarepdx.org/flicks-on-the-bricks/" target="_blank">Flicks on the Bricks</a></b><br />
Friday evenings at dusk, July 24 and 31, August 7, 14 and 21. Pioneer Courthouse Square, 715 SW Morrison St.<b> </b>For five Friday nights over the summer Pioneer Square is turned into an outdoor movie
theater. Throw your chairs in the car, bring blankets and make a night
of it — picnic basket and all. <br />
<b><b></b></b><br />
<b><a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489142" target="_blank"><b>Movies in the Park</b><br />
</a></b>July 8-Sept. 11<b> </b>at parks throughout Portland; see <a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489142" target="_blank">website</a> for locations and movie selections.<b><br />
</b>Hosted by Portland Parks Department and is great for the whole family. Wear PJ's, bring blankets, a picnic. Check out the<b><b> </b></b><a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489142" target="_blank">schedule</a> for details about the movies to make sure the pick of the week is a good fit for your family.<br />
<a href="http://www.ci.hillsboro.or.us/index.aspx?page=20"><br /></a>
<b><a href="http://www.ci.hillsboro.or.us/index.aspx?page=20"> Pix on the Plaza</a> - Hillsboro </b><br />
<b>June 12, 19, 26th at 7pm </b><span class="component_listitem_content"><span class="Component_ListContent" id="ctl00_locationLabel">Civic Center Plaza 150 East Main St. Hillsboro, Oregon 97123</span>
</span><br />
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<b>Libraries </b>- I have been informed some libraries provide movie nights so make sure to check out your local library to see what events they offer. Also they have TONS of DVD's you can check out. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Concerts and Music <span style="font-size: small;">(be sure to check out your local library for additional co</span></b><b><span style="font-size: small;">ncerts)</span></b></span></h3>
<a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489141" target="_blank"><b>Concerts in the Parks</b><br />
</a>July 6-Aug. 26<b> </b>in neighborhood parks around Portland; visit the <a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489141" target="_blank">website</a> for locations and performances. Music and crowd are family friendly and always has food for sale.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NOEm-b_aX0M/VXcmk-1oDKI/AAAAAAAAWZQ/c-YGM9Y02fg/s1600/Concerts%2B2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NOEm-b_aX0M/VXcmk-1oDKI/AAAAAAAAWZQ/c-YGM9Y02fg/s640/Concerts%2B2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489145" target="_blank">Washington Park Summer Festival</a></b><br />
Aug. 7-14, 6 p.m.<b> </b>at the<b> </b>Washington Park Rose Garden Amphitheater, 611 SW Kingston Ave.<br />
Performances take place
nightly for a week straight, and include bluesy-Americana music to Taiko
drumming. Don’t forget to pack your picnic blanket and dinner for your
crew.<br />
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<b><a href="http://thesquarepdx.org/noon-tunes/" target="_blank">Noon Tunes</a></b><br />
Tuesdays and Thursdays,12-1 p.m. July-Aug.<b> </b>at Pioneer Courthouse Square, 715 SW Morrison St.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Other Entertainment </span></b></h3>
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<a href="http://www.kidsbowlfree.com/" target="" title="Kids Bowl Free">Free Bowling for kids</a> -<a href="https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/all_centers.php" target="_blank"> sign your kids u<b> </b></a>for 2 free games of bowling everyday this summer, you only have to pay for shoes.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" style="color: #005579;" target="_blank">Wunderland Cinema and Nickel Games</a></b> –
All locations include a nickel arcade. Some locations include a movie
theater and laser tag. Most games are a nickel and laser tag is $4. Sign
up for their email list to have them email you deals.<br />
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<b><a href="http://gobytram.com/" target="_blank">Portland Aerial Tram</a> – </b>An exciting way to enjoy a gorgeous view of Portland. Amazing views of <a href="http://mountsthelens.com/" target="_blank">Mt. St. Helens</a> and <a href="http://www.mthood.info/" target="_blank">Mt. Hood</a>. Kids under 6 ride FREE.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mommytravels.net/2009/04/safety-learning-center-fire-museum-portland-or/" target="_blank" title="Safety Learning Center & Fire Museum – Portland, OR">Historic Belmont Firehouse </a>offers free tours every Wednesday from 9-3, and the second Saturday of every month for “Safety Saturday” from 9-3 <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Places to Visit That are a Little More $$$$ </span></b></h2>
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<a href="https://www.omsi.edu/">OMSI </a>- Adults $13, Youth 3-13 $9.50, 3yr and under free. Also have a submarine, lazer show and theatre (each costs additional). It's a great deal to get a pass if you live locally.<br />
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<i><b>$2 admission on the first Sunday of each month. </b></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.oregonzoo.org/">ZOO </a>Adults $11.50, Youth 3-11 $8.50, 3 and under free. Another great place to get a yearly pass to if you're local. Summer events and concerts held throughout the summer.<br />
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<a href="http://www.portlandcm.org/"><br /></a><i><b>
$4 admission on the second Tuesday of each month. </b></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.portlandcm.org/">Portland Children's Museum </a>- Ages 1-54 $10, 1 and under free, 55+ $9. Open 9am -5pm daily. Tons of stuff to do with various events and exhibits.<br />
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<i><b>FREE admission the first Friday of each month from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. </b></i><br />
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World Forestry Center -<br />
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<i><b>$3 admission the first Wednesday of each month. </b></i><br />
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Portland Art Museum -<br />
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<i><b>FREE admission on the fourth Friday of each month from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. </b></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.enchantedforest.com/">Enchanted Forest</a> - For general admission Adults $10.95, Children ages 3-12 $9.95, 2 and under free. Lots of rides (price for each depends, see website). Fun rides, food and attractions.<br />
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<a href="http://www.wildlifesafari.net/">Wildlife Safari</a>- Adults 13-59 $17.99, Children 3-12 $11.99, 2 and under free. Open 9am -5pm Drive through animal park.<br />
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<a href="http://pittockmansion.org/">Pittock Mansion</a> - Adults $10, Youth ages 6-18 $7, under 6 free. Visit beautiful historical mansion overlooking the city.<br />
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<a href="http://www.oakspark.com/">Oaks Amusement Park</a> - Free to enter park, ride bracelets can be purchased as well as entrance to skating rink. Check out your local library for summer reading programs. If you complete Washington Counties summer reading program you can get discount ride tickets. <br />
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<a href="http://evergreenmuseum.org/waterpark/">Evergreen Waves and Wings Waterpark and Aerospace Museum</a> - You can go for the waterpark, the museum, to see an IMAX movie. Different prices for each, see website for details. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Additional websites with great resources </b></span></h2>
<b><a href="http://www.thingstodoinportland.org/">Things to do in Portland </a></b>Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-14429813281867637652015-06-02T21:42:00.001-07:002015-06-18T13:53:55.621-07:00Lego Party My little guy has been talking about his Lego birthday party for almost a year. What can I say the kids loves Legos. So we planned and talked about everything from decorations to food and games. All were 4 year old approved. Take a look at what we did to make his day special! <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYzlmP6Dt68/VW6Dy3f29_I/AAAAAAAAWT8/m8tI9JwclzA/s1600/Lego%2BCollage%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYzlmP6Dt68/VW6Dy3f29_I/AAAAAAAAWT8/m8tI9JwclzA/s640/Lego%2BCollage%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Mr. 4 year old himself. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RPTs1WZZ0zw/VW6E1ZDvpVI/AAAAAAAAWUg/sXf1W53q8sY/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RPTs1WZZ0zw/VW6E1ZDvpVI/AAAAAAAAWUg/sXf1W53q8sY/s640/Lego%2BParty%2B2b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">See links below for details! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Lego Party Food</span><br />
<a href="http://onmysideoftheroom.blogspot.com/2015/03/lego-party-decorations.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Lego Party Decorations</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Lego Party Games </span><br />
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<br />Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-34268863545823725702015-04-29T00:00:00.000-07:002015-05-27T14:52:49.743-07:00Mother's Day Giveaway - Closed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mother's Day is around the corner. I don't think you can over celebrate Mother's Day, so what better way to celebrate than with a giveaway! So enter to spoil yourself or to spoil someone else. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBQANMMudpM/VT6WJTvwv3I/AAAAAAAAKes/1nUJI0ZreHg/s1600/mothers%2Bday.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBQANMMudpM/VT6WJTvwv3I/AAAAAAAAKes/1nUJI0ZreHg/s1600/mothers%2Bday.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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There are such fabulous prizes this time from some awesome sponsors.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/iillume" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iillume</a> - $30 Shop Credit<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Lisamadisonshoppe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lisa Madison Shoppe</a> - Custom Cartoon Family Portrait<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/bellezamia" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Belleza Mia Jewelry</a> - Personalized Mother's Birthstone Necklace<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/sunnymorningdesigns" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sunny Morning Designs</a> - $25 Shop Credit<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheArtwerks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Art Werks</a> - 16 inch Pillow Cover<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SignChik" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sign Chik </a>- $30 Shop Credit<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PreciousLittleTot" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Precious Little Tot</a> - Pacifier Bag and Matching Clip<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="f78e0d9310" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f78e0d9310/" id="rcwidget_3sqrghzx" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
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The giveaway will be open until May 6th at Midnight. Good Luck!Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-13265105515162993662015-03-13T00:43:00.001-07:002015-06-18T13:54:24.987-07:00It's Meme Mania Over Here. It all started with this picture I found as I was looking through my photos. His little face makes me laugh. Then I tried to think of something funny and got nothing so I asked some social media friends what they though and got some great ideas. <br />
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I made all of these on the site <a href="http://memedad.com/">Meme Dad</a>, super easy to use. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKN1TOBFEkQ/VQKTKwWNlrI/AAAAAAAAVEA/qFDLbYTryzw/s1600/Astonished%2BDavis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKN1TOBFEkQ/VQKTKwWNlrI/AAAAAAAAVEA/qFDLbYTryzw/s1600/Astonished%2BDavis.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVOeS7PrmBg/VQKTIRVDR8I/AAAAAAAAVDg/mD_oVzrKSxE/s1600/515402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVOeS7PrmBg/VQKTIRVDR8I/AAAAAAAAVDg/mD_oVzrKSxE/s1600/515402.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udRAfGQhXUA/VQKTHwZp3KI/AAAAAAAAVDY/dwECPb9DVxs/s1600/515384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udRAfGQhXUA/VQKTHwZp3KI/AAAAAAAAVDY/dwECPb9DVxs/s1600/515384.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tqirFwEi5tI/VQKTHxUqdLI/AAAAAAAAVDc/8R93l3OhvpU/s1600/515386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tqirFwEi5tI/VQKTHxUqdLI/AAAAAAAAVDc/8R93l3OhvpU/s1600/515386.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXkZeopfH_Y/VQKTKbZ8CDI/AAAAAAAAVD0/SP0eEhOb9us/s1600/515415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXkZeopfH_Y/VQKTKbZ8CDI/AAAAAAAAVD0/SP0eEhOb9us/s1600/515415.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Then I remembered this picture and thought I'd see what came up. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgp-BNYfUvU/VQKT1YBdsGI/AAAAAAAAVEw/S1okICjKAQU/s1600/Surprised%2BDavis%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgp-BNYfUvU/VQKT1YBdsGI/AAAAAAAAVEw/S1okICjKAQU/s1600/Surprised%2BDavis%2B2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GfmspQi-4rk/VQKTHz9kEyI/AAAAAAAAVEo/5zLidz4PHtM/s1600/515390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GfmspQi-4rk/VQKTHz9kEyI/AAAAAAAAVEo/5zLidz4PHtM/s1600/515390.jpg" width="460" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dl0xcvNGAh0/VQKTIwYrwUI/AAAAAAAAVDk/I4JCYdL6NAc/s1600/515404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dl0xcvNGAh0/VQKTIwYrwUI/AAAAAAAAVDk/I4JCYdL6NAc/s1600/515404.jpg" width="460" /></a></div>
And lastly this. I promise he didn't hit his brother or wasn't trying to. He was just playing around with the mallet and was doing it a little to close to his little bro. I made him move right away. After I got the picture though :)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YLBSP36ZomI/VQKUY_9cBfI/AAAAAAAAVE4/bUYvznrijnc/s1600/Levi%2BHammer%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YLBSP36ZomI/VQKUY_9cBfI/AAAAAAAAVE4/bUYvznrijnc/s1600/Levi%2BHammer%2B2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-42332539804243043072015-03-12T23:39:00.004-07:002015-06-18T13:55:00.191-07:00Lego Party: Decorations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since I only do 'big parties' every other year (with friends, decorations, a theme, games..... the works) we usually go all out. I know I couldn't handle this every year. Not for this mama. No thank you. But I do love it on the years I do get to do them and it gets my party planning bug out of my system for a while. <br />
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This particular year my 4 year old decided almost a year in advance what he wanted, Legos. Naturally. They are scattered throughout my house and my boys live and breathe all things Lego. <br />
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Here are the decorations! <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XBoT5oo0NNA/VM9Erifc08I/AAAAAAAAUlA/Bsjt42IuxEo/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2BDecorations%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XBoT5oo0NNA/VM9Erifc08I/AAAAAAAAUlA/Bsjt42IuxEo/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2BDecorations%2BCollage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGFb_8x8Rws/VQJ7vIk2lgI/AAAAAAAAVDA/0pJmycaVHsk/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGFb_8x8Rws/VQJ7vIk2lgI/AAAAAAAAVDA/0pJmycaVHsk/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B1b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
First a sign, I like having some sort of poster or something to show people where to go. This is probably because I'm terrible with directions and could always use some help. Outside we did balloons on the mailbox outside our house and then inside, since we live in the upper part of a split level, a simple poster. This is just a red poster with letters that I actually printed on my computer then glued to yellow poster board and cut around. Not too tricky.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VV3DIPwyRpA/VM9EpuFio6I/AAAAAAAAUkk/2-6Pf9S5ARY/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VV3DIPwyRpA/VM9EpuFio6I/AAAAAAAAUkk/2-6Pf9S5ARY/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And since I love to put up pictures of the birthday boy I slapped these prints I already had on the wall just under so the kids could see them. I had done these a month or so before for his preschool class. <br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lv_jZoIWQtA/VM9EosIbWxI/AAAAAAAAUkY/HGOd83PGVRQ/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lv_jZoIWQtA/VM9EosIbWxI/AAAAAAAAUkY/HGOd83PGVRQ/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B3.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Isn't he a cute little 4 year old? <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XwA1o9jRTS8/VQJ5ADNgoBI/AAAAAAAAVCM/Avls1vxRUHE/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XwA1o9jRTS8/VQJ5ADNgoBI/AAAAAAAAVCM/Avls1vxRUHE/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B2b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Then I like to put big things up on the wall so I had the idea to do large Lego minifigures scattered throughout. We love minifigures. I found all these pictures online then just enlarged and printed them on white cardstock. Slapped a black table cloth over the railing we were working on which is right by the door. It was UGLY and needed a good cover up. Add tape and throw the little guys around wherever. My boys loved helping.<br />
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Cutting out took some time but I did them a little at a time while I was watching a movie or something. If my boys were older and could cut out better I might have had them help. You could also just keep them on white sheets of paper. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CnOCjVDJZ_M/VM9Eqp3nNVI/AAAAAAAAUk0/XnNo3Op7p94/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CnOCjVDJZ_M/VM9Eqp3nNVI/AAAAAAAAUk0/XnNo3Op7p94/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
More figures by the goodie bags! I had my boys help me pick their favorite guys to print. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNvHX3xkBY8/VM9ErOHeP7I/AAAAAAAAUk4/NLToYyiNFu0/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNvHX3xkBY8/VM9ErOHeP7I/AAAAAAAAUk4/NLToYyiNFu0/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I also made the food table fun. I saw Lego heads to store Legos but they were CRAZY expensive. No thank you. So I made these out of large peanut butter containers. We eat a lot of peanut butter round here. Spray paint yellow and I made up little decal shadow faces with my Silhouette machine. Then put them on some little crates I got at the dollar store. Bonus, my boys got to keep them to put their legos in later. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-abSF5T5StTM/VQJ7FCiibdI/AAAAAAAAVCc/0V209aj7DtY/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B10b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-abSF5T5StTM/VQJ7FCiibdI/AAAAAAAAVCc/0V209aj7DtY/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B10b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
We had a friend of ours who is good at making pinatas make ours. I've tried making them myself but I'm terrible at it and he's 10 and so it was a good way for him and his dad to do a project and earn some side money. It turned out great. <br />
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The other thing that I loved with doing this them is with the decorating is that my boys got to help out a lot. We pulled out all our Lego books, Lego minifigures, Lego creations and went to town. My boys had a lot of fun putting things everywhere. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dabV5rL7uH4/VQJ7XJIeBXI/AAAAAAAAVC4/T7ufaMuPrZs/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B17b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dabV5rL7uH4/VQJ7XJIeBXI/AAAAAAAAVC4/T7ufaMuPrZs/s1600/Lego%2BParty%2B17b.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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One of the things I try to do is to instead of doing lots of little decorations is to a couple big ones. So posters to the rescue! These also hide things I don't want to be seen. Bonus. <br />
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I took these pictures myself because I since I take pictures of my jewelry for my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/bellezamia">shop </a>I have learned a bit about macro photography and wanted to do my own minifigure pictures in my own way. So I had my birthday boy pick out his 3 favorite minifigures and I photographed them. Then I printed them (it was a blue print one done for cheap, tutorial <a href="http://www.iammommahearmeroar.net/2011/03/superhero-bedroom-part-4.html">here</a>) and mounted them to foam posterboards. Added some string and hung them from the ceiling.<br />
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The posters along with some streamers were a hit as well as hiding our tv and bookcases.Yey for hiding the clutter. <br />
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Lastly this was part of our activities as well. I like to have something for kids to do when they get to the party, usually color and play. I found these printable so kids could color their own minifigures and then we hung them up. I loved how creative all the kids got. <br />
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Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-39041176176326890552015-02-04T01:20:00.000-08:002015-02-13T12:17:22.381-08:00Love is in the Air Giveaway - CLOSED Love makes the world go round and to celebrate this Valentines we've put together a great prize package. One winner will get all of this!!!!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bx3otTGkFC4/VNHhmYrrT7I/AAAAAAAAUsw/l2bPD1N5N-c/s1600/VDay%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bx3otTGkFC4/VNHhmYrrT7I/AAAAAAAAUsw/l2bPD1N5N-c/s1600/VDay%2BCollage.jpg" height="640" style="cursor: move;" width="466" /></a></div>
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Check out these sponsors they are pretty amazing!<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopThreeFrenchHens">Three French Hens </a>- I Love You More banner<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CreationsbyCathy777">Creations By Cathy</a> - Ivory Pillow and Insert<br />
<a href="http://www.bellezamia.etsy.com/">Belleza Mia Jewelry</a> - Sterling Couples Necklace<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheOystersPearl">The Oysters Pearl</a> - 11 x 14 Personalized 'Best Thing Ever' Print<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSewingPost">The Sewing Post</a> - Set of 10 Love Washi Tapes<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ScarfsGlovesAndMore">Anna Pax Baby Hats </a>- Black and White Heart Gloves<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/OliveHandmade">Olive Handmade</a> - Olive You Pillow Cover <br />
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Giveaway goes through Wednesday February 11th at Midnight. Good luck!<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="f78e0d939" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f78e0d939/" id="rcwidget_8mo85wcv" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
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<br />
And the winner is Jasanna Czellar! Thank you everyone for participating.
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com117tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-20294108616306002362015-02-02T01:09:00.000-08:002015-07-08T01:51:11.969-07:00Easy Army Camo Cupcakes Recipe I made these for my son's half birthday last year. He's a summer birthday so he gets to celebrate his half birthday at school. He wanted an army theme so I made these up and all the kids loved them. I loved them because they look (and taste) awesome but actually didn't take too much work. I mean, buying them would have taken a lot less work but every now and again I love to something special just for one of my guys. <br />
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These look more complicated than they are and I'm so serious in saying that anyone can do this.<br />
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First I made up two batches of yellow cake batter. White is better but yellow will work. I did it from a box because I like things easy like that. You can use whatever recipe you want though.<br />
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Then you'll need to pick whatever colors you want. Since I was going for the army camo look I used these Wilton gels. I used <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CFN7S/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0000CFN7S&linkCode=as2&tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=NDURVG3AMY3YCOZ7%22%3EWilton%20610-981%20Icing%20Gel,%201-Ounce,%20Black%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=onmysiofthro-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0000CFN7S%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">black</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007SQ37UO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007SQ37UO&linkCode=as2&tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=6F6UDCKKNOPR7SVC%22%3EWilton%20W610-507%20Icing%20Colors,%201-Ounce,%20Brown%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=onmysiofthro-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B007SQ37UO%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">brown </a>and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000VMA2K/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0000VMA2K&linkCode=as2&tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=VSUT2DVM2QHAIWR2%22%3EWilton%20Icing%20Colors,%201-Ounce,%20Moss%20Green%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=onmysiofthro-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0000VMA2K%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">moss green</a>. I've found they are the best and go a long way. You'll only need a little bit. <br />
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I divided the batter into four smaller bowls and mixed the colors. For the tan I just used about half the amount of brown food coloring. <br />
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Then cupcake liners. This particular batter wasn't very thick so I ended up droping a small spoonful of one color, then another, then another to get them to be like drops of batter instead of forming level layers. This probably took the longest amount of time.<br />
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Going back, to save time I probably would have made the batter thicker by using this recipe.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Super Moist Boxed Cake Mix </b></div>
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1 box Cake Mix <br />
4 large eggs<br />
1/2 Cup canola oil<br />
1/2 Cup water<br />
8 oz sour cream<br />
1 small box instant vanilla pudding mix<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a stand or electric mixer add the
cake mix, eggs, oil, water, sour cream, pudding mix and chocolate chips.
Beat until well combined, about 1 1/2 minutes. Will be thick. Pour
evenly into 2 well greased 9 inch cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or
until toothpick comes out clean from center of cakes. Let cool
completely. <br />
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This would have made it nice and thick and super moist. Next time! <br />
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Also when you fill them you want to make sure they are about 3/4 full so they have a nice cupcake top instead of being flat. They just look preittier this way.<br />
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Cook them however the box says. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7To-c4usqE/VM837VbZlQI/AAAAAAAAUfU/ChYZ3uTA-wo/s1600/Army%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7To-c4usqE/VM837VbZlQI/AAAAAAAAUfU/ChYZ3uTA-wo/s1600/Army%2B4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Time for frosting. <br />
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I normally never use a recipe for frosting anymore but if you want to get all technical, this is the closest I get to it.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Vanilla Buttercream Frosting</b></div>
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3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
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1 cup butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 to 2 tablespoons whipping cream
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<b>Directions
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In a standing mixer fitted with a whisk, mix together sugar and
butter. Mix on low speed until well blended and then increase speed to
medium and beat for another 4 minutes.
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<br />
Add vanilla and cream and continue to beat on medium speed for 1
minute more, adding more cream if needed for spreading consistency.</div>
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<b>To decorate: </b><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QJ8BCF4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00QJ8BCF4&linkCode=as2&tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=PGA4ERMCSG2AZBUF%22%3ECupcake%20Decorating%20Kit%20-%20The%20Perfect%20Cupcake%20By%20Love2bake%20-X-Large%20Stainless%20Steel%20Tips%20&%20Icing%20Bags%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=onmysiofthro-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00QJ8BCF4%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">This </a>is where I got my cupcake tip kit. It is makes cupcakes look ahmazing and like they took a lot more work than actually do. This one was just one quick squirt and an army guy plopped on top. We got a big bucket of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005P0CTW2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005P0CTW2&linkCode=as2&tag=onmysiofthro-20&linkId=OTWOV4OWY2MXTL5D%22%3EAction%20Figures%20Army%20Men%20Soldier%20Bucket%20Playset%20with%20Tanks,%20Planes,%20Flags%20&%20More!%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=onmysiofthro-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B005P0CTW2%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">army action figures</a> and so I let my birthday boy do that, he loved it. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7-IJkH0-uo/VM838WKFdpI/AAAAAAAAUfs/0nqK3vwEIWk/s1600/Army%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7-IJkH0-uo/VM838WKFdpI/AAAAAAAAUfs/0nqK3vwEIWk/s1600/Army%2B5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Bam. And there you go. You can really use just about any color combination and it will make your cupcakes that much awesomer. Cause that's totally a word. <br />
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Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-89318093414734281932014-12-08T03:44:00.002-08:002015-01-07T12:19:57.948-08:00Silver and Gold Giveaway - CLOSED <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Growing up I remember my mom playing 'Silver and Gold' on the piano during the holidays. It was one of my favorites and now I have found I love to decorate with silver and gold during the holidays.<br />
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And because of this we have found some great 'Silver and Gold' decorations for you and your home from some amazingly talented sponsors. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-87SRiolTKI8/VIXh6zq-hVI/AAAAAAAATJ8/zSaWJqK88rY/s1600/Silver%2Band%2BGold%2BGiveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-87SRiolTKI8/VIXh6zq-hVI/AAAAAAAATJ8/zSaWJqK88rY/s1600/Silver%2Band%2BGold%2BGiveaway.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Sponsors: </span><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LucyBlaire">Lucy Blaire</a> - Set of three gold makeup bags ($54 value)<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DamaskLaceDesign">Damask & Lace Design</a> - "Stay Forever Young" and gold and black chevron journal ($28 value) <br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/moderncloth">Modern Cloth</a> - Half Yard Quilt Bundle, 5 prints from the Glitz line by Michael Miller ($25 value)<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/EveOfJoy">Eve of Joy</a> - Shop Credit $25 <br />
<a href="http://www.prettychicsf.etsy.com/"> Pretty Chic</a> - 11x14 "She Leaves Sparkle" print ($24 value) <br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/GoldenDaysDesigns">Golden Day Designs </a>- Gold Art Deco Clock ($35 value)<br />
<a href="http://lettersparrow.etsy.com/">Letter Sparrow</a> - Shop Credit $25 <br />
<a href="http://www.bellezamia.etsy.com/">Belleza Mia Jewelry</a> - Sterling Stud Earrings and Sterling Three Ring Necklace ($72 value)<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="f78e0d938" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f78e0d938/" id="rcwidget_9f96t9vg" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<br />
<br />
And the winner is Abbie Lynn! Thank you everyone for participating! <br />
<br />
Our sponsors this time (and all the time) really are amazing. So not only should you look through their shops but follow them or like them in order to see the all the new things that they come up with.Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com127tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-52420369079147770912014-11-17T04:59:00.002-08:002014-11-25T10:43:12.972-08:00Home Sweet Home Giveaway CLOSEDDon't you just love giveaways? We are so excited to share this one with you to celebrate the release of our new Home Sweet Home necklace collection at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/bellezamia?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">Belleza Mia Jewelry</a>!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SnEL_QXKTo0/VGnmeXb25TI/AAAAAAAAS28/4iqgiGz-Kck/s1600/Home%2BSweet%2BHome%2BGiveaway%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SnEL_QXKTo0/VGnmeXb25TI/AAAAAAAAS28/4iqgiGz-Kck/s1600/Home%2BSweet%2BHome%2BGiveaway%2B.jpg" height="640" width="393" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> So the details. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3 winners. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1st Grand Prize Winner</span> will everything pictured (or store credit to shop so they can choose their own). It includes: <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.bellezamia.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Belleza Mia Jewelry</a> - Home Sweet Home Necklace - Your choice of design valued at $42 <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RefinedWreath" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Refined Wreath - </a>$50 shop credit, door hanger, and monogram added to their wreath.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kassapanola" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kassapanola</a> - Decorative Pillow Covers $25 shop credit </div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/alaceycreation" target="_blank">A Lacey Creation </a>- Home Banner valued at $35</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TypecastLettering" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Typecast Lettering</a> - Hand Lettered Custom Address Stamp ($40 value) </div>
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For any readers this month use code THANKYOU for 10% off this month. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MacTaggartsBrand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MacTaggarts Brand -</a></div>
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Handcrafted Vanilla Cooking Products. 3 items of your choice gift box ($35 value) </div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/hellolovehello" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hello Love Hello</a> - Monogrammed mugs $25 shop credit</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CapturedByMark" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CapturedByMark</a> - Home Decor $25 shop credit</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/nothingbutglisten" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nothing But Glisten</a> - Customized Spoons $25 shop credit</div>
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<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.curiouscookieco.com/" target="_blank">Curious Cookie Company </a>- Set of three cookie mixes valued at $45<br />
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<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/fancifulchaos" target="_blank">Fanciful Chaos</a> - Boxed set of cards valued at $28 <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2nd Place winners (2) </span></div>
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Each will receive a Home Sweet Home Necklace from <a href="http://www.bellezamiajewelry.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Belleza Mia Jewelry</a> valued at up to $42 </div>
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<br /></div>
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f78e0d937/" id="rc-f78e0d937" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This giveaway is closed! And our grand prize winner is:</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Kimberly McLeod</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Our second place winners are (I added one more just for fun!) </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Jolyn Iboy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Rhonda Barrow </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Melanie Fee</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you all for participating and stay tuned for other upcoming giveaways! </span>
<script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script>
Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com93tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-32235379023810662382014-10-27T00:51:00.000-07:002015-06-18T13:56:29.150-07:00Easy Peasy Soft Sugar Cookies <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Decorating sugar cookies was always a fun holiday family tradition growing up. I loved to decorate them. All of my siblings were long gone while I was painstakingly lining up sprinkles in a pattern or something equally time intensive. I just loved to decorate and was pretty serious about it. <br />
<br />
Fast forward to now and I'm a busy mom, three kids, my own business there is just not enough time in the day especially to make a pretty sugar cookie.<br />
<br />
So one day a few years ago I was making cookies for Halloween and was about to get decorating like I always did with a knife and some sprinkles when I thought there had to be a faster way. So this is what I came up with using my favorite sugar cookie recipe. Combined with the equally tasty frosting and they taste like a better version of those soft sugar cookies you get in the bakery section. SOOOOO good. <br />
<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nct0ESUDkPs/VE3tgpNL4VI/AAAAAAAASgg/BMMt9dniF84/s1600/Soft%2BSugar%2BCookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nct0ESUDkPs/VE3tgpNL4VI/AAAAAAAASgg/BMMt9dniF84/s1600/Soft%2BSugar%2BCookies.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
<br />
So first you start off with the sugar cookie recipe.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Vanilla-Almond Sugar Cookies</b></span></div>
<br />
<h2 class="kv-ingred">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients</span></h2>
3 c unbleached, all-purpose flour<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 c sugar<br />
2 sticks (salted) butter, cold<br />
1 egg<br />
3/4 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
1/2 tsp pure almond extract <br />
<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">Directions</span></h2>
Preheat oven to 350.<br />
<br />
Combine
the flour and baking powder, set aside. Cream the sugar and butter.
Add the egg and extracts and mix. Gradually add the flour mixture and
beat just until combined, scraping down the bowl, especially the
bottom.<br />
<br />
The dough will be crumbly, so knead it together with your
hands as you scoop it out of the bowl for rolling. Divide the dough in 4 sections. <br />
<br />
Roll onto a floured surface and cut into shapes. Place on parchment lined baking sheets<br />
and bake for 10-12
minutes. Let sit a few minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a cooling
rack.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hx2rmJkAH1E/VE3thwOY9LI/AAAAAAAASgw/kqkXXRjBn7I/s1600/pumpkin%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hx2rmJkAH1E/VE3thwOY9LI/AAAAAAAASgw/kqkXXRjBn7I/s1600/pumpkin%2B3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Now it's frosting time. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Butter Cream Frosting </span></span></span></div>
<h2 class="kv-ingred">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients</span></h2>
<ul class="kv-ingred-list1">
<li class="ingredient">3 cups confectioners' sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 cup butter</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 to 2 tablespoons whipping cream</li>
</ul>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">Directions</span></h2>
<div class="instructions">
<div class="instruction">
In a standing mixer fitted with a whisk, mix together sugar and
butter. Mix on low speed until well blended and then increase speed to
medium and beat for another 3 minutes. </div>
Add vanilla and cream
and continue to beat on medium speed for 1 minute more, adding more
cream if needed for spreading consistency. </div>
<br />
<br />
Now it's time to decorate! Of course you can do whatever way works best but these are so fast to decorate you can make up a bunch in no time. <br />
<br />
<br />
My frosting tips. <br />
<br />
<br />
104 - for the brown stem<br />
1 round tip - for vine (I actually forgot to add these, whoops! But you just would do green vines by the leaves, so cute)<br />
67 leaf - for the green leaves <br />
1M - for the orange pumpkin<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--STxkqXIBmE/VE3tgpNDsFI/AAAAAAAASgc/M9Lmrnxl4Xc/s1600/pumpkin%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--STxkqXIBmE/VE3tgpNDsFI/AAAAAAAASgc/M9Lmrnxl4Xc/s1600/pumpkin%2B.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
With your 1M tip with orange frosting and start on one side top to bottom around the edge. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qGsufnDLhnc/VE3tiQEKheI/AAAAAAAASg0/WzMNNBN6qbI/s1600/pumpkin%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qGsufnDLhnc/VE3tiQEKheI/AAAAAAAASg0/WzMNNBN6qbI/s1600/pumpkin%2B4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Then the other side. Afterwards another time on each side in the middle. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hXDMXlpr6EE/VE3tijqfG7I/AAAAAAAASg4/SViAqDRfeLE/s1600/pumpkin%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hXDMXlpr6EE/VE3tijqfG7I/AAAAAAAASg4/SViAqDRfeLE/s1600/pumpkin%2B5.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-po0eIw08ZKo/VE3tixEWyLI/AAAAAAAASg8/I6zWKhmXj6A/s1600/pumpkin%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-po0eIw08ZKo/VE3tixEWyLI/AAAAAAAASg8/I6zWKhmXj6A/s1600/pumpkin%2B6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A6r-Ll8rWoc/VE3tjLL5z9I/AAAAAAAAShE/K--dsXYHp5E/s1600/pumpkin%2B7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A6r-Ll8rWoc/VE3tjLL5z9I/AAAAAAAAShE/K--dsXYHp5E/s1600/pumpkin%2B7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After that's done you're going to make an oval for the middle starting at the bottom going up and then back to the bottom again. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fw8tS5smptk/VE3tjaoHvdI/AAAAAAAAShI/3e_jhqru16w/s1600/pumpkin%2B8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fw8tS5smptk/VE3tjaoHvdI/AAAAAAAAShI/3e_jhqru16w/s1600/pumpkin%2B8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Then it's time for the stem, super easy, just two lines with your 104 tip.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FDPH_exZlsY/VE3tj5BPfVI/AAAAAAAAShQ/XdkgxbXcrzg/s1600/pumpkin%2B9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FDPH_exZlsY/VE3tj5BPfVI/AAAAAAAAShQ/XdkgxbXcrzg/s1600/pumpkin%2B9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KB---imNxf0/VE3tgeM8C0I/AAAAAAAASgY/OnNoyEICM2g/s1600/pumpkin%2B10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KB---imNxf0/VE3tgeM8C0I/AAAAAAAASgY/OnNoyEICM2g/s1600/pumpkin%2B10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And then your leaf with your 67 leaf tip. I did two leaves but you can do whatever you'd like. You can also add small vines with your 1 tip. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wS7gsQmcGiM/VE3thIOayII/AAAAAAAASh0/OWZJCJa-ROo/s1600/pumpkin%2B11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wS7gsQmcGiM/VE3thIOayII/AAAAAAAASh0/OWZJCJa-ROo/s1600/pumpkin%2B11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3SKWgFRx-u4/VE3thYF3zRI/AAAAAAAASgk/-mM_KvhfR5E/s1600/pumpkin%2B12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3SKWgFRx-u4/VE3thYF3zRI/AAAAAAAASgk/-mM_KvhfR5E/s1600/pumpkin%2B12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Then they are ready to go! <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wPveY2eCDfk/VE34hcbuKlI/AAAAAAAASiI/FuW7YeQycTc/s1600/pumpkin%2B15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wPveY2eCDfk/VE34hcbuKlI/AAAAAAAASiI/FuW7YeQycTc/s1600/pumpkin%2B15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-31774493434622254712014-10-14T02:41:00.001-07:002014-10-21T15:54:42.379-07:00Mom and Me Giveaway (CLOSED) I'm excited to announce: <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7cCg58BqT0/VDzs1K78bPI/AAAAAAAASQc/P2T45SHoqe4/s1600/October%2BGiveaway%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7cCg58BqT0/VDzs1K78bPI/AAAAAAAASQc/P2T45SHoqe4/s1600/October%2BGiveaway%2B.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
8 wonderful shops are contributing to a total of over $325 worth of prizes for one lucky winner! Giveaway begins NOW (well technically 2am 10/14/14) and ends in one week at midnight 10/21/14. US Residence only. <br />
<br />
All prizes are gift certificates so the lucky winner gets to go on a $325 shopping spree. Take a peek and enter to win! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bellezamia.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Belleza Mia Jewelry</a> ($100 shop credit)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aGMwQWYOSO8/VDzsXMtJ-zI/AAAAAAAASPc/oBKrN2mIvU8/s1600/BM%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aGMwQWYOSO8/VDzsXMtJ-zI/AAAAAAAASPc/oBKrN2mIvU8/s1600/BM%2BCollage.jpg" height="208" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/candyargyle/sold?ref=shopinfo_sales_leftnav" target="_blank">Candy Argyle Designs</a> ($30 shop credit) </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QaUYaOh_QwI/VDzsXE4Q3yI/AAAAAAAASPg/6JOr7OYz2o4/s1600/CAD%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QaUYaOh_QwI/VDzsXE4Q3yI/AAAAAAAASPg/6JOr7OYz2o4/s1600/CAD%2BCollage.jpg" height="208" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://freshlypicked.com/" target="_blank">Freshly Picked </a>(one pair of moccs valued at $60)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-crVImlPrkVY/VDzsXCqk68I/AAAAAAAASPk/--j6dVWjHlg/s1600/FP%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-crVImlPrkVY/VDzsXCqk68I/AAAAAAAASPk/--j6dVWjHlg/s1600/FP%2BCollage.jpg" height="208" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://melodysteele.jamberrynails.net/shop" target="_blank">Jamberry with Melody</a> ($30 credit) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UJEtf5m6Wt0/VDzsXkUx4CI/AAAAAAAASQQ/_RB2OEA_DwM/s1600/Jamberry%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UJEtf5m6Wt0/VDzsXkUx4CI/AAAAAAAASQQ/_RB2OEA_DwM/s1600/Jamberry%2BCollage.jpg" height="209" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://riverbabethreads.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">River Babe Threads</a> ($25 shop credit) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o53oyr3gjbA/VDzsX-GU3cI/AAAAAAAASPo/8j_GnVbnsv4/s1600/R%2Bcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o53oyr3gjbA/VDzsX-GU3cI/AAAAAAAASPo/8j_GnVbnsv4/s1600/R%2Bcollage.jpg" height="209" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.silentpoetryarts.etsy.com/" target="_blank"> Silent Poetry Arts </a>($25 shop credit) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOsHTTmoUes/VDzsYPv82QI/AAAAAAAASPs/1YG5ruRdQSI/s1600/SPA%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOsHTTmoUes/VDzsYPv82QI/AAAAAAAASPs/1YG5ruRdQSI/s1600/SPA%2BCollage.jpg" height="209" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVinylCompany" target="_blank">The Vinyl Company</a> ($30 shop credit)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yy3dD23yJP4/VDzsYbMWRyI/AAAAAAAASPw/ZZIRPtEQlQ8/s1600/TVC%2Bcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yy3dD23yJP4/VDzsYbMWRyI/AAAAAAAASPw/ZZIRPtEQlQ8/s1600/TVC%2Bcollage.jpg" height="176" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://hellototes.storenvy.com/" target="_blank">Hello Totes! </a>($30 shop credit) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WXbvihWD3b0/VDzsYoA2gSI/AAAAAAAASP0/FqUl4wSJu2o/s1600/Totes%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WXbvihWD3b0/VDzsYoA2gSI/AAAAAAAASP0/FqUl4wSJu2o/s1600/Totes%2BCollage.jpg" height="209" width="640" /></a></div>
Good luck!!!<br />
<br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f78e0d935/" id="rc-f78e0d935" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And our winner is Ally Menlove Drishinski!!!! Congratulations!!! You should be contacted shortly about the deets.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you everyone for participating and stay tuned, we will be doing another one next month too!
</span><script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script>Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com115tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-42074448879985435822014-10-12T03:52:00.001-07:002014-10-12T03:56:49.261-07:00Freshly Picked ReviewI remember seeing Freshly Picked on Shark Tank when it first aired. I thought their moccasins were very cute but honestly I didn't think too much of it because I had a 4 year old and we weren't sure if another baby was on the way.<br />
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Fast forward to over a year later when we find ourselves with a third boy and all the sudden it seems like moccasins are everywhere! So many people I know had them, LOVED them and recommended them so I was pumped when I had the opportunity to review a pair.<br />
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My hubby is more conservative than I am so I chose their <a href="http://freshlypicked.com/collections/all-items/products/stone-suede-limited-edition-moccasins" target="_blank">stone suade</a> pair because I figured he'd like them. When they got here I was so excited to get them on his little feet, I could barely contain myself. It took a little bit of work to get them on him mostly because he is the worlds biggest squirmer and kept flexing his toes making it a little tricky but I got them on and they fit perfectly with a little room to grow. <br />
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To be honest my little guy hates shoes and socks so whenever we put them on he would pull them off within seconds. Because of that he has been barefoot pretty much since he was born. What I wanted to see is if he would be able to pull these off because if any baby could get out of them, it was him. Well, he gave it a good solid effort for about two minutes then gave up. Hallelujah! <br />
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I then put Sir Squirms-a-lot on the floor so he could play. Unfortunately his stinker older brothers had been eating blueberries in the living room and had left a couple on the floor (it was one of the few times I am glad we have a dark carpet!) Of course the berries were crawled right over. It took a minute for me to realize what happened and I took the shoes off but they then had several blueberries stuck to them. Mama was not happy one bit. I set to work immediately to get them cleaned up. I was really really nervous because they were new, I hadn't even photographed them to review and I didn't know if the stains would come out. After a little bit of scrubbing though, they came out! Three big stains areas where the berries were and you couldn't even tell after it was done.<br />
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Obviously I was impressed. One thing this blueberry indecent made me realize is that I wish I would have gotten the regular leather over the suade because they probably would have been easier to wash off. But all turned out well otherwise. Next time! <br />
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Overall I love them. They are very well made, he can't get out, they clean well and they are comfortable and cute. Can't beat that! <br />
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Stay tuned, tomorrow you will have the opportunity to win your own pair along with numerous other fun prizes!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Please note that compensation in the form of a "free" product does NOT
effect my opinions in any way. I strive to provide 100% honest feedback
about the products being reviewed.</span><br />
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Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-22419530978746414992014-09-26T20:21:00.000-07:002014-09-26T23:39:19.165-07:00Hanging Pin Cushion TutorialI've been redoing my craft room, trying to make it more functional as well as something I will love looking at, considering I'm at my desk a lot. I came up with these hanging pincushions because I knew I needed more on the wall and less on my desk. Also I knew I would need something for pins and needles because I use them a lot at random times. So this is what I came up with!<br />
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First I took three canning rings we had around the house, these are the wide mouth ones.<br />
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Then I spray painted them black. You can do whatever color suits your fancy. <br />
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Using cardboard I traced (and cut out) a circle that fit perfectly in the ring. This will be the back so you'll want it to be a snug fit. I realized afterwards it probably would have worked just using the flat canning lid. Oh well too late but if anyone out there gives it a try let me know how it works!<br />
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Gather supplies. You'll need your ring, cardboard backing, a piece of scrap fabric, and a bit of batting.<br />
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I put the ring upside down with the back facing toward me. On top of that I put my piece of fabric. It should be aprox 6x6 inches. I just estimated. The batting was about 5.5x5.5<br />
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I then began to gather the batting and the fabric in a circular motion.<br />
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Keep gathering until all sides are gathered and it fits perfectly in the ring. Just don't let go quite yet!<br />
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Take thread and needle to secure the fabric. Don't worry, it's doesn't have to look pretty, it will be covered. Just make sure it's sewn enough so it won't come undone.<br />
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Put your cardboard backing in. I secured it with some hot glue, so it wouldn't come out.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8_SKgoUkb4E/S83Meq5RR6I/AAAAAAAABT0/HVxk3GpoqhM/s1600/Pins+9.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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Take a 3" piece of ribbon and attached it to the back with hot glue. I love me some hot glue.<br />
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Now they are done and ready to hang. I just used some clear push pins, I bet you can go fancier if you'd like. I was just doing my best to work with what I had around the house. <br />
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Pretty and functional. I love taking stuff off my desk and putting them on the walls!<br />
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Happy crafting! Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-48140520102806073752014-09-11T12:23:00.001-07:002014-09-11T12:23:13.062-07:00Birthstone of the Month - September<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: center;">Sapphire</span></h3>
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Sapphires have been popular for ages. Part of it's popularity is due to beautiful color. Sapphires are most often found in a deep blue color but can come in other colors, like pink, yellow, or white. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/80966164/blue-sapphire-crystal-earrings-wedding?ref=related-3" target="_blank">Blue Sapphire Earrings</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157414693/pink-sapphire-gemstone-earrings-oxidized?ref=shop_home_active_10&ga_search_query=september" target="_blank">Pink Sapphire Earrings</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157330457/september-birthsone-necklace-blue?ref=shop_home_active_9&ga_search_query=september" target="_blank">September Birthstone Necklace</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166690254/blue-sapphire-ring-gemstone-ring?ref=shop_home_active_6&ga_search_query=september" target="_blank">Sapphire Ring</a></div>
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It is also a popular stone because of it's strength. It is a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, which is only one below a diamond, so it's a resilient stone that is easy to take care of. </div>
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Lapis</h3>
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Lapis is another gemstone that is used as a birthstone for September. Often Lapis have gold veins or flecks in the blue color. Most often they are found in Afghanistan and ancient Greeks and Romans highly valued Lapis stones because of the beautiful color. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196527419/lapis-lazuli-earrings-sterling-silver?ref=shop_home_active_5&ga_search_query=september" target="_blank">Lapis Stud Earrings</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164702137/clearance-lapis-lazuli-ring-teardrop-cut?ref=shop_home_active_1&ga_search_query=september" target="_blank">Teardrop Ring</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/163171261/lapis-lazuli-necklace-september?ref=shop_home_active_11&ga_search_query=september" target="_blank">Lapis Necklace</a></div>
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Either of the stones for September are memorable choices. They bring such beautiful, rich color to whatever they are paired with. I love the pink sapphires and the gold that is in the Lapis. Do you have a preference? </div>
Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-76188495544806475732014-08-21T10:00:00.000-07:002014-10-12T23:45:03.748-07:00You Can Do Hard Things!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Life is hard sometimes. There isn't much too it other than that. Sometimes you are asked to do hard things, other times hard things seem just thrown at you without warning. It's tough and uncomfortable but there is an upside, it is, that you can handle it.<br />
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I don't know about you guys but sometimes it seems like the hard won't stop coming, and I've come to the conclusion that it probably won't. It will just keep throwing itself at me. It's the time of year that comes with a lot of change, scary change for some.<br />
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If it helps, know that somebody believes in you. I believe in you. This guy believes in you too.<br />
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Now what you need is to believe in yourself. Here's a reminder if you need. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111649024/i-can-do-hard-things-necklace?ref=listing-0" target="_blank">I Can Do Hard Things Necklace</a></div>
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What hard or scary things are you dealing with? </div>
<br />Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-87133168202900719062014-08-07T13:38:00.000-07:002014-08-07T13:38:23.442-07:00Birthstone of the Month: August I always felt a little bad for people whose birthdays are in August, or more so their parents. It leaves all kinds of things up in the air like when to start school. It would stress me out as a parent. This year though I'm having a baby this month. There is a bright spot, the birthstone for August is bright, happy peridot.<br />
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<a href="https://img0.etsystatic.com/020/0/5634743/il_570xN.498172950_lven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/020/0/5634743/il_570xN.498172950_lven.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/61847144/infinity-necklace-birthstone-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_5" target="_blank">Infinity Necklace with Peridot</a></div>
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Peridot</h3>
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Peridot is one of only a few gems that only come in one color. For peridot that color is green. The green tones can range from yellow-ish to browni-ish tinted but will always be distinguishable as green. I love the most common colored ones; a light, bright green. </div>
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<a href="https://img1.etsystatic.com/019/0/5634743/il_570xN.480648341_34kq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="peridot stud earrings" border="0" height="425" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/019/0/5634743/il_570xN.480648341_34kq.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/156963456/stud-earrings-round-peridot-gemstone-and?ref=listing-0" target="_blank">Peridot Stud Earrings </a></div>
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One of the things I love best about the peridot is to know where it comes from. They are made from minerals that are found in magma that comes to the surface of the earth from volcanoes. Among other places it is mined in Hawaii, Arizona, and New Mexico. Another source of peridots is meteorites. </div>
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<a href="https://img1.etsystatic.com/016/0/5634743/il_570xN.465622143_8d5u.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="peridot gold drop earrings" border="0" height="426" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/016/0/5634743/il_570xN.465622143_8d5u.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/152946502/peridot-green-gemstone-and-gold-simple?ref=listing-1" target="_blank">Peridot Green Gemstone and Gold Drop Earrings</a></div>
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The bright color of peridot is great for summer, which makes it fitting for August birthstone. It is also nice to wear because the color doesn't change when brought from sunlight to artificial light. The same pretty green will still show no matter the setting or situation. It can easily pair with other stones on a personalized necklace. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0PxoBCjkmEA/U-PidZdYvDI/AAAAAAAADpw/oTwQYNeSUgY/s1600/Fotor0807143153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Family Tree Necklace Silver Pea " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0PxoBCjkmEA/U-PidZdYvDI/AAAAAAAADpw/oTwQYNeSUgY/s1600/Fotor0807143153.jpg" height="640" title="" width="534" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/162577056/family-tree-necklace-mothers-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_3" target="_blank">Family Tree Necklace</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/158935537/silver-pea-pod-necklace-birthstone?ref=shop_home_active_17" target="_blank">Silver Pea Necklace</a></div>
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Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-5383025787448793432014-07-15T11:00:00.000-07:002014-07-16T09:33:58.019-07:00Name That Tune: The Baby Shower GameI have mixed feelings about baby shower games. I used to be vehemently against them, I thought a good shower was good food, good friends, and good conversations. But that was when I still lived far away from any family, my bridal and baby shower were just friends and we could just have a more casual time. Since then I've realized that a lot of showers include family and friends, who don't necessarily know one another. Games can be a great way to break the ice in situations like that. Also, who doesn't like to win a little prize?<br />
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Recently I needed a baby shower game for my sister-in-law. In search of something fun I came up with the idea for playing "Name That Tune" using songs with baby (or some similar word like babe) in the title.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LveZoZCsEI/U7xxb5ab2_I/AAAAAAAADBg/5t9oykFXAhc/s1600/baby+name+tune.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LveZoZCsEI/U7xxb5ab2_I/AAAAAAAADBg/5t9oykFXAhc/s1600/baby+name+tune.jpg" height="320" width="249" /></a></div>
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There are two simple ways to play "Name That Tune" in a group setting. One is to play the song and when someone knows it they yell out the answer and get points, you then go onto the next song. The other way is to play a 15-20 second clip of each song and people write down their guesses. Since I didn't know how many people would be playing and some of the songs were pretty hard I opted for the second.<br />
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I used the list of songs from <a href="http://www.playpartypin.com/2014/04/three-great-baby-shower-games.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>, but I took out any my husband and I had never heard of. I downloaded and cut clips of all the songs, making some harder than others to figure out. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GK4CpFU2LSI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Here</a> are my 33 song clips.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/GK4CpFU2LSI" width="420"></iframe>
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I decided to award 1 point for the song title, and 2 for knowing the artist, so each song would be worth a total of 3 points. You can use my <a href="https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1UGY23kDMJXxwYMGLE2fk2QIDKtTnagg62RdAXw968cY/edit" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">score card</a> for your own game.<br />
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Of course if you are putting the game together you will need the answers. So here are the songs I used:<br />
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<li>I Got You Babe - Sonny and Cher</li>
<li>Baby, It's Cold Outside - Johnny Mercer and Margaret Whiting </li>
<li>Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On - Mel McDaniel </li>
<li>You're Having my Baby - Paul Anka</li>
<li>Santa Baby - Earth Kitt</li>
<li>I Can't Get Enough of You Baby - Smash Mouth</li>
<li>Don't Worry Baby - The Beach Boys</li>
<li>There Goes My Baby - The Drifters</li>
<li>Baby, I Need Your Lovin' - The Four Tops</li>
<li>Be My Baby - The Ronettes </li>
<li>Ice Ice Baby - Vanilla Ice</li>
<li>We're Having a Baby - Desi Arnaz </li>
<li>All She Wants (Is Another Baby) - Ace of Base</li>
<li>Babe - The Styx</li>
<li>Baby, Baby - Amy Grant</li>
<li>Baby Beluga - Raffi </li>
<li>Baby Girl - Sugarland</li>
<li>Baby - Justin Bieber</li>
<li>Baby Love - Diana Ross and the Supremes</li>
<li>Baby, Now That I've Found You - </li>
<li>Baby, I Love Your Way - Big Mountain</li>
<li>Born to Be My Baby - Bon Jovi</li>
<li>... Baby One More Time - Britney Spears </li>
<li>Runaway Baby - Bruno Mars</li>
<li>Come On Over Baby - Christina Aguilera </li>
<li>American Baby - Dave Matthews Band</li>
<li>Ain't That Lovin You Baby - Elvis Presley </li>
<li>Baby Elephant Walk - Henry Mancini </li>
<li>Baby Workout - Jackie Wilson</li>
<li>Always Be My Baby - Mariah Carey </li>
<li>My Baby Loves Me - Martina McBride</li>
<li>Hey Baby - No Doubt</li>
<li>Oh Me, Oh My Sweet Baby - George Strait </li>
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Have fun playing this game!</div>
Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-7500231655824521562014-07-10T12:19:00.000-07:002014-07-16T09:34:06.465-07:00Birthstone of the Month - JulyMy most favorite color in the world is red. It is so vibrant, it seems to scream passion at me. Not just passionate in the romantic way but also passionate about life. I just love it, which means I love July's birthstone, the Ruby.<br />
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Ruby</h3>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w3ca0fE8V6Q/U77mn_IuemI/AAAAAAAADEo/Y7GEemxMtkM/s1600/ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ruby rings" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w3ca0fE8V6Q/U77mn_IuemI/AAAAAAAADEo/Y7GEemxMtkM/s1600/ring.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/159305543/july-birthstone-ring-red-ruby-gemstone?ref=listing-2" target="_blank">Oval Cut Ring</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176387373/red-ruby-ring-july-birthstone-ring?ref=listing-1" target="_blank">Square Cut Ring</a></div>
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Rubies are super durable, a 9 on the hardness scale for gems, the only stronger ones are diamonds and moissonite. Along with their strength they also have amazing color, red. To qualify as a Ruby they have to meet a min of red saturation, otherwise they are classified as pink sapphires. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-86-qZPT3nqE/U77m7ddixPI/AAAAAAAADEw/BC6DwVvc_IE/s1600/necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ruby necklace" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-86-qZPT3nqE/U77m7ddixPI/AAAAAAAADEw/BC6DwVvc_IE/s1600/necklace.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157320802/july-birthsone-necklace-red-ruby?ref=listing-5" target="_blank">Ruby Necklace</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/63462450/ruby-gemstone-necklace-sterling-silver?ref=listing-6" target="_blank">Leaf Necklace</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111648862/red-ruby-gemstone-necklace-oxidized?ref=listing-0" target="_blank">Teardrop Necklace</a></div>
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Because Rubies are so tough and durable they are easy to take care of. You can clean them with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. </div>
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What is your favorite color? Do you own jewelry in that color?</div>
Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-36649315773133568782014-06-19T08:00:00.000-07:002014-06-25T08:49:18.331-07:00Birthstone of the Month - JuneJune has a few options for birthstones, all beautiful, but since one of them, <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); font-family: Lora; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">Alexandrite, is one of the rarest and most expensive gems, it isn't used much anymore. The other two, pearls and moonstones, are more common in jewelry. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NrRTFs_D4Ik/U6CkAeAhyBI/AAAAAAAACsE/4AJKhqUGVwI/s1600/pearls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pearl necklaces" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NrRTFs_D4Ik/U6CkAeAhyBI/AAAAAAAACsE/4AJKhqUGVwI/s1600/pearls.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/55337239/freshwater-pearl-necklace-sterling?ref=shop_home_active_2&ga_search_query=pearl" target="_blank">Freshwater Pearl Necklace</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/43980429/pearl-necklace-antique-brass-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_14&ga_search_query=pearls" target="_blank">Pearl Drop Necklace</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/65730664/initial-necklace-handstamped-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_6&ga_search_query=pearls" target="_blank">Initial Necklace</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Lora;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); line-height: 21px;">As I have said before, I love pearls. I think they are truly classic. They make me feel pretty without feeling over the top. They have been popular stones in jewelry since the Roman Empire. I don't think you can go wrong with pearls. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KJPytwusLRA/U6CkaCuX7HI/AAAAAAAACsM/olum1T7nNWE/s1600/pearls+again.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pearl jewelry, ring, earrings" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KJPytwusLRA/U6CkaCuX7HI/AAAAAAAACsM/olum1T7nNWE/s1600/pearls+again.jpg" height="480" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167013132/june-birthstone-ring-pearl-ring-gold?ref=shop_home_active_7&ga_search_query=pearls" target="_blank">Pearl Ring</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110949788/freshwater-pearl-earrings-oxidized?ref=shop_home_active_9&ga_search_query=pearls" target="_blank">Freshwater Pearl Earrings</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Lora; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); line-height: 21px;">Moonstone</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Lora;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); line-height: 21px;">Have you ever looked at a moonstone closely? The colors in it catch the light and sometimes make them almost seem to glow. Moonstones are stronger stones than pearls, making them perfect for jewelry that you will wear often. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ifqUagdCGAA/U6CldrL2ERI/AAAAAAAACsY/4spXdPA8oDM/s1600/moonstones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="moonstone earrings, moonstone square cut ring" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ifqUagdCGAA/U6CldrL2ERI/AAAAAAAACsY/4spXdPA8oDM/s1600/moonstones.jpg" height="306" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/150264990/moonstone-gemstone-earrings-oxidized?ref=shop_home_active_2&ga_search_query=moonstone" target="_blank">Moonstone Earrings</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164584326/clearance-moonstone-gemstone-ring-bezel?ref=shop_home_active_1&ga_search_query=moonstone" target="_blank">Moonstone Square Cut Ring</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Lora;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); line-height: 21px;">Do you have a preference between moonstones or pearls? Which would you choose?</span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); font-family: Lora; line-height: 21px; text-align: center;"> </span></div>
Emily Hayeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17790693435551913440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7629365781620075521.post-18209351378047903532014-06-04T13:32:00.001-07:002015-04-08T01:08:41.001-07:0010 Baby Products I Wish I had with My First (or Second!) Baby<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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It seems like there are so many baby products out there, it's kind of crazy actually. When you think about it 100 years ago and for thousands of years before that, babies mostly just needed their moms and not much more than that.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2KNbWx4t7nE/U47c1qzjhwI/AAAAAAAAPbY/c11qCHUHTCQ/s1600/10+Baby+Products+I+Wish+I+Had+With+My+First+Baby+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="products i wish i had with my baby" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2KNbWx4t7nE/U47c1qzjhwI/AAAAAAAAPbY/c11qCHUHTCQ/s1600/10+Baby+Products+I+Wish+I+Had+With+My+First+Baby+2.jpg" height="640" title="" width="426" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Onesie is handmade by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TinyBabyTimes?ref=pr_shop_more">Tiny Baby Times</a></span></div>
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Fast forward to today and you can find stores full of things for baby. While I know none of these things are really important or necessary I have personally found they have made things just a bit easier, because hey, motherhood is hard enough as it is!</div>
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These are some of my favorite items I have found and come to love with baby boy #3 that I wish I would either invested in or known about with my first. Better late than never I suppose. A lot seem a bit on the spendier side but I was gifted a number of items and also didn't have to buy many of the 'essentials' (clothing, bouncer, crib, stroller...) because my guy has two older brothers. Hello hand me downs! Also these are definitely the items I plan on keeping so I can either use again if we have #4 or that I can pass on to my sister whenever she starts having kids. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Woombie Air</span> </b></span>– My first two boys love to be swaddled, no doubt.
But there came a time when those little hands began to pop out and more and more they began to wake themselves up. Now with this hefty 10 pounder it came much earlier, like
at a few weeks instead of months. So I found this and LOVED it. The fabric is really soft and very stretchy. I also liked that there was the mesh in the front so he wouldn't get too hot. The first night
he used it he went from 3 hours to 7 in a row. My mom thought I was crazy
because it does look like a baby straight jacket but once in it he loved it and
slept so much better. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--b1EPmCF8xc/U3xr_5LaQsI/AAAAAAAAPX8/D3tt2K35s3w/s1600/51hS9-MW3xL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="woombie swaddler" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--b1EPmCF8xc/U3xr_5LaQsI/AAAAAAAAPX8/D3tt2K35s3w/s1600/51hS9-MW3xL.jpg" height="400" title="" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Woombie-Ventilated-Swaddle-Choose-Newborn/dp/B00D9XLW66/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1400659066&sr=8-1&keywords=woombie+air">Woombie Air </a></span></div>
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<b>White Noise Machine </b>– Oh how I wish I
had this with my first. He was a hard one, not just because he was my
first but because he refused a pacifier and just plain struggled getting
and staying asleep. There were lots of tears coming from all in the house. For baby #2 I had a cd of a
washing machine which I felt helped him sleep so much better but it
eventually scratched, skipped or the cd would end which of course
woke him up. So I decided to go all out and get this white noise
machine, the
Dohm Sound Machine which I found to be rated as one of the best and I
absolutely love, love, love it. It drowns out his two loud older brothers
and
calms him down right away. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_CsC06-I1U/U3xr_-HTltI/AAAAAAAAPYA/ypHCRyGw8t8/s1600/717JmXckznL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="dohm sound machine" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_CsC06-I1U/U3xr_-HTltI/AAAAAAAAPYA/ypHCRyGw8t8/s1600/717JmXckznL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" title="" width="398" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Marpac-Dohm-DS-Speed-Sound-Conditioner/dp/B000KUHFGM/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1400659848&sr=8-2-fkmr0&keywords=hite+noise+machine">Dohm Sound Machine </a></span></div>
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<b>Ergo baby Carrier </b>– Oh why did I wait until baby #3 to get a
baby carrier?!?! I did some research and tried a few out but found this to be
one of the most recommended by friends. Also I hit the jackpot when a friend told me she saw a
new in box one at Goodwill for only $40 and then I had a $10 credit so it only
cost me $30. I use it almost daily and makes life so much easier. I barely even use a stroller with it. I’m sure there
are other great carriers out there but I am in love with this one. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v1oksgX1umk/U3xr_yam-hI/AAAAAAAAPYM/KsGojTuHYk4/s1600/71BgdSFtzPL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ergo baby carrier" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v1oksgX1umk/U3xr_yam-hI/AAAAAAAAPYM/KsGojTuHYk4/s1600/71BgdSFtzPL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" title="" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/ERGO-Baby-Carrier-Bundle-Joy/dp/B008GVGKPY/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1400660330&sr=8-4&keywords=ergo+carrier">Ergo Baby </a></span></div>
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<b>Adin and Anis Swaddle Blankets </b>– I love these and to me they are the best baby blankets, hands down. They have a much steeper price tag but they are definitely worth it because you can use it for so much.
For burp cloths, a nursing cover and of course to swaddle. One of the reasons I
like them so much is because they are bigger than your traditional baby blanket
making sure baby is swaddled securely. It is a very lightweight and
breathable fabric so you don’t have to worry about baby overheating. They are also pretty cute. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Also as he has gotten older he now has 4 blankies he loves to sleep with instead of one so if we were to lose one of his lovies (which he can now not sleep without) we won't be freaking out trying to find it. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AVDO7hBpcmM/U3xsAcfOCsI/AAAAAAAAPYI/pzt5OKh_oXI/s1600/81NGaDXOXbL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lightweight swaddle blankets" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AVDO7hBpcmM/U3xsAcfOCsI/AAAAAAAAPYI/pzt5OKh_oXI/s1600/81NGaDXOXbL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" title="" width="272" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dbaby-products&field-keywords=aden%20%26%20anais%20blanket">Adin and Anis Blankets </a></span></div>
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<b>Nosefrida Nasal Aspiratior</b>
– My little man got sick the
second week of being home. Then again the sixth week because it was cold season and his
big brothers brought home plenty of germs and couldn't help but snuggle
(and infect) their little bro. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
right? Again this
is one of those products that my mom and husband looked at me like I’m
was a
loon because you literally suck the snot out of baby’s nose through a
tube
(with a filter of course) but while it was weird at first I was able to
get his
nose cleared out faster and without as many tears. Also I liked that I
could
take it apart, see everything and clean it unlike some of those other
‘nose
suckers’ that you have no idea what’s in there. Ewwww. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wq1tzM-liXc/U3xsAk6rm5I/AAAAAAAAPYQ/eSNKr9adkWA/s1600/81WVk3wjikL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="aspiratior" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wq1tzM-liXc/U3xsAk6rm5I/AAAAAAAAPYQ/eSNKr9adkWA/s1600/81WVk3wjikL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nosefrida-The-Snotsucker-Nasal-Aspirator/dp/B00171WXII/ref=sr_1_1?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1400660597&sr=1-1&keywords=nosefrida"> Nosefrida Aspirator</a></span></div>
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<b>Columbia Diaper Backpack</b> - I bought a older version which was all black. I had other diaper bags
with my other guys but they were all over the shoulder and let me tell
you, a backpack version is so handy. You
just sling it over and you're hands free. Whatever the diaper bag I
would definitely recommend a backpack of any kind. I almost went with a Petunia Picklebottom but they are much bigger (and spendier!) and I found I really liked this
particular bag because it is slimmer. Being on baby #3 I've come to
realize I didn't really need to take quite as many things around with me
as I usually did. My diaper bag has 4-5 diapers, wipes, some toys, a spare
set of cloths, my nursing cover and has lots of room to spare. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cJtKlK85BpY/U3xyUJrKeZI/AAAAAAAAPZE/Yk0SOxnCgiA/s1600/61xvOK6bzrL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="diaper bag. diaper backpack, columbia" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cJtKlK85BpY/U3xyUJrKeZI/AAAAAAAAPZE/Yk0SOxnCgiA/s1600/61xvOK6bzrL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Columbia-Trekster-Navy-Blue/dp/B00D74F0CO/ref=sr_1_1?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1400662335&sr=1-1&keywords=columbia+diaper+backpack"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Columbia Diaper Backpack</span></a></div>
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<b>A Good Nursing Bra - </b>What a difference a good bra makes. With my first I wore a cheap wireless bra then with #2 a friend who was my size loaned me her top of the line ones. They made me instantly feel so much better about myself, feeling 'contained' and put together. So for this time around I went to Nordstroms where she got them, where I NEVER shop at because I'm a cheap-o but knew it would make a huge difference in how I felt so was willing to pay the hefty price tag.<br />
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I went in on a Saturday afternoon and they were busy but found someone to do a fitting. She said that nothing would fit me right (I'm a larger gal) and she recommended getting a bra then having them alter it to make it a nursing bra. So I did. When I went to get it I found it was TERRIBLE. I knew it wouldn't work at all so I went back. This time I went in the middle of a slow time and got the most amazing sales lady who, despite the fact that she had a models body, was the mother of 7 and this lady knew her nursing bras. She said she did not know what the other gal was thinking. She was a teenage looking girl who, thinking back, was not the best person to have fit me considering she probably didn't have children or understood what it was really like to nurse. This super mom of 7 found me this bra in my size. It is amazing and I love it. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFyC3NDnw50/U3x0ux8i_4I/AAAAAAAAPZQ/QzfvEULsKk0/s1600/_7501102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="nursing bra" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFyC3NDnw50/U3x0ux8i_4I/AAAAAAAAPZQ/QzfvEULsKk0/s1600/_7501102.jpg" height="400" title="" width="260" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/anita-international-underwire-nursing-bra/3009952?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=2375500&fashionColor=&resultback=456&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_2_B"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Anita Nursing Bra</span></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Milkies Milksavers</span></b></span> – Another new one for me that I thought I’d
try out for kicks and ended up loving. I found I leaked<b><span style="font-size: small;"> a lot w</span></b>hen feeding (like when you
feed on one side and the other leaks). Again, when I showed it to my husband he gave
me the ‘your crazy but I still love you’ look. You know the one. I tried it and
because of it I could usually get 2-3 ounces from a side each feeding instead
of having it be thrown away. I then saved it for later and had milk for a bottle without pumping. Genius.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8I-Pe5s8u4w/U3xsBPEhHtI/AAAAAAAAPYw/mkycvmBlnmU/s1600/MILKIES-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="milksavers" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8I-Pe5s8u4w/U3xsBPEhHtI/AAAAAAAAPYw/mkycvmBlnmU/s1600/MILKIES-2.jpg" height="400" title="" width="360" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.mymilkies.com/milksaver">Milkies Milksavers</a></span></div>
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<b>Madela Tender Care Hydro Gel Nursing Pads - </b>Nursing
is hard and very painful. I knew I wanted to do it again with #3 (I did
it for 3 months with one and 8 months with my other guy) and even having nursed before
it still hurt. A lot. I got lucky and when I was in the hospital a nurse gave
me a pack of these and they help me get through the rough part of
nursing. I would recommend them to anyone nursing. Extra tip, store
them in the refrigerator, you'll thank me. <b><br /></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M_pBcmCiVxA/U3x3Wvmpr_I/AAAAAAAAPZc/rQAtOO8hYag/s1600/5170WiAYpwL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="nursing pads" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M_pBcmCiVxA/U3x3Wvmpr_I/AAAAAAAAPZc/rQAtOO8hYag/s1600/5170WiAYpwL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" title="" width="400" /> </a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tender-Care-Hydrogel-Nursing-4-Pack/dp/B0011ECPA2"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Madela Nursing Pads </span></span></a></b></div>
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<b>Barefoot Dreams Cardigan</b> – That same lady who fitted me for a bra said she wanted to show me something that she wished she had with her little ones and had several of. I felt it and the moment I touched it I fell in love. This sweater is SO
soft! Normally I wouldn’t spend so much but I was 8 ½ months pregnant, nothing
fit and I wanted to treat myself to<u> something</u>, <i>anything </i>because even shoes were out because my feet were so swollen. I am so glad I did because I pretty
much wore this for 3 months straight and still do often. It is made out of a super soft bamboo and is kind of stretchy (but not too much). The sides can wrap all
the way around you and baby so you can snuggle close. I also used it as a nursing
cover when I couldn’t grab mine, it made a great cover up when I had to run and
get the door and I needed to cover up quick and my older
boys also loved to get inside of it and have it wrap around all three of us. They
call it my snuggle sweater and my middle son regularly sneaks off with it so he can sleep with it at night.<br />
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Tip: My friend who also loves these sweaters says they go on sale after spring so keep an eye out. I'm actually looking at getting another one in a different color just for me! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cgKpCxoseMA/U3xsBUSJJSI/AAAAAAAAPYY/rMNijuwxABk/s1600/_8810865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="barefoot dreamer cardigan" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cgKpCxoseMA/U3xsBUSJJSI/AAAAAAAAPYY/rMNijuwxABk/s1600/_8810865.jpg" height="400" title="" width="260" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/sr?origin=keywordsearch&keyword=barefoot+dreams+cardigan&contextualcategoryid=0"> Barefoot Dreams Cardigan </a></span></div>
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I am so thankful to live in such a great day and age where we have these luxuries because, for me, with my kiddos, they made this mamas life just a little bit easier. <br />
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Disclaimer: I did not receive free product or compensation for any of the items on this list. I just loved them and wanted to share! These are the things I would recommend to my sister or close girlfriends if they were expecting their first, or any baby for that matter! Kendra Goodrichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11406128609049210746noreply@blogger.com10