tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86314099533042177922024-03-17T22:03:03.454-05:00making it feel like homeMaking a happy home for myself and my young family, 576 miles away from my hometown.TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.comBlogger606125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-9333516096041526182014-04-20T05:30:00.000-05:002014-04-20T05:30:01.110-05:00Happy Easter!<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8lahtAGQsbE/U1EgSWFFuFI/AAAAAAAAIbc/R8OzQ0VU7Po/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8lahtAGQsbE/U1EgSWFFuFI/AAAAAAAAIbc/R8OzQ0VU7Po/s1600/securedownload.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artwork by Jude<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com215tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-74681997168218646542014-03-28T06:00:00.000-05:002014-03-28T06:00:05.309-05:00Daddy/Daughter Dance<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ryan took Clare and Ellen to a Father-Daughter dance a few weekends ago. Ellen was thrilled she was old enough to attend this year and was SO excited about her big night out. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Waiting for Daddy...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c64RE8yLT4A/UzOGle2UVnI/AAAAAAAAIas/HHtzlzICZVY/s1600/IMG_1528.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c64RE8yLT4A/UzOGle2UVnI/AAAAAAAAIas/HHtzlzICZVY/s1600/IMG_1528.jpg.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When they saw he had roses for them...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2Mw-jeFOXc/UzOGlSmDEJI/AAAAAAAAIao/fxnDaKkejOA/s1600/IMG_1530.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2Mw-jeFOXc/UzOGlSmDEJI/AAAAAAAAIao/fxnDaKkejOA/s1600/IMG_1530.jpg.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pretty girls! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rxtCj4Py_N0/UzOC8BBm2nI/AAAAAAAAIY0/YL7weWCElHk/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rxtCj4Py_N0/UzOC8BBm2nI/AAAAAAAAIY0/YL7weWCElHk/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PutZeKJ0b94/UzOC34v8mNI/AAAAAAAAIYk/8cE96Kp0mE0/s1600/IMG_1535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PutZeKJ0b94/UzOC34v8mNI/AAAAAAAAIYk/8cE96Kp0mE0/s1600/IMG_1535.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Such a big girl! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0B_k5soOnco/UzOC_5gbELI/AAAAAAAAIY8/jH5vfTO1he4/s1600/IMG_1538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0B_k5soOnco/UzOC_5gbELI/AAAAAAAAIY8/jH5vfTO1he4/s1600/IMG_1538.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Keeping her eye on her prize!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CHNgitMuxM/UzODAI38mHI/AAAAAAAAIZA/RRXhq8eEJXI/s1600/IMG_1539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CHNgitMuxM/UzODAI38mHI/AAAAAAAAIZA/RRXhq8eEJXI/s1600/IMG_1539.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So sweet and excited! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ooF8DtvyrjU/UzODJBQkFFI/AAAAAAAAIZY/JNehLeWcdCk/s1600/IMG_1541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ooF8DtvyrjU/UzODJBQkFFI/AAAAAAAAIZY/JNehLeWcdCk/s1600/IMG_1541.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And just because he could, Ryan wore his favorite jacket....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--g59m5p5iFY/UzODRxmIWrI/AAAAAAAAIZs/Wcz4UWq7PnA/s1600/IMG_1544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--g59m5p5iFY/UzODRxmIWrI/AAAAAAAAIZs/Wcz4UWq7PnA/s1600/IMG_1544.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The boys and I had our own fun...pizza for dinner, an early bedtime for Michael, laundry folding, and then Jude read Dr. Seuess books to me. Pretty nice night for us, too! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdHWOg0bF_k/UzODZYqUWrI/AAAAAAAAIaI/-p5NDzagy3o/s1600/IMG_1548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdHWOg0bF_k/UzODZYqUWrI/AAAAAAAAIaI/-p5NDzagy3o/s1600/IMG_1548.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's to another great weekend!</div>
<br />
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-44416057359394730992014-03-17T08:29:00.001-05:002014-03-17T08:29:04.573-05:00Happy St. Patrick's Day!<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KviKPZE77gw/Uyb4eSMhXII/AAAAAAAAIXo/qSQYyLXJJQ0/s1600/photo+(84).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KviKPZE77gw/Uyb4eSMhXII/AAAAAAAAIXo/qSQYyLXJJQ0/s1600/photo+(84).JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"If I found a pot of gold I would hide it under my bed." -Jude</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-22310358592263609032014-03-12T06:00:00.000-05:002014-03-12T06:00:03.702-05:00Book Recommendations<div style="text-align: center;">
Clare loves to read. She also loves to wind down after school by listening to a chapter book on CD while she gets changed out of her uniform after school. I try to keep her supply of reading and listening materials well stocked from our local library. Clare will tell you she likes (loves) the Mary Kate & Ashley series, but I try to give her books with a <i>bit</i> more substance to them. Here are some of her favorite books that I have checked out for her, they average about a 4th grade reading level.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZ18YJPAuFs/Ut87-1UAsQI/AAAAAAAAIPA/c_VIz081z2A/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZ18YJPAuFs/Ut87-1UAsQI/AAAAAAAAIPA/c_VIz081z2A/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pippi Longstocking Series <i>by Astrid Lindgren</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The American Girl Series <i>various authors</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Cricket in Times Square <i>by Geore Selden</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Doll Shop Downstairs <i>by Yona Zeldis McDonough</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No Flying in the House <i>by Betty Brock</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kylie Jean Series <i>by Marci Peschke</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hotel for Dogs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Movie for Dogs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
News for Dogs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>all by Lois Duncan</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series <i>by Jeff Kinney</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rainbow Fairy Series<i> by Daisy Meadows</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Magic Tree House Series<i> by Mary Pope Osborne</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Capital Mysteries Series<i> by Ron Roy</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GsUf5xWbScE/UwQoPoYFZ0I/AAAAAAAAITc/9To5G0gFfWw/s1600/book.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GsUf5xWbScE/UwQoPoYFZ0I/AAAAAAAAITc/9To5G0gFfWw/s1600/book.jpeg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Boys Start the War<i> by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane <i>by Kate DiCamillo</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fancy Nancy Chapter Books <i>by Jane O'Connor</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bean and Ivy Series<i> by Annie Barrows</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I Survived Series<i> by Lauren Tarshis</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Show Must Go On<i> by Kate Klise</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Emily Windsnap Series<i> by Liz Kessler</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>HAPPY READING TO ALL!</b></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-7130316354401378952014-03-10T21:06:00.003-05:002014-03-10T21:06:30.951-05:00Happy 1st Birthday Michael!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RSHqPJ0cW0/Ux5vctNIyCI/AAAAAAAAIXY/lgNsJyyqmZU/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RSHqPJ0cW0/Ux5vctNIyCI/AAAAAAAAIXY/lgNsJyyqmZU/s1600/securedownload.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One year ago we were blessed to welcome this sweet boy into our lives! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(OK, 1 year and 3 days ago...) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W4R-cZmDQmI/UxeSelYKZtI/AAAAAAAAIWg/U8I3EcddmFk/s1600/IMG_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W4R-cZmDQmI/UxeSelYKZtI/AAAAAAAAIWg/U8I3EcddmFk/s1600/IMG_0433.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Michael is as sweet as can be and enjoys sitting back and taking in everything around him. He has been the best infant sleeper we have had and has never thought twice about eating whatever combination of peas and green beans I offer him. Michael adores Jude, who can always get a giggle out of him or cheer him up when he has his moments (mostly just when he's strapped in the car at school pick up). He loves to read. He loves any kind of ball. He loves being outside. And anything with wheels - including transformers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i6pGaNNr-wA/UxeSdu8jQqI/AAAAAAAAIWY/ykjqXxq3mUw/s1600/IMG_0940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i6pGaNNr-wA/UxeSdu8jQqI/AAAAAAAAIWY/ykjqXxq3mUw/s1600/IMG_0940.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We love you Bubs! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/04/1-month-old.html" target="_blank">1 month</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/05/mr-2-month-old.html" target="_blank">2 months</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/06/3-months.html" target="_blank">3 months</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GJPdvJ1ro7M/UxeRbor3sPI/AAAAAAAAIV0/v6fQEebKrrY/s1600/IMG_0858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GJPdvJ1ro7M/UxeRbor3sPI/AAAAAAAAIV0/v6fQEebKrrY/s1600/IMG_0858.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/07/4-months.html" target="_blank">4 months</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/08/five-months.html" target="_blank">5 months</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/09/6-months-old.html" target="_blank">6 months</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_97jPXXwe0U/UxeSfvcpleI/AAAAAAAAIWk/meDmAK7xYsM/s1600/photo+(14).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_97jPXXwe0U/UxeSfvcpleI/AAAAAAAAIWk/meDmAK7xYsM/s1600/photo+(14).JPG" height="200" width="145" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/10/7-months.html" target="_blank">7 months</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/11/8-months.html" target="_blank">8 months</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2013/12/9-months.html" target="_blank">9 months </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F_pLFggF8RM/UxeReycp9bI/AAAAAAAAIWM/YIk3MTHH5oQ/s1600/IMG_1292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F_pLFggF8RM/UxeReycp9bI/AAAAAAAAIWM/YIk3MTHH5oQ/s1600/IMG_1292.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2014/01/10-months.html" target="_blank">10 months </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2014/02/11-months.html" target="_blank">11 months </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w07gpZbdA7I/UxeTKYRwu5I/AAAAAAAAIXI/LZoYpozRmq4/s1600/IMG_1490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w07gpZbdA7I/UxeTKYRwu5I/AAAAAAAAIXI/LZoYpozRmq4/s1600/IMG_1490.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(So glad I did this because Mr. #4's baby book was looking a little slim. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Copying these milestones on paper for him...eventually.)</div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-43811503579902039992014-03-05T14:55:00.003-06:002014-03-05T14:55:39.526-06:00Lent 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1qafq5kXpRo/UxeKe7ONLzI/AAAAAAAAIUs/vxTuKcpM6d0/s1600/securedownload-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1qafq5kXpRo/UxeKe7ONLzI/AAAAAAAAIUs/vxTuKcpM6d0/s1600/securedownload-2.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This boy received his first ashes today! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Which could be mistaken as a bruise on his 11.9 month-old head.) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bcCDlGtBLVM/UxeKfABim0I/AAAAAAAAIUw/n3VqwV6ww5Y/s1600/securedownload-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bcCDlGtBLVM/UxeKfABim0I/AAAAAAAAIUw/n3VqwV6ww5Y/s1600/securedownload-3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are some of the things we are doing this Lent...</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While we were iced/snowed in on Sunday, Clare and I put together a paper chain to count down the 40 days of Lent. She added various Lenten activities on each link to do each day. (I was promoting things like "help Mom." She was writing things like "do a play of Jesus on the cross." Oh boy.)</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TvkbVto9wEY/UxeKe1JIA8I/AAAAAAAAIU0/4kkiS24FLpI/s1600/securedownload-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TvkbVto9wEY/UxeKe1JIA8I/AAAAAAAAIU0/4kkiS24FLpI/s1600/securedownload-1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I printed off <a href="http://www.catholicicing.com/lenten-activities-for-children/" target="_blank">these Lenten countdown calendars</a> for Clare, Jude, and Ellen and hung them on the fridge. Although it's only day 1 and I'm not sure if we are getting the concept since Ellen has already asked <i>several</i> times today if Lent is over yet...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DhKtEPuVltg/UxeKfg05MLI/AAAAAAAAIVA/kHToOU84464/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DhKtEPuVltg/UxeKfg05MLI/AAAAAAAAIVA/kHToOU84464/s1600/securedownload.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kids were excited to get our <a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2011/04/stations-of-cross-box.html" target="_blank">Stations of the Cross box </a>out. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EDGBoDyL-LA/UxeLUpI4dyI/AAAAAAAAIVM/W9vVA4mmlf8/s1600/DSC05785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EDGBoDyL-LA/UxeLUpI4dyI/AAAAAAAAIVM/W9vVA4mmlf8/s1600/DSC05785.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And are starting to earn <a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2011/03/bean-jar.html" target="_blank">beans for good deeds</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WBXCzwWvg24/UxeLcfK1XAI/AAAAAAAAIVU/ijNAGhDEqW4/s1600/DSC05574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WBXCzwWvg24/UxeLcfK1XAI/AAAAAAAAIVU/ijNAGhDEqW4/s1600/DSC05574.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of the things I am personally looking forward to is taking part in 40 bags in 40 days this year! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Great posts on this <a href="http://www.memoriesoncloverlane.com/2014/03/40-bags-in-40-days-basics.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.whitehouseblackshutters.com/40-bags-in-40-days-2014/" target="_blank">here</a>.) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a Blessed Lent!</div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-85310292870739755082014-02-28T06:00:00.000-06:002014-02-28T06:00:10.325-06:007 Quick Takes<div style="text-align: center;">
Coming up out of the depths with what's been going down here...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. Our week started off with a Daytona 500 win from our (Ryan's) beloved Dale Earnhardt, Jr! That's pretty much been the high of the week. Especially since the last time Dale won that race was in 2004 after we had been married about 6 weeks. I realized then what I had gotten myself into. Ha ha. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. It has actually been a pretty low-key week here, which I actually like. It's nice to be home with Ellen and Michael and not rushing about. I've actually made a few freezer meals this week (for days/weeks that are a bit more hectic), caught up on laundry, role-played Barbie in a Pony Tale more times than I care to admit, and have a full day of cleaning ahead of me today! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. Michael has learned to pull himself to a standing position and now stands everywhere and anywhere. He has also discovered the stairs which pretty much means my life is over. I'm not looking forward to resurrecting the baby gate at the bottom of the steps, but I'm also not looking forward to rescuing him off the steps 23498758 times a day...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-84nc1tTszEo/Uw_7UbIettI/AAAAAAAAIT8/p8JvNfIfk4o/s1600/securedownload-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-84nc1tTszEo/Uw_7UbIettI/AAAAAAAAIT8/p8JvNfIfk4o/s1600/securedownload-2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-82yCh_iuh1s/Uw_7USg4XtI/AAAAAAAAIUA/75NWDcSJC9g/s1600/securedownload-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-82yCh_iuh1s/Uw_7USg4XtI/AAAAAAAAIUA/75NWDcSJC9g/s1600/securedownload-3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
4. I've made 2 batches of <a href="http://www.camppatton.com/2011/07/wecipe-wednesday-bran-muffins.html" target="_blank">these muffins</a> over the past few weeks. Mostly because Post raisin bran was on sale for $1.77 a box...and Clare informed me <i>after</i> I bought <b>2 boxes</b> that she only likes the grocery store's (generic) raisin bran granola. So I've been enjoying many muffins for breakfast! And there's still an unopened box in the pantry... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. Another link to this gem that the adults in the house have watched several times... Ryan's video editing skills are impressed by this wonder. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/-YCeIgt7hMs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6. This girl. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W73AyE-fQwk/Uw_8tST8ImI/AAAAAAAAIUQ/FbAczCVcWko/s1600/securedownload-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W73AyE-fQwk/Uw_8tST8ImI/AAAAAAAAIUQ/FbAczCVcWko/s1600/securedownload-1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She's been into straightening her naturally curly blonde locks, and looks so different with her hair straight! Too funny. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(And while shopping at Target this week, we passed by this wall decor and she wanted to buy it for Ryan...because the glasses on it reminded her of her BFF.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OOqlH49fbWQ/Uw_9N_YuHxI/AAAAAAAAIUY/MUgEWOtve3A/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OOqlH49fbWQ/Uw_9N_YuHxI/AAAAAAAAIUY/MUgEWOtve3A/s1600/securedownload.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
7. Wrapping up with words a friend shared with us this week that I have heard a million times before but needed to hear again...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Never underestimate the power of prayer!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Go see <a href="http://www.conversiondiary.com/" target="_blank">Jen</a> for more!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-34238312832964186432014-02-20T06:00:00.000-06:002014-02-20T06:00:01.978-06:00Balmy<div style="text-align: center;">
We are being spoiled this week with a spell of warm weather. Daily highs have reached almost 60 degrees and the snow is a-melting! Michael, Ellen, and I have coasted around the block after lunch and my baby boy loves crawling around the deck in the sunshine. Spring/summer (baseball!) jammies have even replaced footie pj's this week. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qaHve2GbDJI/UwV0Fkp3deI/AAAAAAAAITs/JZ1blrsHKhM/s1600/IMG_1490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qaHve2GbDJI/UwV0Fkp3deI/AAAAAAAAITs/JZ1blrsHKhM/s1600/IMG_1490.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jude told me that Punxsutawney Phil was wrong and spring <b>is</b> here. He also requested his summer shorts and tees be placed in his dresser while he was at school today. (He hasn't checked the forecast for next week.) Yesterday after school he changed into shorts and a T-Shirt, but left his dark socks on with his summer attire. I'm hoping he looses those when summer officially arrives... </div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-64047344974441815822014-02-17T12:52:00.001-06:002014-02-17T12:52:51.410-06:00All Things Valentine's....<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's a quick rundown of the holiday of love at our house...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
School valentine mailboxes ready to go...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86HpF-jXVLg/UwJXaWqbPVI/AAAAAAAAIS4/SnuJihiUe_M/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86HpF-jXVLg/UwJXaWqbPVI/AAAAAAAAIS4/SnuJihiUe_M/s1600/securedownload.jpg" height="506" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our front door...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1RaJhNTYE6k/UwJW-MeVZ2I/AAAAAAAAISw/d6x1K52_rU4/s1600/DSC08142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1RaJhNTYE6k/UwJW-MeVZ2I/AAAAAAAAISw/d6x1K52_rU4/s1600/DSC08142.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How I made it <a href="http://makingitfeellikehome.blogspot.com/2012/02/tissue-paper-wreath.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kindergarten concert...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-la3zv7EayEw/UwJZ44YZLmI/AAAAAAAAITM/vzgeb4UuJaQ/s1600/LOVE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-la3zv7EayEw/UwJZ44YZLmI/AAAAAAAAITM/vzgeb4UuJaQ/s1600/LOVE.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best I could do with my camera and an ear infected 11 month old on my lap...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
How I know my husband loves me...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_L2wTPp7mOA/UwJXeEQG7yI/AAAAAAAAITA/n9LWWrxyZJw/s1600/securedownload-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_L2wTPp7mOA/UwJXeEQG7yI/AAAAAAAAITA/n9LWWrxyZJw/s1600/securedownload-1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hope your day/weekend was just as sweet!</div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-11607005092179474542014-02-07T06:00:00.000-06:002014-02-07T06:00:00.392-06:0011 Months! <div style="text-align: center;">
This sweet boy is 11 months old! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EowCtiXuELE/UvRTeME840I/AAAAAAAAIQ8/ABecWbf8l04/s1600/IMG_1400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EowCtiXuELE/UvRTeME840I/AAAAAAAAIQ8/ABecWbf8l04/s1600/IMG_1400.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Passes the Time: Loves to look out the window. The view here is snow snow snow snow. Especially loves watching older siblings playing in the snow. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Favorite Family Member: Jude! Daddy is becoming a close second. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0b33XlW6SIw/UvRW7mM9yaI/AAAAAAAAIRI/7zy726uaWek/s1600/IMG_1412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0b33XlW6SIw/UvRW7mM9yaI/AAAAAAAAIRI/7zy726uaWek/s1600/IMG_1412.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
New Favorite Posture: Kneeling! A lot! Propped up on anything he can find and even on his own! We lowered the crib a few weeks ago because of his new trick. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DmL4N-ervfI/UvRTJziwn-I/AAAAAAAAIQ0/YUvD3JT_loE/s1600/IMG_1382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DmL4N-ervfI/UvRTJziwn-I/AAAAAAAAIQ0/YUvD3JT_loE/s1600/IMG_1382.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Also Seen: Crawling on all fours as opposed to his fastest method of transportation, the army crawl. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sleeps: Morning nap and afternoon nap. (And I love that both are uninterrupted on snow days!) Usually up once around 1AM to nurse during the night. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Favorite Foods: Loves noodles, especially spaghetti. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Entertainment: Likes to "dance" to music. Loves to clap. Can do "SO BIG!" </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Loves to: Snuggle. Especially in the morning and after naps. Such a sweet sweet boy. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't believe we will celebrate his 1st birthday next month! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-29915739917459240652014-02-03T06:30:00.000-06:002014-02-03T06:30:02.336-06:00Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Dip<div style="text-align: center;">
Of course we went to a Superbowl Shindig last night and <strike>watched the game</strike> ate yummy food with friends like good Americans. One of the things I brought was Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Dip which was scraped clean out of the bowl. (And who would have thought that my non-chocolate-loving husband gave it 2 thumbs up. Go me.) But seriously, this stuff is G-O-O-D! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TPR5DQWKk4E/Uu8UvD5qJ7I/AAAAAAAAIQk/B-4UXrVMPeo/s1600/chochipdip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TPR5DQWKk4E/Uu8UvD5qJ7I/AAAAAAAAIQk/B-4UXrVMPeo/s1600/chochipdip.jpg" height="640" width="465" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 8oz. package of cream cheese (not fat free)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 stick of unsalted butter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2/3 cup owdered sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup of mini chocolate Chips</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Soften cream cheese and butter. Mix all ingredients (except chocolate chips) on low speed with hand mixer until smooth. Gently stir in chocolate chips. Refrigerate for one hour. Serve with graham crackers. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-71589506882750332292014-02-02T14:24:00.001-06:002014-02-02T14:24:26.636-06:00Superbowl Sunday Forecast<div style="text-align: center;">
By Clare</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G-X6Q6Mt1sE/Uu6SKcGKwxI/AAAAAAAAIQQ/f-3QoTYIVOk/s1600/forecast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G-X6Q6Mt1sE/Uu6SKcGKwxI/AAAAAAAAIQQ/f-3QoTYIVOk/s1600/forecast.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Are you cold? Temperatures lately have been dropping. It is very icy, too. I vet you are shivering right now. It's so cold that I think that I think that the ice will cause a freeze. Icicles have formed on roofs. We do have a chance of snow! I hope so! Snow keep your hopes up!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's the epitome of holidays here today - Groundhog Day AND the Superbowl on the SAME DAY?!? That probably only happens once in a billion years. So we are celebrating it up! Happy Sunday!</div>
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-77841318628103556782014-01-27T06:00:00.000-06:002014-01-27T06:00:02.509-06:00A Mother's Prayer<div style="text-align: center;">
Someone shared this prayer at my MOPS meeting last week and I thought I would pass it on...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Monday! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Fingers crossed for no snow days this week!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>A Mother's Prayer</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lord, give me strength just for </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To lead my children in Your way.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, give me wisdom, Lord, and grace</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To show to them Your precious face!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And help me, Lord, to teach them, too,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The things of Christ so rich and true.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just let them see in me, dear Lord,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your holiness in life and word.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep me from sinning with my tongue,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From harsh, quick words that might have stung.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Their tender hearts that trust me so</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And watch to see which way I go.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dear Father, keep my thoughts so pure</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That they will always know for sure</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Lord has lead me all the way.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lord, grant my prayer just for today.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Author Unknown</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-49546058615809563482014-01-26T21:12:00.001-06:002014-01-26T21:12:20.269-06:00Weekend Update<div style="text-align: center;">
Popping in for our big news this weekend...Clare made her First Reconciliation on Saturday morning! We are so proud of how she prepared herself for the sacrament. (She has been practicing the Act of Contrition every night since the last day of 1st grade - maybe too much because last night Ellen prayed it saying: "Oh my God I am heartly sorry for having offended anyone named Clare.")</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On Saturday morning, Clare wore the same bracelet she wore on her Baptism - a gift from my parents that has a cross and miraculous medal on it. Each child was given a book about Reconciliation to complete after they had been to confession. The prayer that Clare wrote said, "I felt so happy when I left confession. I want to go back again!" </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-suMCHF3cpUw/UuSQJh0IvRI/AAAAAAAAIPw/FjdlL_0qClU/s1600/1625634_10151910989097536_2091195538_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-suMCHF3cpUw/UuSQJh0IvRI/AAAAAAAAIPw/FjdlL_0qClU/s1600/1625634_10151910989097536_2091195538_n.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Afterwards, we celebrated the occasion with a fro-yo stop...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JF7MmOWCLA/UuXOf2nMSDI/AAAAAAAAIQA/syocm4HKsTA/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JF7MmOWCLA/UuXOf2nMSDI/AAAAAAAAIQA/syocm4HKsTA/s1600/securedownload.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up - First Holy Communion on May 17!</div>
<br />
<br />
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-5808073601898556882014-01-24T21:56:00.001-06:002014-01-24T21:56:05.589-06:00Mother - Daughter<div style="text-align: center;">
Ellen has a habit of playing with things in pairs. A mother and a daughter combination, one big and one small. Any small object needs a mother and any large object needs a child. And when I say things I mean <i>any</i>thing... Here are some combinations I found around the house this week...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-424K5VKn7u0/UuMwZWxPsgI/AAAAAAAAIPQ/eGXgDI7tuBc/s1600/securedownload-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-424K5VKn7u0/UuMwZWxPsgI/AAAAAAAAIPQ/eGXgDI7tuBc/s1600/securedownload-2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCuPGFusDFw/UuMxLSTH-PI/AAAAAAAAIPY/RVKomeNINZE/s1600/pencils.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCuPGFusDFw/UuMxLSTH-PI/AAAAAAAAIPY/RVKomeNINZE/s1600/pencils.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-INtp8kHYO_E/UuMxLSwroMI/AAAAAAAAIPc/cX-oHvWsRgs/s1600/rosary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-INtp8kHYO_E/UuMxLSwroMI/AAAAAAAAIPc/cX-oHvWsRgs/s1600/rosary.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
She's too funny for her own good! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Weekend!</div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-89617703914037902122014-01-21T13:45:00.000-06:002014-01-21T13:45:18.464-06:00Microwave {Air-Popped} Popcorn<div style="text-align: center;">
We have <i>another</i> snow day today and I had requests at 10 AM for our current favorite snack - popcorn. Instead of making it on the stove, I made it quick and in a smaller portion for Jude in the microwave. Less mess and a bit healthier than cooking with oil.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8LngzyKilcA/Ut7OC6xk3-I/AAAAAAAAIOw/bfo_hkne71Q/s1600/popcorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8LngzyKilcA/Ut7OC6xk3-I/AAAAAAAAIOw/bfo_hkne71Q/s1600/popcorn.jpg" height="640" width="526" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I put 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels in a brown lunch bag. Close the bag by folding over the top a few times. Then, for our microwave, I pop it for 2 minutes. Add on salt and our favorite white cheddar, and it's good to go! </div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-13682264549613928642014-01-15T20:53:00.001-06:002014-01-15T20:53:33.159-06:00Thought for the Day...<div style="text-align: center;">
I saw this quote the other day and liked it...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3PNfep3ReNo/UtdJVMhzsrI/AAAAAAAAIOM/4B9ecUy_BUA/s1600/monarch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3PNfep3ReNo/UtdJVMhzsrI/AAAAAAAAIOM/4B9ecUy_BUA/s1600/monarch.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-46549855354278939012014-01-14T06:35:00.003-06:002014-01-14T06:35:52.420-06:00The Things He Says/They Say...<div style="text-align: center;">
Jude when asked how he had such amazing (interesting) dance moves one night:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Remember if you drink those Capri Sun waters? Well I drank one of those..."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Why is Michael wearing farmer clothes?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QTb1teXhB2w/UtSdL2AZM4I/AAAAAAAAINs/lAXdlYLRLQI/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QTb1teXhB2w/UtSdL2AZM4I/AAAAAAAAINs/lAXdlYLRLQI/s640/securedownload.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Is that his new pajamas?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-428LC1vbACo/UtSdwvvST0I/AAAAAAAAIN0/JbhVnteddDc/s1600/securedownload-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-428LC1vbACo/UtSdwvvST0I/AAAAAAAAIN0/JbhVnteddDc/s400/securedownload-2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And from Ellen:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"I just want more of that black stuff (hot fudge)."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">"Jude, if you do that again...I'm going to...to...<b>PUNCH YOU IN THE FACE</b>!"</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">While wearing my glasses:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">"I'm just walking on all of these hills."</span></div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-21936508981452595062014-01-08T21:38:00.001-06:002014-01-08T21:41:23.326-06:00FIVE FAVS!<div style="text-align: center;">
Linking up at <a href="http://moxiewife.com/" target="_blank">Hallie's</a> with some of our current favorites.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Kernal Seasons White Cheddar Popcorn Seasoning. </b><br />
<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CajqAznrSBc/Us4T5AgrPcI/AAAAAAAAINQ/XaVUSrFhr8E/s1600/89-large_default.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CajqAznrSBc/Us4T5AgrPcI/AAAAAAAAINQ/XaVUSrFhr8E/s1600/89-large_default.jpg" height="400" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kernelseasons.com/product/popcorn-seasonings/24-white-cheddar-seasoning.html" target="_blank">image</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />We have been on a popcorn kick lately and it was my mother-in-law who introduced us to white cheddar a few months ago. So yummy! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>2. The Oball - by Rhino Toys. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T4LijGz4kcY/UsYfsUxz9RI/AAAAAAAAILg/esMztf0tLXs/s1600/14019797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T4LijGz4kcY/UsYfsUxz9RI/AAAAAAAAILg/esMztf0tLXs/s320/14019797.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.target.com/p/rhino-toys-oball-football/-/A-14019797#prodSlot=dlp_medium_1_11&term=o+ball" target="_blank">image</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My 3 month old nephews introduced Michael to these balls while we were in town over Christmas and he loved them. Once we were back home I headed to Target and picked one up for Michael. They are the perfect size/shape and easy for even a 3 month old to play with. We have several big Oball fans in our family! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>3. <a href="http://www.landolakes.com/recipe/264/praline-nut-crunch" target="_blank">Praline Nut Crunch Chex Mix</a>.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1L-0saPaC4/Us4WVNvHxTI/AAAAAAAAINc/EBSGbSZO_jQ/s1600/praline-nut-crunch-10909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1L-0saPaC4/Us4WVNvHxTI/AAAAAAAAINc/EBSGbSZO_jQ/s1600/praline-nut-crunch-10909.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.landolakes.com/recipe/264/praline-nut-crunch" target="_blank">image</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We made this Chex Mix for Christmas and my goodness it was delish! (Recipe found <a href="http://www.landolakes.com/recipe/264/praline-nut-crunch" target="_blank">here</a>.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>4. Good neighbors.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were snowed in Sunday until Tuesday of this week and ended up with several spontaneous get-togethers with our neighbors. So thankful to have such good people living close by!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>5. This video. (Get your kleenex out.) </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/EEPHLC6dMGA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jude and Ellen have a small obsession with baby Ward. They can probably be credited with about half the hits this video has received. So sweet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-63000124072601853402014-01-07T08:49:00.000-06:002014-01-07T08:49:09.855-06:0010 MONTHS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bWyl5G5Er90/UsuSqKn4aKI/AAAAAAAAIM0/HXLoO4ZHKJY/s1600/photo+(82).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bWyl5G5Er90/UsuSqKn4aKI/AAAAAAAAIM0/HXLoO4ZHKJY/s1600/photo+(82).JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I cannot believe this baby boy is 2 months away from his 1st birthday! It seems like it was just yesterday I was starring down at my big belly wondering when he was going to make his debut! Michael has been a bit more daring lately and is starting to pull himself up onto the bottom step and has also made his way into the cabinets more than once. And so the "fun" really begins!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f-jkQOG2b-M/UsuSqQW34aI/AAAAAAAAIMw/IsoeMAzu4KY/s1600/photo+(83).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f-jkQOG2b-M/UsuSqQW34aI/AAAAAAAAIMw/IsoeMAzu4KY/s1600/photo+(83).JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And his fans love his "model" pose...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Weight: 23 lbs., 2 oz.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Height: 29 inches<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Eating: Thinks he is a big boy eating more table foods and feeding himself. Especially loves breakfast time. (Maybe because he is perched in the high chair with a good view of the morning action.)<br />
<br />
Starting to enjoy: Books, especially ones with "touch and feel" pages.<br />
<br />
Newest feat: Going from an army crawling to sitting position on his own.<br />
<br />
Latest accomplishment: Growing more hair. Mostly on the sides and over his ears sporting a bit of a Bozo the Clown do. <br />
<br />
Disposition: Still very sweet and always snuggly.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-45709770067220573092014-01-06T06:00:00.000-06:002014-01-06T06:00:02.831-06:00Snow Ice Cream<div style="text-align: center;">
We are part of the snowpocalyspe that has hit the US of A. (So much that our Christmas break is continuing an extra day today...) A friend sent us this Ice Cream Snow recipe and we made it after dinner last night. Jude gave it 2 bouncing thumbs up (a sign he really <i>really</i> likes something). And making it broke our cabin fever for a few minutes! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCVYxFZdNus/UsosGhK2rLI/AAAAAAAAIMg/nA7H2gXc320/s1600/snowcream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCVYxFZdNus/UsosGhK2rLI/AAAAAAAAIMg/nA7H2gXc320/s1600/snowcream.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4 cups of fresh snow </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup of milk or cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and enjoy!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Plenty of snow here to make more tonight!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-72470997338772394512014-01-03T23:37:00.001-06:002014-01-03T23:37:45.524-06:007 Quickies For Today/Tonight/Whatever Day it is...<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Friday! (At least I think - these mid-week holidays have my internal clock confused!) Playing a late night catch-up with <a href="http://www.conversiondiary.com/" target="_blank">Jen</a>...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. Before Christmas break, Jude received the coveted "Sunshine Award" in music class. He was VERY excited to share the news when he got in the car that day after school. Although from the teacher's comment (and from his reenactment), I'm wondering if his sleigh bell ringing was similar to <a href="http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/more-cowbell/n41046/" target="_blank">the cow bell</a>...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vk4ULL4CEtY/Uo7ArfXkXFI/AAAAAAAAIHA/K-_ixCYLENY/s1600/photo+(69).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vk4ULL4CEtY/Uo7ArfXkXFI/AAAAAAAAIHA/K-_ixCYLENY/s640/photo+(69).JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2. Moving onto child #3... Lately Ellen has been saying the Act of Contrition in the morning before breakfast in place of Grace. A slight foreshadowing that it will be needed for the day ahead...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table 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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NoFtqmJvd1U/UsY367yz8-I/AAAAAAAAILw/5fxwCMK4r48/s1600/1209039_10151653232002536_1941904411_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NoFtqmJvd1U/UsY367yz8-I/AAAAAAAAILw/5fxwCMK4r48/s400/1209039_10151653232002536_1941904411_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sharing my morning coffee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. And now news about #4... Over the past week Mr. Michael has begun to move vertically and not just horizontally. He's propped himself up on the bottom step several times and has also made his way into cabinets a few times now. And so the fun begins! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SL6NGTAuEMY/Usedsqfhn8I/AAAAAAAAIMQ/JZprsGjK7Ow/s1600/1560486_10151868691172536_614573600_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SL6NGTAuEMY/Usedsqfhn8I/AAAAAAAAIMQ/JZprsGjK7Ow/s640/1560486_10151868691172536_614573600_n.jpg" width="526" /></a></div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. We've seen a fair share of snow so far this winter. And I'm beginning to think my kids' obsession with <i>eating</i> snow is borderline unhealthy. One big snowfall (about 8+ inches) happened about 12 hours after Ryan had knee surgery a few weeks ago. Our good friends thoughtfully offered to help shovel our driveway. Ryan joked that our kids could probably eat enough of the snow to clear the driveway - similar to ants lifting 50 times their body weight, our kids could probably <b>eat</b> 50 times their weight in snow. (Don't worry - I did the shoveling and no children or ants were harmed in doing so.) </div>
<div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
5. With the fresh start of a new year (and with new Christmas goodies in our home) I'm copying off of my sister and have embarked on a 30 bags in 30 days mission. So it's day 3 and I have 4 bags for Goodwill, 1 bag of treasure chest donations for the classroom (that Clare and Jude are NOT students in!), and 2 bags in the trash. I love a good purge! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6. And of course I am very much looking forward to Downton on Sunday night! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table 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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUNgFNTLEtc/UseQl-piYCI/AAAAAAAAIMA/dkGN0tERjTQ/s1600/downton-abbey-season-4-cast-photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="326" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUNgFNTLEtc/UseQl-piYCI/AAAAAAAAIMA/dkGN0tERjTQ/s640/downton-abbey-season-4-cast-photo.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hypable.com/2013/08/13/downton-abbey-series-4-cast-photo/" target="_blank">image</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
7. Have a great weekend and stay warm wherever you are! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-65741780128950426062014-01-01T22:50:00.003-06:002014-01-01T22:50:54.854-06:002014<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy New Year! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The 6 of us celebrated with friends (and cousins!) and still made it home by 10PM. :) </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HgFb_ncsRg/UsTvWl0L8zI/AAAAAAAAILQ/isRRt7xCFQA/s1600/photo+(80).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HgFb_ncsRg/UsTvWl0L8zI/AAAAAAAAILQ/isRRt7xCFQA/s640/photo+(80).JPG" width="292" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">We were out of town for Christmas (enjoying new baby cousins!), so things are slowly getting back to normal around here. Gifts have found new homes, laundry is mostly caught up, and the fridge and pantry are restocked (as best I can when Jude is home from school). I have my new calendars and have been penciling in all the important dates we have this year...from Michael's 1st Birthday in March (-sniff-) to Clare's First Communion in May. Looking forward to what lies ahead! Many wishes for a Happy 2014! </span></div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-87410140256555590532013-12-10T20:56:00.000-06:002013-12-10T20:56:03.285-06:0010 on 10<div style="text-align: center;">
Linking up tonight with <a href="http://www.rebekahgough.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Rebekah</a> for 10 pictures from our 10th day of December...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6ish</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tree lights are always the first lights on.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NZ-1zJ7dYaQ/UqfPS5lcKSI/AAAAAAAAIJA/PefIFG8yOcg/s1600/IMG_1300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NZ-1zJ7dYaQ/UqfPS5lcKSI/AAAAAAAAIJA/PefIFG8yOcg/s640/IMG_1300.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
7ish</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I will never grow tired of these pudgy hands!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1C3AcNfSQ9E/UqfPSFz52hI/AAAAAAAAII8/nMYYW_hb1TU/s1600/IMG_1308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1C3AcNfSQ9E/UqfPSFz52hI/AAAAAAAAII8/nMYYW_hb1TU/s640/IMG_1308.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
9ish</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Story hour craft by Ellen.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s7yklUU6Awc/UqfPbLnmyjI/AAAAAAAAIJk/DxxAedM17GI/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s7yklUU6Awc/UqfPbLnmyjI/AAAAAAAAIJk/DxxAedM17GI/s640/IMG_1321.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
11AM </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New library books (and books on tape and DVDs) for all to enjoy.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUFb8dmmUj8/UqfPZ1eVJWI/AAAAAAAAIJc/l4wtiKJe9-k/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUFb8dmmUj8/UqfPZ1eVJWI/AAAAAAAAIJc/l4wtiKJe9-k/s640/IMG_1320.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Noon</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lunchtime!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10rdOTg-ayw/UqfPYs_f35I/AAAAAAAAIJU/_9f-E1aEsAQ/s1600/IMG_1318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10rdOTg-ayw/UqfPYs_f35I/AAAAAAAAIJU/_9f-E1aEsAQ/s640/IMG_1318.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2 or so...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A lovely gift from friends in the afternoon sunshine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-at0oFJG78tE/UqfPTGVXEPI/AAAAAAAAIJE/vGrqFtMbKE0/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-at0oFJG78tE/UqfPTGVXEPI/AAAAAAAAIJE/vGrqFtMbKE0/s640/IMG_1315.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3PM</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunshine in office - real life still life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rQo5-t5Fpeg/UqfTrd2FzuI/AAAAAAAAIKk/K7uP4PchUME/s1600/photo+(79).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rQo5-t5Fpeg/UqfTrd2FzuI/AAAAAAAAIKk/K7uP4PchUME/s640/photo+(79).JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
5PM </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Love the quote for February on this gift-to-be calendar that arrived today.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciyb7B9DoIU/UqfSZOF_SWI/AAAAAAAAIKQ/6AQIgCLx8Lg/s1600/photo+(77).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciyb7B9DoIU/UqfSZOF_SWI/AAAAAAAAIKQ/6AQIgCLx8Lg/s640/photo+(77).JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;"> </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
6 PM </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bubbles for the baby while Mommy washes dinner dishes. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KyGI9E1m2UQ/UqfPc3JnIwI/AAAAAAAAIJs/YxnxCmX8NRg/s1600/IMG_1323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KyGI9E1m2UQ/UqfPc3JnIwI/AAAAAAAAIJs/YxnxCmX8NRg/s640/IMG_1323.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
7 PM </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sister snuggle under the Christmas quilt.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dE9WgyGLuq8/UqfSZNHPgdI/AAAAAAAAIKU/G2Wn7dW2oio/s1600/photo+(78).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dE9WgyGLuq8/UqfSZNHPgdI/AAAAAAAAIKU/G2Wn7dW2oio/s640/photo+(78).JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hope you had a wonderful day!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631409953304217792.post-67177823851072748062013-12-08T21:45:00.002-06:002013-12-08T21:45:37.904-06:009 Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Michael turned 9 months old on Saturday! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvzj9U7YGJw/UqU6FeajMYI/AAAAAAAAIIo/izRWhYuoRqM/s1600/IMG_1292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvzj9U7YGJw/UqU6FeajMYI/AAAAAAAAIIo/izRWhYuoRqM/s640/IMG_1292.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bathtime = splashtime!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Teeth: Has 5, working on #6</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Says: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Da-da" = Daddy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Juuuuuuuu" = Jude</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Na-na" = Wants to nurse and go to bed</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New Foods: puffs in any flavor, but especially likes banana ones...and has <b>enjoyed</b> vanilla wafers!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mobility: Army crawls on his belly, pushing off with his right toe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New Look: Growing (a little bit of) hair. He's a blondie. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Size: Anywhere from 6 month - 24 months.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Loves: Jude</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tolerates: Ellen as a playmate, especially if that means being in any "hideout" with her.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We love our Bubbs!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />TRICIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312759724570734304noreply@blogger.com0