tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-322413392024-03-12T02:34:15.756-05:00Much Ado About NothingShelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.comBlogger394125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-54487229321833760052012-11-13T09:11:00.000-06:002012-11-13T09:11:38.254-06:00Joyous Birthday WishesThis day, 14 years ago, I gave birth to my second child. For three days, this daughter of mine remained nameless, Wes and I struggling to agree on a fitting name. Finally, when the time came to fill out the official birth certificate form, we negotiated an agreement: Abigail-"my father's joy"- agreeable only if the middle name was Faith.<br />
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Wes was convinced our baby girl would not like the name Abigail, and thought Faith was a great back up name for when she expressed this inevitable disdain.<br />
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It's funny now to imagine calling our sweet Abbee "Faith." Our sweet Abbee who now stands 5' 8 1/2" tall and is too old to be comfortable with my disclosing her weight!<br />
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The grin she carried plastered upon her face as a toddler is still intact. It blesses me daily.<br />
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Abigail has lived up to the name that spoke of joy. She not only delights the heart of her father, but fills her mother's heart as well. This joy bundled up in one Abigail Faith is contagious! Her laughter often erupts, lifting a mundane day and spreading to all those around her.<br />
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Happy birthday, my precious Abigail Faith! May your fourteenth year be extraordinary as you continue to mature into the beautiful young lady God is shaping. And may the joy you exude continue to bless all who are privileged experience it!Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-55021058217925545842012-06-26T14:09:00.000-05:002012-06-26T14:09:39.488-05:00An Excellent Start to a Promising Week...Yesterday morning at 9:15 am, I met my SIL Leigh halfway between her house and ours so that Jordan could go to camp with their student group.<br />
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We were at James and Leigh's house all weekend. Emma and JW had spent last week there attending VBS, and the rest of the kids and I drove in Friday night to spend the weekend. The plan was to pick up the latter two and drop off Abbee and a niece who were planning on attending camp. Jordan had opted out of camp for reasons that really don't matter at this point, but changed her mind ON SUNDAY.<br />
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That is why we left their house Sunday evening, and returned halfway Monday morning with JP all packed up!<br />
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Around 6:30 PM, I received a text message that left me scrambling to find someone to watch the littles as it was looking as though more driving was in my future. A call around 7:30 from James confirmed my suspicions.<br />
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At 8:00 PM, I was headed to the campgrounds to PICK JORDAN BACK UP, after receiving word from the camp nurse that JP had been with her all afternoon running fever, feeling nauseated, and having severe abdominal pain. The nurse was willing to let her wait it out until morning, but was slightly concerned that Jordan was having an appendicitis attack. So, with my super amazing friend Jenny (who volunteered to go with me), I was headed south trying to decide if when I got her, I should bring her home or to the hospital.<br />
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At 11:15 PM, we walked into the ER as had been decided after about 50 phone calls from Wes who was simultaneously consulting the Google while calling at 2 minute intervals to get a clear description of Jordan's symptoms and pain.<br />
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Around midnight, the nurse informed us that the Dr. would most likely want a stomach x-ray to rule out constipation (the apparent most common cause of abdominal pain in children!) and also a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy (which is now standard procedure in females over the age of TEN who are complaining of stomach pain. Yes, you read that correctly!) She added that it shouldn't take long since they weren't very busy and felt as though the Dr. would be in very shortly.<br />
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At that point, my gut told me that I should put her clothes back on her and take her home because, I could rule out constipation by the fact that she had spent the entire day having diarrhea and I could rule out pregnancy by many other facts that I won't articulate here!<br />
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Unfortunately, I was still slightly convinced by the Google research and the well-intentioned camp nurse that appendicitis was still a possibility, and you don't want to ere on the side of error on that one.<br />
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Around 2:00 AM or so, the doctor made an appearance and ordered some blood work and an IV to be administered over the course of the next hour with a possible second bag to follow depending on how JP's vitals responded to the first bag.<br />
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And, that, my friends, is why I crawled into bed at 4:00 AM with the peace of mind that can only come from a $200 co-pay and 4 1/2 hours in the ER.<br />
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Jordan's diagnosis: stomach flu along with dehydration.<br />
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The very best part of the entire story is something I imagine went down like this:<br />
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Jordan: "Hey, Abbee! I've had the squirts all morning and I think I'm about to puke... here... want my hotdog?"<br />
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Abbee: "ABSOLUTELY!!"<br />
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Jordan: "This slush is making me feel a little nauseated too... you want it?"<br />
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Abbee: "Heck Yeah!!"<br />
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I'm going to get Wes to consult the Google on the incubation time for the stomach flu. Unless the fact that Abbee will eat absolutely anything that's been dropped on the ground has given her a stomach of steel, I have a feeling I'll be on the road again soon!Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-40321833106946568832012-04-11T06:00:00.000-05:002012-04-11T06:00:05.321-05:00One Team, One Goal, One Mission... SIX!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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THESA Varsity Girls took their SIXTH National title and we were there to see it!</div>
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These girls are an amazing basketball team, playing against the best teams in the state of Texas during the season, and finishing with domination at the both the State and National Homeschool Tournaments!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWSKs5SebZzJ_2QEVBuZAbiRSIdBMzJewsAB5jaODdsEHPpjLU8h6fD6CShE6tpjOn_vo-HrxPVlUwSs8Wl_rqpoVAdTidCFvccK_M7wGtOG1jPRp7K2qRYb-ShfaZ5TNXfEA/s1600/HPIM3416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWSKs5SebZzJ_2QEVBuZAbiRSIdBMzJewsAB5jaODdsEHPpjLU8h6fD6CShE6tpjOn_vo-HrxPVlUwSs8Wl_rqpoVAdTidCFvccK_M7wGtOG1jPRp7K2qRYb-ShfaZ5TNXfEA/s320/HPIM3416.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
They were led by Moriah Jefferson (ranked as the #2 girl in the nation, #1 guard, and headed to UConn this summer on a full ride!). If you ever have the opportunity to watch this girl play, you should take it! She is an astounding point guard who can handle the ball with jaw-dropping dexterity!<br />
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While Mo is certainly a stud, this team of ballers has plenty of other talent on the floor as well as the bench!<br />
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They were a delight to watch!<br />
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Congrats, Riders! Well played indeed!<br />
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<br />Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-69694924667125306022012-04-02T06:00:00.000-05:002012-04-02T06:00:04.855-05:00THESA Riders Basketball... YAY-UH!<div style="text-align: left;">
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February AND March flew by in a whirl of BASKETBALL. </div>
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We spent the week before last in Springfield, Missouri, for the 2012 National Homeschool Basketball Tournament! Wes was unable to go, so the three of us had some serious quality time together. It was priceless!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbOT8BnB1TBN-2QHAbt6PBQ5_LGuMbw5xVUGEooqdJwAWYstFPSsBPeapRZbyyGlwJcqqDfgEVoUE8ffqcrvJGLnn2k6TywAHoY840ooGQ7aTgi4FMQaMraI4PXneBqDjpc42/s1600/HPIM3412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbOT8BnB1TBN-2QHAbt6PBQ5_LGuMbw5xVUGEooqdJwAWYstFPSsBPeapRZbyyGlwJcqqDfgEVoUE8ffqcrvJGLnn2k6TywAHoY840ooGQ7aTgi4FMQaMraI4PXneBqDjpc42/s320/HPIM3412.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
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These girls had a FANTASTIC year finishing THIRD in the state tournament, and SIXTH in the National Tournament! They played in the gold ball division (the highest division in their age group) and really did well. </div>
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Did I mention that all but ONE of their games was at 8:30 AM? YES. I SAID EIGHT THIRTY IN THE MORNING!</div>
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It always took them the first period to wake up! These girls are NOT MORNING PEOPLE! </div>
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A super sweet friend showed up to support (thanks, Emzy! :D), and here's what we got when we asked them to get up against the wall for a picture!<br />
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It was a long, exhausting, phenomenal week of more basketball than you could ever hope to see!! But, with a couple dozen Krispy Kremes and lots of laughs with friends, we managed to survive!<br />
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Both Baylee and Jordan got all-tournament nods at the state tourney, and Abbee took the Christian Character award at Nationals.<br />
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It has been a crazy couple of months, but I must admit that when the season FINALLY ended last Sunday, I had a touch of post basketball season blues. I'm sick like that.<br />
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Having some time off will be nice, but we are going to miss all of our basketball family!Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-512967023648213642012-03-15T07:55:00.000-05:002012-03-15T07:55:16.545-05:00Tired HeartIt's 7:30 AM and I have been awake for two hours.<br />
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TWO.<br />
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HOURS.<br />
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My sweet Emma took off on a road trip with some friends to reunite with her BFF Lexie!<br />
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Those two have face-timed every single day for the last three weeks or so planning which bags to bring, what necessities should be in each bag, and where to purchase the same exact word search books and sudoku puzzles so that, even though they will be in separate cars for their individual 8 hour treks, they will be doing the exact same things!<br />
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Seriously, Emma's excitement <b>could not be contained.</b><br />
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Until last night.<br />
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Around bedtime, of course, Emma began to come to terms with the gravity of the situation. When she arrives back home Sunday evening, I will be gone. The big girls and I are headed to a basketball tournament for the week, and Wes and the littles are staying behind.<br />
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Emma was struggling a bit with the 10 whole days that I won't see my mom thing! I rubbed her back while she sobbed into her pillow.<br />
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I assured her she didn't <b>HAVE</b> to go! ;)<br />
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Then, this morning as she snuggled up beside me AT 5:30 AM, she said...<br />
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<b>"I'm really excited now! That was just my tired heart talking last night!" </b><br />
And, with that, both her tired heart AND her tired little body said goodbye with an completely excited smile on her tired little face!Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-38675979383825939342012-03-09T09:58:00.000-06:002012-03-09T09:58:12.046-06:00Viral Videos and Baby GirlsI don't know if you've seen the KONY 2012 video floating around Facebook. It went viral in all of 10 minutes or something like that! It has also stirred up some controversy regarding the use of funds by the non-profit behind the video, Invisible Child.<div>
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None of this has much to do with my post except that Wednesday night, instead of going to Bible study like I usually do, I stayed home. I really had no valid excuse. I just didn't want to go. So, I didn't!</div>
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Instead, I lounged around and watched American Idol with my kids. (almost as spiritually enriching as Bible study, I know!)</div>
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Afterward, I was checking up on Jordan's FB activity when I noticed she had posted that KONY 2012 video. I asked her what that video was about, to which she replied, "You have to watch it!"</div>
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"I don't want to watch it. I just want you to tell me what it's about."</div>
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She grabbed my phone, and tapped the video so that it would begin playing.</div>
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That's when I noticed it's almost THIRTY MINUTES LONG!!</div>
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"I don't want to watch a 30 minute long video, Jordan! Just tell me what it's about!!"</div>
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In the meantime, the video began. And, Emma snuggled up beside me and watched as well.</div>
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In case you have no idea, the video sheds light on a man named Joseph Kony who for several of decades has kidnapped children across Africa to fight in his rebel army. It highlights, in particular, a Ugandan named Jacob who was a victim of Kony and watched as his brother was murdered right in front of him.</div>
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Heart wrenching doesn't begin to cover it.</div>
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Anyway, about mid-way through, the video froze up and we couldn't finish it.</div>
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I sent everyone to bed and headed that way myself.</div>
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About thirty minutes later, Abbee and Emma walked into my room. Abbee explained that Emma really needed to tell me something.</div>
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Emma had buried her face in my bed.</div>
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Once I convinced her to talk to me, I discovered she was sobbing.</div>
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She told me that she had just realized how selfish she is. She said she knew that she had so much and those kids have so little, and she didn't deserve to have such a good life when there were people whose lives were so tragic.</div>
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Then, she told me she wanted to know God. She wanted to really know him and she wanted him to help her not be so sinful.</div>
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Wes and I talked with her for a few minutes, and then I asked her if she wanted me to pray.</div>
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She said that <b>she</b> <b>wanted to pray</b>.</div>
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And then...</div>
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Emma, through sobs, confessed that she knew she was a sinner. She asked Jesus to forgive her and help her learn to follow him and trust him. She prayed for the Ugandan kids, and that God would help them too.</div>
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Here's the beautiful, awe-inspiring thing: <b>God used half of a viral You-Tube video to stir Emma's heart to repentance.</b> The Spirit worked in her and revealed to her her need for the cross, for the gospel. In that moment, I saw the mystery of the gospel manifest in the heart of my baby girl. <b>And, all I could do was praise Him.</b></div>
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The next morning, I asked Emma if she understood what had happened last night. She replied, <b>"I became a follower of Jesus."</b></div>
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I LOVE that she said "became." </div>
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Passive voice. </div>
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<b>Because SHE had NOTHING to do with it! </b></div>
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She was the <b>receiver</b> of the most precious gift: the gift of forgiveness and righteousness <b>given freely by the One who paid it all.</b></div>
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To God be the glory forever!</div>Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-49610493014892315472012-02-03T08:16:00.001-06:002012-02-03T08:16:33.026-06:00Here's Where the Rubber Meets the Road...<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us; we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be. </span></b><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>-C.S. Lewis</b></span></span></div>
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I saw this quote yesterday at <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2012/02/crushing-on-lewis.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+lifeingrace+%28lifeingrace%29&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">Life in Grace</a>. It pretty much sums up how I'm feeling after hearing that Wes will soon no longer have a job. </div>
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There is very little we know besides that. All<b> </b>that is certain is that at some point <b>in the very near future</b>, we will have no income.</div>
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I have spent the last 24 hours reminding myself of God's <b>goodness </b>and <b>sovereignty</b> in this. </div>
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And Lewis' sentiment is EXACTLY what I've been wondering. How painful is this going to be?</div>
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Because, honestly, though I am certainly tempted to doubt, I truly believe that <b>God will absolutely do the best for us.</b> But, I'm no stranger to the pain that is often involved in His best! </div>
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So we are hunkering down here, seeing an opportunity to walk by faith. (Which is SO MUCH HARDER than walking by sight!!)</div>
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I know it's no coincidence that I have just begun memorizing the book of James. </div>
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"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds for you know that the<b> testing of your faith </b>produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have it's full effect, that you will be perfect and complete, <b>lacking nothing</b>."</div>
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James 1:2-4</div>
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Or, perhaps you can see the irony in our Bible lesson this week: God Controls All of the Bad Things.</div>
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I taught that lesson to my children as I waited to hear the news we knew was being announced Wednesday! I knew God was preparing me. I knew the news would go into the "bad things" category. <br />
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But, here is what else I knew. God is not concerned with my comfort. He's after my heart. He wants me to love Him, worship Him, and live fully for Him. All things are from Him, through Him, and to Him for HIS GLORY and not mine.<br />
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So, my God will do the best for me. Only, His best will be aimed at my affections... not at my comfort.</div>
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I call this the "rubber meets the road" kind of faith. We talk about it; we study it; we teach it. <b>Now, we get to live it.</b></div>Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-74812818680472836482012-02-01T06:00:00.000-06:002012-02-01T06:00:00.665-06:00Halloween 2011-The Year of the Angry Birds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQle6N7AmBT1XM_3uIEtEmS-MhTHUJHtlvBqn793lAfbIBy84moWQPhF43TKy4GaWVV1ZB_fzI2qI5e7qe9FJbzh7xoK2Lpq-dF3rhMeySaeNXyATL8ELSPIYWVAFXG7D5hpT2/s1600/HPIM3322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQle6N7AmBT1XM_3uIEtEmS-MhTHUJHtlvBqn793lAfbIBy84moWQPhF43TKy4GaWVV1ZB_fzI2qI5e7qe9FJbzh7xoK2Lpq-dF3rhMeySaeNXyATL8ELSPIYWVAFXG7D5hpT2/s320/HPIM3322.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes I know it's February. Why do you ask?<br />
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I have not done a great job of journaling the goings ons around these parts. One reason: several weeks ago, my sweet dear Emma accidentally deleted ALL OF THE PHOTOS from her camera.<br />
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Guess whose camera I use almost always.<br />
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Guess whose cruise pictures were taken with Emma's camera.<br />
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Guess who had to go for a short drive after discovering that the entirety of our summer/early fall photos were gone forever.<br />
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But, I digress.<br />
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While recently looking for some other photos, I came across these super cute Halloween ones.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOEROEAqaONxrZ6K0B74CpaZmF4u6kCAvXVvk8qnmWl8cvBh8Yrz3WJZak4kF3dP9UkH6g45p7StPRXAa6AP4mMOvG0TWR2bI3dCb9XI2F3_Ah-pr3b4mZ_FXWeS1r1DK-38sy/s1600/HPIM3321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOEROEAqaONxrZ6K0B74CpaZmF4u6kCAvXVvk8qnmWl8cvBh8Yrz3WJZak4kF3dP9UkH6g45p7StPRXAa6AP4mMOvG0TWR2bI3dCb9XI2F3_Ah-pr3b4mZ_FXWeS1r1DK-38sy/s320/HPIM3321.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The older two peeps had basketball practice so I only had to make two costumes this year! Emma really wanted to be an angry bird and she convinced JW to be the pig!<br />
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We had a great time trick or treating with these sweet friends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_pow1oIUMk2DdAVrqnjH20cSJ1Y9YOUC1ygByteKhhzwb2Tlbb2tMS6tZm8bRpN0KX-4uOHmF6sSOXXupKbqW8mSK0H5nrJCTHpwT6MjWUSHMqW1aW6BKVcgR7xM34piM8EjK/s1600/HPIM3323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_pow1oIUMk2DdAVrqnjH20cSJ1Y9YOUC1ygByteKhhzwb2Tlbb2tMS6tZm8bRpN0KX-4uOHmF6sSOXXupKbqW8mSK0H5nrJCTHpwT6MjWUSHMqW1aW6BKVcgR7xM34piM8EjK/s320/HPIM3323.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, the angry bird and pig were all smiles.</div>
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<br /></div>Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-82113120318777702732012-01-30T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-30T06:00:05.222-06:00On Un-Plugging...Un-plugging is the third and final of my New Year's Resolutions! Honestly, I have so far found this one to be the hardest.<br />
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I do a lot of my preparation for school on my computer. It's also the way I stay on top of basketball practices/games (via emails from the coach) and JP's school needs (via emails from her tutor). It's also one of my hobbies! I love reading blogs and finding inspiration on Pinterest! And, then there's this blogging gig. (Though I'm not that consistent with ye ole blog!)<br />
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While none of these things is inherently wrong, I find that if I am not careful, hours can slip away while I am enjoying the world wide web!<br />
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When I think of unplugging, <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/blog/posts/10-steps-to-stay-alive-to-the-beauty-of-gods-world" target="_blank">this is exactly why I find it imperative.</a><br />
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So, I'm putting some practical parameters on my computer time in order to keep myself accountable to just how much of my time is spent on-line.<br />
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Here's what I'm thinking...<br />
15 minutes in the morning (email)<br />
15 minutes at lunch (email)<br />
1 hour in the afternoon (blogs/Pinterest)<br />
30 minutes-1 hour in the evening (depends on other obligations!)<br />
1 day/week-no computer<br />
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I realize 2-2 1/2 hours still seems like a lot, but I'm thinking I'm currently on-line much more than that.<br />
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They are all now out there... all of my self imposed parameters and plans for keeping my New Year's Resolutions. My hope is that by putting them all in writing for someone else to see, I'll be more accountable.<br />
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As always, I'll try to be honest about how I'm doing. (If you don't care, you can skip those posts!!)<br />
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Hopefully, no one will have to pry my laptop from my cold dead fingers!Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-84811802616103036132012-01-27T06:00:00.001-06:002012-01-27T06:00:16.779-06:00PINspiration...Brought to you by PinterestIt's no secret that I love <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. I pin so many great tips, recipes, and beautiful spaces. I've not only tried many of the recipes, I also incorporated a couple of my inspirational pins when redecorating Emma's room.<br />
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This is my inspiration.<br />
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Source: <a href="http://decorno.blogspot.com/search/label/inspiring%20rooms" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">decorno.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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I love the chest of drawers and the basket, but I am most smitten by the art. I have no idea who the original artist is, but I recreated this picture to hang above Emma's bed:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixW72WSkAQtwOM8cHJUMaS3p1FwO4ER_Yq2pU2FwmkMEc-7QBRJ8aNvsgNLZuGtkJzBDWlOq9Wm0AnkNHZex-psMVvqctTRwY-dM7zfIU3Ds0TnEuhI684JyS6Nu06e_yMdyeJ/s1600/IMG_7200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixW72WSkAQtwOM8cHJUMaS3p1FwO4ER_Yq2pU2FwmkMEc-7QBRJ8aNvsgNLZuGtkJzBDWlOq9Wm0AnkNHZex-psMVvqctTRwY-dM7zfIU3Ds0TnEuhI684JyS6Nu06e_yMdyeJ/s400/IMG_7200.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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I combined the following two photos, to create a gallery wall in Emma's room as well. I'm quite the fan of the gallery wall. I love the mirrors and empty frames. </div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.moredesignplease.com/moredesignplease/2011/3/8/mirrors-mirrors-on-the-wall.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">moredesignplease.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Since Emma loves to hang pictures all over her walls, I created a place for snapshots (inspired by the following).</div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/167336942373988554/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/167336942373988554_sP9tv7sP_c.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.moredesignplease.com/moredesignplease/2011/5/27/diy-string-in-frame-display.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">moredesignplease.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Here is my interpretation!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzzCyB35DSJTCZX1kPnCZGTNpyondZuZkm-_ctenjJ7MaVk56yytpO8OVNvNJ99bgRIZm8A1HQT2yA5G8OxzBaw5eiloyUZyNyP7J7YmPe1Cvd709y0QOq9BJEqVLf3iWoivf/s1600/IMG_7203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzzCyB35DSJTCZX1kPnCZGTNpyondZuZkm-_ctenjJ7MaVk56yytpO8OVNvNJ99bgRIZm8A1HQT2yA5G8OxzBaw5eiloyUZyNyP7J7YmPe1Cvd709y0QOq9BJEqVLf3iWoivf/s400/IMG_7203.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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I really want to add more mirrors and empty frames. Also, now that I see my inspiration photo again, I think I need to tighten the jute I used to create the photo frame or maybe just use wire instead. (Don't you love it when I think out loud?) </div>
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I also still need to refinish the furniture in her room. It was given to her by my mom, and was originally my grandmothers. I'm still contemplating the best color. All opinions are welcome!</div>
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My PINspiration list is LOOOONG. Hopefully, I will stay off of Pinterest long enough to actually accomplish some of it! </div>
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</div>Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-38865938825583489412012-01-25T06:00:00.001-06:002012-01-25T06:00:08.489-06:00Happy Birthday, Sarah!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No one told me when I married a man with two children that blending a family would be one of the hardest things I ever did. Not that it really mattered. I wouldn't have listened anyway!</div>
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But, blending a family <i><b>was</b></i> one of the hardest things I've (or rather "we've") ever done. </div>
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However, this beautiful young lady (and I'm NOT referring to Wes) is one of the reasons it was SO WORTH EVERY MINUTE!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJI2viavkCVVTkC0vwOKEpK107rRO3-tnl0VXD6NGOGcbdRrRq3s0fBFiygQYHS2gXof5gF7s35OjidIxn4T5bTDMTot9QcT6F3wPcEv0droerS135OhE8kTqpN79Y1oR_w_o/s1600/IMG_6643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJI2viavkCVVTkC0vwOKEpK107rRO3-tnl0VXD6NGOGcbdRrRq3s0fBFiygQYHS2gXof5gF7s35OjidIxn4T5bTDMTot9QcT6F3wPcEv0droerS135OhE8kTqpN79Y1oR_w_o/s320/IMG_6643.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Please excuse Wes's cap hair!</td></tr>
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Today, Sarah turns 23.<br />
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God has been gracious and over the years and despite the struggles, Sarah and I have become really close. She is my BONUS daughter, and I love her as my own!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6kRvlId2ISB33v5P21pjnrJZL6Ikm7CyXfEvoZrylxDqgktgc4BtlUt8gJs0WCAAAp7pRHSuOqF1O5kg8CRVNrUdCoZEgCi4bECfYu6PtWD2qi07YFqk_wK4B2irFGOIzaHs/s1600/IMG_6849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6kRvlId2ISB33v5P21pjnrJZL6Ikm7CyXfEvoZrylxDqgktgc4BtlUt8gJs0WCAAAp7pRHSuOqF1O5kg8CRVNrUdCoZEgCi4bECfYu6PtWD2qi07YFqk_wK4B2irFGOIzaHs/s320/IMG_6849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here are TWENTY-THREE lovely things I love about Sarah:<br />
1. Sarah loves family. She works to make sure we all stay connected, and she comes by to visit even if she DOESN'T NEED ANYTHING!!<br />
2. Sarah loves kids. She is like America's Most Wanted Nanny!<br />
3. Sarah loves dogs. This I will never understand, but she actually thinks Max is CUTE!<br />
4. Sarah is responsible.<br />
5. Sarah makes me laugh.<br />
6. Sarah and I make fun of Wes. It really annoys him!<br />
7. Sarah likes crafting.<br />
8. Sarah appreciates a great pair of shoes. Or, FOUR-HUNDRED GREAT PAIRS OF SHOES!!<br />
9. Likewise, Sarah appreciates a great purse. Or, you know, a thousand great purses!<br />
10. Sarah LOVES to cook.<br />
11. Sarah is an AMAZING COOK.<br />
12. Sarah cooks for us sometimes!<br />
13. Sarah shares my addiction to Pinterest.<br />
14. Sarah shares my addiction to queso.<br />
15. Sarah shares my addiction to wine! (just kidding. sort of!)<br />
16. Sarah always has a great selection of nail polish.<br />
17. Sarah lets the kids spend the night with her.<br />
18. Sarah has a stellar voice. I love to hear all of the girls singing together.<br />
19. While Sarah pierced her cartilage and her nose, she will NEVER pierce her tongue. (Right? ...Sarah? ...HELLO?)<br />
20. Sarah has PERFECT taste in music.<br />
21. Although Sarah is a TERRIBLE painter (if you don't believe me, check the baseboards in her former room!), she does enjoy re-arranging, re-decorating, and re-painting as much as I do! For that, I have to love her!<br />
22. Sarah is studying to be a teacher. Sarah will be the BEST TEACHER EVER.<br />
23. Sarah is beautiful INSIDE and out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHMTCsG639lt0bQob6W1i-MJr1x84D4B9VUHPTQE3OArjEIxya6cTh4C1VRvsUuiVFH4dHmb-N78yhSZvRxT3-ZyAYxNuuA_F9Ec534THtVVJImsoIY4mMgBxHMGIVsTSaChV/s1600/PC172904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHMTCsG639lt0bQob6W1i-MJr1x84D4B9VUHPTQE3OArjEIxya6cTh4C1VRvsUuiVFH4dHmb-N78yhSZvRxT3-ZyAYxNuuA_F9Ec534THtVVJImsoIY4mMgBxHMGIVsTSaChV/s320/PC172904.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sarah, I hope you have an amazing 23rd birthday. And, I hope your year just keeps getting better from there!Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-4925208625270127892012-01-24T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-24T06:00:10.111-06:00Happy Birthday, Jordan!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kMUq5TeBB41wTD7AOJ3ZYO4g80lyhqJfn5cMmpfTXJY7TyuPRSPREY0PDtLWYQYHYcas-YnmC-Kp_AZJnJ8i6f8KPpmTJliFdMLuB0SzDlLx5ayCl-BW5vNJuG1Tr4F4gD2b/s1600/395739_10150621383181425_619801424_11491355_153473625_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kMUq5TeBB41wTD7AOJ3ZYO4g80lyhqJfn5cMmpfTXJY7TyuPRSPREY0PDtLWYQYHYcas-YnmC-Kp_AZJnJ8i6f8KPpmTJliFdMLuB0SzDlLx5ayCl-BW5vNJuG1Tr4F4gD2b/s320/395739_10150621383181425_619801424_11491355_153473625_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Just yesterday, that FIFTEEN year old on the left was the same age as that TWO year old on the right.<br />
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JUST. YESTERDAY.<br />
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See?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_VlamzKnXQYFVZHdazMv2a2ZlrjOqapJwn8b16a_Ej_pb6kD8DU_HHInj2PgTPnsjavIOAmnNTSMb3lf64Yg-gMOFEOKlPz_ubP2yDfUNCIrnOy8kYDRsn8sTK7zeal2yl52/s1600/396035_313957255303370_100000672932125_1085839_2086823525_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_VlamzKnXQYFVZHdazMv2a2ZlrjOqapJwn8b16a_Ej_pb6kD8DU_HHInj2PgTPnsjavIOAmnNTSMb3lf64Yg-gMOFEOKlPz_ubP2yDfUNCIrnOy8kYDRsn8sTK7zeal2yl52/s320/396035_313957255303370_100000672932125_1085839_2086823525_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I just took that picture YESTERDAY!<br />
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How did this happen?!<br />
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No. really.<br />
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HOW DID THIS HAPPEN??!!!<br />
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I love having a teenage daughter, but it also makes me so sad that my babies are all growing up SO FAST.<br />
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In honor of her special day, here are the <b>top 15 reasons the teenage version of JP is even better than the toddler version:</b><br />
1. She wipes her own bottom.<br />
2. She no longer leaves sippy cups filled with milk in the car for who knows how long.<br />
3. She has better taste in music... and by that I mean, we are no longer listening to Barney!<br />
4. Her tantrums are much quieter (especially in public!).<br />
5. She dresses herself, feeds herself, and BLOWS HER OWN NOSE.<br />
6. She no longer spits disgusting stuff out IN MY HAND.<br />
7. She has stopped eating dog food and crickets. <br />
8. She talks like a grown up about grown up stuff.<br />
9. She loves to shop and doesn't need a bribe TO NOT EMBARRASS ME in the store!<br />
10. I'm no longer afraid to leave her alone with the scissors! or a sharpie! or HER SISTER!<br />
11. She's no longer BITING her friends. (I hope.)<br />
12. She appreciates a good nap as much as I do!<br />
13. She still gives me a big hug and squeals when she's excited.<br />
14. She still has that same great smile and beautiful blue eyes.<br />
15. She still makes me feel blessed every single day.<br />
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Happy <b>FIFTEENTH</b> Birthday, JP. Watching you grow into a beautiful young lady is one of the greatest joys of my life... even if it makes me a little sad!<br />
<br />Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-58671875304998283132012-01-23T19:39:00.002-06:002012-01-23T21:42:57.393-06:00Happy Birthday, Jake!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSIpIDdHC-cN4JP6HfQxoI-HjpBB-NOQR-a5_fMGIp3nTuxamWQ9eivWk-SXTO6VbiVzOIiXb58WacRl_gz2E95OrtVhOUwsp0ew1ncu5_khYDWix_w6_zgRGKzohalEYzzxG/s1600/PC172907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSIpIDdHC-cN4JP6HfQxoI-HjpBB-NOQR-a5_fMGIp3nTuxamWQ9eivWk-SXTO6VbiVzOIiXb58WacRl_gz2E95OrtVhOUwsp0ew1ncu5_khYDWix_w6_zgRGKzohalEYzzxG/s320/PC172907.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Today is Jake's 26th birthday. </div>
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Wait. WHAAAT? </div>
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Yes, that's correct. Jake is one score and six years.</div>
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I originally thought you were turning 27. One score and seven sounds much cooler than one score and six.</div>
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Then, I did the math just to make sure and realized you were only 26!</div>
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Sorry I tried to make you grow up too fast!!! :D</div>
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Happy Birthday, Jake. I hope you squeezed in some disc golf and Tai food! We LOVE and MISS you!!</div>Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-45160981616440950352012-01-23T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-23T06:00:06.841-06:00On getting up earlier...For the first couple of weeks in January, I started slowly bumping the alarm clock back (I guess technically I started using an alarm clock again!). My intension was to ease myself into the <a href="http://shellee-notsodeepthoughts.blogspot.com/2012/01/on-praying-more.html" target="_blank">hour earlier awakening to which I had so easily committed</a>. I am a woman of great intensions!<br />
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Here's where it gets tricky.<br />
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I also began weaning myself off caffeine (because of the whole eating better thing).<br />
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And processed food (again with the eating better).<br />
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Processed food includes sugar (I miss sugar).<br />
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I've never claimed to be a person who thinks things completely through before diving in. By not being such person, I had ultimately created THE PERFECT STORM.<br />
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When the phone rang at 5:22 AM on my first "back to the real world" Monday morning, ROBBING ME OF 11 PRECIOUS MINUTES OF SLEEP, I jumped out of the bed and dashed to see who was calling because, clearly, a 5:22 AM phone call is NOT good news.<br />
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It was a wrong number.<br />
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So, day 1 of getting up earlier, no caffeine, and no processed is off to a wonderful start. Throw in the traffic on the way to TAFA this morning to the tune of a normal 20 minute jaunt taking 52 minutes, and my less than perky personality is making an appearance.<br />
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Needless to say, my intentionality is biting me in the butt.<br />
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So as of right now, I'm tired, I'm groggy, I'm irritable, and I have a TERRIBLE HEADACHE. The goal is to feel BETTER right?<br />
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I guess there's some wisdom to that whole ONE step at a time stuff. I may have to re-think this plan over some coffee and a Snicker bar!<br />
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Day 1: ROUGH<br />
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No where to go but up, right?<br />
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<br />Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-32438257148914323102012-01-20T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-20T06:00:09.062-06:00Pinterest Recipe Reviews<div style="text-align: center;">
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I've been using <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> for several months now, and while I could waste years of my life clicking around there, I have found that it is an awesome tool for keeping up with things you see around the world wide web that you want to remember or try.<br />
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I have pinned several recipes lately, and have actually cooked many of them. Almost all of them have been delicious.<br />
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I thought I'd share my family's favorites so far.<br />
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<u>Southwest Eggrolls</u><br />
YUM. Fairly simple to make (takes 20 minutes or so to mix everything and then roll them up) and this one gets 12 thumbs up. We've actually had theses several times now. We've also shared them with friends, and they raved as well. (I added shredded chicken to these and made it a meal!)<br />
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Source: <a href="http://annies-eats.com/2010/03/05/baked-southwestern-egg-rolls/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">annies-eats.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<u>White Enchiladas</u><br />
These are SO GOOD. Again, all of the kids LOVED them. Well, except JP. She's lactose intolerant, so she got to eat shredded chicken and guacamole wrapped in corn tortillas. This one is a definite crowd pleaser!<br />
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<u>Source: <a href="http://joyful-mommas-kitchen.blogspot.com/2011/09/white-chicken-enchiladas.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">joyful-mommas-kitchen.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></u></div>
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<u>Jambalaya</u></div>
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This one I thought the kids wouldn't like. I made it because I really like jambalaya! But, go figure, they did! (I left out the seafood, but only because I knew the kids wouldn't eat it.)</div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.americanfamily.com/recipes/easy-slow-cooker-jambalaya/43136/RL" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">americanfamily.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<u>Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup</u></div>
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Easy Easy Easy! So easy. And so good.</div>
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Source: <a href="http://jonandjenmiller.blogspot.com/2010/09/crockpot-chicken-tortilla-soup.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">jonandjenmiller.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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We are a little past pumpkin season, but these two were a HUGE HIT in the fall. If you like pumpkin, you'll love these.<br />
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<u>Pumkin Muffins with Cream Cheese</u><br />
Made these twice in the fall. They are similar to a pumpkin roll, but in muffin form. They are to die for!<br />
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Source: <a href="http://annies-eats.net/2010/10/08/pumpkin-cream-cheese-muffins/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">annies-eats.net</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<u>Pumpkin Snickerdoodles</u></div>
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They are snickerdoodles. With PUMPKIN! And, I cannot be left alone with a batch of these bad boys. </div>
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Source: <a href="http://annies-eats.net/2011/09/23/pumpkin-snickerdoodles/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">annies-eats.net</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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With so much recipe success, I intend to keep trying new dinner ideas (because we could all use more "go-to" dinner ideas!). I'll let you know if I find more keepers.<br />
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Hopefully, the source links at the bottom of the pictures will take you to the recipes!<br />
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Now, go make dinner!<br />
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</div>Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-30928887359498495812012-01-19T07:48:00.000-06:002012-01-19T07:48:00.908-06:00Juice Fasting Isn't for Wimps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXTe7ueVQ1MMjpABUXBpV_3J5G5OeFGVjWxotzq4CunpUyEPYi1Tap4kHEerovrIxMdlT7FqGCorP0youQrTzW2f7whRlWlT4a8CKBYWYU3ffG546V9VZ6PCx0Hq7hhv7Slhn/s1600/IMG_7220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXTe7ueVQ1MMjpABUXBpV_3J5G5OeFGVjWxotzq4CunpUyEPYi1Tap4kHEerovrIxMdlT7FqGCorP0youQrTzW2f7whRlWlT4a8CKBYWYU3ffG546V9VZ6PCx0Hq7hhv7Slhn/s320/IMG_7220.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Well, this past weekend, Wes and I did our first three day juice fast.</div>
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Let's pause a moment and reflect on the gravity of that statement!!<br />
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Yes, for three whole days, our meals consisted of only fresh fruits and vegetables pressed through a juicer. Lots of apples, berries, greens, and other veggies were consumed and we somehow found ways to make them palatable!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMmAdzj4fr_sI38ES0gdPpak3BQtBHkmX_nCzOBK4l1AoOpu4sG46WGAyQ88gVuuEO1fLjDOIPiWYvWE5YiGz1ZdWbSXYY9mUjzJOYH4L24dRetICIiVpErccU2fRJq-yiKGJ/s1600/IMG_7221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMmAdzj4fr_sI38ES0gdPpak3BQtBHkmX_nCzOBK4l1AoOpu4sG46WGAyQ88gVuuEO1fLjDOIPiWYvWE5YiGz1ZdWbSXYY9mUjzJOYH4L24dRetICIiVpErccU2fRJq-yiKGJ/s320/IMG_7221.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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This is probably the most vegetables I have ever consumed in my life. (Sad. I know!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZwKmVHjl1HcAgCkx8KfsOAKe-WXqmKHPSwYyrWb_iQdxlWdjEc0Aeo4uCbzV5vlnaFjHGt1s599EgkaGJORfC6thJjiUkk7DlcYTndpQmKx0Rqpd_UV-CvpKjzCgLvyI2HJ6P/s1600/IMG_7225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZwKmVHjl1HcAgCkx8KfsOAKe-WXqmKHPSwYyrWb_iQdxlWdjEc0Aeo4uCbzV5vlnaFjHGt1s599EgkaGJORfC6thJjiUkk7DlcYTndpQmKx0Rqpd_UV-CvpKjzCgLvyI2HJ6P/s320/IMG_7225.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's the low-down:</div>
1. Day one was AWFUL. I felt terrible. I had no energy, was short tempered, and WANTED SOME GRUB.<br />
2. The taste of most green vegetable juice can be masked with a few apples.<br />
3. Tomatoes me no likey.<br />
4. I <strike>ate </strike> drank chard.<br />
5. What is chard?<br />
6. For one meal, I pretty much made salsa! And, drank it!!<br />
7. By day two I was feeling better, but still a little sluggish.<br />
8. My stomach growled A. LOT.<br />
9. I wanted to eat FOOD.<br />
10. THE. WHOLE. TIME.<br />
11. It's possible that I have a slight food addiction.<br />
12. Wing-Stop tastes better than veggies!<br />
13. I made it THREE DAYS, and I'm so glad that it's over!!<br />
14. Wes is STILL juicing.<br />
15. I am not.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYX6a1N7qGMFtFYRuj3Rr7bcL8-ZMiVsdwrLOVlLE4AyZm61nc_YJ6NCYrEpsGmWTDo4wU97SwVmJgPlS2ImORboXOw71GJY4v3spfIVcsxa42m_YCdXZPourxeT6p7sYu6gH/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYX6a1N7qGMFtFYRuj3Rr7bcL8-ZMiVsdwrLOVlLE4AyZm61nc_YJ6NCYrEpsGmWTDo4wU97SwVmJgPlS2ImORboXOw71GJY4v3spfIVcsxa42m_YCdXZPourxeT6p7sYu6gH/s320/photo.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
On the positive side...<br />
1. My skin cleared right up! I have the occasional breakout and after three days, there was not one blemish. Sadly, I'm four days out from stopping and the zits are back! (I'M NOT A TEENAGER!)<br />
2. I typically lose A LOT of hair everyday. This might be my imagination, but adding juice seems to have significantly decreased the amount of hair I'm losing. (Sorry, Kelly, for talking about hair loss!)<br />
3. I lost 3 whole pounds in 3 days (Wes lost 6!).<br />
4. It's OVER. For now!<br />
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Anyone on board for the next go round??Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-89886465306741498492012-01-18T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-18T06:00:15.379-06:00Paprika...It's the New Orange!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The other day, I started thinking I was finally ready to paint my barstools. Here's how it went down...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxDm4d9Uf3a9NtoOpL7FVv9iBBG-woaPXQL-o1IjgGvizgVIMVoYFNHnbFd1kW8pBEB4urIlqJr2AJZYKKSlClS1oYYiv_N8CKH3shpmeyHXcJkTK_UjJXtkyu72A9P9XJ4euo/s1600/photo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxDm4d9Uf3a9NtoOpL7FVv9iBBG-woaPXQL-o1IjgGvizgVIMVoYFNHnbFd1kW8pBEB4urIlqJr2AJZYKKSlClS1oYYiv_N8CKH3shpmeyHXcJkTK_UjJXtkyu72A9P9XJ4euo/s320/photo.PNG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_O5DF_3DGOD8xhc_EgJlWM5KM9Qf-m8YjufVrfftQp6lPUXurA7yEOb5iVyffnKeDPHqQnBRqOehXYtwJ_pfe9dXeeDw5Er-2D8XL-I6cWgQb7u5z4ZRm2JJRquLo7VCIcdV3/s1600/photo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_O5DF_3DGOD8xhc_EgJlWM5KM9Qf-m8YjufVrfftQp6lPUXurA7yEOb5iVyffnKeDPHqQnBRqOehXYtwJ_pfe9dXeeDw5Er-2D8XL-I6cWgQb7u5z4ZRm2JJRquLo7VCIcdV3/s320/photo.PNG" width="213" /></a></div>
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Here's the thing though. I have been wanting to repaint my bar stools for awhile. We have two really <strike>stupid</strike> precious dogs that both cut their teeth on my bar stools.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_U8KkIKLeKfT3_CUvP4udUBYfITxQrI-QKRABnaKTgCFJyDRd4tJzFLh0GLZlOOiXimL4d9SUYSnhf7BrCKZYctAJHB9aa1FkOHoG4iMiCZoOYVXm2ntq2gdHBidPzWIXvAA0/s1600/IMG_7042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_U8KkIKLeKfT3_CUvP4udUBYfITxQrI-QKRABnaKTgCFJyDRd4tJzFLh0GLZlOOiXimL4d9SUYSnhf7BrCKZYctAJHB9aa1FkOHoG4iMiCZoOYVXm2ntq2gdHBidPzWIXvAA0/s320/IMG_7042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's just that I've been a little indecisive on color. Until, that is, I saw this picture on pinterest...</div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/167336942374168847/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/90775748708701030_e0gsxag0_c.jpg" width="326" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/woodwoolstool/5582141329/in/faves-creature_comforts/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">flickr.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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And, then this one...</div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/167336942374167687/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/240661173807298614_bUIyWYud_c.jpg" width="338" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://vi.sualize.us/view/18a43c8ec7ac84e2335c038b83a1e04a/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">vi.sualize.us</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/shelleep/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shellee</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Hence, the red vs. orange dilemma.</div>
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I landed on "Paprika." It's a deep reddish orange. However, I must state for the record that I'm now thinking I like the lighter orange better. I have a little bit of an orange phobia though, because the last time I leaned in the direction of orange, my living room ended up looking like Don Pablos and all I wanted to eat was chips and queso. Not that that is different from any other day as far as the cravings go!</div>
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The point is, I now have orange-ish red-ish barstools.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjcTsOXCeUYDWyf21779qhTUOieusygfnP4s2QfBfJp66A9wfwELZmBuwFWIu2x6xCZUeUD6XR4C6FfoB-xHiB_UtFcEBALlm1t4VWrtxPsS3MDkCz8EyU5Mr20Kopz-Szxkb/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjcTsOXCeUYDWyf21779qhTUOieusygfnP4s2QfBfJp66A9wfwELZmBuwFWIu2x6xCZUeUD6XR4C6FfoB-xHiB_UtFcEBALlm1t4VWrtxPsS3MDkCz8EyU5Mr20Kopz-Szxkb/s320/photo.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a phone picture I sent to Leigh. It shows the before/after side by side.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iKkgQfi2MVmrt2a0dWBIvuqcj5PNfIDZSxNWLLMSdYF-2m8NJ55YdL-VHyinrAXrZdJpaqYc1awaFl4pW-EvSEJJECqlkuOEtLgDBgyg_L3tp8K-d870Qes_PDXDVYDaS7VL/s1600/IMG_7187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iKkgQfi2MVmrt2a0dWBIvuqcj5PNfIDZSxNWLLMSdYF-2m8NJ55YdL-VHyinrAXrZdJpaqYc1awaFl4pW-EvSEJJECqlkuOEtLgDBgyg_L3tp8K-d870Qes_PDXDVYDaS7VL/s320/IMG_7187.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyzhSR8IvkPOqSwL2wvsUv8RAFrcP-KIp5d3uNy90BNM5NcEGFHydPVYAWBrLoW70TIxid8usUenkzbr6ES-uBn5kVOzymQ9u6hTCKWa9BtKKjBw-BtRaCLzqWZy0tGQjZLfCM/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyzhSR8IvkPOqSwL2wvsUv8RAFrcP-KIp5d3uNy90BNM5NcEGFHydPVYAWBrLoW70TIxid8usUenkzbr6ES-uBn5kVOzymQ9u6hTCKWa9BtKKjBw-BtRaCLzqWZy0tGQjZLfCM/s320/photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm determined to live with them awhile because there are a few other dining area changes I'm considering, so for now, they stay paprika!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8g3DidF5bNXZJ-3LdwzQs2Byi2-lDR70R5E1gveua04YsJTPxPB05h84EZsiutqzmY6h-EvUAcnxATewPworGD4dLO-pBm4A5TOBm4vqFrwXV4lmxhvI2NoyL_4ZYVsdbcKaL/s1600/IMG_7195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8g3DidF5bNXZJ-3LdwzQs2Byi2-lDR70R5E1gveua04YsJTPxPB05h84EZsiutqzmY6h-EvUAcnxATewPworGD4dLO-pBm4A5TOBm4vqFrwXV4lmxhvI2NoyL_4ZYVsdbcKaL/s320/IMG_7195.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Unless, of course, I start getting strange urges to eat deviled eggs.Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-41018148494058731072012-01-16T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-16T06:00:07.162-06:00On Eating BetterHere's the truth. I know a whole lot about health and nutrition.<br />
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My degree required many health and nutrition classes in addition to everything I learned about physical fitness. The two go hand and hand. It's hard to be in peak physical condition without regard for nutrition and health. So, I know a lot. <br />
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Another fact. I don't put much of that knowledge into practice. I don't eat the way I should. I love sugar, fat, and caffeine. A. WHOLE. LOT.<br />
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Here's another fact. Vegetables and I have a very rocky relationship on a good day! Honestly, I have never liked them. Over the years, I have learned to tolerate them because I know they are necessary; but, I doubt very seriously that there will ever be a day when I think to myself, "Boy, I sure wish I had some carrots." (You can insert any vegetable you like. I am no respecter of veggies when it comes to my disdain. They are all pretty equally disgusting to me!)<br />
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Given these facts, I honestly know that eating better is going to be a real challenge for me.<br />
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Wes recently convinced me to watch the documentary "Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead" with him. I admittedly am not a fan of the whole we eat a crappy diet documentary bandwagon that everyone has jumped on lately!<br />
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He asked and asked me to watch it.<br />
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I never did.<br />
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One day over Christmas break, I was chillin' by the fire and he just came in and turned it on. Sneaky little sucker.<br />
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No matter how you feel about the aforementioned bandwagon, this fat, sick, and nearly dead guy had some phenomenal results from choosing to change his eating habits. It's just no secret that the typical American diet is crap (though this guy is Australian! Ha!). And we most likely feel like crap because we eat like crap.<br />
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None of this would have mattered much to me if I hadn't been feeling so crappy lately! But, I have been feeling crappy. And, this guy said that he has more energy, more mental clarity, and feels better than ever. <br />
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Yes, please. I'll take two of each of those.<br />
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Because of that film, I am determined to eat better. Wes is all in. In fact, he found a $45 juicer on Craigslist and we are starting with a juice detox. (Please note: After obtaining said juicer, Wes also obtained all of the ingredients necessary to make Mr. Fat Sick and Nearly Dead's "mean green" juice. I drank said juice. I DRY HEAVED. True story. Veggie juice does not taste any better than veggies. :/)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4spEu6RVvyCH11osUlAHrXwr7BLa9H406Ud1a5_k9kZLwz7okHA5RMq94tx1edG4bPPVB_FV4Bs_Bk1meBAKKxzwvwgrEgpszVYWk0C2WncrkzHLiwz8GLjuE2azRoON6PXBe/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4spEu6RVvyCH11osUlAHrXwr7BLa9H406Ud1a5_k9kZLwz7okHA5RMq94tx1edG4bPPVB_FV4Bs_Bk1meBAKKxzwvwgrEgpszVYWk0C2WncrkzHLiwz8GLjuE2azRoON6PXBe/s320/photo.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the actual "Mean Green" juice... and I drank it!</td></tr>
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So, on the practical side for <a href="http://shellee-notsodeepthoughts.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-resolutions.html" target="_blank">resolution number 2</a>, I plan to do a weekend juice fast every six weeks in 2012. I will also drink more water and make a conscious effort to think about the things I am putting into my body. It's not that I will never eat anything bad for me again. I know that is crazy. It's just that I need to eat more of the veggies and fruits and less of the processed and meats.<br />
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So three practical eating better steps:<br />
1. Drink more water<br />
2. Juice fast one weekend every 6 weeks<br />
3. Cut back on the processed foods, fast foods, etc.<br />
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So those are the facts. All wagers are on. How long will I last? Will the increased energy and mental clarity be enough to ward off the Dr. Pepper and Wingstop? Will I ever crave a carrot? Is feeling good while homeschooling four children even possible?<br />
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I can't wait to find out!Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-1199994550714899692012-01-13T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-13T06:00:04.282-06:00Snuggle Bugs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauJA28nalmm3RtxV1LfJ9Vfw64PFAwt4f9-6CAAhtFz-O3aAHIODODX7foRs3Uyid1dxWhjPQL66NfZHN6lM91z0kKaIkrzQdAFwr8yhDuIIyJym5Kq2i4rP3rkiizH1xKnSh/s1600/electronics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauJA28nalmm3RtxV1LfJ9Vfw64PFAwt4f9-6CAAhtFz-O3aAHIODODX7foRs3Uyid1dxWhjPQL66NfZHN6lM91z0kKaIkrzQdAFwr8yhDuIIyJym5Kq2i4rP3rkiizH1xKnSh/s320/electronics.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkA3I8nXU-_GSLlJac1Xcx_W8ipAt-eosL2ot-Ky4GxadC6dLwrxFGMlkLt19WA5P0A0pjK_Yuav4sgaWCmVMWoPFKqHjjcYgVFcQh6nlhVuZ3Mu2mn8rIwB_kN1oK2uVcdqD/s1600/electronics2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkA3I8nXU-_GSLlJac1Xcx_W8ipAt-eosL2ot-Ky4GxadC6dLwrxFGMlkLt19WA5P0A0pjK_Yuav4sgaWCmVMWoPFKqHjjcYgVFcQh6nlhVuZ3Mu2mn8rIwB_kN1oK2uVcdqD/s320/electronics2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLIuzCK2oY-CI6lLyxlQHFv3PStKmz9to2HCTlc_00vKqaSDMp6V_jCpzY6u5aQG_PFpAEysmCrd5UEUQybgRrErEgMxskBAG1p6FkMc_z73-wIywD72v3110riMBZpClp-q0A/s1600/IMG_7062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLIuzCK2oY-CI6lLyxlQHFv3PStKmz9to2HCTlc_00vKqaSDMp6V_jCpzY6u5aQG_PFpAEysmCrd5UEUQybgRrErEgMxskBAG1p6FkMc_z73-wIywD72v3110riMBZpClp-q0A/s320/IMG_7062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-52283664394653307012012-01-12T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-12T06:00:05.193-06:00Go Riders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The girls joined the THESA Riders (a homeschool basketball team) this season and are having a BLAST. More importantly, they are really getting better at basketball.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPcE4ipXCpGLjTXBSkAg6L5heCNtH9pPxzejKFN10oONU-dM1TPrpY4qkp6MucQMK1ciWJSDtnXRnMsjn6OzrXb6IKfC5tkk7cC1qtIqIbTN-Th8-r602mVQdJj_DVibjWdKI/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPcE4ipXCpGLjTXBSkAg6L5heCNtH9pPxzejKFN10oONU-dM1TPrpY4qkp6MucQMK1ciWJSDtnXRnMsjn6OzrXb6IKfC5tkk7cC1qtIqIbTN-Th8-r602mVQdJj_DVibjWdKI/s320/photo.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Their team recently won second place in the Stephenville Freshman tournament (falling only to the home team!).<br />
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They are finishing the season strong with hopes of doing some work at the upcoming State Tournament.<br />
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Can't wait to watch!<br />
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<br />Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-61362057745635209122012-01-11T16:04:00.000-06:002012-01-11T16:04:31.900-06:00Love These Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYO1Zh3Iq9xGTxk0ReouFD_vKhgwt26ms9Qn03Xt0aH-zJs32CNccAopeTSPnnsV96WAf3SfLfUL2GMHeAAgwv0q7jhpIRFrKGVFRAL2WVyt7BfENCXcMO191QYHZ0EYUCNtY/s1600/IMG_7037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYO1Zh3Iq9xGTxk0ReouFD_vKhgwt26ms9Qn03Xt0aH-zJs32CNccAopeTSPnnsV96WAf3SfLfUL2GMHeAAgwv0q7jhpIRFrKGVFRAL2WVyt7BfENCXcMO191QYHZ0EYUCNtY/s320/IMG_7037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzfX1dPU_C4ROkgQHs8GJJ9tYsOCZuU4r1GzrPQQfebmqXMiPVeCjua65oFkMaO9Wyzu7u74t3yj0X7ULKr7LQ0Dsz7rCCRA3aVoDQGfT-hrEGgnLIYRDSb9bqLS6bb5tL4_2/s1600/IMG_7038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzfX1dPU_C4ROkgQHs8GJJ9tYsOCZuU4r1GzrPQQfebmqXMiPVeCjua65oFkMaO9Wyzu7u74t3yj0X7ULKr7LQ0Dsz7rCCRA3aVoDQGfT-hrEGgnLIYRDSb9bqLS6bb5tL4_2/s320/IMG_7038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-19691198184406935312012-01-11T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-11T06:00:01.959-06:00Garage Sale Dresser Makeover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Back in the fall, I was searching Craigslist for a dresser that I could use for a media stand in the living room. I wanted it to be long and somewhat short (as opposed to a chest of drawers), but I could never quite find what I wanted.</div>
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While driving JP to class one morning, I saw this guy sitting in a yard sale. I stopped in on the way home, and did a quick check. Drawers work? check. Can I make it cute? check. Priced right? CHECK!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUa_L5s_oyun2KPPjAUzkRitTY058lJScETqlA0wSI-LaB1UD2NFbCpjWdKa8HOSE8tWnkojxgmnNXFUQsyqFcjlRQ5UKpR2JzVoNPOVkYZkgpLqeB5HF8BtLdM-KtZxkx26y/s1600/IMG_6394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUa_L5s_oyun2KPPjAUzkRitTY058lJScETqlA0wSI-LaB1UD2NFbCpjWdKa8HOSE8tWnkojxgmnNXFUQsyqFcjlRQ5UKpR2JzVoNPOVkYZkgpLqeB5HF8BtLdM-KtZxkx26y/s320/IMG_6394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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So I hauled this bad boy home in the back of my mini-van and immediately got to work making it gorgeous!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaqANQ4HGmqgNdvg4Oi4fI1V3nigDZPKo_g-paC1fM4Ii5EcDplrRlIgr_mbwZzCFfVbe_5FRH9iY_yYTqgfULSHypDqjW4xtUAziyCCcIcxr9gc65s24hTagDCKZOL1wjrGw/s1600/IMG_6395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaqANQ4HGmqgNdvg4Oi4fI1V3nigDZPKo_g-paC1fM4Ii5EcDplrRlIgr_mbwZzCFfVbe_5FRH9iY_yYTqgfULSHypDqjW4xtUAziyCCcIcxr9gc65s24hTagDCKZOL1wjrGw/s320/IMG_6395.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Check it out now!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8gJENfvXetj3YyWT77aojv5Jn_aFdKBAC2sP8qo6a6gs1Vnxn2wTWP50hUKpntbGcr5FzQSQFicZJBmy6d2Tzv2ox7bJs7-1lwsdsTBoKyKKZjLqPUxjNGqUe8PfL5Eb3DXU/s1600/IMG_7064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8gJENfvXetj3YyWT77aojv5Jn_aFdKBAC2sP8qo6a6gs1Vnxn2wTWP50hUKpntbGcr5FzQSQFicZJBmy6d2Tzv2ox7bJs7-1lwsdsTBoKyKKZjLqPUxjNGqUe8PfL5Eb3DXU/s320/IMG_7064.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
I stripped the top of the dresser, and stained it (Minwax English Chestnut). I then spray painted the bottom (Rustoleum Heirloom White). I thought I would want to find new hardware, but once it was painted, I kind of liked it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1saN5xCPyxMynNA7wN7lbAdmxvneUNBT-GqUIgpuPF_rgC7a0iFvVTS0WTTGtFlPoN1lrDku1O_sdVhxFchRuwGD_zkKTh4A9b7eDXWXvMjEy5EHtpoV4aY7ViJFT-HGMthsU/s1600/IMG_7068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1saN5xCPyxMynNA7wN7lbAdmxvneUNBT-GqUIgpuPF_rgC7a0iFvVTS0WTTGtFlPoN1lrDku1O_sdVhxFchRuwGD_zkKTh4A9b7eDXWXvMjEy5EHtpoV4aY7ViJFT-HGMthsU/s320/IMG_7068.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Before:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDSKN2lD71L1_V1RNRgwoGlMhlonqjGkpy2yBUk1SRvLlLBys7xn8NSvoLnc77Gdiefk3OeuotQkbRkcJvQYmksIIdGt8EQ-CftndbGNL0vOo60uOn_TpA974P-LAWsqokddP/s1600/IMG_6394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDSKN2lD71L1_V1RNRgwoGlMhlonqjGkpy2yBUk1SRvLlLBys7xn8NSvoLnc77Gdiefk3OeuotQkbRkcJvQYmksIIdGt8EQ-CftndbGNL0vOo60uOn_TpA974P-LAWsqokddP/s320/IMG_6394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDvLuqds8cJjO4O26kdvYn0yfMSBpwrX-xWF1vxZzJxLl7OJOsHS3tChwTSGld4DaE0wasV39noZO5xgFB2xHTPunp9FFDp8_fPWsLN26ZCMUPZj_TjiqhGEDgyMehsVtQzw6_/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDvLuqds8cJjO4O26kdvYn0yfMSBpwrX-xWF1vxZzJxLl7OJOsHS3tChwTSGld4DaE0wasV39noZO5xgFB2xHTPunp9FFDp8_fPWsLN26ZCMUPZj_TjiqhGEDgyMehsVtQzw6_/s320/photo.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Just for fun, here is a photo of the this area before paint and with the old entertainment armoire:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxpIIJ_gOOgy1xRDODjmIRK7taRZoAPbiCqdzcvaigExPbbHNtwNK154csRHbLHpNCy7Dg-uZXXwZCpzrpz8Z1vD1IvaWmFEkFZB_EaElvOMQONVJaN0xIVmXGkg2Ur_NwwFco/s1600/IMG_6190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxpIIJ_gOOgy1xRDODjmIRK7taRZoAPbiCqdzcvaigExPbbHNtwNK154csRHbLHpNCy7Dg-uZXXwZCpzrpz8Z1vD1IvaWmFEkFZB_EaElvOMQONVJaN0xIVmXGkg2Ur_NwwFco/s320/IMG_6190.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
And, here is how it looks now (after I've cleared off all the video games and controllers, of course!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXNmuQvq1dKd8Tbdl4oA9zAIjtWgwEFrTtA5TAQKNdAlU5OFKHCG9CA2YueCNzq8pDnWrWmSc5Av_kDDUenjz8mCeAlQOOjOXIyVpIeteQYgWmpqVA3cKsAa7kj29ChqDqZeg/s1600/IMG_7069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMXNmuQvq1dKd8Tbdl4oA9zAIjtWgwEFrTtA5TAQKNdAlU5OFKHCG9CA2YueCNzq8pDnWrWmSc5Av_kDDUenjz8mCeAlQOOjOXIyVpIeteQYgWmpqVA3cKsAa7kj29ChqDqZeg/s320/IMG_7069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ahhhh... it's nice to see improvement.Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-39683254571087386822012-01-09T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-14T20:09:43.014-06:00On Praying More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eMjqWBbWC-krQTO6xXxZWLAbLj0CulJFVy_rM_U0GE5AGlPHtx7yZbp57Kn9AG_xgyMGtRvFAQ-cK4EdBGI7bt42Bn_JLNHzUYN-1ID3Cd3Wt6LrokFsdZ-GLyfkRPZeVAbx/s1600/HPIM2413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eMjqWBbWC-krQTO6xXxZWLAbLj0CulJFVy_rM_U0GE5AGlPHtx7yZbp57Kn9AG_xgyMGtRvFAQ-cK4EdBGI7bt42Bn_JLNHzUYN-1ID3Cd3Wt6LrokFsdZ-GLyfkRPZeVAbx/s320/HPIM2413.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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So, I made a couple or <a href="http://shellee-notsodeepthoughts.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-resolutions.html" target="_blank">three resolutions for 2012</a>. In all honesty, this is the first year in several years that I have looked forward to with any kind of hope. (I know, I know! Cue Debbie Downer!) I've been in somewhat of a funk. Mostly a spiritual funk. God has been ruthless over the past several years and been digging around in places that I had buried for a long, long time. Coming to terms with your own sinfulness is ugly. Brutal. Exhausting. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANTGFloMp9iRQaM7tagbaQWMA2VxRhQTSy9_GIUP-dIYBiaH-qNcThkRyxIZuAbY2fWfSJDccTmn2iem1HC9c-A2593glu4qzZ2OcqYu_5eyvZ3YO7_Jy9J_JEzqA9-bJthaX/s1600/IMG_0807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANTGFloMp9iRQaM7tagbaQWMA2VxRhQTSy9_GIUP-dIYBiaH-qNcThkRyxIZuAbY2fWfSJDccTmn2iem1HC9c-A2593glu4qzZ2OcqYu_5eyvZ3YO7_Jy9J_JEzqA9-bJthaX/s320/IMG_0807.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
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I know that it's not over. The digging that is. But, toward the end of 2011, I had a life-changing moment with God. Or, I guess I should say He opened my eyes to something that had bogged me down in my faith for a LONG time. (It's a very very long story, as it involves a verse that has bothered me most of my Christian life. I hope to find words to articulate it soon.)<br />
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Here is my point: I have hope that I haven't felt in years and it gives me reason to look to 2012 with a new anticipation. It's not so much optimism. I don't believe that it will be the year of my dreams or anything! It's more of a renewed trust. Knowing that I cannot know what this coming year will hold, but I can trust that God is there and He is enough.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkvDDwrMSMMdBF9jeTOTpc7LckNaihD9zHkbRySH7hctV5ERZBJ0Pw_tGaY0oYgIWS-eGbVkESDo7rf41WKoToQHZLpPHq0Mh4msJlALxJ1eQZpQqLtYhRHofcBoPVkubuPoS/s1600/IMG_0805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkvDDwrMSMMdBF9jeTOTpc7LckNaihD9zHkbRySH7hctV5ERZBJ0Pw_tGaY0oYgIWS-eGbVkESDo7rf41WKoToQHZLpPHq0Mh4msJlALxJ1eQZpQqLtYhRHofcBoPVkubuPoS/s320/IMG_0805.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
With that in mind, I decided I would in fact set <a href="http://shellee-notsodeepthoughts.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-resolutions.html" target="_blank">some goals for 2012</a>.<br />
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As with all good intentions, it is wise to think through how you're going to actually pull them off. <br />
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I have to start with the acknowledgement that all real change is a work of grace. So, I am completely dependent upon God to transform me. This never goes as quickly as I would like. It's always slow, tedious, meticulous, and BRUTALLY PAINFUL!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FFZZf5mnr0TkwLXgFbfy7NoUMN7ofavCfsZvmBB1WdJ5N7WDZf6OlbS7bZG354XAyYZfEBXVEOtfw5iFHhEUP_LTYS-cSgSEqAM93hyphenhyphen9-CSLPZNsm9PEr-vrZrgkIbWI4Ipf/s1600/IMG_0533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FFZZf5mnr0TkwLXgFbfy7NoUMN7ofavCfsZvmBB1WdJ5N7WDZf6OlbS7bZG354XAyYZfEBXVEOtfw5iFHhEUP_LTYS-cSgSEqAM93hyphenhyphen9-CSLPZNsm9PEr-vrZrgkIbWI4Ipf/s320/IMG_0533.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
But, I believe there are some disciplines we can practice to open ourselves to the Spirit's work. Which is why my first goal for 2012 is to pray more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-dKj3uYMqAx_Z9c8BoQc5brG-AaKir_rOaIZ1ZeIm9qnOOvQfsTH81kilktstnmMI8CEOTjCugNKqXqjuEw7KpIg07yXrS_l_qpmtD55pA5K8PNc-Wg2me89JMeRY8DWkrPcE/s1600/IMG_0405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-dKj3uYMqAx_Z9c8BoQc5brG-AaKir_rOaIZ1ZeIm9qnOOvQfsTH81kilktstnmMI8CEOTjCugNKqXqjuEw7KpIg07yXrS_l_qpmtD55pA5K8PNc-Wg2me89JMeRY8DWkrPcE/s320/IMG_0405.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
My life, like everyone else's, is hectic. If I am to find more time for communion, I must be intentional.<br />
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I have two options here. I can either get up earlier or go to bed later. Both options will rob me of sleep and MOMA NEEDS HER SLEEP! But, I know that the benefits of a praying mom outweigh the benefits of a rested mom, so I have decided to get up earlier.<br />
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I already wake up at least an hour before the kids for some intentional quiet time. I'm going to try and bump this back another hour so that I have time to not only think through my day, and spend time in the Word, but also so that I have time to just be still. An extra hour will give me plenty of time to quiet my mind and focus of listening.<br />
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So, that is my big plan for being a more intentional prayer. <br />
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It's not much for sure, but this is the year of HOPE! <br />
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P.S. I have a thing for sunsets! Too bad it's not for sunrises! Because that would flow so much better with this post! Perhaps I should have chosen stay up later!</div>Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-60944449244958304482012-01-06T06:00:00.000-06:002012-01-06T06:00:19.221-06:00They Came from the Land Down Unda...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96F0UF03KvWHs7gWAdIyp6YzNTDhnvpLGWGNi4TkOIZ_7h_3KR25OX6h0X1saN3RqmonWy1WObzKTZFziEmVTJxvc9KcabpnMXkKtRdZkfawpSk5iU5SIzjnCK54czfuQ-siz/s1600/IMG_6412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96F0UF03KvWHs7gWAdIyp6YzNTDhnvpLGWGNi4TkOIZ_7h_3KR25OX6h0X1saN3RqmonWy1WObzKTZFziEmVTJxvc9KcabpnMXkKtRdZkfawpSk5iU5SIzjnCK54czfuQ-siz/s320/IMG_6412.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Over Christmas break, we had the privilege of playing against a basketball team from Australia (John Paul College that's actually a high school)! And if that weren't cool enough, we actually hosted a couple of the players for the night.<br />
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Maddy and Ally stayed the night and brought lots of goodies straight from the land down under!<br />
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They had never eaten an "authentic s'more" so we were able to treat them! We had never eaten vegamite and they were able to "treat" us!<br />
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Pretty sure they got the best end of that deal!<br />
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It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience that the girls won't soon forget.Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32241339.post-28830182333410060952012-01-05T21:29:00.000-06:002012-01-05T21:29:11.721-06:00Like Father, Like Son<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are those who believe Wes looks exactly like his dad.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPCFyB-AdkOGqcTCL8-8wQN2WprkYsf_yZEnktBrhF8W0CXHIKOXzw2ps3W1fLIn8L0y-oPtR16160z5KkIVwE5xHVlOLE_6J-7YmAvVH2HgJk5E_2bRloGvGLJtIBSYpcxNq/s1600/IMG_6936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPCFyB-AdkOGqcTCL8-8wQN2WprkYsf_yZEnktBrhF8W0CXHIKOXzw2ps3W1fLIn8L0y-oPtR16160z5KkIVwE5xHVlOLE_6J-7YmAvVH2HgJk5E_2bRloGvGLJtIBSYpcxNq/s320/IMG_6936.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I don't see it! ;)Shelleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15201659195314303624noreply@blogger.com0