tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29766102400777061582024-03-12T19:25:45.343-04:00Snippets from our homefrontkellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.comBlogger479125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-65980138291529225382013-12-06T19:29:00.000-05:002013-12-16T20:31:34.354-05:00Our first (owned) home. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have waited 8.5 years into our marriage for when we felt was the right time & right place to purchase our first home. We felt that time has come and a few weeks ago we purchased this little gem. We couldn't be more excited and anticipate moving in January. (we'll see who our real friends are, right?!) Kindly, people have already began offering to help, we'll pray it's not too frigid!</div>
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This house was custom built by a couple who have been the only previous owners. You can tell that everything they put in the house was extremely well thought out and even a neighbor told us they kept it in impeccable shape. It's also a good sign when your inspector tells us how amazing it is and extremely well built. </div>
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While we looked at quite a few houses (and I believe Andrew looked at least a thousand on <a href="http://www.zillow.com/pittsburgh.com" target="_blank">Zillow</a>!), this was the only house that really had everything we were hoping for. One of the aspects we are most excited about is that it is across the street from a patch of woods and we are only 3 houses away from the dead end. My kids may finally be able to ride bikes, bless their patient hearts. :) <br />
And an attached, heated garage. Blessing upon blessing. Andrew has worked on our cars in far from stellar conditions in the streets & cold, so thankful for a safe & warm place for this to happen now. And after walking kids across the street for the last 2.5 years and hoping no one dies, I can't even comprehend the joy of loading/unloading with no one's life in danger. :) </div>
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We looked for a home that would be comfortable in hosting large groups & would allow us to serve others in whatever ways we could. Something that would allow us to accommodate our family, foster kids & overnight guests comfortably. God met these needs completely.</div>
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A large living room. </div>
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A large finished basement. Fireplace. Brick. <br />
Gameroom/tv room, kids space during small group, extra guest space....so many possibilities!<br />
While a lot of things need an updated look, so exciting to be able to do whatever we want!</div>
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Great outdoor space. A custom built grill? Love. </div>
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It's not a huge kitchen, but so much more functional that what we have now. Can't wait!</div>
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What? What? A dedicated play room. Ahhhh.....!</div>
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We were looking for 4 BR and this one has 3 + this mini office, so a first project will be to take down the wall dividing these 2 spaces and create an office for Andrew/guest room. </div>
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A couple basic rooms.</div>
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3 bathrooms, including one off the master? Yes please!</div>
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So thankful for the blessing it is to be able to purchase a house.</div>
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Can't wait to make this our home sweet home!</div>
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<br />kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-58465009059680849842013-12-01T06:00:00.000-05:002013-12-06T19:30:12.154-05:00Happy Birthday Hijacking Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is the first time that I, Andrew, have ever written on
our family blog after 7 years and over close to 500 posts from Kelly. So, I’m basically hijacking the page. But I wanted to hijack
it to honor Kelly, who, today, is celebrating her _____<sup>rd</sup> birthday (I’ll let you guess the blank ;) and
list out some things I’m thankful for and love about her.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p>____________________</o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife who thinks outside of herself and
her needs, always eager to serve another person even at the cost of her own convenience
and ease.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife that is generous. She has taught me
to not be so stingy in many areas of life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife that is like a rock emotionally, not
emotionless, but strong and confident in God.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>I love the fact that she rarely
cries and laughs at me when I tear up at the end of Undercover Boss.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife that is willing to care for 4 very
young children full time, 24/7 when she could easily be out doing many other
things.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful that she’s always planning ahead, thinking of
important details.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife who is one of the hardest-working
people I have ever met, working up to 3 jobs at once during our seminary days at the
beginning of our marriage so I could work part-time, go to school full-time,
and finish school debt-free....and she still runs non-stop today, mothering full-time, teaching piano, running a mom's group, and a gazillion other things.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>I love that she started the
<a href="http://momspotpgh.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pittsburgh Momtourage</a> which represents both her industrious nature and care for
others.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife who is an extremely gifted pianist
but serves in a self-effacing manner in <a href="http://www.3riversgrace.org/" target="_blank">our local church</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife that is different than me and for the way
she has taught me that my ideas aren’t always the best.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I thankful for her hospitable spirit, caring more that her
home serves others well than it serves her well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>I love her creativity in the
kitchen…even when the result is kale chips. </i>:\<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife who is realistic about life,
parenting, and marriage, not expecting things to always be perfect and full of
warm fuzzies. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m thankful for a wife that respects me but isn't necessarily impressed with me, being willing to tell me when I'm wrong or being stupid.</div>
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I’m thankful for her incredible patience with me, putting up
with my inconsistencies and extending grace over my sin. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>I love that it's hard to articulate all the things I love. I love you, Kelly. Happy Birthday.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-29208873655066581722013-10-01T20:29:00.000-04:002013-10-02T09:04:46.265-04:00Today I ache & pray for 4 small children. <div style="text-align: center;">
<em>2 little ones joined us a little over 3 months ago. During that time 2 separate family members were taking the steps they needed to become certified to take them. (They are in another state so the process takes a while.) We recently learned that one family member is very close to completion and so 2YO boy could soon be on his way. Unfortunately, the home for the 1YO girl has now closed and so, while we have no idea of her future at the moment, she will continue to stay with us for now. We are very thankful that little guy can go to be with his family, but we are grieved that now these 2 siblings will be split up, even more so that they have 2 other siblings who are already with other family members. </em><br />
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The last 3+ months have been challenging, really challenging. Not only the physical exhaustion of caring for 4 (4 & under), but the emotional exhaustion of guiding forward the 2 that were learning to live life in a new environment. There have been many days where I didn't think I could possibly handle one.more.day. But God's grace has, as always, carried us each day. And we are especially mindful of the prayers of those around us and so thankful for the grace extended through them. As I have often waited for the words with great anticipation, "leaving day", it's hard to believe that through the struggles, love has also been born in a way I didn't think possible. </div>
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And so today I ache & I pray:</div>
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For 2 small children that were born into a home that could not provide the love, safety, & structure that each child desperately needs. </div>
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For 2 small children who didn't even recognize their blood sibling (we don't really know why), but who now greet each other with joy. We don't know if/when they will see each other again. </div>
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For a young boy, who for quite a while called both our kids "Graham" (haha!), but might not see them again. </div>
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For a little boy who greets me with "mommy!" and does a little dance in the morning and will now be facing yet a 3rd mommy in his life. We desperately pray this one will be final. <br />
For a little boy whose only experience with a loving, hands-on daddy might only be this brief 3 months in his life. </div>
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For a little girl who's favorite word is "knock-knock" accompanied by giggles and she doesn't even know why. </div>
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For a little girl who came to us with the scariest blank stare and whose angry eyes have been replaced with learning how to laugh & giggle. <br />
For a little girl whose future is so unknown. For whom I fear she may be one of those who flourish and grow in a long-term foster home only to be taken away by a court system who demands family re-unification even if it's been 2 years. <br />
For 4 small children who have grown accustomed to life with 4 crazy siblings and will soon be saying goodbye to one.<br />
For a little boy who will be leaving everything he has grown familiar with and grown to love and will be starting over with all things new. </div>
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For our own boy who asks, "why can't we just adopt them?" and has begun introducing them as his brother and sister, even though we talk frequently about their temporary stay. </div>
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For our own little girl who really doesn't understand the process and will be saying goodbye to her "twin" who we have seen her grow to nurture and love. <br />
*<br />
I ache & I pray for a world where sin has left small children without their families. <br />
But most of all, I <u>hope</u> and I <u>trust</u> in the grace of a Sovereign God who holds all things in His hands. Without that assurance, we have no hope! <br />
<em>Waiting for our blessed </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Tt1.2/" original-title="See ch. 1:2" style="display: none;"><em>o</em></a><em>hope, the </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/2Th2.8/" original-title="See 2 Thess. 2:8" style="display: none;"><em>p</em></a><em>appearing of the glory of our great </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/2P1.1/" original-title="2 Pet. 1:1" style="display: none;"><em>q</em></a><em>God and Savior Jesus Christ, <span class="verse-num" id="v56002014-1" style="display: none;">14 </span></em><a alt="esv_01" class="va" href="http://www.blogger.com/null" rel="v56002014" style="display: none;"></a><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Mt20.28/" original-title="See Matt. 20:28" style="display: none;"><em>r</em></a><em>who gave himself for us to </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Ps130.8%3B1P1.18/" original-title="Ps. 130:8; See 1 Pet. 1:18" style="display: none;"><em>s</em></a><em>redeem us from all lawlessness and </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Eze37.23%3BEx19.5/" original-title="Ezek. 37:23; See Ex. 19:5" style="display: none;"><em>t</em></a><em>to purify for himself </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Eze37.23%3BEx19.5/" original-title="Ezek. 37:23; See Ex. 19:5" style="display: none;"><em>t</em></a><em>a people for his own possession who are </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Tt3.8%3BEp2.10/" original-title="ch. 3:8; Eph. 2:10" style="display: none;"><em>u</em></a><em>zealous for good works.</em> <br />
Titus 2:13-14</div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-9425500996943141762013-09-20T13:24:00.003-04:002013-09-20T13:25:28.013-04:00Coupons for Corn Mazes, Pumpkin Patches and Fall Family Activities in 24 States!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a promo I'm doing for the<a href="http://momspotpgh.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> <span style="color: #45818e;">Pgh Momtourage</span></a> (yay for free admittance to all of these!), but since many of my friends are scattered around the U.S., I thought I'd post it here all well. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6jQ2aGbM4wQA3nQjIWtgu9E5Nj1_JOktKQg7cEPG1MAEGlylsxcuCHUh6GLZ8BmHKbzkCv8upQhnyc1pywXRc4p0YgU9ht7Z4F0HLyidccPhtBqshMIQCzjYal7J-kmqeIJ0JmA9MHg/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6jQ2aGbM4wQA3nQjIWtgu9E5Nj1_JOktKQg7cEPG1MAEGlylsxcuCHUh6GLZ8BmHKbzkCv8upQhnyc1pywXRc4p0YgU9ht7Z4F0HLyidccPhtBqshMIQCzjYal7J-kmqeIJ0JmA9MHg/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fall Festivals at many of our local farms is one of my favorite things! And now I have this to pass along to you........</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Ready for some Fall Festival Deals? Here's a great list of Corn Maze Coupons and Fall Festival savings nationwide. Download valuable coupons for Corn Mazes, Pumpkin Patches and Fall Family Activities! </span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><strong>Arizona</strong><br /><a href="http://arizonakidsguide.com/coupon.php?bid=11340&dealid=1427&regionid=384" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Schnepf Farms</span></a> - Queen City </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://phoenixkids.com/coupon.php?bid=154294&id=164" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Tolmachoff Farms</span></a>- Glendale</span><br /><br /><strong>California</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11321&dealid=1383" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Forneris Farms</span></a> - Mission Hills<br /><br /><strong>Colorado</strong><br /><a href="http://www.coloradokids.com/coupon.php?id=10010306" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Anderson Farms</span></a> - Erie</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><br /><a href="http://www.coloradokids.com/coupon.php?id=23050630" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Flat Acres Farm</span></a> - Parker<br /><a href="http://www.coloradokids.com/coupon.php?id=23050909" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Fritzler Maze</span></a> - La Salle<br /><a href="http://www.coloradokids.com/coupon.php?id=23050691" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Sunflower Farm</span></a> - Longmont<br /><a href="http://www.coloradokids.com/coupon.php?id=23050623" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Mile High Farms</span></a> - Bennett<br /><a href="http://www.coloradokids.com/coupon.php?id=23050907" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Wishing Star Farm</span></a> - Calhan<br /><a href="http://www.coloradokids.com/coupon.php?id=23050912" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Harvest Farm</span></a> - Wellington <br /><br /><strong>Texas</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=10878&dealid=978" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Devine Acres Farm</span></a> - Devine <br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=10954&dealid=1046" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Fiesta Farm</span></a> - San Antonio<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=10882&dealid=982" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Yesterland Farm</span></a> - Canton<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=10868&dealid=983" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">South Texas Maize</span></a> - Hondo<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11327&dealid=1388" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Dewberry Farm</span></a> - Brookshire<br /><a href="http://www.houstonkidsguide.com/coupon.php?bid=11360&dealid=1423&regionid=410" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Brazos Valley Maize</span></a>- Brenham<br /><br /><strong>Louisiana</strong> <br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11234&dealid=1307" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">CM Farms</span></a> - Dry Creek <br /><br /><strong>Georgia</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11324&dealid=1385" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Lane Southern Orchards</span></a> - Fort Valley<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11352&dealid=1415" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Poppell Farms</span></a> - Odum <br /><br /><strong>Michigan</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11309&dealid=1372" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Farmer Charley's Corn Maze Adventure</span></a> - Monroe <br /><br /><strong>Indiana</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11269&dealid=1332" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Amazing Fall Fun</span></a> - Waterloo<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11319&dealid=1381" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Harvest Tyme Pumpkin Patch</span></a> - Lowell<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11222&dealid=1289" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Hobson's Fun Farm</span></a> - Rockville </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://www.indianapoliskidsguide.com/coupon.php?bid=11364&lid=14743&dealid=1428&regionid=418" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Guffey Acres</span></a>- Kokomo</span><br /><br /><strong>Illinois</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11250&dealid=1409" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">All Seasons Orchard</span></a> - Woodstock<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11316&dealid=1378" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Kuipers Family Farm</span></a> - Maple Park<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11259&dealid=1326" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Odyssey Fun Farm</span></a> - Tinley Park<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11355&dealid=1417" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Siegel's Cottonwood Farm</span></a> - Lockport <br /><br /><strong>Maryland/DC</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11213&dealid=1410" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Summers Farm</span></a> - Fredrick County <br /><br /><strong>Massachusetts</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11343&dealid=1404" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Sauchuk Farm</span></a> - Plympton <br /><strong><br />Missouri/Kansas</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11358&dealid=1420" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">KC Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze</span></a> - Gardner <br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11351&dealid=1414" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Shuck's Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch</span></a> - Pleasant Hill <br /><br /><strong>Mississippi</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11214&dealid=1277" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Seward Farms Maze</span></a> - Lucedale <br /><br /><strong>Minnesota</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11342&dealid=1403" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Afton Apple Orchard</span></a> - Hastings <br /><br /><strong>Montana</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11353&dealid=1416" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">The Maize at Grandpa's Farm</span></a> - Billings <br /><br /><strong>Nebraska</strong> <br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11350&dealid=1413" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Camp Fontanelle</span></a> - Nickerson <br /><br /><strong>NewJersey</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11344&dealid=1405" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">VonThun Farms</span></a> - Monmouth Junction<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11341&dealid=1402" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Sahl's Father Son Farm</span></a> - Egg Harbor City <br /><br /><strong>New York</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11326&dealid=1387" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Wright Family Farm</span></a> - Warwick<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11357&dealid=1419" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Harbes Family Farm</span></a> - Mattituck <br /><br /><strong>North Carolina</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11348&dealid=1411" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Patterson Farm Market and Tours</span></a> - Mount Ulla <br /><br /><strong>Ohio</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11339&dealid=1400" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">The Corn Maze at the Sharp Run Market</span></a> - Millersburg<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11356&dealid=1418" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Meadow View Growers</span></a> - New Carlisle </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><strong>Oregon</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://portlandfamilyguide.com/coupon.php?bid=11366&dealid=1429&regionid=213" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">The Maize at The Pumpkin Patch</span></a>- Portland</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><strong>Pennsylvania</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://www.pennsylvaniakidsguide.com/coupon.php?bid=11294&dealid=1355&regionid=208" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Hurricane Hill Farm</span></a> - Coatsville</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://www.pittsburghkidsguide.com/coupon.php?bid=10880&dealid=1426&regionid=58" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Triple B Farms</span></a> - Pittsburgh</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://www.pennsylvaniakidsguide.com/coupon.php?bid=8584&dealid=1345&regionid=208" target="_blank"><br /><span style="color: #0072c6;">Reillys Summer Seat Farm</span></a> - Pittsburgh</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><strong>Rhode Island</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11330&dealid=1390" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Confreda Greenhouses & Farms</span></a> - Hope (Western Cranston) <br /><br /><strong>Virginia</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11310&dealid=1373" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Cows-N-Corn</span></a> - Midland<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11317&dealid=1379" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Wayside Farm Fun</span></a> - Berryville<br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11359&dealid=1421" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">Belvedere Plantation</span></a> - Fredericksburg <br /><br /><strong>Utah</strong><br /><a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=460&bid=11362&dealid=1425" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;"> Cornbelly's Corn Maze & Pumpkin Fest</span></a> - Spanish Fork</span><br />
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1YxODT8hkQAcsTReQCHTIHUtPoNfhd0nWZlu1uqBec6AQ0msLMde9cokQgnzBpNQMnc3wGTNcw7byqS7AWUmm82S3pxMdemBVBUDHSzzNUaN_1QOQvppBQURYa-Yb5yyETiQZ1Y-Yks/s320/21.jpg" width="240" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;">For Daily Updates on these coupons and coupons for other family attractions please visit and bookmark: <a href="http://www.usfamilycoupons.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0072c6;">http://www.usfamilycoupons.com </span></a></span></div>
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kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-72955814785945066062013-08-26T21:27:00.000-04:002013-08-26T21:27:14.559-04:00The Big First {for mommy & daddy too!}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've entered. </div>
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The school calendar will now rule our lives for the next 20+ years. :) </div>
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We had one very excited little guy! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhml5fex1MdjDITJzXd0IDYLtRX8HpHQ-M6gQ5XXyWMY9anCIdb2-18eXQw4TwrcUUx8-8AQW6lFpv4qzIsYF8jDZjSaoTvB936GtHL7IXGY5RSnDoRJX9MqfqzNdOZf8XiVUEuT8SNQJo/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhml5fex1MdjDITJzXd0IDYLtRX8HpHQ-M6gQ5XXyWMY9anCIdb2-18eXQw4TwrcUUx8-8AQW6lFpv4qzIsYF8jDZjSaoTvB936GtHL7IXGY5RSnDoRJX9MqfqzNdOZf8XiVUEuT8SNQJo/s400/1.png" width="282" /></a></div>
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Many moms talk about the emotional torture as they prepare to send their child off for the first time. Maybe there's something wrong with me, :) but I truly felt only excitement for him! We were very much on the fence about preschool. Not sure if we would send him or if it's necessary for everyone, but this boy loves to learn. And we felt he would thrive in a new learning environment. Especially with having various foster kids in & out of our home which can create seasons of chaos, not to mention having a lot of little ones competing for attention, I knew I could not count on having devoted time to lessons. We were so happy to find a school that did 3 day / half-day. So he will go from noon-3, M/W/F. This school also has half day kindergarten which is a big bonus for us. I love the slow transition before going full day in 1st grade. I guess I'm not totally ready to send him off. :)</div>
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<em>It's hard to wait until after lunch when you're so excited.</em> </div>
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{ Just so mommy can join the party, I was heading to my first parent orientation.} </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0juQzvQp9eVAAlBq2zFXeyGGeEYLxuHkrapAvK8PCFd7B3t25hWK7xkC83QzPwTsZBpsRHHYmKvBz7fpP24WKKao7vVpBu2HPelPzao8M-jRr12HQCLenqr6iEvx69ixCUo_aBjaES_0/s1600/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0juQzvQp9eVAAlBq2zFXeyGGeEYLxuHkrapAvK8PCFd7B3t25hWK7xkC83QzPwTsZBpsRHHYmKvBz7fpP24WKKao7vVpBu2HPelPzao8M-jRr12HQCLenqr6iEvx69ixCUo_aBjaES_0/s400/4.png" width="195" /></a></div>
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His teacher comes so highly recommended and she is fantastic! She also has a full-time aid which will help with the energy that is 11 boys & 3 girls in his class. :)</div>
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I love that he gets to do music, art & gym classes each week as well. </div>
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Because school will do that to ya. </div>
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{And sometimes only your sister's sunglasses are in the car.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9x7ToT9VX6cOm-VVIjEUEi9QFqUbfA1Rjbm0PVfT074w4porw8zPChJhyphenhyphenWKC0-8gJJvJyjHeleFqt18DX_ABqwdF1KOKUkWCQoENcIfo4VMjJjnZXFPZyUfcLoKX1t68hgLZ8fJwI1k0/s1600/6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9x7ToT9VX6cOm-VVIjEUEi9QFqUbfA1Rjbm0PVfT074w4porw8zPChJhyphenhyphenWKC0-8gJJvJyjHeleFqt18DX_ABqwdF1KOKUkWCQoENcIfo4VMjJjnZXFPZyUfcLoKX1t68hgLZ8fJwI1k0/s400/6.png" width="225" /></a></div>
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<em>We love you, Graham, and we love to see your excitement as you learn & grow! But most of all we pray that you....</em></div>
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<em><span style="color: #45818e;">...</span></em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/2P1.5%3BEp4.15%3BCs1.10%3BCs2.19%3B1P2.2/" original-title="ch. 1:5; Eph. 4:15; Col. 1:10; 2:19; 1 Pet. 2:2" style="display: none;"><em><span style="color: #45818e;">s</span></em></a><em><span style="color: #45818e;">grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. </span></em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Rm11.36/" original-title="See Rom. 11:36" style="display: none;"><em><span style="color: #45818e;">t</span></em></a><em><span style="color: #45818e;">To him be the glory both now and to the day of </span></em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/2P3.8/" original-title="[ver. 8]" style="display: none;"><em><span style="color: #45818e;">u</span></em></a><span style="color: #45818e;"><em>eternity</em>. 2 Peter 3:18</span></div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-74951857780065794612013-08-15T19:28:00.000-04:002013-08-15T19:28:12.262-04:00Pgh Momtourage turns 4!It's hard to believe that the little group I started, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pghmomtourage" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Pgh Momtourage</span></a>, turned 4 this August!
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My initial thought.....<em>hey, let's throw a party</em>! </div>
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Then........</div>
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And let's invite local small businesses to be a part of our event. </div>
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And let's see if we can get an amazing location. </div>
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And let's see if a Food Truck wants to come. </div>
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And let's get some cool family entertainers. </div>
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And let's have a great night!</div>
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And so we did. </div>
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<span style="color: #fff2cc;">*</span></div>
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Thanks to Andrew's involvement in our church's neighborhood community group, I received the city's approval to hold our event in the beautiful West End Overlook. Normally a $250 fee, I was so thankful for this great venue! Local businesses set up tables & wares and it was fun to see so many people, old friends & new, come and join us. All our entertainers, businesses, & food vendors donated their time & resources, it was amazing to see everyone jump on board and want to make this happen. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmR_J8Ml2ZjxExMQgVCgAKiqJ8TPdBhFJ6ZFTwkYSjLwdwsyxEEP0SgRkZ_ye8pEjjM6cVCDhLreAkGtK5M2mU2nCi6s-_t2Nr6-IQXOuS8PdWmRi4omUvUBe0nuFOfo0JgA5VeyAz2z8/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmR_J8Ml2ZjxExMQgVCgAKiqJ8TPdBhFJ6ZFTwkYSjLwdwsyxEEP0SgRkZ_ye8pEjjM6cVCDhLreAkGtK5M2mU2nCi6s-_t2Nr6-IQXOuS8PdWmRi4omUvUBe0nuFOfo0JgA5VeyAz2z8/s320/19.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My friend James, who also happens to be a fun entertainer, was up for the opening show. <a href="http://happyharrytheclown.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Happy Harry the Clown</span></a> started out our evening with a show with lots of laughs. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFZvErnXAHQSoi5lU6w32zKuKLJ732-ecf93lfPmOEfnsEkQZGb8nB6leMOHqxfQVXr15huxATcXzwfa8fNAOuqF58jZ5Ht5az88T5xd-qeGdTvt7ArBzcPLqCI_tHpm6QtPHdKVikXI/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFZvErnXAHQSoi5lU6w32zKuKLJ732-ecf93lfPmOEfnsEkQZGb8nB6leMOHqxfQVXr15huxATcXzwfa8fNAOuqF58jZ5Ht5az88T5xd-qeGdTvt7ArBzcPLqCI_tHpm6QtPHdKVikXI/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2hz8ZGwrdAnlhA8VjwGCwRS1IjOMEFgur5Q-xhyIObVRLkCK8bP8l9LDwImtMEtKoaiHZ-WqJ9eoqt82UuYkNEGKP9jIgR_-UzeWQTi7eM15F1N0jarnQqqTRUVgbAvhRfcRBCqpaWE/s1600/31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2hz8ZGwrdAnlhA8VjwGCwRS1IjOMEFgur5Q-xhyIObVRLkCK8bP8l9LDwImtMEtKoaiHZ-WqJ9eoqt82UuYkNEGKP9jIgR_-UzeWQTi7eM15F1N0jarnQqqTRUVgbAvhRfcRBCqpaWE/s400/31.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Next on our list of great entertainers was the always hilarious <a href="http://almazing.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Pittsburgh Magician Al Mazing</span></a>! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaavlcwnlZGDgcFo9PymcrASFxvMX5N3eyDmAegOoEha4RV_Et_ADwL0UYjIL-is3eYJ5saLOBG7AjUvuyF73q8x457hJT7e4TuswJA9eOWtsP8ZBeIXDnHIUspk0K1fKbeuaTETvvhYw/s1600/27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaavlcwnlZGDgcFo9PymcrASFxvMX5N3eyDmAegOoEha4RV_Et_ADwL0UYjIL-is3eYJ5saLOBG7AjUvuyF73q8x457hJT7e4TuswJA9eOWtsP8ZBeIXDnHIUspk0K1fKbeuaTETvvhYw/s400/27.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Very funny, the kids (& adults) love him! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsD66kvqqh1ykfFw3mv8NEnWUO4bK2w6Pxyg6sAlUuHOwuqjFiF2IOQSVaocP1ufIDF6VhLJHyBVGsuSh63tcwwsY_2uHmNUX91Ndo4igu0-YvkJrkBKJpVkfcAefueQSfbxoTAkbtBbY/s1600/28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsD66kvqqh1ykfFw3mv8NEnWUO4bK2w6Pxyg6sAlUuHOwuqjFiF2IOQSVaocP1ufIDF6VhLJHyBVGsuSh63tcwwsY_2uHmNUX91Ndo4igu0-YvkJrkBKJpVkfcAefueQSfbxoTAkbtBbY/s400/28.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A great crowd!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8s8kmwk3VUmGk8NK0VtKlO7DJNDUPLc5ircWoF0J747kuYK__G5lQcXFMqyIAKa_ctZ_oDUw_hYeNEcwynn3jeM1KL9kAbwI8JgKXH1CDFWdWj_Ln7bH5g0yymcbW5guuJ9KeMJHV48/s1600/29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8s8kmwk3VUmGk8NK0VtKlO7DJNDUPLc5ircWoF0J747kuYK__G5lQcXFMqyIAKa_ctZ_oDUw_hYeNEcwynn3jeM1KL9kAbwI8JgKXH1CDFWdWj_Ln7bH5g0yymcbW5guuJ9KeMJHV48/s400/29.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So happy to have the <a href="http://www.brgrpgh.com/foodtruck.php" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">BRGR Food Truck</span></a> come with yummy burgers & shakes! They told me it was one of their favorite events they had been a part of, but I'm sure it was partly because of their view for the evening. :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnIndoXi9CMnQ5kO3CifYTCWEdI2X-wtRtWlwvUPvCQ_r3wTVVdVJDphM8e-Sm0S4d536qwcgJOL9emKKTNsJMGQakDQ330UhY9NHr_JNqRb7crQoVAp3LQVe39rNIMgoXj5aNgftptg/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnIndoXi9CMnQ5kO3CifYTCWEdI2X-wtRtWlwvUPvCQ_r3wTVVdVJDphM8e-Sm0S4d536qwcgJOL9emKKTNsJMGQakDQ330UhY9NHr_JNqRb7crQoVAp3LQVe39rNIMgoXj5aNgftptg/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/west-end-elliott-overlook-pittsburgh" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">West End Overlook</span></a> is a hidden gem! It was fun to have so many people come through that had never been to this little spot. I know it was exactly the exposure the Community Group was hoping would happen. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBZ12u2-zjJdRigCOZBU5L24RSVVFZfyFVRJgsF1qX6mel6APejjY69zG1WxneYRJntVuMtIIy_buwEKS4ZwnGkQY3ricoEuR7qmwT8YdHUYB0CcsBTiUNUaovZebI4d1WBhg6ElQkOY/s1600/26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBZ12u2-zjJdRigCOZBU5L24RSVVFZfyFVRJgsF1qX6mel6APejjY69zG1WxneYRJntVuMtIIy_buwEKS4ZwnGkQY3ricoEuR7qmwT8YdHUYB0CcsBTiUNUaovZebI4d1WBhg6ElQkOY/s400/26.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Since our church, <a href="http://www.3riversgrace.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Three Rivers Grace Church</span></a>, was only a few blocks from this location, it was a great opportunity to be there with candy, water, & books to give away!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFev6X9GvnjZWczNQ5xkOS7nKtBHEh5QHa2f0cGbmoNKo5ByG9cojC3glp9ZsjAcUIbXMHYTKzL4FI03Y_mpF8Od2CdKL6o3b4FLpNYBI0DrXgOa0hMi-FngL-EsvwuoUTU71FiCBd048/s1600/24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFev6X9GvnjZWczNQ5xkOS7nKtBHEh5QHa2f0cGbmoNKo5ByG9cojC3glp9ZsjAcUIbXMHYTKzL4FI03Y_mpF8Od2CdKL6o3b4FLpNYBI0DrXgOa0hMi-FngL-EsvwuoUTU71FiCBd048/s400/24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our local library branch was so kind to come out as well. They had the genius idea to bring a <em>sand pool</em>, complete with dinosaurs. It was a big hit! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDElmuuw1dR3fbJ1i-F4gS_PATQEFYA-IqjElOapPbi7F2MeRKqI-1KGW6FMDs0LRhp2x557o1o5BWT54sf3dThQ3aiDbHEJHjmBKbEsxbiyw3or7749O-x3-XIgVzYkO58kfBvGMuag/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDElmuuw1dR3fbJ1i-F4gS_PATQEFYA-IqjElOapPbi7F2MeRKqI-1KGW6FMDs0LRhp2x557o1o5BWT54sf3dThQ3aiDbHEJHjmBKbEsxbiyw3or7749O-x3-XIgVzYkO58kfBvGMuag/s400/23.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Children's librarian, Ms. Jamie, (my kids love her!) ended our evening with her ukulele, tambourines, + a goodnight story time. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoDx13TOO5muVhYqtGx__c1ZMzvyudKHZhU9pdsPKIbW19-3ri16STAK9cG3Ox8enNCMvDBQzJp3gGRkM-8y87iO_Hnqiw3n_XLhjJSobXOBzpUU0nexQfmma3RdNxx4V-OMW1dSvr72M/s1600/30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoDx13TOO5muVhYqtGx__c1ZMzvyudKHZhU9pdsPKIbW19-3ri16STAK9cG3Ox8enNCMvDBQzJp3gGRkM-8y87iO_Hnqiw3n_XLhjJSobXOBzpUU0nexQfmma3RdNxx4V-OMW1dSvr72M/s400/30.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.facesbychristina.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;"> Faces by Christina</span></a> was on hand doing some great face art!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-uTVnNIMFx8tlUn0tmVKyMS5XCrW5DkRFEE-MGoEDHHf-s7Oq6aE085CFaNveZNuDLLBTUWG9j1UIKmjmzeXZ-HPnATajviDJkWCZbxCMPheCN0rxhQ7OoxIfv9DykfbgMYDvwMcguE/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-uTVnNIMFx8tlUn0tmVKyMS5XCrW5DkRFEE-MGoEDHHf-s7Oq6aE085CFaNveZNuDLLBTUWG9j1UIKmjmzeXZ-HPnATajviDJkWCZbxCMPheCN0rxhQ7OoxIfv9DykfbgMYDvwMcguE/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;">Some great local businesses joined us! They all generously gave away prize packages at the end of the evening!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #93c47d;">********************</span></div>
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We were so excited to hear that <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Klavons-Ice-Cream-Parlor/687438254616750" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Klavon's</span></a> is re-opening in the Strip District! They brought some of their amazing ice cream & homemade fudge - delish! </div>
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<em>Klavon's is an authentic antique 1920's Ice Cream Parlor located in the Strip District of Pittsburgh- 2801 Penn Avenue. Re-opening under new ownership, but the same awesome historic feel.</em> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLhE5FwZfVbHsXCu62f39GVvpdEaRcq0y4GLVwmGrihZzxVuLMU8qXQn9CgQ4GSwDOlMhbUzto5-26-RXApacMWRrykzBx1dE-JfAmlHJxz_theHI-SzAlDj4llQbMUOqGxiVAJk_X2k/s1600/25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLhE5FwZfVbHsXCu62f39GVvpdEaRcq0y4GLVwmGrihZzxVuLMU8qXQn9CgQ4GSwDOlMhbUzto5-26-RXApacMWRrykzBx1dE-JfAmlHJxz_theHI-SzAlDj4llQbMUOqGxiVAJk_X2k/s320/25.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Anne Lee is a talented local artist & author. She has written an excellent children's book <a href="http://anneleestudio.blogspot.com/2013/07/when-you-are-camping-painting-and.html" target="_blank"><em><span style="color: #45818e;">When You Are Camping</span></em></a> (great summer resource for kids!) She also does beautifully hand painted cards & pictures. Check her out <a href="http://anneleestudio.blogspot.com/?view=magazine" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">here</span></a> to see more of her creative work! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfMm6p58ureFKfXPbnLOWfaNNpdfa9QTc9QArObim0mJ_hPygcZg_G6COYpw3Z2bwaZ4QuAbFD8AEGVG5m1TF37wrAk1ETfpQOIbMX-X8PiD3yNqll3B1V4MdijCNmr0d4xbEVYERJPo/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfMm6p58ureFKfXPbnLOWfaNNpdfa9QTc9QArObim0mJ_hPygcZg_G6COYpw3Z2bwaZ4QuAbFD8AEGVG5m1TF37wrAk1ETfpQOIbMX-X8PiD3yNqll3B1V4MdijCNmr0d4xbEVYERJPo/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The talented gals from <a href="http://yoursimplecelebrations.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Simple Celebrations</span></a>! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX-JU-W4mazQZZCCpNqoJxnTEV58PkKzvVwXMNqzDArJ9k3ki2ebxxXr0_VldI0FTkgf4z20NRSQMbBjDOTunTkW7u6gviX2gAgILN0GhHNTx9ZQfKevUPuSvCf_HaKwswmTBsQ2NSWvc/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX-JU-W4mazQZZCCpNqoJxnTEV58PkKzvVwXMNqzDArJ9k3ki2ebxxXr0_VldI0FTkgf4z20NRSQMbBjDOTunTkW7u6gviX2gAgILN0GhHNTx9ZQfKevUPuSvCf_HaKwswmTBsQ2NSWvc/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>Simple Celebrations is an event planning service that takes all of the work out of organizing your happy occasion. Whether you need an all-inclusive event or just custom designed favors, our goal is to create a unique celebration tailored to your needs. You choose your theme, set your budget, and leave the rest to us! From delivered décor that you set up on your own, to having us there to put it all together, Simple Celebrations will help you to host an event to remember.</em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTrwMfNvvNvO8Buz9T_8ximHGqt5RJzrj3tG1HeJBi6d7Ql9a_rGpZ-Dii0suciNP9zqJXifE7Eek4kuPWSdKRcKnzFURpKoZL_i3oGyJzKV130VpI5VB6fpPK_Zsu-w5-NgiM7NZGD0/s1600/00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTrwMfNvvNvO8Buz9T_8ximHGqt5RJzrj3tG1HeJBi6d7Ql9a_rGpZ-Dii0suciNP9zqJXifE7Eek4kuPWSdKRcKnzFURpKoZL_i3oGyJzKV130VpI5VB6fpPK_Zsu-w5-NgiM7NZGD0/s400/00.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bumble-n-Bug/335885909866423" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Bumble n Bug</span></a> has fun, unique gifts for babies & moms! </div>
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<em>They specialize in hand crafted baby products that are fun, whimsical and downright adorable.</em> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9apbofWpZ5HRC_x6xvhTwNOYAYV3zh3d7U6Pn50g_iyE5qA-mv9TUwGyiLRWEbPCNH_cnJqtYW_82M35cxvbZYffpHE5-LZVS5GvOotVtx5nNAyoWve8farckdAV73o3oOgNlG94N-w/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9apbofWpZ5HRC_x6xvhTwNOYAYV3zh3d7U6Pn50g_iyE5qA-mv9TUwGyiLRWEbPCNH_cnJqtYW_82M35cxvbZYffpHE5-LZVS5GvOotVtx5nNAyoWve8farckdAV73o3oOgNlG94N-w/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.toys2try.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">E2 Toys to Try</span></a> is a fantastic local indoor play space + toy store. They came with glitter tattoos, games, crafts & prizes! The Momtourage is a big fan of holding playdates there!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelfAJLs_6H3H2kwj5W88tKwt8SXMFF0cou0v_R99B2AYxtOPpyffDF9I1sF9EiXFPRU-lo9yFuKzdjyJgKvAMzHgzTOayBneMsbj-jvOfhJCCkiI9qLpNQFmG4q7kK-S4qUvNlY59IuQ/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelfAJLs_6H3H2kwj5W88tKwt8SXMFF0cou0v_R99B2AYxtOPpyffDF9I1sF9EiXFPRU-lo9yFuKzdjyJgKvAMzHgzTOayBneMsbj-jvOfhJCCkiI9qLpNQFmG4q7kK-S4qUvNlY59IuQ/s400/15.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.partylite.biz/sites/shanmarie837" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">PartyLite</span></a> brought quality candles & beautiful accessories!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkDXYp38jyFegEAgs-0CXdGCxte1gdk90nDkXpuXu0My5D4GI7zQB-6SkTs0fK-781z9Wm5gbRn76KUgOrZdaAPY2Npv69YjM9Y2nUr8S0DKdvcReO5YvoZD_qF8fycgmWTI2QxA25nE/s1600/000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkDXYp38jyFegEAgs-0CXdGCxte1gdk90nDkXpuXu0My5D4GI7zQB-6SkTs0fK-781z9Wm5gbRn76KUgOrZdaAPY2Npv69YjM9Y2nUr8S0DKdvcReO5YvoZD_qF8fycgmWTI2QxA25nE/s400/000.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MonkeyKissesBOWtique" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Monkey Kisses BOWtique</span></a> brought adorable girly accessories!</div>
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Check out her<em> Big Bows for cute babies!</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlHGSh6C2oHfj3dO6OO0L-_bABqmbUggKjXK_ptozpl4znAo0EBVq5dSD4RBpnlCFH_rpEmih_K9Q7962Alu_CtgFRqqKIQUHnFaFTJ9xYuuK9lFGZI8iR_iluZfa30QKnZKYIjTJvjI/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlHGSh6C2oHfj3dO6OO0L-_bABqmbUggKjXK_ptozpl4znAo0EBVq5dSD4RBpnlCFH_rpEmih_K9Q7962Alu_CtgFRqqKIQUHnFaFTJ9xYuuK9lFGZI8iR_iluZfa30QKnZKYIjTJvjI/s400/16.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Jenny Jones from <a href="http://www.mysilpada.com/Jenny.jones1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Silpada Jewelry</span></a> (with a cute little sidekick!) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLvqSpML7_wYhELNC9PCfBPA8OfpFRtBq5HDilfOGU9W-MTxrG8ezDygqR8bo25Wt117fF9VJjGlw9EMlxCKd0VsU8G3oliDHMN5mb7mmlwVzr8uKJMYCD2w4F3EtIgAe59C0-7r2Ko5Y/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLvqSpML7_wYhELNC9PCfBPA8OfpFRtBq5HDilfOGU9W-MTxrG8ezDygqR8bo25Wt117fF9VJjGlw9EMlxCKd0VsU8G3oliDHMN5mb7mmlwVzr8uKJMYCD2w4F3EtIgAe59C0-7r2Ko5Y/s400/17.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span itemprop="name" style="color: #45818e;"><a href="http://www.chateaucafeandcakery.com/" target="_blank">Chateau Cafe and Cakery</a></span></div>
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<span itemprop="name">Our friend Laura has newly opened Chateau in Pittsburgh's North Side. Must.stop.in. </span></div>
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<span itemprop="name"><em>Offering breakfast, lunch and unique sweet-treats in a relaxed environment with natural wood decor, retro Pittsburgh photos on the walls and humorous/witty blurbs to tickle your funny bone. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee, or one of our signature Chateau herbal tea blends, while chatting up one of our friendly Chateauristas.</em> Try a Apple Pecan Salad...Ham, Bacon and Maple Mayo Panini...Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Slaw Wrap...or one of their many delicious sweet treats! <strong><em>Pittsburgh Born and Fed!</em></strong> </span></div>
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</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZqC_Ugk10GgUH7CS8o1HXBmMQR9Luy1lm7px6f_YMNNX9spmdobQ6c1xTIfaCiDdrAy9Y5DZ29PKm5csTdaNY5kNLMNU6_mOv-pZQuYCHUWrbZbdlRRNJfHoZ7OtDniLp4kELHaxWhY/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZqC_Ugk10GgUH7CS8o1HXBmMQR9Luy1lm7px6f_YMNNX9spmdobQ6c1xTIfaCiDdrAy9Y5DZ29PKm5csTdaNY5kNLMNU6_mOv-pZQuYCHUWrbZbdlRRNJfHoZ7OtDniLp4kELHaxWhY/s400/21.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CreatedToPlay" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Created To Play</span></a> has a complete Etsy store with everything for your party needs! With favors, party supplies, photo props, cards & much, much more. Custom creations also available. Check her shop for your next wedding or baby shower, or party of any kind!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPdyW85DjNairBOiMNbrwOqsrx6YgHhHwnU6kjKHO1PgG8hlXKAIVwtXnECKE5Z6T6mkljcFRMxovvbzBfTyod9XqK9Yjdn0Kj8OCxQetdMdCaZGZnEeEEIB5ffw7l1YoRi5HHI0P3KY/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPdyW85DjNairBOiMNbrwOqsrx6YgHhHwnU6kjKHO1PgG8hlXKAIVwtXnECKE5Z6T6mkljcFRMxovvbzBfTyod9XqK9Yjdn0Kj8OCxQetdMdCaZGZnEeEEIB5ffw7l1YoRi5HHI0P3KY/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/graceinabundance" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Grace in Abundance</span></a> brought the most beautiful & colorful assortment of wares! </div>
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<em>Sweet items for little ones out of beautiful fabrics that I love:<br /> skirts, dresses, headbands, quilts, <br /> receiving blankets, bibs, burp cloths,<br /> onesies, applique gifts and more. </em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdO7-jArAHvBhcrJIFNCabapfAWAr5D9Sm1cLSUmhbqKtPsD9r6QoPWqT70fx0pEdAU0FJqHPurJutmYjwFvfEiPspJT2CBCjq_beTd9MA2WX0guhAh9x8R5nnu5albB_cCtnWa_m_tek/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdO7-jArAHvBhcrJIFNCabapfAWAr5D9Sm1cLSUmhbqKtPsD9r6QoPWqT70fx0pEdAU0FJqHPurJutmYjwFvfEiPspJT2CBCjq_beTd9MA2WX0guhAh9x8R5nnu5albB_cCtnWa_m_tek/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pamperpartiespgh.webs.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">Pamper Parties Pittsburgh</span></a>, <span style="color: #531f7e; font-family: Georgia;">a unique mobile spa party business<em>,</em></span> offered free nail art for the evening and gave us a great overview of their Indulgence line of Bath, Body, and Skin Care Products made from all natural edible ingredients!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, arial; font-size: small; font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #531f7e;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBomQgBNt_q3nNYKub0rwnZyTgN0IqCLK0z50GMLcCJYY2pjKtjRGwKLs8f5dNpNlupq26z-6Oz9aKLqFGl_waKblZPOt6hRI-hYRhOsjt5Vv0C4j0fQfrGgmTEmobJYPz42WpPerblQ/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBomQgBNt_q3nNYKub0rwnZyTgN0IqCLK0z50GMLcCJYY2pjKtjRGwKLs8f5dNpNlupq26z-6Oz9aKLqFGl_waKblZPOt6hRI-hYRhOsjt5Vv0C4j0fQfrGgmTEmobJYPz42WpPerblQ/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FacePaintingDesignsByDana" target="_blank"> <span style="color: #45818e;">Face-Painting Designs by Dana</span></a> braved rush hour traffic and was able to arrive half way through our event! She offered free face art and had some very happy customers! This is Caleb & Emma from our church. Let's just say Emma holds a very special place in Graham's heart right now. :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaJNMHtZSdYoy-akJvGSZKYNYjPg6m6M9mEJoGZbpfH-5nfx2TtLEun-L0Iy7BD79P2PawWeT44m8_Q_dN72Lgt0CKsvj9MvAgEKjd6v4ABC4vU2_9v2_KLsXrlDdutWVp_1pbRU3wA4/s1600/37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaJNMHtZSdYoy-akJvGSZKYNYjPg6m6M9mEJoGZbpfH-5nfx2TtLEun-L0Iy7BD79P2PawWeT44m8_Q_dN72Lgt0CKsvj9MvAgEKjd6v4ABC4vU2_9v2_KLsXrlDdutWVp_1pbRU3wA4/s400/37.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yeah, that guy in the background did lots of behind the scenes stuff. He's the best. :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JjjpCBKVEsyaI0RsqtCYRyNCN2ajkUzubbVsOZnAzRQWIrmN7ipTG4AM7Mxi-S9rEbsoSPzzJTV88oPBTUr80ZvdwdwYZLoUCZSSyiX77adG0xvNtvj5XPxqp1utu1J8Ywse0PL5WMs/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JjjpCBKVEsyaI0RsqtCYRyNCN2ajkUzubbVsOZnAzRQWIrmN7ipTG4AM7Mxi-S9rEbsoSPzzJTV88oPBTUr80ZvdwdwYZLoUCZSSyiX77adG0xvNtvj5XPxqp1utu1J8Ywse0PL5WMs/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our local councilwoman stopped by. As did Batman. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyAkp16N7qwRvHCSBzYiFzykR9vXr3wtCRJ2rFbJ5WQvwAvCVQTj58dC-HekuTSHlLpEeEe1Pr6vpypHs_rTR0hbCuidktShhUtR6bGROtSGler-BsHJ3mhpLgeNAdOntGszoxqzMCtE/s1600/32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyAkp16N7qwRvHCSBzYiFzykR9vXr3wtCRJ2rFbJ5WQvwAvCVQTj58dC-HekuTSHlLpEeEe1Pr6vpypHs_rTR0hbCuidktShhUtR6bGROtSGler-BsHJ3mhpLgeNAdOntGszoxqzMCtE/s400/32.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This girl snatched as many as {above pictured} cupcakes as possible. :) She's quick, let me tell ya. Thankful for the small army of church friends who helped keep watch over the 4 wee ones. We totally could not have survived with the help!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLIQIsYMdbi0W4d9TldmNZvEkjf-zZuh1CII8E-pdl1ayUhh2Anr2OfiB9N-NT_dDbP8-pkxeBZ2v7dZS_MDmzxuxHgAIs-dVyX29D98zEK7t-5HMExFXyifjGgvNJ_cGmg0r-l5fU7M/s1600/34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLIQIsYMdbi0W4d9TldmNZvEkjf-zZuh1CII8E-pdl1ayUhh2Anr2OfiB9N-NT_dDbP8-pkxeBZ2v7dZS_MDmzxuxHgAIs-dVyX29D98zEK7t-5HMExFXyifjGgvNJ_cGmg0r-l5fU7M/s320/34.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_1729075854">Have loved the opportunity this avenue has given me to meet people all around Pittsburgh. Having recently passed the 1,000 "likes" mark on facebook, it has grown to much more than I had imagined. I am currently turning down more opportunities than I am accepting, but such is this season of life! </span></div>
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Thankful to the over 200 guests that came out to join us, thankful to everyone who came together to make this happen, and thankful for God blessing us with perfect weather for a fantastic night!</div>
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<em><span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Happy 4 to the Pgh Momtourage!</span></em></div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-28081762002582623792013-08-12T11:30:00.000-04:002013-08-22T14:34:33.557-04:00How do you give them up?<div style="text-align: center;">
Regarding foster children this question is posed to me over & over again. </div>
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And then again. </div>
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Truly if I had a dollar for every time it was asked, G & E's college funds would be well funded. :) However, let me give you a peek into my sinful, selfish heart and let you in on something we have come to learn is harder than letting them go. <span style="font-size: large;">Loving well</span>. It can be hard to love children that are not your own, especially for an extended stay in your home. </div>
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The better question for foster parents is not <em>how do you give them up?</em> it is <em>how do you love them well?</em> </div>
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Keep in mind that many kids coming into the foster system are often at their worst. They have just been taken from all that's familiar. They present challenges because of various neglect or abuse they have experienced. They have often had very little structure or discipline in their life. Life is thrown into a transitional time of chaos for everyone. </div>
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It's hard to have a peaceful home and bring in kids for whom screaming at each other is normal par for the course. </div>
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It's hard to have a 2YO scream <em>no</em> in your face constantly. </div>
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It's hard to see stuff get broken & ruined in your house. <br />
It's hard to see your children get bitten multiple times. </div>
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It's hard to change hundreds of diapers that are not your child. Especially when they go from a "candy, coke & mcdonalds" diet to whole foods & produce. The diaper situation at transition time around here is often really, really bad. Yes, I have thrown up. :) </div>
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It's hard to have other kids put every.single.thing. in your house in their mouth. Especially as snot drains from their nose. </div>
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It's hard to have a child that screams at the top of their lungs constantly, for no apparent reason. </div>
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It's hard to have kids throw themselves on the floor & tantrum every.single.time you re-direct them. We tend to run a torturous house....kids aren't allowed to do things such as chew on cords, eat chalk, fall down stairs, or other things hazardous to their health. :) </div>
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There are challenges and it is hard. But I won't for a second say that every minute is bad or that we haven't experienced great benefits through this journey. Let me share some of the mini-miracles we get to share in. </div>
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The kids who couldn't identify basic fruits & vegetables. Yelling <em>green pepper, my favorite!</em> as being served. </div>
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A child who responds with a glassy stare at being tickled (appearing to not have experienced much touch), rolling with belly laughs at being tickled. </div>
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Every single child we have taken in sings "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007E52SBS/ref=dm_mu_dp_trk4" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">He set my feet on a Rock</span></a>!" at the top of their lungs. </div>
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The 11mo who comes to us with only a juice bottle, not used to formula or solids, eating & drinking (milk) normally within a few weeks. </div>
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The 2yo who had never used utensils eating oatmeal with a spoon. </div>
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Kids yelling "Bible time!" at 7pm. </div>
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Seeing your own kids give unselfishly of their toys, their clothes, & their parents. <br />
An almost nonverbal 2 year old when he comes, 6 weeks later, singing "<a href="http://sovereigngracemusic.bandcamp.com/album/grace-has-come-special-edition" target="_blank">His name is Jesus</a>!"</div>
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A child who screamed bloody murder at being left in a crib, cooing themselves to sleep. </div>
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Seeing their joy as they experience fun activities for the first time. </div>
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Seeing them being loved on so much by our church family. </div>
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Kids hugging and saying sorry to each other. </div>
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Another aspect that we completely did not expect was how we can be a blessing to their families. We've had contact with various family members who of course feel slight panic that children they love are in "the system". We are able to put their minds at ease at how the kids are responding, positive changes we are seeing, and share pictures. </div>
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We are still so new at this and learning every day. God has to (& does) fill us with grace each day. We fail in our love & patience sometimes. But we pray that He continually works in our hearts to love others as Christ loves us. </div>
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<em>The steadfast love of the <span class="small-caps">Lord</span> never ceases; </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Mal3.6/" original-title="[Mal. 3:6]" style="display: none;"><em>l</em></a><em>his mercies never come to an end;</em></div>
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<span class="verse-num inline" id="v25003023-1" style="display: none;"><em>23 </em></span><a alt="esv_01" class="va" href="http://www.blogger.com/null" rel="v25003023" style="display: none;"></a><em>they are new </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Jb7.18/" original-title="Job 7:18" style="display: none;"><em>m</em></a><em>every morning; </em><a class="cf" href="http://www.esvbible.org/Ps36.5/" original-title="Ps. 36:5" style="display: none;"><em>n</em></a><em>great is your faithfulness.</em></div>
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<span class="reveal-modal-title">Lamentations 3:22-23</span></div>
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Let me tell you, we have gone through some real grief as some of the children have left our home. It can be hard. Some kids harder than others (wink). But for anyone considering foster care, don't let <em>how do you give them up</em> be the factor you most dwell on. Spend lots of time praying on whether you can <em>love them well</em>. </div>
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kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-32014592841601949452013-07-14T17:34:00.000-04:002013-07-14T17:34:06.422-04:00Vacay: Stop #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So after a few days in North Carolina, we finished our way to the beach!</div>
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Graham sure enjoyed a big bed to himself + 4 pillows. </div>
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I think this is the last year we can squeeze Eden into a pack-n-play for travel!</div>
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Breakfast in bed + cartoons, definitely vacay!</div>
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G & E loved the beach & the hotel pool equally, I think!</div>
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Our hotel had an amazing continental breakfast included and we brought lunch food, so we only had to do dinners out. Found this cute café, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lulus-Cafe-Myrtle-Beach/151351954890017" target="_blank">Lulu's Café</a>, and all four of us loved our dinners, so we count that as a big hit. :) Of course with all the beach air, the kiddos had great appetites!</div>
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Out on the Boardwalk. </div>
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Back to the beach!</div>
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Boy did they love sitting in the surf!</div>
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One night we headed to <a href="http://www.broadwayatthebeach.com/" target="_blank">Broadway at the Beach</a>, definitely one of my favorite spots in MB! Conveniently, our hotel was across the street. There were so many family attractions from paddle boats to mini golf to kids rides to museums to restaurants to shopping + more. We let the kids each pick 2 rides to do. Our non-adventurous Graham chose to do this trampoline, which was very surprising. I think he was a little shocked by it, but had fun!</div>
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Graham practicing his photography skills. </div>
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Eden seeing if she can escape while she has the chance. :)</div>
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Balloon souvenirs passed on to us, a big hit! We were thankful our hotel had beautiful grounds and was a great spot for us. Did I mention we ended up adding another day at the end because it was just too short? :) </div>
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After a last night stop at Krispy Kreme, it was time to head for home. We drove through the mountains of WV for quite a while, they were beautiful! However, combined with dvd players, we had our first experience with kid car sickness. Both kids threw up once, a couple hours apart. So that was a little excitement, but other than that, it was smooth driving all the way home!</div>
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So thankful for God's provision of this time of respite, for providing a way to save money, and a beautiful time away as a family. </div>
<br />kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-54717476399060953452013-07-14T16:47:00.001-04:002013-07-14T16:47:06.862-04:00Vacay: Stop #1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ah......summer vacation. Is there anything better? We've been looking forward to our summer vacay all winter! The funny thing is, we just didn't know what it would be. But our plan was to take a week in June and we were keeping our eyes open for the right deal/place to come along. And it did. :) After booking a hotel for our friend's wedding we were offered 3 free nights in Myrtle Beach! Did we have to go to their time-share speech? Yes. Was it worth it for THREE free nights, yes! So we weren't sure if we would pay for some extra days to extend our week or how exactly it would work. But after Andrew's uncle passed away this spring, the family planned a small family reunion for June. So we ended up building that into our vacay week as it was on our way to Myrtle Beach anyways. So since I have way too many pics from both places, first post is for family weekend. </div>
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We were excited to have the 7 cousins together! Mama & Papa's house has such a great backyard, everyone enjoyed being outside most of each day. </div>
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The Texas Hughes got to come and Eden & Sarah became buddies. :) </div>
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The big cousins. </div>
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Allison/Eden/Emily</div>
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Jack/Graham</div>
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I started noticing that Graham likes to be the funny boy in pics. Oh dear... :)</div>
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I'm starting to wonder if she's getting her mommy's curls....</div>
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Big patio with a huge overhang....perfect for this slightly rainy day. </div>
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<br />kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-39737427963854149802013-05-28T21:19:00.000-04:002013-05-28T21:19:19.129-04:00Yep, we packed it all in and enjoyed every second. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were so looking forward to this past week, not only were our sweet friends getting married, but my sister was coming in to photograph the wedding! On Wednesday as we awaited her arrival, The Call, that seems to come quite often now (although we don't always end up getting new children) came. <em>Would you be able to take a 4 day old newborn and his 2 yr. old brother?</em> Ok! The call came at 3pm, they were dropped off at 4pm, I taught piano lessons from 6-7, and my sister and her friend arrived shortly after. That's a full day! I will say though, this transition with the kids was so much more seemless. We have learned our limitations and what works for our family, what the best sleeping arrangements are, and this time going from 2 to 4 was pretty smooth. We girls had mani/pedis scheduled for that evening (my awaited Mother's Day gift!) and out we went. Trying to explain to the girls that didn't speak English well what fostering was, was interesting. She kept saying, 5 days old? Where's your belly? Believe me, I would not be sitting there if I had just given birth. :) Wow, even though the baby being up every 2 hours was still exhausting, having a newborn without having the physical recovery side is wonderful. So on we marched with our week.....</div>
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Btw, most of these pics were taken by my sister or her assistant, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/honeycombphotography?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Honeycomb Photography</a>. </div>
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I don't know when my sister took these, but I had to laugh. For not having much hair, she gets some serious bedhead. :) And she's part monkey. </div>
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So Friday arrived and off our 2 bonus littles went to a court hearing where some family members were approved to take them in, so they didn't come back. Although we knew this was a possibility, it still tugs at your heart. Knowing their background, you just pray that those little ones will be watched over and taken care of in the best way. Although, it was providential as we looked to the weekend and knowing how much more interesting it was going to be juggling 4 kids instead of 2. Although the wedding was only an hour away, between rehearsal on friday and events on Saturday, we decided to make a short little getaway out of it. We haven't been away as a family since last fall, and there is something so, so refreshing about little respites, short as they may be. We're so glad we chose to stay over, we had so much fun and the kiddos sure adored staying in the hotel. </div>
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<em>Aunt Katie is always snapping away...... (lucky for us.)</em></div>
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Love the scarf from <span itemprop="name"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/BrownEyedGirlies?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Brown Eyed Girlies</a>. :) </span></div>
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Rehearsal dinner was in this "castle", Graham loved it. </div>
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Eden is entertaining herself by stacking creamers. </div>
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The hotel had an indoor playground (genius, since it was so cold for May!). But they were most excited about the pool. At 6:20am Saturday morning, Graham was standing at our bed asking to go swimming. Lucky for us, it didn't open till 9. And Madagascar was on. :)</div>
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Wedding time! So thankful the sun came out and it warmed up a little!</div>
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Yep, that's the 2 yr. old's back end. </div>
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So happy for this couple who has waited a long time for this day! Every detail was beautiful. </div>
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Fast forward to Sunday afternoon and it was camping time for the boys! Andrew & Graham have been very anxiously awaiting some warm weather to pull out the tent. We thought the end of May would be good, but it ended up being in the 30's - brrrr. Extra glad I wasn't there. :) But the boys had the best time. This girl doesn't love the idea of camping, particularly with a 2 yr. old in a tent. And I foresee this as something the boys get to do together for many years to come. </div>
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So while the boys camped, the girls hit the Strip District and North Shore and enjoyed some nice relaxing down time complete with movie and Pittsburgh Popcorn. </div>
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And then our fleeting time was gone..........we love our aunt katie and thankful she could be paid to be here - yippee! Thankful for many blessings of the week and time with our little family. </div>
<br />kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-59647189887492188502013-05-15T09:39:00.000-04:002013-05-15T09:40:22.788-04:00a few fun things.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So for many that kindly ask, yes, the house is very, very quiet! I've almost reached the point where I can talk about the kids without crying. Almost. It's been 2 weeks today since they left, but in many ways almost seems like it was much longer. It has been nice to get back into our normal routine, when the kiddos came, most of life came to a standstill and our regular activities weren't an option. I managed to keep the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pghmomtourage?ref=hl" target="_blank">Pgh Momtourage</a> running, but it was definitely the bare minimum. :) Through some marketing events for the Momtourage, we recently got to preview some fun things happening in Pittsburgh! </div>
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Enter: Sky Zone. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Sky Zone is the original trampoline park and the one place where it is totally acceptable to have bouncing-off-the-walls fun! Our trampoline park offers open jump, a Foam Zone, 3-D Dodgeball (when available) and the SkySlam basketball court.</em> <span style="font-size: small;">My kids loved it and I'm telling ya, it was a serious work-out! I played a game of dodgeball with some cameramen & reporters who were there as well, and we were all dying after about 10 minutes. :)</span></span></div>
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The foam pit was fun, it's actually best for little kids. It was quite funny to see a reporter get stuck in there and seriously couldn't get out for about 10 minutes. At least I thought it was funny. :) It also produced some awesome hair for G!</div>
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Dodgeball/Basketball</div>
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And for local friends, there are a few more days to enter my giveaway for free jumping passes! Go <a href="http://momspotpgh.blogspot.com/2013/05/sky-zone-indoor-trampoline-park.html" target="_blank">here</a> to enter. </div>
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We also have the Pittsburgh International Children's Festival happening here this week. The week includes an incredible line-up of Petting Zoo, Crafts, Face Painting, Al Mazing Magic show, Children's Theatre, Live Music, Weird Eric Magic show, Interactive Musical, Roving Art Cart + so much more. But a big attraction will be the exciting interactive Art Exhibit ~ Exxopolis ~ lit only by the sun! We got to walk through it before it was open to the public and G & E loved it. See more info about the Children's Festival <a href="http://momspotpgh.blogspot.com/2013/05/pittsburgh-international-childrens.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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We took a little walk after to a favorite dinosaur (whose neck gear randomly changes, it was pink tuille today!). They decided to "clean" him with dandelions, hope he enjoyed his bath! </div>
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I love the University of Pitt campus/Schenley Plaza (where the Festival will be held), and such a beautiful time of year with fresh leaves! The kids also enjoyed a noisemaker booth, that should be fun for hundreds of kids all week. :) </div>
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<br />kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-78287306641152379342013-04-23T14:30:00.001-04:002013-04-23T14:30:57.995-04:00Fun places + tireless Grandmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Never fear....the super grandmas are here! Seriously, they were amazing. My grandma did dishes non-stop, they folded laundry, fed babies, chased kiddos at all sorts of activities, bought us groceries, dinner, lunches & entertainment, and played for hours. What a blessing it was to have them here, I know they left exhausted! But they claimed they loved it, so I will choose to believe them. :) So thankful we had a few days of warm weather. </div>
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<em>Walking on the North Shore.</em></div>
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I happen to be doing a promo for the Barry Manilow concert and had tickets for a night they were here. We had a fun girls night out! And super daddy managed to put all 5 down for bed, extra ice cream for him. :) </div>
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I was also doing a promo for a local place, Jump!Zone, which has tons of amazing bounce things & slides. Let's just say Eden was doing the tall slides before Graham was. :)</div>
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And then it was on to the Grandmas treat, a favorite (especially of my mom) - the Zoo! It was cheaper to buy a one year membership than to pay for a day's admission for all of us. Lucky day for us, and some future happy kiddos as well!</div>
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Anyone who knows Eden, knows getting one of these backpacks was inevitable. (i.e. losing her at church last Sunday with the back door open. We should really keep it on at all times. :) She was thankfully found in a bathroom, happily washing her hands. Crazy girl.) N wanted to keep track of her for a while. This was right before she fell and got a fat lip on a rock. She makes it her goal to bleed once a day, I think. </div>
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My grandma spent hours pushing the stroller! And can I just say...our baby girl spent about 5 hours riding in the stroller without a single peep. She is seriously the best baby ever. The plan was for her to nap. Which she did not. But smile & coo & ride contentedly? I'll take it. :)</div>
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Typical of Eden....walking up to something and immediately poking it in the eye. Glad he was made of metal. :) And the slides....she watches what kids twice her size are doing and then imitates. They had so much fun on these slides, went down on their bellies again & again!</div>
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Finishing the day with some dippin' dots. What a beautiful day we had!</div>
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Our last night we celebrated my mom's birthday coming up in a few days...which is not 38 (wink, wink.) My mom was worried about her hair for the pic, but I said I'm already in my pj's anyways! Grandma decided we were going for the "we just chased 5 kids around all day" look. </div>
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We packed a lot into a few days, but so thankful for the respite this was for me during a busy season. </div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-19344881805147752512013-04-03T10:45:00.000-04:002013-04-03T10:45:43.869-04:00Happy Easter & a visit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a great (if not slightly chaotic) Easter. These little ones have just gobbled up hearing the story of Good Friday & Easter. We have been reading from<a href="https://positiveaction.org/product-group-gods-love-storybook" target="_blank"> this book</a> (if your Jesus Story Book Bible has been given a workout, I recommend this one!) Andrew's parents had already been planning to come for Easter, so we're thankful they still braved the crazyness. :) It was great to have some extra hands around! </div>
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K & E LOVED getting dressed up for Easter. (little one was sleeping.)</div>
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Target Dollar Spot Rocks. </div>
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K loved wearing the red one and now asks to wear it every day. </div>
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G wasn't quite as excited about it. :) </div>
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I wish I could capture the excitement of getting Easter baskets brought by Mama & Papa. It was also a huge blessing for our visiting little ones to have some things to call their "own". </div>
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Some Outlet finds by mommy made this little girl quite happy for new shades & jewelry!</div>
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On Monday, our extra littles had a court hearing and it was a nice little break & outing to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. </div>
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They love all the dinosaurs!</div>
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Saying goodbye to Mama & Papa on Wednesday</div>
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I know many of you are wondering about our little visitors and hopefully I will have some time to write about our little life change soon. They are 5, almost 3, and 8.5 months. It looks like they will be with us for about 30 days. It's definitely turned our house upside down! The demands from 5 under 5 can definitely feel overwhelming, especially at meal time! But how amazing to see simple changes take place so fast. They adapted so well & so quickly to our routine & schedule. Last night was the first night baby A slept 7-7! She also naps for about 2 hours both morning & afternoon. What a blessing to have a good sleeper, makes me wonder if she had been on a good routine or if she just was tired and adjusted quickly. We've had throw up, diarrhea, been up multiple times each night, untold laundry, learning to get along with extra siblings (at almost same ages), and introducing them to completely new foods. Baby carrots & fresh pineapple? Initial reaction: EWWWWW. After tasting: YUM! One of our biggest challenges has been with Eden pushing or hitting all.day.long. She's feeling more than a little territorial. But wow, what a whirlwind it's been and amazing experience. We are so grateful for having a small part in these little ones lives. People have been so kind in offering meals, assistance, items to borrow, and just love, care & notes of encouragement. We are so thankful. </div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-88590508253063853412013-03-26T14:11:00.000-04:002013-03-26T14:11:02.454-04:00A bittersweet goodbye<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is my friend, Sarah. Anyone that knows her will tell you she is sweetest person you will ever meet. If you ask her about her summer plans, she won't tell about a planned trip to the beach or going to see family. Instead you might hear of the life-changing event of their family as they prepare to go across the world to a place so opposite of the United States that it's hard to comprehend. This week people are tramping in & out of their house as most of their earthly belongings are given away or sold for a meager price. They are currently figuring out how to fit everything they own for a family of five into 10 suitcases. 10. This includes books, toys, clothes, homeschool material, shoes, technology.....can you imagine, at this moment, pairing your life down to 10 suitcases? And they do it with joy, love, & no regrets. We will miss their family so much. But we are filled with joy with them as this time that they have been preparing for so long, has finally arrived. </div>
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It was such a sweet time as a few friends gathered to share our love with Sarah and pray over every aspect of their upcoming journey. </div>
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Our kids love their kids and it's hard for them to say goodbye as well. We were grateful to share in one last birthday party - and what fun the laser bowling was! It was Eden's first time bowling and she got a spare on her first turn. :) Those little ramps are so genius. </div>
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For Valentine's Day, Andrew's gift to me was a "day away". I hadn't had a chance yet to take the time away, but it ended up that Sarah and Stacy (our pastor's wife) & I were able to plan some time away together. We got pedicures, had lunch, and shopped till we dropped at the Outlets. I was so thankful to share my day out with these 2 friends! Followed by a baby shower in the evening, I was gone from 9:30am-11pm! Andrew reminded me when I got home that my coupon was for 9-5. <em>Oops.</em> :) Thankful for his good care of the kiddos, even though sleep schedules were interesting that day.<em> a-hem.</em> </div>
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While mommy's away....the kiddos play........ </div>
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I <em>really</em> don't recall french frys & hot dogs being in the agenda. </div>
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We got 6 inches of snow on March 25th. Anyone jealous??? Anyone???</div>
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spring will come....spring will come.....</div>
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And that's my 3 crazies. </div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-83851912098007214302013-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:002013-02-22T08:00:07.688-05:00Snowman Par-tay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know I'm super lucky that so far I only have to plan one birthday party a year! Graham & I had fun looking back through his previous parties last week. Even though he doesn't remember year 1 & 2, he still thought they were pretty cool! This year, the right theme just wasn't coming to me...and then out of no where....it was snowmen! It was a fun theme, and gracious, so, so easy! You can do a lot with cotton balls & marshmallows. :) This was probably the easiest & lowest stress birthday we've done! Since we don't have family nearby, (although we were SO excited that aunt katie flew in for the weekend), Eden got her 2 friends, and Graham had 4 friends. It's so convenient that 2 of Graham's friends have little sisters. :) We were excited to include some of our neighbors this year who Graham plays with outside all the time. And his buddy Zephyr (from our Momtourage group), they've shared each birthday together since they were 1! </div>
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What to do with leftover invitations that you'll never use again? </div>
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Make a welcome banner!</div>
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I will have to share my sweet potato cupcake recipe very soon...so yummy!</div>
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The kiddos had pb&j snowmen and the adults had sloppy joes. </div>
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We had just enough snow to go sledding in the backyard - love being able to do an outdoor activity, even in February! And then they wrapped Andrew in TP like a snowman. </div>
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*Note to self: expect that using a marshmallow centerpiece will result in it being half eaten. :)</div>
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A fun day and thankful for the friends that made it special!</div>
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{and thanks to Katie for the pretty pics!}</div>
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kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-87514575723824709862013-02-18T07:00:00.000-05:002013-02-18T09:18:02.504-05:00Our little one is 2. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last Sunday, February 10 was Eden's 2nd birthday. We see her leaving babyhood behind and becoming a strong, independent little toddler. Emphasis on <em>I like to do things my way</em>. :) She is spunky, feisty, and into everything, but cracks you up in a second with her hilarious faces & goofy charms. The other day I was getting frustrated because she was touching everything! And as I began to scold her, she broke out in this crazy dance. I could only laugh. I think God knew I needed that moment. :) I love to hear her sing-song words <em>o-kay</em>, (th)<em>kank-you</em>, <em>mom-meeee?</em></div>
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I wish I could capture all her funny faces!</div>
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She is chattering more & more these days. She's always asking where "Gray"(ham) is. She has a naughty streak just for fun....discipline doesn't seem to faze her over it. I guess all we do is stay consistent and pray for patience and wisdom. :) All day she asks when we can go <em>buh-bye</em>. Apparently our house is a little dull? She loves going to church. Her main passions in life right now are coloring (lolor, lolor!) and reading books. I try to hold to the rule that anytime my kiddos ask me to read to them, I will stop and read. She likes this rule a lot. :) Her fave book is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Moo-Baa-La/dp/067144901X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1360975122&sr=8-1&keywords=moo%2C+baa%2C+lalala" target="_blank">Moo, Baa, La La La</a> and it's cute to watch her sit and read it, she seriously has it memorized. She loves to copy Graham. She eats very tiny amounts most meals. Like Graham, she would prefer to exist on only fruits & vegetables. Thanks to her big brother she has picked up the word "ew" a whole year sooner than he did. :) And boy does this girl have a sweet tooth! I don't think candy or ice cream was in Graham's vocab until he was about 3. She brings up one of them at least once a day. And most days is disappointed. :) She loves to sing and we love to listen to her funny little songs. We discovered a few months ago that going to sleep with music playing helped her stay in her bed. And now she sings herself to sleep. </div>
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She loves to get a blanket and snuggle. She is our snugglebug! </div>
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It is very difficult to get her to play. Seems like she spent an awful lot of the last year fussing because she was bored! But slowly she is starting to play a little more on her own and with G as well. Happy day! She loves playing games on my phone...however it only takes about 30 seconds for her to hit a button that backs her out. :-/ Graham is teaching her how to play angry birds. And it cracks me up to hear a barely 2 year old say<em> angry birds</em>! The TV is very rarely on when she is awake, so the few times I would have liked for her to sit and watch something, she loses interest after about 2 minutes. I guess that's not a bad thing, but I wouldn't mind having that option occasionally. :)</div>
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She loves her football shirt. :) And love, loves her daddy. </div>
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She finally has enough hair to put in a ponytail, but her brother still has her beat. :)</div>
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Some pics snapped by Aunt Katie at her birthday party!<br />
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<em>Keepin' it real.</em> </div>
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<em>We love you Eden Hope and are so thankful God chose to put you in our family</em>!</div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-64735446264815088522013-02-04T07:00:00.000-05:002013-02-04T07:00:00.675-05:00Happy four. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whether he is.................</div>
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doing flips</div>
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loving his game time with mommy & daddy after Eden goes to bed</div>
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Super Owl</div>
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learning to play piano</div>
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loving his sister</div>
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(opposite moments happen as well, but he is a good big brother)</div>
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reporting for duty & making a lot of arrests</div>
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playing</div>
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drawing</div>
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dressing like dad</div>
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(he always puts on a tie....and when was the last time Andrew wore a tie?!)</div>
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asking every day when "his brother" is going to come share his bunkbed</div>
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or LOVING the snow</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7LCrQdnfXBI0SUiyPb2oSCmVzaD7uX_nnDJG3t9otRe0bNyzlfAVhj9rrrULcrGvs-JR2ZAE45UP3TN4JzP6rWRoxsAgk4mQWlgYnf8lYA-iOWodwdrqL-Mu35eQ9YiZ1d8mbYHFp18/s1600/DSCN9896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7LCrQdnfXBI0SUiyPb2oSCmVzaD7uX_nnDJG3t9otRe0bNyzlfAVhj9rrrULcrGvs-JR2ZAE45UP3TN4JzP6rWRoxsAgk4mQWlgYnf8lYA-iOWodwdrqL-Mu35eQ9YiZ1d8mbYHFp18/s320/DSCN9896.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
this boy always manages to stay busy! We have very few dull moments since this one joined our family. <br />
<br />
Funnies........<br />
*Dad said I couldn't have gum for the rest of my life. <br />
<br />
*told his friend, "You need to be patient. Only the Lord can help you with that." Mmmm, he is occasionally listening. :) <br />
<br />
*told me "let's play the rhyming game, I'll give you a word and you tell me a word that rhymes. Here's your word: <strong>Albuquerque.</strong>" Say what??<br />
<br />
Here's his list of birthday questions for this year:<br />
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">1. What is
your favorite color? <span style="color: #45818e;">blue & black and other colors that are bright</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2. What is your favorite toy? <span style="color: #45818e;">Buzz Lightyear</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">3. What is
your favorite fruit? <span style="color: #45818e;">every kind</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4. What is your favorite tv show? <span style="color: #45818e;">Dumbo</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">5. What is
your favorite thing to eat for lunch? <span style="color: #45818e;">ham & cheese sandwich</span> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">6. What is
your favorite outfit? <span style="color: #45818e;">Big Ben shirt</span> (go Steelers!)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">7. What is
your favorite game? <span style="color: #45818e;">Candyland</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">8. What is
your favorite snack? <span style="color: #45818e;">graham crackers</span> (ironic.)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">9. What is
your favorite animal? <span style="color: #45818e;">Barf Boo.</span> (his dog and I don't know how this name came about)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">10. What
is your favorite song? <span style="color: #45818e;">b-i-b-l-e</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">11. What
is your favorite book? <span style="color: #45818e;">Curious George</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">12. Who is
your best friend? <span style="color: #45818e;">Avalon</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">13. What
is your favorite cereal? <span style="color: #45818e;">granola & yogurt</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">14. What
is your favorite thing to do outside? <span style="color: #45818e;">play in the backyard</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">15. What
is your favorite drink? <span style="color: #45818e;">juice</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">16. What
is your favorite holiday? <span style="color: #45818e;">Halloween</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">17. What
do you like to take to bed with you at night? <span style="color: #45818e;">his Bee<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">18. What
is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? <span style="color: #45818e;">granola & yogurt</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">19. What
do you want for dinner on your birthday? <span style="color: #45818e;">ham & cheese sandwich and no vegetables.</span> Although he eats his veggies very well, we may be able to comply for one meal. :)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #211922; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">20. What
do you want to be when you grow up? <span style="color: #45818e;">a dad </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<em>We love you Graham Owen, you make us laugh every day and we love seeing you grow & learn. Happy Four!</em> </div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-51102461645302728702013-01-30T15:26:00.002-05:002013-01-30T15:26:41.375-05:00happy birthday.<div style="text-align: center;">
Birthday mania has begun....as in 3 birthdays in 12 days! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Andrew's day was pretty low-key. I and the kiddos have been battling sickness for about 2 weeks. It appeared to have cleared up for the weekend and then Monday we all got hit hard again. So beside not feeling well, we've both been up a lot at night with Eden who sleeps terrible when she's not feeling well. :-/ </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so, so thankful I had made a lasagna & breadsticks last week to take to a family with a new baby and said baby had not arrived yet (although ironically, the baby was born on his birthday!), so I was able to pop his favorite meal right out of the freezer. I am sure God knew I was going to need that for this day. :) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But we managed to make <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/recipefinder/deep-dark-chocolate-cake-desserts" target="_blank">Deep Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cake</a> with a yummy <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/recipefinder/quick-chocolate-buttercream-frosting-recipes" target="_blank">Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting.</a> Although the inside did not look exactly like the picture. Pinterest shocker, I know. :) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Graham's card says, Dad, You the best. You are special. I love you. Happy Birthday to you. And he signed all our names. :) Graham & Eden LOVE their daddy. As soon as Eden hears a key in the turn she starts squealing "daddy!" G's favorite thing is to go somewhere with daddy. Daddys have a big responsibility being in the hero category. The post-dinner nap lasted about 30 seconds. I think Andrew would have preferred longer. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2ry_gtri_UAi1zW8OJaTA1iSnk4EGOpbDvoweUVT-Ilgah6cQ-9-YcJ4gn0ERYviLmfjgUXI_39fbKJx_Yhtqzr2Jue9CWG61Vb1_9u_7ubBkCAmUE8RjLyYsTtsldG1KZTs6c4fT5I/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2ry_gtri_UAi1zW8OJaTA1iSnk4EGOpbDvoweUVT-Ilgah6cQ-9-YcJ4gn0ERYviLmfjgUXI_39fbKJx_Yhtqzr2Jue9CWG61Vb1_9u_7ubBkCAmUE8RjLyYsTtsldG1KZTs6c4fT5I/s400/PicMonkey+Collage4.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<em>Happy birthday. To you.</em> </div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-35101465508439846392013-01-28T08:21:00.002-05:002013-01-28T08:21:40.510-05:00I'm a Big Girl now. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiH-wKfsrIXDA3hjUCPE0vZ6J5IDNyxGNcYrLn81ULe36xFgjjSq6OKnG0lFRIt1FXU5ivVGL-U9w61FbRnitnQ-Nt8g0q6nzNWL-Re_1dFV-CgmTT9KtSYvwWPfM1RtQee4tsolDmzMk/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiH-wKfsrIXDA3hjUCPE0vZ6J5IDNyxGNcYrLn81ULe36xFgjjSq6OKnG0lFRIt1FXU5ivVGL-U9w61FbRnitnQ-Nt8g0q6nzNWL-Re_1dFV-CgmTT9KtSYvwWPfM1RtQee4tsolDmzMk/s400/2.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
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Well, they say girls are easier to potty-train than boys, but let me tell you, I think I got pretty lucky here. For every mom that says "I just used this sticker chart, sang this song, and fed a few m&m's and bam: potty-trained" you have 10 moms that have pulled their hair out for months, done loads upon loads of laundry, and cleaned up more pee than they want to see in their lifetime. So when people ask me about Eden's potty-training I am very clear: I had little to do with it. I got really lucky. :) The thing that most surprises me is that she comes and tells me when she has to go. I still often have to force Graham away from what he's doing sometimes to take a potty break. </div>
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When kiddos train before 2, did you know it's really hard to find underwear that fits? At first she was swimming in 2t/3t, but that's the smallest I could find. I actually ended up using a lot of those little diaper cover pieces that often come with little dresses. If at 12 months they fit over a diaper, at 18 months they fit a bum perfectly. :) I also hate kids stuff with cartoon characters on it...finding underwear without that? Good luck! But Old Navy came through for me. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGjvECZgTQqq2UEaO3kK2Uf9WgRXbI99cEpnNrjFygvQfp3AmmR81-KNHjSJlzeJ-pGdIMGM7ZNknMGUU9Ly5HwvHCLsoOL71dpEHYfstkHj8teeVa2Zo2NzBpXnFNSj1d8obpK55yfqc/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGjvECZgTQqq2UEaO3kK2Uf9WgRXbI99cEpnNrjFygvQfp3AmmR81-KNHjSJlzeJ-pGdIMGM7ZNknMGUU9Ly5HwvHCLsoOL71dpEHYfstkHj8teeVa2Zo2NzBpXnFNSj1d8obpK55yfqc/s320/7.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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At 15 months she started asking to go in the potty and I would sit her on it and she would go. What? Half the battle right there. At 18 months we gave it an offical full-time try, but ultimately decided she wasn't quite ready. At 22 months she decided she hated wearing diapers, so it was definitely either train or start cleaning up a lot. She has had very few accidents and even mostly stays dry during naps and overnight. Hello polar opposite of Graham. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Seriously, it's like magic. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used no sticker charts, candy or songs. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We cheer when she goes potty. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yay for simple motivations. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's really cute at 11pm when she goes and starts half-heartedly clapping and saying yayyyyy........yawn. :) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Took a few weeks to get #2 in the potty, but she seems to be getting more consistent. I'm still keeping her in pull-ups for now when we're out & about till we're 100% in that area. The only down-side: the nights. Graham has yet to stay dry at night and doesn't seem to care to that much. Eden, not so much. So she's been waking up 2 or 3 times a night for the last few weeks. Really not fun. Can you just pee in your diaper, really? :) <br />
After almost 4 years of cloth diapering, I am beyond excited to have a break. I think CD moms are twice as excited when their kids potty train. :) Although, we could get a baby in the next few months, but for now I'll enjoy it!<br />
<em>Good job, big girl! (and thank you very, very much.) </em><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3FZg4gP2EuN54lN6wmjJj11CV5JIVyQ64AbJ4gJkptpr4RZtI23Rc_N_4es2tti8I8xBvNBVkOPwuF6akPw0jhebCkNaJc42JrM_UJHwBh96i6vwbazVuvo1ywBxOHqpTlhhhHI8YjY/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3FZg4gP2EuN54lN6wmjJj11CV5JIVyQ64AbJ4gJkptpr4RZtI23Rc_N_4es2tti8I8xBvNBVkOPwuF6akPw0jhebCkNaJc42JrM_UJHwBh96i6vwbazVuvo1ywBxOHqpTlhhhHI8YjY/s640/1.jpg" width="392" /></a><br />
</div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-38982864079439843152013-01-14T07:45:00.000-05:002013-01-14T07:45:12.317-05:00The transition<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, this seems to be old news now, in the busyness of the holidays I didn't have time to stop and write about it. But most of you know that as of the beginning of December, Andrew began full-time at Three Rivers Grace Church as Director for Media, Music & Outreach. Ever since we began our seminary journey 7.5 years ago, this has been the desire of our heart to work full-time in church ministry if the Lord would open the doors. God led us on a different path than we would have anticipated, but knowing that "all things work together for good to those who love God", we fully trust in His sovereignty and are grateful for the different opportunities we have experienced along the way. Even knowing many of our friends from seminary days are still in those journeying days, waiting with full anticipation this transition as well, we know that God in his perfect timing has the perfect scenario already in place and can't wait to rejoice with you as God reveals that plan! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So what does Andrew do? Well, his job decription was approximately a page long and ended with something like "and whatever else comes up....." :) He will continue as he was in his part-time role to oversee the worship services each week - planning the services & music, coordinating & leading the worship team, scheduling monthly music team practices, overseeing purchases & planning for the AV team, and whatever else might go into a Sunday service. He also is overseeing a new church directory, involved in helping launch our new church website, re-designed the church bulletin and writes it each week, & re-worked the church's phone number (which now goes to his phone). If you are a small church where the church number is going directly to the pastor or staff member, you should definitely check out what he did with a google number! It is a neutral number that can be routed to any different number at any time, i.e. the pastor goes on vacation and so it can go directly to someone else. And there's lots of other amazing features - technology is so great!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are some the other thing he's been involved with this month:</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
meeting about an outreach concert in our building with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MonoCcord?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">MonoCcord</a></div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
meeting a member to walk, pray, & talk with people throughout our church neighborhood</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
city meeting to talk about using our church as one of the free food programs in the summer</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
meeting a member of the International Mission Board about our friends from church that are getting ready to go to the Middle East</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Human Trafficking awareness meeting at Heinz Field (Steelers stadium)</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
cleaning & organizing rooms in our church</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
coodinating upcoming events at our church where ministries are coming in to share about victims of exploitation, crisis pregnancy centers & foster care. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
running the sound booth for weddings, both in January & February. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
6am Tuesday morning, men meet for prayer at Starbucks every week</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
He rotates with teaching our twice a month community group</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
He's also so excited to go with our pastor to the Desiring God Pastor's Conference in Mpls. next month. His work schedule has rarely allowed him to go to conferences the past years and now the fact that they are part of his work is an unbelievable blessing. </div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So you can probably get a sense that he has plenty to occupy his time. :) He is loving it and loves being involved in such a wide variety of tasks. Because he loves what he is doing so much, at times I have to be sure he is not working 70 hours a week. :) He is using our home office in the basement as his home base. It's worked out pretty well because he is well out of sight of the kiddos, but he can still come up for lunch or snacks. :) The flexibility has been amazing. The other day we were both able to go to see Sesame Street Live with the kiddos on a weekday morning (we had received free tickets). We've also had greater flexibility in finishing our fostering requirements and getting all those appts. done. {We are excited that all we have left is our home study to be fully certified!}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The one thing that has been the most challenging to adjust to is the what can feel like the random chaos of his schedule. He has so many meetings this month which may range from a 6am Saturday elders meeting to meeting someone for coffee at 8pm at night. So it feels slightly unpredictable right now and will definitely take a few months (at least!) to adjust to how everything will be. We've also always been able to get along on one car since we've moved to Pittsburgh as Andrew has always been able to take the bus to work. But right now he is jetting all over the city suddenly and this mama has been feeling a little housebound! :) So we may have to think about adding a 2nd car here in the future. But we are so thankful at how God opened this opportunity and love serving in whatever capacity we can at our church. We are excited to see how our church is growing and the greater capacities of ministries where doors are opening up. </div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-47954250954109552142013-01-03T09:11:00.000-05:002013-01-03T09:11:07.203-05:00Gushing blood is never good. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Particularly when mommy is not home and faint-at-the-sight-of-blood daddy is on duty. Particularly when mommy's phone is in her bag in the grocery cart and she doesn't notice she missed 4 calls till 45 minutes later. </div>
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Anyone that has seen our little monkey walk up & down stairs without holding on to anything (since she was 18 months), leap from one thing to the next, scramble up to the top of big brother's new bunk bed, or a myriad of other hold your breath stunts knows a trip to the E.R. was inevitable. This one apparently involved standing on a child chair that tipped over and landed the back of her head of the corner of the cabinet. Poor Andrew. Poor Graham. Andrew is trying to be calm for Graham but these things really do freak him out. He accidentally let out the word ambulance in one of his frantic messages to me and then I hear Graham start wailing and saying, "my sister, my sister!" It was so sweet how distraught he was for her. He was a big helper to daddy fetching phones, wipes, & ice packs, and then stroking her back for a long time. </div>
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So mommy finally arrives home and Eden & I head to Urgent Care. I was so dreading the drama of when Graham got stitches on his eye around this age. But they put a topical numbing cream on it and one quick staple and she didn't even cry. Luckily, mommy had a candy cane in her purse and she managed to wrap the male nurse around her finger and came away with about 20 stickers. :) So other than a 3 hours late bedtime, she doesn't seem any worse for wear and slept soundly all night. </div>
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<br />kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-6204160650664800652012-12-10T13:39:00.001-05:002012-12-10T13:39:35.673-05:00Catching up....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This little 'ole blogspot has been sorely neglected. A lot of crazyness happening lately. Momtourage consumes most of my spare computer time minutes. This month I got to do promos for University of Pittsburgh basketball, Harlem Globetrotters, & NCAA hockey tournament. It was the sports month apparently! Because I haven't had the time to go to all these events, I am able to pass extra tickets on to friends. It's so fun to see faces light up - who gets free tickets to events?! I love that part of my job!</div>
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We are going to see Harlem Globetrotters the day after Christmas. We got to go last year and Graham loved it. </div>
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My parents came for 5 days right after Thanksgiving. We had a great time with them and they helped decorate = double bonus!</div>
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I have found that a countdown calendar is non-negotiable for this stage of life. :) We turn around a number each day. It's been awesome for Graham to know: on this date we're going on an airplane, on this date Mama & Papa come, on this date we go to your cousins and THIS date is Christmas! </div>
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We did get a brief dusting....the kids loved it!</div>
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A snowman marshmallow + hot chocolate is a perfect December tree-decorating kind of night. </div>
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Downtown to see the Christmas sights. I realized later, she couldn't hold her cracker b/c of her mittens and basically just knawed it down. I guess where there's a will, there's a way!</div>
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Andrew, Grandpa, Graham</div>
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Gingerbread spectacular</div>
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Yes, I will take that last drop of Izzy!</div>
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Best appliance ever. Happy birthday to me. Love, Mom & Dad. Love. </div>
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Many have asked where we are in our foster care process. Still in the middle of paperwork! However, we see the light at the end of the tunnel! We have one document to finalize and then have to go somewhere to be fingerprinted and have our home study....but we are close. </div>
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Parenting has been extremely challenging the past few months. I loved<a href="http://jsheijermans.blogspot.com/2012/12/nothing-can-prepare-you.html" target="_blank"> this post</a> by my friend, Sue. This was also a timely reminder. </div>
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3 Christmas parties in 8 days? Check. </div>
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An unexpected gift arrived for travel funds, so slightly last minute, I am flying with Graham & Eden to this winter wonderland! First time flying with 2 kiddos alone. Wish me luck! </div>
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We are really enjoying <a href="http://www.thegoodbook.com/christian-living/christmas/gifts-for-children/christmas-opened-up" target="_blank">this Advent calendar</a> this year. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Recommended by Girltalk). </span></div>
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Love that it has a little book that comes with it and with each window to open, it has a short story & activity that is perfect for young ones. </div>
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Do not let anything steal your joy this Christmas season!</div>
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kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-2449941906240699622012-11-30T15:17:00.000-05:002012-11-30T15:17:49.060-05:00Gettin' crafty {a rare sighting}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In the spirit of all things red & pepperminty, I decided to try this little beauty I saw pass by on Pinterest. Yep, I've now officially used a glue gun for the 2nd time in my life. And only suffered very minor burns. :) Graham was very helpful in unwrapping all the peppermints and we mostly just tried to keep Eden from eating up our supplies. </div>
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If peppermint soothes an upset stomach as they say, both kiddos should be set for a while. (wink.)</div>
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If was surprisingly easy. And if I'm saying that, you know it was. :) Peppermints & red hots came from the Dollar Store, so in all this little project was under $10. </div>
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Go <a href="http://myblessedlife.net/2010/12/peppermint-wreath-tutorial.html" target="_blank">here</a> to see the original (just no comparing now!)</div>
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kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-19965231681371167362012-11-19T09:12:00.000-05:002012-11-19T09:12:36.826-05:00a boy and his hero<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm sure it's probably cliche' to say every little boy's hero is their daddy. But we have certainly seen the hero worship kick into high gear recently. Every day last week, Graham wanted to dress like daddy. His outfit of choice was: a t-shirt with a button-down shirt over it, jeans, and casual dress shoes. Sometimes he'd add a scarf draped around his neck and if he was pretending to be dad leaving for work, he'd add some head gear. </div>
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Pretty good mimic, I'd say. :)</div>
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Last night at the table G says, Dad, I just love copying you. </div>
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Before bed, Andrew says to him, Love you bro-dog. </div>
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Graham says, Love you bro-cat. </div>
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Occasionally we'd ask him what he wanted to be when he grew up just to see if he said anything funny. Up to this point he has insisted he wants to be nothing but a little boy so he can play with his toys. I hope he stays in that moment!</div>
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But recently, he has determined exactly what he wants to be: a daddy. </div>
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I hope and pray he grows up to be the man & daddy that his daddy is to him. </div>
kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2976610240077706158.post-87948170850968131582012-11-15T14:25:00.001-05:002012-11-15T14:25:33.313-05:00Aunt Katie's visit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Always so, so happy to have my sweet sister here! We had a really sad week for weather due to Sandy, it rained every day. And she specifically came during Halloween week and both our Momtourage event & other Halloween events were all post-poned till after she left. So that was sad, but we were so thankful to be warm, safe & dry when many were facing the devastation of the storm. So we can only give thanks. </div>
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Katie basically follows us around with a camera, so this is more like a sneak peak into our days. :)</div>
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know anything about that pile of dishes left behind you on the floor?</div>
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who, me?</div>
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apparently it was a red & yellow kind of day. </div>
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Eden gives the best hugs & snuggles</div>
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ewwww.</div>
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This is how our baking happens. Graham is helping roll out pizza crust and Eden is eating something out of the bowl. :)</div>
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she loves to jump!</div>
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ready for bed after bathtime</div>
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chees-ers</div>
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using nurse Katie's fun equipment</div>
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getting my ears checked. Thankfully, I was deemed healthy. </div>
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still in training, obviously. :)</div>
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Any moms ever get to eat their full snack?</div>
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The vultures sweep in! I think I salvaged about 3 of my own apple slices. </div>
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watching his first 3D movie from the library. Which was 13 minutes long. </div>
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Who makes a 13 minute movie?!</div>
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I happened to be doing a promo for the circus the week she was here, so yay! Free circus tickets!</div>
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Thankfully they are still good with eating an apple & banana for snack when the snow cones & cotton candy are passing by. I'm sure my days are numbered. :)</div>
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The sweetest shot. </div>
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She & Graham were having a tea party and she stopped to pray over it. </div>
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Earnestly. :)</div>
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Graham got this snack for him & daddy - milk in the mug and cheeries in the bowls. :)<br />
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Graham helping in a demo at The Science Center. </div>
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Graham participating....Eden staring awkwardly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T_0uJsWlGipniZJkwM1zGmtHsVLuHbKE8OWS31AeqXuibwRcThmZX7-CWyh3ZnvD7ZuMuY1i_R91p7LPTNJ4zisEG_B480V4qtDHSUDuqXFF51564jaWwh26OKYFs3X-CeabdPqobiw/s1600/IMG_7537+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T_0uJsWlGipniZJkwM1zGmtHsVLuHbKE8OWS31AeqXuibwRcThmZX7-CWyh3ZnvD7ZuMuY1i_R91p7LPTNJ4zisEG_B480V4qtDHSUDuqXFF51564jaWwh26OKYFs3X-CeabdPqobiw/s400/IMG_7537+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>We miss you, Aunt Katie!</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibj2xhGIeOB2UhNS1amfO6RtA7DhUkK_A0VSBgeCr6VTYz0Np_sbs1nCtL_qYGtgRhsqmYcuBzUtGwUo4TmTCuJweTTPafwmZZFuq-L8NxbofnhNj6EzpYZCNkQpW3XzQTJ-Q6QjbxZlM/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibj2xhGIeOB2UhNS1amfO6RtA7DhUkK_A0VSBgeCr6VTYz0Np_sbs1nCtL_qYGtgRhsqmYcuBzUtGwUo4TmTCuJweTTPafwmZZFuq-L8NxbofnhNj6EzpYZCNkQpW3XzQTJ-Q6QjbxZlM/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />kellyHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171309204329616736noreply@blogger.com1