tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29884436942495299232024-03-13T08:16:38.987-04:00Studio LIME DesignKatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.comBlogger533125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-56727514138605654352013-12-15T07:51:00.003-05:002013-12-15T07:51:51.771-05:00{Christmas} Xmas Cards 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sLBnmpqworY/Uq2i4OBkI8I/AAAAAAAAFh8/d9X0LbgLo3g/s1600/IMG_2389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sLBnmpqworY/Uq2i4OBkI8I/AAAAAAAAFh8/d9X0LbgLo3g/s400/IMG_2389.JPG" /></a></div>Today I'm sharing my Christmas cards. This fall I took a picture of my babies on a beautiful day and threw in a few little props. The red wreath hangs on my door for the Christmas season, and the turquoise stool is a Home Goods find that is used in the bathroom so Dean can reach his toothbrush and turn on and off the water at the sink. <br />
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I took over 50 pictures, and there was NOT ONE with both of my children making eye contact with the camera and looking semi cute. So, I settled on this picture. You can't even see my baby girl's little face, but there is something sweet about her with the stool, so I went with it. And hey, it's real. My kids will barely look at the camera for a picture, and if they do, it's a miracle. To get a smile on top of eye contact is a rarity! So, this is real life with my littles ;-}<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fc6yCBxshm0/Uq2i9vA1diI/AAAAAAAAFiE/BAf4X-WerPs/s1600/IMG_2386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fc6yCBxshm0/Uq2i9vA1diI/AAAAAAAAFiE/BAf4X-WerPs/s400/IMG_2386.JPG" /></a></div>I incorporated red and turquoise on the wrap labels this year. Off they went in the mail last week. Now, onto finishing my shopping, wrapping gifts, preparing a menu for Christmas brunch, etc. Busy, busy! Enjoy your Christmas!Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-31944016259046659532013-11-13T06:43:00.001-05:002013-11-13T06:43:11.564-05:00{Parties} Drew Rebecca's First Birthday<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MkCUhduOmaw/UoLuCea5DaI/AAAAAAAAFek/ea0il3FkhyM/s1600/IMG_2259.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MkCUhduOmaw/UoLuCea5DaI/AAAAAAAAFek/ea0il3FkhyM/s400/IMG_2259.JPG" /></a><br />
On Sunday, November 10th, we threw our little girl a first birthday party. I was going for simple, feminine details with a rustic flare. To start, I lined the mirror on my buffet table with burlap and lace and added a large print of Drew at her cake smash with <a href="http://karencarpenterphotography.com">Karen Carpenter Photography</a>. I also added a shimmery beaded lantern and kept the branches with hanging crystals that usually sits atop my buffet. Lastly, Karen lent me the doily banner attached to the front of my buffet. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i3JFexokwWM/UoLuIemxu7I/AAAAAAAAFes/izh8owNFUOQ/s1600/IMG_2270.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i3JFexokwWM/UoLuIemxu7I/AAAAAAAAFes/izh8owNFUOQ/s400/IMG_2270.JPG" /></a><br />
Next, I hung a branch from my backyard above the buffet and used rustic/natural looking ornaments and a mason jar lantern to adorn the branch. I still haven't taken it down because it transitioned nicely to compliment my Thanksgiving decor. <br />
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I love this chalkboard and use it constantly to decorate and add appeal to the buffet. It changes monthly depending on the season and/or holiday. I saw this first birthday idea on Pinterest and made it my own with Drew's stats and favorites. <br />
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On the 13th of every month, I take Drew's picture with the same little chalkboard and a white onesie. I will take her last picture in a few hours :-((( I love seeing how she changes every month and made a banner with the pictures to display for the party. You can't tell from the picture, but I used mini clothespins to hold the pictures in place that I glittered using pink shimmer dust/glitter. They looked so cute!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kwA7S39jxJk/UoLuo_aCtYI/AAAAAAAAFfE/oz6lq-TwaMo/s1600/IMG_2261.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kwA7S39jxJk/UoLuo_aCtYI/AAAAAAAAFfE/oz6lq-TwaMo/s400/IMG_2261.JPG" /></a><br />
I made Drew's birthday cake. It was a vanilla cake with vanilla frosting. I used a cake mix right out of a box, and you know what? It was darn good! Ha! I used a heart shaped cake pan for my little "love's" cake. Mmmm. The simple burlap heart toppers and the pink glittered number 1 were also crafted by mommy. <br />
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My little girlfriend ate every little drop of her cupcake. She licked her fingers too! The burlap topper I made for her cake smash with Karen and just reused it for her party. No use reinventing the wheel ;-}<br />
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The Occasional Cookie made the yummy cookies that sat on either side of the cake. There were hearts and #1's, and they were delicious.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lofqwQP_fU/UoLu-rNqtOI/AAAAAAAAFfc/LUcCsk6t0P0/s1600/IMG_2269.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lofqwQP_fU/UoLu-rNqtOI/AAAAAAAAFfc/LUcCsk6t0P0/s400/IMG_2269.JPG" /></a><br />
I wish this picture wasn't blurry because these favor bags were adorable. <a href="http://shoptomkat.com/">The TomKat Studio's mini muslin bags</a> were the perfect little treat sack that I filled with pink shimmery gumballs {also from TomKat}. I cut out a heart and used the pattern to make the glittered heart on each bag. These would be adorable for Valentine's Day too.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P3z6Go1yCBg/UoLvUqyId4I/AAAAAAAAFfk/66TajXgWF40/s1600/IMG_2276.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P3z6Go1yCBg/UoLvUqyId4I/AAAAAAAAFfk/66TajXgWF40/s400/IMG_2276.JPG" /></a><br />
My mantle was also all about Drew. I decorated with a burlap wreath and banner I made and added some other little details like her homemade party hat {made with scrapbook paper, elastic, feathers, and a good hot glue gun ;-}. Karen also made the cutest little collage of Drew's cake smash that now sits on a shelf in her bedroom. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pOAbn_YkouY/UoNj0pYdeVI/AAAAAAAAFgM/96RRzxlsGQs/s1600/IMG_2254.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pOAbn_YkouY/UoNj0pYdeVI/AAAAAAAAFgM/96RRzxlsGQs/s400/IMG_2254.jpg" /></a><br />
Another Pinterest knockoff here ;-} I used a wooden dowel, an empty wrapping paper tube, kraft paper, and ribbon to construct and hang "A Year of Firsts." I printed pictures of all Drew's "firsts" from her first year of life and displayed them for the party guests to view. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KUwJM4HtV70/UoLveOXHivI/AAAAAAAAFfs/p8zWev3C0As/s1600/IMG_2300.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KUwJM4HtV70/UoLveOXHivI/AAAAAAAAFfs/p8zWev3C0As/s400/IMG_2300.JPG" /></a><br />
My kitchen island was filled to the brim with yummy sandwiches, pasta salad, fruit salad, chips, pickles, and all kinds of drinks. I've thrown parties where I've served dinner, breakfast/brunch and now lunch. Lunch is the easiest!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5T7hmTnuMzU/UoLviynOK8I/AAAAAAAAFf0/W4Z0UOIQQZI/s1600/IMG_2285.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5T7hmTnuMzU/UoLviynOK8I/AAAAAAAAFf0/W4Z0UOIQQZI/s400/IMG_2285.JPG" /></a><br />
You can't go wrong with veggies and dip. I put my dip inside a hollowed out half head of red cabbage {as seen on Pinterest}. Sidenote: I used the leftover cabbage to make a very simple, yummy, and healthy side dish for my family the other night. Even Drew liked it! I may post it soon.<br />
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My sweet sweet birthday girl. I just cherish this little one. Happy Birthday, baby girl. XOXOXOX.Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-2232208770678832032013-10-24T20:58:00.000-04:002013-10-24T21:01:52.802-04:00{Giving} Halloween Treat<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-axlR8XhssE4/Umm-9b6uMKI/AAAAAAAAFdE/ISOhQKk-R9o/s1600/IMG_1907.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-axlR8XhssE4/Umm-9b6uMKI/AAAAAAAAFdE/ISOhQKk-R9o/s400/IMG_1907.JPG" /></a><br />
My little man brought in a simple teacher treat to preschool this week in honor of Halloween. Dean loves ALL sweets, so we decided to share one of his favorites with his teachers this year.<br />
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I have bottles of all shapes and sizes that I collect, so we found the appropriate size and filled them with candy corn. Then I cut burlap squares, frayed the edges a little, grabbed some orange and black twine and made some make-shift lids for the bottles. Then I attached a quick tag I made. <br />
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Super simple! Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-69266345643253398622013-10-22T22:08:00.002-04:002013-10-22T22:13:27.414-04:00{Invitations} Drew Rebecca's First Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JSjNBzh9h90/Umcp87SoHcI/AAAAAAAAFcE/5ovN0ydDqeU/s1600/IMG_1899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JSjNBzh9h90/Umcp87SoHcI/AAAAAAAAFcE/5ovN0ydDqeU/s400/IMG_1899.JPG" /></a><br />
My baby girl's FIRST birthday is approaching quickly...AHHH! I'm not sure how it's been a whole year already, but it has and a party is in the works. I made Drew a first birthday invitation similar to her <a href="http://limedesign-kate.blogspot.com/2011/01/invitations-deans-1st-birthday.html">big brother's first birthday invitation</a>. I chose to make a card that opens to display her picture on the left and the party details on the right. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8b-aG64sL0/UmcqBOB9DsI/AAAAAAAAFcM/8P075GO3Spw/s1600/IMG_1904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8b-aG64sL0/UmcqBOB9DsI/AAAAAAAAFcM/8P075GO3Spw/s400/IMG_1904.JPG" /></a><br />
My friend Karen {<a href="http://karencarpenterphotography.com">Karen Carpenter Photography</a>} took Drew's first birthday pictures a few weeks ago, and I love them! I choose one of the close-ups of her sweet face for the invite. I am going to try and keep this birthday party on the simple side with girly touches like pink and lace, and also touches of burlap for a little rustic flare. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HBZDuFz4WVs/UmcqMEbb-II/AAAAAAAAFcU/quy22OeZ1BI/s1600/IMG_1898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HBZDuFz4WVs/UmcqMEbb-II/AAAAAAAAFcU/quy22OeZ1BI/s400/IMG_1898.JPG" /></a><br />
The front of the card is simple as well, with a cut-out of a burlap #1. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xd8jMNMHFi0/UmcqR_DrfNI/AAAAAAAAFcc/b1Y-IhNB3OU/s1600/IMG_1894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xd8jMNMHFi0/UmcqR_DrfNI/AAAAAAAAFcc/b1Y-IhNB3OU/s400/IMG_1894.JPG" /></a><br />
I usually always make wrap labels, but my little girl's birthday kind of crept up on me, and I didn't have time. No biggie....I ditched the wraps for burlap hearts and my own hand-writing. I also hand delivered the invites to my family, so addresses weren't needed. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dmeZKoqWfJg/UmcqWhZiqzI/AAAAAAAAFck/GWdVkDUbF1I/s1600/IMG_1892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dmeZKoqWfJg/UmcqWhZiqzI/AAAAAAAAFck/GWdVkDUbF1I/s400/IMG_1892.JPG" /></a></div>Our little "LOVE" is almost one. Stay tuned for her birthday party details! <br />
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**I made a simple Halloween treat for my son's preschool teachers that I will share by the end of the week. Check back in soon! <br />
**Our mini-getaway is almost here. Goodness, I can't wait! I'm anxious about leaving my babies, but so so excited to have a little time with my hubby ;-}<br />
**Have I mentioned that I've taken up running again, and I'm feeling better than I have in a long time?! I'm running a 5 mile race this weekend...nervous and excited! It's a far cry from the miles I used to log back in my running prime, but hey, I'm closer to 40 than I am 30 these days, so I'm just proud of myself for getting back in the game so to speak ;-} Wish me luck!Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-87252249853460530852013-09-17T22:12:00.000-04:002013-09-17T22:12:36.548-04:00{Parties} Travel Themed Adoption Shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Phdj7da8mjs/UjZji9qBpJI/AAAAAAAAFaY/QxHlULehyAg/s1600/IMG_1567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Phdj7da8mjs/UjZji9qBpJI/AAAAAAAAFaY/QxHlULehyAg/s320/IMG_1567.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My mom, sis, and I threw together a shower for my sister-in-law, Jane, in a matter of a few weeks. Because Jane and my brother, Rob, will be traveling to Africa {the Democratic Republic of the Congo to be specific} to adopt their boys, the date of the shower was unknown until they received word from their adoption agency that the adoption was a "go." Their travel plans are still not set in stone, but we're hoping and praying they can get their boys very soon. A few more details still need to fall into place. <br />
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Because Rob and Jane will be traveling so very far for their boys, I thought it'd be cute to add some travel touches to the dessert table. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YZ-D-gXEgM/UjZkS9uIq4I/AAAAAAAAFao/Q-iFfUqsLL4/s1600/IMG_1574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YZ-D-gXEgM/UjZkS9uIq4I/AAAAAAAAFao/Q-iFfUqsLL4/s320/IMG_1574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Let's talk business first. Enter in dessert. Michelle of The Occasional Cookie made the adorable and delicious cookies for the dessert spread. She used my invitation as inspiration and created the cutout of Africa for one kind of cookie.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KE3J_rktfZ4/UjZjzz1kFKI/AAAAAAAAFak/zcP0A1xQDTk/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KE3J_rktfZ4/UjZjzz1kFKI/AAAAAAAAFak/zcP0A1xQDTk/s320/IMG_1572.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The other cookies were little African boys' faces. I mean seriously. HOW CUTE! The pic is a little blurry but if these weren't the cutest things. I couldn't even eat one, it was so adorable. I tried the Africa one instead ha!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgwAnjcYEek/UjZkxmEL75I/AAAAAAAAFa0/jzeoi-Wj9fg/s1600/IMG_1575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgwAnjcYEek/UjZkxmEL75I/AAAAAAAAFa0/jzeoi-Wj9fg/s320/IMG_1575.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My mom also ordered yummy cupcakes from Country Sweets, and I made flag toppers. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcDpHXkLIqc/Uji-gFPAREI/AAAAAAAAFbU/2aSVGtER2zM/s1600/IMG_1581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcDpHXkLIqc/Uji-gFPAREI/AAAAAAAAFbU/2aSVGtER2zM/s320/IMG_1581.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Back to details now. The backdrop for the table was a variety of frames and and old window. Inside one of the frames, I hung a sign that I made that said, "Africa, here we come!"<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NlAtK520XJE/Uji-r_tdU5I/AAAAAAAAFbc/oCuuuaeteyk/s1600/IMG_1582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NlAtK520XJE/Uji-r_tdU5I/AAAAAAAAFbc/oCuuuaeteyk/s320/IMG_1582.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>The other frame held a cutout of Africa that I crafted using scrapbook paper. I added a heart in the place where the Congo is.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCz0Njuslnc/Uji-68x6l8I/AAAAAAAAFbk/TKs__fQzhAg/s1600/IMG_1585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCz0Njuslnc/Uji-68x6l8I/AAAAAAAAFbk/TKs__fQzhAg/s320/IMG_1585.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I love this old window. Using more scrapbook papers, I made a bunting that I hung from the window. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lxM_myiL6eA/Uji9smlgQBI/AAAAAAAAFbE/SAEJcWiYVgk/s1600/IMG_1576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lxM_myiL6eA/Uji9smlgQBI/AAAAAAAAFbE/SAEJcWiYVgk/s320/IMG_1576.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>When my little man, Dean, turned one, I ordered these suitcases for his dessert table. If they weren't perfect for our travel themed table, I don't know what was. Inside, I added some old maps, my expired passport, and a little jar that held the party favors.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B1GPm9cG7fI/Uji-C8OZL7I/AAAAAAAAFbM/IF783ZrqKYo/s1600/IMG_1579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B1GPm9cG7fI/Uji-C8OZL7I/AAAAAAAAFbM/IF783ZrqKYo/s320/IMG_1579.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>My mom asked me to make a bookmark as the favor. I added a bible verse that my brother and sister-in-law like to the bottom. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2SPkFvWkhs/Uji_L6kXbpI/AAAAAAAAFbs/wIadYSq4k-A/s1600/IMG_1588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2SPkFvWkhs/Uji_L6kXbpI/AAAAAAAAFbs/wIadYSq4k-A/s320/IMG_1588.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The kitchen held the eats and drinks for the guests. My mom and sister did a great job with all of the food. It was a yummy luncheon. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qdWOy1xOyQM/Uji_dUlw67I/AAAAAAAAFb0/DvBp5eBQ8lc/s1600/IMG_1596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qdWOy1xOyQM/Uji_dUlw67I/AAAAAAAAFb0/DvBp5eBQ8lc/s320/IMG_1596.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My mom, sister, me, and Jane....I'm thankful for these ladies! <br />
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All in all, it was a really nice afternoon, and we all had a chance to tell Jane how excited we are to meet the new members of our family! Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-1293997067459312442013-09-08T07:26:00.002-04:002013-09-08T07:30:37.973-04:00{Giving} Back-to-School <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-In6Lw-TkbHs/UivuwyvkhXI/AAAAAAAAFY8/s8DVnufJq9M/s1600/IMG_1562.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-In6Lw-TkbHs/UivuwyvkhXI/AAAAAAAAFY8/s8DVnufJq9M/s400/IMG_1562.JPG" /></a><br />
The kiddies are pretty much all back to school at this point, and another school year is underway. I'm still somewhat in a state of shock that my little mister is now in preschool two mornings a week. We met his teachers last week at orientation, and his first official day is Monday, September 9th. I'm not trying to brown nose, but as a teacher myself and a parent, I wanted my son's teachers to know how much we appreciate them {and pray that they are caring, loving, patient individuals with hearts for children} by sending in a little teacher gift.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8uxqaQi6TGU/UivvCt0oETI/AAAAAAAAFZE/76WhTKPviKw/s1600/IMG_1560.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8uxqaQi6TGU/UivvCt0oETI/AAAAAAAAFZE/76WhTKPviKw/s400/IMG_1560.JPG" /></a><br />
I haven't been in the classroom since last November and am taking another year off to be home with my children, but I know I would have loved these little personalized note cards. In fact, I always kept a stack of notecards in my desk at school because there would be many times that I would want to send a little thank you to a student, a note home to a parent, or an encouraging note to a fellow teacher.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QS1mjcHkWso/UivvVKyH5II/AAAAAAAAFZM/ut6yzgGfuek/s1600/IMG_1566.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QS1mjcHkWso/UivvVKyH5II/AAAAAAAAFZM/ut6yzgGfuek/s400/IMG_1566.JPG" /></a><br />
I also made some matching apple tags that I plan on attaching to little treat bags. I used pretzels to display how I might use the tags, but I plan on sending in chocolate covered pretzels. I mean, come on...after the first week of school with three-year-olds, more than chocolate is needed! I probably should ditch the pretzels and just send in a bottle of wine ;-}<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FLDRVdVCWCo/Uixbm_E219I/AAAAAAAAFZk/BxWiDucIf3g/s1600/IMG_1457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FLDRVdVCWCo/Uixbm_E219I/AAAAAAAAFZk/BxWiDucIf3g/s400/IMG_1457.jpg" /></a></div>Speaking of back to school, I took some "school" shots of my little guy and my nephew a few weeks ago. The weather and the kids cooperated, and the pics turned out really cute. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UiIb0cfdlxE/Uixbz4ipRqI/AAAAAAAAFZs/Qd8xnLjZepQ/s1600/IMG_1420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UiIb0cfdlxE/Uixbz4ipRqI/AAAAAAAAFZs/Qd8xnLjZepQ/s400/IMG_1420.JPG" /></a></div>My nephew started kindergarten last week....say what?! <br />
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** I'm excited for the fall weather...are you?!<br />
** The old desk I used in the above pics? My hubby trash picked it for me a few years ago. I knew it would come in handy one day ;-}<br />
** My sister-in-law's shower is today! Pics and details next week. <br />
** My hubby just returned from a Cape Cod guys weekend/fishing trip. I'll be planning my girls get-away ASAP. Ha! Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-85064779453839846012013-08-27T22:36:00.001-04:002013-08-27T22:42:36.978-04:00{Invitations} Adoption Shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Uf0HJ2p5oo/Uh1cmUwpw4I/AAAAAAAAFXo/vhTUAMuImYg/s1600/IMG_1509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Uf0HJ2p5oo/Uh1cmUwpw4I/AAAAAAAAFXo/vhTUAMuImYg/s400/IMG_1509.JPG" /></a></div>My brother and his wife are adopting two brothers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in a month -- AHHH! This has been a long time in the making, and we are all so excited for them. My mom is throwing them a little shower in the next two weeks to celebrate and welcome the boys into our family, so I whipped up some invites for the occasion. <br />
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I used boyish colors, simple fonts, and... <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yUH7L3eNqrc/Uh1crn4MEeI/AAAAAAAAFXw/z57XADX67y4/s1600/IMG_1505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yUH7L3eNqrc/Uh1crn4MEeI/AAAAAAAAFXw/z57XADX67y4/s400/IMG_1505.JPG" /></a></div>...crafted a blue/green "world" with Africa in the center. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOT-KnO_eps/Uh1eRCXf8yI/AAAAAAAAFYE/pJv-MBtzkQ8/s1600/IMG_1508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOT-KnO_eps/Uh1eRCXf8yI/AAAAAAAAFYE/pJv-MBtzkQ8/s400/IMG_1508.jpg" /></a></div>Rob and Jane would like to bring some items with them to the orphanage where their boys have been, so I included an additional enclosure asking our guests to consider making a donation for these children and workers that have so very little.<br />
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**I'm working on some details for a dessert table now. I'm hoping it turns out the way I am envisioning in my head. STAY TUNED! <br />
**My little mister is going to pre-school this year, and I'm putting together a little gift for his teacher, whom I've already met and really like! Not a gift per say, just a little something. POSTING SOON!<br />
**I've also got my baby girl's first birthday on my mind. It'll be here before I know it {November}, and I've got to get MOVIN' on some of the details!<br />
**My hubby and I planned a mini-getaway for this fall, and I'm so excited! We are headed to the city of Charleston, South Carolina. I NEED this!<br />
**Soaking up the last of summer, but also looking forward to the fall at home with my sweet babes :-} <br />
Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-27477928750190831662013-08-08T22:44:00.002-04:002013-08-08T22:47:55.268-04:00{Invitations} Maura Kate #3<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M0jnHd88iUE/UgRQxWFS49I/AAAAAAAAFXQ/mR-POByiSzc/s1600/maura.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M0jnHd88iUE/UgRQxWFS49I/AAAAAAAAFXQ/mR-POByiSzc/s400/maura.jpg" /></a><br />
My neice, Maura, has a birthday that is approaching. She will be three, and we will be celebrating with a pool party at our local swim club. My sister pretty much gives me complete freedom to design her children's birthday invitations however I want. I thought some fun, summery colors would be fun and went to work. The above proofs are what I ended up with. My sis picked the one with her girl's sweet face. I also made coordinating wrap labels and thank you cards. Wishing my pretty neice a happy #3! Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-70328062038883819002013-07-14T21:53:00.003-04:002013-07-14T21:54:29.804-04:00{Decorating} Hair Clip Frame<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oWwlHq1P6s0/UeIA-4UNqgI/AAAAAAAAFWY/WQFaWFdN6lQ/s1600/IMG_0776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oWwlHq1P6s0/UeIA-4UNqgI/AAAAAAAAFWY/WQFaWFdN6lQ/s400/IMG_0776.JPG" /></a></div>I've tried my best to jazz up my daughter's nursery a little with some pretty touches here and there since I decided to keep the blue walls, rug, and bedding that she inherited from her big brother. In another two years, we'll do it up girly style with a big girl bedroom. Until then...let me introduce to you yet another Pinterest knockoff ;-} In other words, an old frame with wire to hold some of my baby girl's clips. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0ZEmnii8gg/UeNJsy1xd2I/AAAAAAAAFWo/tCuIfQto8Ok/s1600/IMG_0775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0ZEmnii8gg/UeNJsy1xd2I/AAAAAAAAFWo/tCuIfQto8Ok/s400/IMG_0775.jpg" /></a></div>It was simple really. The frame originally came from my in-laws home. I spray painted it lime green for my son's first birthday party. Then last summer I added wire to the frame to hang pictures of my parents and family for their 60th birthday dinner. So, all I had to do was find a spot to hang this baby and add some clips. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1nB_rlzqCw/UeNKEAcv9tI/AAAAAAAAFWw/fKRv-pUbOi8/s1600/IMG_0774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1nB_rlzqCw/UeNKEAcv9tI/AAAAAAAAFWw/fKRv-pUbOi8/s400/IMG_0774.jpg" /></a></div>Enter in a lonely little wall on the other side of my girl's closet. You don't even see it unless you walk all the way into the nursery, stand at the far wall, and turn around and face to door. It's slightly hidden, which I kinda like.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vTszr-paNEw/UeNQV7CqAhI/AAAAAAAAFXA/Q83XoytT878/s1600/IMG_0782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vTszr-paNEw/UeNQV7CqAhI/AAAAAAAAFXA/Q83XoytT878/s400/IMG_0782.JPG" /></a></div>So, these clips? Not much use for them at this point. As you can see, my girlie is pretty much a baldie! I love that little, round, peach fuzzed head. And I'll be ready with some cute clips when her hair finally does decide to come in ;-} No worries...I was bald until I was two {my mom used to tape bows on my bald head...ha!} and if you know me now, then you know I've got a head of hair on me. Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-23517787404659045472013-06-07T16:02:00.001-04:002013-06-07T16:09:42.004-04:00{Parties} Dedication Celebration<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YMCBIcg_rrM/Ua3FGPpYZwI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/SyrmRC0Gvyw/s1600/IMG_0378.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YMCBIcg_rrM/Ua3FGPpYZwI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/SyrmRC0Gvyw/s320/IMG_0378.JPG" /></a><br />
My baby girl's dedication was a few weeks ago, and we had a small, private ceremony at a local country club followed by brunch. All of our immediate family were present for this special day. A family friend performed the dedication ceremony...he also baptized me when I was ten, married my husband and me almost five years ago now, and dedicated our son three years ago. We were honored that he was able to dedicate Drew, and he will forever hold a very special place in our family.<br />
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Our family had a private room in which I set up a SUPER simple little display. A baby dedication is a celebration, but it's not really a party. It almost felt inappropriate to go over-the-top with decorations and party fluff because the day is really about so much more than that. I have Drew's first birthday for all of that fun stuff...ha! <br />
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I did order a cake, which was actually somewhat of a waste because Scotland Run's brunch is overflowing with decadent desserts. Oh well. I added a pink and green cake topper made from ribbon scraps that I made a few years prior but never used. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfZug7lL8pI/Ua3FYwHXnOI/AAAAAAAAFVY/EHLg1PE899M/s1600/IMG_0379.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfZug7lL8pI/Ua3FYwHXnOI/AAAAAAAAFVY/EHLg1PE899M/s320/IMG_0379.jpg" /></a><br />
Behind the cake, I brought along my chalkboard and added the verbage, "God Bless Drew." <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K-JpZSMRXVw/Ua3Gdv4g0cI/AAAAAAAAFVw/ghtBmxsWb74/s1600/IMG_0381.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K-JpZSMRXVw/Ua3Gdv4g0cI/AAAAAAAAFVw/ghtBmxsWb74/s320/IMG_0381.jpg" /></a><br />
My friend Jamie made me sugar cookies and decorated them as pink and white daisies. I used these as a simple favor and way of saying thank you for coming. I bagged the cookies in clear plastic treat bags and added tags that I whipped up a few days prior. They sat in a white pot that I bought for Dean's dedication centerpieces. I took the brown and white polka dot ribbon off and added pink and white for my girlie. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8Vg-bPzF2I/Ua3F0QbZtLI/AAAAAAAAFVg/lIfaMrq21hA/s1600/IMG_0337.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8Vg-bPzF2I/Ua3F0QbZtLI/AAAAAAAAFVg/lIfaMrq21hA/s320/IMG_0337.jpg" /></a><br />
At each guest's place setting was a little program listing the order of events for the dedication ceremony. I quickly created these and layered them onto dark pink shimmery paper. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RN1Di1djINE/Ua3GNOP5RfI/AAAAAAAAFVo/qeA7FwCBAmE/s1600/IMG_0376.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RN1Di1djINE/Ua3GNOP5RfI/AAAAAAAAFVo/qeA7FwCBAmE/s320/IMG_0376.jpg" /></a><br />
Two days before the dedication, I went to Shoprite's floral department and picked out about ten bunches of varying floral blooms. Once home (and when the kiddies were napping), I spread them out on my kitchen island and mixed and matched the blooms together. I used my own glass holding vessels...most of them were just mason jars from spaghetti sauce that I rinsed out and saved. Lastly, I added some pink and white polka dot ribbon around the jars. So for approximately $25-30, I made four pretty centerpieces. Not bad. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lffMFmx-sOk/Ua3Gt_CTTQI/AAAAAAAAFV4/OJfZLZRLAuc/s1600/IMG_0351.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lffMFmx-sOk/Ua3Gt_CTTQI/AAAAAAAAFV4/OJfZLZRLAuc/s320/IMG_0351.JPG" /></a><br />
My family of four...love them! I tried to stay in keeping with a dark pink and white color palette. I ordered my son a tie from Etsy and my hubby had a few pink ties in his closet already. I found a dark pink shirt that I paired with white slacks, and my sweet girl wore a very simple dress that I unexpectedly found at Carter's {I wasn't even looking for a dress}. I had my son's dedication outfit made from the train of my wedding gown and my daughter got an $18 dress from Carter's. Don't judge...life has been a little busy! I had Lisa of <i>My Sunshine</i> make Drew a sweet headband {Lisa made my bridal jewelry and is a very crafty and talented lady!}.<br />
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All in all, a great day! <br />
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**TGIF! Boo rain!Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-50434363060794372302013-05-15T22:09:00.000-04:002013-05-15T22:10:09.462-04:00{Invitations} Baby Dedication<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YIO_53Ywx2A/UZQ-wCOHqhI/AAAAAAAAFTw/XMuCOUieRLk/s1600/IMG_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YIO_53Ywx2A/UZQ-wCOHqhI/AAAAAAAAFTw/XMuCOUieRLk/s320/IMG_0094.JPG" /></a><br />
My six month old baby girl is being dedicated this weekend, and here are her simple invitations. I'm sticking to a dark pink and white color palette. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RihkwY5d0aE/UZQ-2UID1QI/AAAAAAAAFT4/Yx87SpJp3RI/s1600/IMG_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RihkwY5d0aE/UZQ-2UID1QI/AAAAAAAAFT4/Yx87SpJp3RI/s320/IMG_0095.JPG" /></a><br />
I also created coordinating wrap labels for the invitations. <br />
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**Next week I will post the details -- stay tuned!<br />
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Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-57560635067567453952013-05-12T21:47:00.000-04:002013-05-15T22:09:49.736-04:00{Giving} Teacher Appreciation<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a1SeXfij8T0/UZBD3NVlzgI/AAAAAAAAFTY/eUCdlYnwAYs/s1600/IMG_0262.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a1SeXfij8T0/UZBD3NVlzgI/AAAAAAAAFTY/eUCdlYnwAYs/s320/IMG_0262.jpg" /></a><br />
Last week was teacher appreciation week, so I put together a quick little gift for my son's two teachers. It's totally a Pinterest knockoff ;-} Who doesn't love a pump soap from Bath and Body Works? I'm practically obsessed...ha!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpFDjvSajIk/UZBD_6HVz0I/AAAAAAAAFTg/mZq8c7vcjTs/s1600/IMG_0263.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpFDjvSajIk/UZBD_6HVz0I/AAAAAAAAFTg/mZq8c7vcjTs/s320/IMG_0263.JPG" /></a><br />
I designed a little tag, had them printed, quickly cut them, punched a little hole, added some pretty ribbon, and tied them around the soap bottles. Nothing over the top or fancy, but as a teacher myself, I would have loved to have received a little gift of appreciation! <br />
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**I hope all you mommies out there had a wonderful Mother's Day! Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-33530989771807865532013-05-05T22:02:00.001-04:002013-05-05T22:02:15.301-04:00{Home} Paint Job<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZZvu3DJVXI/UYXC13XXnAI/AAAAAAAAFSc/QUtHSIGkAS0/s1600/IMG_0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZZvu3DJVXI/UYXC13XXnAI/AAAAAAAAFSc/QUtHSIGkAS0/s320/IMG_0092.JPG" /></a><br />
Hello! We recently took a big leap of faith and painted our little old farmhouse. It had been a pale yellow, and it was cute. I really and truly liked it, BUT...there's just something about a grey farmhouse. So, grey it was. Now, my flowers pop, the white trim around my windows pop. Things just pop. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LI5SzGXback/UYXCfjCccbI/AAAAAAAAFSU/ZxpO_j5k7GM/s1600/IMG_5646.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LI5SzGXback/UYXCfjCccbI/AAAAAAAAFSU/ZxpO_j5k7GM/s320/IMG_5646.JPG" /></a><br />
This is not a great picture, but it gives you an idea of the yellow we painted over. I'm happy with my decision ;-}<br />
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**So...it's been a while. My poor blog...it has been neglected BIG TIME. Maybe one day I'll actually have a few minutes to myself to update it more often ;-} Until then...it's here and there :-/<br />
**We made settlement on our house 4 years ago this week. It was the same day as my husband's birthday. Time flies!<br />
**I'm taking off another school year to be at home with my babies. Relieved!<br />
**Have a good week! Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-80366837289687216612013-04-19T22:00:00.002-04:002013-04-19T22:00:43.918-04:00{Home} Kitchen Island<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7CWAEuGfm8Y/UXBKlFDDQFI/AAAAAAAAFRw/XMzoq0Q86vI/s1600/IMG_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7CWAEuGfm8Y/UXBKlFDDQFI/AAAAAAAAFRw/XMzoq0Q86vI/s320/IMG_0018.JPG" /></a><br />
About a month ago, I took the plunge and finally painted our kitchen island. It was something I had been wanting to do for a few years, but also something I continued to stall on. When my little man and husband took a guys trip to Florida for spring training last month, I knew it was now or never because two kids equals never getting anything done. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8EokWT_2W4E/UXBKy-3hbGI/AAAAAAAAFR4/Nhd4C9QbW1I/s1600/IMG_0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8EokWT_2W4E/UXBKy-3hbGI/AAAAAAAAFR4/Nhd4C9QbW1I/s320/IMG_0019.JPG" /></a><br />
I chose a creamy white color with grey undertones {it was actually a color my sister shared with me and used in her new home}. The island took three coats, and I thought I was going to die. I strongly dislike painting. I love the look of a kitchen island that is not matchy matchy with the cabinets. Truth be told, I'd like to paint all my cabinets the color of the island, but I might be 60 before I would have time to tackle that ;-}<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DCS3-6WY3jA/UXBK7cCdpVI/AAAAAAAAFSA/y1TSEFksn3c/s1600/IMG_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DCS3-6WY3jA/UXBK7cCdpVI/AAAAAAAAFSA/y1TSEFksn3c/s320/IMG_0020.JPG" /></a><br />
Last year, we replaced all the hardware in the kitchen. I mixed a simple knob and a more modern pull. My little kitchen is far from the kitchen of my dreams, but it's cozy and cute, and fits our little family for now :-}<br />
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**TGIF!Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-42839084368999928902013-04-12T21:21:00.000-04:002013-04-12T21:21:36.202-04:00{Holiday} Easter Dinner<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MssJbdW7YBI/UWdlRxtP-VI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/xuEUcfNRpQQ/s1600/easter3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MssJbdW7YBI/UWdlRxtP-VI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/xuEUcfNRpQQ/s320/easter3.jpg" /></a><br />
Hello! Easter was ummm...almost three weeks ago now, and I'm just getting around to a quick post on some of the details of that day. Just can't keep up these days! I kept my tablescape simple, using some springy colors, sparkly eggs, tulips, and candlelight. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEf1sW09Cx4/UWdlYet_g0I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/BeX9hZv2EYc/s1600/easter1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEf1sW09Cx4/UWdlYet_g0I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/BeX9hZv2EYc/s320/easter1.jpg" /></a><br />
I created dinner menus and cut them in the shape of a bunny {thank you, Pinterest!}. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpN5J2MvoAo/UWdlleNzpgI/AAAAAAAAFRE/ouW6ra0Roj8/s1600/easter6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpN5J2MvoAo/UWdlleNzpgI/AAAAAAAAFRE/ouW6ra0Roj8/s320/easter6.jpg" /></a><br />
Just a close-up of some of the details on the table.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XIAFFjFAek0/UWdm6Xq3UgI/AAAAAAAAFRQ/kE7Z93cyBes/s1600/easter2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XIAFFjFAek0/UWdm6Xq3UgI/AAAAAAAAFRQ/kE7Z93cyBes/s320/easter2.jpg" /></a><br />
Another Pinterest knock-off ;-} I took an empty toilet paper roll, cut it, covered it with shimmery white paper, and plopped a monogrammed hard boiled egg inside to mark each person's place setting.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3cjmD6YsyzI/UWdnhz9y3FI/AAAAAAAAFRY/QESRLOYyeLU/s1600/easter4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3cjmD6YsyzI/UWdnhz9y3FI/AAAAAAAAFRY/QESRLOYyeLU/s320/easter4.jpg" /></a><br />
I kept my buffet table decorated with the springy greens I added a few weeks prior and changed my chalkboard to say, "He is Risen" to honor and celebrate our Savior on Easter day. The buffet housed my desserts for the night, which included the chocolate covered bird nests {below} and a berry pie {not pictured}. We ended up only having my parents as guests, so I didn't need to overdue it with tons of sweets.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V65gJ1LYoQo/UWdnsH0rRZI/AAAAAAAAFRg/-veDquIsA9o/s1600/easter5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V65gJ1LYoQo/UWdnsH0rRZI/AAAAAAAAFRg/-veDquIsA9o/s320/easter5.jpg" /></a><br />
Yum!<br />
Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-57294105500810078292013-03-16T10:18:00.004-04:002013-03-16T10:18:58.757-04:00{Spring} Green on the Brain...<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9TmLsCsyjqw/UUHZJsux6nI/AAAAAAAAFPc/9eENYg9C1U8/s1600/IMG_9931.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9TmLsCsyjqw/UUHZJsux6nI/AAAAAAAAFPc/9eENYg9C1U8/s320/IMG_9931.JPG" /></a><br />
With spring on the horizon {YAY!}, I've got warmer weather, tulips and daffodils, and springy greens on my mind. I'm more than happy to leave ole' man winter behind :-/ <br />
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I decorated my dining room buffet with faux potted greens for the spring season, and I'm loving the infusion of color in my home. And it also happens to be perfect for the St. Patty's dinner I'm hosting this evening too. Nothing fancy, just both sets of our parents coming over for a ham and cabbage supper and a little time with the grandbabes. Speaking of, I better get movin'! <br />
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**I'm hosting Easter this year too...details soon! <br />
**Happy early St. Patty's Day to ya!Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-13645791403474680042013-03-01T22:23:00.001-05:002013-03-03T21:30:23.814-05:00{Parties} Diggers Galore<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rak3VrlxHM/UTAXKsJiJOI/AAAAAAAAFNY/94dj-cO7Ruw/s1600/IMG_9779.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rak3VrlxHM/UTAXKsJiJOI/AAAAAAAAFNY/94dj-cO7Ruw/s320/IMG_9779.JPG" /></a><br />
We closed out last week with a digger party for our brand new THREE year old. It was a sunny winter day, and we so very much enjoyed celebrating our little man. <br />
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Diggers are something Dean just adores, so it only seemed appropriate to theme up his party a bit. I didn't go crazy...but I sure do love little details ;-} <br />
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The buffet in my dining room held Dean's dessert station. Check out the details below:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X7mf7Mi3RgM/UTESaezelJI/AAAAAAAAFO8/JQHCO39i_Nc/s1600/IMG_9796.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X7mf7Mi3RgM/UTESaezelJI/AAAAAAAAFO8/JQHCO39i_Nc/s320/IMG_9796.jpg" /></a> <br />
The chalkboard I found in TJ Maxx this fall was the focal point of the dessert table. I created a "Dig In" dessert menu listing all of the yummy sweets served. With a brown and yellow color palette, a chocolate themed dessert bar seemed perfect. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lds0hcV7aJg/UTEQbznzhdI/AAAAAAAAFOs/GS0G7edvblU/s1600/IMG_9780.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lds0hcV7aJg/UTEQbznzhdI/AAAAAAAAFOs/GS0G7edvblU/s320/IMG_9780.jpg" /></a><br />
I used yellow chevron bags to hold party favors for the kids and adults.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SjTh_thLY20/UTAXobSZxuI/AAAAAAAAFNw/WImAjjpdDBo/s1600/IMG_9785.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SjTh_thLY20/UTAXobSZxuI/AAAAAAAAFNw/WImAjjpdDBo/s320/IMG_9785.jpg" /></a><br />
I ordered a chocolate peanut butter ice cream cake from Cold Stone Creamery for Dean's birthday cake. It was YUMMMMMM. I crafted some homemade cake toppers {a #3 and a digger}, added some yellowy orange candles, and called it a day ;-}<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KKMTHye8oRU/UTAXTtWS_6I/AAAAAAAAFNg/IwXeBY7Yp90/s1600/IMG_9782.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KKMTHye8oRU/UTAXTtWS_6I/AAAAAAAAFNg/IwXeBY7Yp90/s320/IMG_9782.JPG" /></a><br />
I've tried my hand at using melted chocolate over and over and just don't seem to have much luck, but I was able to squeeze out some chocolate covered pretzels covered in chocolate jimmies and...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SOhYit2Qf78/UTAY884ipaI/AAAAAAAAFN8/8gxKN57-8ig/s1600/IMG_9789.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SOhYit2Qf78/UTAY884ipaI/AAAAAAAAFN8/8gxKN57-8ig/s320/IMG_9789.JPG" /></a><br />
...chocolate covered pineapple and strawberries. If you've never had pineapple covered in chocolate let me suggest you get on that ASAP. To.die.for. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InGUYe_sZsM/UTAZEJKB-VI/AAAAAAAAFOE/kbWPEGPOO_0/s1600/IMG_9792.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InGUYe_sZsM/UTAZEJKB-VI/AAAAAAAAFOE/kbWPEGPOO_0/s320/IMG_9792.JPG" /></a><br />
Tootsie rolls also made an appearance because of their chocolate flavor and brown wrapping. Plus, my mom and sister love them :-}<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gF_XwOZIshk/UTEPEpSBONI/AAAAAAAAFOk/52Nqwqwiv2I/s1600/IMG_9798.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gF_XwOZIshk/UTEPEpSBONI/AAAAAAAAFOk/52Nqwqwiv2I/s320/IMG_9798.JPG" /></a><br />
In addition to my dining room buffet, I also decorated my mantle with some digger themed decor. First, I made a "Happy Birthday" banner. Then I filled a glass bubble vase with dirt from my backyard. Yes, dirt. Ha! I stuck a handmade digger pick in the dirt. I also borrowed a few of Dean's play diggers for the mantle. <br />
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My current favorite picture of my boy also made an appearance. One beautiful day last week, I took my little guy to the local elementary school, which is under construction, and situated him in front of one of the huge diggers. That was it...he was happy as a clam and smiled his head off while I snapped away. Ohhh, I just love him! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YU9jm9O6UPI/UTES4vypjyI/AAAAAAAAFPE/kazLxpfYYPo/s1600/IMG_9800.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YU9jm9O6UPI/UTES4vypjyI/AAAAAAAAFPE/kazLxpfYYPo/s320/IMG_9800.JPG" /></a><br />
I also conducted a little interview with Dean in an attempt to document some of his current thinkings and likes. His answers were completely sweet and "my chat with Dean" is something I will save forever.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7GSiJsrMShc/UTETa9HBTqI/AAAAAAAAFPM/KgDKv0eU2jo/s1600/IMG_9815.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7GSiJsrMShc/UTETa9HBTqI/AAAAAAAAFPM/KgDKv0eU2jo/s320/IMG_9815.JPG" /></a><br />
Last but not least, I set up dinner on my kitchen island {which is newly painted and I'll feature soon right here on my blog!} and added a caddy full of brown and yellow essentials including: stripey straws, cute napkins, and cups decorated with washi tape. <br />
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That's it -- a simple digger party for an anything but simple little boy ;-}<br />
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**Hallelujah it's MARCH! Come on already Spring!<br />
**Post on the new kitchen island is coming soon. And also? We're painting our house. Yup! Stay tuned!<br />
Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-47348984784758343572013-02-25T22:40:00.000-05:002013-02-26T21:30:38.783-05:00{Birthday} Oreo Pops<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aiXLQIkbNPo/USwsFP2_JLI/AAAAAAAAFMU/Tawm57NsAz4/s1600/IMG_9766.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aiXLQIkbNPo/USwsFP2_JLI/AAAAAAAAFMU/Tawm57NsAz4/s320/IMG_9766.JPG" /></a><br />
We celebrated my little mister's third birthday last Friday. I can hardly believe he is three. He had pre-school that morning, so I sent in some oreo cookie pops dipped in chocolate for his school mates. I wrapped each with a clear bag, twine, and a little tag I made. Easy! <br />
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ps~ I personally think working with melted chocolate is an absolute NIGHTMARE {hate it..ha!} BUT the taste is that good that I continue to torture myself by attempting to tackle it.<br />
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**We took Dean rollerskating on Saturday as per his request -- hysterical! He loved every second of it!<br />
**On Sunday, I hosted his family party at our home. I'll be sharing the details this week!Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-12488936399419894582013-02-13T22:25:00.001-05:002013-02-14T15:43:38.255-05:00{Holiday} NUTS for You Valentine<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnVO2v3JIxs/URxV3ZiuAWI/AAAAAAAAFK4/eUpoNoT_Dro/s1600/IMG_9685.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnVO2v3JIxs/URxV3ZiuAWI/AAAAAAAAFK4/eUpoNoT_Dro/s320/IMG_9685.jpg" /></a><br />
Dean and Drew delivered the last of their Valentines this afternoon to both sets of their grandparents. Dean helped me make chocolate covered peanuts and sprinkle them with Valentine sprinkles yesterday. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FhICYe40upQ/URxWK1IkiTI/AAAAAAAAFLQ/8a_JmNgIC_A/s1600/IMG_9690.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FhICYe40upQ/URxWK1IkiTI/AAAAAAAAFLQ/8a_JmNgIC_A/s320/IMG_9690.jpg" /></a><br />
We bagged them and attached a "We're NUTS about you" tag. In addition, we threw in pink chocolate heart candies. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SDQG4oco8Zo/URxWeVKLdKI/AAAAAAAAFLY/6gsfFAm41Ns/s1600/IMG_9691.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SDQG4oco8Zo/URxWeVKLdKI/AAAAAAAAFLY/6gsfFAm41Ns/s320/IMG_9691.JPG" /></a><br />
Lastly, we used dark and light pink baker's twine to tie everything together. These chocolate covered peanuts are one of my favorite treats! {And sooooo easy to make -- recipe <a href="http://limedesign-kate.blogspot.com/2011/12/gifts-neighborhood-cheer.html">here</a>}. <br />
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** Dean also made a few extra bags for his pre-school teachers on Friday.<br />
** My family has a simple little Valentine's Day tradition -- chocolate fondue dessert after dinner. Bo and I started doing this before we had our babies, and now they enjoy the fondue with us!<br />
** Happy Valentine's Day!Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-42982186380354228992013-02-10T22:28:00.001-05:002013-02-10T22:28:45.214-05:00{Holiday} Crayon Valentine <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8k4urNvAM0w/URhiIA3owqI/AAAAAAAAFJg/Xy4uNarZR98/s1600/IMG_9591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8k4urNvAM0w/URhiIA3owqI/AAAAAAAAFJg/Xy4uNarZR98/s400/IMG_9591.JPG" /></a></div>I just wrapped up Dean and Drew's Valentines. I borrowed an idea I found on Pinterest, which was a crayon Valentine. Dean's little friends are at a perfect age for coloring, so when I stumbled upon these crayon rings in the Target dollar bins, I scooped them up.<br />
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My boy just started going to Pre-school one day a week {WHAT?!?}, so I also made some for his little class of twelve. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KsNo-zz1CXg/URhiIiwgh5I/AAAAAAAAFJs/fVGamP_RfFc/s1600/IMG_9593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KsNo-zz1CXg/URhiIiwgh5I/AAAAAAAAFJs/fVGamP_RfFc/s400/IMG_9593.JPG" /></a></div>I created little tags and packaged them in clear plastic bags. Easy! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HVsPs7P0Mag/URhiJSZ_uYI/AAAAAAAAFJ4/n9XVKBhR_XE/s1600/IMG_9601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HVsPs7P0Mag/URhiJSZ_uYI/AAAAAAAAFJ4/n9XVKBhR_XE/s400/IMG_9601.JPG" /></a></div>I'm working on another Valentine for Dean and Drew's grandparents {and Dean's teachers}...stay tuned!<br />
Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-16358158012395385362013-02-01T21:58:00.001-05:002013-02-01T21:58:42.301-05:00{DIY} Valentine Trees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gMdURj-uqkE/UQx-ktgwWBI/AAAAAAAAFIU/mJjH0eTIVFk/s1600/IMG_9571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gMdURj-uqkE/UQx-ktgwWBI/AAAAAAAAFIU/mJjH0eTIVFk/s400/IMG_9571.jpg" /></a></div>I've never been so happy to see February in all my life! I appreciate all the beautiful seasons we are fortunate enough to experience here in New Jersey, but after two weeks worth of runny noses, sore throats, coughs, and cranky kids, I'm done! Not that February is much better in terms of the cold weather or sicknesses, but we are that much closer to spring. <br />
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This February, I decided to try a Valentine's idea I found on Pinterest...where else? <br />
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My little mister helped me craft these heart trees a few days ago when we were stuck inside due to the cold. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dm6QHq_0Auw/UQx-lChdlJI/AAAAAAAAFIg/naUzRsrYo5g/s1600/IMG_9573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dm6QHq_0Auw/UQx-lChdlJI/AAAAAAAAFIg/naUzRsrYo5g/s400/IMG_9573.JPG" /></a></div>I decorated my mantle with the trees this year. They are super simple, but I really love the vibrant colors.<br />
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**Stay tuned to see the Valentine's I'm working on for my kiddies to give to their friends this year! <br />
Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-26562227623572042002013-01-19T22:13:00.001-05:002013-01-19T22:47:03.382-05:00{Invitations} We're "Diggin' " #3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Shf2s_2tF_8/UPsDGzSMgbI/AAAAAAAAFF8/JDGTSnN0z5U/s1600/IMG_9538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Shf2s_2tF_8/UPsDGzSMgbI/AAAAAAAAFF8/JDGTSnN0z5U/s400/IMG_9538.jpg" /></a></div>Dean's THIRD birthday invitations are just about ready to be mailed out this upcoming week. My boy loves diggers, tractors, trucks, etc. and he chose diggers for his "loose" birthday theme this year. I'm NOT going crazy with this birthday theme. Subtle touches...that's it...ha!<br />
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I crafted a digger for the front of Dean's invitation using different scrapbooking papers. I found a clipart picture of a digger online and created a pattern by free-handing it. Then I traced the pattern onto the scrapbook paper, cut it out, and adhered the digger to the front of the invitation with double-sided tape. Simple. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BEcDNDi7vGc/UPsDHpxf2wI/AAAAAAAAFGI/z3ZGWei2qPk/s1600/IMG_9540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BEcDNDi7vGc/UPsDHpxf2wI/AAAAAAAAFGI/z3ZGWei2qPk/s400/IMG_9540.JPG" /></a></div>I kept the inside simple with the party details on the left and a big picture of my little man on the right. A few weeks ago the weather was nice, so I drew a big 3 with sidewalk chalk on our outside patio and had Dean lie next to it. He cooperated, and I just love his cute smile in this picture!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2S4Sh8kZJqM/UPsDIDzkZmI/AAAAAAAAFGU/U1wDr3gt_Fw/s1600/IMG_9543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2S4Sh8kZJqM/UPsDIDzkZmI/AAAAAAAAFGU/U1wDr3gt_Fw/s400/IMG_9543.JPG" /></a></div>I can't wait to celebrate this boy! Stay tuned for the details :-}<br />
Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-32199232804951563052013-01-15T15:47:00.002-05:002013-01-19T15:31:34.802-05:00{Decorating} A Few Additions...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uh3bv9_GBeE/UPTNbnUMNrI/AAAAAAAAFDM/yRvx6SGwXfU/s1600/IMG_9432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uh3bv9_GBeE/UPTNbnUMNrI/AAAAAAAAFDM/yRvx6SGwXfU/s400/IMG_9432.jpg" /></a></div>I recently added a few more touches to my little man's big boy room. First, a growth chart ruler made by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jeff-Kunkle-Home-Remodeling-and-Repair/303482776362093">Jeff Kunkle Home Remodeling and Repair</a>. I was inspired by a picture I saw on Pinterest, and my ruler looks just like the inspiration picture. I just adore it!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-78LvOR0ABlU/UPTNcUnLlhI/AAAAAAAAFDY/mNes_iIECIw/s1600/IMG_9434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-78LvOR0ABlU/UPTNcUnLlhI/AAAAAAAAFDY/mNes_iIECIw/s400/IMG_9434.JPG" /></a></div>I'm going to start marking my kids' heights on each of their birthdays starting on my son's third birthday next month.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--HqYGiQ2dmI/UPTNdG3pURI/AAAAAAAAFDk/5hdxY1ZAmSI/s1600/IMG_9498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="276" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--HqYGiQ2dmI/UPTNdG3pURI/AAAAAAAAFDk/5hdxY1ZAmSI/s400/IMG_9498.jpg" /></a></div>Next up...my hubby hung the old chalkboard that I used last year as a prop for Dean's second birthday pictures. It's cute, {and special because it was my grandmother's chalkboard} and Dean loves "chalking" ;-}<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n1xbAXlbKcU/UPsBz5s5mVI/AAAAAAAAFE8/GLCmoXRov9c/s1600/IMG_9532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n1xbAXlbKcU/UPsBz5s5mVI/AAAAAAAAFE8/GLCmoXRov9c/s400/IMG_9532.JPG" /></a></div>Lastly, I added this open frame to his shelf above his bed. I hung fishing line from some old nails already in the frame and then used mini clothespins to hang our Christmas card and Dean's Wilmington & Western RR ticket from this past Christmas season along with his 3rd birthday party invitation. Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-24668906190950623362013-01-10T07:24:00.000-05:002013-01-10T07:26:55.054-05:00{Birth Announcement} Drew Rebecca<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qAOn3rIxLf4/UO6n26qs5AI/AAAAAAAAE_A/TjBPK14pYjQ/s1600/IMG_9448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qAOn3rIxLf4/UO6n26qs5AI/AAAAAAAAE_A/TjBPK14pYjQ/s400/IMG_9448.JPG" /></a></div>Today I'm sharing my baby girl's birth announcement. So...meet Drew, my little sweetie. Have I mentioned how much fun I'm having with a baby girl in tow? Well, I am. Case in point...the sheer, shimmery glitter I added to highlight her name. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mxG5DahfoPw/UO6n4JQN9qI/AAAAAAAAE_c/-7GqBo5QS2c/s1600/IMG_9454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mxG5DahfoPw/UO6n4JQN9qI/AAAAAAAAE_c/-7GqBo5QS2c/s400/IMG_9454.JPG" /></a></div>As a matter of fact, this is what my kitchen counter looked like as I allowed each announcement to dry and the glitter to set. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YHxTcVHJ-Xg/UO6n3Wzqj1I/AAAAAAAAE_M/ghCb5HVwqdo/s1600/IMG_9450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YHxTcVHJ-Xg/UO6n3Wzqj1I/AAAAAAAAE_M/ghCb5HVwqdo/s400/IMG_9450.JPG" /></a></div><a href="http://karencarpenterphotographt.com">Karen Carpenter Photography</a> took some beautiful newborn shots of my girl, and I chose one for her announcement. Below I included some other shots that Karen took of Drew. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5NtrlKCnUg/UO6oivzEdEI/AAAAAAAAE_w/QmZMHtFihsI/s1600/IMG_9451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5NtrlKCnUg/UO6oivzEdEI/AAAAAAAAE_w/QmZMHtFihsI/s400/IMG_9451.jpg" /></a></div>Simple wrap labels helped complete the look I was going for...girly simple.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TrRDjuOC4zE/UO6vfK3xQ7I/AAAAAAAAFAs/G9VT_330tb4/s1600/drew.rebecca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TrRDjuOC4zE/UO6vfK3xQ7I/AAAAAAAAFAs/G9VT_330tb4/s400/drew.rebecca.jpg" /></a></div>Karen does gorgeous work and has such a way with these teeny tiny babes. She is very patient and takes her time to capture the most perfect pictures for her clients. Thank you, baby whisperer! L.O.V.E!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3bJO7U76ng/UO6xAaxNXfI/AAAAAAAAFBs/9QuaweI11Vo/s1600/drew.rebecca.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F3bJO7U76ng/UO6xAaxNXfI/AAAAAAAAFBs/9QuaweI11Vo/s400/drew.rebecca.1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jb1SWcp4OIU/UO6xBRyzyHI/AAAAAAAAFB0/Nol1dc4I8Uo/s1600/drew.rebecca.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="160" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jb1SWcp4OIU/UO6xBRyzyHI/AAAAAAAAFB0/Nol1dc4I8Uo/s400/drew.rebecca.4.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gVpfCHh323A/UO6xCJMUjmI/AAAAAAAAFCA/WQsnGOw7qqY/s1600/drew.rebecca.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gVpfCHh323A/UO6xCJMUjmI/AAAAAAAAFCA/WQsnGOw7qqY/s400/drew.rebecca.3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0A_jObLBSo/UO6xC6TU5XI/AAAAAAAAFCM/l026cYFI1gE/s1600/drew.rebecca.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0A_jObLBSo/UO6xC6TU5XI/AAAAAAAAFCM/l026cYFI1gE/s400/drew.rebecca.2.jpg" /></a></div>Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988443694249529923.post-74632661514422468172012-12-31T15:09:00.000-05:002012-12-31T15:09:00.138-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HK5Ed4jDaAw/UN9jXBk5ToI/AAAAAAAAE88/Lwl77GBMuNY/s1600/IMG_9227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HK5Ed4jDaAw/UN9jXBk5ToI/AAAAAAAAE88/Lwl77GBMuNY/s400/IMG_9227.JPG" /></a></div>Oh happy day! It's New Year's Eve, and we are about to embark on another year. Before we do and the holiday season is officially over, I thought I'd share the brunch I hosted at my home on Christmas morning.<br />
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I'll be honest, I struggled a little to pull this all together. I had cleaning to do, a little shopping to finish up, presents to wrap, food to make, oh and a brand new baby and a 2 1/2 year old to tend to. As a matter of fact, my own mama was at my house on Christmas Eve morning helping me make the two breakfast casseroles I served on Christmas...thank goodness for that amazing woman! Thankfully, everything came together in the end, and Christmas morning actually ended up being pretty relaxing. <br />
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By the way, notice our elf, Jack, anywhere in this pic? Ha! He snuck his way into my lantern centerpiece, and I forgot to take him out for the picture ;-}<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VEvHIHVScyE/UN9jXslvr5I/AAAAAAAAE9I/PdoMZCIyshM/s1600/IMG_9228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VEvHIHVScyE/UN9jXslvr5I/AAAAAAAAE9I/PdoMZCIyshM/s400/IMG_9228.jpg" /></a></div>I kept my tablescape pretty simple by using my white dishes and the green water glasses I purchased for the last Thanksgiving dinner I served at my home in 2011.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-5ugtFgR-A/UN9dxuApyOI/AAAAAAAAE6I/sfDRBj-WYFg/s1600/IMG_9229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-5ugtFgR-A/UN9dxuApyOI/AAAAAAAAE6I/sfDRBj-WYFg/s400/IMG_9229.JPG" /></a></div>I folded white dinner napkins and then tied each with a red ribbon to resemble a bow. Then I tried to keep it festive by using fresh greens to adorn the top of each napkin. Simple, right?!<br />
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I also added dark red chargers with rhinestone embellishments under each plate, but they are a tad hard to see because they are round and my plates are square. Oh well, I tried ;-}<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NStS4HPw-Xw/UN9dyMb0HQI/AAAAAAAAE6U/TFATgMn6wpQ/s1600/IMG_9295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NStS4HPw-Xw/UN9dyMb0HQI/AAAAAAAAE6U/TFATgMn6wpQ/s400/IMG_9295.JPG" /></a></div>I seriously DO NOT KNOW what I'd do without this buffet table in my dining room. It serves so many purposes in my home, and I use it every time I entertain. I LOVE it, and it has been one of my favorite and most practical purchases ever. Pottery Barn Outlet, I need to spend some more quality time with you very soon. <br />
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I set up some drinks and cookies on my buffet and arranged the food on the island in my kitchen. The menu consisted of: french toast casserole, egg and sausage casserole, fresh fruit salad, sausage links, and cinnamon buns. YUMMMM! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tXgWJeIVpY4/UN9dykFve6I/AAAAAAAAE6g/QrpQwGJA_8o/s1600/IMG_9297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tXgWJeIVpY4/UN9dykFve6I/AAAAAAAAE6g/QrpQwGJA_8o/s400/IMG_9297.JPG" /></a></div>Mimosas are a MUST at brunch....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SpOnVfiZTts/UN9dzO0K5UI/AAAAAAAAE6s/UOXrFrt_it8/s1600/IMG_9304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SpOnVfiZTts/UN9dzO0K5UI/AAAAAAAAE6s/UOXrFrt_it8/s400/IMG_9304.jpg" /></a></div>...and a little cranberry spritzer never hurt anyone either ;-}<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6UFiB39CXM/UN9hK_uOs0I/AAAAAAAAE7o/mLD4J979GaI/s1600/IMG_9300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="248" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6UFiB39CXM/UN9hK_uOs0I/AAAAAAAAE7o/mLD4J979GaI/s400/IMG_9300.JPG" /></a></div>About two weeks prior to Christmas, my friend, Patty, hosted a ladies cookie exchange. Great idea and ever so helpful as I prepared to host my first ever Christmas brunch. I made chocolate covered peanuts {recipe <a href="http://limedesign-kate.blogspot.com/2011/12/gifts-neighborhood-cheer.html">here</a>}, and froze the assortment of cookies I received at the exchange. I even had plenty left over to take to my mom's house for dinner later that night.<br />
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So, that's it! Nothing earth shattering, just a fun-filled morning with family, food, and presents. Speaking of presents...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BK7qmdnd4Ks/UN9hLWcJ0qI/AAAAAAAAE70/9pN41mlkE7E/s1600/IMG_9245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="254" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BK7qmdnd4Ks/UN9hLWcJ0qI/AAAAAAAAE70/9pN41mlkE7E/s400/IMG_9245.JPG" /></a></div>...this was my favorite Christmas by far because my little mister was absolutely adorable and so much fun opening his gifts. My hubby and I try not to go overboard with gifts for a multitude of reasons, but we couldn't resist purchasing this one, little guy for our number one boy...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7uGZImg6Z_4/UN9hLzCCkHI/AAAAAAAAE8A/hrMzhXND2ak/s1600/IMG_9327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="286" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7uGZImg6Z_4/UN9hLzCCkHI/AAAAAAAAE8A/hrMzhXND2ak/s400/IMG_9327.jpg" /></a></div>...his very own dune buggie to ride around the backyard until his heart's content. And he did just that. Sheer delight when he walked outside to find this. <br />
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**I hope you and your family had a WONDERFUL holiday season!<br />
**Happy New Year! Bring on 2013! <br />
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Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15823372673975243032noreply@blogger.com0