tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66648756187941662512024-02-20T23:24:54.819-06:00tell your sister you're sorry...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger626125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-4017048124392089702014-08-14T20:36:00.002-05:002014-08-14T20:36:54.532-05:00Let's start with a pig.... and end with a tour.Last weekend we had a fantastic weekend at the cabin, and at the lake house in which my sister in law's family likes to visit a few times a year. However, I am seriously kicking myself. I took ZERO pictures. Nothing of everyone swimming, or being pulled in a tube by a boat. Or eating peanut butter pie at East Texas Burger (it seriously was the best piece yet.. but Mike keeps telling me I say that every time). We had a smashing time!<br />
<br />
But .... I finally took my camera out when the big finale of the weekend was when a few guys in the family & Maddie (Katie took off early) went hog hunting. Then Mike shot a hog. Actually, the rule was "Uncle Ben and Papa gets to shoot first" .... but Uncle Ben couldn't see the hog until he had the binoculars, so Maddie was told to take the shot. Mike tells me she went to adjusting her hot pink ear plugs then settled in to take the shot. Then she said "which side of the tree are they on?" SHE couldn't even see the huge family of hogs either! So Mike grabbed the gun out of her hands, and shot a piglet (aka.. a year and a half hog that weighs about 100 lbs). He didn't want the big sow. <br />
<br />
So our neighbor brings it over to us in his big green tractor (in the bucket), deposits it and Mike lifts it in the tree. Then I was told "get your camera". Now, we had an amazing moon at the same time, so I tried to do a little (snort) creative photography of what I'm sure is the ONLY picture known to mankind around of a moon and a pigs head. It's terrible, but here it is for your enjoyment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJ8HWECD16cI2RA4herVV_2yMsOIaKMPNrF8tAF2PqlELLRae_sLed0aP2u_17FRA7gxEH2EOVhdZaYDsna9L617VTsjNWbKRZqrXgXOUv0j5kgmDnkLg8HLg1JYehMkAENwVRpA33w/s1600/IMG_1529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJ8HWECD16cI2RA4herVV_2yMsOIaKMPNrF8tAF2PqlELLRae_sLed0aP2u_17FRA7gxEH2EOVhdZaYDsna9L617VTsjNWbKRZqrXgXOUv0j5kgmDnkLg8HLg1JYehMkAENwVRpA33w/s1600/IMG_1529.JPG" height="640" width="427" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYemBk9KgTKTPwuUik0hU5cXDL6LbP-1Ly8Qc09pG0aRMK7Zh17JQb6tgnXblaimycn2an16mRujsGNcDZ6VEhs4CdkGxwSNa1FnzOShA0XJz2e31IA17JQiCBJ9NaFQblBcGZEk6rQ/s1600/IMG_1530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYemBk9KgTKTPwuUik0hU5cXDL6LbP-1Ly8Qc09pG0aRMK7Zh17JQb6tgnXblaimycn2an16mRujsGNcDZ6VEhs4CdkGxwSNa1FnzOShA0XJz2e31IA17JQiCBJ9NaFQblBcGZEk6rQ/s1600/IMG_1530.JPG" height="640" width="427" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
My brother in law Ben with the hog </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1OgTblynkMz_NG1qFrEo5eJCXET-8pq_ldO4GYm1R9c-m3MzEeXI3yf7HqK2yR7gGQcxW_14XOyV_92eN4yFT11EMHr_rHWb3z0Fq_6Vkg-0BFaYTQp8wWyXSvcQtXCzqmqpDWsi6w/s1600/IMG_1531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1OgTblynkMz_NG1qFrEo5eJCXET-8pq_ldO4GYm1R9c-m3MzEeXI3yf7HqK2yR7gGQcxW_14XOyV_92eN4yFT11EMHr_rHWb3z0Fq_6Vkg-0BFaYTQp8wWyXSvcQtXCzqmqpDWsi6w/s1600/IMG_1531.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-n0mo62CZFCTEAcOfgYliSj2QwCzqjMclEM_YVjPD7VfxZBygiy4ceg9J_ks3FuaVIuTBcgEELUWKVpPUsqqm-wD38qIc0_LawA8B8QPZo3eCC1sJZzl8thGmLQ-Kthw0D4nTEeKVXw/s1600/IMG_1540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-n0mo62CZFCTEAcOfgYliSj2QwCzqjMclEM_YVjPD7VfxZBygiy4ceg9J_ks3FuaVIuTBcgEELUWKVpPUsqqm-wD38qIc0_LawA8B8QPZo3eCC1sJZzl8thGmLQ-Kthw0D4nTEeKVXw/s1600/IMG_1540.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi725ZWzPjjPGvA0swDT9kYFqcmq0V_bfZNI6O-uzj6Bbao7SgRPzXGSHTUwOMj-rtUCqWm20t8AbbNl-7ONplIHGPwW5Xe5XJzaLdEExAj3VIUlW9FmOp42pd8OQhTajm8G8sowI2HRw/s1600/IMG_1545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi725ZWzPjjPGvA0swDT9kYFqcmq0V_bfZNI6O-uzj6Bbao7SgRPzXGSHTUwOMj-rtUCqWm20t8AbbNl-7ONplIHGPwW5Xe5XJzaLdEExAj3VIUlW9FmOp42pd8OQhTajm8G8sowI2HRw/s1600/IMG_1545.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
OK ... now that the hog business is done, let's move on to the newest addition to our cabin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
THE FLOOR!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mike put in bamboo flooring a few weeks ago, and we absolutely LOVE it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now it gives me opportunity to do the one thing I love more than life itself. Mop.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just kidding. I abhor mopping. I pay my kids to mop so I don't have to do it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdl1lgo6MII6fV1Qr7jSOUB-4WtcAe1Mql6gIb9bLqZA9t5N43LdAqwnW3an83MlRCovshUqmjoy7LlGQCORNJYezha9Ph1wPFFTSCEPVlCsCgyrETJ33p_uWgxSIXpfqF_DY874Bag/s1600/IMG_1548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdl1lgo6MII6fV1Qr7jSOUB-4WtcAe1Mql6gIb9bLqZA9t5N43LdAqwnW3an83MlRCovshUqmjoy7LlGQCORNJYezha9Ph1wPFFTSCEPVlCsCgyrETJ33p_uWgxSIXpfqF_DY874Bag/s1600/IMG_1548.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Also on the same trip, Mike finished texturing and painting the walls!! it's done!</div>
<div align="center">
Cue the "Hallelujah" chorus!</div>
<div align="center">
It is a bad photo ... but you get the idea. it's done.</div>
<div align="center">
Now to get a steer head w/ LONG horns to put up on the wall. </div>
<div align="center">
If I can ever find one that isn't $31,984.92. <em><span style="font-size: x-small;"> (just kidding, but they aren't cheap)</span></em></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEgeQD_2C3a6RXTF1TpVGPBMKONC0Rvn61fu5yQguyWcODyRBire693WTN0GdBE3PmE2dffp97J_9V7Cwc6a9aMBHf66ViSOJrUi7Yyb3q7qrEAbjJN1X3E0_Ma1i53ai4EN5gClcIHA/s1600/IMG_1549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEgeQD_2C3a6RXTF1TpVGPBMKONC0Rvn61fu5yQguyWcODyRBire693WTN0GdBE3PmE2dffp97J_9V7Cwc6a9aMBHf66ViSOJrUi7Yyb3q7qrEAbjJN1X3E0_Ma1i53ai4EN5gClcIHA/s1600/IMG_1549.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and here is another fashion show of the floor..</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqigmb5pATveX_BwdNqUDsSkwbrBi_r51nNfvNTnFOEngSowuBBsT6P7az7Qe0zQEEzCwvin5aa5wXRldOUbGSoAuF8GHm14BNgprK8eafNZhGf6524jMVjqELtuURDwnKvid6cnwXQ/s1600/IMG_1552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqigmb5pATveX_BwdNqUDsSkwbrBi_r51nNfvNTnFOEngSowuBBsT6P7az7Qe0zQEEzCwvin5aa5wXRldOUbGSoAuF8GHm14BNgprK8eafNZhGf6524jMVjqELtuURDwnKvid6cnwXQ/s1600/IMG_1552.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
during the same time period (he was up there for a week), he built a closet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now we have a place for our toilet paper to call home! You can never have too much toilet paper.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or water.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja75ZDK2-86l7S2UvjL9euaHtttEhkPRpuSOC4EU_sk28PVokSEV_ilhS8Jy51_x5TngOXLXIx-_w2GoYrrr9NakqDdJUs1Y1ScubDhLpXlIF4VJxMqvQDdTWPGG19tFE56EtyvVrQEw/s1600/IMG_1554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja75ZDK2-86l7S2UvjL9euaHtttEhkPRpuSOC4EU_sk28PVokSEV_ilhS8Jy51_x5TngOXLXIx-_w2GoYrrr9NakqDdJUs1Y1ScubDhLpXlIF4VJxMqvQDdTWPGG19tFE56EtyvVrQEw/s1600/IMG_1554.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
another view of our amazing, yet super-small-but-it-works-perfectly-for-us cabin!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9zF4FF24k29825tQbR0fJYC9C1eGWO4IIcIgdJkB_PtXNuy1yRMTeKpYqOa192QgJLP7IpkPjc-NjizBpB5yIwhNuiNGKzHHd6OuW28Ol7gbfXDVGcdpy2kXA3Nv-1QHP3iNHiqBGQ/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9zF4FF24k29825tQbR0fJYC9C1eGWO4IIcIgdJkB_PtXNuy1yRMTeKpYqOa192QgJLP7IpkPjc-NjizBpB5yIwhNuiNGKzHHd6OuW28Ol7gbfXDVGcdpy2kXA3Nv-1QHP3iNHiqBGQ/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Now I have gotten quite a few requests of what our property looks like as a whole. So I took pictures through each step of the way, so you can feel like you're there as well!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
In the beginning.... it was a huge mess. HUGE mess. I couldn't envision what Mike saw when we bought this. I saw a jungle. Now I see beauty and I'm so grateful for Mike's vision.</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
This is looking AT the gates from our property. This is looking at the road that we will come off on.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRidmMcVN0q3heoIaXZiGwxGqAERYX74YVriOBcdi8R8pGaie-zfKE-0FwGxi9-HSjUobLI0LeLIlZZ4whR9NR51Qs5q3bMNShaHeChm8VahdEbKWHKM4zSAc_YzBmCyg1y3AEH-kGgg/s1600/IMG_1562-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRidmMcVN0q3heoIaXZiGwxGqAERYX74YVriOBcdi8R8pGaie-zfKE-0FwGxi9-HSjUobLI0LeLIlZZ4whR9NR51Qs5q3bMNShaHeChm8VahdEbKWHKM4zSAc_YzBmCyg1y3AEH-kGgg/s1600/IMG_1562-001.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
OK, this picture is looking from the road to start the journey...</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8-sal791sfFT7LiMhFe8MWLAE6u1t60jqeJhAj5PcFw4jPoKAsVHvxdqAlSJlSL0f7pqsN_bZt_oUz9xuWTSLKUn6a6UOgHf3iEyNI261V0B6jcmtKYOcLSPW-OgNrHrERhSf5GEOA/s1600/IMG_1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8-sal791sfFT7LiMhFe8MWLAE6u1t60jqeJhAj5PcFw4jPoKAsVHvxdqAlSJlSL0f7pqsN_bZt_oUz9xuWTSLKUn6a6UOgHf3iEyNI261V0B6jcmtKYOcLSPW-OgNrHrERhSf5GEOA/s1600/IMG_1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8-sal791sfFT7LiMhFe8MWLAE6u1t60jqeJhAj5PcFw4jPoKAsVHvxdqAlSJlSL0f7pqsN_bZt_oUz9xuWTSLKUn6a6UOgHf3iEyNI261V0B6jcmtKYOcLSPW-OgNrHrERhSf5GEOA/s1600/IMG_1563.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDKVx4K76mZBSW-SB1yTfB-9bvPbM7DLKZZCB5PUAz12eCurTBT7ypqZ-T_7APcjdHiBVdY7dZn-klHUSktNK6WxviVRHOjsIFV-hczNMOKFQvBnOkzKK6XrJq1rV77nLQK_XjOR8Eg/s1600/IMG_1564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDKVx4K76mZBSW-SB1yTfB-9bvPbM7DLKZZCB5PUAz12eCurTBT7ypqZ-T_7APcjdHiBVdY7dZn-klHUSktNK6WxviVRHOjsIFV-hczNMOKFQvBnOkzKK6XrJq1rV77nLQK_XjOR8Eg/s1600/IMG_1564.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now right as soon as we drive onto the property, on the immediate right, there is a small trail that was made for the girls to drive around on. It never gets used though b/c the rest of the trail has a ton of thorny grapevines growing, and we can never seem to cut it back fast enough.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqf3XOFhZl83CWi0WpnH4V5Foiufhu4KrdIzWdDXR7UkIb_IMq6Is_LqXBHil1FugawBkh4sD4Ez12rsu9iYatQRKtazp4H-tpmMADjMiwYoDDb3DXA1FzsD-a1AsujZVfQed66HXnmg/s1600/IMG_1565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqf3XOFhZl83CWi0WpnH4V5Foiufhu4KrdIzWdDXR7UkIb_IMq6Is_LqXBHil1FugawBkh4sD4Ez12rsu9iYatQRKtazp4H-tpmMADjMiwYoDDb3DXA1FzsD-a1AsujZVfQed66HXnmg/s1600/IMG_1565.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83COJQj9PFyJUwuv_3fuW2WT4KPUMp6Jphn8Gldngi4tVBW6h_LTpmKoCAgAcJsEq9N6EgvVCPF3qvB5z4nBCV-kTWDOI1OUqc20KayznBQIwyIhfyaglbx6VHPhkW7D7DzUZQrrzlg/s1600/IMG_1566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83COJQj9PFyJUwuv_3fuW2WT4KPUMp6Jphn8Gldngi4tVBW6h_LTpmKoCAgAcJsEq9N6EgvVCPF3qvB5z4nBCV-kTWDOI1OUqc20KayznBQIwyIhfyaglbx6VHPhkW7D7DzUZQrrzlg/s1600/IMG_1566.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
After you go around the corner, this is what you will see... a huge open space</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfQ9vN8-ue6PyOV8xsHqDJiy1MA9dd_8wYDGRvYtFCBnCQylsbHiz52nGsGAfGEl4KXXbh7gI5Wwxkc7jI75zrYiI8lA2d1fPqsTLx71ERSoKgzWHkP-YJpDqt80P0-JNfvWu_LKEAQ/s1600/IMG_1567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfQ9vN8-ue6PyOV8xsHqDJiy1MA9dd_8wYDGRvYtFCBnCQylsbHiz52nGsGAfGEl4KXXbh7gI5Wwxkc7jI75zrYiI8lA2d1fPqsTLx71ERSoKgzWHkP-YJpDqt80P0-JNfvWu_LKEAQ/s1600/IMG_1567.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEGp5GiEN9BXljvQlCbPBIiuLFB6Z2ErXlDFotyf1_qC56m0Be66iVeM1c6sgdsPYZbAfK_rCaLaU9gMj_LfDqlS2AN-pE4YyhFs0YNxsZVP8KmoS-KA15lrwAIRYE72-27J979Mj3A/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEGp5GiEN9BXljvQlCbPBIiuLFB6Z2ErXlDFotyf1_qC56m0Be66iVeM1c6sgdsPYZbAfK_rCaLaU9gMj_LfDqlS2AN-pE4YyhFs0YNxsZVP8KmoS-KA15lrwAIRYE72-27J979Mj3A/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhP-eZAoOLbaXLY1DYGbT7ykwUbFLletQnLs6QLMQj5if-Mw2dRfHzNtVxCKArQH6QE_FIq8-2uyK3yP3EnfJX0CKoIYwocJOfXSNB5FXZ6kSbmMs3GHe_U1G9F-D_zXNcOfZTb3LNg/s1600/IMG_1569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhP-eZAoOLbaXLY1DYGbT7ykwUbFLletQnLs6QLMQj5if-Mw2dRfHzNtVxCKArQH6QE_FIq8-2uyK3yP3EnfJX0CKoIYwocJOfXSNB5FXZ6kSbmMs3GHe_U1G9F-D_zXNcOfZTb3LNg/s1600/IMG_1569.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhSj3ciSdeFsdEAktRfBYrZH2ZcYHNPNuVGx9lspSgLM3cJJOoco7bi7CagAH_DmKZ1NPXFqKdXAmt3P1ylG3eF0fGi-JbhffT6edppqLRWoWQNSFFZFECg_CgW2jhKi7vd5Q8VrT1w/s1600/IMG_1571-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhSj3ciSdeFsdEAktRfBYrZH2ZcYHNPNuVGx9lspSgLM3cJJOoco7bi7CagAH_DmKZ1NPXFqKdXAmt3P1ylG3eF0fGi-JbhffT6edppqLRWoWQNSFFZFECg_CgW2jhKi7vd5Q8VrT1w/s1600/IMG_1571-001.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8bGkq4MdnQywaa8lttLJb9i2yL_Eizo5TU4Go-6oPnQqmYVtyDLyxk4pVZmv3N9EOtqBqFtHNZhlMoszierf61vimU-x8FXllV883aZEv_RNFrLZIncc_T8aA5cXz3ajeN9txzBGhg/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8bGkq4MdnQywaa8lttLJb9i2yL_Eizo5TU4Go-6oPnQqmYVtyDLyxk4pVZmv3N9EOtqBqFtHNZhlMoszierf61vimU-x8FXllV883aZEv_RNFrLZIncc_T8aA5cXz3ajeN9txzBGhg/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7j9ASPhAocEMMgq_yHSnwTONg9q_bHY1aI_p0SHbze940HaSCkZfRtgcyS4ohcY-Ja1Dbp7cm5Kn2E9cD4J2Tz3xzn2PDfu6jWmhzsdUezY1o0wmjhU2z3qRCxO9EjsC-QgGzB_wW0A/s1600/IMG_1573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7j9ASPhAocEMMgq_yHSnwTONg9q_bHY1aI_p0SHbze940HaSCkZfRtgcyS4ohcY-Ja1Dbp7cm5Kn2E9cD4J2Tz3xzn2PDfu6jWmhzsdUezY1o0wmjhU2z3qRCxO9EjsC-QgGzB_wW0A/s1600/IMG_1573.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is where that trail starts .... it is a nice trail, if we can ever abolish the thorny grapevines</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCnTMtOcQNT4g_CJryVcDoDppTG1iNo1TYUOZxXJEAuHtGpUR9HO7G9sgiu8UIU1OUvlLAniay6UNvRdxE7ilShjgftmXhcDIOoTJuZ1BYkBQo7km-pknHwNlUWJkPQ13E_l1LnqOWA/s1600/IMG_1574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCnTMtOcQNT4g_CJryVcDoDppTG1iNo1TYUOZxXJEAuHtGpUR9HO7G9sgiu8UIU1OUvlLAniay6UNvRdxE7ilShjgftmXhcDIOoTJuZ1BYkBQo7km-pknHwNlUWJkPQ13E_l1LnqOWA/s1600/IMG_1574.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We love our little area in the piney woods. We may not have anything "Piney" growing yet ... but hopefully someday after we clear more out, we'll be able to grow some Pine trees on the property. <br />It's the perfect place to sit on the porch, enjoy the peace and quiet and tranquility. I am so proud of Mike for having this dream for his family -- he has truly created and built a beautiful place for hopefully generations to come. Many happy memories have already been made here by our little family and other families who have come to visit, and hopefully many more happy memories for more years to come!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GqEIhhPghYNvRbSKST41upMYS1eXzI_iTgSNddJz14czqRlBOifZiT4PworpgAL155gJVkZy1c0vDZRK2Go2yyhI7fiUPNIxO-Y0jSgkKIfx9cxxcpvkQuexSfRrHH5C6XdDuYe1tQ/s1600/IMG_1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GqEIhhPghYNvRbSKST41upMYS1eXzI_iTgSNddJz14czqRlBOifZiT4PworpgAL155gJVkZy1c0vDZRK2Go2yyhI7fiUPNIxO-Y0jSgkKIfx9cxxcpvkQuexSfRrHH5C6XdDuYe1tQ/s1600/IMG_1559.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for visiting!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More cabin updates to come in the near future!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
psst.... we're expanding!! Yikes! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-43201561531801951832014-07-07T20:00:00.001-05:002014-07-07T20:02:05.703-05:00Fourth of July at the Cabin ... and more cabin updates!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know it's been five months... and I sorely miss blogging!. We had an adventurous 4th of July this past weekend, and I just HAD to blog and share our progress and adventures!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Down the road by our cabin is a "U-pick-it blueberry farm". It has been on my <em>"Momma's Bucket List to do w/ the girls"</em> list since they were toddlers. Needless to say, it's always closed.... no matter when we go. Probably something to do with blueberries having to be<em><strong> IN SEASON</strong></em>! Anyways, last week I had the bright idea to see if it was in fact open, and it WAS!! So the girls and I headed over to the blueberry farm (orchard?!) for an hour of picking blueberries. Only one blueberry was placed in the mouth (that was me). We had a great time, and only paid $8 for a HUGE bucket of blueberries! They are a bit tart .... but that's OK. I love a good deal, and it beats paying $2.50 in the store for a small pint size container!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14600007502" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_1288 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1288" height="333" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3879/14600007502_5029e291bc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Katie the camo punk girl holds up a blueberry .... </div>
<div align="center">
(she wore her hair and hat like that ALL weekend long)</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14413990810" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_1289 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1289" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5479/14413990810_a709824b8f.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14598674594" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_1292 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1292" height="333" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/14598674594_3e27ac18dc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14600006622" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_1296 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1296" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3897/14600006622_a26e76d1fc.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
"Girls.. pick the ones that are PURPLE! Not pink!"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14577615606" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_1299 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1299" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5539/14577615606_d53afd5723.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14600627845" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_1300 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1300" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2931/14600627845_46a4bb48ac.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
By now, our bucket is only 3/4 of the way full, but sweat was dripping off of our noses and we were tired and frankly .... ready to call it a day there. It was only maybe 9:30 in the morning.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14414213817" title="IMG_1305 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1305" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3917/14414213817_9395ec4d61.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Later that night we headed down the road to the lake and grabbed a <em>(horribly bad)</em> spot to watch the fireworks. The girls placed their chairs in the truck and had fun. Needless to say since we were in a bad area (tons of trees in our vision), we left early. Now we know where to park next year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14620701063" title="IMG_1306 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1306" height="333" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3855/14620701063_2da5727656.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On our property, we have lots of studs. (lumber... that needs to be used)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is one of the studs that can be found on the property.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ha ha ha... (I know, bad humor)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14600005392" title="IMG_1310 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1310" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5486/14600005392_bd276ff73e.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Earlier this year, Mike threw our other picnic into the fire b/c termites pretty much ate the thing up. Not to mention it was fit for a giant to eat at (it was so huge and tall... our feet never touched the ground). So, placing concrete .... things.. on the ground, he built another picnic table. This is MUCH better as far as proportions go, but definitely our nieces and nephews will need to sit on their knees again, or eat on the porch. Still a bit tall -- but at least we touch the ground!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We spread mulch on the ground, so now it smells all purdy like cedar.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14620700213" title="IMG_1328 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1328" height="333" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2900/14620700213_715f868c2b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mike started landscaping a bit... placing more concrete.. things... on the ground in front of the porch. Lattice fencing will go under the porch .. eventually.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14620699143" title="IMG_1330 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1330" height="333" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3883/14620699143_17f5eff7bd.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14413987000" title="IMG_1331 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1331" height="333" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3849/14413987000_96e960409e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Due to all the break ins we had last year (four in total) -- and the last one they tried to get in through the window, Mike built closeable shutters that open and shut (and lock for when we're not there). I absolutely love them. We'll paint them green to match the bottom of the cabin and the top part of the cabin. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14600624475" title="IMG_1334 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1334" height="333" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2917/14600624475_ebf49e9f55.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14598670054" title="IMG_1337 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1337" height="333" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3896/14598670054_e765079da9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and since I need to help a little here and there... trimming is all I do. Mike tells me I rock at it. I hate trimming. Ever since I got into whatever it was three years ago and developed a HUGE rash (probably poison ivy) ... I avoid it like the plague. But I sported around a long sleeve shirt and gloves and got the job done. I cut down trees (ok, they were probably 1-3 inches thick, so not sure I can QUITE call them trees), and lots of branches -- so now our entry way into the property looks much cleaner. Had a few spiders drop on me that scared Katie away. So much for my kids looking out for me....<br />
<br />
I managed to pull down a TON of grapevine growing on the trees (really, strangling the trees). A lot of the vines had green grapes growing on them. I consider it a huge accomplishment if I can pull down a huge section of grapevine!! Those suckers are hard to pull!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14597347191" title="IMG_1338 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1338" height="333" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5560/14597347191_d6e27f7761.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and when the girls aren't riding the four wheelers around the property, you can find them playing badminton. However, they're not playing right now, so enjoy the picture of two trees with a net in between it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14577611286" title="IMG_1340 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1340" height="333" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3888/14577611286_2734f3bd04.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
another closeup picture of the concrete... things. Now we can stamp our feet to get the sand off even more before we step onto the porch.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14600001342" title="IMG_1341 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1341" height="333" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5480/14600001342_2ff695a2cb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the final look of what the shutters look like closed and locked.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14414016198" title="IMG_1348 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1348" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2897/14414016198_7015ecab83.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*** WARNING *** DEAD INSECT BELOW **</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and finally... a dead scorpion. I had <em><u><strong>NO STINKING CLUE</strong></u></em> we had scorpions on the property. I have NEVER seen a scorpion since we've moved to Texas six years ago. Mike managed to never TELL me we had scorpions in the CABIN in the early stages. In the Jacuzzi tub!! Well, after coming home from fireworks it was right NEXT to the front door (I call it the front door, Mike calls it the back door)... and Katie shouted "SCORPION!" and Maddie came to the rescue and promptly stomped the crap out of it. Lovely. We shall call Maddie <em>"The Insect Stomper"</em> or <em>"The Insect Killer"</em> from here on out b/c she managed to kill a mini tarantula for me yesterday. At least, it was a big spider that was really fuzzy, and big. :: shudder ::</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/14620695863" title="IMG_1342 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1342" height="333" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2903/14620695863_83f054af05.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So altogether we (remember I say we, and I really mean Mike) got a LOT done and it really is coming along fantastically!! We (Mike) has gotten a lot done inside of the cabin as well, but I have no pictures to share of that .... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Until next time.... :)
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-91994002633885298992014-02-07T12:23:00.001-06:002014-02-07T15:27:00.365-06:00Katie turns Sweet 16!I can't believe how fast time flies.... especially when I remember holding my newborn baby girl in my arms, and seeing her now as a beautiful young woman. Sometimes I wish they would stop growing...<br />
<br />
When I was 16 ... my family made it a special day for me. So, naturally I wanted to do the same for Katie.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="333" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12368024674/player/ebf4e25503" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
One of the family lines is through the Tiffany family (of the famous Tiffany & Co -- yes, that same line) ... and since Katie LOVES the color blue, namely turquoise, or the Tiffany blue color, I was going to do a Tiffany & Co party. However.. b/c we had boys coming, and to have jewels and all that all around, we sort of went away with that idea, and just did a basic color theme. And polka dots...</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
So she didn't care what I did .... so I picked turquoise & red. Boy, was it an awesome choice!!</div>
<div align="center">
My fabulous friend Christine hosted this at her gorgeous home, and had a lot of decorations on hand already. She is so talented in decorating!! </div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMum06egJ_YWqWQzuxtoWqVqniPTecUXbu2gWvdjChfVNEKIcZVupws232M9nabqyT-WMI8PZrJ5YADEd3pLSYsBZeFTY5CBHke-tQkAwBOb7NtoSIqaV9SfEM9HHNAWYbalOeDNmWw/s1600/IMG_8297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMum06egJ_YWqWQzuxtoWqVqniPTecUXbu2gWvdjChfVNEKIcZVupws232M9nabqyT-WMI8PZrJ5YADEd3pLSYsBZeFTY5CBHke-tQkAwBOb7NtoSIqaV9SfEM9HHNAWYbalOeDNmWw/s1600/IMG_8297.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div align="center">
We had cake, with a Tiffany box typed cake. Then, a candy bar that was on the same table as the cake. There was also a popcorn bar on a different table. Since this activity took place in Texas, where it can be warm in January -- we played outside games to start the party. Everyone received a glow in the dark necklace and a few bracelets. Then we went outside and played glow in the dark kickball (with a kickball that did NOT hold up to its name! BOO!). After we played a few rounds of that (which was so much fun!), they played the hula hoop game -- basically getting into two groups and they join hands. A hula hoop is placed in between two people, and the circle that can pass the hula hoop through everyone wins! it was hilarious!</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
After those games, we came inside to eat cake and stock up on candy .. and popcorn. Because after all of that, we went outside to watch a movie -- Despicable Me 2 -- it was a TAD bit cold that night -- but everyone had blankets and chairs. All in all, everyone had a blast of fun. </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
This is what the party decorations looked like:</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367532965/player/a05c2718d2" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367723193/player/b067a2ae31" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
What is it about giant Pixie Sticks that makes everyone grab those first? I bought 50 of those suckers.. Katie had 6 herself. :: rolling eyes ::</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367702693/player/311299dd18" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367704353/player/69b6354f58" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367702843/player/3d2c505f51" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367991634/player/e5f2481b06" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367704223/player/ae221a60d4" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
The balloons were duct taped to the ceiling, and at the bottom of the ribbon, were pictures being held up with a clothespin (that was spray painted to match the colors)</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367707803/player/7e5c8408b8" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367992324/player/92e6ac86ab" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367705343/player/6c84fbfb92" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367537705/player/8546037d61" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367706783/player/df475109a7" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367537775/player/334eb50f15" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12368197914/player/f5f7d405e7" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367709263/player/846e3a2c0d" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367994854/player/9049cab2dd" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367995874/player/1581c39ea8" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
We also had a photo booth!! It wasn't SUPER popular, but a lot of kids did get into the action.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367709123/player/0a303d1c0a" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The banner is basically letters cut out from a Cricut, glued onto scrapbook paper, glued onto a paper plate. Tulle is holding each plate to each other.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367997404/player/4905f97ff9" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367997884/player/f5574b5d75" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367541945/player/1331543407" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367998084/player/b7ae18ac54" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
The popcorn bar had candy to put in the bag along with the popcorn, as well as spray butter (not on table), and different types of toppings (seasonings). I also had four types of popcorn on the table: caramel, popcorn drizzled with milk & white chocolate, and popcorn made with coconut oil (went super fast!) and popcorn made with vegetable oil (a whole tub leftover!).</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367978444/player/f45fab081b" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367691763/player/7b93407acb" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br />
<br />
and to wrap up this blog post... here are a few of the cute photo booth pics!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367751005/player/39cd1b96e2" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12368200664/player/90a163ff90" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br />
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMum06egJ_YWqWQzuxtoWqVqniPTecUXbu2gWvdjChfVNEKIcZVupws232M9nabqyT-WMI8PZrJ5YADEd3pLSYsBZeFTY5CBHke-tQkAwBOb7NtoSIqaV9SfEM9HHNAWYbalOeDNmWw/s1600/IMG_8297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367915663/player/de6f7a934e" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-58601780021042564182014-02-07T11:41:00.001-06:002014-02-07T11:41:16.191-06:00Putting on a deck... at the propertyMike has been working on a deck at the property. I was thinking it was a small deck... but when I saw it, I was thinking "Holy Guacamole! This deck is HUGE!" <br />
<br />
Now... it has fancy railings too. I spent FOREVER... painting these suckers. It has to be JUST right.... no drip spots, nothing. Mike only finished it about 3/4 of the way through before bad weather hit, and we had to call it quits. But, he's done a GREAT job, and it looks very nice. He's mostly looking forward to hunting from the deck (yes, he has a feeder already set up and it's in the nice range of view from the deck).
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366819385/player/47054c9b42" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366818405/player/025cee07ba" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Unfortunately, because of all the break ins we had last year (four total...), our windows will be rocking those awesome steel bars as well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cue: angry face</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366816405/player/d20bffeea3" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366816525/player/90ae4cd6d2" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Our friend put a stand up in a tree directly in line of the feeder on our property, and so the girls were often found going up and down that tree... sometimes just to read in it, or to text. I had to laugh at them when I heard a few times "HELP! I can't get down...."</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Katie.... was found IN the cabin a lot, reading her books and texting.. a new friend. </div>
<div align="center">
I, on the other hand, enjoyed pulling all the fallen trees on the property and creating huge bonfires. </div>
<div align="center">
This is the best time of year to do it -- when the snakes (are hopefully) deep underground b/c it's so cold. And... of course, poison ivy is nowhere to be found. In the summer? Forget it -- you will not catch me in that area!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366816585/player/110fc98899" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367266724/player/4c60b36cff" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-85409744143670152892014-02-07T11:31:00.000-06:002014-02-07T11:31:07.506-06:00Thanksgiving at the CabinWe absolutely love Thanksgiving at the cabin. It is so relaxing, a little cold, and we have lots of bonfires to sit in front of and watch the beautiful stars.<br />
<br />
This year my parents & my brother & his family came down from Missouri to celebrate Thanksgiving with us. We just bought a metal storage unit.... and like rednecks that we probably tend to be, they slept in there (complete w/ carpet and heating units to keep them warm!). My parents slept in the cabin with us. <br />
<br />
Before they arrived, Mike and I went to town (remember, we're kind of far from town... ) and bought half of our kitchen cabinets. We both absolutely LOVE this style of cabinets, as it reminds us of what a cabin style cabinet should look like. We'll add more to it later this year, but at LEAST.. I have a kitchen sink now, and I no longer have to do dishes in the bathtub or outside with the water hose.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367352394/player/837300a347" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mike built new steps complete w/ a handy "hold on for your life" handlebars. It is actually pretty cool. He did it earlier, but he only put in maybe 3 steps, so it was more like rock climbing to our bed every night. It had to go.... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366907645/player/05aa294bc7" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mike loves riding around on our neighbor's John Deere tractor...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367073433/player/3f96b3601e" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maddie shot her first animal! It was actually a 6 point buck. Not bad for the first time Maddie!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366906005/player/29f456c41f" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maddie 'n Liam loved playing together.....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They both are such hams.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367358404/player/d30f9e474f" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
While Maddie 'n Liam hung out together, Katie & Joshua were buddies.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366904415/player/3010a291d2" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finally a picture any grandparent who only has 4 grandkids would love to have hanging on their wall.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367072593/player/ff61f6e372" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-84375330617815065042014-02-07T11:21:00.001-06:002014-02-07T11:21:06.464-06:00Miss Maddie is a Beehive!Miss Maddie turned 12 last fall -- and when a girl turns 12 in our church, she gets moved up to the Young Women's group (ages 12 - 18 year olds) .... they in turn are separated by three groups, from 12-13 year olds (Beehives),14-15 year olds (Mia Maids), and 16-18 year olds (Laurels). <br />
<br />
Our YW leaders (which, I am one of them...) spoil these adorable girls when they turn 12 and give them a huge bouquet of "Beehive" stuff. :) They love it!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366903915/player/f6352e505c" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366902305/player/0a4f9f6f1e" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="334"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367069023/player/6fcea18590" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367355644/player/2b6f35cb2d" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367068373/player/3166af3c1d" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12366900385/player/cb40a3ece3" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="334" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/12367353024/player/d8e96ce38b" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-59588909825751898992013-09-03T17:37:00.000-05:002013-09-03T17:37:37.319-05:00Building a Cabin ... part 238I've written so many blog posts on our updates of building a cabin.. that I have officially given up on keeping track just what number I'm on exactly. <br />
<br />
But, it's time to get back in gear with this blog and update on our cabin life!<br />
<br />
We went to the cabin this past weekend .... and we (remember, I use the term "we" very loosely here) managed to finish the ceiling of the cabin, and start the framing of our deck!<br />
<br />
I say "we", and I do have to admit, my girls are either lying on the bed watching season 3 of Duck Dynasty that I picked up for $9.96 at Walmart .... or they're riding the four wheelers outside... or they're eating. <br />
<br />
I (emphasize I), hold a board here and there for Mike. I did do something important!<br />
<br />
So we get to the cabin, and lo and behold as soon as I take my shoes off in the cabin, my foot hits one of those cockleburs. OWW! They're all over the place. They're hanging on our pants, on our shoelaces, on our tennis shoes. They're even UNDER our shoes. So our shoes are back on our feet for good in the cabin.. unless you want some type of needle inserted in your foot?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="427" id="yui_3_7_3_3_1378246902204_445" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7288/9668639312_2aa57413d3_c.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
I go outside and I find these wicked plants. I had always wondered what they look like on a plant. Now I know! <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2851/9665409507_45202fc8e8_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
While Mike is busy getting the front part of the deck ready the girls are out four wheeling. I put the sprinklers on to keep the dust down to a minimum. It gets REALLY dusty around here when they ride their four wheelers!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3771/9668638766_ea84c16508_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3727/9668639136_975a06acd3_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Here is Mike getting ready to add the mesh to the cover the openings.. so wildlife (aka raccoons, possums, etc) won't get in. I have to say that I did do my part here.. Katie drove us to Lowe's (we lived), I bought the mesh, Katie drove us back, I spray painted it, and I cut it. Let the record be known that one should ALWAYS wear gloves when cutting this mesh up. Let's say I was bleeding in a few places on my hands. Owww...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2867/9668639158_eb06bbd22b_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5491/9668638096_612dc73258_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
After Mike starts to hear the thunder start to roll in, I hurry off to my photo shoot, which takes place exactly across the street from our cabin! Our friend has his girls in for the weekend, and had some great ideas -- so I was game! I think it all turned out really well!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5525/9665407247_a302699aa4_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7286/9668636552_0644621f7e_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5449/9665406767_241aa4cf71_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
On our last day at the cabin, Mike set about to finish putting up the ceiling in the cabin. It took a few hours (and my part on helping him hold the boards, and handing the boards up to him... see, I do important work!) -- but we can say the ceiling is 99% done! I think he did a BEAUTIFUL job!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5479/9668635744_41e939d607_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3826/9665404119_4f93544440_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2894/9665401633_9981362f4d_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
A few months ago (or rather, earlier this year), Mike put up two beams at the top of the loft. It is very scratchy... and I have had several splinters come from this already! He also built a ladder, since ours was stolen from one of the three robberies we had. However, he might have spaced them a *little* too far apart. It's like rock climbing to the loft.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3754/9668634752_4255827773_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3772/9668633398_aa8342d9c9_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
By the time we left, this is what our cabin looks like so far... our doors and windows are boarded up to prevent future robberies, our deck is slowly being framed in, and all is well on the eastern Texas front.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7348/9668634596_38aceb0c14_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
The girls took one last time around on the ATV's .... <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/9665406257_5fa7e9068c_z.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7456/9665402111_535f355b5a_z.jpg" /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-90121316774823914722013-05-19T07:00:00.000-05:002013-05-19T07:00:09.934-05:00Fundraisers... what a painNow that I am serving with the Young Women ..... we prepare for them to go to camp each summer. This usually starts with a huge fundraiser. <br />
<br />
This year, a recipe book was done -- and we hosted a country themed dinner asking ladies of our church to bring in main dishes of the recipes they contributed to the cookbook.<br />
<br />
I was over the decorations ... and Katie & her best friend Madison were under me. They told me the colors that they wanted to use, went through Pinterest to find some country looking decorations, and took off with what we had. We had $50 to spend. <br />
<br />
We spent $130 at least. Oops.<br />
<br />
But at least we got a bunch of the money back because we sold a bunch of the decorations after the fundraiser was over!<br />
<br />
Burlap ... is a nasty word around here in our home. I had gotten 10 yards from Hobby Lobby using a 40% off coupon, and two friends came over to help me cut those down to 1 yard square pieces for the table covers (that went over white tableclothes). Then the remaining pieces went around mason jars, complete with a red and white gingham print ribbon around that. We placed white, yellow and some type of green flowers in the mason jars, and added cheap babys breath. It was beautiful!<br />
<br />
Here are our fancy decorations. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8750791258/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0821 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0821" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7376/8750791258_6db148cefd.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
We actually bought all the stuff for this centerpiece (which we clearly didn't have the funds for, but we needed more decorations), then two of us tried to see if we could just buy it, and then my friend Jen came by and said "I'll buy it!" So, problem solved! However, I did absolutely love all this together!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8750791564/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0820 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0820" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8124/8750791564_1cdf6875d0.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
My extremely talented friend Alyse made all these black silhouette pictures to go on the wall. She's pretty amazing with her talent!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752498712/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0824 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0824" height="334" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7396/8752498712_3cbeff1f35.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8749667525/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0819 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0819" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7407/8749667525_f1c60bc4f5.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8749668109/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0818 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0818" height="334" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5443/8749668109_6325cfa71d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
There's Miss Maddie w/ a vulture right next to her.... eeks!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8750792104/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0817 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0817" height="334" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7330/8750792104_7d29d37a28.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8750792030/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0814 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0814" height="334" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5445/8750792030_64b2fbaea0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think I need to learn how to tie a bow right... </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752498852/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0829 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0829" height="334" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/8752498852_456e5b4256.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Above is Alex, who is adding in more babys breath to the flowers on the table</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751377429/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0826 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0826" height="334" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3771/8751377429_d9c359bbbc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and the dessert table that was full of desserts made by the girls which were auctioned off!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752498712/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0824 by arnelson328, on Flickr"></a> </div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-34764872437311110132013-05-18T21:40:00.001-05:002013-05-18T21:40:59.263-05:00It was a rough start ....to getting back into Highland Dance competitionsI wrote this article for the Scottish Society group here in our city, who wanted an article about Katie.<br />
<br />
Katie decided to get back into competitions, after being gone for FIVE years. Her last competition was when she was 10 years old. When she found out that San Antonio was going to have a competition, she was eager to jump back in the ring. She took lessons from Miss B .... (an amazing teacher, by the way!) for six weeks, and was ready for competition the first weekend in April. Here is the story -- it involves spraining a certain girl's ankles... three times.<br />
<br />
<div>
Katie became a Highland Dancer when she was six years old. She
participated in her very first competition shortly after as a Primary dancer
(the youngest group there is). There she learned how to count her pas de
basques (16 in a row) and where her feet was to go exactly. As her mother, I learned
the sword dance, and taught the steps to Katie at home, so she would learn it at
a faster pace in time for her first competition. After her very first dance
competition, Katie would go on to compete for another four years in competitions
all around the Midwest, often winning "Best Dancer" award, or "Most Promising
Pre-Premier Dancer", and even a scholarship.</div>
<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
When Katie was 10 years old, her family moved from Missouri to San
Antonio. There, she joined the San Antonio Scottish Society's Highland Dance
group. She was able to share her talents and her love for Highland Dance with
everyone. After taking a short break from competitions (OK, five years,
really!), Katie started lessons with "Miss B". In a funny
twist, "B" taught Katie's first dance teacher when she was a teenager. Katie
had taken several of Miss B's workshops when she was younger. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752532328/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0017 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0017" height="334" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3737/8752532328_c584f5f26b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie's BFF Madison holds up a sign she made for Katie</span></strong></div>
<br />
<div>
When Miss B announced a dance competition was going to come to San Antonio,
Katie decided to get back into competitions. She started her lessons again with
Miss B in February of this year, and six weeks later, she was preparing for the
San Antonio Highland Dance competition.<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751408923/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9961 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9961" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2838/8751408923_d95cda589f.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie as shown before the competition starts ... she was excited!</span></strong></div>
<br />
<div>
The big day arrived, and Katie was very prepared. Nervous, but excited!
As she stood on stage to perform the Lilt, she took one step out, and when her
foot landed, it landed at an odd angle. A gasp was heard from several
people. Immediately, all could see she had hurt her ankle. She finished her
dance, and limped over to where family & friends were sitting. Ice was applied
immediately, and her ankle was wrapped. She went on to dance the Highland
Fling, and did a beautiful job! The third dance was the sword dance. She asked
me to help her with her leaps. So we walked to the grassy section of
the grounds, and she took one giant leap to the right, and landed on the same
ankle in a bad way. She fell to the ground. I pleaded with her to
stop ... it was OK to forfeit the dance. She had done a great job and had much
to be proud of. However, Katie is a very determined girl. When she has her
mind set on something, she is going to accomplish it. She walked on her ankle a
bit more, and said "I'm fine ... let's walk to the other side and practice on
the practice stage." After realizing little dancers were playing on the dance
floor, she said "we can do it here on the grass .. it'll be fine." She took a
leap to the left, and this time when she landed her foot down, a LOUD pop was
heard,and she fell to the grass and was in dire pain. She looked up at me and cried "why?!" <br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752530182/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9975 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9975" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2871/8752530182_a4de47f01e.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie dancing the Lilt -- the very next second is when she twisted her ankle the first time</span></strong></div>
<br />
<div>
By now, I was frantic, and could barely believe Katie had
twisted both of her ankles THREE times that morning. What are the odds?! More
ice was added to the other ankle, and that ankle was wrapped. Her turn was
coming up quickly for the sword dance .. the dance that she had to perform with
leaps. After speaking to Miss B, who assured her it was OK not to do the leaps
she needed to do, she walked (limped) to the staging area. She gets on the
stage, and starts the sword dance. Next thing we see, is Katie doing her leaps
... I am holding my breath, praying that Katie will have the strength
to accomplish what her heart desires, and just to be able to get through this
dance in one piece. Tears run down my face when I realized Katie
did it .... Katie pulled through perfectly. Through all that pain. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751411051/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0022 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0022" height="334" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7288/8751411051_1240aee571.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie talking with her teacher, Miss B -- asking what to do about her Sword dance with her ankles as bad as they were. </span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Miss B gives her a hug before she goes on the stage.</span></strong></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752531962/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0023 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0023" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8256/8752531962_9b7d5e56eb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752532120/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0049 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0049" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/8752532120_a3948f7c1a.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie performing the Sword dance </span></strong></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751410757/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0099 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0099" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2853/8751410757_b776136cf8.jpg" width="356" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie performs the Seann Triubhas</span></strong></div>
<br />
<div>
Katie danced one final dance, and did a beautiful job. All Katie wanted
was a stamp. Of course, her eye was on the trophy, but at this point in the
game, she just wanted to place in something so she could get a stamp on her
dance card. To get a stamp on her card meant she was much closer to going into
the next category. </div>
<br />
Katie's group was announced for medals. Seann Triubhas... Katie placed
first. Sword Dance ... Katie placed first. Highland Fling... Katie placed
first. The Lilt.. she was disqualified because she twisted her ankle. Best
Dancer of the group? Katie! Imagine going back into serious practice in only
six weeks, and walking away with a Best Dancer trophy of the group! The joy in
Katie's face when her name was announced was worth it all. She was truly
surprised. She was surprised by the strength she had in her. She said <em>"I can
do hard things!"</em><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751410421/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0175 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0175" height="334" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/8751410421_e3ffaed5c1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The first award she wins of the day</span></strong></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751410557/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0180 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0180" height="334" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2821/8751410557_7448c5c0ce.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">After all the awards are given, the Best Dancer award is yet to be awarded. </span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie's name is being announced here -- see her smile?!</span></strong></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751410409/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0181 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0181" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8260/8751410409_f6df85a9f9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751410091/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0182 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0182" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8113/8751410091_f2ba46b435.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752531024/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0183 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0183" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8397/8752531024_8dfc7fac47.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751409759/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0185-001 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0185-001" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7361/8751409759_a32321640b.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751409911/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0186 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0186" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2879/8751409911_86c33ec6aa.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie with her dance teacher, Miss "B" after the competition</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Katie suffered a second degree sprain in her left ankle, and a first degree
sprain in her right ankle. She had to skip the Houston Games which were held three weeks later because she was not ready, but she did participate in the Dallas games (which will be told in story in a few days!). Way to go Katie!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8752530456/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0392 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0392" height="334" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3783/8752530456_587d47427e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Katie told me I had this wrong ... she twisted her right ankles twice, and her left ankle once. Her left ankle was the worst!</span></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751409321/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0289 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0289" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8125/8751409321_1ab18c5a48.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8751409413/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0397 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0397" height="334" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7398/8751409413_e9cafa1a3a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">On the way out of the Games, Katie & Maddie both spied with their little eye, my picture of Katie leaping in the air on someone's vehicle!</span></strong></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-65611016544488031572013-05-18T09:12:00.002-05:002013-05-18T09:12:37.822-05:00Back from the dead..... I'm alive!Wow... it's been TWO months since I've blogged! Not that nothing hasn't been happening around here in our lives, it has.... but because I've had literally no time to sit here and put my words down on my blog!<br />
<br />
After seeing my family members click on my blog to read my newest post, and seeing our dear Smokey on the page -- it was time to blog again. :) <br />
<br />
So.. what have we been up to?<br />
<br />
First of all, I went to a 4/10 schedule at work, and while I love having an extra day off to get my errands done so I can enjoy my Saturday with my family -- it's been at times hard! Lack of sleep, trying to shuttle the girls where they need to go (drop Katie off at seminary before work at 5:30 -- almost over!!) -- has just been overwhelming at time, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. Add in overtime that I'll be working for about a month or so -- it's only going to get harder! So, trying to figure out a way to find the time to work out (which let's face it, hasn't been happening at all since I started working last August), create fast dinners, etc. I'm just grateful that Mike has been keeping the laundry going. He's a super hero in my eyes!<br />
<br />
The girls and I went to a Bat Mitzvah last weekend. The girl was a good friend of Maddie's (she has several Jewish friends, and we live near a Jewish temple/synagogue so we have a lot of wonderful Jewish friends around us). We went for the close of the Sabbath day (I have no clue the terminology they use), and her friend read a story of Ruth in Hebrew. Very amazing! It was so interesting to see how the Jewish observe. The men and women are separated in the room. They walk in different doors. Their books they use.... we were told to go to page 602, and I go all the way to the back of the book, and see it's page 158. I KNOW it's not page 158. After realizing that the books go the opposite way we normally read. All in all, so grateful for the experience. <br />
<br />
After the service was over, we went into a huge room for a celebration. They had an amazing DJ w/ a troop of helpers -- teenagers or college kids -- to help get the kids dancing and having a blast. They passed out beads, light up necklaces, funny hats, sunglasses, leis, etc .... Katie was going to go w/ Maddie b/c I was just exhausted from setting up Mormon Prom the night before and that day -- but I decided to go as well. I'm so glad I did because all of the moms of the girls were there, and one of the mom (Kelli) and I and Katie went out on the dance floor and had such a fun time. Brought back memories of my time in Y.O.U. as a teenager dancing w/ all my friends on the dance floor. <br />
<br />
We didn't want to come home -- but finally left at 11:30. Katie was a little hyper from all the grape flavored cotton candy (which was delicious) she ate. They had the most delicious food there. Once I realized one of the foods was a BBQ beef sandwich, I was too full!<br />
<br />
One of the my friends took this picture of Katie & I while at the dance.. Katie's mouth lately is ALWAYS open like this in pictures. Must be a thing... like making that duck lips .... I'm sure a fly is going to fly in her mouth someday. One of the moms I don't really know, looked at Katie and I, and said <em>"is she your daughter?"</em> another mom laughed and said<em> "yes... can't you tell?!"</em> The first mom said<em> "I wondered b/c she has your eyes and smile!"</em> Katie & I lately have been getting more and more comments about how much she looks like me. We still don't see it much. Must be the hair. :D<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8749663975/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="photo by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="photo" height="456" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7369/8749663975_ca0d55391c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
After we got home from the Bat Mitzvah, I documented the things the girls got, and to show how wild they were... it was so fun to see Katie (Maddie wouldn't let us dance with her == apparently we're too embarrassing) -- dance. She doesn't dance a lot at her Stake dances apparently. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8750788308/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0893 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0893" height="334" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5449/8750788308_30a8c26c6a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
This picture below I labeled on my facebook page "Guess which of my kids had more fun than the other?!"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8750788268/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0894 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0894" height="334" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3699/8750788268_51199585f1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-84764044780638408652013-03-19T20:10:00.002-05:002013-03-19T20:11:34.336-05:00Goodbye Smokey Bear ...Last night the unthinkable happened. I came home from work, walked into our sunroom/dining room which was full of hot Texas heat, and spotted Smokey lying across his cage. I've caught him like that before, so I wasn't too alarmed.<br />
<br />
Usually when I call his name, he wakes up and sniffs around. This time, he didn't do anything. So I opened his cage, and put my hand on him. He almost snapped at me -- something he's NEVER done in his life. I picked him up, and noticed he couldn't move. It was like he was paralyzed, or had a stroke. I wasn't sure. <br />
<br />
I don't know if he was dehydrated (I checked his water bottle.. it was working fine) -- or the heat got to him -- or if it was just old age. He was 2 years old, after all. His poor little bottom had dried up poop, like he was severely constipated, but I was so puzzled. <br />
<br />
By now I was alarmed, and put him in some paper towels to cradle him. I gave him some water from his water bottle, which he slurped up. Pretty soon he was able to poop some more -- but his belly was getting distended. I knew then, that the end was near.<br />
<br />
I looked at Maddie, and tears were falling from her face. She was silently sobbing from behind me, as I frantically tried to coax him and sweet talk to him. When I saw her crying, I couldn't help shedding some tears as well. I finally gave Smokey to Maddie. She held him, and just cried.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8573716156/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="0318131716 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="0318131716" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8573716156_8d1da868f7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
What a wonderful little hamster we had. Katie was the one who bought him, who picked him out of the litter. He was separated from the other hamsters because he had gotten in a fight. He had wounds on his body, and Katie said "we can nurse him back" and "put neosporin on his wounds!". I was worried b/c I thought we had a feisty hamster on our hands! But, no ... we had the gentlest hamster ever. He never bit anyone. Loved to cuddle in our sweatshirts or on our blankets. Maddie was afraid to hold him for about a year, but she came to be able to hold him on her own. What a proud day that was for her!<br />
<br />
One night Smokey had an adventure. He had gotten out of his cage. Mike thought we had a mouse in the house, and for sure was going to stomp on the mouse. When we saw it was Smokey having the time of his life -- I was the one to corner him in the bathroom and save him. Whew. What an adventure! <br />
<br />
Smokey made many friends when the family went on vacation. They stayed with four families -- who all had their own stories to tell about Smokey when we picked him up.<br />
<br />
Who could forget the time we decided to paint Smokey's nails hot pink? Or even forget how much he stuffed his cheeks with food?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/5791307489/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_3886 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3886" height="427" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5030/5791307489_d9fb627408_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/5791866152/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_3892 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3892" height="427" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5270/5791866152_31014b0888_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
One time I left a shopping bag next to Smokey's cage, and by the morning, he was found with the entire shopping bag IN his cage. In fact, he lined it in his sleeping cove and slept on it. I tried to take it from him after a week, and he came running for it, and grabbed it right back!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/7746171486/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0042 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0042" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8437/7746171486_7637900e01_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<br />
Smokey loved sticking a full carrot in his mouth. We tried to get him to nibble a baby carrot once, only he stuck it all in his mouth! We didn't do that again, but managed to feed him bits and pieces of veggies.<br />
<br />
Smokey was often found sleeping in his wheel. Such an adorable sight!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/5910315704/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_5645 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5645" height="427" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6020/5910315704_7ce0c098a1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Smokey managed to drive Mike crazy.. especially at night. He was called "The Rat" by Mike, and often Mike was seen to put him in the garage in the middle of the night -- because he loved to play at night and run on his wheel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8573716110/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="0318131944 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="0318131944" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8388/8573716110_13ef316871.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After several hours of holding Smokey, cradling him, petting his soft fur ... his breathing was very shallow. He started squeaking -- trying to breathe. He was turning cold. I looked at him, and he was holding his paws as if he were praying. I had to snap one last picture. Finally a short time later I had to do the unthinkable .. suffocate him to further his death. We all sobbed as this happened, but it was finally over. The girls and I found a place in our yard to bury him. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rest in peace sweet Smokey Bear. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Your girls will miss you. </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-79180886974940030752013-03-03T15:16:00.000-06:002013-03-03T15:16:01.106-06:00Happily Ever After Girls Camp 2012I'm only ... 8 months late for this blog post... :)<br />
<br />
Although I am now serving in Young Womans, at the time of Girls Camp last summer, I was not. I just went up for the day to bring girls to camp. I had such a blast that first day, and was so excited for all these girls and the experience they were going to have!<br />
<br />
I did not come up with ANY of these ideas. I was just the photographer for the day ... but I loved all that was given to the girls, and put on display for the girls so they would have an enjoyable time.<br />
<br />
The theme for the Girls Camp was "Happily Ever After". Each ward had their take on the theme, and decorated their table. This was how our wards table looked:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525989362/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9394 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9394" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8525989362_0d510c33cf.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I loved these fake diamonds in the middle!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525988046/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9409 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9409" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8239/8525988046_d21135e07a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
When they got to the camp, each girl had this at their place waiting for them (a bag, a crown and a bandanna for their head)
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525992164/" title="IMG_9326 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9326" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8510/8525992164_4dab4168c8.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Each girl had a place to sit each day, and for their placemat, it was this</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(the opposite side was scrapbook paper). At the end of camp, each girl wrote a message on the back of the placemat for the girl. It was an amazing item to have!
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525989368/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9388 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9388" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8525989368_8c9e94048d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I absolutely love that picture of Katie!
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Their shirts for camp was this on the back. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The front basically said "Happily Ever After" Girls Camp 2012</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8524878463/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9340 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9340" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8517/8524878463_8ba4101c07.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The YW Presidency at the time worked super hard on little gifts for the girls.. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and these were the gifts for them</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525991898/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9365 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9365" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8525991898_f085a02f15.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8524877801/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9367 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9367" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8524877801_7f3229dbee.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525991442/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9369 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9369" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8231/8525991442_d094a84652.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525991164/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9370 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9370" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8525991164_6267279df0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525991164/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9370 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9370" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8525991164_6267279df0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was actually to be filled w/ candy at the table (like M&M's) each day...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
so they left it at the table</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8524877571/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9373 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9373" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8524877571_d8db5197d6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Because camp was in the beginning of July in Texas, it was boiling hot. The girls got these little fan that squirts out water (it was kind of useless since it didn't work well)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8524877035/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9374 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9374" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8524877035_c2e6803f68.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Because they went to camp over the 4th of July, they got fun things for the 4th. Including these glow in the dark necklaces to wear and these fantastic sunglasses!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525990250/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9376 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9376" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8091/8525990250_ab3d25206c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525990264/" title="IMG_9380 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9380" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8525990264_424afdeb31.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This opened to a mirror ....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8524876625/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9377 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9377" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8524876625_99a87fbc56.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a pin they could wear at church...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525990282/" title="IMG_9381 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9381" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8525990282_f2356aed9e.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525989686/" title="IMG_9382 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9382" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8090/8525989686_6c9150777f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.... and a bag they could hold all their gifts (which most ended up broken or lost)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8525989036/" title="IMG_9383 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9383" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8525989036_4fee7b04ab.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8524874599/" title="IMG_9384 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9384" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8252/8524874599_2e2ff14839.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8524875987/" title="IMG_9386 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9386" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8390/8524875987_9658e090f2.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm sure a lot of these were found at Oriental Trading, or the Dollar Store -- I know the 4th of July things were found at the $1 Target bin. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-76412711278365614172013-02-11T06:00:00.000-06:002013-02-11T06:00:07.646-06:00San Antonio Robert Burns dinner 2013Every year the last Saturday evening of the month of January, the girls are participating in the Robert Burns dinner for the Scottish Society. They had a great evening, and all did a fantastic job in their dances! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Katie warms up before going on stage</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460325192/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8530 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8530" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8107/8460325192_75102157cf.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Mom's gotta get in the pictures every once in awhile!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459222195/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8548 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8548" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8387/8459222195_bbce1a0930.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The girls with their best friends ... they started dancing a year ago with the girls</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460325270/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8555 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8555" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8460325270_7b5a94e6a3.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The entire dance group before the performance</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459222501/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8568 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8568" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8369/8459222501_151d4fdfd2.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Katie & Christine (on the far left) both realized they have the EXACT same tartan for their kilt!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460324606/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8581 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8581" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8460324606_7a25b4f741.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This dance the girls learned in just two practices. They all did amazing well for the Broadswords in such a short amount of time. They are dancing with their teacher Miss Annette and her daughter Christine (also a teacher).</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459221997/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8584 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8584" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8090/8459221997_fba7bd07f3.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460324312/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8585 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8585" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8246/8460324312_9bf321d5fb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460324428/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8586 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8586" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8376/8460324428_c83f58f18f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459221281/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8588 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8588" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8459221281_7a0042d895.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459221559/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8593 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8593" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8244/8459221559_a32252cd0c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460323750/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8595 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8595" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8460323750_d4d0d16627.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Katie & Christine both are dancing the Seann Triubhas .... after they dance this, they have literally 5-8 minutes to change into their blue dress similar to what the other dancers are wearing</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459220731/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8603 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8603" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8369/8459220731_8ae1e8739c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460323162/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8606 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8606" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8460323162_9350c1136e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Look at those leaps!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460324486/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8607 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8607" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8460324486_c1fd39343e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maddie is dancing the Lilt</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459220985/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8616 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8616" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8229/8459220985_84c007db6b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460323650/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8620 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8620" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8095/8460323650_45bd8c025d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Here all the dancers are dancing the Highland Fling</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460322916/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8640 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8640" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8460322916_8b5ae39590.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
the last picture is of the girls & one of their current (and former) dance instructors, Mary Beth ... aka "Miss B". She taught the girls' first dance instructor, Carla. Miss B traveled to Kansas City to do workshops, so the girls have trained with her before. Imagine our surprise when we found out she was moving to San Antonio. They took up lessons with her, then Katie decided she wanted to quit. She took a bit of time off, and is now back to dancing again and preparing for her first dance competition this April after being gone from the competition world in almost 5 years! Miss B is whipping her in shape! The girls LOVE Miss B!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460322790/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8646 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8646" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8513/8460322790_c726c31676.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-70048222349729574182013-02-10T06:00:00.000-06:002013-02-10T06:00:04.054-06:00Katie + the mallI'm obviously not blogging as much as I used to, so when I find pictures on our little point and shoot that I forgot we had... might as well document it especially when I love the pictures!<br />
<br />
Katie had a Young Women activity at the mall one night... and this mall is an outdoor mall. Very uber cool. It was also right before Christmas time, so the lights were out and it was just gorgeous. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460290778/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0459 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0459" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8086/8460290778_cb835d38b8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8460290826/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0461 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0461" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8460290826_4b2c3f4a0c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-89405651305206732912013-02-09T19:06:00.000-06:002013-02-09T19:06:18.636-06:00and this little piggy ..... was shot<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">**** warning **** dead hog pictures included! Enter at own risk!! *****</span></div>
<br />
Back in November Mike took the girls to the cabin for a good 5-6 days. Every night they went hunting ..... and one night they (aka ... Katie & Mike) was successful!<br />
<br />
Hogs are wild down here in Texas, and they are EVERYWHERE. They destroy so much, so typically property owners try to get an upperhand on reducing the amount of hogs that are wild. Naturally... my family members do their part ... happily!<br />
<br />
This one particular night, Katie managed to shoot a hog. This is her second hog to shoot. Notice I say the word "shoot". She doesn't kill these animals. I don't think she's ever killed an animal in her life (except for a cockroach or a spider, if you count those?). She shot this hog in the butt. THE BUTTOCKS. <br />
<br />
The hog squealed and squealed... and so naturally -- Daddy has to come to the rescue and put the poor hog out of his misery. I mean.. his butt? Poor hog!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459188393/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0445 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0445" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8252/8459188393_bf09ecdb85.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
<br />
Mike said the first thing out of Katie's mouth was "Is it bigger than Papa Rod's hog?" My dad shot a hog when he took the girls hunting back in August last year. Is this girl competitive or what? The answer was yes... the hog was bigger than Papa Rod's. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459188169/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0447 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0447" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8523/8459188169_fbff7a77ae.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459188367/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0448 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0448" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8459188367_04cd5ac3ce.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
However.... the hog was very very sick. Very diseased. The smell was so incredibly bad .... so Mike didn't bother skinning it or doing anything with it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8459188297/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0449 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0449" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8522/8459188297_62f7167c00.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-68678373895443636992013-01-26T13:39:00.000-06:002013-01-26T13:39:10.409-06:00Happy Birthday Blondie!! 15 years!!Miss Katie had her 15th birthday the other day, and she had such a great day!<br />
<br />
Her seminary teacher made a cake for her .... one of her good friends brought a cake for her to school ... and I made a Dr Pepper cake for her. <br />
<br />
It was full of text messages wishing her Happy Birthday, her Young Woman leaders coming over to "kidnap" her and take her to Orange Leaf. It was full of her birthday dinner of choice.. Bill Millers. (I still can't believe we went there instead of eating steak like she normally does!).<br />
<br />
For her birthday present, she picked out a Vera Bradley backpack... which had to be shipped to us because it was not in the stores. Her other backpack broke ... so it was time for a new backpack!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8417929076/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8480 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8480" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8514/8417929076_50fb89ed30.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8416834729/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8484 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8484" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8188/8416834729_5aa7ace267.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
She got an Oreo cake from her friend, and I made her a Dr Pepper cake (which she absolutely LOVES Dr Pepper... ), and I have to forewarn everyone that it does NOT taste anything like Dr Pepper! It is just a glorified chocolate cake!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8417928878/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8485 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8485" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8335/8417928878_6e32e8a56a.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
WHOA! 15 candles to blow out now!!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8416834029/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8492 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8492" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8087/8416834029_da7e8986a9.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Katie is thinking about what she wants to wish for..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8417928488/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8510 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8510" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8470/8417928488_cabf20995b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
She blows...</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8416834359/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8515 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8515" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8495/8416834359_18508c5c27.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
..... and she blows...</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8416833511/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8516 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8516" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8509/8416833511_bbb1d69339.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
and that sneaky daddy of hers lights more candles after she blows them all out!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8416833499/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8523 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8523" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8079/8416833499_4230e2dc41.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Ahhh! She's not done yet! He lit up more!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8416834027/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8525 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8525" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8416834027_56947abbf3.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Her poster was very cute.... in the middle is a picture of bagpipes (b/c she is a Scottish dancer)</div>
<div align="center">
and the caption reads "Katie! You put the air in our bagpipes!"</div>
<div align="center">
and her Mia Maid friends all signed it!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8417927636/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8528 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8528" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8496/8417927636_c7e3f57e40.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-59326068237978497552013-01-19T08:18:00.000-06:002013-01-19T08:18:04.927-06:00Very sad news about our cabin .... In short... we were robbed at our cabin. :(<br />
<br />
Two weeks ago, Mike went to the cabin to do more work. He arrived early early in the morning, and noticed our beautiful wrought iron was half laying down on the ground. (no pictures.. Mike lost his camera too). The fence was held together by someone else's lock (they removed our lock), and somehow... pulled one side of the fence in the direction it's not supposed to go (it only goes in one direction) so it bent/twisted the hinges on one side, and broke. We're still not certain how they did it, but we're thinking they possibly lost the key to their lock?<br />
<br />
Anyways, he drove up to the cabin, and the door was standing wide open. The robbers cut the power to the place, so everything was dark. Two puppies came out of the house when they arrived. :( It was very very cold, and one of the pups had ribs showing through its skin. They were sleeping on the bathroom rug to stay warm. Mike stated that the ice cubes were still frozen, so the robbery must have just taken place. Plus, the pups didn't leave any feces or urine spots anywhere on the carpet/wood in the cabin, so they weren't in there long either. (the puppies slept outside under the house that night, and followed Mike to our neighbors house who had food to feed them ... they stayed on this neighbors house the entire weekend after that.)<br />
<br />
In short... they took everything (our leather couch, comfy leather chair with an ottoman), all of our kitchen stuff, all of the food in the fridge (except the Coke Zero.. they didn't take that), in the freezer, and the rest of the food that was not in the fridge. Took our plates, our dishes, pans, silverware. Spices, DVD player ... everything.<br />
<br />
Took all the clothes we left there (girls jackets for hunting, Mike's hunting clothes, Mike's jeans & shirts he left there), laundry detergent. They took small tools he had there, our friends hunting gear he left there. They took our brand new Crock pot we hadn't even taken out of the package. Gone. Stolen. <br />
<br />
They took some blankets off of the bed on our loft, but thankfully, left the beds. They did leave all the appliances, so that was a blessing. We were thinking they probably would come back for the appliances. They took our brand new grill we had (it went on the picnic table outside).. GRR! Mike was given my grandpa's bow, and he left it there to use at the cabin when he went hunting w/ a bow. Gone. :(<br />
<br />
Outside the cabin, they took the riding lawnmower, all the stuff we stored in our popup camper (TV/DVD player, Bug Zapper ... I'm going to miss that like crazy b/c mosquitoes are so bad out there! and other little odds & ends Mike had out there to finish the cabin).<br />
<br />
They took the ladder that we climbed to get onto our loft. <br />
<br />
So ... we were robbed. Badly. Jerks<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em> (that's just the mild version of the name I orginally called them).</em></span><br />
<br />
They tried to take Mike's trailer. Mike realized that we were robbed at least twice. Once when they rolled the lawnmower out around the fence, and probably unloaded all the outside stuff. Then another time at least, to open the door and grab. <br />
<br />
However.. they did leave a very important piece of evidence. A little kids Little League shirt with initials in the tag. The police did snap that picture and bagged it for evidence. <br />
<br />
SO... Mike spent that weekend ensuring the house was double protected... enhancing the locks, the frames around the door, putting up plywood around the windows when we're gone, so it would make it SO much harder to get inside. He placed cameras all around the property, in hopes we'll see if anyone has been there. Someone even tried to drive through to our property from our power line -- and ran over our dead pine tree. So, we need to put in concrete pillars in that section. <em>Great.</em><br />
<br />
People suck. Then we also found out the storage unit place where we have been keeping our extras (like our four wheelers.. which we have since brought home), has been having break ins as well. Double GREAT. (at this time of writing, I'm not sure if we were broken into or not, but Mike just went up there and had to go there first to get a ladder, and he said "all is well", so I'm assuming we didn't get broken into). <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, our neighbor across the street who also beefed up his place when he heard about our robbery ... was robbed after we were. Thankfully they did not get into his place, but they did do damage, and took all his cameras that he had around his property.<br />
<br />
Again.. <strong><u>people suck</u></strong>.<br />
<br />
A week after this happened, I came to work on a Monday. Someone stole my owl picture from my wall. I had three pictures printed that I took of the owls that were outside our house in June.... one of them is gone. SERIOUSLY people?!! Argh!<br />
<br />
That's the update. Now begins the process of getting ADT, replacing all the stolen items (little by little.. have to search garage sales for stuff now) -- and mending my "I no longer trust people" feelings. Ugh. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-3254599480066463152013-01-01T06:00:00.000-06:002013-01-01T06:00:12.956-06:00Miss Katie earns her YW Medallion!Katie made a realization this summer ... that she was within reach of the end of her Personal Progress! She made a goal to finish her Personal Progress by the end of the year!<br />
<br />
The last project she had to complete was to read the Book of Mormon. She finished it Sunday morning. Talk about a close call!<br />
<br />
Last Sunday she had an interview with our Bishop, who knew of this goal of hers, but still interviewed her ... knowing she may or may not complete her goal ..... She was to give him a nod or shake her head no at church to let him know if he would proceed and give her the award or not.<br />
<br />
The medallion represents the work of 8 different values: Faith, Divine Nature, Individual Worth, Knowledge, Choice & Accountability, Good Works, Integrity & Virtue. With each value, she does 6 different assignments (like reading a few scriptures and writing her thoughts, or working on prayer morning & night for 3 weeks, etc). At the end of each value, she does a 10 hour project. This entire work took her almost 3 years to do. It differs for each girl on the length of time they work on their Personal Progress... some take 6 years, some take 4 years, etc. It is up to them, but Katie wanted to get hers done before high school took up a lot of her time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326973671/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7806 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7806" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8326973671_69a7a49544.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
The medallion necklace has the Salt Lake Temple in the background, with a beehinve at the bottom, with a ruby in the bottom center. It's very beautiful!<br />
<br />
We are so proud of Katie! Way to go!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-44931397879202872272012-12-31T06:00:00.000-06:002012-12-31T06:00:04.922-06:00My parents come to town!My parents came to town ... just in time when I got sick. I realize now that I get sick every single year at the same time. I always end up w/ a horrible cough, no energy -- and it lasts for a few weeks. <br />
<br />
So, my great plans of going to all these amazing places to show off San Antonio kind of... disappeared. They generally come during the summer, which is in the dead heat -- and no one ventures outside. Sadly, we only hit up one touristy place this trip. THE RIVERWALK!<br />
<br />
Also sadly, this is the only time I got my camera out while my parents were in town. Talk about a slacker .... most of the time we were watching movies, lounging around, while I was coughing my head off.<br />
<br />
We went to the Riverwalk right before sundown. We wanted to catch the lights as well as the sunlight so they could see the architecture from the barge (the boats that ride the river). When the barge ride was over, the line was SUPER long (like over the hills and through the woods kind of long) -- so we went at the perfect time!<br />
<br />
Sadly, I didn't take any pictures of my dad... and the one I took of Maddie was extremely blurry (she was super close to me -- and my lens requires me to be a little farther away), but know they were with us!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326975743/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7782 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7782" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8214/8326975743_ecdcb50db8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328035018/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7783 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7783" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8502/8328035018_85ab5cbb6a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328034770/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7785 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7785" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8497/8328034770_44a6424315.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326975139/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7786 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7786" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8354/8326975139_b8e507240f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328034400/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7788 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7788" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8356/8328034400_c433b2aaf6.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
This is some of the sites one would see if they ride the Riverwalk Barge...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328034060/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7789 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7789" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8495/8328034060_a6e3ea5dec.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328033642/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7790 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7790" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8213/8328033642_b993f1762b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328033358/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7791 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7791" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8501/8328033358_a13b102c91.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-66431866649569169122012-12-30T18:02:00.001-06:002012-12-30T18:02:28.078-06:00Christmas 2012Christmas this year was a lot of fun .... my parents planned to visit us over Christmas, and since they don't celebrate Christmas, we decided to celebrate it before they came. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326979225/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7737 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7737" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8501/8326979225_51349c268e.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
We started the evening out by eating at my favorite place to eat ... BJ's! We love their pizookies there, but didn't get them this time!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328038492/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7740 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7740" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8328038492_b11e27c8e3.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
When we got home, I told the girls to get into their pajamas -- and then everyone could dig into their stockings and presents.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326978785/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7748 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7748" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8353/8326978785_92365b153c.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326978565/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7749 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7749" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8497/8326978565_ff1791c39e.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
Katie's big present was cowboy boots & a cowboy hat. She decided not to have it wrapped, so she had the fewest presents to open. But, she was still thrilled with her other loot she did get!<br />
<br />
I swear.. it seems like I buy her silver hoops every year, because she manages to lose hers every year! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326978363/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7752 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7752" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8358/8326978363_f5523a8184.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326978173/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7755 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7755" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8072/8326978173_d0c5bbaf57.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
The girls bought Mike a case of Mexican Coca Cola ... which ended being flat (need to take it back!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328037446/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7757 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7757" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8076/8328037446_e548064846.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Miss Maddie is our straw girl -- so what better thing to get her than a nice straw holder?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326977717/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7760 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7760" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8082/8326977717_125a7e979f.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Katie's dream guy is Hunter Hayes..... and Maddie got her the Hunter Hayes CD ... she was excited.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328037024/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7762 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7762" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8071/8328037024_3f0ab45d6a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Maddie's big gift this year was an itouch -- and boy was she excited!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326977241/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7763 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7763" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8326977241_6e50257c0b.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326977025/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7769 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7769" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8500/8326977025_dc68e2da2a.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
This was Katie's year for music, I guess.... she also asked for the Luke Bryan CD ... which she got courtesty of Maddie!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328036328/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7771 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7771" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8354/8328036328_63700290b2.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Katie got Maddie a huge box of puzzles ... since Maddie loves puzzles!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328036090/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7773 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7773" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8354/8328036090_b68c9ed9c6.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
The girls got me these two colorful Santoku knives!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328035896/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7777 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7777" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8328035896_f029e281e2.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
... and my big present from Mike was 5 sets of Fiesta dishes!! Wahoo!! Our other dishes we've had for almost 16 years, and it was time to say goodbye to them (they're going to the cabin). It took me FOREVER to figure out what I wanted to have for my next set ... and while this wasn't on my wish list (I really wanted a Kindle Fire), I'm thoroughly thrilled with my gift! Two days later I went out and bought four more sets.... I now own almost all the colors!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8326976125/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7778 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7778" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8363/8326976125_9578cc1b43.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8328035406/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7779 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7779" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8491/8328035406_58f8c5cc43.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-25574736383101004522012-12-29T09:21:00.001-06:002012-12-29T09:21:53.358-06:00Smile! You're on Camera part 2Back in August I wrote a blog post about the different animals we see on our Game Cam at the property. Our most awesome picture was a big huge razorback, that we've nicknamed Tiny -- which has yet to be seen again since. You can click on <a href="http://twocuteblondies.blogspot.com/2012/08/smile-youre-on-camera.html" target="_blank">this link</a> and you can see the animals we've captured on camera. <br />
<br />
Since Mike installed another Game Cam camera on the same property but in a different location (he noticed a bedding ground for pigs nearby and found a trail made by the animals). Most of these pictures are from that location, but included are a few new ones in our normal location where the feeder is located!<br />
<br />
The best picture, of course... is saved for last!<br />
<br />
If you notice the date in the bottom right corner ... the year is wrong. This is the time the deer come out to graze. MOST of the time they come out at sunrise and sundown. This one came smack in the middle of the day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322248358/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WGI_0035 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="WGI_0035" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8493/8322248358_11268acecf.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Look how HUGE these hogs are! Tiny is not in this picture... but these are still big!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8321189019/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WGI_0016 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="WGI_0016" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8214/8321189019_9f4233ce6b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8321189189/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WGI_0003 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="WGI_0003" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8497/8321189189_7afba0f604.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the trail that was found .... and what caused Mike to place a camera in this location.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8321189341/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0417 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0417" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8081/8321189341_48695ed6ef.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
I believe these are fox (foxes? foxs'?) -- either way, there are two fox. Or coyotes. I can't remember what Mike said they were.... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322249058/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0405 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0405" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8360/8322249058_1de7064b33.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322249202/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0396 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0396" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8361/8322249202_b069077fc4.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Let me state for the record, I'm totally in love with this black & white little baby pig. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322249306/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0381 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0381" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8356/8322249306_e1ea1f1354.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322249426/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0380 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0380" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8080/8322249426_67900b32c8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
I spy with my little eye.....an owl!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322249538/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0339 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0339" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8502/8322249538_95a3cb80ce.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
I also spy with my little eye.... two girls walking and waiting for their dad to check the cam after hunting!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322249658/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0322 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0322" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8079/8322249658_444c08d391.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
.... same two girls riding the four wheelers along the trail<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8321190207/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0319 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0319" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8321190207_b3dce898b3.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
I've never seen a deer with one antler. Until now. The laughingstock of the tribe of deer he must be. <em>"Don't look now Larry ... but that deer only has ONE antler!"</em> Don't mind my sense of humor right now... I'm overmedicated w/ cough medicines & decongestants to stop my cough.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8321190369/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="MDGC0058 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="MDGC0058" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8357/8321190369_3bb14771a7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
..... and I said I'd save the best for last!! This gorgeous ..... prime hunk of a buck!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8322247990/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WGI_0040 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="WGI_0040" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8220/8322247990_5a9815706f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"excuse me! .... won't you please say hello for the camera?"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8321188517/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WGI_0039 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="WGI_0039" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8220/8321188517_2ee4a5b0ef.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Ahh.... gorgeous huh? Also came smack in the middle of the day as well!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-66087434261350679502012-12-16T07:28:00.000-06:002012-12-16T07:28:48.398-06:00What in the world has Amy been up to?Oh my .... it's been almost a month since I've blogged, and really, it's quite unheard of for me to not blog!! I've been quite busy, actually. <br />
<br />
Yesterday I just finished coaching my last season of volleyball for Maddie's team. While I enjoyed the run for the past 3 years, I'm ready to be done. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277799702/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7405 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7405" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8207/8277799702_afc4fd90fa.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
I was called to serve in the Young Women's organization at church in November, so I'm getting used to being around teenaged girls now instead of little kids!! I had to resnap pictures of Katie for a project the leaders are doing in YW at church, and while we didn't use these pictures, I sure do love them of Katie!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276735071/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7606 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7606" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8344/8276735071_ea08b95a92.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276735183/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7604 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7604" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8065/8276735183_6a3af444bc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
We finally have fall here in San Antonio! We don't see the leaves change colors very often (probably because we lack the type of trees that turn the beautiful reds and oranges!), but I did find some beautiful colors at my last photoshoot! I also found that our tree out front of our house turns red in the fall too! YAY! It's no secret that fall is my favorite time of year!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277817860/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7216 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7216" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8481/8277817860_b6ee8aa377.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277794632/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7458 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7458" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8069/8277794632_999b12c7ae.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Mike started tile work in our kitchen -- hasn't finished it yet. But, at least the bar section is 87% done ... he still needs to seal it up. I can't believe I didn't take a final picture. To come later!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276736677/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6881 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6881" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8201/8276736677_bfa708af50.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277794886/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6886 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6886" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8502/8277794886_41c26d2453.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276736419/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6887 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6887" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8343/8276736419_d81b99da05.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
The Young Women had their Young Women in Excellence night at church. Each girl talked about what they worked on for their projects that year. Katie & her BFF Madison danced the Highland Fling. You can see Katie's profile picture on the "flame". Her poster was also drawn by herself, and she added in words found in magazines that reflect how she sees herself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276737623/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6792-001 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6792-001" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8060/8276737623_95149d7843.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276737409/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6797 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6797" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8479/8276737409_881b78d4cd.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277795462/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6804 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6804" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8338/8277795462_fcc4b6251e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277795302/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6826 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6826" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8203/8277795302_c678e4a4d2.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276736855/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6853 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6853" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8484/8276736855_c9ac4e3bae.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
We had our traditional Sunday dinner every first Sunday of the month -- the month of December was at our friend's Katie's home -- she is an amazing baker and this is her second year of having something for the kids to decorate and take home. This year it was a stable!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277794332/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7502 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7502" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8350/8277794332_8f7d7445d1.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276735815/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7505 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7505" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8067/8276735815_2edc6c5eca.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276735639/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7508 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7508" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8501/8276735639_4f3b0d3feb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8276735489/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7514 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7514" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8222/8276735489_0042e9ab11.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8277793682/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7517 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7517" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8079/8277793682_51f81bf2dd.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-35817635156280300592012-11-19T19:44:00.000-06:002012-11-19T19:44:03.571-06:00What not to do when making yarn balls ....Today is my baby's birthday .. she's a big ol' 11 years old now! I'm on a roll in getting their room decorated before company comes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8201867212/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6879-001 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6879-001" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8204/8201867212_d3b8d37289.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
I saw this idea at a friend's house while doing their newborn shoot. She said it was so easy, and it looked so amazing! I thought "ooh! I could do this to Maddie's room!" So I scoured Pinterest, blogs and figured out what formula I should use. For example, liquid starch .. elmer's glue ... cornstarch .. and the list goes on.<br />
<br />
Here is my list of what not to do when making yarn balls.<br />
<br />
1) <strong>First of all .... don't make them</strong>. I'm not kidding. They may look incredibly easy, but they're not. Sure yarn is cheap, balloons are cheap, and so is glue. Do not be swayed! Stay away from these balls! Go buy japanese lanterns instead!<br />
<br />
2) If you decide you have to make these yarn balls, then don't use just elmer's glue & water. I tried this on my last three balls I made, and it did not work. The first three balls I made (I ran out of mixture), I used a combination of Elmer's glue, cornstarch & water. I think the ratio is like 4 oz glue, 1/2 c cornstarch and 1/4 c of water. When I realized that my yarn was not hardening up like the first batch did -- I had to run out to get even MORE glue, and did my mixture and paint it on while it was wrapped around the balloon. It did the trick, and hardened up after drying. Also note that you'll use even more glue than you think you will use. Stock up for this project.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8200775337/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6872 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6872" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8486/8200775337_4955b14e40.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
3) Two people really need to be doing this -- one to dip the yarn in the mixture and one to wrap it around the balloon. I read somewhere someone said to place vaseline around the balloon, but I didn't do this. If I did, maybe it would have prevented a lot of frustration after I popped the balloon. I'll show you why in a second.... If it doesn't prevent what I'm about to show you, then I have no clue why they put vaseline around the balloons?<br />
<br />
4) <strong>Again, don't make these yarn balls.</strong> They are a headache, I'll tell you! I'm totally doing ya a favor!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8200774995/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6875 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6875" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8479/8200774995_428f7b793a.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
5) After you pop the balloons -- they will still stick to the yarn, and there will be lots of dried mixture that stays on the yarn. <em>What a pain in the butt.</em> I gave up after a few hours of scraping this off with a skewer -- I'm hoping no one take a close look when it's in her room.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8201867540/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6877 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6877" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8347/8201867540_0e35ae7c92.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8201868146/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6873 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6873" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8201868146_2123ccb087.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
6) I used a punch balloon for my large pink balloon -- however, do not buy a punch balloon that has ink on it ... like a princess. That transferred onto my yarn. *%#)@#! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8201867792/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6876 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6876" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8480/8201867792_c16ddc7421.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
7) I bought two different types of yarn. The thicker yarn was cheaper -- and it was harder to deal with and it doesn't look as nice as the thinner yard does (the pink). So, splurge a bit more and get the thinner yarn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8200775519/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6870 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6870" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8484/8200775519_d3f073be02.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">ouch ... sorry for the noise in that picture! High ISO = noise in my pictures!</span></div>
<br />
8) When hanging the yarn balls in the ceiling over your daughter's bed, don't drop a tack on her bed. 'Nuf said. :/<br />
<br />
and finally <br />
<br />
9) Are you<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em> really sure</em></strong></span> you want to make these yarn balls??<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8200774451/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6878 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6878" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8481/8200774451_01ed29b8c1.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
My daughter is totally worth it -- but man alive I wish I did something else! (can you see the black ink in my large pink ball?!! FAIL!)
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-73389828542488396252012-11-17T17:26:00.000-06:002012-11-17T17:26:23.817-06:00The many faces of Mike... part 2Almost three years ago, I wrote a <a href="http://twocuteblondies.blogspot.com/2009/12/many-faces-of-mike.html" target="_blank">blog post</a> about how my husband Mike has many faces for me when I take pictures. <br />
<br />
When we had our family pictures done on my birthday this year by my fabulous friend Valerie -- we laughed when we saw all of Mike's expressions. Now, I'm no stranger to husbands hating picture time at my photo sessions that I take -- and while Mike didn't "hate" our photo time -- his funniest expressions came at the end of our shoot.<br />
<br />
Enjoy a few photos that show Mike at his finest .... :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8194828206/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="NelsonFamilypics1 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="NelsonFamilypics1" height="358" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8194828206_e0bc2723b7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8193736793/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Collages1 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="Collages1" height="358" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8069/8193736793_3919487f3e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8194847268/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0127 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0127" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8058/8194847268_852ac0f980.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now you have seen the bloopers ... here are the REAL gems of our shoot!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8194835132/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0126 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0126" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8338/8194835132_816bbe4fb6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8193741825/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0234 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0234" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8348/8193741825_f3ef89b3c8.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8193742127/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0273-001 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0273-001" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8197/8193742127_d45583ce6b.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8193747781/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0026 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0026" height="325" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8339/8193747781_155ceec5b8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6664875618794166251.post-59229789176502378532012-11-13T00:00:00.000-06:002012-11-13T00:00:09.581-06:00Being grateful and showing it on paperI was going through pictures in my bedside table on Friday night. Going through some of my favorite photos, favorite momentos that I saved of the girls when they were born -- their hat, their arm bracelets while in the hospital. My favorite articles I read from Dear Ann Landers when I was a teenager. My teenager photos. <br />
<br />
At this time, I had finally found the picture I had been looking for for years of my grandpa holding Katie when she was still a little wee one. His dog Buddy was looking at Katie, studying her. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8176906667/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Top-003 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="Top-003" height="351" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8066/8176906667_29851d2cc1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
I did come upon four pieces of papers. Seeing my grandpa's handwriting on them brought tears ... I miss him. His two year anniversary date of passing away on Thankgiving is coming up. <br />
<br />
I had forgotten about these papers until that night. Years ago (like 8-9 years) I had made all these papers with everyone's name on the top of their paper. Everyone in the family had to go around and write something they were grateful for or loved about that person. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8176842369/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Top by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="Top" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8203/8176842369_971656e21a.jpg" width="359" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8176842309/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Top-001 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="Top-001" height="364" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8065/8176842309_cfbc7dbb7d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/17146021@N02/8176873364/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Top-002 by arnelson328, on Flickr"><img alt="Top-002" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8059/8176873364_ab3b7dfb0b.jpg" width="326" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
All I could think was "what a great activity this was..." What a great way to share things in ways that we may not have normally said to each other. Plus here .. I have it in writing. :) (Love Miss Katie's handwriting and spelling?!)<br />
<br />
So if you need a "Grateful" project -- try this activity. <br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1