tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306237052024-03-13T06:00:50.726-07:00alan and stephour lives...one cup at a timealan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.comBlogger495125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-53893061019920030722014-04-19T09:09:00.001-07:002014-04-19T09:09:51.517-07:00Sangria<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MzXZzC9iSAY/U1KeWKpvAXI/AAAAAAAAaDE/5zouS8O33dU/s1600/Sangria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MzXZzC9iSAY/U1KeWKpvAXI/AAAAAAAAaDE/5zouS8O33dU/s1600/Sangria.jpg" height="193" width="200" /></a></div>
As soon as the temps start to rise (which happens much sooner in AZ than in most other parts of the country), I'm itching to make my very favorite Sangria recipe. <br />
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Serve it on its own or with your favorite Mexican dish, it's delicious either way. <br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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Sangria</h2>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/New-York-Bartenders-Guide/dp/1579124704" target="_blank">The New York Bartender's Guide</a> by Sally Ann Berk</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i>
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
Dry Red Wine (2 bottles)<br />
4 oz Triple Sec<br />
3 oz brandy<br />
3 oz orange juice<br />
2 oz lemon juice<br />
2 oz lime juice<br />
4 Tbsp Sugar<br />
1 cup water<br />
Lemon Slices<br />
Lime Slices<br />
Orange Slices<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
Chill all ingredients for at least one hour. Serve over ice. alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-91038416045657616062014-04-12T10:04:00.000-07:002014-04-12T10:04:08.888-07:00Cherry Almond Chicken Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTdMb8StQgo/U0lwZ1fOPHI/AAAAAAAAaAo/3OL2QFXbmi4/s1600/CherryAlmondChickenSalad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTdMb8StQgo/U0lwZ1fOPHI/AAAAAAAAaAo/3OL2QFXbmi4/s1600/CherryAlmondChickenSalad.JPG" height="320" width="304" /></a></div>
Last summer we spent a few days with our dear friends at their parent's lake home in Iowa. Not only was our time together food for my soul but my friend, <a href="http://photographybynealy.com/">Nealy</a>, made some of the most amazing food for our bellies. It never ceases to amazing me how so many of my favorite memories are made around the table. <br />
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One of the recipes she made for lunch is below. It's perfect for a spring/summer lunch or an easy light dinner option. <br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Cherry Almond Chicken Salad</span><br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
4 Chicken Breasts<br />
1 cup Rotini Pasta, cooked<br />
1 cup dried cherries<br />
1 cup whole almonds<br />
1/2 bunch green onions, finely chopped<br />
Celery, chopped (optional)<br />
Brianna's Poppyseed dressing<br />
1/3 cup mayo<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
Season chicken with salt & pepper. Bake (or grill) and dice chicken. Combine ingredients and serve over leaves of lettuce. I like to serve it with tortilla chips. <br />
<br />alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-80829678766272207862013-12-13T07:14:00.000-08:002013-12-13T08:19:21.229-08:00Christmas Soiree 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xIs6CNbS9Tk/UqqPHbpm-fI/AAAAAAAAZ6w/nhHl7XH-i40/s1600/5_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xIs6CNbS9Tk/UqqPHbpm-fI/AAAAAAAAZ6w/nhHl7XH-i40/s400/5_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1004.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
After having read the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310328179/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0310328179&linkCode=as2&tag=theflible-20">Bread and Wine</a>, my passion and perspective for my time in the kitchen and around my table has been renewed. I now appreciate, even more, the value that is found when we dedicate our time and energy to the feeding of bodies (and souls). So many of life's memories are truly made around the table.<br />
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The message of this book was brewing in the back of my mind in November when I was contacted by <a href="http://www.freshandeasy.com/">Fresh & Easy</a> and asked to host a sponsored Christmas party. I'd already been thinking about starting a tradition of doing a small intimate Christmas dinner party for friends (as our gift to them) and so this offer was truly an answer to prayer. God knew exactly what this party thrower's "wish" was this Christmas - 1 awesome party! <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8G-QU7pEXmg/UqqNoFg_TyI/AAAAAAAAZ6U/5GMwedkKYJU/s1600/37_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8G-QU7pEXmg/UqqNoFg_TyI/AAAAAAAAZ6U/5GMwedkKYJU/s640/37_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1036.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAsztPBWSWw/UqqNjd5-P1I/AAAAAAAAZ6M/kCm5Ta2APJ4/s1600/13_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAsztPBWSWw/UqqNjd5-P1I/AAAAAAAAZ6M/kCm5Ta2APJ4/s640/13_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1012.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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Now before we get into all of the (fabulous) details, it's important to note that planning this type of party is quite possibly the most amazing thing I might ever do. I live for a party. I live to plan a party. I live for the next party. I simply love parties. Correction - I LOVE parties. So hosting a party of this scale scent me to cloud nine and back again.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-znhb0rel_i0/UqqO4Ej_dNI/AAAAAAAAZ6g/3PXqtBjZEJY/s1600/F&EHoliday_Invite_frontgeneral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-znhb0rel_i0/UqqO4Ej_dNI/AAAAAAAAZ6g/3PXqtBjZEJY/s800/F&EHoliday_Invite_frontgeneral.jpg" title="Christmas Soiree Invitations" width="450" /></a></div>
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Once the date was set, I started planning. I put together a fantastic team of friends to help (delegation is key for large events like this) and we started pin, pin, pinning all of our ideas for the event. Food. Decor. Beverages. Invitations. Anything and every idea for the party was being thought of. </div>
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We arranged rentals, we created a detailed food budget, we (and by "we" I actually mean my sweet friend Jennifer) poured over a food timeline, we mapped out the backyard and started ordering all of the decor for the event - we were busy little party-planning bees for the weeks leading up to the party. </div>
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By party time, we were as ready as we were going to be. Keep in mind, we are amateur party planners and were mostly just crossing our fingers (and toes) that everything would turn out ok.</div>
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Now I think I'll just let the photos do the talking...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSMLDgYvVuc/UqsdTZVh_XI/AAAAAAAAZ80/QrgL-Rl_PfQ/s1600/36_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSMLDgYvVuc/UqsdTZVh_XI/AAAAAAAAZ80/QrgL-Rl_PfQ/s800/36_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1035.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aGqgF8jGwbY/UqsdlXfgJ_I/AAAAAAAAZ9w/lkHrmOf2jDM/s1600/98_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aGqgF8jGwbY/UqsdlXfgJ_I/AAAAAAAAZ9w/lkHrmOf2jDM/s800/98_CHRISTMAS+SOIREE+2013-1097.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Thanks to all of you who were able to join us for such a fabulous evening. </span></div>
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Thanks also to the wonderful folks at Fresh and Easy who made this event possible. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">And a <b>huge</b> thank you to the ladies who helped with all of the details for this event - to Ashley & Tim for opening up their home (and hearts), to Jennifer & Carlene for helping with all of the food prep (it was delicious), to Lexa for making the amazing cheesecake, to Lindsey for helping with decor vision and execution, to Laura for the amazing chalkboard art and lastly to Kourtney for her help with the odds and ends. </span></div>
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Happy Christmas!</h3>
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<span style="text-align: left;">All above photos are from our event photographers,<a href="http://www.sessionninephotography.com/"> Session Nine Photography</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">{To see more photos from the event, search #christmassoiree and/or #fandeholidays on Twitter & Instagram}</span></div>
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VENDOR CREDITS:</h3>
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– Food & Beverages: <a href="http://www.freshandeasy.com/"><b>Fresh and Easy Neighborhood Market</b></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.6em;">– </span>Design & Coordination: <span style="border: none; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Lindsey w/</span><strong style="border: none; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com/">Junk in the Trunk Markets</a></strong><br />
– Photography: <strong style="border: none; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://www.sessionninephotography.com/">Session Nine Photography</a></strong><br />
– Flowers: <span style="color: black;">Costco</span><a href="http://vimeo.com/djericill" style="border: none; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><br /></a>– Rentals: <strong style="border: none; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://www.a-zequipment.com/">A to Z Equipment Rentals</a></strong><br />
– Linens: <strong style="border: none; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://www.munkeboelinens.com/">Munkeboe Linens</a></strong></div>
alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-19252431456797332172013-08-16T15:08:00.003-07:002013-08-16T15:08:39.384-07:00Our Kindness Adventure {#kindnessadventure}Why hello there lil' blog! It's been too long. <br />
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If I were to tell you about the past two months (yes... it's been that long), I would tell you about how Alan and I celebrated our 30th birthdays, how I'm in LOVE with our newly painted beverage cart, how we dedicated Audrey at our church and Nora stole the show with her River Dancing moves, how much I love my <a href="http://www.shopbetterlifebags.com/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=60&product_id=275">Better Life Laptop Bag</a> and how Alan is the best daddy in the whole wide world. <br />
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I would also tell you about Nora's Mani, Pedis and Sweets 4th Birthday party and about how we celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary in June. I would even tell you about how much I'm obsessed with the book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bread-Wine-Letter-Around-Recipes/dp/0310328179">Bread and Wine</a> (this book speaks to my soul...no joke) and how I found a <a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2012/11/12/mini-bbq-cheddar-meatloaves/">meatloaf recipe</a> that I actually like.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y71-CLzToFU/Ug6U241PqDI/AAAAAAAAZ4o/6bY3oThsfzI/s1600/Diptic-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="560" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y71-CLzToFU/Ug6U241PqDI/AAAAAAAAZ4o/6bY3oThsfzI/s800/Diptic-1.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
I'd also tell you about how part of the <a href="http://www.citymomsblog.com/">City Moms Blog Network</a> team was interviewed for Chris Wiegands documentary, <a href="http://www.thewiegands.com/2013/05/big-news-american-blogger-movie.html">American Blogger</a> (woot woot!) and how I went to Chicago for BlogHer '13 with <a href="http://www.iowacitymomsblog.com/">Sara</a> and <a href="http://www.dallasmomsblog.org/">Krystal</a>. And I'd for sure tell you about how much fun we had with our family and friends in Iowa. We'd reminisce about all of the time we spent outdoors (b/c it wasn't wicked hot like it is here in AZ) and about how wonderful it was to be able to actually hug our family members and dear friends in person.<br />
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Ah.....it really has been a wonderful summer so far!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BK9s7Mgzytg/Ug6U1WOFAsI/AAAAAAAAZ4Y/4GJ3oGZoDTo/s1600/Diptic-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="560" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BK9s7Mgzytg/Ug6U1WOFAsI/AAAAAAAAZ4Y/4GJ3oGZoDTo/s800/Diptic-2.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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However, instead of spending the entire blog post talking about what we've been up to lately, I want to end this post by encouraging you with a little God story today. </div>
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Our Kindness Adventure</span></h3>
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This morning I was spending some time with God and came across this thought..."Ordinary is often the disguise of the divine...Having your spiritual radar up in consistent anticipation of His presence - even in the midst of the joyful chaos and regular rhythms of your every day life - is paramount to hearing God." (my current study, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gideon-Your-weakness-strength-Member/dp/1415875553">Gideon :: by Priscilla Shirer</a>).</div>
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We had no plans this morning (mostly due to the fact that we seem to keep passing the dreaded case of pink eye back and forth) and I sensed a serious case of "ME-itis" around our home. I quickly realized this attitude was more than likely becoming a trend due to my lack of looking to other people's needs above my own. The demands of <a href="http://www.citymomsblog.com/">my business</a> have been very intense these past few months and I know that my family has carried a lot of emotional stress due to my recent time commitments.</div>
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Because "ME-itis" is not something we want to encourage in our home, I knew I wanted to teach the girls a practical lesson in kindness (aka considering other people's needs above your own). So I decided it was time for our 1st ever "Kindness Adventure." </div>
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We quickly put together a few hand written cards and gifts and off we went on our very first kindness adventure. </div>
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Our first stop - Starbucks. Ah... just thinking about bringing someone an unplanned Starbucks drink makes me smile! We picked up the favorite drinks of some of our friends and headed out with drinks , cake pops and a "Welcome Home" gift in hand. </div>
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We made three total stops. At each kindness stop we were greeted with warm embraces and huge smiles as we told our friends that we were on a kindness adventure - a mission to bring kindness to some of the people we love the most. The girls even got a kindness gift from mommy (see above pic of Elsie) because we can be kind to our family too. <br />
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It really wasn't anything terribly special to be honest. It took us all of one hour to make the rounds (and $20ish) but my prayer, as always, is that the truth of the quote "More is caught than taught" rings true for our girls today. I pray that my girls will grow to value the fruit of the spirit of kindness and that one day, they too will be taking their children on kindness adventures. <br />
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I truly believe that our intentionality in teaching this next generation the importance of kindness will influence generations to come. <br />
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But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.<br /> Galatians 5:22-23</blockquote>
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Want to participate in you own Kindness Adventure?! Plan your own Kindness Adventure and post your photos on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #kindnessadventure. Let's together let kindness and love win. </h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">#kindnessadventure</span></h3>
<br />alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-85266950258280335732013-06-13T17:36:00.004-07:002013-06-13T17:36:58.833-07:00my top 5 deal websites | Scottsdale Moms Blog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm sharing my very favorite deal websites over on Scottsdale Moms Blog today. <br />
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You gotta check it out. <br />
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It will save your life. Ok... maybe not your life. But it will help save you some serious cash. <br />
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Read my post <a href="http://www.scottsdalemomsblog.com/2013/06/13/my-top-5-deal-websites/">HERE</a> and be sure to comment with your favorites. alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-78471016339714473762013-05-29T07:38:00.000-07:002013-05-29T07:38:42.782-07:00Elsie is TWO! (and a Birthday Park Playdate)<br />
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Elsie Grace,</div>
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Why hello there sweet little girl?! I truly cannot believe that it was TWO YEARS ago that you came into this world and forever changed our lives. </div>
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Elsie, you truly have been adding sweetness to our days since you're birth. Our prayer is that you continue to do this very thing every day of your life. {Because everyone could use a little more sweetness in their life?!}</div>
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This past year has been full of kisses, dirty diapers, smiles, cheese (yes... cheese is your favorite food), dress up, tantrums and tears, memories, play dates, time impressing your future boyfriend/hubby, Jackson, wars and hugs with your sister, dance parties and most of all, incredible amounts of JOY and GRACE.</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">We absolutely love watching you grow and standing on the sidelines as God works His way in you. </span><span style="text-align: left;">Your spirit is oh so very sweet and we're convinced that you'll be the one daughter who won't ever move too far away from her mommy. :) (Can we guarantee that now?!)</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">For your birthday this year, we spent your actual birthday celebrating with our little family. You opened your gifts (with lots of help from your big sister) and indulged in a red velvet cupcake. The following day we spent the morning celebrating with friends at a nearby park where we played and enjoyed a little birthday cake (all while wearing a pink tutu, because every birthday girl gets to wear a tutu to the park on her special day!). </span><br />
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All in all, it was a great celebration of your life!<br />
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Elsie - our prayer this year is that you would "grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men" (Luke 2:52). <br />
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Just as we know that God delights in you, we too delight in you day in and day out.<br />
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xoxo,<br />
mommy and daddyalan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-39869574834572953662013-05-12T15:51:00.001-07:002013-05-12T18:15:10.915-07:00The Best Kind of Full<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These days whenever I go out with all three girls it seems almost a foregone conclusion that someone will tell me <i>"It looks like you've got your hands full?!"</i> In the grocery store. While shopping at Target. During playtime at the park. And even when walking into our church each Sunday. I'm not over exaggerating when I say that this phrase is uttered at least once a day to our little family. </div>
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Now thankfully I'm not one to take offense when someone says this to me. I really don't think the people who utter these words to us have ill-intent. They are just stating a fact. We do have our hands full. </div>
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<b>The best kind of full. </b></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of little hands wanting to be held as we cross the street because they know they are safest when they are close to mommy and daddy. </i></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of groceries waiting to be put into our fridge and thankfully this marks the goodness of God's provision for our family. </i></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of three little laps wanting to be read to because we value the art of literature and are blessed to be able to read. </i></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of Apple products because honestly, how would we get through the day without the genius work of Steve Jobs helping teach our littles their letters via the iPad or taking photos with our iPhones.</i></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of a cup of coffee (and sometimes a glass of wine) as it really is one of the secrets to surviving these years with little ones under our wings. </i></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of little hands joining us as we pray to our Heavenly Father each night before bedtime. </i></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of little piggie toes wanting to be painted the exact same color as mommy's. </i></div>
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<i>Our hands are full of "water wrinkles" (we say our hands look like prunes) because bath time serves two purposes - it is an opportunity to clean our little babes and it provides an hour of entertainment during some of the hardest minutes of the day. </i><br />
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<i>Our hands are full of countless toys needing to be picked up after the kids have gone down for the night and rather than begrudge the task of putting them away, we choose to thank God that we're fortunate to have children to play with them. </i><br />
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<i>And last (but most importantly), our hands are full of God's Word, because there really is nothing else we can turn to that can guide us in this parenting journey the way that God offers to teach through the Bible.</i><br />
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<b>It's true. Our hands (and hearts) are very full! </b><br />
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<b>The Best Kind of Full. </b><br />
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~Happy Mother's Day~</h3>
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alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-5232240147188309592013-04-24T08:10:00.000-07:002013-04-24T14:08:21.222-07:00Tips for Surviving Life with 3 Kids, 3 and under<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I get asked a lot how the transition to 3 children (3 and under) has been for our family. And my honest answer is - we're surviving!<br />
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Thankfully with each passing day it gets easier and easier. Not easy... but easier. <br />
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Some days are great. Some days are not so great. But at the end of the day, when all of the girls are sleeping, Alan and I take a collective sigh of relief in the fact that we've accomplished our main daily objective - everyone survived. <br />
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Over the past 7 weeks, since Audrey's birth, I've found a few tips to be especially helpful for our family and think they could help you too.<br />
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Whether you are adding your 3rd baby (as we did) to your family, or even if you're adding baby 1, 2 or 4+, these tips are for any family to consider when adding a new little one to their hearts and homes. <br />
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Tips for Surviving Life with New Baby</h3>
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<li><b>Meals from Friends and Family. </b>I'm honestly not sure what we would have done had we not had such wonderful friends and family who brought us meals those first few weeks. It was such a huge blessing to not have to even think about getting the groceries necessary to make food for our family, let alone find time to actually make the food. Don't pass up this incredible blessing, not only for your family, but for the people who are able to serve and bless you! If you have a friend who would be willing to arrange meals for you, I'd highly suggest using the website <a href="http://www.foodtidings.com/">Food Tidings</a> to organize and manage the sign up. </li>
<li><b>Amazon Prime. </b>I'm a bit embarrassed that I'm just now jumping on the Amazon Prime bandwagon. After lots of FB encouragement (via my Mommy Questions of the Night), we decided to finally subscribe to Amazon Prime. We share the account with 4 other people and so our total is $16/year. You can't beat that. For free 2-day shipping it honestly is the best purchase we've made in the past 2 months. So far I've ordered bottles (which I would have normally had to take all 3 kids to Target to buy), books and makeup. Let's just say - I LOVE AMAZON PRIME!</li>
<li><b>Paper Plates. </b>I'm so thankful for two sweet friends who strongly encouraged me to start using paper plates post-Audrey. I hadn't even considered it and so when one of them dropped by a large stack of paper plates the following day, I figured I'd give it a try. And I'm so glad I did! Such a huge time saver. Since then I've heard that once you have 3+ kids you enter into the "Paper Plate Season." </li>
<li><b>Fresh Flowers. </b>I don't know what it is, but whenever I have fresh flowers in our home, it helps make each day even more brighter. And for those of you who are wondering - yes - I do buy myself flowers. You can't always wait on the hubby to bring them home :)<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8i2crlrglbg/UXfoPBemW7I/AAAAAAAAZuw/U93zvpxPmU4/s1600/photo-17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8i2crlrglbg/UXfoPBemW7I/AAAAAAAAZuw/U93zvpxPmU4/s400/photo-17.JPG" width="400" /></a></li>
<li><b>Hire help when/if needed. </b> 4 of my sweet friends gifted us a house cleaner after Audrey was born and it was the best thing in the world! I've also arranged to have a sitter come every other Friday to watch the girls so I can run errands. These two things combined have taken such a great weight off of my shoulders. I/We can't do it all - so hire help when/if needed ladies!</li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Good-Nite-Lite-900-381/dp/B002N4IN0U">Good Nite Lite.</a> </b>Right about the time Audrey was born, both of my girls started waking up at 6 am (rather than the usual 7 am). This was just not going to work for me. Thankfully I remember a post on Scottsdale Moms Blog : <a href="http://www.scottsdalemomsblog.com/2011/10/17/the-early-bird-stays-in-his-room-a-few-thoughts-on-early-risers/">The Early Bird Stays in His Room</a>, where Sarah suggested the Good Nite Lite to help encourage kids to stay in their bed until a pre-set time. Now the Good Nite Lite is only sold via Amazon and is often out of stock (boo), so it wasn't the easiest product to get our hands on. But thankfully I spent a couple weeks watching <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Good-Nite-Lite/136979405424?fref=ts">their FB Page</a> for the announcement of more product in stock and we snatched up two! At $44/each, they are the most expensive night lights we will ever purchase, but in my opinion, it is well worth it! <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fnaFNeAMTbw/UXfy4K0gbXI/AAAAAAAAZvA/KlN_JhuHvns/s1600/photo-19.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fnaFNeAMTbw/UXfy4K0gbXI/AAAAAAAAZvA/KlN_JhuHvns/s400/photo-19.JPG" width="400" /></a></li>
<li><b>Wake Up before your kids. </b>I know I talk about this a lot, but I really do believe that waking up before your children gives you, as the mom, a HUGE advantage. I find that if my kids are my alarm clock, I feel like I just can't catch up throughout the day. Now yes, this does mean that for some of you, your alarm clock will go off at 5:30 (like mine); however, the opportunity to get a shower, have breakfast and get things ready for the day are well worth the early wake up. I especially value having 10-15 "me minutes" outside where I can read my bible and devotional with a cup of coffee. </li>
<li><b>Friendship and Family Help. </b>I don't know how I would have gotten through the past 2 months without some incredible family/friends who were always willing to encourage me via text, drop by with a cup of coffee, love on me via gifts (which is my primarily love language) and simply be available. These relationships have truly made the transition so much easier. </li>
<li><b>Plan Ahead. </b>Before Audrey's arrival I took some time to consider what was on our schedule for the month following her birth. So for us, because she was born on Feb 27th, I looked at our March calendar and bought all March cards/birthday/anniversary gifts ahead of time. I didn't want to have to be running around with the girls to pick up these things after Audrey's birth. This has been a huge time and sanity saver for me. </li>
<li><b>Grace, Grace and more Grace. </b>And lastly, but most importantly, be prepared to give yourself (and the people around you) bucket loads of grace. It is always a transition when you bring a new baby home so make sure to lower your expectations and be willing to extend grace to everyone in your home. </li>
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alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-44029749119870593522013-04-20T22:04:00.000-07:002013-04-21T08:27:58.242-07:00An Audrey Update | 7 weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I think it's about time for an Audrey update. What do you think?! </div>
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<li>Audrey Mae is our sweet little "angel baby" (so far at least). </li>
<li>One Month Stats : 8 lb and 13 ounces. </li>
<li>She spends her waking time smiling at her mommy and paying close attention to her sisters who love to give her all kinds of snuggles. </li>
<li>Audrey's cry is a bit ridiculous. Some babies are born with a good set of lungs, where Audrey's cry almost makes us chuckle. We can already tell that Ms. Audrey may be a little soft spoken. Only time will tell though...</li>
<li>She's super temperature sensitive. A room can be 80 degrees but if she's remotely within the air circulation of the ceiling fan her little lips will be quivering. So as a result she spends a lot of her days in footie PJs to stay nice and warm. :) </li>
<li>Audrey's been in her crib since 4 weeks and loves being swaddled in the Miracle Blanket. </li>
<li>The girls are adjusting as well as you can expect two toddlers to adjust to another new little one taking more of their mommy's attention. Nora specifically loves being mommy's helper in the car and makes sure Audrey has her paci in at all times. The girl will spend upwards of 5-10 minutes just working to get her to take the paci. When I would have thrown in the towel long ago, I can hear Nora in her sweet little voice saying "Here you go Aud. You want your paci? You'll like your paci."</li>
<li>Elsie on the other hand is a little varied in her love of Audrey. One moment she'll be giving her all sorts of kisses and the next minute she'll be so very sad/mad that her mommy can't pick her up b/c baby sister is in her arms. </li>
<li>Interested in how we chose the name Audrey? We'll save that for another post. Stay tuned...</li>
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And lastly, just for fun, here is a comparison pic of Audrey and Elsie both at one month. What do you think? Do they look alike? </div>
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<br />alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-69134860502300656622013-04-02T11:24:00.001-07:002013-04-02T11:24:27.068-07:00In Our Home :: March Edition<br />
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Woo-hoo - we made it through March!! </div>
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As anyone who has ever had a newborn can attest - that first month is hard stuff, right?!!! And in our case that first month with baby #3 is especially hard! </div>
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As a new month starts, we are celebrating that we made it through the month of March alive (albeit largely bc of the help from family and friends). </div>
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Here's a quick recap::</div>
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1) Mop and Papa Triggs came into town the Sunday after Audrey was born. And we couldn't have been more excited to have them! The girls loved getting all of the extra attention and we loved having the extra help around the house. Ok - we maybe loved the extra attention too ;) Papa stayed for a week and Mop for over two weeks. I'm pretty sure we may not have survived the month without them. Thanks mom and dad! </div>
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2) Audrey's future BFF was born just 10 days after her. Here they are meeting for the first time. Brighton's parents, Laura and Phil, are some of our very favorite people in the whole wide world. Brighton and Audrey are destined to share secrets about their crazy families for many years to come! I'm sure of it!</div>
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3) & 4) To help celebrate Audrey's birth, some of my dear friends threw Audrey a Sip & See. Everything about this party was perfect. From the Audrey Hepburn (part of the reason why we named Audrey her name) themed decorations to all of my favorite appetizers... it truly was such a wonderful way to celebrate Ms. Audrey. Thanks again Laurie, Carlene, Jess, Rebecca and Jennifer! xoxo</div>
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Each one of these pictures illustrates what our days look like. We spend lots of time snuggling, kissing Audrey and playing outdoors. </div>
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Some of my family was in town for spring break last week and the girls were lucky to spend one morning at the zoo with Aunt Jane, Uncle Mike and Cousins Mel and Matt. They LOVED it!</div>
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Our sweet little Audrey turned 1 month on the 27th of March! We celebrated with lots of snuggles :) She weighed in at 8 lb 13 oz and 21 inches in length. She's growing great and is healthy so we couldn't be more thankful. </div>
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So many of you have asked how these two are adjusting and the answer is... well... it depends on the day :) </div>
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Both of the girls just adore Audrey and are constantly wanting to hold her hand, read to her, give her kisses and help with getting her paci/blanket/burp cloth/diaper. However, as we expected, they have also had days where the new changes, our divided attention namely, is just plain hard. </div>
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But thankfully they are cute, right?! It makes even the hard(er) days sweet. </div>
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Here the girls are on Easter Sunday. Alan and I caught a nasty case of the flu the 3 days leading up to Easter and so our Easter plans changed in an attempt to contain our germs as much as possible. </div>
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We spent the day celebrating the Resurrection of Christ with just our little family. And because cooking anything in the kitchen was just not going to happen, our Easter breakfast was sponsored by Krispy Kreme (thank you lordy for drive-thru donut places just a mile away!). </div>
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Audrey's first Easter. </div>
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And that's it! A wonderful (but hard and exhausting) month! </div>
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Here's to one month down and many more to go!! </div>
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xoxo - us </div>
<br />alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-1074819649753091002013-03-05T19:51:00.000-08:002013-03-05T19:51:27.908-08:00Audrey's Birth Story<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Announcing the birth of our sweet baby girl, </span></div>
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Audrey Mae Flies</div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">February 27th, 2013</span></div>
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7 lb 5.5 ounces | 19.5 inches</div>
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There is something so special about each baby's birth story. I love that although all three of our birth stories are very similar, each is still a miracle and is unique in and of itself. </div>
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:: Audrey's Birth Story ::</h3>
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For about a week leading up to Audrey's birth I was convinced that she was going to come two weeks early (38 weeks). Maybe I was more hopeful than convinced but let's just say I was ready. I'd completed everything on my to-do list and literally had spent the nights leading up to her delivery sitting on the couch complaining to Alan about how I had nothing to do. (Relax much?!).</div>
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Last Tuesday I had my regularly scheduled OB appointment where Dr. Deka checked the baby's progress and said I was 3 cm dilated and 70% effaced. (Insert happy dance!) She was able to strip my membranes and we were hopeful that would encourage labor along. I went home after my appointment anxious for contractions to get started. </div>
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I went to bed that evening at 8:30 a little discouraged that nothing was happening (in my opinion) and hopeful that I would be awoken by contractions in the middle of the night. </div>
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Which is exactly what happened. <br />
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At 10 pm I woke up after a fairly strong contraction. After 15 minutes of consistent contractions, I decided to download a Contraction Timer app (thank you Steve Jobs) and start timing. Much to my surprise the contractions were ranging anywhere from 3-5 minutes a part right from the beginning. We decided to call our friends, Phil and Laura, who were on call to come and watch the girls when we went to the hospital, and told them that they better come over as soon as possible. </div>
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Before Phil and Laura arrived I was sure to go into both Nora and Elsie's rooms and give some extra hugs and kisses knowing that after Audrey's birth, our family would never again be the same. Things would change for the better of course, but they'd change nonetheless. I wanted to be sure to soak in the last few moments as a family of four. </div>
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Around 11:30 pm we were off to Scottsdale Shea Hospital excited to meet our sweet Audrey. By midnight we were checked-in and found to still only be 3 cm dilated (what?!) and told to walk the halls for an hour to help labor along. (Sidenote: For those who are familiar with either of our birth stories, you may recall that this is EXACTLY what happened in both of my other labors.)</div>
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Thankfully after an hour of walking the halls, I had progressed to 4 cm and was officially admitted and given an epidural (Praise the good Lordy!). </div>
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The next couple hours were a bit of a blur as the nurses worked to find the right dose of pain meds that I needed (the initial dose wasn't relieving any of the pain) and monitor baby Audrey. Because my contractions were so close together, the baby was in a bit of distress until they could figure out the right dose of meds for my epidural. </div>
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By the time we had everything stabilized, the nurses checked on my progress and I was 10 cm dilated and ready to push. Dr. Deka was called and upon her arrival we were ready to meet baby girl. </div>
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After a few pushes, Audrey was here... 3:55 am...and we were in love with all 7 lb 5.5 ounces of her. </div>
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Audrey captured our hearts from the moment we laid eyes on her. She is the perfect addition to our family and the girls just adore her. </div>
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For those who aren't on Instagram, here are some pictures capturing our time at the hospital. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-BPKKOugQ8/UTa6R4WQelI/AAAAAAAAZsI/X9Yv-WcJYz8/s1600/Diptic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-BPKKOugQ8/UTa6R4WQelI/AAAAAAAAZsI/X9Yv-WcJYz8/s800/Diptic.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
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1) This belly pic was taken the morning before Audrey's birthday while at the park with the girls. </div>
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2) Yes... I did wear my Uggs and awesomely cute hospital gown while walking the halls. Don't hate! </div>
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3) Sweet baby Audrey</div>
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4) Mommy and baby snuggles</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kybURak2h_4/UTa6S-x8EVI/AAAAAAAAZsQ/W7PjfyACCP0/s1600/Diptic+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kybURak2h_4/UTa6S-x8EVI/AAAAAAAAZsQ/W7PjfyACCP0/s800/Diptic+copy.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
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1) My push present courtesy of the best hubby in the whole world</div>
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2) Audrey getting her hearing checked out</div>
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3) Audrey snuggled up to the teddy bear the girls brought to the hospital for her. </div>
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4) A little something sweet to say thank you to all of our hospital visitors. </div>
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And then finally, here are some pictures we snapped of when the girls met Audrey for the first time. </div>
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If you're interested in reading our other two birth stories, feel free to keep reading. <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2011/05/our-birth-story-elsie.html">Elsie's Birth Story</a> or <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2009/07/our-birth-story.html">Nora's Birth Story</a>. </div>
<br />alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-13110438224684488202013-02-12T15:15:00.000-08:002013-02-12T15:15:03.929-08:00Mommy Time Management Tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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First, let's get one thing straight. Please know that by writing this post I am in no means saying that I'm a time-management expert. <i>Not. In. The. Slightest.</i> I still have so much to learn when it comes to managing my time. (Don't we all?!) <br />
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However, I've recently been asked by a number of people if I'd be willing to share some of my time management tips. <br />
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So in typical blogger fashion, I figured I'd write a post about it. Because who doesn't love a good time management blog post (wink, wink)!<br />
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Mommy Time Management Tips </h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">1) Set aside weekly planning time. </span> </h2>
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Some of you may remember when I blogged about my slight obsession with my <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2012/02/mommy-planning-mornings.html">Mommy Planning Mornings</a>. I'm happy to say that my love for this weekly "date" hasn't diminished in the slightest. If anything, my fondness for my Saturday morning date with the Starbucks Baristas down the street has only grown. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">{If you're interested in learning more, be sure to head over to my </span><a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2012/02/mommy-planning-mornings.html" style="font-size: small;">Mommy Planning Mornings</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> post to get a feel for what that time looks like}</span></div>
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Overall the goal in having set-aside weekly planning time is so that you feel more in-control than out-of-control when it comes to the next week's schedule. Let's be honest, I have 2...almost 3...children that continually make me feel out-of-control. So I figure I better try to minimize the stress by managing what I can control (which in this case is our schedules...to some degree) as strategically as possible. </div>
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This time is going to look different for everyone. Whether it's Saturday mornings at Starbucks (like me) or it's one night a week after the kids go to bed, the idea is the same. <b>Plan time to plan your time. </b></div>
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And all of you are collectively saying "DUH!" Right? Keeping a calendar seems to be one of the first time-management tips that most people suggest. But how many of you actually do it well?! </div>
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For me, the value of staying on top of my calendar is one of the most important things that I do when it comes to managing my time. <br />
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Specifically I use two main calendars (and believe it or not, neither are electronic calendars...yet) for planning our personal calendars. First, a monthly calendar that hangs in our kitchen and gives an overall snap shot of our days. And secondly, a detailed daily calendar. {And for those who are interested - my detailed daily calendar of choice is the <a href="http://www.momagenda.com/">momAgenda planner</a>}<br /><br />(For those of you who are working, I use Google Calendar for most of my business needs and love it! I know a number of families who use it to help manage their personal calendars as well. We just haven't gotten to that point yet)</div>
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Here are a few of my specific calendar tips: </div>
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<li>Be sure to write down birthdays and important dates on your calendar. Specifically when a friend/family member has a baby, I jot down their birthday on my calendar right when I get their birth announcement text. That way I won't forget when his/her 1st Birthday comes around.</li>
<li>Make time to transfer all important dates to the next year's calendar. (This is obviously where a reoccurring event in an ecalendar would be helpful but I just haven't gotten around to doing that yet)</li>
<li>Plan one week ahead. Always be looking to next week and planning what birthday gifts you need to buy and what events you need to be preparing for now. It drastically reduces my stress level when I'm not running around last minute to prepare for upcoming events. </li>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">3) Make Lists. </span></h2>
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I keep a to-do list like it's my job. Keep one updated to-do list with you at all times. Personally mine sits right next to my computer as I feel like that's where most of my tasks are accomplished anyway. For you, yours might be on your fridge or in your purse. Just put it somewhere where it's visible and refer to it throughout each day.</div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">4) Minimize Distractions. </span></h2>
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This is one of the hardest things for me to do when it comes to time-management. </div>
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This looks different for everyone, but here are a few examples just to get your mind going: </div>
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Example 1 : When you sit down to your computer to work on some homework or get to the bottom of your inbox, I strongly suggest not opening Facebook. (Gasp... I know!) I've found that by simply not opening Facebook, I save a ridiculous amount of time by strategically minimize the distraction that is causes. </div>
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Example 2: Leave your phone in another room while you're trying to complete a task that needs your undivided attention. I don't know about you, but my phone is one of the biggest distractions when it comes to productivity.</div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">5) Prioritize</span></h2>
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I can't emphasize enough how important it is to think through what is the most important thing to accomplish each minute/hour/day/week. </div>
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When I was working full-time at Family Matters I spent a few minutes at the end of each day making a list of 2-3 things that I needed to accomplish as soon as I got into the office the next day. I'd write those items on a post-it note and leave it right next to my computer. That way it would be the first thing I'd see each morning when I got into the office.<br />
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I think this practice would be an excellent idea to take up even as a SAHM. </div>
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There are just so many distractions in our days (sick kids, tantrums, food needing to be made, etc) but if we choose 2-3 simple things that we'd like to accomplish each day, it seems a lot more manageable. </div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">6) Ask for help (when needed). </span></h2>
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Ladies - it is not a bad thing to ask for help when we need it! It may be humbling but God isn't asking us to be super moms. </div>
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Here are a few examples of what help might look like in your life ::</div>
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<ul>
<li>Hire a daytime sitter every once in awhile to help with the kids so you can run errands or just simply work on a few of your to-do items. </li>
<li>Hire a house cleaner (if you are financially able to do so)</li>
<li>Ask your hubby to pick up take-out on his way home. I'm pretty sure there isn't a "I made the most homemade dinners" award in heaven. </li>
<li>Drink that extra cup of coffee at 3 pm. Some days just require it. </li>
<li>If you own your own business, consider hiring contractors to help run your business. One of the best things I've done this past year was to expand the <a href="http://citymomsblog.com/welcome-to-city-moms-blog/">City Moms Blog Network</a> by adding a handful of amazing ladies to our team. </li>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">7) Give yourself some grace girlfriend. </span></h2>
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One of the biggest challenges in being a mom is that there is always just so much to do. Whether you work full-time, work part-time or stay at home, our responsibilities are endless. However, we must understand that the God we serve is a God of great grace. There will be plenty of times that we would get an "F" for time-management (if God was a teacher), but thanks be to God that we can start a fresh every new day in the power of His amazing grace. </div>
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(By the way - this also means to give grace to your mommy friends too - we really are all in this together!)</div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">8) Keep the first things, first. </span></h2>
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This is such an easy principle to lose sight of when raising young children. I have to continually remind myself that above being a business owner, volunteer, house cleaner, food preparer, friend, designer - I am a wife and a mommy. And those two things should always come first. Even being managing my time. </div>
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And that's all I have ladies! I hope this helps! </div>
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<i>What am I missing? What do you do to manage your time wisely? Please comment below with your tips and tricks!</i></h4>
alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-70705777774291841632013-01-02T17:32:00.003-08:002013-01-02T17:35:16.318-08:0031 Days of Prayer for Your ChildrenWill you join me in making a New Year's Resolution that really counts?<br />
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I've been working with Family Matters to launch a New Year's Challenge and I'm thrilled to be able to share it with you. It's called 31 Days of Prayer for Your Children. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lR7xYvbeC2Y/UOTfI0SdveI/AAAAAAAAZoc/Cb_4w6mMqVY/s1600/31Days_Of_Prayer_Logo_GIRL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lR7xYvbeC2Y/UOTfI0SdveI/AAAAAAAAZoc/Cb_4w6mMqVY/s800/31Days_Of_Prayer_Logo_GIRL.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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Join thousands of other moms and dads (including us) and start 2013 off right by intentionally praying for your children throughout the month of January.<br />
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Hop on over to the <a href="http://familymatters.net/blog/2012/12/31/31-days-of-prayer-for-your-children-starts-tomorrow/">Family Matters Blog</a> to find out how you too can participate! <br />
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(pst: there's even a <a href="http://familymatters.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/31_Days_of_Prayer_Calendar_Girl1.jpg">printable calendar option</a> to make it super easy for all of the participants!)<br />
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~ Happy 2013 ~</h3>
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alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-10206616887064397782012-12-23T18:12:00.003-08:002012-12-23T18:13:03.031-08:00♥ merry christmas ♥<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vd2ienp9Khk/UNe5TJIGmFI/AAAAAAAAZn8/9LgT50x-Kuo/s1600/Flies+Christmas+Card+2012+-+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vd2ienp9Khk/UNe5TJIGmFI/AAAAAAAAZn8/9LgT50x-Kuo/s800/Flies+Christmas+Card+2012+-+front.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oWRhKmtxRuM/UNe5Rx5kPVI/AAAAAAAAZn0/snWC9hEJpkg/s800/Flies+Christmas+Card+2012+-+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oWRhKmtxRuM/UNe5Rx5kPVI/AAAAAAAAZn0/snWC9hEJpkg/s800/Flies+Christmas+Card+2012+-+back.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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Family Photo :: <a href="http://sessionninephotography.com/">Session Nine Photography</a></div>
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Photo Collage :: Thank you Instagram!</div>
alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-75569778720407696822012-12-08T08:17:00.000-08:002012-12-08T08:17:55.101-08:00In Our Home :: Thanksgiving & Early Dec<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thanks to the gentle nudge of a <a href="http://wulfekuhles.blogspot.com/">blog reading friend</a> I was encouraged to update our little blog space. I mean, one post a month just isn't working with some of our readers I guess?! ;)</div>
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I apologize to all of you avid Flies Blend blog readers who anxiously await new blog posts (all 5 of you, right?!). <br /><br />Without further ado, here is the newest addition in the "In Our Home" blog series. </div>
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Thanksgiving</h3>
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1) Alan's mom, Ardyce, spent Thanksgiving week in AZ. We started the week off with a trip to the SeaLife Aquarium. Both Nora and Elsie love this little place. It's certainly no Monterrey Bay Aquarium but it's a nice little morning activity.<br />
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2) As you can see by this pic, the girls LOVED having Nana in town! <br />
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3) I humbled myself this year and purchased the pre-made Fresh and Easy Thanksgiving meal. It was only going to be the 5 of us (3 adults, 2 kids) and so I thought this would be more favorable than spending the entire day in the kitchen slaving over each dish. Now some of you may think this is genius but in all honesty, I love to host, entertain and cook, so the thought of not making each dish from scratch made my little heart squirm. However, now looking back, I'm totally not ashamed to admit that it ended up being the best decision! Thanksgiving day was so relaxing and the food was so super yummy! <br />
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4) The girls had a blast doing our <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2012/11/diy-thanksgiving-tree.html">Thankful Tree</a> this November. If you didn't get a chance to read that post, be sure to do so! It's totally a family tradition I'd strongly suggest doing next year. Such an easy and practical way to be reminded of all of the things we all have to be thankful for. So pin the post and remember to come back to it early November!<br />
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Our Christmas Tree & Advent Calendar</h3>
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1) & 2) We may be one of the few AZ people who get a real Christmas tree, but we love it! There's just nothing better than the fresh smell of a Christmas tree in December. Now keeping it alive until Dec 25th is a little bit of an ordeal. We'll see how our green thumbs do with this year's tree. Last year I was pretty certain that come Dec 25th our tree was a massive fire hazard. (eek!)<br />
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3) Does anyone else do the Pickle Ornament (a German tradition)?! We love it... especially b/c I love giving gifts (my primary love language, as noted in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Love-Languages-Secret-Lasts/dp/0802473156/ref=pd_sim_b_4">The Five Love Languages</a> is Giving/Receiving Gifts). There are lots of ways to do it but the basics of the tradition are that we hide the pickle ornament on the tree and whatever child finds the ornament first gets the first gift of the Christmas season. This was the first year that Nora actually understood the tradition and she was super excited about her Dora the Explorer play tent (which happens to have already broken... oh kids!)<br />
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4) I was super stoaked to put up our <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2011/11/diy-advent-calendar.html">DIY Advent Calendar</a> this year. If you missed those directions be sure to click here for the free printables!<br />
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Gingerbread House Party</h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X7qzq_mtWfg/UMNfo88QGNI/AAAAAAAAZnE/XawInCIlmB0/s1600/gingerbread+house+party.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X7qzq_mtWfg/UMNfo88QGNI/AAAAAAAAZnE/XawInCIlmB0/s800/gingerbread+house+party.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />All three girls were thrilled with all of the sugary sweet goodness that a friend planned for them this past Friday at their very first Gingerbread House Decorating Party! <br /><br />I mean who wouldn't be excited about gumdrops, skittles, sprinkles, Twizzlers and everything else that makes a Gingerbread house so amazingly wonderful?!<br /><br />***************<br />We have more family coming in this week and will have much more to report as we prepare to celebrate Christ's birth at the end of the month! <br /><br />Merry Christmas Season!!! Eat your tummies silly! alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-82454597583769708142012-11-15T21:31:00.000-08:002012-11-15T21:31:21.099-08:00DIY Thanksgiving Tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EqbzyWQAuno/UKXJeK637PI/AAAAAAAAZYk/LXBxVEYDAKA/s1600/thanksgiving+tree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EqbzyWQAuno/UKXJeK637PI/AAAAAAAAZYk/LXBxVEYDAKA/s320/thanksgiving+tree.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Please tell me I'm not the only one that is still STUNNED that Thanksgiving is less than a week away?! <br />
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Somehow our calendars jumped from June 1st to November 15th in two seconds flat (well, at least it feels like they did). <br />
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Regardless of what speed the calendar seems to be moving, Thanksgiving is next week and so our hearts turn once again to the giver of all of life's great gifts - God Almighty. <br />
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This Thanksgiving I wanted to be intentional about spending daily family time reflecting on all of the many good gifts God has given us. <br />
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In order to make this as visual as possible (we have a 3 year old, remember?!), we decided to make a Thanksgiving Tree. <br />
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I'd seen a number of Thanksgiving Trees on Pinterest and knew it was something I wanted to do one day when my kids were old enough to understand the idea of being thankful for things (big and/or small).<br />
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Specifically this year I bought a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/roommates-tree-branches-wall-decals/-/A-14005475?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=Google_PLA_df&LNM=%7C14005475&CPNG=Home+Decor&kpid=14005475&ci_gpa=pla&ci_sku=14005475">tree wall decal</a> (Target) and made our leaves with a variety of pieces of fall colored card stock. Each night after Alan returns home from work, we all sit down and talk about what we're thankful for that day. The only rule is there are no rules. Our thanksgiving leaves have ranged from the seemly insignificant (iPhone, coffee) to the very significant (family, friends, Jesus). <br />
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It's been so much fun for us! And what's been the most fun is that we have been completely FLOORED each day when our sweet Nora takes 10 seconds to ponder what she's thankful for and always seems to come up with something so very heartfelt that it makes your heart melt in the process. (Nora's leaves to date read: family, friends, neighbors, the park and swings)<br />
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I'd totally encourage you to start the family tradition of doing a Thanksgiving Tree this year too! <br />
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Happy Thanksgiving!alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-76491238410759692922012-11-05T12:59:00.001-08:002012-11-05T13:36:06.165-08:00Steph's Pick : Graco SnugRide Click Connect 40<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6hHumjLB0Fc/UJgndoYHcLI/AAAAAAAAZFg/q9NlTMn4uL0/s1600/graco+car+seat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6hHumjLB0Fc/UJgndoYHcLI/AAAAAAAAZFg/q9NlTMn4uL0/s320/graco+car+seat.JPG" width="236" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">A couple of weeks back I was invited to attend an event, sponsored by </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">Graco and hosted by Kelly L {</span><a href="http://everydaychildhood.com/" style="line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Everyday Childhood</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">}</span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">, where 15 local </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">bloggers</span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;"> were given the opportunity to learn about their newest car seat, the </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://bit.ly/T1cjWg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Graco SnugRide® Click Connect™ 40. </a></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now I'll be honest, I totally went into this thinking "<i>What more is there to know about car seats?!</i>" </span><span style="font-size: small;">Well ladies, I was wrong! <br /><br />Even with </span></span>having two small children and <span style="font-family: inherit;">having read </span><a href="http://www.scottsdalemomsblog.com/2012/06/27/have-you-heard-new-arizona-state-car-seat-law-starts-august-2nd/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Abbi's post on the New Car Seat Law</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I still had a lot to learn!</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><br />
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As many of you probably know, the American Academy of Pediatrics recently made the recommendation to keep all children in rear-facing car seats until the age of 2. In response to this recommendation, Graco set out to make a new product so parents can keep infants rear facing longer while still keeping them comfortable. Their results were<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> the </span><a href="http://bit.ly/T1cjWg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Graco SnugRide® Click Connect™ 40</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ua2askuUZf8/UJgnbC9vCfI/AAAAAAAAZFY/HaNNl71UmLk/s1600/carseat.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ua2askuUZf8/UJgnbC9vCfI/AAAAAAAAZFY/HaNNl71UmLk/s400/carseat.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Here's a few things I love the most about the </span><a href="http://bit.ly/T1cjWg" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Graco SnugRide® Click Connect™ 40</a></span></span></div>
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<ul><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">
<li><span style="line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Simply Safe Adjust harness systems allows parents to adjust their baby's height as their baby grows, all without having to rethread the harness. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">8 recline positions to give your child more legroom as they grow.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Slide up kick plate/foot rest to protect the back of your seat from dirty little feet.</span></li>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">I encourage you to read more about this product and watch the informational videos provided on the gracosafety.com website. And please consider this car seat for your little ones! </span><span style="line-height: 22px;">Available in two fabric choices, the seat retails for $219.99 and is available at <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=13291821" target="_blank">Babies R Us</a>.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><i style="font-weight: normal;">*Disclosure: </i></span></h4>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;">The</span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://bit.ly/T1cjWg" style="color: #e12c61; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none;">Graco SnugRide® Click Connect™ 40</a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;">– the first and only newborn to two-year infant car seat that actually grows with your baby from four pounds all the way up to 40 pounds. The car seat is designed for a parent on the go. The infant car seat can be easily removed from the base and used as a carrier when the infant is small, providing portability and convenience so you can easily move your infant in and out of the car without disturbing them.</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;">The American Academy of Pediatrics recently made the recommendation to keep all children in rear-facing car seats until the age of 2. Graco set out to make this product so parents can keep infants rear facing longer while still keeping them comfortable.</span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"> </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Graco. The opinions and text are all mine.</i></span></div>
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</span>alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-76051213817149729552012-11-03T14:58:00.000-07:002012-11-03T15:01:01.070-07:00{giveaway} :: zpizza gift card<div style="background-color: white; color: #4c4c4c; line-height: 20.833332061767578px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHMMSI6c5-E/UJWOoAnDK9I/AAAAAAAAZE4/Yy4Rfmq_Bu0/s1600/zpizza+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHMMSI6c5-E/UJWOoAnDK9I/AAAAAAAAZE4/Yy4Rfmq_Bu0/s800/zpizza+2.JPG" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; line-height: 20.833332061767578px;">I love me some {good} pizza! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I wish I could blame my love for pizza on this sweet little girl growing in my tummy but this isn't an "only when I'm pregnant" love. Sadly, it's been around a lot longer. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Therefore, you can imagine my excitement when we were given the opportunity to review a pizza at <a href="http://www.zpizza.com/" target="_blank">zpizza</a> for all of you, our readers! Eek... I. Was. STOAKED!<br /><br />Just last night Alan and I placed a carry out order for a large Thai Chicken Pizza (Ingredients: peanut sauce, mozzarella, antibiotic-free chicken, red onions, cilantro, carrots, fresh bean sprouts and Serrano chiles). And it certainly did not disappoint! Holy Moly was it heavenly! </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">But here's where it gets fun! <a href="http://www.zpizza.com/" target="_blank">zpizza </a>is giving away a $10 gift card for one lucky The Flies Blend reader!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">With zpizza locations in AZ, CA, CO, MN, NC, NY, TX and many more states, surely there are plenty of readers out there who should be registering for their chance to win! (<a href="http://www.zpizza.com/locations" target="_blank">See locations HERE</a>). </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Here's what you need to do to enter for your chance to win...</span></span></span></div>
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<b style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><u style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">WIN IT</u> ::</b></h2>
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<span style="line-height: 20.833332061767578px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">All you have to do to enter is simply leave a comment. Winner will be randomly drawn and announced next Friday. </span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 20.833332061767578px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="line-height: 20.833332061767578px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Good luck!</i></span></span></span></div>
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alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-24412538102540408652012-10-15T13:27:00.001-07:002012-10-15T13:27:37.189-07:00In Our Home :: Fall...kindof<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello Fall... {kindof}. </div>
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We're still seeing temps in the 90s every day but are anxiously awaiting highs in the 80s and 70s (hopefully soon). Rather than mourn AZs lack of fall weather, we're making the most of it and spending loads of time outside... in our swim suites! ;) No... really! </div>
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Regardless of the temps... my calendar says it's fall so here is our "fall" family update. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zbQ6qKm6mIk/UHxpd1oe72I/AAAAAAAAY5U/7XwtXmdQoXc/s1600/baby+3+pregnancy.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zbQ6qKm6mIk/UHxpd1oe72I/AAAAAAAAY5U/7XwtXmdQoXc/s800/baby+3+pregnancy.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
1) Baby Girl #3 (yes.. in case you missed it... <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2012/09/baby-3-gender-reveal.html" target="_blank">baby 3 is a GIRL</a>!) at 17 weeks.<br />
2) Honeycrisp Apples.... one of my very favorite snacks this time of year. Simply delicious.<br />
3) and 4) Baby Flies 3 at weeks 18 and 19. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-42p0eP-Hi6g/UHxpepK357I/AAAAAAAAY5c/6HAlS72YAJA/s1600/girls+-+fall.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-42p0eP-Hi6g/UHxpepK357I/AAAAAAAAY5c/6HAlS72YAJA/s800/girls+-+fall.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
1) I'm officially obsessed with this chalkboard that my friend made me! She is one of the most creative people I know. In case you don't believe me, just sure check out her Etsy Shop : <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/gatheringwishes" target="_blank">Gathering Wishes Studio</a>.<br />
2) Our first experience with finger paints. Too. Much. Fun.<br />
3) Breakfast outside. Amazing!<br />
4) We're finally back at the zoo! With the temps below 100, we've decided to add the zoo back into our monthly play date rotation. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VHbgzcot8Ts/UHxpgEa-LcI/AAAAAAAAY5k/Bj2ovuGCGFs/s1600/girls+pumpkins.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VHbgzcot8Ts/UHxpgEa-LcI/AAAAAAAAY5k/Bj2ovuGCGFs/s800/girls+pumpkins.JPG" width="500" /></a></div>
It may not seem totally like fall around here (hence the <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2012/10/ode-to-fall.html" target="_blank">Ode to Fall post</a>), but we're pretending like it is with some fall decor and the must have kids-by-the-pumpkin(s) pics :)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5JdCwoFOcc/UHxp89Bv7ZI/AAAAAAAAY5s/T9pdDYFqFgQ/s1600/fair.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5JdCwoFOcc/UHxp89Bv7ZI/AAAAAAAAY5s/T9pdDYFqFgQ/s800/fair.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
After living in AZ for nearly 8 years, we thought it was time we visited the AZ State Fair. Now this statement alone needs a little clarification. Here's why it's taken this long to attend -<br />
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1) We were afraid it would just be a massive disappointment as it doesn't even come close to what is considered the greatest state fair in all of the country - the Iowa State Fair (no joke.. it's in the 1000 places to see before you die book).<br />
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2) Pre-kids, the fair seemed to be dirty, creepy and full of fried foods. Oh.. and HOT. Didn't sound worth it. <br />
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Well - we decided to go against our instincts and check out the fair. Why? Well - mostly b/c Nora has been talking about going to the fair and riding a Ferris wheel for 3 months straight. How could we possibly deprive the girls of their chance to go to their first fair, right?!<br />
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After seeing Nora's response to telling her we were going to the fair, we knew we'd made the right choice! If you didn't see that video on FB, be sure to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10100864961442300" target="_blank">watch it here</a>.<br />
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Thankfully the fair exceeded all of our expectations. Nora got to ride the Ferris wheel and go down the big slide with her daddy. We all enjoyed some fried food (a corn dog and fried snickers) and some yummy fresh squeezed lemonade. And everyone was in great spirits (minus the last 15 minute meltdowns) for virtually the entire time. <br />
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I'll be writing more about our fair experience and bringing children to the AZ State Fair on Scottsdale Moms Blog shortly so be sure to stay tuned.<br />
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***************<br />
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And that's about it! Until next time....alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-63479347189894730612012-10-03T15:25:00.002-07:002012-10-03T15:25:14.603-07:00Ode to FallOk .... here is some cold, hard, honest truth peeps - I miss fall! <br />
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So badly. So so so so, so so so badly.<br /><br />After living in AZ nearly 8 years, this year it has finally caught up with me and I just need a little blogging meltdown minute to lament my sadness about AZ being a 2 season state (Seasons: HOT and cooler).<br />
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Hope that's ok b/c here I go...<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oi5y7BbHP_I/UGy3ziGdIUI/AAAAAAAAY48/_9MJVkGSWPQ/s1600/i+miss+fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="560" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oi5y7BbHP_I/UGy3ziGdIUI/AAAAAAAAY48/_9MJVkGSWPQ/s800/i+miss+fall.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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I miss the clothes of fall (yes, I realize I'll be wearing those very clothes during our AZ winter...but not right now... I'm still rocking shorts and tank tops every day), boots, changing leaves, HOT Starbucks drinks (yep... haven't ordered one of those yet), fresh apple cider from the orchard, college football games and tailgating, apple orchards, corn mazes, wearing sweatshirts in September, jumping in piles of leaves, etc. <br />
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Honestly the list could go on and on. <br />
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Now I fully realize that our "fall" comes right at the time when most of the country is moving into winter. And boy am I looking forward to that day!<br />
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Until then I'll just continue to search "Fall" on Pinterest and spend my nap time hours dreaming of the beautiful smells, tastes and cooler temps.<br />
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Now back to nearly 100 temps, an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte and playing in the backyard in our swim suites.... I guess that isn't so bad!<br />
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{This post was written as an emotional response to seeing <a href="http://eukenlifeasweknowit.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-orchard.html" target="_blank">this post</a> from my friend Katie and <a href="http://wulfekuhles.blogspot.com/2012/09/friends-and-fall-fun.html" target="_blank">this post </a>from my friend Allie (miss you girls!).}<br />
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<br />alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-59943120611463731242012-09-14T15:23:00.000-07:002012-09-14T15:24:07.272-07:00City Moms Blog Network Informational VideoOh poor poor blog (and blog readers).<br />
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I know... you've been a bit neglected the past few months. Between <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2012/08/2-3-five.html" target="_blank">pregnancy</a>, 2 toddlers, life, family, business growth and loads of laundry I just can't seem to find the time for you. (tear)<br />
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But have no fear... I've still been busy.<br />
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The business I co-founded last year with <a href="http://joycherrick.com/" target="_blank">Joy C</a>, <a href="http://citymomsblog.com/" target="_blank">City Moms Blog Network</a>, is growing a ton!!In an effort to get the word out about this amazing opportunity for mommy bloggers, I've been working (with my friend, editor and producer, <a href="http://ourdreamforeclosure.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Michelle F</a>) on a City Moms Blog Network Informational Video. <br />
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And I'm pleased to tell you that's it FINISHED!! Totally ready for you to view. <br />
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Lucky You! <br />
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For your weekend viewing pleasure I present....the City Moms Blog Informational Video (hehe)...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cwVupZvVqZI" width="560"></iframe><br />
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If you, or anyone you know, is interested in learning more about joining our network and starting your own sister site, please click <a href="http://citymomsblog.com/start-a-sister-site/" target="_blank">HERE</a> to learn more.alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-63607742213802168122012-09-09T21:26:00.000-07:002012-09-09T21:26:37.112-07:00Baby #3 Gender Reveal...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhiImRjmLt4/UE1mHHwuOOI/AAAAAAAAYwQ/Uw-SueqAfYs/s1600/DSC_3389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhiImRjmLt4/UE1mHHwuOOI/AAAAAAAAYwQ/Uw-SueqAfYs/s800/DSC_3389.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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Who's excited about finding out the gender of Baby #3???<br />
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Me, Me, MEEEEEEEE!!!! <br />
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Well luckily today was the day for us to reveal the baby's gender to our family and friends! We (as in Alan and I) found out the gender earlier in the week (thanks to a new blood test offered in my OBs office called the <a href="http://www.sequenomcmm.com/Home/Patients/Fetal-RHD-Genotyping" target="_blank">Sequenom Fetal RHD Genotyping test</a>) and have been keeping it a secret from everyone...until today! Thanks to the test we were able to find out the baby's blood type and gender in a simple blood test that can be administered as early as 9 weeks. (I took it at my 12 week appointment)<br />
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Oh how I wish I was someone who could wait to find out the gender until the baby's actual birth. But alas, I'm not. <br />
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Which brings us to today (and the reason for this post).<br />
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In planning for this party, we couldn't forget to include our family and friends who live across the country. To make them feel included, we asked for everyone to submit a photo of themselves holding/wearing something blue or pink that designates their guess for the gender of this sweet lil' thing. Here's a peak at their submissions.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WwD_BleqMPk/UE1nUJjDfSI/AAAAAAAAYwY/KeWF_nQPd5c/s1600/family+collage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WwD_BleqMPk/UE1nUJjDfSI/AAAAAAAAYwY/KeWF_nQPd5c/s800/family+collage.JPG" width="450" /></a></div>
Now for today, we decided to host a small party for our community group.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S-Y2xKrVEUM/UE1qVvd4LlI/AAAAAAAAYxA/mUiY0-v0d64/s1600/party+pics.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S-Y2xKrVEUM/UE1qVvd4LlI/AAAAAAAAYxA/mUiY0-v0d64/s800/party+pics.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
Upon arrival, our guests were asked to cast their votes for Team Pink or Team Blue by selecting blue or pink sunglasses, the corresponding Jones Soda color and taking a picture to document their vote.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xYn-lUQ5Nww/UE1k4Qwp4tI/AAAAAAAAYv4/tKT96kHeidk/s1600/DSC_3394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xYn-lUQ5Nww/UE1k4Qwp4tI/AAAAAAAAYv4/tKT96kHeidk/s800/DSC_3394.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LAQ3IYK0X3A/UE1k87dPMfI/AAAAAAAAYwA/KjhLHOy-IZo/s1600/DSC_3395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LAQ3IYK0X3A/UE1k87dPMfI/AAAAAAAAYwA/KjhLHOy-IZo/s800/DSC_3395.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B7P0KoaARmc/UE1lCcWeDOI/AAAAAAAAYwI/COIKmqXsCkU/s1600/DSC_3399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B7P0KoaARmc/UE1lCcWeDOI/AAAAAAAAYwI/COIKmqXsCkU/s800/DSC_3399.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-76ZHXhnpXEQ/UE1oddzDfNI/AAAAAAAAYwg/W9dNGG3Sczc/s1600/DSC_3382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-76ZHXhnpXEQ/UE1oddzDfNI/AAAAAAAAYwg/W9dNGG3Sczc/s800/DSC_3382.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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Let's just say Team Blue was the "winner" if going by votes alone. </div>
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After all of the votes were accounted for, it was time for fun in the pool, followed by some yummy pizza. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJ5B3ugt7Dc/UE1ofc2t-6I/AAAAAAAAYwo/F4pkZ4ItzUw/s1600/DSC_3401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJ5B3ugt7Dc/UE1ofc2t-6I/AAAAAAAAYwo/F4pkZ4ItzUw/s800/DSC_3401.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And finally it was time to make the big announcement (and eat cake)! I mean... who wouldn't be stoaked about eating<u> this </u>cake? <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Rfoz-OMJrY/UE1pILacKkI/AAAAAAAAYw4/b18XV20r4O4/s1600/DSC_3392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Rfoz-OMJrY/UE1pILacKkI/AAAAAAAAYw4/b18XV20r4O4/s800/DSC_3392.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
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Didn't my friend, Lexa, do a fabulous job with the cake?!! She says making cakes is "just a hobby." (Let's just say I'd love to have THAT hobby).
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And now for the big reveal...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="420" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/g7VnQvfE3xE" width="560"></iframe><br />
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It's a....<br />
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GIRL!!!!!!!</h2>
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We couldn't be more thrilled!
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Here's to more PINK!!!! </div>
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xoxo</div>
alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-46181531496518319412012-08-29T13:00:00.000-07:002012-08-29T13:00:04.575-07:002 + 3 = FIVE!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-56yAipZN_4g/UD5IctnKezI/AAAAAAAAYoQ/eBblXG3UFq0/s1600/Baby+3+Announcement++-+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-56yAipZN_4g/UD5IctnKezI/AAAAAAAAYoQ/eBblXG3UFq0/s800/Baby+3+Announcement++-+3.jpg" width="560" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63ekXkeTf3Q/UD5IfAznOMI/AAAAAAAAYoY/aI3jgnEh2Yk/s1600/Baby+3+Announcement+-+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63ekXkeTf3Q/UD5IfAznOMI/AAAAAAAAYoY/aI3jgnEh2Yk/s800/Baby+3+Announcement+-+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yes... you read that right.</div>
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We're pleased to announce that we're expecting Baby #3 in March!</div>
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We're thrilled, shocked, excited, nervous, so happy and so so very humbled.</div>
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Will post more about this pregnancy, baby and our thoughts on becoming a family of FIVE soon!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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<br />alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-61309502738463595762012-08-14T15:19:00.001-07:002012-08-14T15:19:09.501-07:00in our home | Iowa & BlogHer in NYC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On Friday night we returned to AZ from a 12 day long adventure in Iowa (and in my case, Iowa and NYC) where we visited friends and family and escaped this wicked hot heat. </div>
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Unfortunately Alan wasn't able to join us this time, so the girls and I flew out on our own. Yes. You read that right. I flew with the girls<u> by myself</u>. Even after "successfully" (aka: none of us died) completing two flights by myself with the two girls, I still wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Unless absolutely necessary of course. </div>
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Thankfully we made it all in one piece and we had lots of people that were thankful we did! </div>
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Here's a little picture recap of our time away...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Lkg941mfU4/UCrDYYgFzeI/AAAAAAAAYjc/4oG97m7h_eM/s1600/Friends+and+Family.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Lkg941mfU4/UCrDYYgFzeI/AAAAAAAAYjc/4oG97m7h_eM/s800/Friends+and+Family.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
1) Nora making brownies with GG Mary in her new apron (made by GG herself). <br />
2) Nora playing with homemade play dough with Great Aunt Debbie.<br />
3) & 4) I was lucky enough to see my sweet high school friend, <a href="http://aereasland.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Liz</a> and her two boys, Easton and Titus, before they move overseas this coming weekend. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G3WqWWOw-O8/UCrDalXLsbI/AAAAAAAAYjs/68dnkhwpu-M/s1600/Iowa+Collage.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G3WqWWOw-O8/UCrDalXLsbI/AAAAAAAAYjs/68dnkhwpu-M/s800/Iowa+Collage.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
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1) My beautiful hometown, Mt. Vernon, Iowa. As I grow older, my appreciation of the beauty of this small town only grows greater and greater. </div>
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2) There's no denying it, Nora LOVES carousels. Honestly, if she could ride a carousel each and every day, she'd have such a happy little heart. It must be the combination of quick movements, lots of pretty colors and fun animals. Thankfully this time I was able to "con" my dad into taking Nora on the carousel. Let's just say carousels are just not very pleasing to this mom's stomach. </div>
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3) & 4) Nora and Elsie just loved my parent's dog, Carly. Carly proved to be the best playmate, toy and friend to the girls while we were away. If dogs weren't a decent amount of extra work, I'd sign us up for a dog today. (Alan maybe not... but the three ladies in this house, hands down yes)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OEz_kuEKFFs/UCrDZ4-MtuI/AAAAAAAAYjk/G6kTuR3gTOc/s1600/ISU+Girls.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OEz_kuEKFFs/UCrDZ4-MtuI/AAAAAAAAYjk/G6kTuR3gTOc/s800/ISU+Girls.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
Before flying to NYC for my first ever BlogHer Conference, I was able to spend the night at one of my dear college friend's homes. <a href="http://eukenlifeasweknowit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Katie</a> and I were joined by <a href="http://wulfekuhles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Allie</a>, another friend that I met from Iowa State. Between the three of us, we've shared so many memories and I truly consider these two women sisters in the faith. We've walked arm-in-arm through some of the hardest times and some of the best of times. What a sweet treat it was to see them both during my trip to Iowa.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D-Tz3xxEpHo/UCrDbmiA39I/AAAAAAAAYj8/HOEu3opNvT4/s1600/NYC+1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D-Tz3xxEpHo/UCrDbmiA39I/AAAAAAAAYj8/HOEu3opNvT4/s800/NYC+1.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And then I was off to the Big Apple to represent the quickly growing network of local moms blogs, the<a href="http://citymomsblog.com/" target="_blank"> City Moms Blog Network</a>. </div>
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For those of you who don't know, my friend, <a href="http://joycherrick.com/" target="_blank">Joy</a>, and I started <a href="http://www.citymomsblog.com/" target="_blank">City Moms Blog Network</a> a year ago, in an attempt to encourage and equip moms all across the country to start their own local moms blogs in their cities. We started with just <a href="http://www.scottsdalemomsblog.com/" target="_blank">Scottsdale Moms Blog</a>. Then added <a href="http://www.dallasmomsblog.org/" target="_blank">Dallas Moms Blog</a>, <a href="http://www.peachstatemomsblog.com/" target="_blank">Peach State Moms Blog</a>, <a href="http://www.quadcitymomsblog.com/" target="_blank">Quad City Moms Blog</a> and <a href="http://www.austinmomsblog.com/" target="_blank">Austin Moms Blog</a>. And within a year the network has 16 sister sites and growing. (Be sure to check out all of <a href="http://citymomsblog.com/our-sister-sites/" target="_blank">our sister sites</a> and see if we have one in your area. And if not... I'd love to help you <a href="http://citymomsblog.com/start-a-sister-site/" target="_blank">start your own</a>)<br /><br />It really is a huge honor and privilege to "work" with these ladies as they influence their communities. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyHelhRATBM/UCrDcAJZj3I/AAAAAAAAYkE/uGCo1lvm0GA/s1600/NYC+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyHelhRATBM/UCrDcAJZj3I/AAAAAAAAYkE/uGCo1lvm0GA/s800/NYC+2.jpeg" width="500" /></a>
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1) & 2) What some of you may not know is that I traveled to the city BY MYSELF! Eek. It still sounds scary after doing it. And I wasn't so much scared for my life but just scared that I didn't know a single soul (except through Twitter). Out of all 5,000 attendees at BlogHer, I was alone (kindof). <br /><br />Thankfully I passed the time trying to figure out how to make a conference Bowflex lanyard look cute. (Hehe... that's not the only thing I did of course... but these pictures needed some sort of caption)</div>
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3) My roommate, who I met via Twitter, <a href="http://brittneysorrdinarylife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Brittany</a>, proved to be a great blessing. Here we are in the <a href="https://outmywindow.com/#/" target="_blank">Out My Window</a> suite. </div>
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4) One of the fun things I was able to do while in NYC was support a Phoenix based non-profit, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lostangelsfoundationofhope" target="_blank">Lost Angels Foundation of Hope</a> and help the founder, Kelly, get the word out about the lip gloss,<a href="http://litenglossy.com/" target="_blank"> Lite n Glossy</a>, that she created to help raise awareness (and funds) for the Lost Angels Foundation of Hope and help raise awareness of the epidemic of child sex trafficking. </div>
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LOVE this lip gloss. (Plus it has a pretty cool side mirror and LED light built into it). </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyHelhRATBM/UCrDcAJZj3I/AAAAAAAAYkE/uGCo1lvm0GA/s1600/NYC+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyHelhRATBM/UCrDcAJZj3I/AAAAAAAAYkE/uGCo1lvm0GA/s1600/NYC+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyHelhRATBM/UCrDcAJZj3I/AAAAAAAAYkE/uGCo1lvm0GA/s1600/NYC+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOaTGCvtXl8/UCrDbFvdinI/AAAAAAAAYj0/jGdL8W73KWU/s1600/Lake+Collage.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOaTGCvtXl8/UCrDbFvdinI/AAAAAAAAYj0/jGdL8W73KWU/s800/Lake+Collage.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
My parents were sweet enough to take the three of us out on the boat on a couple of occasions. Nora just loved it. Elsie... not so much. Could our girls be any different? <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zS5qBTnv0fE/UCrDcnnURrI/AAAAAAAAYkM/ir5vL3D7I5Y/s1600/Outside+Collage.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zS5qBTnv0fE/UCrDcnnURrI/AAAAAAAAYkM/ir5vL3D7I5Y/s800/Outside+Collage.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
But above all, I think the one thing that the girls (and I) loved the most about being in Iowa was being with their Mop and Papa outside. The temperatures were AMAZING. We'd spend hours upon hours running barefoot in the grass, picking vegetables from the garden, playing in the sprinkler and laughing throughout a game of hide-and-go-seek. <br /><br />Let's just say we're dreaming of the days that the temps drop below 100 here in AZ (which probably won't be until the end of September at the earliest). <br /><br />All in all, the trip was filled with so many special memories. We're certainly happy to be home and re-united with Alan, but we're missing all of the fun (and cooler weather) that we enjoyed in Iowa. <br /><br />Till next time!alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30623705.post-12716459922273619632012-07-27T07:29:00.000-07:002012-07-27T07:29:48.376-07:00MOPS Publicity Templates<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0otx9D09-4/UBKjvnPGdwI/AAAAAAAAYi8/qP7MHJRb4r0/s1600/MOPS+Invite+Business+Cards+-+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0otx9D09-4/UBKjvnPGdwI/AAAAAAAAYi8/qP7MHJRb4r0/s800/MOPS+Invite+Business+Cards+-+front.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front Side of Business Card</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aOY9HzLEez8/UBKju4qYAHI/AAAAAAAAYi0/N3DxPoXJ1zQ/s1600/MOPS+Invite+Business+Cards+-+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aOY9HzLEez8/UBKju4qYAHI/AAAAAAAAYi0/N3DxPoXJ1zQ/s800/MOPS+Invite+Business+Cards+-+back.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back Side of Business Card</td></tr>
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O<span style="background-color: white;">ne of the things I've committed to doing this fall is heading up the Publicity Team for MOPS at our church. I'm excited and humbled that I was asked to fill this roll and am THRILLED to see what God is going to do this next year at MOPS. </span><br />
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Now as you may (or may not) remember, last year I was entrusted with the responsibility to publish and print our quarterly <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2011/12/winter-mops-newsletter-template.html" target="_blank">MOPS Newsletter</a>. I went through the long and sometimes tedious task of trying to find an updated, 21st century looking Newsletter template. All of my searching was to no avail. Nothing. Nada.<br />
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So I made my own. <a href="http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com/2011/12/winter-mops-newsletter-template.html" target="_blank">Click here to check out the MOPS Newsletter Template</a> that I created. <br />
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This year I found myself in a similar situation when I wanted to create a few promotional items for MOPS. Unfortunately I wasn't able to find anything that I was crazy about so once again, I designed my own.<br />
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And here's where it gets fun. After putting in the work to check Dr. Google (multiple days in a row) and design business cards and posters for our MOPS team I figured, why not share? <br />
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So sharing is exactly what I'm doing!<br />
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If you (or anyone you know) is interested in a MOPS Business Card Template, a MOPS Poster Template or a MOPS Logo in White (and purple) please, please, please don't hesitate to email me and ask. Email me at alanandsteph@gmail.com. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0PmtBJk35_Q/UBKjwonybpI/AAAAAAAAYjE/08bub43xKHY/s1600/MOPS+Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0PmtBJk35_Q/UBKjwonybpI/AAAAAAAAYjE/08bub43xKHY/s640/MOPS+Poster.jpg" width="484" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MOPS Poster - to print as 8.5x11</td></tr>
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And last, if you're from the Scottsdale/Phoenix area - you MUST check out MOPS. I'd love to have you at my table (the yellow table). For more information go to <a href="http://scottsdalebible.com/ministries/women/moms">http://scottsdalebible.com/ministries/women/moms</a>alan and stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06999379557348624019noreply@blogger.com0