tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26204671418329613142024-03-13T14:46:34.360-07:00A Bushel And A PeckA bushel of this, a peck of that, with a barrel and a heap of loveStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-5448650048149665412020-03-27T14:30:00.001-07:002020-03-27T15:53:01.914-07:00Quarantine ConfessionsI haven't blogged in years - I also haven't been exclusively home with kids in years. I process by writing and at the end of this second week of the great social isolation experiment, I have some thoughts to share.<br />
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I keep telling myself that we will find a routine soon, but that hasn't really happened yet. The first attempt at keeping the kids busy with a "points" system was meant to be self directed and stimulate creativity. I got a fair bit of push-back, but we did establish a few positives such as reading aloud to the kids (Little Pilgrim's Progress), playing more games together, figuring out how to use Microsoft Teams so they can connect with their teachers and friends, and going for a daily walk. I realized that we needed time to adjust and having a structured schedule right off the bat would be overboard for all of us. However, I didn't want a free-for-all/chaos. I also didn't feel well last week and there was a stomach bug in the house, so I was more patient with us all.<br />
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On Monday this week, I allowed for a Free-for-All day with no limits on screens or snacks. I thought, <i>get it out of their system</i>. I cleaned and did groceries and thought we would get ready to start the "home school" schedule Tuesday. Yes I made a colour coded chart with blocks of time scheduled. We eased into my plan - trying to be flexible and not go full force right away upon the advice of this <a href="https://fourlittlelearners.wixsite.com/website/post/emergency-homeschooling-where-do-i-start?fbclid=IwAR04SoQh7w4btxevzSmlGcAMbEs6M-aokjIcT8t2Vzcbndg6FOC4XmOYuj8" target="_blank">article</a>. We had 1 ok day with some academic stuff happening. But reality...stuff comes up, distractions, lack of motivation, fatigue, not knowing where to start, feeling pulled between all the kids. We spent an entire morning working on Rube Goldberg machines, but I didn't follow the schedule which resulted in some anxiety.<br />
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There are interruptions, things I need to do, conflicts and moods, 4 kids, 1 mom - you get it. I think I am probably not the only one a little frazzled, confused, emotional and anxious these days.<br />
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Turns out I have weaknesses and shortcomings. I have said "fine" after saying no but then being worn down. I have felt the need to control but then been humbled. I am not a teacher and not confident in doing "school" with my kids. I have had ideals of what I thought I could accomplish in a day. There are so many wonderful resources out there - technology is an amazing tool - there is no shortage of ideas - but it can be overwhelming too.<br />
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I have thought of this time as a gift, that I can do things with the kids that we don't normally have time for. I have been thankful for the blessings of home, health, food and family. I have also felt aimless, bored, overwhelmed and anxious.<br />
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I have been encouraged by messages coming from both our schools - that it is most important to be present with my kids, to give us all grace and patience, to take it slow with academics. I am thankful to be able to stay home with them. I have ideas but they don't all need to be implemented at once - I think we'll be in this for a while yet. Nurturing relationships and growing character is a priority.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a "koek and coffee break"</td></tr>
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Next week is a fresh start - I will still have a "plan", but I will adjust it and try to be realistic.<br />
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I write this as a raw, honest reflection of a surreal and confusing experience. I take comfort knowing that God is in control, that this time is sanctifying us, that there are lots of teachable moments and opportunities to show and ask for forgiveness!<br />
<br />
With a Bushel of Humility and a Peck of Grace,<br />
<br />
Stephanie<br />
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My dear husband wrote this encouraging article for the school newsletter. I am so thankful for him and all the teachers who are navigating these uncharted waters and trying to engage our kids in learning from home.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I_ZUhr3U1pE/Xn5ogZFymjI/AAAAAAAA56U/NUGtBtATLlsLW4CZktIs-LpROyVz8iWxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screenshot_20200326-185505_Drive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I_ZUhr3U1pE/Xn5ogZFymjI/AAAAAAAA56U/NUGtBtATLlsLW4CZktIs-LpROyVz8iWxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Screenshot_20200326-185505_Drive.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
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<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-89146778827593277562014-07-16T06:17:00.001-07:002014-07-16T06:17:10.958-07:00A Decade of Married Life<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today is our 10 year wedding anniversary. Wow! This is a milestone worth celebrating and we did that <a href="http://www.bushellandapeck.blogspot.ca/2014/05/10-year-anniversary-trip-to-new-york.html" target="_blank">New York style</a> a couple months ago. Time is funny; that trip feels like so long ago but 10 years of marriage is a blur. Today is a regular day with our whole family participating in our church's VBS program and I'll probably do some laundry and household stuff. Tonight though we will enjoy a date night out. </div>
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I have taken some time to look through our wedding photos and because digital photography was just coming out, most of our pictures are just on hard copy. I thought for record keeping though, I would scan some in and share them to remember the day and our youthful love.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K7kj05txVag/U8XXySCAPMI/AAAAAAAAA08/J38xEEIwUb8/s1600/Scan007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K7kj05txVag/U8XXySCAPMI/AAAAAAAAA08/J38xEEIwUb8/s1600/Scan007.jpg" height="640" width="433" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Dad walking me down the isle - I was so nervous and excited</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u2U1bZQKSko/U8XXtsTezaI/AAAAAAAAAzk/fke7Z2PMaE4/s1600/03490133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u2U1bZQKSko/U8XXtsTezaI/AAAAAAAAAzk/fke7Z2PMaE4/s1600/03490133.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew's reaction to seeing me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0lC1O9rg70Q/U8XXyuAsc8I/AAAAAAAAA1A/Du5HzLJZlZ4/s1600/Scan008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0lC1O9rg70Q/U8XXyuAsc8I/AAAAAAAAA1A/Du5HzLJZlZ4/s1600/Scan008.jpg" height="412" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Married!</td></tr>
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Love is also funny; I felt I knew and loved this guy enough to commit my life to him, but boy have we grown and changed and fallen in to a more mature and deep love. It's crazy that you can know a person so well, even all their flaws and shortcomings and still think they are the best person in the whole world; "to be known and still be loved is one of the supreme goals of marriage" R.C. Sproul. I truly couldn't imagine doing life with anyone else and I am blessed beyond measure to have such a devoted, wise and wonderful man to call my children's father and my husband. We are thick in the kid stage of life right now; finding time to connect is not always easy and sometimes we are just doing our own thing, coming and going, but still our goals are for a common cause; to raise our family to glorify God and seek His will in all we do. I feel like I was so naive 10 years ago; I didn't really know what I was getting myself into, I just knew I wanted to be with this guy and never loose him. But the best part is that God knew exactly what we were in for and saw fit to bring us together.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7sOrf4ykb2M/U8XXzBbc2dI/AAAAAAAAA1E/3Pz8-UCAMcc/s1600/Scan009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7sOrf4ykb2M/U8XXzBbc2dI/AAAAAAAAA1E/3Pz8-UCAMcc/s1600/Scan009.jpg" height="416" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were blessed to have 5 grandparents attend our wedding - this is both our parents and Oma Bekkering who has since passed on</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezjuJXJJKdY/U8XXvfiCk2I/AAAAAAAAA0A/rmOudIa-hgg/s1600/Scan001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezjuJXJJKdY/U8XXvfiCk2I/AAAAAAAAA0A/rmOudIa-hgg/s1600/Scan001.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We had 2 sweet nieces for flower-girls, Jenna 2 1/2 and Kelsy 1 1/2</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVGA5YABq-o/U8XXv6NMrLI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/al1TeZGxetc/s1600/Scan002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVGA5YABq-o/U8XXv6NMrLI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/al1TeZGxetc/s1600/Scan002.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My wonderful Mom made my dress and it was perfect</td></tr>
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I love our vows and have them framed in our bedroom; today is a good day to reflect on them...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8-Y2kryGPCc/U8XXuYVNWeI/AAAAAAAAAz8/FqPxP2-GqbQ/s1600/In+the+Park+%252818%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8-Y2kryGPCc/U8XXuYVNWeI/AAAAAAAAAz8/FqPxP2-GqbQ/s1600/In+the+Park+%252818%2529.jpg" height="400" width="261" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We look so young!</td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I, Stephanie,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">take you, Matthew,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">to be my wedded
husband;</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">and I do</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">promise and covenant</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">before God,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">with His gracious help and</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">according to His ordinance,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">to be your</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">loving and faithful wife;</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">for better, for worse,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">in joy and in sorrow,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">in sickness and
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">as long as God</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I thank God</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">for making you for me and</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">in our lives.</span></span></i></div>
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I think every milestone in life brings one to a place of reflection and most can say there have been ups and downs along the way. This is true for us as well and I praise the Lord for His faithfulness to us, for being our foundation and strength in all things. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WiTnKySEERc/U8XXwvxhMxI/AAAAAAAAA0c/rUGZphpNIeQ/s1600/Scan003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WiTnKySEERc/U8XXwvxhMxI/AAAAAAAAA0c/rUGZphpNIeQ/s1600/Scan003.jpg" height="504" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uXwY0K4BPto/U8XXxOUdpfI/AAAAAAAAA0k/efKTkNfes-8/s1600/Scan004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uXwY0K4BPto/U8XXxOUdpfI/AAAAAAAAA0k/efKTkNfes-8/s1600/Scan004.jpg" height="510" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love the story of how we met. We were both in our second year of University but at separate schools. Matt was playing basketball for the University of Lethbridge and I was pursuing a Communications degree at Trinity Western University in Langley, BC. We had a mutual friend that I was living in dorms with that Matt talked to and said, you'll have to hook me up with one of your friends when I come out to play TWU. Well, she picked me and showed us pictures of each other and told me he was tall. My interest was piqued and we started chatting on MSN messenger. A few emails and phone calls later and we were smitten. We didn't meet in person until that Christmas (2002) and when we did it was so natural. We did the long distance thing for the remainder of the year until I decided to transfer back to Alberta, initially to a Broadcasting program at SAIT in Calgary, but my heart was in Lethbridge, so for the Spring 2004 semester I enrolled at UofL. Still, across town was too far to travel at the end of the day, so in January (after booking a hall to make sure a summer wedding was possible), Matthew proposed in his parent's basement with flower petals and candles. Our wedding day, 6 months later, was a whirlwind but beautiful and special nonetheless. We both continued our studies and I graduated with a BA in Social Sciences in Fall 2005 and after having 2 babies, Matthew graduated with a BA and BEd in 2008. He obtained a job teaching Gr 6 at the school he went to his whole life and God has provided for us while I stay home with the kiddos. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_SvAF5mLiw/U8XXxdCnkGI/AAAAAAAAA0w/-MK6u6T-dz8/s1600/Scan005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_SvAF5mLiw/U8XXxdCnkGI/AAAAAAAAA0w/-MK6u6T-dz8/s1600/Scan005.jpg" height="640" width="542" /></a></div>
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What more can I say? 10 years is hard to sum up, but we have 4 kids, a full schedule, a committed love and faith in God to see us through.</div>
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Wedded Bliss,</div>
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<i>Stephanie</i></div>
Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-31317816734993567512014-05-03T10:26:00.000-07:002014-05-03T11:51:29.754-07:0010 Year Anniversary Trip to New York City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
For our upcoming 10 year anniversary, we wanted to take a "second honeymoon". Not being pregnant or nursing for the first time in many years provided the freedom, and parents willing to take our 4 <strike>rambunctious </strike>darling children for a week provided the opportunity. We went to Cuba for our honeymoon, which was a neat experience. But after having spent a couple days in Chicago surrounding a family wedding in Indiana a couple years ago, I thought that a big city with lots to see and do appealed to me more than a beach (I usually escape the heat, but there is something to be said for relaxing while on vacation). I chose New York as a top place I wanted to see and booked flights in January using Airmiles. This was good for saving money, but our flight schedule was a little wonky (flying to Vancouver on the way home before Calgary). We decided to fly in to LaGuardia as the times worked better. Some have said because it's a smaller airport than JFK that it is more prone to delays, but as we had nice weather, there were no delays at all. The airport is in Queens (North East of Manhattan). We took our first (and only) taxi straight to our apartment as we wanted to get settled before figuring out the city and the subway system. It was neat to drive over the Triborough Bridge and through the Bronx and see the city from North to South until we arrived at our apartment in Mid Town. The taxi cost $47 including tip.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7u62YLB5vEA/U2RdczFJbnI/AAAAAAAAAyo/WgjgybLDo4Q/s1600/Map+of+Manhattan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7u62YLB5vEA/U2RdczFJbnI/AAAAAAAAAyo/WgjgybLDo4Q/s1600/Map+of+Manhattan.jpg" height="640" width="378" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This map of Manhattan may help to identify areas I am describing if you are following that closely ~ the red dot is our apartment</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONrwbffbHNQ/U2QOeZJa1LI/AAAAAAAAAxo/7Qpj_8qvClU/s1600/apartment+building.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONrwbffbHNQ/U2QOeZJa1LI/AAAAAAAAAxo/7Qpj_8qvClU/s1600/apartment+building.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside of our apartment <a href="https://www.google.ca/maps/place/441+W+56th+St/@40.768064,-73.988146,3a,75y,20.17h,101.07t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1spxzNQv3rNRVdaoBta7FoXQ!2e0!4m2!3m1!1s0x89c2585977b748a9:0x76b574c623e0c8e9!6m1!1e1?hl=en" target="_blank">441 W 56 St</a> ~ Fire escape looking out to a courtyard at the back of the building ~ walking down 56 St to our apartment under the scaffolding that is everywhere in the city ~ walking up the first of 2 flights of stairs in a quiet building</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-muhBKwjPKf4/U2QNsABC38I/AAAAAAAAAts/ZEIFNUtm6kw/s1600/Apartment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-muhBKwjPKf4/U2QNsABC38I/AAAAAAAAAts/ZEIFNUtm6kw/s1600/Apartment.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our home away from home for the week ~ a great central location to regroup in the middle of the day, relax at night and enjoy breakfast and coffee in the morning</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONrwbffbHNQ/U2QOeZJa1LI/AAAAAAAAAxo/7Qpj_8qvClU/s1600/apartment+building.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Now as for accommodations, I had chosen to do a rental by owner through <a href="https://www.airbnb.ca/?locale=en" target="_blank">Airbnb</a>. I spent quite a bit of time researching the thousands of listings in Manhattan and decided on one that was a central location, reasonable price and looked nice from the pictures. The only thing is that it was a new listing and hadn't been reviewed, so there was a bit of unknown. I wasn't fully convinced that it was going to work out until we arrived and opened the door with the keys that had been mailed to us. It was perfect, a 2 flight walk up on a quiet street with a comfortable queen sized bed, wifi, cable TV, a coffee maker and a fire escape! I have a thing for fire escapes as an iconic New York apartment thing. (Side note - I may use the word iconic a lot). I figured we saved over $500 this way versus the price of a hotel, which was at best $50 more a night, plus 14% hotel tax, not to mention not having to tip the service people. It felt like we had our own New York living experience for a week. </div>
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I was excited that there were signs of spring in New York as we had snow on and off all April in Alberta. We traveled during Easter break, which fell at the end of April this year and were just in time for tulips and blossoms which are my favourites. The weather was a comfortable 12-18 degrees Celsius all week, some days being more cloudy and windy and only one late afternoon rainfall. </div>
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Anyway, we first went in search of the nearest grocery store, which happened to be a <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/" target="_blank">Whole Foods</a> in Columbus Circle. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0QgB7ggMdM/U2QN2xVgeFI/AAAAAAAAAuY/my8MbJdIwcM/s1600/Columbus+Circle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0QgB7ggMdM/U2QN2xVgeFI/AAAAAAAAAuY/my8MbJdIwcM/s1600/Columbus+Circle.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking out from the Time Warner Center to Columbus Circle ~ Our grocery finds at Whole Foods including "Uncle Matt's" OJ ~ 2 different angles of Columbus Circle.</td></tr>
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Columbus Circle was only 2 blocks East and 4 blocks North (the distance between the East and West Avenues being longer than the North to South Streets). It was a main thorough fare with the South West entrance to Central Park and also our closest Subway station. Inside the Time Warner Center was high end shopping and a Whole Foods in the basement. It was 6:00 on Sunday evening and the busiest grocery store I've ever been in. I can't imagine that being my regular shopping experience. We managed to find some basic breakfast items and snack foods along with some take out dinner. On the way back we stopped at the CVS pharmacy for some "treat" cereal, coffee, beer and water (we weren't sure if the tap water was good so we erred on the safe side and bought a jug daily). We ended the day by relaxing in the apartment and planning the next day.</div>
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For our first day, we decided to explore Central Manhattan on foot and see how far we could get. We had tickets for Letterman that afternoon so we set out first to Broadway, which leads south to Times Square. It was neat to see, but a bit disappointing for me as it was full of construction (as were a lot of things in the city). We poked through a few stores and Matt found some $30 Converse his size. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oyJRPn5qgcU/U2QOm6G3q_I/AAAAAAAAAyI/GzJKfvGlO2w/s1600/st+peters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oyJRPn5qgcU/U2QOm6G3q_I/AAAAAAAAAyI/GzJKfvGlO2w/s1600/st+peters.jpg" height="376" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt putting on his new shoes ~ Inside St. Thomas Church on 5th Avenue (more construction).</td></tr>
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We also came across an old church in the middle of the city called <a href="http://www.saintthomaschurch.org/about" target="_blank">St. Thomas Church</a>, a very ornate Catholic church which was full of stained glass and religious imagery. It too was under construction but open to the public. There were a lot of things I hoped to see but didn't have a set plan, we would just run in to things, take a picture and move on. Things were very close together and within reasonable walking distance, although I can't over emphasize the importance of good walking shoes. </div>
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We walked East from Times Square until we found Fifth Avenue. Of course there were a lot of nice stores and we did walk through <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/Entry.jsp" target="_blank">Saks 5th Avenue</a> and <a href="http://www.tiffany.ca/Locations/FlagshipStore/NewYork.aspx" target="_blank">Tiffany's</a>. I bought a lip gloss at Saks, nothing at Tiffany's (someday). Those stores in particular were iconic New York for me, a lot of other stores have come to Canada so have lost a bit of the appeal of exclusivity. As far as shopping went, there weren't great sales or unique finds, so I didn't bring home an extra suitcase. And that's ok too because this trip was more about the sites and experience than the pursuit of a great deal. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2tGEK141Z-s/U2QOY6IesAI/AAAAAAAAAw0/Tc1s_oBiFdw/s1600/Shops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2tGEK141Z-s/U2QOY6IesAI/AAAAAAAAAw0/Tc1s_oBiFdw/s1600/Shops.jpg" height="594" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saks Fifth Avenue ~ Tiffany & Co (this one was on Wall Street but we did walk through the one on Fifth Avenue)</td></tr>
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We then walked in one store on Fifth Avenue and out the other end was Rockefeller Center, which was on our list. We grabbed lunch in a nice cafeteria called <a href="http://www.rockefellercenter.com/shop-and-eat/cucina-co/" target="_blank">Cucina & Co</a>. and took it outside to the plaza to sit. If you don't know 30 Rock is the home of NBC studios and the Top of the Rock is a tourist hot spot to see the city (recommended over the Empire State building as you can see the Empire State from it and it's cheaper). It is supposed to be great to see it at sunset to get the day and night perspective. We went to go up later in the week at 7:00 but found out that they assign viewing times and the next time was 10:10, so we would have to come back. That and the $60 ride up was a bit of a turn off, so we didn't do it and it's ok because we had seen the city from a number of vantage points already. However, if there was a chance that I could be one of<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTKquKZdfyc&feature=share" target="_blank"> these people that got photo-bombed by Jimmy Fallon and Cameron Diaz</a>, I would have paid the $60. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LWP4kDzMUhM/U2QOXv-oTNI/AAAAAAAAAwk/aw2T0Y6Sw_o/s1600/Rockerfeller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LWP4kDzMUhM/U2QOXv-oTNI/AAAAAAAAAwk/aw2T0Y6Sw_o/s1600/Rockerfeller.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt standing in front of 30 Rock ~ Rockefeller Center ~ Eating lunch in Rockefeller Plaza, decorated for Easter ~ Me in front of the Rockefeller Plaza ice rink</td></tr>
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We had arranged for tickets to see a taping of the Late Show with David Letterman before we came and were told to come at 2:00 to the Ed Sullivan Theater, and to block off until 5:30 for the taping. Of course my first choice was to see the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, but tickets were unavailable even 6 weeks before. But it was still a chance to see Letterman before he retires and get the experience of a TV show taping. So we got there on time and there was already a line up around the block, which made us start to question if we would get in. The line went fast and we were given "pre-seat" tickets because Matt is tall. We had to come back at 3:05 to be given a speech about laughing and clapping and then were seated in the back corner for "leg room". It was kind of a shaft, I understand so people's view wasn't blocked, but we could still see the stage pretty well. Before long the announcer, Alan Kalter came out to talk to us more about what to do during the show. Then the band came out and played for a while. Then David came out and spoke to the audience for a few minutes; he was funny and good on his feet. He even used one of the audience questions in his bit throughout the show, which was neat. The guests were Courtney Cox, Jimmy Walker, and Christina Perri. It was entertaining and we laughed even when we didn't think it was funny because that is why we were there. It was also neat to watch the show later that night on TV and compare the real from the aired (pretty much exact with a bit of material cut for time). </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP-mLDD2j2Q/U2QOPhu51AI/AAAAAAAAAv8/NsFgYfV2elw/s1600/Letterman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP-mLDD2j2Q/U2QOPhu51AI/AAAAAAAAAv8/NsFgYfV2elw/s1600/Letterman.jpg" height="594" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Outside the Ed Sullivan Theater near Times Square on Broadway ~ our ticket to the Letterman show</div>
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That evening I had made reservations for after the show at a restaurant close by which I had got a <a href="http://www.groupon.com/" target="_blank">Groupon</a> for. I bought 4 Groupons for this trip to save some money and narrow down our restaurant selection. I didn't want to over buy and be stuck trying to fit them all in the week, but enough that we could have a couple of nicer dinners for 50% savings. The first one was called <a href="https://stecchinoitaliannyc.com/" target="_blank">Stecchino</a> and it was a small Italian joint that came with 2 drinks each, an appetizer to share and an entree each. We both enjoyed a nice meal and our bill came to $110. I had paid $35 for the Groupon and all we paid that night was $20 for the tax and tip.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LKXO0Ed3DDo/U2QNvELNMLI/AAAAAAAAAt0/vS5Y8_irOPw/s1600/20140421_175848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LKXO0Ed3DDo/U2QNvELNMLI/AAAAAAAAAt0/vS5Y8_irOPw/s1600/20140421_175848.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me enjoying one of the pretty planters outside a building<br />
~ when we posted this picture on Facebook,<br />
Ella was kissing the phone (melt my heart).</td></tr>
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So far in our New York experience a few things have jumped out at me. First of all, we couldn't help but notice the garbage collection system. They put their garbage (or what may have been recycling, but in garbage bags) in piles on the sidewalks. It is quite unsightly and seems like a big city would have a better system, although I suppose they don't have back alleys and the space it takes. There is also a lot more litter on the streets than we are used to, in that respect the city seemed dirtier than other big cities I have been to. Every so often when walking down the street you would get a whiff of an unpleasant smell wafting up from the sewer. And I have already mentioned the construction. When walking I would say to Matt, lets try to pick a street that isn't lined with scaffolding so we have something to look at. However, I loved that there were flowers planted in little beds allover the sidewalks and street boulevards. I felt safe in the city, day and night as every store, parking garage and building entrance has a security guard. The city is well set up for tourists, very service oriented and easy to get around. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EH0yvRxlR4k/U2QOWFTH5kI/AAAAAAAAAwg/NSCdSRMff3I/s1600/On+the+street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EH0yvRxlR4k/U2QOWFTH5kI/AAAAAAAAAwg/NSCdSRMff3I/s1600/On+the+street.jpg" height="376" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a unique way of parking cars ~ A taste of home, the only Tim Horton's we saw and we weren't home sick enough to go in</td></tr>
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On Tuesday we decided to start as far South as the Subway would take us. We bought a week Metrocard for $31 each (each ride is $2.75 otherwise and we definitely got our money's worth as we only used the Subway and walked for the rest of the week). We got off at the Staten Island Ferry at 10:15 and the next boat came at 10:30. This was our plan to see the harbor for free as the Ferry goes past Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty and is 25 minutes one way. The paid Harbor Tours let you off at each Island but we weren't really interested in that. It was cloudy that day but still could see the Downtown Manhattan skyline and New Jersey, which is a stones throw away from Manhattan. Once we arrived in Staten Island (which is one of the 5 burrows of NYC but there was nothing we wanted to do there), we grabbed a coffee and got on the 11:30 Ferry back. While waiting at the Ferry terminal it was so busy we definitely felt like one in a sea of people, insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but knowing that we were loved and missed back home. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z411xfH0ATg/U2QN4mRmtiI/AAAAAAAAAuk/S8kKAq0WG1w/s1600/Harbour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z411xfH0ATg/U2QN4mRmtiI/AAAAAAAAAuk/S8kKAq0WG1w/s1600/Harbour.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown Manhattan skyline with the new One World Trade Center ~ Lady Liberty ~ Matt on the Ferry deck ~ Ellis Island in the middle ~ Brooklyn Bridge with Manhattan Bridge in the back</td></tr>
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After docking we walked a little North to Wall Street where we first came across a beautiful cemetery with blooming magnolia trees. We then found out that it was <a href="http://www.trinitywallstreet.org/" target="_blank">Trinity Church,</a> the first church in New York.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-biYwXJuu88c/U2QObYTzBWI/AAAAAAAAAxM/6YAIiD5tIqo/s1600/Trinity+Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-biYwXJuu88c/U2QObYTzBWI/AAAAAAAAAxM/6YAIiD5tIqo/s1600/Trinity+Church.jpg" height="392" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view of Trinity Church from Wall Street ~ Inside the church with beautiful Easter arrangements ~ the Cemetery with trees in bloom amongst the concrete jungle</td></tr>
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We then found (more like picked from the numerous) a food truck for lunch and had a quick and cheap lunch for only $10. These Sabrett trucks were everywhere, but we were told later in the week that Grays Papaya were the best hot dogs, although we never came across one. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b_tQMxK8RMQ/U2QOnNjJIuI/AAAAAAAAAyM/BfJCwd8XtHc/s1600/street+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b_tQMxK8RMQ/U2QOnNjJIuI/AAAAAAAAAyM/BfJCwd8XtHc/s1600/street+food.jpg" height="210" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the hundreds of food carts in the city, I had my first NY hotdog which was pretty average and Matt had a yummy chicken souvlaki and rice</td></tr>
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Wall Street at lunch time was busy, but like everywhere in NYC, it was hard to tell who was a local and who was a tourist. We heard a lot of European accents over the week. Other people seemed like they were trying to get to and from their jobs/homes. I usually figured if they were alone that they lived there, just doing their thing and the sites were part of their everyday.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_WS-ZQ9W0w0/U2QOcnB3C1I/AAAAAAAAAxU/tBbqkmmnQDY/s1600/Wall+Street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_WS-ZQ9W0w0/U2QOcnB3C1I/AAAAAAAAAxU/tBbqkmmnQDY/s1600/Wall+Street.jpg" height="376" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New York Stock Exchange building with the flags, barricades so we couldn't peak in ~ Statue of George Washington</td></tr>
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We then meandered North, always looking up and seeing neat buildings but not knowing what they all were. I took a lot of building pictures and flower pictures but tried to limit this blog to the exceptional ones. We were interested to see the site of the World Trade Center, but there wasn't much to see as it was covered by temporary construction walls. There was a line to get tickets to take a tour and see the memorial fountain but we chose not to wait.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E7TlvQA70GI/U2QOg4FEvQI/AAAAAAAAAx0/Ocbr4UN96xE/s1600/buildings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E7TlvQA70GI/U2QOg4FEvQI/AAAAAAAAAx0/Ocbr4UN96xE/s1600/buildings.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top left: <a href="http://lc.lincolncenter.org/" target="_blank">Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts</a> ~ Empire State Building ~ <a href="http://www.wtc.com/about/freedom-tower" target="_blank">One World Trade Center</a> ~ City Hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWcVggvqORI/U2QOiGdl23I/AAAAAAAAAx8/3l80vgV4mKU/s1600/chess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWcVggvqORI/U2QOiGdl23I/AAAAAAAAAx8/3l80vgV4mKU/s1600/chess.jpg" height="594" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very ornate and beautiful municipal building ~ men playing chess in the park I thought was iconic New York</td></tr>
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Near City Hall Park there was a food truck that Matt had heard about called <a href="http://www.wafelsanddinges.com/#" target="_blank">Wafels & Dinges</a> so we shared one covered in strawberries, chocolate and whipped cream ~ yeah, it was pretty great. A lot of our trip revolves around food, partly because you have to eat and partly because I love to eat and we found some pretty unique and yummy things to fill our tummies.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0iDX0OUnFoQ/U2QOc7KlQPI/AAAAAAAAAxY/hBSQOfPhQYs/s1600/Waffles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0iDX0OUnFoQ/U2QOc7KlQPI/AAAAAAAAAxY/hBSQOfPhQYs/s1600/Waffles.jpg" height="376" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wafels & Dinges famous food truck - mmmm</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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We had to head back via Subway at this point to give ourselves enough time for our evening plans. I grabbed a quick rest and then we had dinner reservations for 5 because we were going to the theater at 7. I made reservations at a restaurant that I had a Groupon for. This was supposed to be the "nicest" of our meals. We had to walk through the light rain in our dress clothes to get there. It was called <a href="http://www.resette.com/home" target="_blank">Re Sette</a>. It was a very narrow restaurant as many are, so our seating arrangement wasn't ideal. We listened to a dysfunctional family birthday dinner in which 2 grown daughters were bickering like kids; it was mildly entertaining but sad too. Our meals were good but unfortunately I read the Groupon wrong and we ordered drinks instead of the wine that was supposed to come with it, so we had to pay more. Not to mention a poor waiter, it wasn't our best experience. Not everything is sunshine and roses on holiday. But we moved on to the nearby Imperial Theater without too much time to spare. Our seats were in the Orchestra section and they were cozy with little leg room, but we could see and hear perfectly. Les Miserables was our first Broadway show and it was a great choice. Sure there were others that interested us and I had been torn, but we pre-booked these tickets as it is a new production and in high demand. I had been looking into sales through <a href="http://www.theatermania.com/" target="_blank">TheaterMania</a>, as some shows had 20% off. Les Mis had no sale tickets however, so it was a splurge. It was so well done and a powerful experience, although I have nothing to compare it to, I laughed and cried and Matt loved it too.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgHpTCwf4Hw/U2QORouuNgI/AAAAAAAAAwA/XGOaMd-ovyY/s1600/Les+Mis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgHpTCwf4Hw/U2QORouuNgI/AAAAAAAAAwA/XGOaMd-ovyY/s1600/Les+Mis.jpg" height="380" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dressed up for our Broadway date ~ Les Miz at the Imperial Theater</td></tr>
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On Wednesday we had no pre booked plans so the day was wide open. This was one of my favourite days, although it was cool and windy, we covered a lot of ground, just pounding the pavement and seeing so much. Our trip was a good balance of scheduled and spontaneous. I had things listed I wanted to see and do, but only a few things set in stone and by the end we had seen and done all the things on my list and more. </div>
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We took the Subway South to what we thought was China Town. We got off on a street that seemed to have some Chinese influence, but was kinda scuzzy. We looked at our map and figured that the cool China Town was a little more south but we were really close to Little Italy so we decided to skip China Town. It seems every area has a cool shopping street. We walked past so many big name stores and a lot of neat boutiques too. In walking around this area we ran into <a href="http://www.firstpizza.com/" target="_blank">Lombardi's Pizza</a>, which was on my list. It is the first pizza place in North America. It was 11:15 and it opened at 11:30 so we waited a few minutes. We were just going to grab a slice to take out but they didn't do that. Their Take-Out was at the back so we got to see the old Coal Oven which is Grandfathered in (they can't be built new but if they are existing originals they can still be used). We ordered a small pepperoni and they suggested we eat in as it gets soggy in the box. The manager was really informative and told us that the original restaurant was above a subway and the coal oven fell into the subway. This location is an old bakery around the corner. The great grandson is still part owner. It was a big small pizza and so delicious, with fresh toppings and very authentic. Another place that was recommended to have great pizza is called Joe's Pizza, but we never made it there either.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbJmw94R-GE/U2QOTWlgrhI/AAAAAAAAAwM/-4FhG9K7MBg/s1600/Lombardis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbJmw94R-GE/U2QOTWlgrhI/AAAAAAAAAwM/-4FhG9K7MBg/s1600/Lombardis.jpg" height="210" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lombardi's Pizza ~ the first pizza place in North America with an original Coal Oven ~ delicious!</td></tr>
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We asked where was a good place in Little Italy to get a cannoli and they recommended <a href="http://www.ferraracafe.com/home.php" target="_blank">Ferrara's</a> Bakery just around the corner, which is the first espresso place in North America. It was a very classy, beautiful restaurant with a stunning display of pastries. I had a cannoli, because I had never had one and it was wonderful, and Matt had a lemon meringue tart. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2_u8-KIbb0/U2QOSxzk_UI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/fANphbYArcU/s1600/Little+Italy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2_u8-KIbb0/U2QOSxzk_UI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/fANphbYArcU/s1600/Little+Italy.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Little Italy ~ Ferrara's Bakery ~ Pastry display case ~ Our treat, Cannoli and Lemon Meringue tart with espresso and cappuccino </td></tr>
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We walked from Little Italy a bit West to Soho and found a nice shopping street in which we window shopped for a while. We found a scholastic store which was fun, like a giant Book Fair. Then we took the subway a bit North to Greenwich Village.</div>
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This was enjoyable as we used the guide book that we brought (highly recommend <a href="http://www.frommers.com/destinations/new-york-city#sthash.lhevNDq5.dpbs" target="_blank">Frommer's </a>Guide book) and followed a neighborhood walking tour of Greenwich Village. It was very relaxed here and not too busy with such beautiful, historical buildings.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wihTM8dbeVk/U2QOC5xc4_I/AAAAAAAAAvM/MxF3cBVeDbA/s1600/IMG_0620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wihTM8dbeVk/U2QOC5xc4_I/AAAAAAAAAvM/MxF3cBVeDbA/s1600/IMG_0620.JPG" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greco Roman style Row houses, now used as NYU administration offices ~ reminds me of the Cosby show</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nCpqLqlRuN8/U2QN_5ym6gI/AAAAAAAAAu8/LYAMy_7iAbs/s1600/IMG_0612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nCpqLqlRuN8/U2QN_5ym6gI/AAAAAAAAAu8/LYAMy_7iAbs/s1600/IMG_0612.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pretty street with an old theatre and other landmarks that were on the guide</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xe6Z4LkbNYE/U2QOARCT7qI/AAAAAAAAAvA/Jmov1kyNsm0/s1600/IMG_0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xe6Z4LkbNYE/U2QOARCT7qI/AAAAAAAAAvA/Jmov1kyNsm0/s1600/IMG_0615.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does this building look familiar? It is the facade they used for the TV show "Friends". I didn't catch on right away, I thought the man who pointed it out said something about it being a "French" building. When Matt clarified, I was excited to find this iconic site. </td></tr>
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From Greenwhich Village we kept hoofing it until we got to another recommended place called <a href="http://www.thehighline.org/" target="_blank">The High Line</a>, which is in the Meat Packing district along the West coast of Manhattan. It is an old rail line that has been converted into a walkway and park space. It was just in bloom and was very pretty and a neat perspective to see the city.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RM22lI_JwSc/U2QN6JwE4RI/AAAAAAAAAu0/5djNEtnAmgY/s1600/Highline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RM22lI_JwSc/U2QN6JwE4RI/AAAAAAAAAu0/5djNEtnAmgY/s1600/Highline.jpg" height="376" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The High Line</td></tr>
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From there we walked down to <a href="http://chelseamarket.com/index.php/About/contact/about-chelsea-market" target="_blank">Chelsea Market</a> which is an old Nabisco factory turned into a posh flee market and food/restaurant market. Ok, at this point I was sooo tired and my feet hurt, but the day was still young. We decided to head back up the Subway and got off at Madison Square Garden, which was neat but nothing much to see from the concourse. We went to the famous <a href="http://www.visitmacysnewyork.com/" target="_blank">Macy's</a> which is 11 stories and America's largest department store. It was a bit overwhelming, so first we had to eat. We found a place to get a burger in the cellar of the store. From there we split up and I went to all the levels, looked but did not buy a thing. Eventually all department stores started to blur including Bloomingdales, which I found had a nice washroom, but all the same brand name stuff for not so great prices. Oh well, still neat to be there. </div>
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Thursday we decided to redeem another Groupon, but this one was not for food, it was for bike rentals in Central Park. I knew I was excited to do this and the experience met my expectations. It was a lovely day. The bike rental shop was right near the central entrance to the park. We had the bikes for 2 hours and they said the bike path would only take an hour, so we could get off and walk around some of the paths and take pictures. It was a great way to see the park, which is so iconic and lovely in bloom. Also to see the surrounding city as it goes as far North as Harlem, which we didn't go to except to bike through. Except for one incline that had me huffing and puffing, it was a relaxing ride. It was also a good way to identify the spot that we had to come back to later in the afternoon for our prearranged photo shoot. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2Ks7qpzUiA/U2QOfS_C90I/AAAAAAAAAxk/oJYu-HBEQ9M/s1600/bikes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2Ks7qpzUiA/U2QOfS_C90I/AAAAAAAAAxk/oJYu-HBEQ9M/s1600/bikes.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biking through Central Park ~ left: me posing in the <a href="http://www.centralpark.com/guide/attractions/shakespeare-garden.html" target="_blank">Shakespeare Gardens</a> ~ right: Matt biking past the Museum Mile</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XM0ZKpz2smM/U2QN2jgnhrI/AAAAAAAAAuU/YSsUte2Q9Ig/s1600/Central+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XM0ZKpz2smM/U2QN2jgnhrI/AAAAAAAAAuU/YSsUte2Q9Ig/s1600/Central+Park.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">top left: <a href="http://www.centralpark.com/guide/attractions/reservoir.html" target="_blank">Jackie O Reservoir</a> with Beatles' Dakota building in the background ~ top middle: the <a href="http://www.centralpark.com/guide/attractions/pond.html" target="_blank">Pond</a> in Central Park ~ top right: classic horse drawn carriage ($50 for the first 20 minutes) ~ bottom: <a href="http://www.centralpark.com/guide/attractions/bethesda-terrace/bethesda-fountain.html" target="_blank">Bethesda Fountain</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oWAmee-y3Gk/U2QOHRrEgpI/AAAAAAAAAvY/smIVC10MUxA/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oWAmee-y3Gk/U2QOHRrEgpI/AAAAAAAAAvY/smIVC10MUxA/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.centralpark.com/guide/attractions/tavern-on-the-green.html" target="_blank">Tavern on the Green</a> was just being re-opened and there was a press conference in which we heard a Senator say that New York welcomes 60 million tourist a year ~ add that to the 3 million people that live in Manhattan and you could double the population at any given time.</td></tr>
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After our bike ride we grabbed some lunch from a row of food trucks that we saw lined up on Broadway. They change regularly so the one Matt had seen early in the week wasn't there, but he had yummy Korean beef and I had Polish kielbasa and pierogis. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YLLRR3vEAx8/U2QOKhB-DaI/AAAAAAAAAvo/tRHnbmayWfA/s1600/Iconic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YLLRR3vEAx8/U2QOKhB-DaI/AAAAAAAAAvo/tRHnbmayWfA/s1600/Iconic.jpg" height="210" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">left: a classic firehall ~ middle: Love Art ~ right: Food truck on Broadway</td></tr>
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After going back to the apartment for a bit of a rest, we got ready for our photoshoot. I had read about <a href="http://www.flytographer.com/" target="_blank">Flytographer </a>in a magazine as a young Canadian entrepreneurial company. The concept appealed to me as I love photos as memories and I knew that we wouldn't get good pictures together while there with no one but strangers to take them. This was also something I would do anyway for our 10 year anniversary, so it's everything in one package. We met Kimberly in Central Park at the Bow Bridge. She gave us some direction and she was easy to get comfortable with, even in a park full of people. It was hard to imagine what the pictures would look like behind us but we trusted her eye. We ended up having fun in the park and getting awesome pictures as a result. Not only do I look at them and feel the love we share, but I see the sites in the background that are reminders of our trip.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DLBcOT-8v1M/U2RiFpURTuI/AAAAAAAAAyw/lTnEienvXag/s1600/flytographer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DLBcOT-8v1M/U2RiFpURTuI/AAAAAAAAAyw/lTnEienvXag/s1600/flytographer.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photography by <a href="http://www.flytographer.com/vacation-photographers/your-vacation-photographer-in-new-york-meet-kimberly" target="_blank">Kimberly </a>~ the entire album can be viewed <a href="http://gallery.flytographer.com/Customers/Canada/Stephanie-Bekkering/Stephanie-Matthew-Anniversary/n-348N3/i-CMsnSjb" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
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We went back to the apartment to change and back on the town for more sight seeing. We first went to Grand Central Station which I knew would be cool, but it was amazing. It is so grand and beautiful in the central part with nice hallways going to the subway branching off. There are nice shops and restaurants in the hallways too - by far the nicest as far as train stations go. The art on the ceiling is constellations, but it was hard to get a good picture to capture how grand it was. We just stood there for a while taking it in as people bustled around us.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d9xTL7lLUdI/U2QN4yKV9GI/AAAAAAAAAuo/KdjaT-pd04U/s1600/Grand+Central.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d9xTL7lLUdI/U2QN4yKV9GI/AAAAAAAAAuo/KdjaT-pd04U/s1600/Grand+Central.jpg" height="594" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Central Station</td></tr>
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We then went to find the Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Park Avenue, which I have always thought special from the movie <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serendipity_%28film%29" target="_blank">Serendipity</a>. It is a romantic chick flick, and one I have watched a number of times with some of my top New York dream spots from there. It was very elegant and we toured around the lobby for a bit, even the bathroom was fancy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0SVN93eapk/U2QOIV-JP4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/QSTn8uEN_EQ/s1600/IMG_0696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0SVN93eapk/U2QOIV-JP4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/QSTn8uEN_EQ/s1600/IMG_0696.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Park Avenue</td></tr>
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We used our last Groupon to get a burger and a beer at the <a href="http://www.thelongroomnyc.com/" target="_blank">Long Room</a>. It was a busy after-work joint and we were really hungry, but we had great service and good food. This was the point that we were going to go to the Top of the Rock but moved on to our final destination for dessert at <a href="http://www.serendipity3.com/" target="_blank">Serendipity 3</a> (another movie association). We had to wait for a bit as it is very popular; the first boutique coffee shop. It is tacky inside with famous Tiffany lampshades and other gaudy decor. They are famous for their frozen hot chocolate, which was big, but as they had a per person minimum, Matt also ordered a hot fudge sundae. Both were good but I liked the sundae better. Apparently when our kids saw the picture we posted on Facebook, they got really excited.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X0kjy8gct2U/U2QOl6z28XI/AAAAAAAAAyE/lIYR2M0u27w/s1600/serendipity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X0kjy8gct2U/U2QOl6z28XI/AAAAAAAAAyE/lIYR2M0u27w/s1600/serendipity.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dessert at Serendipity 3</td></tr>
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Another full day, it's been a whirlwind, hard to even remember what we did in a day without looking at pictures.</div>
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Friday was looking to be a more relaxing day. We headed out to see the <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/en" target="_blank">Metropolitan Museum of Art </a>in the morning. It was a recommended $25 per person admission, but up to us what to give. We hummed and hawed for a minute and then Matt handed the lady $40. The people behind us paid $20 for the two of them, so then we spent a few minutes feeling like cheap Dutchmen and thinking we paid too much. Oh well, in the end we felt it was worth it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1tlPpN0MANM/U2QOWKpWIjI/AAAAAAAAAwc/jDp7MO4HjVk/s1600/Met+Museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1tlPpN0MANM/U2QOWKpWIjI/AAAAAAAAAwc/jDp7MO4HjVk/s1600/Met+Museum.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">top left: inside the Met gallery ~ fresh blossoms in the lobby ~ outside the Metropolitan Museum ~ There are many museums in New York, many on Museum Mile ~ middle: Arms and Armour</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWcVggvqORI/U2QOiGdl23I/AAAAAAAAAx4/UmMrRaESTLM/s1600/chess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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We started in the European Art section. You could spend hours if not days in this place. It was all very interesting, but we both really liked the Dutch painters the best, Rembrandt and van Gogh among others. I didn't really care for a lot of the Renaissance portraits and religious paintings, but the scenic ones were beautiful. I was impressed with how real some paintings looked and how light and fresh the colours looked in paintings that are hundreds of years old. I am no art buff, but it was special to see some of these paintings in real life. We went through the Arms and Armour wing and the American wing before we were hungry and things started to look blurry. We spent 2 and a half hours in there. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ah_YMvLy3KQ/U2QNzf-2P9I/AAAAAAAAAuE/4YzyAQFYzSY/s1600/Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ah_YMvLy3KQ/U2QNzf-2P9I/AAAAAAAAAuE/4YzyAQFYzSY/s1600/Art.jpg" height="484" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This collage won't do this art justice but these are some of my favourites including a Rembrandt self portrait, Vosmaer, van Gogh, Seurat, Picasso, and Tiffany</td></tr>
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After grabbing a hotdog and pretzel as a "snack" to tide us over, we decided to head out in pursuit of <a href="https://katzsdelicatessen.com/" target="_blank">Katz's Deli</a>. I had intended to do this on Saturday before we left, but I am so glad we didn't as not only would we have been pushing it for time, it would have a line up around the block on a weekend. We got off the subway in Soho and walked a few blocks East until we found it. It is a popular place and it was packed. We were given a ticket and got sent to the meat cutting line to order. It was like herding cattle. A lady behind us was a regular and said she goes once a month and had been coming since she was 15 when the prices were $5 a sandwich. Now for $18 we split a Reuben. It was plenty big with lots of pickles. Our meat cutter gave us a sample of both corned beef and pastrami and we both preferred the bit drier corned beef, but both were great. I can honestly say this is the best sandwich I have ever had and my mouth waters just thinking about it. A must if you go to NYC.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCRVENe5By4/U2QOOe2rf7I/AAAAAAAAAv0/9SFtFyNLITU/s1600/Katzs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCRVENe5By4/U2QOOe2rf7I/AAAAAAAAAv0/9SFtFyNLITU/s1600/Katzs.jpg" height="544" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katz's Deli - The BEST SANDWICH EVER!</td></tr>
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We then moved on to find the Flatiron building, which I had wanted to see but it was not close to anything else we had done so far. We had the time and so we went a bit North of Union Square. I had kept seeing buildings this week that I thought were it, but Matt kept saying no, they were too small and in the wrong part of town, even if they were the right shape. When I saw it for real, I understood the impact of it. It is where Broadway and 5th Ave intersect and it was an architectural first. It was a neat part of town and we walked around the shops for a bit, finding a <a href="http://www.fishseddy.com/" target="_blank">Fishes Eddy</a> which was a cool dishes store. I enjoyed that more than most clothes stores so far. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__045eEDE4E/U2QOKCrY6uI/AAAAAAAAAvk/bvLQGZUsZD8/s1600/IMG_0746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__045eEDE4E/U2QOKCrY6uI/AAAAAAAAAvk/bvLQGZUsZD8/s1600/IMG_0746.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Flatiron building and entrance to the subway where Broadway and 5th Ave intersect</td></tr>
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Friday evening we had tickets to see our first NBA game in Brooklyn. It was playoffs and the Brooklyn Nets were hosting the Toronto Raptors in Game 3 of the first round. We got there early to walk around the stadium and watch warm ups. It was cool see the court and players in real life and our seats weren't too bad, we could see the details. We had some food there and slowly other people started coming, but the stands were never packed. As we were cheering for Toronto we didn't get a warm reception from the Brooklyn fans surrounding us and although I enjoyed the game and it was close, I felt on edge and eager to leave Brooklyn. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JtzfZCKfqpk/U2QNvc67OlI/AAAAAAAAAt4/HcC4HC8rQhM/s1600/20140425_180048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JtzfZCKfqpk/U2QNvc67OlI/AAAAAAAAAt4/HcC4HC8rQhM/s1600/20140425_180048.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Brooklyn for our first NBA game ~ Brooklyn Nets vs Toronto Raptors in playoffs</td></tr>
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On Saturday morning we had done everything on my list, but one thing had been on my mind and so we took the Subway to the Brooklyn Bridge so that we could walk across it. It only took 20 minutes and it provided a nice vantage point to see the city. The skyline is broken in to 2 distinct scenes - Downtown with the World Trade Center and Midtown with the Empire State building. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHCOICK8_Hg/U2QN0eDcFJI/AAAAAAAAAuI/9nG9VTYJJK0/s1600/Bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHCOICK8_Hg/U2QN0eDcFJI/AAAAAAAAAuI/9nG9VTYJJK0/s1600/Bridge.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brooklyn Bridge ~ top left: Downtown skyline ~ bottom right: Midtown skyline ~ bottom left: we graffiti-ed the bridge (also made our mark in a Cuban bar in 2004)</td></tr>
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We then headed back on the subway without much time to spare before having to leave for the airport. However, we did have time to grab lunch at one place we almost forgot about, which was 2 blocks from our apartment. The famous <a href="http://originalsoupman.com/" target="_blank">Original Soup Man</a> (from the Seinfeld episode about the Soup Nazi). We have often referred to Matt's Dad in this way as he makes a particular soup most Sundays. So we bought him a mug. I had the lobster bisque and it was delicious soup and the perfect last meal in NYC. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3xzg8Bs0uVA/U2QOZQDr1KI/AAAAAAAAAw4/BivXZWiiQAA/s1600/Soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3xzg8Bs0uVA/U2QOZQDr1KI/AAAAAAAAAw4/BivXZWiiQAA/s1600/Soup.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Original Soup Man ~ Dad with his souvenir mug</td></tr>
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We took the subway to the airport as Matt had a pretty good handle on things by now using an app on his phone. We had to take a bus once we were in Queens, but it took us straight to the airport and we were on time with no problems flying out. From leaving the apartment to arriving in Okotoks, we had 15 hours of travel time. I don't mind traveling though, as I read 2 Globe and Mails cover to cover which is more news than I have read in years and watched 2 movies, the travel time is sort of down time. Except going through security, which is a pain especially when you have to do it twice in a one way trip. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C7XijVGoQUA/U2QOZ7AKk8I/AAAAAAAAAw8/_dJq45eCLDM/s1600/Subway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C7XijVGoQUA/U2QOZ7AKk8I/AAAAAAAAAw8/_dJq45eCLDM/s1600/Subway.jpg" height="376" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my attempt at an artsy picture with the moving subway blurred ~ a rare empty Subway car</td></tr>
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I really enjoyed our vacation as a time to getaway from the routine and just be together experiencing something different. Although it was a whirlwind and we packed our week full, looking back I have some great memories and stories to share. I am often asked, would I do it again? The answer is yes and no; yes if I hadn't done it I would do it over the same way; no in that there is so much else in this world I want to see. If life brings me back there I would go (and eat at Katz's). I do have a bit of a travel bug now and would love to take my kids places as they get older, but for now I have this experience in my back pocket and will cherish it. It was just the right amount of time to get away, but I did miss my kiddies and my dear Mom and sister can go back to work to have a break. We did everything I hoped and planned to do and more. We had leisurely mornings with breakfast in and relatively early nights as we didn't stay out late, but might have watched TV too late. We spent about $100 per day on food as a couple. Overall it wasn't as cheap as an all-inclusive trip, but we saved in someways and know we could have spent a lot more. I've said it before but Spring was the ideal time to go as in the summer it is way too hot to walk around and winter would be too cold to be outside as much as we were. I would recommend this trip and hope you found this review thorough if not interesting.</div>
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With a Bushel and a Peck of New York Memories,</div>
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But I have had an "A Ha" moment. It first occurred to me when I asked my husband if he ever reads the links I post on Facebook. I only share the articles/blogs/stories/videos that I find really impactful, many are related to motherhood, parenting or Christian faith life. He admitted that he didn't read many of them, understandably they are not targeted at him, but if they are important to me I like him to be aware. He felt that many of the "Mommy blogs" were along the same lines of women encouraging other women, sharing that they are not perfect moms either, that we're in this together and we need to keep it real with each other and stop comparing ourselves and always rely on God. I like to read things along these lines as I find them encouraging and a good reminder. And that's what occurred to me. That because I have a bad memory, or because I'm a frail human, I often read things that are written about similar subjects with a different twist by someone much more articulate than me, and I am inspired and comforted, even though it might be something I have processed before. <br />
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I have also been seeing the tag line "Preaching the Gospel to myself", and again it hit me. How often do I read a passage of scripture, a devotion, hear a sermon or read a book or article that seems so fresh and enlightening to me, when I have probably heard it before. That's the power of scripture. It is meant to be read over and over and it will impact you differently at different times. Even the most simple truths can be so powerful when you come across them at a different time. I heard a great metaphor the other day in my women's Bible study "Coffee Break". A wise sister shared that it's like eating, we need to do it every day and even if we don't remember what we ate last week, it was still vital to our health. Even if we don't remember the details of the sermon or the exact words of the scripture, when we heard it, it fed us and was important for our spiritual growth. There will never be a time when we are done eating, learning, reading, etc. I wish I could remember the words and citation of the passage I'm thinking of, but I know that I will spend my whole life reading and hearing the Word and it will always be fresh and exciting to me. <br />
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The amazing thing is that although this is "news to me", it is a universal truth. God is constantly telling us to remember in scripture, because He knows how forgetful we are. We celebrate annual holy days, to remember. We go to church weekly, to remember. We read the history of God's people and His faithfulness, to remember. We celebrate the sacriments, to remember. We do daily personal devotion, to remember.<br />
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In conclusion, I will "preach to myself", a few of the truths that I keep coming back to and find the most encouraging in my daily walk.<br />
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<ul>
<li>God's grace is sufficient for me, for His power is made perfect in weakness</li>
<li>I am not supposed to be in control and do it on my own - only the Holy Spirit can sanctify me</li>
<li>I am not meant to live a comfortable life - God wants me to be constantly dependent on Him</li>
<li>I am to be content and thankful in all circumstances</li>
<li>Worry is unbelief; anxiety is not acknowledging God's plan</li>
<li>Don't compare yourself to others - we all have different gifts and abilities </li>
<li>Be Humble - don't think less of yourself but think of yourself less</li>
<li>Don't try to be super mom/do everything - do a few things well</li>
</ul>
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With a Bushel and a Peck of blissful ignorance,<br />
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Stephanie Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-799823130093560422013-12-16T20:17:00.000-08:002013-12-16T20:17:37.813-08:00Cute as a Button Shortbread CookiesChristmas is next week! I am feeling really excited and not stressed at all this year. I've been enjoying decorating and baking and going to Christmas concerts and parties. I don't have a stand by, make every year, Christmas baking recipe yet, but I'm working on it. My husband loves shortbread. I don't mind it but it's not irresistible to me. But that's OK, then I can keep my fingers out of the cookie jar. I wanted to try something a little more fun for the ones that I would be sharing. Here's what I came up with...<br />
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I used a standard shortbread recipe<br />
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2 cups butter<br />
1 cup icing sugar<br />
3 cups flour<br />
1 cup cornstarch<br />
2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
<ul>
<li>Cream together butter and icing sugar</li>
<li>Combine flour and cornstarch - add to butter and mix until smooth without over-mixing</li>
<li>Add vanilla while mixing </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Divide dough into 2 equal portions</li>
<li>Using Wilton Icing Color, add the desired color to each section and knead in until blended</li>
<li>Wrap each ball in plastic wrap and chill for 30 min (can be frozen and used at a later time)</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>When ready to bake, preheat oven to 300 F and line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper </li>
</ul>
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<li>Between 2 sheets of parchment, roll out the first color until about 1/4 inch thick (if your dough is over chilled, you might have to let it rest at room temp for a while or you will hurt yourself trying to roll it out) </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Using a larger circle cutter (mine was about 3") cut out 12 rounds and place on cookie sheet</li>
</ul>
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<li>Using a smaller circle cutter (about 2") cut out the middles and place on a separate sheet</li>
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<li>Put the first tray back in the fridge while you roll out your second color and cut out the shapes </li>
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<li>If your rings crack like mine did you can gently press them back together before baking </li>
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<li>Put the opposite color center in each ring</li>
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<li>Using a straw, poke out 2 (or 4) holes in each middle</li>
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<ul>
<li>I kept one sheet in the fridge as I worked so they are chilled when they go in the oven and won't spread out</li>
<li>Bake at 300 F for 12 min (Don't over bake)</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Allow to rest on cookie sheet for a couple minutes before transferring to a cooling rack</li>
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This made 5 dozen with a few to taste.<br />
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I think I'll add this to the annual baking list. They could be done in any color combo and used for any occasion; baby shower perhaps?<br />
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With a Bushel and a Peck of Christmas Baking,<br />
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Stephanie<br />
<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-63950968934266013672013-12-02T20:21:00.000-08:002013-12-02T20:21:39.517-08:00No Perfect PicturesMy son is in Grade 1. I had a bit of a hard time with him going to school every day. To be honest, it's a little easier when he's gone, just one less variable. But I do miss him and I feel like my days of being the major influence in his life are dwindling. If he hasn't learned it yet then when will I have a chance to teach him? Today is a day off school. So far it has been chalk full of teachable moments. Although challenging, I am just bursting with praise to God that I still have the opportunities to speak into my son's young life. I pray and hope that what has transpired today impacts him in a lasting way.<br />
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It started off with him hitting his sister. Dad stepped in with the discipline and told him he wouldn't get his colouring supplies back until he was being more kind. He felt remorseful for a time but then made another bad choice. The older 2 had been reading a kid's story book Bible together and having a great time. My daughter was saying "Jesus is awesome" and my son saying "reading the Bible is so fun!" But in no time, the little sister became implicated and my son lashed out. How quickly they/we stray. After being sent to his room for a time, he prayed for forgiveness and self control. This led to an enthusiastic idea to write the fruits of the Spirit down so they don't forget. He got out the papers and markers (with permission), and included his sisters. It was all going well; pictures of fruit accompanied by words; until he made a mistake. He crumpled it up and threw it in the garbage. At this point it had been a really careful and nice picture and the mistake was minor.<br />
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The connection to God just came so seamlessly. "God doesn't expect you to be perfect, and I don't expect your picture to be perfect. God loves you the way you are and he never crumples you up and throws you in the garbage". This was a long process of reitterating the same idea until he finally came around to cutting off the mistake. It was still crumpled but had potential. I told him he had to finish it and I would hang it on the wall as planned. I told him he had to learn perseverence (finishing something without quiting).<br />
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When it was finally coloured, I hung it up as promised, and told him I loved the picture just like God loved him. He said that he thought the mistake was too big and I said that there is no mistake too big for God to forgive. He was very upset at this time and hard to console, but I took the time to pray with him for peace. He was very concerned that God lets bad things happen. Again the teachable moment came: that God doesn't want us to do things perfectly by ourselves, otherwise we wouldn't need Him. God wants us to rely on him and trust him. His strength is made perfect in our weakness.<br />
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This message came through loud and clear to me today. Even as a write this, my son is moping about, feeling contrite, but I think it's OK. I keep telling him that he is in control of his choices, to have a good attitude, to choose to be kind, to choose to trust God. Even as I say this I know that without the Holy Spirit, our own efforts are futile, but to pray and contemplate the fruits of the Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control, can keep your mind on track. If I had taken a different approach today, to let him throw out his picture and move on with the day, I might have missed this opportunity to teach him and bond with him. He's at an age where we can communicate on a deeper level and this is exciting to me. I hope and pray that the times he is home, I can connect with him, to make up for all the time that he is away.<br />
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With a Bushel and a Peck of Gladness,<br />
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StephanieStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-40278172421953345582013-12-01T21:02:00.003-08:002013-12-01T21:02:54.015-08:00A Birch Wood Advent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is the first Sunday of Advent and December 1, which makes it a full 24 days till Christmas. I am so excited for Advent this year as we are trying to establish family traditions surrounding it; for counting down and contemplating. Last year was the first year I really made point to not only count down the days with the kids with their<a href="http://www.bushellandapeck.blogspot.ca/2012/11/christmas-countdown-candy-calendar.html" target="_blank"> Candy Calendar</a>, but read daily devotions and focused on the meaning of the season. <br />
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This year for my 30th birthday my husband gave me a book by Ann Voskamp called "The Greatest Gift". This was 2 weeks ago, and I had never heard of Ann Voskamp. Wow, where had I been? Rural Canadian mom of 6 turns New York Times best seller. I'm impressed. Read some of her blog, <a href="http://www.aholyexpeience.com/">A Holy Experience,</a> and I'm inspired. <br />
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However, beyond the author is the story of the Jesse Tree, which I had never heard of. It is another way to mark the days of Advent and see how the entire Bible has been leading to the coming of Christ. It is made up of daily readings and ornaments and I am excited to begin this journey and share it with my family. Ann had offered free printable ornaments on her website with a code found in the book (sorry, can't share). But I thought, if this is something I am going to do every year (because it seemed that cool to me) then I want an ornament I can keep. <br />
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I've been really in to birch wood lately, and I had some from a tree we cut down. I asked my husband (and he so sweetly obliged), to cut a log in to 25 disks. I then printed the 2x2" symbols on card stock, and Modge Podged them to the wood. I also wrote the corresponding Bible verse with each one as an added reminder of the association behind the symbol. I used red ribbon to make a hanger as the Word is connected by a Scarlet cord. <br />
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Today I read the first devotional with my family, it is so beautifully written. My son in Grade 1 had heard about the Jesse Tree in school (love Christian school!) and he hung the first ornament on the bottom and we will work our way up to Christ. <br />
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Here I have all 25 displayed temporarily. I decided to use my actual Christmas tree as our Jesse Tree as I think the ornaments are beautiful, meaningful and will fill up the tree nicely. I'll come back and post a finished picture at the end of the month. <br />
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Continuing with my affinity for birch wood, my husband broke out the tools again by drilling holes into this log to make an advent candle holder. I hadn't found anything I liked online or in stores, and this was simple enough yet visually impactful to me. <br />
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And finally, nothing to do with Advent, but I used some more birch logs, and some thrift store finds, to make this display for my front step. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jXFH27pcoWs/UpwDc109YGI/AAAAAAAAAsA/LdvV3SwyoaE/s1600/IMG_9733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jXFH27pcoWs/UpwDc109YGI/AAAAAAAAAsA/LdvV3SwyoaE/s1600/IMG_9733.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This Advent I am going to try to focus on Peace
and Thankfulness and not get caught up in the busy or
buying. I love Ann Voskamp's line, "put space in the pace of the season and find peace." Remembering to be thankful for what we already have and for what is sure to come; to have high expectations for the coming of Jesus over what comes in wrapping and bows. <br />
<br />
With a Barrel and a Heap of Waiting,<br />
<br />
Stephanie<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-32757052300746842962013-11-21T12:01:00.000-08:002013-11-21T12:01:47.349-08:00Crochet Soother Chain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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2 posts in one day – Wow, I must really be avoiding
cleaning. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Here’s a very simple crochet pattern – it only takes about ½
an hour and voila – your baby has a decorative and functional soother chain,
easily washed and can be remade when it gets too ratty.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-04odPk10T_s/Uo5ko9VFxXI/AAAAAAAAArc/kCtzf8TdQ30/s1600/IMG_9694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-04odPk10T_s/Uo5ko9VFxXI/AAAAAAAAArc/kCtzf8TdQ30/s1600/IMG_9694.JPG" height="320" width="224" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
I haven’t written many patterns so forgive me as I try to
explain it as best I can and use a few pictures to help explain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hope you can figure it out – it’s pretty
versatile and you can make it to your own technique too once you have the
concept.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<u>Crochet Soother Chain with Flower</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<u>Supplies</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Cotton Yarn (doesn’t pill, washes well, kind of a pain to
work with)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
3.75 mm hook</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Button with loop on the back</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Suspender clip (found at the sewing store and took it apart
so I was left with the clasp)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Chain 50.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Count back from your hook 15 ch and join with single crochet.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Continue sc until you reach the end.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Join your flower colour (leave a long string for sewing).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Work 8 hdc in a circle around the last sc in the chain.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Join to first hdc with slip stitch.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
*Work 3 dc in same hdc, sl st to next ch* repeat
from * to* finish off.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Attach your button and clasp by sewing through repeatedly
until it feels secure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Weave in ends.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i0J3k2dki-s/Uo5i-WgqpkI/AAAAAAAAAqY/XDDv8XX3qzs/s1600/IMG_9687.JPG" height="154" width="320" /><br />
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Crochet fun,<br />
<br />
Stephanie<br />
<br />
<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-90051172098372186552013-11-21T08:53:00.001-08:002013-11-21T08:53:37.677-08:00Under the Sea Birthday Party <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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I haven’t blogged anything in a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life has been full and fun but maybe not
anything notable or inspiring to write about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We did have a busy birthday season last month with my one year old,
followed by my Father-in-law’s 65<sup>th</sup> and then my 3 year old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a busy three weeks filled with
decorating, baking and celebrating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
particularly loved my 3 year old’s birthday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Considering she is child #3 and was turning 3 on October 3, I thought
she should get as special a party as possible (and I shouldn’t slack off just
cause I overdid it with the first one’s and now I’m feeling “done” with
elaborate birthdays).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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I’ve always
thought birthdays are special and a time for each child to be in the
spotlight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cate was on a Nemo kick for a
long time so I had been thinking about an under the sea party for a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, she recently changed allegiance to
Little Mermaid, but it was still along the lines I was planning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I chose to not over do the “Disney” aspect
and went with the “<u>Under the Sea</u>” theme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span> </div>
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My patient and wonderful husband put up the streamers the night before
while I finished the cake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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I tried
to keep it simple as the kids are only 3 (some still 2 ½).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I opted to do a drop off party, even though
they are still young, I had enough adult helpers and it is easier to focus on
the kids if you aren’t trying to entertain the parents as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus our house would be too full and it was
too chilly for an outside party.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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We
started with a relatively simple <u>craft</u>, but since they are so young they
needed a lot of adult help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought
this was so fun, unique and could be done with many different materials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fmtVKklVj1g/Uo4t6OFb2VI/AAAAAAAAApU/jc6uHb3T-98/s1600/IMG_9448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fmtVKklVj1g/Uo4t6OFb2VI/AAAAAAAAApU/jc6uHb3T-98/s1600/IMG_9448.JPG" height="320" width="309" /></a><u>Fish bowl art</u></div>
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Supplies:</div>
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Sandwich plastic bags</div>
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Pre-cut blue card stock</div>
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Pre-cut fish shape</div>
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Pre-cut fin shapes</div>
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Googly eyes</div>
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Bendaroos (waxy string) cut in half</div>
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Rice</div>
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Glue sticks (1 per 2 kids)</div>
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We handed out the supplies one at a time and let the kids assemble
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can see my 6 year old’s is
what it was supposed to look like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
other is my 3 year olds creative flare coming through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They don’t care if it’s perfect, it’s just
something fun to do and take home.</div>
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Next we did <u>cake</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I kept
it pretty simple as kids don’t tend to eat a lot of cake and I have thrown out
a lot of <a href="http://www.bushellandapeck.blogspot.ca/2013/05/cakes.html" target="_blank">cake</a> in the past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids
each got a cupcake and the small cake was left over for the next day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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We played a few simple <u>games</u>:</div>
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my teacher husband put his creative juices into "<u>Pin the Tentacle on the Jelly fish</u>". </div>
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There was also, <u>pass the tissue paper ball</u> (wrap a candy in
a layer of tissue paper and add candy in different coloured paper until you
have a big ball with enough candy for each kid.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You pass it around the circle while the music
is playing and whoever is holding it when the music stops gets to rip off one
layer and eat a candy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pretty simple but
still needed guidance at this age to keep it going.</div>
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I had a bit of a <u>fishing station</u> set up with dollar store
rods and magnetic creatures. And there was a <u>bean bag toss.</u> </div>
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For <u>lunch </u>it was fun and kid friendly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Octopus hot dogs</u> (simply cut half into 6 and
boil, they curl up nicely).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Grapes on a
stick</u> (cause anything on a stick is fun).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><u>Fish in Jello cups</u> (these didn’t look as good as I hoped, the gummy fish
got really slimy).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Rainbow fish
crackers</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And <u>juice </u>(coloured blue with
food colouring).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kids don’t tend to eat
much at parties so be prepared to throw out leftovers.</div>
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We then had a bit of a <u>gift </u>opening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then the party moved outside to whack the
<u>piñata</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t always get a piñata but
my kids have learned to associate parties with piñatas and this was Cate’s
first one, she was so excited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
little kids couldn’t break it and even the big kids didn’t do much damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end we dumped out the candy and the piñata
hangs in her room intact.</div>
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This was one of the least stressed I felt about a party and
it went off without a hitch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so glad
I could give my little girl the party of her dreams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">With a Bushell & a Peck of Party Time,</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Stephanie </span></div>
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<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-67499272348835010222013-10-01T19:18:00.000-07:002013-10-01T19:18:55.492-07:00When I am weak...He delights in meMotherhood, like the Christian journey, is a process of dying to the
old and finding joy in the new. There is a steady tension there but
gradually, the things we struggle with will give way
to new traits that we didn't think possible when we started
out.<br />
<br />
I am 6 1/2 years in with 4 children now and the things that were hard
with the first aren't as hard with the fourth, but I still struggle with
some things over and over. For example, I am finally getting up before the kids and getting my shower in, which does help our morning routine go smoother. However, that impatient, angry outburst side of me keeps rearing it's ugly head, even though I think I should be better than that by now. The key here, I am realizing, is not trying harder to get better or do better, it is in admitting that I am weak and in need of grace.<br />
<br />
I have been trying to figure things out for the past few weeks; my role as a Homemaker, how to best utilize my time, how to be on top of things and feel in control. After all, this gig should be getting easier as the kids grow up and some are at school sometimes right? But over the past couple of days I have been <strike>bashed over the head</strike> reminded in reading, in preaching and in prayer that God is my strength. When I'm feeling weak, out of control, over thinking things and trying
to figure it all out, God says I am strong, I am in control, I have a
plan and I want you to lay it all down.<br />
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” <i>2 Corinthians 12:9</i><br />
<br />
I know my calling is to be a Homemaker, it is what I have chosen and it works for our family. I have always wanted to be there for my kids when they are home and a constant in their life. I love the idea of volunteering at school and making things that I see on Pinterest, just because it's special (not necessary). However, reality is either more than I can manage or, I even catch myself thinking I'm not doing enough, <a href="http://www.thebettermom.com/2013/09/27/secrets-of-a-productive-mom/" target="_blank">how can I be more productive?</a> I feel lost, overwhelmed, and anxious on bad days and found, confident and peaceful on good days. I'm not sure this will ever go away, but I do know that God is my constant.<br />
<br />
God doesn't want us to find a place of comfort and stay there. He will
always find a way to challenge us and grow us, even if it seems like
we're just getting good at something or life is nice right now. "Anything that I felt capable of doing, God will both make it seem
impossible and simultaneously ask me to do it. And there I am – in the
sweetest place you can ever be – relying on Him. Walking in faith.
Living in joy." (Excerpt from Rachel Jankovic at <a href="http://www.feminagirls.com/2013/09/30/gel-pen-faith/#more-5947" target="_blank">Femina</a>). He will provide for us "...<span class="text Ps-84-7" id="en-NIV-15267">from strength to strength" <i>Psalm 84:7</i>. I also know that my strength will be renewed and my day laid
out more clearly, if I seek God in prayer and Bible reading. When neglecting, those 2 things how quickly my attitude, actions and
relationships spiral out of control. Again, it has been made clear to
me lately that these things should be a priority in my day and God will
bless me through them. They should not be a duty or a chore, but my
life-line and desire.</span> <br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Thess-1-11" id="en-NIV-29661">"With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith." <i>2 Thessalonians 1:11</i></span><br />
<span class="text 2Thess-1-11" id="en-NIV-29661"><br /></span>
<span class="text 2Thess-1-11" id="en-NIV-29661">This is my prayer, not that I can fill my day with busy tasks, but that God may bless my desire to do my job well and faithfully, always seeking His guidance and will.</span><span class="text 2Thess-1-11" id="en-NIV-29661"> I am trying to take every thought
captive, make every emotion accountable, make every action obedient, to
the God of grace, to Christ who saves. </span><br />
<span class="text 2Thess-1-11" id="en-NIV-29661"> </span> <br />
It may seem unnatural to admit weakness and to be submissive, but the Lord loves the poor of spirit and the contrite heart, whose only hope is found in Him. <br />
<br />
<span class="text Jer-9-23">"Let not the wise boast of their wisdom</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Jer-9-23">or the strong boast of their strength</span></span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Jer-9-23">or the rich boast of their riches,</span></span><span class="text Jer-9-24" id="en-NIV-19200"><sup class="versenum"> </sup></span><br />
<span class="text Jer-9-24" id="en-NIV-19200"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>but let the one who boasts boast about this:</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Jer-9-24">that they have the understanding to know me,</span></span><br />
<span class="text Jer-9-24">that I am the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, who exercises kindness,</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Jer-9-24">justice and righteousness on earth,</span></span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Jer-9-24">for in these I delight,”</span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24">declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>."</span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24"> <i>Jeremiah 9:23 </i></span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24"><br /></span></span>
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24">My only reason, meaning, purpose is to delight in the Lord, because He first delighted in me. </span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24"><br /></span></span>
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24">"He rescued me, because he delighted in me." Psalm 18:19</span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24"><br /></span></span>
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24">With a Bushel and a Peck of Delight,</span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24"><br /></span></span>
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24">Stephanie</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Jer-9-24">Linking up with <a href="https://www.blogger.com/div%20align=%22center%22%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/category/grace-laced-mondays/%22%20title=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/uploads/2012/10/GL-Mondays.jpg%22%20alt=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%20style=%22border:none;%22%20/%3E%3C/a%3E%3C/div%3E" target="_blank">Grace Laced</a> today, with a poignant post about Mom Anger and as always, going back to the Word.</span></span>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-44542458071294772742013-09-20T10:45:00.002-07:002013-10-15T13:51:45.128-07:00Fall Wreath<div style="text-align: left;">
It rained the other day, I mean thunder and wind and pouring rain
storm. Up until then it had been hot and dry and I was not at all in
the mood for fall. However, one cool, grey day was all it took for me
to get in the fall decorating spirit. I had pinned a wreath I wanted to
make a long time ago so I was excited to finally get to it. Here is
the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93952197/rustic-burlap-ivory-and-jute-wreath-love" target="_blank">link </a>so
you know that I am truly not that creative. I always need an
inspiration, or starting point for anything crafty to come out of me.
However, I did put my own twist on it and am so thrilled with it. It is
fall without being orange and leafy. It is serene and lovely if
I do say so myself.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9rE1QE0K2g/Ujx58W57TWI/AAAAAAAAAkI/CwIpbKWnUYw/s1600/IMG_9094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9rE1QE0K2g/Ujx58W57TWI/AAAAAAAAAkI/CwIpbKWnUYw/s400/IMG_9094.JPG" /> </a></div>
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I am not going to write a tutorial, as I was so in the zone just making it that I didn't take pictures of the process. But since I figured it out from a picture, I'm sure anyone could do the same. I started by looking up how to make burlap flowers. I followed a few guidelines from the sites below, however mine mostly became their own as I played. There was a bit of sewing involved but mostly a lot of hot glue. It only took an hour and a half to make the flowers. </div>
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http://craftingmom.com/burlap-flowers/</div>
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http://www.withoutahitch.co.uk/blog/?p=105</div>
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http://daisymaebelle.com/how-to-make-a-burlap-flower/</div>
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http://todaysfabulousfinds.blogspot.ca/2010/11/3-burlap-flower-tutorials.html </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkE3lt1hgGw/Ujx7_S-qatI/AAAAAAAAAlU/qyrs0CP_T3U/s1600/IMG_9095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkE3lt1hgGw/Ujx7_S-qatI/AAAAAAAAAlU/qyrs0CP_T3U/s1600/IMG_9095.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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I like the detail of having our family initial in the wreath - makes it more personal I think. I had seen <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78019133/jute-monogram-wreath-with-book-page?ref=sr_gallery_21&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=monogram+wreath&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_ship_to=US&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade" target="_blank">twine wrapped around a letter</a> before so after thinking about it, I found a foamy letter in my kids toys and started wrapping. It took a while but I could sit and do it while the kids played.</div>
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The majority of supplies were from Michaels, including the purple flowers in the scrap-booking section and the pearls in the beading section. I used a roll of burlap that was on sale for $4.99 and I still have lots left. I'd say this was easily under $20 and about 4 hours of work.<br />
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I am so excited about this, it has consumed my mind for a couple of days but now that it's finished I can rest and enjoy.<br />
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I also added a few fall decorations inside. These were mostly given to my by my mother-in-law, found at the dollar store or using what I had at home.<br />
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I must admit, I have burlap fever and have a few more ideas of things to cover with burlap, but we'll see what I get around to (and if I have a place to put anything). I like decorating for the seasons as long as it doesn't become clutter. </div>
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I also really want to find some black urns and white pumpkins for my door step. Again, we'll see if this happens within a reasonable budget. </div>
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Thanks for stopping by to check out my page.</div>
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Here are a few variations that I made for friends - I didn't have all the same supplies so I got to be creative. A wreath is a great way to bless someone who has been a blessing to you.<br />
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With a Bushel and a Peck of Autumn Blessings,</div>
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Stephanie </div>
Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-58056747372897820562013-09-12T19:35:00.000-07:002013-10-01T13:18:49.175-07:00Be Still and KnowI have been feeling a little unsettled the past couple of weeks. My teacher husband and kids are back to school. The calendar is full, but very little of it is for me. I have a lot to remember and stay on top of, but nothing really exciting going on. Now I should also clarify that there is nothing wrong in my life at all, so this isn't meant to be a sob story.<br />
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I was so excited for this year; on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons I have 3 kids in school and 1 napping - this is a golden schedule. But I feel a little lost. I am not pregnant or nursing, so I don't have an excuse to nap anymore, but a whole day at home can be a little blah. Housework is rather uninspiring and I am not overly motivated. Maybe it's a transition period and in a bit more time I'll get in the swing of things, but I don't want to leave it at that. I want to use this as a learning process. Most of the time I am busy as I tend to take on extra projects and activities throughout the year. I tend to get anxious and overwhelmed. I am not anxious or overwhelmed right now. I think I feel God telling me that it's ok to not be busy. That I am not useless when my to do list isn't full. There is a season for everything, and I'm sure this slow season won't last. In fact if I was smart I would be right on top of my house projects and odd jobs that I won't have time for later. But, I don't think that's the point. I need to learn to slow down, to "Be still and know.."<br />
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I still have 2 or 3 little ones at home most days. I just think that they are generally good at playing on their own and my cleaning standards have dropped over the years, so I don't feel like I need to entertain them or be picking up every out of place thing. I have always struggled to find balance and now I am in a position to enjoy the balance. I know that I am where I am supposed to be, "my mission field at the kitchen counter" (taken from <a href="http://www.gracelaced.com/2013/09/11/a-few-things-well/" target="_blank">Grace Laced</a>). I am not going to rush out and get a job or volunteer for everything that comes my way, cause then I'm back to the anxious, overwhelmed and certainly not balanced.<br />
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My kids are young and need me and will continue to need me when they leave and come home from school, to tell someone their successes and failures, to cheer them on and to cry with them. I want to be that Mom that is home when the kids are. But I also have the desire to feel useful, and some days when the only thing on my to do list is "do something with a giant zucchini", it's hard to see the significance of that. But I know that there is only one to whom I am accountable for my time, and that's not my husband (he, by the way, never demands on me or asks for an account of my time). God is my boss and if my heart is right with Him, then I will see the importance of my task.<br />
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Now there is a basket of laundry to fold, kids to be picked up from school and dinner to start - there is still busy, but in my perspective it's a manageable busy. If I really think about it, there are a number of ways I can fill my time to justify what I do with my day, but I think the key here is to be still, to rest, to wait and to know...God is in control, he has a plan and I have a purpose.<br />
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Balance,<br />
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Stephanie<br />
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Post Script - It is the day after I wrote this; I am glad I sorted through these thoughts and took the time to write them down as I know I will go through this stage again. Life has a way of repeating itself in "seasons" or "cycles" and it is good to remember, learn and grow. I have had a good couple of days, I feel at peace in my mind and heart. I've gone for a walk 2 evenings in a row and listened to a sermon, it was so freeing and energizing. I got the house cleaned today but didn't get too worked up or crazy about it. Took some time to pray and read the Bible today. In going through my Bible I found a devotion my Mother-in-law had printed out for me shortly after we were married and it was so timely (love when God works like that). I just want to quote a couple of lines which relate to me right now...<br />
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"The main end of life is not to do, but to become." F.B. Meyer<br />
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"Our days are wasted, or so it appears. We feel as if we are doing nothing of lasting significance. But God is doing what matters - we are being refined. He is placing us into a crucible in which we acquire patience, meekness, humility, compassion, and the other "quiet" virtues our souls naturally lack. So don't be afraid and don't fret." David Roper<br />
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Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-38208621031011559392013-09-04T18:37:00.001-07:002013-09-09T08:42:13.846-07:00Rest in the BedroomOur bedroom was the absolutely last room to be touched in our house with a decorative touch. I didn't mind so much, but had on occasion longed for more of a sanctuary.<br />
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I knew that it had to start with a bed spread. You can't pick a colour pallet until you find a duvet cover to match it to. I don't know much about decorating but that little piece of advice is important.<br />
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Our room was very beige before. Walls and comforter. (Sorry no before pics). I wanted a bed spread with a pop of colour, but something timeless. I found one at <a href="http://www.quiltsetc.com/" target="_blank">Quilt's Etc.</a> Still a lot of beige but offering a colour pallet to work with. They also sold the drapes to add colour to the window wall and we used the same blue for a feature wall.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.quiltsetc.com/Bedding/Duvet_Covers_Sets/Print_Embroidery/Carlingdale_Flame_Tree_Collection/Department.aspx?DeptID=187&productid=922&fromdeptid=3&" target="_blank">Duvet Cover: "Flame Tree"</a></td></tr>
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And then my wonderful and "learning-to-be-handy-despite-it-not-coming-naturally" husband took on the project of adding the "faux" wainscoting. He used trim and painted it and voila - it adds a decorative wall and replaces the need for a head board.<br />
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The other inspiration I had was to have some rich wood in the room. I have often seen<a href="http://www.blessedlifeatopacakestand.com/2012/12/keeping-fun-in-marriage.html" target="_blank"> pallet art that I love</a> and wanted to imitate, but make my own. We picked up some free crate lids from an add on Kijiji - they were in decent shape but very blonde wood. I used Minwax Red Mohogany Wood Finish - just one coat was the perfect colour. Then I coated it with Minwax Polycrylic Clear Satin.<br />
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Now the tricky part. The quote. I wanted the wood to stand out so I didn't want to cover it with words. I thought about a bedroom and thought of either Love or Rest. My husband thought love was to cliche so I was just going to put the word Rest on it. But he thought about it some more and being the "involved-in-the-decorating" type (which I totally appreciate), found the quote; "Our hearts are restless, Lord, until they Rest in thee." <i>Augustine</i>. I planned it out using my Creative Memories software (so sad they are closing down). <br />
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I was really hesitant about the actual painting of the words. I didn't want it to look sloppy. I got a really stiff and fine angled paint brush. I debated about how to get the words on to the board, either using a projector or an ink transfer which I'd seen on Pinterest and DID NOT WORK. I ended up printing out the words in the font and size I wanted them and then rubbing the back of the paper with chalk. Then using the end of the paint brush traced over all the letters on to the board. This worked so well and the letters looked crisp. But then my wobbly hand ruined that. It was so hard. It ended up pretty wonky and I wasn't really happy with it. I went over it a few more times, of course it ended up bolder than I had intended, but in the end only I know the imperfections and it is satisfactory for amateur art.<br />
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I am happy now that it is hung. To do this my husband mounted a board to the back of the pallet and then put heavy duty hooks on it, to which he hung from screws in the studs (still praying it doesn't come crashing down on us at night). We still have a plan for a frame wall on the other wall, but for now I am at rest in my room and of course comforted by the reminder to Rest in the Lord.<br />
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Rest,<br />
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Stephanie<br />
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Linking up with <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Cdiv%20align=%22center%22%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/category/grace-laced-mondays/%22%20title=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/uploads/2012/10/GL-Mondays.jpg%22%20alt=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%20style=%22border:none;%22%20/%3E%3C/a%3E%3C/div%3E" target="_blank">Grace Laced </a>- a beautiful post about decluttering your home and mind - keeping your focus on the LordStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-22765492658077090482013-09-03T13:42:00.000-07:002013-09-20T12:48:54.416-07:00It's Back to School Time - Lunches for Both Husband and KidsWhat I am about to share is not revolutionary, but it is one of those good ideas that I wouldn't have thought of unless someone else shared it with me. I have not been very consistent at making my husband's lunch over the years. In many homes I'm sure this is a point of contention; who does it? But my job is to take care of my home and family and this includes his lunch. He feels loved when I do this for him and I feel better than if he grabs fast food. Being that he's a teacher, he has the option of using a microwave, so I have often packed leftovers, however, he is busy and the time to heat something up, especially if it's frozen, is not always the best for him. I hate making sandwiches. I am just getting in to having a kid in school every day so that is a whole new job to make a school lunch, but so far my son took a peanut butter sandwich every day of kindergarten (by request). This is not husband lunch food. I hate getting out all the condiments and what not, especially in the morning. I know many people do this at night, but I haven't gotten in that routine yet. Anyway, it was suggested to me to make a batch of subs to put in the freezer. You can take them out the night before and then in the morning add any fresh toppings or put it in as is in the morning frozen and by lunch it's perfect. My husband doesn't mind eating the same thing every day so it's been easy for me. Here are a few steps and pics.<br />
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I go to a local bakery I like and get a dozen small sub buns (or large and cut them in half). I get 2 types of deli meat (usually ham and turkey are his favourites).<br />
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Then assembly - pretty straight forward. Lay out the buns.<br />
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Spread margarine on one side and cheese on the other.<br />
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Add your deli meat - I do 6 of each type of meat so he gets one of each per lunch for a little variety.<br />
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Wrap in either a sandwich bag (if the sub is the right size) or Saran wrap.</div>
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Put them all in a large bag and put them in the freezer. </div>
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It's grab and go in the mornings. Or like I said, take them out the night before and then open them up and add toppings like lettuce, pickles, cucumbers, etc. I have put on mayo and mustard before freezing and it has worked fine. This has saved me time and gaurantees my husband gets a much needed lunch every day.</div>
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On another note, with the oldest going in to Gr. 1 - I wanted to offer a little more variety than the old peanut butter every day. So I came up with a bit of a chart to keep on my fridge and give me ideas. Here it is. I am not in to fancy and complicated, but I want to keep things healthy and tasty.</div>
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Hopefully this will give someone else a fresh idea and make this "chore" a little easier.</div>
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With a Bushel and a Peck of love from the kitchen,</div>
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Stephanie</div>
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Linking Up with the <a href="http://www.thebettermom.com/2013/09/08/nurturing-love-between-siblings/" target="_blank">Better Mom</a> - a great post about nurturing the friendships between your kids</div>
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<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-69763010970509789782013-06-10T13:56:00.004-07:002013-06-10T14:03:43.118-07:00Work and Rest - God's Perfect Week<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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I was very encouraged by a particular part of our sermon yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was about the Sabbath and how Jesus took ownership of and restored the Sabbath to open up the access to the presence of God and point to the eternal Sabbath. I am
not going to get in to the ins and outs of Sabbath keeping, except to say that
God created us to work 6 days and gave us the 7<sup>th</sup> as a <b>Day of
Rest</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When done for legalistic reasons,
the Sabbath can be a real drag, but when seen as part of God’s perfect plan,
the way He created us to live, it is a <b>blessing</b>.</div>
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Now I want to focus on the first part;<i> “<span class="text">Six days you shall
labor and do all your work…” </span></i><span class="text">Deuteronomy 5:13</span></div>
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<span class="text">Our Pastor noted that we were created to work and that our
primary reason for working is not to bring home a pay-cheque, but to<b> glorify and
serve God</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found this hugely encouraging
as a Stay-at-home-Mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So often these
days, in our society, work is not valued unless it is for income. Many women
feel the need to “contribute” to the family by working, whether from home,
being an entrepreneur, doing a little something on the side, or even outside of
the home while they arrange alternate care for their children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> I’m not going to talk about whether
you choose to work or not, make a supplemental or even the primary income.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is about validating that the unpaid work of a Stay-at-home-Mom counts! </span></div>
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<span class="text">I definitely work, and no one will deny the work involved in
raising children and maintaining a home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p9ZCda6XVf4/UbYypKd9SeI/AAAAAAAAAdg/wQHHRkrLNUM/s1600/IMG_7283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p9ZCda6XVf4/UbYypKd9SeI/AAAAAAAAAdg/wQHHRkrLNUM/s1600/IMG_7283.JPG" height="224" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>But it still needs to be acknowledged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am doing the work that God has called me to
at this stage in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And whether or
not I go back to work for pay when my kids are in school or become a volunteer
for my kid’s school, I will still be working.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">My days are full and busy, that is mostly true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does blowing bubbles with my kids count as
work? Does writing a blog (debatable ;). </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OjDEs786REk/UbYyuXnai7I/AAAAAAAAAdw/fyA_I4Qf8ys/s1600/IMG_7298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OjDEs786REk/UbYyuXnai7I/AAAAAAAAAdw/fyA_I4Qf8ys/s1600/IMG_7298.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">Although the to-do list is never ending, there is a lot of
fun to be had at the same time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do your
work <b>faithfully </b>and take it <b>seriously</b>, but <b>enjoy it</b> all the while.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">On another note, I have been pretty in to reading other
people’s blogs lately and am just becoming aware of this phenomenon that is
blogging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, reading about how to
be a “Better Mom” is quite ironic if I am taking time away from my family to
read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to be careful to <b>guard my
time.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">I also want to give a shout out to Moms with kids at home
who are baking another bun in the tummy oven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You are doing your work on the inside – take it easy and let your
expectations down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t do it all, so
don’t try and let other people help you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a precious time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">Once again I want to say what a blessing the Sabbath
is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When taken as a day of rest and worship
after an honest 6 day work week, it is truly refreshing, renewing and rejuvenating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPsneRcE410/UbYyt43uibI/AAAAAAAAAdo/i9Zk_w8PSYs/s1600/IMG_7300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPsneRcE410/UbYyt43uibI/AAAAAAAAAdo/i9Zk_w8PSYs/s1600/IMG_7300.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">Remember to do all you do for the glory of God and accept
his gift of Sabbath Rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is His
perfect will, how could you want more?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">With a Bushel and a Peck of Faithfulness,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="text">Stephanie </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
“Ora et Labora” – Latin “Pray and Work”</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Linking up with <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Cdiv%20align=%22center%22%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/category/grace-laced-mondays/%22%20title=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/uploads/2012/10/GL-Mondays.jpg%22%20alt=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%20style=%22border:none;%22%20/%3E%3C/a%3E%3C/div%3E" target="_blank">GraceLaced</a> today - what a great reminder to be content and humble, to see the fullness of God's grace in our everyday, ordinary lives - through Christ the ordinary is made extraordinary.</div>
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<![endif]-->Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-40741002916305538602013-05-29T19:36:00.001-07:002013-06-03T12:48:56.621-07:00Motherhood - Trial by Fire (or smoke detectors)Today was going to be an ordinary day - a good day - not too much on the agenda. No kids in school, kind of cloudy with a chance of rain. I woke up a bit early and had a nice coffee and read my Bible. Off to a good start. When kids decided to join me a little earlier than normal, I tried to be flexible and give them breakfast a little early. I set to work on making my husband's lunch (which he actually didn't need one today, oh well, subs for the freezer). I puttered a bit in the morning and the baby had an early nap. By the time I showered, baby was up and kids were just starting to watch TV (or a version there of; with no more cable, we have Netflix and YouTube, which were being finicky, so instead of allowing me time to nurse and get ready, I spent too much time fiddling with the TV). <br />
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No matter, got the kids ready and out the door by 10 for a leisurely drive to a nearby town to a quaint kid's clothing store that was having a sale. I was aware that I may not be able to do a focused shop with 4 kids in tow, but I was trying to keep expectations low. Upon arrival, they were given the run down of good behaviour and failure to comply would result in sitting in the car (small town, car parked right outside). I began shopping the sale rack outside as they raced up and down the side walk. Let them burn it off now, I thought, they'll have to be better inside. <br />
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Once inside I was pleased to find a play area in the back with some other kids already there. Again given warnings to play nice and stay calm, I went about the racks. Excited by some good finds and running in to some acquaintances (neat to see who comes out to the little European import store in the country), I was enjoying myself for a short time until I heard the call of the 2 1/2 year old - "Mommy, where are you?" This sort of thing continued as they all took turns leaving the play area and talking in too loud voices (the other kids in the store were certainly not doing that). The clerk gave them liquorice - excitement and thanks by all. <br />
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Soon a friend with kids my own kid's age came and racing around the store ensued. My 6 year old son had the hardest time behaving, but I could tell he was trying after I told him not to run. He still did, but I could see him hesitate a couple times (progress?) I got to that point of panicky, can't focus, kids are loosing it and I'm going to start impulse shopping, so I proceeded to check-out; it had been nearly an hour. <br />
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I had plans to visit the next door Dutch bakery to get lunch and maybe go to the fun park I saw driving in. But upon getting my bag, I had only the 2 youngest with me. I thought for sure they older 2 had made their way outside. I checked and didn't see them, only to return to the store and see them both, guilty as thieves, standing at the front with #2 crying and #1 trying to pull her away from something I firmly ordered them to get in the car (trying not to look like the freak-show that I felt I was about to have). Once in the car I gave them a chance to explain, it made no sense of course, but they had each hit each other. I was mortified and mad. I tried to keep it together and not yell (I've been trying this self-control thing for a few days and it is helping). I took away the privilege of the bakery and lunch and drove home; my son understanding his poor choice and consequence and feeling repentant (progress!) <br />
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Once at home, we had a picnic outside as the day had turned out to be much nicer than anticipated. The kids played for a while and then it was nap time for the youngest 2. #4 didn't settle right away (she had a short nap on the ride home). So I got #3 in bed with a bit of struggle as she has been chewing and ripping books apart in bed, I took them away, but much crying resulted. Again I tried to put baby down but she wouldn't settle. <br />
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I had focused my afternoon on getting a couple things done, which would afford me time to read the novel I am half way through. I pursued this goal, getting the roast in and putting the laundry in the dryer, so that I could sit for a while. After about 15 minutes of the roast being in at 550 degrees (the highest I've ever put the oven, but it was for a new recipe for <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/worlds-best-prime-rib-receipe" target="_blank">Prime Rib</a>), the smoke alarm went off. So crying baby had to be put down while I tried to fan it with a tea towel. When it kept happening; I was thankful that #3 didn't wake up; and found a step ladder to try to take out the battery. When I still couldn't reach, I racked my brain and finally took the baby change table out of the nursery, precariously stood on top of it and got the darn thing down. <br />
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Baby still crying, I rocked, I gave Advil (it must be teething), and I prayed. I prayed to God to care for my baby, to take away her pain and give her rest. And I didn't pray this so that she would nap and I could get my time; I prayed to give God all control and surrender all. It finally occurred to me to nurse her. She took to me readily, although a bit early, but still didn't want to nap after. So I put her on the couch beside me, content now, and started to write. I write to process, I write to remember, I write to learn that most days things don't go my way. Although I try to control things, trials and inconveniences happen and they serve to turn my focus and dependance back to God. <br />
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"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4<br />
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With a Bushel a a Peck of Rest,<br />
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Stephanie<br />
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P.S. The roast turned out great<br />
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P.P.S. My son continued to have a rough day, more hitting and rudeness to sisters. I am frustrated because I feel like I am going to loose him to Grade 1 next year and I will have less time to raise and instruct him. I suppose I should be glad for these days and the teachable moments; he is still mine to mould.<br />
<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-32628023133806547982013-05-26T20:30:00.003-07:002013-05-27T10:03:38.291-07:00It's Not About Me<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I think I finally get it. It's not about me! How humbling that is to say aloud. And yet so obvious. I'll also probably forget this simple truth, so that is why I am writing this; mostly to remind myself when I have a bit of a break through. I have been over-analyzing like crazy lately - What am I doing? How am I doing it? What should I be doing? How do other people do it? How should I make the most of my days? What is the best use of my time? My energy? My focus? And then it hit me. Everything that makes me anxious/stressed/angry/frustrated/spun out is when I get caught up in myself; my self-image, my self-achievement, my self-fulfillment. </div>
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My son taught me something so simple that he learned at school and it is sooo important (why I am so thankful for Christian schooling). JOY - Jesus, Others, Yourself. I've been placed HERE, in this time, in this role as a stay-at-home-mom, not to find fulfilment, comfort or sense of accomplishment; but purpose - YES! My purpose it to love and serve Jesus, Others and then...myself.</div>
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<u>Jesus</u></div>
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I am here to serve God in the most humble way - by raising my kids and taking care of my family. Anything that distracts from that is NOT NECESSARY. Distractions, extra to-do's and projects, high expectations and standards make me a CRAZY Mommy. I want to raise my kids to be calm, loving, compassionate, kind, patient, self-controlled - love Jesus - content, thankful. I can only teach them by showing them; by living it. I need to put my desires for accomplishment aside - lay down my life as it were - and be the person I want my kids to be; I can expect no more from them. </div>
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I find it very hard to prioritize with so many things demanding my time, many of which seem like good things to do. But it's when something that doesn't matter in the scheme of things makes me obsessive, I get impatient and angry. I hate that. I want to change, I truly do. I NEED God's grace - only by the Holy Spirit can I hope to do better. I need to stop trying to do it all, adding projects to the list and slow down. I have been saved by the work that Jesus did on the cross - I can not add to the work that has been finished. I can only live my life in service and gratitude to Him. </div>
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<u>Others</u></div>
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I think stay-at-home-mom's can easily fall into a trap of being narrowly focused. This isn't necessarily being selfish, because we are always giving of ourselves, but we don't always see the bigger picture and the outside world. We associate with our little people and others in the same stage of life. I want to be more aware of the needs of others and live to serve others - visiting friends; especially those struggling, visiting the elderly, give with what I've been blessed with. I will be blessed and provided with all I need and more if I let go of my worldly desires and seek first the Kingdom of God.</div>
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Others includes my family. My kids won't remember a clean or decorated house (although it does make life enjoyable). But they will remember the time I was present and active in their lives, making memories, seeing and responding to their needs, laughing and enjoying these crazy kids days. </div>
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<u>Yourself </u></div>
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Another thing I need to realize is that I've been given abilities and limitations. I am an achiever by nature (oldest child), but I have to accept that I can not do it all and I do not have the same gifts as others. This is humbling, because there are abilities that I really admire, but it would also just add to the list of distractions if I was to pursue something else. My body physically tells me when I've over done it - but I rarely listen. I need to start listening and put myself as a priority in that I care for my physical, mental and spiritual health so that I can continue to give of myself. </div>
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I don't know what the future holds, but I pray that I will serve God in this time by being obedient and faithful to my calling. This is not succumbing, it is so freeing!</div>
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I'll just share this song that speaks directly in to what I'm talking about...</div>
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Take my life, and let it be</div>
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Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;</div>
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Take my moments and my days,</div>
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Let them flow in ceaseless praise,</div>
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Let them flow in ceaseless praise.</div>
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Take my hands, and let them move</div>
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At the impulse of Thy love;</div>
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Take my feet and let them be</div>
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Swift and beautiful for Thee,</div>
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Swift and beautiful for Thee.</div>
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Take my voice, and let me sing</div>
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Always, only, for my King;</div>
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Take my lips, and let them be</div>
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Filled with messages from Thee,</div>
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Filled with messages from Thee.</div>
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Take my silver and my gold;</div>
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Not a mite would I withhold;</div>
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Take my intellect, and use</div>
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Every power as Thou shalt choose,</div>
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Every power as Thou shalt choose.</div>
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Take my will, and make it Thine;</div>
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It shall be no longer mine.</div>
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Take my heart; it is Thine own;</div>
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It shall be Thy royal throne,</div>
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It shall be Thy royal throne.</div>
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Take my love; my Lord, I pour</div>
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At Thy feet its treasure-store.</div>
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Take myself, and I will be</div>
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Ever, only, all for Thee,</div>
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Ever, only, all for Thee.<br />
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Joy,<br />
Stephanie<br />
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You must check out <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Cdiv%20align=%22center%22%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/category/grace-laced-mondays/%22%20title=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/uploads/2012/10/GL-Mondays.jpg%22%20alt=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%20style=%22border:none;%22%20/%3E%3C/a%3E%3C/div%3E" target="_blank">Grace Laced</a> - I was so excited to find this blog - she has a lot of applicable wisdom that speaks in to my life right now and was this inspiration for this post.</div>
Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-72837726280980338502013-05-16T13:52:00.000-07:002013-10-15T14:04:07.481-07:00Cakes!In the time I've had children I've taken up cake decorating, by virtue of my mother-in-law who did fun cakes (usually Wilton cake pans) for all her kid's birthdays and then sister-in-law's who kept the tradition going. My sister-in-law taught me how to make <a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/Rolled-Marshmallow-Fondant" target="_blank">marshmallow fondant</a> and helped me with some of these (check out her blog at <a href="http://www.blessedlifeatopacakestand.com/">Blessed Life A Top A Cake Stand</a> and her cake creations under <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Blessed-Life-A-Top-a-Cake-Stand/131571810262728?sk=photos_albums" target="_blank">Kathryn's Cakes</a>). Some were totally on my own! I love coming up with the idea and I sort-of like the challenge. I do not like staying up till midnight the day before the party trying to finish it (and I loath the mess it makes). But the reaction of my kids is worth it. I have been inspired by cakes I've found on the Internet, so I thought I would pass along some inspiration.<br />
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I should also note that I have started making my cakes smaller (as I was throwing a lot out after a kid's party), and we use store bought fondant now (from Bulk Barn), what a time/energy saver with consistent results!<br />
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So in order of creation here they are...<br />
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Gavin's First Birthday - Giraffe - using doweling and Rice Krispies<br />
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My Aunt's Wedding Cake - my Mom (also made some cakes in her time) did the piping with Royal icing<br />
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Gavin's Second Birthday - Thomas the Train - using a Wilton Train Cake Pan<br />
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Amia's First Birthday - Pretty Girl - Using sugar cookies around the border and scrap-booking flowers on wire coils for a pop</div>
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My Friend's Wedding Cake - Again, my Mom did the piping - Real flowers and ribbon (who says everything has to be edible, it looks nice!)</div>
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Gavin's Third Birthday - Bob and Larry from Veggie Tales - used half a Wilton ball pan and a loaf pan on top of a slab cake covered with <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/318727/swiss-meringue-buttercream-for-cupcakes" target="_blank">Swiss Meringue Butter-cream</a> </div>
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My Mom and Dad's 50th Birthday Cake - on a Ski Hill</div>
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Amia's Second Birthday - Strawberry Shortcake</div>
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Gavin's Fourth Birthday - One Spider Man with fondant for family and one with butter-cream stars for friends</div>
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Amia's Third Birthday - Princess castle - Towers made out of Rice Krispies with ice-cream cones on top</div>
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Cate's First Birthday - Curious George for my little monkey</div>
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Gavin's Fifth Birthday - Super Mario Cake and Cake Pops - my first attempt at table-scaping and the theme parties are getting more elaborate</div>
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Amia's Fourth Birthday - Barbie - using a Wilton Doll Pan - more fun with Table-scaping (thank-you Pinterest)</div>
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Cate's Second Birthday - Elmo - Wilton Cake Pan</div>
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Gavin's Sixth Birthday - Kung Fu Panda - was going to try to keep it simple but he starting requesting things like the Chinese flag and the Great Wall and here is what we got </div>
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Amia's Fifth Birthday - Candy Land - using - you guessed it - a whole lot of candy<br />
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I also made a rainbow cake for family and I was so excited about this one so here are the steps...</div>
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First I made the cake batter and coloured it in 6 different colours. I started with red and poured it in the middle and then poured in each subsequent colour in the middle, slowly to give the colours time to spread to the outer edge. The effect was great, but if I did it again I would make more red because it got lost by the end. </div>
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I then cut the cakes in half and stacked them using <a href="http://www.blessedlifeatopacakestand.com/2013/04/cake-decorating-rosettes.html" target="_blank">butter cream </a>to look like a rainbow</div>
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then I decorated using stars on top and this fun <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4_mNcsN5o8" target="_blank">ruffle </a>effect on the edges</div>
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It tasted so good too as it was my first time using my sister-in-law's White Almond Cake recipe. If she ever posts it to her blog I will link it.</div>
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Ella's First Birthday Cake - 3 - 6" layers covered in butter cream with an ombre effect and cute little fondant elephant. I love this technique with the ruffles, it is easy (once I was shown how to do it properly). </div>
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Cate's Third Birthday - Under the Sea/Mermaid Party - 6 inch cake with butter cream and fondant Mermaid tail</div>
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This was such a fun party - I plan to blog more about the details soon<br />
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A final note on cake making - it is a big undertaking! I like to do it when not distracted by kids or kids getting hands in it - but then like I said, I'm up till midnight. I love the finished effect (sometimes it's not as good as I want but I try to remember that it's still special). In the future I hope to find a way to avoid doing a friend's party cake, a family party cake and preschool cake pops in a three day time frame (talk about a birthday taking over my life!) But the precedent has been set so I'll do it for the younger kids too. This is something special I choose to do for my kids as a memory/ to make their day special. But I get that it's not for everyone and not necessary to be a good mom. If you are up for a challenge though - have fun, and don't worry if it's not perfect (icing covers a multitude of crumbly cake sins ;o) On that note, do not use a cake box as the recipe is written on the box - find a recipe online that adapts a cake box (necessary for a moist cake) but makes it denser so that it holds up to your cutting, stacking and icing. </div>
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Sweetness,</div>
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Stephanie</div>
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Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-24268588404322620242013-04-27T06:49:00.000-07:002013-09-04T18:59:18.775-07:00Spring Wreath How-ToA few weeks ago I picked one of my <a href="http://boutiqueginabeana.blogspot.ca/2011/03/birthday-gift.html" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> craft ideas and pulled it off. It had been teasing us with spring and I was getting spring fever, so I decided to go to Michaels and get stuff to MAKE it feel like spring. I fashioned this wreath and loved it. <br />
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A couple weeks later, the supplies to make it were on sale, super cheap - more than 50% off! I thought, I want to make more, maybe I could sell them. So I put up an ad on a Facebook Swap and Buy and got 6 orders! Boy did that affirm me. But then I was panicked - what if I get too many orders and can't get the supplies for as cheap as I did? So after some unnecessary anxiety, I decided that I won't launch a business (hey isn't every stay-at-home-mom trying to make a buck from home?) But rather I would write a tutorial about the process so that others may enjoy the beauty. It truly is simple and I figured it out by looking at a picture, but there are a few details that would benefit being explained so you don't have to guess like I did.<br />
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First you go to Michaels and buy the following:<br />
A Grapevine Wreath - 18 inches - retails $4.99<br />
A can of Design Master Spray Paint (turquoise is what I used) - retails $12.99 - Krylon is cheaper and fine but more oily and doesn't coat as nicely<br />
Flowers of your choice - 2-3 bunches - retails around $3-12<br />
3 Gerber daisies - patterned ones retail for $2.99 each<br />
Ribbon - retails $4.89 for a 7 yard roll<br />
Card-stock - I had at home<br />
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Other tools:<br />
Modge Podge<br />
Hot Glue Gun<br />
Hole Punch<br />
Wire cutters<br />
Needle nose pliers<br />
Scissors<br />
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Of course all these things go on sale and can be purchased with coupons - so I encourage you to maximize the coupons and sales and make it for much cheaper.<br />
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Pick a nice day and spray the wreath outside. I start with one coat, leave it 15 minutes and spray the other side. Leave it another 15 minutes or so and spray the front side again. I try not to let any brown show and it may need a third coat, but I just do one coat on the back.<br />
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Meanwhile you can work on your tags. You can, for ease, print off a design and put it on card-stock, but I like the layered effect. <br />
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I print of my initial on card-stock using Georgia font in size 200. I set the font settings to Bold, with a grey outline and no fill.<br />
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I carefully cut it out and use an exacto knife if there is an inner circle. <br />
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I make 2 circles out of card stock using an item from around the house to get the shape. I also use a heavier cardboard to make a backing so it doesn't curl. then I Modge Podge everything together and let dry. <br />
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I use a hold punch to make a bunch of dots and glue them around the perimeter of the first circle. This seems finicky but I love the effect. After it is dry I put another layer of Modge Podge on top to seal it and give it a nice gloss.<br />
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When the wreath is dry (I like to leave it outside for a day if possible so it doesn't stink like spray paint.) <br />
Get your flowers ready and plug in a hot glue gun. Also get out the needle nose pliers and wire cutters.<br />
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I push all the foliage back from the flower stems and snip off the individual flowers leaving a few inches of stem to work with. I put them through the wreath and then use the needle nose pliers to twist and work the stems into the wreath to secure them. Some flowers may come off the stem in which case they can be hot glued on.<br />
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I add the larger gerber daisy accents last and pop them right off the stem. I use a large dollop of hot glue and hold them in place.<br />
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Finally I cut about 4 feet of ribbon to ty around the top. I tie a double bow and snip the ends into a V. I punch a hole in the initial tag and tie the ribbon (about 2 feet) through the top ribbon and tie with a single bow. <br />
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Here are a few of the more unique designs that I've made. It was fun to have people make requests and get to be a little creative with designing. The possibilities are endless. There maybe be fall wreaths in the future.</div>
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Crafting Fun,<br />
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Stephanie<br />
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Another shout out to Gail for the original inspiration - <a href="http://boutiqueginabeana.blogspot.ca/2011/03/birthday-gift.html" target="_blank">http://boutiqueginabeana.blogspot.ca/2011/03/birthday-gift.html</a><br />
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Check out my sister-in-law's blog about our crafting time - The Yellow wreath with "F" is hers<br />
<a href="http://www.blessedlifeatopacakestand.com/2013/04/sunny-spring-wreath.html" target="_blank">http://www.blessedlifeatopacakestand.com/2013/04/sunny-spring-wreath.html</a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-48512176476888656112013-04-02T21:05:00.003-07:002013-04-02T21:27:10.172-07:00If something works - use it!I am needing to retract a statement from my post yesterday about not cleaning with chemicals. I was doing spring cleaning at my church today and was given the most fabulous tip. And if something works, I am going to use it!<br />
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To cut grease, specifically on a kitchen range hood, use an ammonia based glass cleaner. It doesn't have to be brand specific, but the stuff I used was blue and it had ammonia. It cut through the grease like nothing. I had cleaned this same hood last year and scrubbed and scrubbed with everything I could think of, even SOS pads. I was so excited about this discovery that I said, it has to be on Pinterest. So here it is.<br />
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I am going to have to go and buy me some of this now.<br />
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I also thought it ironic that I was just stating that I don't "spring clean" my house but I do at church. Well, if there is a need, I will usually step up. It does make me want to dig a little deeper this week to get some of my hidden stuff clean, but I think for my sanity and physical well being, I will stick to the clean as the need arises technique. <br />
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It did come up in conversation as a bunch of us women were scrubbing away, that back in the day, moms might have had clean houses, but these women don't remember their moms reading them a book or helping their moms bake. So again, it's all about balance.<br />
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With a Barrel and a Heap of cleanliness,<br />
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StephanieStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-88442808942431465182013-04-01T21:22:00.000-07:002013-09-26T19:38:42.488-07:00A Discourse on Cleaning, Organizing and Decorating<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I am in the "mother of young children" stage of life. What does that have to do with cleaning, organizing and decorating? Well, everything in fact. I have found after being a mom for 6 years that in order to keep one's sanity, there must be compromise on one's previous standards and expectations. When I had new babies, I would sit in my chair in the living room and look across our open concept home and see nothing but dusty and streaky floors. I would then obsess about it the whole time I was nursing and then anxiously try to work it in to my day to clean said floors. I think on average I would clean my floor every other day when I had 1 or 2 kids. I now clean my floors once a week (on a good week). This may sound like an excuse, or a cop out, but in my reality it has been a blessing. I see it as a blessing that I clean less because it also means that I interact with my kids more and we "live" in our house, rather than have it as a show home. </div>
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However, I do enjoy a clean, organized and decorated house. So how do I find balance? Well, I think it starts with having a clean house. What's the point of having a nicely decorated home if you can't keep it clean? Here are a few of my tried and tested cleaning tips. I don't use chemicals. I like to use things that are safe for my kids to be in the same room as me while I'm cleaning without risk of poisoning them or them choking on fumes. I only clean with vinegar and water or a store bought green cleaner and have never had terribly sick kids. I clean my toilets with a big splash of vinegar and a big shake of baking soda - let it foam and then clean with a brush. I have also (FINALLY) found the best floor cleaner for my laminate is a combination of 1/4 vinegar, water and a couple TBSP of rubbing alcohol. The rubbing alcohol makes the floors dry really fast and they are not streaky. </div>
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After you have a cleaned, if you a still have time, and acknowledged that it won't get done all in one day, it is important to organize. I believe that everything should have a home and if it doesn't, find one, or get rid of it. This becomes increasingly hard as you have more kids and they start bringing papers and art work home from school. This has caused me great anxiety in the past. However, now with one in Kindergarten and one in Preschool, I feel like I have a pretty good system for organizing, which gets it off my kitchen table. We bought this Expedit unit at Ikea and put it in the corner of our dining room which is my "Grand Central Station" for running my home. </div>
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I keep things like lunch kits and camera bags behind the closed doors, our Bible and kid's Bibles are on the top for handy access for after meal readings. Notice one binder labelled Family Organization Binder? That might be a future post, but basically it has important information about our family, emergency info, babysitter instructions, school schedules, meal ideas and take-out menus, sick kids guide, cleaning tips and other miscellaneous papers that have a home in one convenient place. There is also a purple binder there which is for the baby. I have one small binder for each kid that has their first year calendar, a pocket page for important documents such as birth certificates and swimming lesson report cards, and a pad of paper to jot down what they've been doing as they grow. I also bought this cube organizer at Staples that helps to divide my papers from the kid's papers and has drawers for pencils and such. This whole unit was a bit of investment but has been a huge relief for me in the organization department. I realized that I have about 5 different places in my house where I keep arts and crafts supplies and that this should be consolidated somehow, but that will be a future project. </div>
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On the side I have my super Mom's planning calendar and a white board for remembering prayer requests and kid's memory verses.</div>
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As another way to control kid's papers, we put up a cork board on a blank wall in our dinning room, so the kids art can be displayed without taping in all over the house. I usually take pictures of their art and then "recycle" it and put up the new stuff so I don't keep too much.</div>
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I have also found that rather than "spring-cleaning", I clean as the need arrises and starts to bug me, or I make a list of things to clean/organize and then allow myself to do one a day so that I don't get obsessive and ignore my kids for a whole day while taking on too much. This being said, I still sometimes see all the needs at once and try to tackle too much; you know how one thing leads to the next; but I'm trying. I read once that cleaning with young kids is like shoveling snow while it's still snowing - so true!</div>
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And finally, on decorating. I wouldn't say I have a specific "style" so to speak, however I generally decorate with things that I like and make me happy, with input from my husband who happens to have a great eye and is kinda crafty too. I think when it comes to decorating for a home with young kids that it's important to be practical in your approach. Find a balance between form and function. This doesn't mean that you can't have nice things, but I wouldn't put a lot of breakable stuff at a crawling babies level. Of course, that's obvious. But having a soft ottoman instead of a coffee table, or dinning room chairs with slipcovers that can be washed (regularly). When purchasing furniture we went with stuff we liked, but that isn't so expensive that it can't be <strike>jumped on</strike> used (come on, we know it happens). </div>
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I like to be able to change up my decor a bit according to the seasons. Something simple like a wreath can really brighten things up. </div>
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However, I don't like to store a whole bunch of seasonal decor so I try not to go over board. It helps to go to a place like a garden center after Christmas when everything is 50% off or Michaels when they have eveything 15% off including sale items. We've done well for art and such at Winners too.</div>
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Family pictures have always been important to me, so we make a presence for them in our home.</div>
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This arrangement was so easy with a template from Michaels. I am not one to be afraid to make a hole in the wall. If it's not level, I try again; holes can be patched.<br />
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We had to rearrange our living room (even buying new couches) to work with a second hand piano. No one in the house plays (yet) but we look forward to our kids taking lessons. For now it is a place to display (and collect dust).<br />
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I have also tried to decorate my kids rooms in ways that are special and functional. </div>
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I know that this is not necessary, but I like to do it and they love their rooms. However, we have not yet decorated our room, which is supposed to be a sanctuary right? Well, that's on the to do list.</div>
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One more thing that I want to share before this gets too long. Our electrical panel is in our daughter's bedroom and we wanted to cover it in a functional, accessible and attractive way. We bought a mirror that was the right size and my husband put hinges on it. </div>
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So there is no unsightly electrical panel, yet it is easily accessible. Great idea right?!</div>
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We don't have a large home, and we have to build a garage so we can stop using our relative's garage to store our stuff. But I think we have made the most of the space and we will be able to live here in comfort for a few more years to come. It's amazing that when we moved in to our house 6 years ago that we said it would be our 5 year home and now we have no plans to move. </div>
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With a Bushel and a Peck of Hominess,<br />
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Stephanie</div>
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Credit for the wreath idea at <a href="http://boutiqueginabeana.blogspot.ca/2011/03/birthday-gift.html">http://boutiqueginabeana.blogspot.ca/2011/03/birthday-gift.html</a><br />
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Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-50915515486086125362013-03-20T14:19:00.000-07:002013-03-20T14:19:04.957-07:00Easter Countdown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Apparently in our house we really like to count down to big events and holidays. My oldest son now has a calendar in his room and knows what month it is and what we are doing on any given day. It just occurred to me this afternoon that not only is it the first day of spring but it is 12 days until Easter Sunday. I was digging through the Easter supplies and came across an egg carton with plastic refillable eggs that my son had made in Story hour at church last year. I thought, "Am I too late?" But if you include today and Easter Sunday it is 12 days. So I found a couple more egg cartons and filled them with numbered eggs and we'll begin today to countdown. (I only had enough small candy to put in the first one so I'll go to the store tomorrow to get some Easter specific candy and fill up the rest.) It is pretty simple but fun for the kids.<br />
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With a Bushel and a Peck of Spring Fun,<br />
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StephStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-87417227813105343642013-03-15T22:04:00.000-07:002013-09-04T19:11:12.443-07:00Confessions of a Basketball Widow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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I don't really get it - the sport of basketball that is. I didn't play it in school (except for one awkward season in Gr. 8). I might have been more athletic had I been encouraged, but I lacked the confidence and coordination. However, I ended up marrying a true, through and through Jock. I love his passion for sports, but I don't like watching it on TV. I love that he has an amazing memory for sports trivia, but I don't like that he doesn't come to bed cause he's checking on stats. He played at the University level and I would watch the games but usually chatted with his mom most of the time and didn't really follow the game. Now he is a coach for a senior high boys team and it is pretty time consuming. </div>
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And that is how I see it, as time consuming. I don't see it as a passion he has for the sport, to work with kids, to instill positive qualities in the youth, to be a role model, to use his gifts and abilities to God's glory. I don't see that he's under constant scrutiny from parents, fans and the public. I don't see that he works a full day as an elementary school teacher, on his feet, talking and imparting knowledge and then has to run a 2 hour practice or coach a game in the evening. And I really don't get what he actually does as a coach during a game to play the right players and run the right plays. But I do know that he is the one that gets called when they loose a big game and a kid is bummed that he didn't get to play, or that he has to talk about the details to every concerned and semi-knowledgeable fan that watched. I am tired after a long season of putting the kids to bed by myself or going to bed by myself (it's not all bad, but some weeks are busier than others). But I am not on show. I am not being scrutinized, criticized and "on" all the time. I don't even know what goes on in the brain of the man I am married to, but as I watch him coach (which unfortunately with kid's bed schedules or kids tearing around the gym, I don't actually "watch" that much basketball) I feel like I want to be right beside him, holding his hand. Tomorrow when he's tired on a Saturday and not eager to complete my honey do list, maybe I'll have a little compassion, a little empathy and give the guy a break. There are days that I want to throw in the towel and have a fit cause I had a hard day with the kids and he wasn't here - but he is doing something for a greater purpose than himself and I love him for it. I hope they win tonight (they're playing in the semi-finals of Provincials as I write). But if they don't I will love him and not hold it against him - maybe there's something to be said for being clueless about sports.</div>
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With a barrel and a heap of love,</div>
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Steph</div>
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Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-19553354457677626952013-02-13T19:17:00.002-08:002013-06-03T09:59:33.873-07:00The Heart of the Matter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Once again, I find myself in a quandary. Is what I am about to write about a contradiction? I feel this subject on my heart but I am going to go on to talk about how unreliable the heart is. Well, let's just see where this goes. </div>
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The heart is well known to be fickle, wicked, deceitful, easily lead to folly and not a good way to base our life's decisions. However, so many things are based on how we feel at the time. Many good decisions have been made by following the heart; also many bad ones. How then can we know if it is the right course of action to take? </div>
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My father-in-law said something once that I have never forgotten, regarding the decision to either buy a pet or have a baby, that it is an emotional decision. This I have come to see in my own life as very true. Before we had kids, I decided I wanted a puppy to cuddle and nurture and look cute. Did I put a lot of thought and research in to this decision? No. We have spent the last 7 1/2 years as parents to Lola, and have often wondered if we knew what we were getting in to. </div>
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Also with children. We knew we wanted children, but not having a lot of experience with kids myself and no training program for want-to-be parents, I really didn't know what I was in for. Does this mean that because my heart told me I wanted a baby that it was a rash decision. In this case no (maybe so in the puppy case). Children are a gift from the Lord, we are blessed by what we have been entrusted with. </div>
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You don't become a parent because you have passed a course and know everything there is to know and are ready to take on this task with all the tools of the trade. You become parents, most likely, with a lot of hope and desire, but no real clue. You are then put through the ringer, and if you're like me, you have been challenged in ways you never dreamed of. </div>
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This goes beyond the sleepless nights to the real spiritual heart of the matter. We have been parents for 6 years now and I have been stretched, tested,
grown and refined in ways that go beyond my control and planning. Of
course I didn't think parenting would be easy, but I didn't realize how
much of myself would have to change in the process. I am slowly
learning to be less selfish about my sleep. I am trying to set aside my
agenda and expectations, to be open to God's leading. I am working at
putting my family's needs first, even if I feel unproductive. I have
been convicted by my sin and my daily need for forgiveness and
do-overs. </div>
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When you realize that you have little mirrors walking around your house showing you your sin every day, you can choose to ignore or justify it, or come to the Throne of God in repentance and humility. I have been humbled as a parent. I have seen my shortcomings ten fold. I have tried to justify them by being tired or overwhelmed. But really, sin is without excuse. I am always telling my kids to have patience and self control, it is no shear coincidence that those are the areas I struggle most with. It is up to me to control my heart, to choose to be cheerful in the morning, to take on the day with a good attitude and as I tell my kids, have a happy heart when things don't go my way. </div>
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I am a work in progress. I am a parent in training. I am a saint being sanctified. When I am having a hard time I know I have to turn to God for strength and grace. But it is when things are going relatively smoothly that I need to give full credit to the God that has seen fit to use me for His service. In this life, there are hills and valleys, but God is faithful and will see us through the journey when our hearts and minds are in tune with Him. </div>
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Just to throw in some scripture here, Psalm 37 is an amazing meditation and has so many golden nuggets of truth to gleam from. I find reading this so encouraging and a good foundation.</div>
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With a Barrel and a Heap of Love,</div>
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Stephanie</div>
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Linking up with <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Cdiv%20align=%22center%22%3E%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/category/grace-laced-mondays/%22%20title=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.gracelaced.com/uploads/2012/10/GL-Mondays.jpg%22%20alt=%22GraceLaced%20Mondays%22%20style=%22border:none;%22%20/%3E%3C/a%3E%3C/div%3E" target="_blank">Grace Laced</a></div>
Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620467141832961314.post-44325922377507746092013-02-06T19:18:00.004-08:002013-09-04T19:14:53.615-07:00Vain Labour<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am taking a step out in faith here. I hope that what I am about to do it not in contradiction to what I am about to write about and that is the concept of labouring in vain. It is quiet in my house right now (2 youngest napping, 2 oldest watching a movie). But it won't be for long, so I hope and pray that I am using my time wisely. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have always wanted to write. I have this desire, that I am more sure that God has placed there, but I don't have the confidence to think I have anything of consequence to say. I keep thinking that someday, when there is time, when there is years of wisdom behind me, then I'll sit down and write. But I think that I have this subject placed on my heart for a reason and, </span>therefore,<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I'm going to just put it out there. This is for my benefit. Something that I have been contemplating and working through and to put it down in </span>writing<span style="font-family: inherit;"> is a way to process. I don't expect this to </span>become<span style="font-family: inherit;"> a regular entry or a devotional or for anyone other than myself to benefit from it but here it goes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"<span class="chapter-3" style="background-color: white;"><span class="text Ps-127-1" style="position: relative;">Unless the <span class="small-caps" style="font-size: 16px; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> builds the house,<span style="font-size: 7px; line-height: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Ps-127-1" style="position: relative;">those who build it labor in vain.</span></span>" Psalm 127 1a</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I recently partook of a Bible study by Beth Moore (Stepping Up) and some of what I will write here has been gleamed from that study. I have also been reading a lot of blogs and books by Rachel Jankovic and I am processing what I have learned from her, through the Spirit of God. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now that credit has been given, I will write freely.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have a tendency to get caught up in my own projects and "to-do" lists. I have a desire to have a sense of purpose and accomplishment and being a stay-at-home mom doesn't really come with a job description or a performance review. Thus I seek fulfillment in making lists and checking them off. I have learned over the years to make my list more tangible and realistic, so that I maintain reasonable levels of balance and priority. However, even though my cleanliness standards have lessened, my desire to be "finished" something has not changed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Kids are never finished. Kids are always needing, doing, going, wanting, asking, taking. It can be draining. The more you're willing to give, the more they take; if you give them and inch, they take a mile. But in the end (figuratively the end is being done raising kids I suppose) do I want completed photo albums or successful human beings? A decorated house or children who love the Lord.? Do I want to be a mom who appears to have it all together to the onlooker, or a mom who takes the time to listen to her children, work with them through their sin and teach them the Love of God through my life's example?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I think the answer is pretty clear, but how to get there when I so easily get caught up in my own selfish ambition? Of course it doesn't seem selfish at the time, I'm building memories for my kids, trying to maintain a reasonable level of cleanliness or keep on top of things so that I don't loose my mind trying to play catch up if I loose a day or 2. I think the key here is where is my line of sight. Am I trying to do things to fill my day and ignore the kids so that I feel in control, when really I should be looking to God, every moment, every step of the way, for guidance, direction and insight. If I am so busy doing my own thing, wthout consulting God or relying on his grace to get me through, how can I expect the results I desire. I cause myself more anxiety and stress doing things that ultimately don't matter. Here's one from Beth's study that has to be shared; "A Latin motto says, 'Nisi Dominus Frusta', which means 'Without the Lord, Frustration'." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Psalm 127 goes on in chapter 2 to say, "<span style="background-color: white;">It is in vain that you rise up early</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 0px;"> </span><span class="text Ps-127-2" style="position: relative;">and go late to rest, </span><span style="background-color: white;">eating the bread of anxious</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-16124C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup><span style="background-color: white;">toil;</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 0px;"> </span><span class="text Ps-127-2" style="position: relative;">for he gives to his <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-16124D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup>beloved <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-16124E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup>sleep."</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sleep is a precious commodity for a mother with young children, I know I am going to be up in the night nursing and up early for breakfast and getting ready for the day, yet I find myself staying up late to finish that digital scrapbooking project or scrolling through Pinterest. I am irritable the next day and unable to deal with the daily load with a calm spirit. This is how Beth puts it...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Godless labor + little sleep = a futile expenditure of energy"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">That's not to say that I can't have time to myself or find enjoyment in a hobby, but there needs to be balance and limits on time spent in these </span>pursuits<span style="font-family: inherit;"> (I have for example, given the kids 1 hour to watch a movie and thus, the same time to work on this). I would normally make getting a certain something done my priority and tend to leave the TV on all afternoon and feel guilty in the end but "at least it's off my to do list." I typically wake up in the morning thinking what am I going to accomplish today, but I am realizing that I should, </span>rather,<span style="font-family: inherit;"> make my morning prayer "Lord, make me your humble servant, use me how you see fit for your glory, give me an attitude of giving, equip me for the task and make my priorities in line with your will."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is not my job to entertain or appease my kids, but it is my job to meet </span>their<span style="font-family: inherit;"> needs, nurture and love them, and give them a full life. I read in "Thriving Family" magazine, our goal is to make them successful, satisfied and spiritually mature adults. These days with 4 kids at home may seem long, but they will not last long and I should use the time I have to work with them, to put their needs first. I may not see the immediate gratification I would from a clean floor (but we all know that is a fleeting result anyway). However, I am realizing more that God wants me to build my house according to His blue print - which, with more prayer and scripture reading, will </span>become<span style="font-family: inherit;"> my desire as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">With a Bushel and a Peck of Faith,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Stephanie</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is a great blog by <a href="http://www.feminagirls.com/2013/01/31/january-31-proverbs-813/" target="_blank">Rachel Jankovic</a> - many more in the archives under lizziejank</span>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04051798580428027546noreply@blogger.com1