tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83282862733092195972024-02-20T10:48:27.890-07:00A Girl Named MichaelThe strange thoughts and adventures of a loud mouth small town girl full of contradictions.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.comBlogger491125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-68145575964573309312014-11-18T10:51:00.000-07:002014-11-18T11:17:26.249-07:0011 Tips to Save on Holiday Dinner<div class="MsoNormal">
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<ol><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzC2MV1uc8TFJLa42EK_CGl761F1WfwsDtP2FtOy69AfdWHyRciGvkayhpHeZEEFJH22Kf4ef4TpdrJNZEcWjL7y5xWXJv91GTpmmqu-r3qhqscYnzVZnlQx0V30HTNifZMJaAJ2rnWH8/s1600/turkey+dinner.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzC2MV1uc8TFJLa42EK_CGl761F1WfwsDtP2FtOy69AfdWHyRciGvkayhpHeZEEFJH22Kf4ef4TpdrJNZEcWjL7y5xWXJv91GTpmmqu-r3qhqscYnzVZnlQx0V30HTNifZMJaAJ2rnWH8/s1600/turkey+dinner.png" height="320" width="289" /></a></ol>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1d1d1d;">Every year I try and find strategies for preparing a holiday dinner without blowing my entire grocery budget on one meal. then I remember that I always end up at someone else's house for the holidays and I really don't need to worry about the cost of a bigger dinner....but since I want to all the work of finding some great tips thisd year. I thought I would share them.</span><span lang="EN" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"></span></span><br />
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<li style="color: #1d1d1d; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Cut the meat</b>.</span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 16.3636360168457px;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;">The most expensive item on the menu usually is the meat. You don't need a turkey and ham and a meat platter. Pick one, turkey is usually the cheapest. Frozen turkeys are cheaper than fresh turkeys. Another option is to choose a bone-in turkey breast instead of a whole bird. <span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;">Cooking just the turkey breast will cut down on cooking time and your energy bill (think of all the free time to sleep in or do your nails)</span>. Whole turkeys may be the tradition, but did you know that after discarding bone and fatty parts, only about 40 percent is edible? Seriously 40%. 40%!!!!!</span></span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><b style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16.3636360168457px;">Whats in your Kitchen?</b><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> Odds are good you have some </span><span style="color: #1d1d1d;">ingredients</span><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> you need already in your pantry. Take stock of your supplies and plan your dishes based on what you already have on hand.</span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><b>I have a Coupon.</b> Check mailers and online for coupons that will save money on things you need...no need to buy that brand name brownie mix if that isn't on the menu</span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;">.<span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>In addition most grocery stores lower their prices about two weeks prior to a holiday. </span></span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Keep the menu short</b>.</span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;">Holidays are a time when we tend to go over bored, gifts, activities and especially on food. Check out what you are planning and then cut out at least three dishes. Do you have that one dish last year that hardly anyone ate? Say good-bye to it. Focus on the family favorites. No one needs three desserts...whats your favorite one? Cook that one, who wants to waste time and energy on desserts you don't like to eat?</span></span></span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pick in season produce.</b></span></span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> There is a reason squash, sweet potatoes, spinach, pears, cranberries, oranges, cauliflower and broccoli are often part of traditional holiday dinners. They are in season, our ancestors knew it and that is why they prepared them. If you are sick of eating them try a new way of preaparing the item...and remember, frozen vegetables are just as flavorful and nutritious.<span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Potluck anyone</b>.</span></span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> You cook the bird and have guests bring their favorite holiday side dish. This DRAMATICALLY cuts your shopping bill plus you know every guest will have one side dish they will love.<span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Do you really want to eat with them?</b></span></span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> Instead of feeding everyone you have ever meet, keep it to immediate family and close friends. Instead consider inviting more people over for cocktails/coffee and dessert later in the evening.</span></span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Decorating 101 on the cheap</b>. People are coming to see you not to see if you have the appropriate amount of tinsel on the tree. Keep it warm and simple. Yummy food is what is important in this situation.</span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>If you must decorate. </b>If you are like me and want to set a nice table skip the fancy center piece and pricey floral arrangements. Scatter a few tea candles or Holiday décor you already own around the room and on the table. (That cute nutcracker you impulsively bought that sits in the corner will look cute on your table). Put some colorful tree ornaments you are not using in a vase, or lay them down the center of the table. Even better have everyone bring a favorite Holiday picture to place around the table and room, they are a great way to relive memories and start conversations.</span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>After holiday celebrations</b>. Everyone is very busy in the weeks leading up to holidays. Consider skipping the big holiday dinner and celebrate after the fact. You will save big on after holiday sales. </span></span></span></li>
<li style="color: #1d1d1d; font-size: 16.3636360168457px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Be a guest.</b></span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> This one is my favorite, i</span><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;">f anyone invites your family to their home for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, do say YES. Think of the lack of stress and extra time you will have that day.<span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>A handmade card or offer to bring a simple side dish is a great way to say thank you and keep you from feeling like a freeloader. </span></span></li>
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<span lang="EN" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="color: #444444;">What are some of your favorite tips to save on holiday meals?</span></span></div>
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</span>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-83962223429359525392014-07-11T13:44:00.000-06:002014-07-11T13:44:51.871-06:00365 days Until Wedded BlissIn one year I will be getting married.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLP9g_Ly65-MgFZlm2CmI_fpJcGoNbFY_MYND-gF_STs9jyZMKUHZaUK-p95sL985Sfo-79_sRJY7_bPRrYfEXk_TRUK1y5vbY_Pxzf6kDGYb2_GT9aLWgFpiWgKKJo39knqhp82nEJKE/s1600/wedded+bliss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLP9g_Ly65-MgFZlm2CmI_fpJcGoNbFY_MYND-gF_STs9jyZMKUHZaUK-p95sL985Sfo-79_sRJY7_bPRrYfEXk_TRUK1y5vbY_Pxzf6kDGYb2_GT9aLWgFpiWgKKJo39knqhp82nEJKE/s1600/wedded+bliss.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
That seems like it is forever away and not enough time to plan all at once. To say I am nervous and excited at the same time is an understatement.<br />
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Is it strange to be having all these feelings about something so far in the future? Just yesterday I was fine, I have planned a fun little date for The Fiance and myself but was feeling fairly low key about everything. Then this morning I woke up with a feeling of doom and anticipation.<br />
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Its not about planning the event...this is not the first wedding I have planned. Just early this year I planned The Ex-Wife/Friends wedding (I should write about that...talk about a good story) It is different planning your own wedding but I have all the details planned out so for the moment I am very relaxed about it.<br />
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I get all excited about taking that next step with The Fiance and planning our future together. I imagine the ups the downs and I can't wait.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGazUDjLpx15H_E-mBIkabFfiCBIKNXK_fXB6vBPzskyz_GKQ8mGi69oyXiRXV6MBwJi0icFIc6yHpHmCnn-2GAl012APu9SgR6VP-0SFsK0XD1vbsQiQz2R5GXJWq2aNc5a_CrQ_gcQ/s1600/family+pictures+087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGazUDjLpx15H_E-mBIkabFfiCBIKNXK_fXB6vBPzskyz_GKQ8mGi69oyXiRXV6MBwJi0icFIc6yHpHmCnn-2GAl012APu9SgR6VP-0SFsK0XD1vbsQiQz2R5GXJWq2aNc5a_CrQ_gcQ/s1600/family+pictures+087.JPG" height="200" width="133" /></a>Then I have that moment of panic. After all I will be 39 when I get married....<b>39!</b> In my 20s I never imagined I would be getting married at 39. I figured I would be married for 6 or 7 years with a few kids by the time 39 rolled around. And in my early 30s I thought settling down in my 40s seemed like a grand idea, anything before 40 seemed to young. there was just so much to do before I got married.<br />
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And here I am planning a big fat<strike> Greek</strike> <strike>Welsh</strike> <strike>Scottish</strike> Rock n Roll wedding at 39. Isn't life weird that way? Neither plan worked out exactly like I planned. Although I do have 2 "soon to be" bonus kids and I will just be shy of my 40th birthday. So maybe both my "life plans" worked out just right.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-88132431980148074212014-05-22T12:13:00.000-06:002014-05-22T12:13:00.190-06:00What Happened to A Girl Named Michael?Where has the time gone?<br />
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I knew it had been awhile.<br />
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I just did not realize how long it had been since I have written anything.<br />
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That might explain that weird frantic unsatisfied feeling I have had recently. I have been unsettled and frustrated with the world....which are normal feelings for me but have been strangely strong lately.<br />
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Today I thought I would share something and discovered I have not written anything since JANUARY!!!<br />
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I was a little shocked. <br />
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I know how it started I got sick...really sick twice in January. After 2 weeks of laying in bed wondering why I was being punished and plotting my revenge on the nasty little germs that were laying waste to me, I simply fell out of the habit of blogging.<br />
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And once the daily habit is gone it becomes a struggle and a nuisance to do it.<br />
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I thought about it a number of times (I really did)...I have even had funny things to share. Like planning The Ex-Wife/Friend's wedding and being her Maid of Honor. Or some very yummy recipes. Randoms musings and in case you missed the announcement last December I am engaged so I have a whole wedding to plan and plan and plan.<br />
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As the months wore on I got more and more agitated at everyone...I was angry and my Health Nut Sister pointed out often condescending and unkind. I don't like that part of my personality. I work hard on not letting that monster run amok in my life. And one of the ways I do that is be writing...its my outlet, therapy and release.<br />
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I also do yoga but haven't been doing that either.<br />
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I am back and hoping that this will help with my mental health once again.<br />
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My only question is what have you been doing for the last 5 months?Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-24466930288821011712014-02-28T13:02:00.000-07:002014-03-10T09:04:51.681-06:00Where Oh Where is my Sapphire?Today I was planning on having a productive day. Seriously I was. No really I had plans I was going to accomplish a lot of things.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2u5LRnG1RkRq_9GhfsSUXESVYCX9znrnWbYpWaRTpX0elm1wx6X-bHm-L6iIIh8JwtL59CD909F-9VSELnZk6Ioxd5kZ4PoIpaSjFBGFds3OTu-gQRkzTPmC6e336OG92pQEuC-ZOQn4/s1600/1623398_10202616969338477_1808902587_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2u5LRnG1RkRq_9GhfsSUXESVYCX9znrnWbYpWaRTpX0elm1wx6X-bHm-L6iIIh8JwtL59CD909F-9VSELnZk6Ioxd5kZ4PoIpaSjFBGFds3OTu-gQRkzTPmC6e336OG92pQEuC-ZOQn4/s1600/1623398_10202616969338477_1808902587_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Number one on my list clean off my desk at work. It was a mess and crowded...and I rally couldn't get anything done. Step 1. take everything off my desk. Step 2. wipe it down. Step 3 decide what is going back and what is not. Step 4 decide what I was doing with all the stuff that wasn't going back on my desk.<br />
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It was all going so good, I got all the way through step 2 when I started having a conversation with a coworker. I happened to glance down at my engagement ring and noticed I could see my finger beneath it....it took me a second to release my sapphire was missing from my ring.<br />
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Let the panic ensue. To say I was upset is an understatement. I was trying hard not to panic as I calmly tried to retrace my steps. And since I had been cleaning off my desk that meant that it could have been anywhere in my office.<br />
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Soon all my coworkers and I were crawling around the office, looking in garbage cans, and carefully dumping out the contents in my purse trying to find the thing. Realizing that it could be anywhere I call The Fiance and tell him to start looking for it at home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sCrhtnbXpDxH_dOF-td9hslIZTc6WovQsHY87NzZEamJ9Gr5vKqVjvDbr_vSCSfq1gk9txT64KaGp8NQQQBUqXDa2jFFRkVP5ke8-S6-Juf0oUnehTkVBzX74lmsCk-QZ9xA2Z4b-_k/s1600/1653962_10202617558353202_587722312_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sCrhtnbXpDxH_dOF-td9hslIZTc6WovQsHY87NzZEamJ9Gr5vKqVjvDbr_vSCSfq1gk9txT64KaGp8NQQQBUqXDa2jFFRkVP5ke8-S6-Juf0oUnehTkVBzX74lmsCk-QZ9xA2Z4b-_k/s1600/1653962_10202617558353202_587722312_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>After reassembling my purse I decide to check outside and in my car. As I carefully backtrack my steps to my car and find nothing my despair and panic is getting worse. I am almost in tears by the time I open my car door and start looking around on the floor. I glanced at the seat of my car and again almost start crying again because sitting there as if it was enjoying a drive was my sapphire.<br />
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I immediately snatch it up as if I am saving the world from certain doom and run back into the office. I carefully wrap it and the ring in saran wrap and place it in a baggie then safely tuck it into my now very clean purse.<br />
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I am now left wondering why all the panic. Yes it would have been sad but I would still be engagement. The Fiance would still love me, we would still get married and live "happily" ever after. I just kept thinking it's a symbol of The Fiance's love...I won't have that symbol. Its a silly thought, I knew he loved me before I got the ring.<br />
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Thankfully it all ended well but my finger feels very very naked.<br />
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Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-63346994062695770552014-01-06T21:17:00.001-07:002014-03-10T09:01:55.419-06:00Organizing My Closet - Part 1 or Is 49 Scarves to Many?Every year I have a desire to get something in my life organized and some what manageable...this year its my closet. It is a mess on a massive scale. If you judged me just by my closet you would wonder when my episode of Hoarders was airing.<br />
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I can never find anything, everything is crammed in there and I couldn't figure out how to make it functional. Part of the problem may be the abundance of clothes, shoes and accessories currently in my clothes but isn't that the point of a closet to store your clothes, shoes and accessories.</div>
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To make matter more difficult I have to share the closet with The Fiancee and its poorly laid out. (I am sure it was designed by some man that thought he will angle it to make it look nicer but really there is just wasted space). </div>
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After staring at the problem for 3 days I took action. (I would like to note that I am only organizing my side of the closet, The Fiancee can fix his side. I'll help but he needs to do the work, its his stuff).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
I decide the first thing I need to tackle were all my scarves. I have a lot of scarves. I love them. next to books they may be my biggest weakness. If I see a scarf I buy a scarf. All my friends and family know I like scarves so they buy them for me, often. Even The Fiancee (I wonder how many times I can insert The Fiancee into a single post, I just really like saying it) has bought me a scarf or two (3) since we have been together.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
First, I rounded up all the scarves I currently owned. Most of them were hanging on hangers in the closet but a few were in a pile on the floor of the closet, some were in a pile on my blanket chest and there were still more in my car. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then I folded them nicely and laid them out on the bed. I then tried to figure out how am I going to organizing all these scarves. It was daunting and overwhelming and just when I was about to throw them all back in the closet I had a moment of brilliance...seriously it was brilliant.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I decide in my moment of brilliance to use an over the door shoe rack to store my scarves. See brilliant. I may not be the first person to do this but I don't know anyone else doing it and it worked amazingly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlhD71hB9I9yLWMt6G_y6V1RAWymNTTIFIrBX5E6euQeNUF6pn0hCIFm9gxkVCBju2Vnt4fcQ3h3d_lHgLp90yS6t4uH1kM87xsaUbvAXjoyXSQSUz1bmOA3qEDmZHmUStSJQa4HIi-4/s1600/20140104_164649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlhD71hB9I9yLWMt6G_y6V1RAWymNTTIFIrBX5E6euQeNUF6pn0hCIFm9gxkVCBju2Vnt4fcQ3h3d_lHgLp90yS6t4uH1kM87xsaUbvAXjoyXSQSUz1bmOA3qEDmZHmUStSJQa4HIi-4/s1600/20140104_164649.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is just a standard 24 pocket shoe racket. I wasn't sure, at first, it would be big enough because despite getting rid of a few scarves I had 49 of them and I wanted to be able to see them and quickly decide which one to wear. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I discovered that the pockets are big enough for 2 standard scarves to fit nicely. I had already folded them so I just paired them with a buddy and start putting the lesser wore ones at the top and bottom. Popular ones at eye level. The bulkier scarves took up one space and all the little ones that you tie on your purse or in your hair are all in one pocket. The Fiancee (5 times) is impressed and I can even add a scarf or two without having to get rid of any. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now I completed step 1 of my closet overhaul...Check back next week for Organizing My Closet - Part 2 or When Did I Buy That?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-63505987128415127252014-01-05T17:43:00.000-07:002014-01-05T18:42:31.874-07:00Is That a Pepper in Your Pocket or Are You Just Happy to See Me?The Fiancee and I recently had a night out, we went to as restaurant that specializes in spicy food...some of it is crazy hot. Which is good with us, we don't mind a little kick to our food. We are not eating ghost peppers or anything but we don't mind our food to be a little sassy.<br />
<br />
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kYvPswOUX8SPtT1qb6U58sE0J87cFi5U9nztel5P1y-RL1o61DX7E3RRg-RGtL4wODl4e44eqHWKiA3KFroY4pKU_DV8ENQe2R-TSpEDSdyS_r3zHgiu2waV8GIxVz6MIulITd9_3qo/s1600/pepper.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kYvPswOUX8SPtT1qb6U58sE0J87cFi5U9nztel5P1y-RL1o61DX7E3RRg-RGtL4wODl4e44eqHWKiA3KFroY4pKU_DV8ENQe2R-TSpEDSdyS_r3zHgiu2waV8GIxVz6MIulITd9_3qo/s1600/pepper.png" height="320" width="192" /></a></div>
<div>
One of my favorite spice blends is Caribbean Jerk...at least it was until the other night. </div>
<div>
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<div>
After two bites my mouth was burning.</div>
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Half way through the meal my eyes were watering.</div>
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By the last bite my cheeks were flushed and my mouth was on fire.</div>
<div>
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<div>
At first I thought it was because they make their Caribbean Jerk spices hotter than normal but The Fiancee took a bite and didn't think it was hot as I did.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then I thought the reason it burned my mouth was because I am getting older and strange things happen when you are getting older. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some times your knees creak when you get up, and your hair isn't as thick as it use to be and for me I guess I can't eat spicy foods like I did when I was younger. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have two options; I can either stock up on cottage cheese or I can just suffer the side effects and eat spicy foods.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love spicy foods and I hate cottage cheese....spicy foods it is.</div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-66132433747824512142014-01-05T15:42:00.001-07:002014-01-06T19:21:20.485-07:00Rules for Menu Weekly Planning<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPGd-YEBF1sS6eXTrJS6Hwu5eGnCqDkd_sY0unybHl0XBs3lddQ92WKOZIXxsvZCN8yVpLsUln1SSPD6BuHkBbTBNge4LAbEkSL5ctn5LRBOVwZ-BE6nAB1REC5p1JQEOpenjHw8GtMg/s1600/grocery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPGd-YEBF1sS6eXTrJS6Hwu5eGnCqDkd_sY0unybHl0XBs3lddQ92WKOZIXxsvZCN8yVpLsUln1SSPD6BuHkBbTBNge4LAbEkSL5ctn5LRBOVwZ-BE6nAB1REC5p1JQEOpenjHw8GtMg/s200/grocery.jpg" height="200" width="179" /></a>The other day my sister asked how I menu planned. I <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2012/10/i-am-not-eating-that.html" target="_blank">always have a plan</a> and don't stress the nightly question...what's for dinner?<br />
<br />
I try and menu plan a week in advance but have recently challenged myself to do 2 weeks at a time. I have a hard time shopping for two weeks, I always end up going back to the store for something I forgot, today I forgot the frozen spinach. It was on my list and everything. I have considered planning the menu then shopping for the first week one day and the next week another day but I really want to just go to the store once for the two weeks. I am working on it.<br />
<br />
I believe its important to keep dinner simple but yummy not just for your self but to get the kids to eat. I have a couple rules I try and follow to keep my cost down and to make it easier for me and everyone involved. It doesn't matter if it's for 1 week or 2 these rules work for us.<br />
<br />
I didn't just wake up one day and immediately had a plan that worked for my family. I had to experiment and and tried different things until I found what works for us best. These rules may not work for your family but hopefully it will give you a place to start when developing your own plan.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1GsQU9hYb7GH8vy1rGbWgNyYy_ZZw-0qkCoICFZs5xOWx96oNbYHcCZPNF0WURwx15L81JT_49TfgaeYPDKHDwjahIY2ydS69pCdjSaG1O27QUjfu5-8WalJTnHd8UdJzy-RrIkxeN4/s1600/IMAG0636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1GsQU9hYb7GH8vy1rGbWgNyYy_ZZw-0qkCoICFZs5xOWx96oNbYHcCZPNF0WURwx15L81JT_49TfgaeYPDKHDwjahIY2ydS69pCdjSaG1O27QUjfu5-8WalJTnHd8UdJzy-RrIkxeN4/s200/IMAG0636.jpg" height="200" width="119" /></a>
<b></b><br />
<div>
<b><b><br /></b></b></div>
<b>
The Rules</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Once a week we have a vegetarian meal - The Fiancee (formerly The BF) is not always a fan of this night but is a good sport and eats whatever I prepare.</li>
<li>At least one crockpot night - sometimes we have three or 4 of them but I love my crockpots.</li>
<li>One new recipe - sometimes no one likes the new recipe but we tried it.</li>
<li>Tuesday's are the night the "pseudo" step-son cooks so that is kid friendly easy dinner night </li>
<li>One family favorite - yummy dinner night; taco soup, hamburger soup, spaghetti, tomato soup, taco </li>
<li>One pot meal - I like to do this a couple nights a week.</li>
</ol>
So those are the rules I use to decide whats for dinner but where do I get the recipes. Like a lot of people I get them from my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mj_scott/food/" target="_blank">pinterst board</a> but before I start looking for recipes I go through the pantry and freezer to see what I have on hand. I try to stock up on sale items we use a lot and I never buy meat unless its on sale.<br />
<br />
After I figure out what I have I then find recipes from pinterst, cookbooks, websites or the ones I just know because I have been cooking them for 15 years.<br />
<br />
<b>The Menu</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Monday: Corn Chowder (rule 1)</li>
<li>Tuesday: Pineapple Chicken and Rice, Vegetables (rule 4)</li>
<li>Wednesday: Creamy Ranch Pork Chops, Potatoes, Carrots (rule 5)</li>
<li>Thursday: Hamburger Stew (rule 2)</li>
<li>Friday: Turkey Stir Fry and Rice (rule 3)</li>
<li>Saturday: Tacos, Chips (rule 2)</li>
<li>Sunday: Turkey Noodle Soup (rule 6)</li>
<li>Monday: Meatball Sliders, Vegetables (rule 3)</li>
<li>Tuesday: Pigs in a Blanket, Mac n' Cheese, Beans (rule 4)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-M68PozMccVZDbsdZBeT08BRk5lNB4xiC93VxauFZOntUzaqeH8PEIUQK0VTiTCOMeZwqc4eUbP4UnoxeyF6t_z8Ptk7Gb3HSsGyEiUagYOiTbblAmriFdlPo9bac3F_DDjMv_mJY5go/s1600/IMAG0634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-M68PozMccVZDbsdZBeT08BRk5lNB4xiC93VxauFZOntUzaqeH8PEIUQK0VTiTCOMeZwqc4eUbP4UnoxeyF6t_z8Ptk7Gb3HSsGyEiUagYOiTbblAmriFdlPo9bac3F_DDjMv_mJY5go/s200/IMAG0634.jpg" height="119" width="200" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Wednesday: Enchiladas, Rice, Vegetables (rule 5)</li>
<li>Thursday: Italian "Wonderpot" (rule 1)</li>
<li>Friday: Tomato Soup, Grilled Cheese (rule 2)</li>
<li>Saturday: Quesdillas (rule 6)</li>
<li>Sunday: Sub Sandwiches (we are actually eating out this night)</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That is what we are having for dinner for the next two weeks. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Bonus Tip</b>: Be </span>flexible<span style="font-family: inherit;"> if you are having one of those days were you want to run screaming into the night...pick up pizza on your way home. You can always have that nights dinner the following week.</span></span></div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-84075668078240868712014-01-02T06:38:00.000-07:002014-01-02T06:38:00.137-07:00Are You Being Poisoned?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxNl8ce30s3fd3SyMDyWhTySu1_yXJhcGekMimAP6PgVfQYV76zKrVbdi8HVttYuwq_kS6B8izqqETiw_04qkwRD-vZXBLsrVZJ-85u0xe4S0O9Ip7kVbFUCStZ6MJavf25u7awasN6U/s1600/poison1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxNl8ce30s3fd3SyMDyWhTySu1_yXJhcGekMimAP6PgVfQYV76zKrVbdi8HVttYuwq_kS6B8izqqETiw_04qkwRD-vZXBLsrVZJ-85u0xe4S0O9Ip7kVbFUCStZ6MJavf25u7awasN6U/s1600/poison1.png" /></a>Since its a new year I figure it is time to get rid of the bad in our life.<br />
<br />
There are many ways yo be poisoned.<br />
<ol>
<li>You could ingest toxic chemicals. </li>
<li>You could be bitten by a venomous spider or snake. </li>
<li>You could be eating foods that are slowly poisoning you. </li>
<li>You could have people in your life that are not good for you.</li>
</ol>
The last one is what I will be my topic today. Are the people in your life poisoning you?<br />
<br />
There are several times of "bad for you people":<br />
<ol>
<li>The first is the everything is the "<b>anti-silver lining</b>": No matter what happen its always bad. They get a promotion, they hate their job. They go on vacation but only talk about the dirty house they came home to. They get 97% on a test, it's not 100%. They find the one rain drop in the sky and its now a monsoon.</li>
<li>Next comes "<b>the my life is better</b>". Congratulations you got engaged but your story isn't very romantic is it? Mine on the other hand was wildly romantic and better than any other story ever.</li>
<li>My favorite is the "<b>fun sucker</b>": Similar to the anti-silver lining person, this person has the uncanny ability to take the most awesome amazing moment and drain every ounce of joy right out of it.</li>
</ol>
It's not always easy to get this people out of your life especially when they are coworkers and family but you<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xjRDpUvYtT5uTb9JgX6MqljtT562Pdn5niu3OPC80c579bM4kIjSkC9_9BafY0qG1MatOa_WBCFHFFr-R2Ba723Sh6hfZBptOOnWRVfgFhY8YIBnP0X2qPKH2-jK9xI05gGKCSx05o0/s1600/poison2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xjRDpUvYtT5uTb9JgX6MqljtT562Pdn5niu3OPC80c579bM4kIjSkC9_9BafY0qG1MatOa_WBCFHFFr-R2Ba723Sh6hfZBptOOnWRVfgFhY8YIBnP0X2qPKH2-jK9xI05gGKCSx05o0/s200/poison2.png" width="149" /></a></div>
can limit your exposure to them as much as possible. Having people like this in your daily life will put a strain on your mental, emotional and physical health.<br />
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I am not advocating you go around only looking at puppies and rainbows...sometimes life is hard and sad but these people make it worse with their unsupportive and negative attitude.<br />
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Instead you should surround yourself with the following 4 types of people:<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 22.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The Helper</b>: Protects you when you are vulnerable, and likewise your wealth, being a refuge when you are afraid, and in various tasks providing double what is requested.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 22.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The Enduring Friend</b>: Telling you secrets, guarding your own secrets closely, not abandoning you in misfortune, and even dying for you.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 22.796875px;"><b>The Mentor</b>: Restraining you from wrongdoing, guiding you towards good actions, telling you what you ought to know, and sho</span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 22.796875px;">wing you the path to productive life.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 22.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The Compassionate Friend</b>: Not rejoicing in your misfortune, delighting in your good fortune, preventing others from speaking ill of you, and encouraging others who praise your good qualities.</span></span></li>
</ol>
<span style="line-height: 22.796875px;">In addition to surrounding yourself with these people you should also become them to the different people in your life. </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 22.796875px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 22.796875px;">Who in your life can you be The Helper? The Enduring Friend? The Mentor? The Compassionate Friend?</span>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-10874080844181772112014-01-01T12:50:00.000-07:002014-01-01T13:17:42.315-07:00Goodbye 2013, Hello 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf5ZBWi2sMRAM6_UWQ3a4JL5StidrhplkITEKp-qqPfQm5xD_vfzYx9tBL-_-j9tgAJhwRw_3NgBCRqDpevM2uCdRlEca8_5C8qCp_BZtuSPYHwupanm_mHNbWijO-TMozNtiSpnj1XrU/s1600/goodbye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf5ZBWi2sMRAM6_UWQ3a4JL5StidrhplkITEKp-qqPfQm5xD_vfzYx9tBL-_-j9tgAJhwRw_3NgBCRqDpevM2uCdRlEca8_5C8qCp_BZtuSPYHwupanm_mHNbWijO-TMozNtiSpnj1XrU/s320/goodbye.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
Before I say hello to the new year I thought it would be fun to review some of the most memorable memories of 2013.<br />
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According to Facebook:<br />
<ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidzfqla2NzsMpaT3P_R650INXIGbvqqE5X6CiB5fqij9FHha6gokJw9iySlFzn8D0qvdyub3Jg5h2B6YU2F02ZRvwtw_WSSXDD4ZMiTfPGmMbuvIxD_JYI8Zl94suk-N9E-pl163l9XBk/s1600/tashi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidzfqla2NzsMpaT3P_R650INXIGbvqqE5X6CiB5fqij9FHha6gokJw9iySlFzn8D0qvdyub3Jg5h2B6YU2F02ZRvwtw_WSSXDD4ZMiTfPGmMbuvIxD_JYI8Zl94suk-N9E-pl163l9XBk/s200/tashi1.jpg" width="119" /></a>
<li>Going to see Les Miserables with friends: it was for The Ex-Wive/Friend's b-day, she cried like a baby.</li>
<li>Making the following family rule that we don't always follow but we try: <span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I made a new family rule, from the time I get home from work until after dinner no tv no computer and no cell phones. Everyone seemed to handle it well except me....I was freaking out that I couldn't check my phone.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Celebrating my puppies 10th birthday. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 18px;">This status: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tonight I had strawberry shortcake for dinner....it was my mothers day gift to myself</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Admitting I graduate high school 20 years ago.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The loss of a dear friend.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 18px;">My 38th birthday and the 38 cupcakes my sister made me. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_woOCZoAVOPEFu1guV03cpHNkPbtQu3ETCMqjsS9BcH7kgW1-TDoy17d_Ms8-QvUj7jfKKXVeZHm8CmwYTgxbU2jSQ94wKR2NTLU2No2Vm-r2t6MsS6ZxtJ3svwXUmfp4tlm-5DjmCI/s1600/bdaY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_woOCZoAVOPEFu1guV03cpHNkPbtQu3ETCMqjsS9BcH7kgW1-TDoy17d_Ms8-QvUj7jfKKXVeZHm8CmwYTgxbU2jSQ94wKR2NTLU2No2Vm-r2t6MsS6ZxtJ3svwXUmfp4tlm-5DjmCI/s200/bdaY.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Candy making with the family.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 18px;">My Engagement. </span></li>
</ol>
<span style="line-height: 18px;">And the most popular post from 2013:</span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/01/i-am-lazy-cook-part-2or-more-freezer.html" target="_blank">I Am a Lazy Cook Part 2...Or More Freezer Meals.</a></span></li>
<li><a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/02/casserole-freezer-mealsthe-not-so-lazy_27.html" target="_blank">Casserole Freezer Meals ...The Not So Lazy Freezer Meals</a></li>
<li><a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/12/he-put-ring-on-it-my-engagement-story.html" target="_blank">He Put a Ring On It</a></li>
<li><a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/11/stockings-and-garters-and-corsetsoh-my.html" target="_blank">Stocking, Garters and Corsets...Oh My</a></li>
<li><a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/11/christmas-bookmarks.html" target="_blank">Christmas Bookmarkers</a></li>
</ol>
My favorite moment was The Fiancee's (then The BF's) surprise proposal. Can I say I am still in shock about it.<br />
<br />
Okay on to 2014.<br />
<br />
I don't like resolutions but I love setting goals and I only have one big one for the new year. I want to learn to sew...yup I am shocking everyone by becoming more and more domestic.I just want to make a nice simple quilt for <strike>The BF</strike> The Fiancee and I. Do you think I can do that in 365 days?<br />
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What are your favorite memories form 2013?<br />
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What are your 2014 goals?Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-25004646176552789882013-12-15T14:47:00.003-07:002013-12-15T17:10:57.530-07:00He Put A Ring On It - My Engagement StoryIf you follow me on Facebook than you know that The BF completely surprised me by proposing over the weekend and I said yes (like I was going to say anything else). Since I share all my other stories with you: <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2011/06/how-to-date-your-friends-ex-husband.html" target="_blank">how we met</a>, <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2011/05/you-buy-condoms-no-you-buy-condoms.html" target="_blank">our weird conversations</a>, <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/08/here-is-some-ice-cream-please-date-my.html" target="_blank">our "disagreements'</a>, <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/10/short-courtship-i-dont-think-so.html" target="_blank">the time line of our courtship</a>...I guess I should share our engagement story also.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRtgT2cnbU0S7RrNE4c0FgDs8nxp3H-ohiln7xRaHnECx62cUnzwBSsoe3Na5V_m0n9I6IJbKOWBsELlwaPS4RyecM7_wtJP1TTdfqDjKtZ0wp3wBqryHUWqx5OoXMy7-KvJ1V8Tz4O8/s1600/family+pictures+087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRtgT2cnbU0S7RrNE4c0FgDs8nxp3H-ohiln7xRaHnECx62cUnzwBSsoe3Na5V_m0n9I6IJbKOWBsELlwaPS4RyecM7_wtJP1TTdfqDjKtZ0wp3wBqryHUWqx5OoXMy7-KvJ1V8Tz4O8/s320/family+pictures+087.JPG" width="213" /></a>When I say completely surprise me, I am not kidding. I had no idea it was coming...that doesn't mean I haven't dropped hints or told him this is how you should do it and this is the ring I want. You know the normal stuff but I didn't think it would be this weekend or this year or even this decade.<br />
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Its not easy to surprise me, mostly because I am a great big control freak and I plan out a lot of our lives. I even tell him what to get me as gifts for my birthday and Christmas. He has learned to stick to the list. Its never good to deviate from the list or what I have planned.<br />
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To be honest I hate surprises...I hate them so much I once planned my own surprise party. I am not kidding. So you can see what a feat it is to catch me unaware but that is exactly what The BF did yesterday morning.<br />
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The day started innocent enough...we had a lot of things happening. The BF had to work early, then a family party at my mom's and then later a family party at The BF's family. Lots to do and we were on a schedule (did I mention I like planning everything).<br />
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After The BF returned from work he jumped in the shower and I was putting my makeup on while sitting on our bed watching a rerun of <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Women's</a> cooking show on Food Network (I love her show, blog and books). Just as The Pioneer Women starts sharing her wisdom on keeping the romance alive in your relationship, The BF walks over to me partially dressed and starts kissing me and telling me that he loves me.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomWLcySm3yvYVQUsTiFbMTFq5cQufhhKTqANjGvdcJAbiFDGqamqbiB-3yzzaV1SicVQz1gtFtX9WXC24Yz37IEDhoNVLn1aRHu3hkvWaNRpBqrNMYrUVg0CKNOQpLsv2eQIKcAE9hHE/s1600/ring12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomWLcySm3yvYVQUsTiFbMTFq5cQufhhKTqANjGvdcJAbiFDGqamqbiB-3yzzaV1SicVQz1gtFtX9WXC24Yz37IEDhoNVLn1aRHu3hkvWaNRpBqrNMYrUVg0CKNOQpLsv2eQIKcAE9hHE/s320/ring12.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I thought he was being silly after all romance was the topic on TV. I kissed him back asserted my return affection but told him we need to get moving. When out of the blue he drops down on one knee next to the bed.<br />
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Then he opens his hand, he was holding a ring, places his hand on the bed and asks me to marry him.<br />
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I was stunned, shocked and in disbelieve. I asked are serious and he smiled and said yes. I asked like really serious, change your Facebook status tell everyone serious. He said yes...and so I said yes. Like I said I was shocked and completely caught off guard. Luckily I had just painted my nails....even if I had painted them black.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3kDDMOFnV9TA6XukAmUf-QhhMEPRjpGGvzVn9gniaZ4gQSI0VdYgpn57YMjg5Gd_ua8BDn8deiU2gp_TstnQI56TXcZrYdgX5rr9YP6f5Wy9U0-o7wokgvROmrU8Vl1W9PKkWp79PV4/s1600/IMG_20131215_130128.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3kDDMOFnV9TA6XukAmUf-QhhMEPRjpGGvzVn9gniaZ4gQSI0VdYgpn57YMjg5Gd_ua8BDn8deiU2gp_TstnQI56TXcZrYdgX5rr9YP6f5Wy9U0-o7wokgvROmrU8Vl1W9PKkWp79PV4/s320/IMG_20131215_130128.jpeg" width="320" /></a><br />
He says he has been thinking about how to ask me for month and just decided to do it....he does keep me on my toes.<br />
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And that is how I got engaged while watching The Pioneer Women, with no makeup on and The BF was not fully dressed...I guess I need to start calling him The Fiancee from this day forward...until The day I get to call him The Husband anyway.<br />
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Now I need to answer the question, do I want to be a Spring, Summer, Fall or Winter bride?<br />
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<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-10577116149778603992013-11-26T20:14:00.000-07:002014-01-01T11:18:42.696-07:00Dry Shampoo, Yeah or Na?Recently I got a fancy new hair color and while it looks amazing it has a lot pf red in it and that is not a color I can maintain. As in it fades quickly....with each wash there is a little less. I only wash my hair every other day but I am wondering it I can push it to three or four days to help maintain my color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnsBmnC_pzUhKG35tCTR0uudfI_LdaU0oBW5hhtjSaOl6KYc1UOQEtvHKsd80hVRGTl1YvTRGB5l44jZZbAwx7KBLtryPOlLdBEDbMVB6cJQ5fvgdR-mH1818dikckHT7ZcwVIzw_lGw/s1600/shampoo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnsBmnC_pzUhKG35tCTR0uudfI_LdaU0oBW5hhtjSaOl6KYc1UOQEtvHKsd80hVRGTl1YvTRGB5l44jZZbAwx7KBLtryPOlLdBEDbMVB6cJQ5fvgdR-mH1818dikckHT7ZcwVIzw_lGw/s320/shampoo.png" width="252" /></a>So I am considering dry shampoo. Does it really work? More importantly do the DIY dry shampoos work?It don't have a problem spending a lot of money on hair products but if I can make and home and save my money for books, shoes or more books.<br />
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They seem pretty simple to make. A little cornstarch, baking soda and essential oil and you have dry shampoo. Now the question is should I try it. Do I dare try it?<br />
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Do I risk oily icky hair on the chance that it works?<br />
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Please let me know that you think of dry shampoo and the DIY versions?<br />
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<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-82399902760544450352013-11-24T20:45:00.000-07:002014-01-01T11:16:31.579-07:00Christmas BookmarksFor years I have been saving scrap pieces of wrapping paper thinking I will one day use it to wrap a little present...and for years I haven't used them. Then I had a brilliant idea on how to use them.<br />
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I made Christmas book markers that I will be sending to my online book club, my nieces and nephew and maybe even a coworker or two.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoic9djagPG1pFbs8ku45d_GaBCN_xBYrblntn0ROl3MvtgHKYQzB3BF1SumK01m7Y09Ucm4g4sIzt8Y6Vj-fNWsD5qlvxulW-JxQikmIHavjOupcdnLDSIgFZH_sAKSOfo5LwTfwWTS0/s1600/IMG_20131124_124646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoic9djagPG1pFbs8ku45d_GaBCN_xBYrblntn0ROl3MvtgHKYQzB3BF1SumK01m7Y09Ucm4g4sIzt8Y6Vj-fNWsD5qlvxulW-JxQikmIHavjOupcdnLDSIgFZH_sAKSOfo5LwTfwWTS0/s320/IMG_20131124_124646.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Look how cute. I made 16 in an hour in between <strike>yelling</strike> watching football. The best part was they were all supplies I had at home, no need to go to the store.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_F867aMonh4wtpKzAI4rxAdyh1fo0kJM3dB004QxaFcPIi2iqUtJDwIU8moxQ6kcGhpdKVFL9Ae5gxhMRptUzFUGZo2IehYHr2HgZfTwLZlTfkuwmZmOsSYD2wSpeVGJTP4b6kHfO4U/s1600/20131124_115930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_F867aMonh4wtpKzAI4rxAdyh1fo0kJM3dB004QxaFcPIi2iqUtJDwIU8moxQ6kcGhpdKVFL9Ae5gxhMRptUzFUGZo2IehYHr2HgZfTwLZlTfkuwmZmOsSYD2wSpeVGJTP4b6kHfO4U/s320/20131124_115930.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is what you will need:</div>
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Scrapes of wrapping paper</div>
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Card stock paper</div>
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Pencil/Pen</div>
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Glue stick</div>
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Scissors</div>
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Bookmaker you like to trace</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcEnIBCefeWo3uOnUu0ZLFVTWS1A-E4gChwrkq08ys5nPQ3hyw0tbIRyGOYmfl4bBIT3KMz8DOt5hwq_OJnUaH3GHW7BXQVWfnFS3q5RrutWk7atJLoZ3MqjV1onEIL0zAfz3aRN3rMPU/s1600/20131124_115418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcEnIBCefeWo3uOnUu0ZLFVTWS1A-E4gChwrkq08ys5nPQ3hyw0tbIRyGOYmfl4bBIT3KMz8DOt5hwq_OJnUaH3GHW7BXQVWfnFS3q5RrutWk7atJLoZ3MqjV1onEIL0zAfz3aRN3rMPU/s320/20131124_115418.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Trace your shape on the card stuck and wrapping paper. I stuck with standard rectangle ones to keep it simple and they were the perfect size to slip inside a Christmas card.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRyvsIW3Kq2uPie9tk9lLHIqTtBL2IEwHCY3qZ2PQKp5NEgYspjynRgFeaBkJ6S_yHdCzapVB4MTTQlS6BM7N0VaygBEEIUqV4EFeuiPqCWnmwLO9tY3AM5GX8YSSxEcBykK-LWqoNDk/s1600/20131124_120836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRyvsIW3Kq2uPie9tk9lLHIqTtBL2IEwHCY3qZ2PQKp5NEgYspjynRgFeaBkJ6S_yHdCzapVB4MTTQlS6BM7N0VaygBEEIUqV4EFeuiPqCWnmwLO9tY3AM5GX8YSSxEcBykK-LWqoNDk/s320/20131124_120836.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Cut out your shapes and then get your glue stick out and go crazy on the card stock....I love a glue sticks and hot glue guns.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7a_Mnfln7npFE8K9NXewvLPQC0Eft0uZYeXsLSgQsXTdVHS8FU4sxQ27rfhInSeeaDXkPWEhDElYYy5MI0MS8B-wyaA51B9MhzsMchDBYGaQDfQ_ZpOxPJ2KEgTsTfyhZzNt7LgHTDU/s1600/20131124_120915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7a_Mnfln7npFE8K9NXewvLPQC0Eft0uZYeXsLSgQsXTdVHS8FU4sxQ27rfhInSeeaDXkPWEhDElYYy5MI0MS8B-wyaA51B9MhzsMchDBYGaQDfQ_ZpOxPJ2KEgTsTfyhZzNt7LgHTDU/s320/20131124_120915.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Place your card stock on your wrapping paper, if the paper has those handy dandy lines on the back it will help to line everything up for those of us suffering from OCD. Press the paper together firmly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmfe8kv_yc9lU0BQfqBTivCT9Q4NOLKEXBqHQdE-uJZm-SvbZsNIMG3k4UIXWW1V-4D-aQyegCOHOUgV5RITQFmSTWwyPBFxxgCuBI8rlrP1wF__N01nzw884tjpYBoyLdD_Gmk5xgg8/s1600/IMG_20131124_124646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmfe8kv_yc9lU0BQfqBTivCT9Q4NOLKEXBqHQdE-uJZm-SvbZsNIMG3k4UIXWW1V-4D-aQyegCOHOUgV5RITQFmSTWwyPBFxxgCuBI8rlrP1wF__N01nzw884tjpYBoyLdD_Gmk5xgg8/s320/IMG_20131124_124646.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can get all creative by punch holes in the book markers and add some cute curling ribbon (which I will be doing for a co-worker) but these ones are being mailed so I kept it simple.</div>
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<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-38440183111858338702013-11-24T16:00:00.000-07:002014-01-01T11:18:12.755-07:00Even More Breakfasts on the Go: Pumpkin and Apple Muffins<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbtCfYo6Vmi5RhbDVPHuRVjshjJeJR6fr2md58G26LPAZEoilp5ux5i9b7KG3dejyJ-PpE8XweD5anjCH9QOsI-xkTP_dueUc29XrTjuZy6LxZi1iNnU_dgPLZQsSvl17iGe2g1IpRvU/s1600/IMG_20131124_153739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbtCfYo6Vmi5RhbDVPHuRVjshjJeJR6fr2md58G26LPAZEoilp5ux5i9b7KG3dejyJ-PpE8XweD5anjCH9QOsI-xkTP_dueUc29XrTjuZy6LxZi1iNnU_dgPLZQsSvl17iGe2g1IpRvU/s320/IMG_20131124_153739.jpg" width="320" /></a>As I have mentioned several times we are a hurry up and go in the morning family. I also have a LOT of pumpkin puree in my freezer. So its no surprise that I am making another pumpkin muffin recipe...this time I am using some apples I just happen to have hanging around.<br />
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I didn't want to like this recipe, I am not a fan of cooking with apples...to much work involved. Cutting, peeling and coring...ugh. I am a dump it all together without doing anything else kind of girl but the smell alone was enough to convenience me to make this muffins again. The after I tried one....so very very good.<br />
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<b>Pumpkin and Apple Muffin</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>1.5 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>1.5 cups quick cook oatmeal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrIhO5hBVJ6hAVCDX5pcXBZTjBYdLtL-OxsxCtS1Rev9xf2WDKGVg5otCf4YlbAFD9eZeUKpZdaiKkPe6IMe6DWMc5UoUpNNo20XHcDnlV250xuvghQxUT08guDnIIhA2QvQBcUWMrH1Y/s1600/20131124_143310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrIhO5hBVJ6hAVCDX5pcXBZTjBYdLtL-OxsxCtS1Rev9xf2WDKGVg5otCf4YlbAFD9eZeUKpZdaiKkPe6IMe6DWMc5UoUpNNo20XHcDnlV250xuvghQxUT08guDnIIhA2QvQBcUWMrH1Y/s200/20131124_143310.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>1 tsp ginger</li>
<li>1 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>1/2 tsp cloves</li>
<li>1/2 nutmeg</li>
<li>1.5 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1 tsp baking soda</li>
<li>1 tsp salt</li>
<li>2 TBSP ground flax seed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtDmo-yo1pPcmmHOUpoWnBSdvK3541ZfgLz3iil732qh-EV1sbNLFsQ_EC0bnyN5Cd2CLl3_G_aDXMvjlk9e6tXqLfddHjfyvfsxKOc7K2QO6eBmXTXalyH9l43XDBNsqDJCkW_wBzbI/s1600/20131124_150400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtDmo-yo1pPcmmHOUpoWnBSdvK3541ZfgLz3iil732qh-EV1sbNLFsQ_EC0bnyN5Cd2CLl3_G_aDXMvjlk9e6tXqLfddHjfyvfsxKOc7K2QO6eBmXTXalyH9l43XDBNsqDJCkW_wBzbI/s200/20131124_150400.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>1 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>4 eggs</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla</li>
<li>1 cup pumpkin puree</li>
<li>1/2 cup oil</li>
<li>1/2 applesauce</li>
<li>1/2 cup honey </li>
<li>2 apples chopped and peeled</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions</b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47lAt3Xa19uY2gzhrz3Rt1quQyLkeO61IGNH2c8oXdSzsJg8eDQi3RgIYFJidS1qjTzf3-SYxMApV7oOs-ssg24oQ2C3cT3PhCUW6HEKmakDr3c66SMj02qAsS3SXvGO6l-yXs66a1TQ/s1600/20131124_151437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47lAt3Xa19uY2gzhrz3Rt1quQyLkeO61IGNH2c8oXdSzsJg8eDQi3RgIYFJidS1qjTzf3-SYxMApV7oOs-ssg24oQ2C3cT3PhCUW6HEKmakDr3c66SMj02qAsS3SXvGO6l-yXs66a1TQ/s200/20131124_151437.jpg" width="112" /></a></b></div>
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<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 350 degrees</li>
<li>Mix flour, oatmeal, ginger, cinnamon cloves, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, salt thoroughly and set aside.</li>
<li>In a separate bowl mix brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, pumpkin puree, oil, applesauce, honey and apples. </li>
<li>Add "wet" ingredients to dry ingredients. Mix well.</li>
<li>Fill lined muffins tin 3/4 full.</li>
<li>Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.</li>
</ol>
This recipe made 24 muffinsMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-45367692610728854062013-11-20T20:18:00.001-07:002014-01-01T11:17:36.503-07:00My Family is UnreasonableMy family is so demanding<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFME2qg_szG4l-smN_TQsRN_RME4WHs-x5WPRdmX5zAqim2kPnvSd776Fk441J2YBUSqDuHSYppOZi3TQ4Z0NEopITlckpGiTcMmHrzMMiA8ltCgIwyPNCNfdiGNKnf7zAUvAcdRjvD9M/s1600/books5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFME2qg_szG4l-smN_TQsRN_RME4WHs-x5WPRdmX5zAqim2kPnvSd776Fk441J2YBUSqDuHSYppOZi3TQ4Z0NEopITlckpGiTcMmHrzMMiA8ltCgIwyPNCNfdiGNKnf7zAUvAcdRjvD9M/s320/books5.png" width="320" /></a><br />
<ul>
<li>Whats for dinner</li>
<li>Will you wash my pants </li>
<li>My tummy hurts</li>
<li>Look at my picture</li>
<li>Help with my project</li>
</ul>
Its so annoying don't they know I just got a new book in the mail?<br />
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A book I have been waiting and waiting and waiting to arrive.<br />
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A book that is the 4th book in a series I love. A series that is a spin-off of a different favorite series.<br />
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I am dying to read this book but I had to cook dinner first and have family time....what the hell is that all about. I'm sure to much family time is bad for us.<br />
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What am I doing telling you all about this? I should be reading.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-12865462815612375052013-11-19T20:11:00.002-07:002014-01-01T11:15:13.634-07:00Can I be Your HeroLast night when I arrived home the "pseudo" stepdaughter says to me, "MJ you might find a surprise upstairs on your bed."<br />
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Curious to what she has created for me I walk into my room and find a hand made card. The "pseudo" stepdaughter is always making cards or pictures for me but this one caught my attention.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMpLUVXsuBPb23TunHmlJOYma8bLypf_31kkH8wqURjmQrH4MGaNSeOtIqSz37fPiKN5_IDn4mb1L0sOMFebMlfbnpmp_MCmDuThfpO-ZZ1iYUPzTtYQt0Q9AKvXS4fLencVK4forhr8/s1600/IMG_20131119_193102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMpLUVXsuBPb23TunHmlJOYma8bLypf_31kkH8wqURjmQrH4MGaNSeOtIqSz37fPiKN5_IDn4mb1L0sOMFebMlfbnpmp_MCmDuThfpO-ZZ1iYUPzTtYQt0Q9AKvXS4fLencVK4forhr8/s320/IMG_20131119_193102.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Check it out she thinks I am a Hero. I have been called lots of thinks Angel, Cheerleader, Sister, Daughter, along with some not so nice names but no one has ever called me a hero. I was so touched, I almost cried.</div>
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So I opened my card and on the inside I find this list:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMYQQJCXTCMzb23qvm3wrdHq8ei9fIxrILCeKJc3x2gVirDcAsLOKT0cd0vuxVf_clTzjeNeE08hwldVwkUXzFo5aF-INB6JMmi9BBJZqVCQ_ESr8oGd8NtdQY5q9V5Uv3rw8uXCeJFAo/s1600/IMG_20131119_193011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMYQQJCXTCMzb23qvm3wrdHq8ei9fIxrILCeKJc3x2gVirDcAsLOKT0cd0vuxVf_clTzjeNeE08hwldVwkUXzFo5aF-INB6JMmi9BBJZqVCQ_ESr8oGd8NtdQY5q9V5Uv3rw8uXCeJFAo/s320/IMG_20131119_193011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Look a list of my wonderful qualities...I think. Although I find it odd that she thinks being on time is such a good quality. She is 8 should she be so concerned with being on time? On the other hand I am excited that she thinks I am cool...I always thought I was cool but it's good to have confirmation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoPgEBvQC5Cis5D6aTWAFiedk6LReKZ_b-Gzn9uOuNe05xD4NkV8qFJyMwZ_M3Qiog3_7C70xv17MmSkop-k39Cs44X8jfPh-8F-ZZlPuJMA9iLV7g0nG4c4uS2fFd8-s2fePbi9d5bQ/s1600/IMG_20131119_192924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoPgEBvQC5Cis5D6aTWAFiedk6LReKZ_b-Gzn9uOuNe05xD4NkV8qFJyMwZ_M3Qiog3_7C70xv17MmSkop-k39Cs44X8jfPh-8F-ZZlPuJMA9iLV7g0nG4c4uS2fFd8-s2fePbi9d5bQ/s320/IMG_20131119_192924.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This was the back of the card. Which to be honest I found to be the most interesting (after the hero and cool part). Doesn't it remind you of an album cover/tattoo from the mid 80's? Should we worry that this is what she drew? We like to rock an 80's time from time to time but we don't have any albums lying around the house for to get inspiration from....possibly because we don't have any albums. Looking at the picture I can hear the electric guitar and mournful lyrics from my youth.</div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-35543802164057054492013-11-18T21:50:00.003-07:002014-01-01T11:10:18.087-07:00Do You Lie About Your Bra Size?Recently I wondered about people who keep secrets their entire life...its seems so hard. How do they do that?<br />
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This naturally lead to me wondering do I have any secrets left to tell.<br />
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I joke about being an open book, ask and I will tell you most anything. Add in a personal blog that I use like my diary and therapist, there is not much left to tell.</div>
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I have spent days and days trying to think of a secret...and I can't think of a single secret. Well not one worth writing an entire blog post about. I did think of several little ones..</div>
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<ol>
<li>I smoked cigarettes for 6 weeks in college.</li>
<li>That wasn't the only thing I smoked in college...I really liked cigars.</li>
<li>Once I cheated on a boyfriend, not the current one.</li>
<li>Sometimes I fake being ill because I don't want to do something.</li>
<li>I lie about my bra size.</li>
</ol>
Okay that last one might just merit a blog post.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsriLD9ASCZpUm11kKAmAglqC3meHbhqP1Y2zUrPnhhGxpfHoPH3kyGJOEQrZrj0v8SPyoU0yMZ2ItPfO5UoHxllTM_dC7qLam4J1r88DFmkpJTAOvpdB-BCvBgIsZ6v-cVs6ArAKGuM/s1600/big+boobs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsriLD9ASCZpUm11kKAmAglqC3meHbhqP1Y2zUrPnhhGxpfHoPH3kyGJOEQrZrj0v8SPyoU0yMZ2ItPfO5UoHxllTM_dC7qLam4J1r88DFmkpJTAOvpdB-BCvBgIsZ6v-cVs6ArAKGuM/s1600/big+boobs1.jpg" /></a>Yes I lie about my bra size.</div>
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Do you find this shocking? I would wager a bet that more women lie than do not lie (have you seen the all the padding in the bra section of any store).</div>
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I don't lie about them being bigger I lie and say they are smaller. Mostly just one cup size smaller, occasional two cups smaller. The idea of admitting my actual cup size freaks me out, it causes me to have panic attacks. I won't even admit it to myself out loud so how can I admit it to the store clerk, my mother, my boyfriend. </div>
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I have been lying about them for as long as I can remember. Its embarrassing to have the unenhanced bra size that I do...its not natural. </div>
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So here I am admitting to everyone that my cup size is...I can't do it. I really can't. Even now I want to be honest but I refuse to admit it. I am in such strong denial that I won't buy the correct bra sizes if I am shopping with someone....Do you have any idea how many time I have had to return a bra? Its truly ridiculous. Who does that? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8KIhp548gikIfgyoI6zqpB01cxiod-vCBIqb8kvWxBjlrjzWTI_A40PDFrsH4mebzQtrKsYflqiNPW-cckofwOlDPB3KB1FUTsB20KfXvKhz3YXcaiqvxrL65fYDN6gdb5yd8wEB_Vo/s1600/big+boobs3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8KIhp548gikIfgyoI6zqpB01cxiod-vCBIqb8kvWxBjlrjzWTI_A40PDFrsH4mebzQtrKsYflqiNPW-cckofwOlDPB3KB1FUTsB20KfXvKhz3YXcaiqvxrL65fYDN6gdb5yd8wEB_Vo/s1600/big+boobs3.jpg" /></a></div>
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I am not going to tell you but I wonder if they have a bra size lying anonymous like alcoholics anonymous.</div>
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Can you imagine those 12 steps? The first step would be admitting you have no power over your bra size. In the meetings you would say Hi, My name is Michael and I am a... We could hold meetings at Lane Bryant and have protests at Victoria Secrets for not having supportive bras in larger sizes for all natural girls.</div>
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Now that you know my deep dark secret...what is yours?</div>
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Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-32002639492955612732013-11-17T21:12:00.000-07:002013-11-17T21:12:51.095-07:00Tips to Organizing a Bookshelf<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67FYHuWL-xhcz4A1S2aX17BnWOGg683OkC0RH2SGIbZUQ-50tKn67TS13cz7_gcmeuLS1fH11rqNbjaxqOcITYhykxUDDQPsOKzO7ruQ7T2PixfpCwcWLfuMPqGpSmu9DMMEAhxGGFe4/s1600/20131117_131021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67FYHuWL-xhcz4A1S2aX17BnWOGg683OkC0RH2SGIbZUQ-50tKn67TS13cz7_gcmeuLS1fH11rqNbjaxqOcITYhykxUDDQPsOKzO7ruQ7T2PixfpCwcWLfuMPqGpSmu9DMMEAhxGGFe4/s320/20131117_131021.jpg" width="180" /></a>If you are like me (and I suspect some of you are) then your bookshelves are purely functional. They hold books with no room for anything else. Often times they are over flowing with more books than you know what to do with stacked high and deep. You yearn to have a bookshelf that could be featured in a home decorating magazine but then where would you put all your books.<br />
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And if you are really like me your bookshelves become unmanageable. And if you are exactly like me you decide that you need to declutter your house top to bottom and nothing is save not even your books.<br />
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So I am going to share my personal tips for sorting through my books (and since you are like me you will find them very helpful).<br />
<ol><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMOUXPc7LOBRncAHFBagj-eQRykijxrC91nEF3o-tKVh3tQT6AqyFLltWFCdUGQZorxYHyfX01E-MikHRn2Xb7An6AERV0Ursx3pWLHztMtjx639qFlmso1p6K_zKveD_LMdYgo4yeVU/s1600/20131117_131629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMOUXPc7LOBRncAHFBagj-eQRykijxrC91nEF3o-tKVh3tQT6AqyFLltWFCdUGQZorxYHyfX01E-MikHRn2Xb7An6AERV0Ursx3pWLHztMtjx639qFlmso1p6K_zKveD_LMdYgo4yeVU/s320/20131117_131629.jpg" width="180" /></a>
<li>Take all your books off the shelf. I recommend tackling the bookshelves one at a time. If you try to do all the book shelves at once you will immediately become overwhelmed and freak out.</li>
<li>Make four piles. One loved it want to read it again and again and again. Two like it may read it again. Three hated it why do I still own this book. Four haven't read it yet. Occasionally there is a fifth pile why do I have two copies of the same book.</li>
<li>Now go through the fourth pile, haven't read it yet, and ask yourself honestly am I going to read it? Make a new pile of the books you will not read.</li>
<li>Take all the hate it books and books you won't read and place in a box to be donated or traded at local book store.</li>
<li>Now place all the books from pile one, books you love, and books from pile four, haven't read, that you decided you would read back on the shelves. </li>
<li>This next step is the hard one place as many of the books from pile two, books you like, on the shelves. If you are lucky they all fit on the shelves, if you are not so lucky you have to decide which books stay and which books go.</li>
<li>Now do this do all of your book shelves.</li>
</ol>
If you are not OCD and don't feel the need to have books in a perfect order then you are done with your organizing you can now go clean out a closet. If you are like me, and I think at this point we have established you are, please read further.<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dick: <span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;">I guess it looks as if you're reorganizing your records. What is this though? Chronological?</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000131/?ref_=tt_trv_qu" style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;"><span class="character" style="color: black;">Rob</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;">: No...</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Dick:</span> Not alphabetical...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Rob:</span> Nope...</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dick: What?</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rob: Autobiographical.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dick: No fucking way</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">-High Fiedelty</span></i></div>
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Like your records there are many ways to organize your books and I have done many of them. The most common is alphabetical by author or title, this one is very handy when trying to find a book. There is the artistic way of grouping similar book jackets together, all the yellow ones together. This is the most frustrating way because I can never find my books.</div>
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My favorite way is by genre. This is where you get to decide how you would group your books...I don't always agree with book stores.</div>
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<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Go through your bookshelves and purge your books (see above steps)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Now go through all your bookshelves and get all the books from any genre. (we will start with mysteries).</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Decide which book shelf you want the mysteries on and take all the other non-mysteries off that book shelf. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Now fill your bookshelf with your mysteries.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Do this with all your books, you may have several genres on one books shelf depending on how many books you have it that genre. </span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">If you are really obsessive with your books like me, and we know you are, this is where it gets crazy. You have to decide how do you want to sort your genre. I personal like putting my favorite authors at eye level and I fit the others around that, here is how.</span></div>
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<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Look at your genre and decide who in that category is your favorite.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Stare at your book shelf and decide where your eye goes to first. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Put your favorite author in that spot. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Organize the other books on the other shelf.</span></li>
</ol>
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If you take it to the level I take it to there are a few more steps you need to finish. You purged, sorted and decided on your favorite author but in what order to you place the books on the shelf. That is simple, chronologically from date of publication.</div>
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Of course you are bound to run into the problem where the series was published out of order and are torn. Do you place them in the order they should have been written or the order they were published.</div>
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I suggest the order the series should have been written unless its the Phillipa Gregory books and then you have to put The Cousin War books before The Tudor Court books even though the were written in the other order. Having those books in any other order but historical chronologically is a crime.</div>
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How do you organize your books?</div>
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Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-86776008441761340862013-11-13T20:14:00.000-07:002013-11-13T22:00:51.502-07:00A Conversation Between Two SisterLast night while I was lost in thought and contemplating all the mysteries of the universe, my Health Nut Sister and I had the following text conversation.<br />
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<li><b>Health Nut Sister:</b> I want u to know your hug was suspicious earlier</li>
<li><b>Me:</b> Are you fucking serious? I was trying to be nice you seemed stressed.</li>
<li><b>Health Nut Sister:</b> I'm always stressed.</li>
<li><b>Me:</b> I thought you needed support and I was trying to give you some of my strength and Zen through physical touch...apparently I need to work on my transference.</li>
<li><b>Me:</b> I am blogging about this</li>
<li><b>Health Nut Sister:</b> U never usually hug me just to hug. It almost seemed like a hug of an apology like u were apologizing for a future incident.</li>
<li><b>Me:</b> I have no plans to do anything bad to you...I was trying to be supportive.</li>
<li><b>Me:</b> My feelings are seriously hurt.</li>
<li><b>Health Nut Sister:</b> I didn't think u would do anything bad persay more something that u would make me do for my own good kind of big sister thing.</li>
<li><b>Health Nut Sister:</b> I was not meaning to hurt more investigating.</li>
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Yes that is right I was accused of giving a suspicious hug because that is how we roll in my family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYC6Ciot96VxWdFUa7xoQI5OZUVaDIH5oEfFYBT2HY_-VbRfkIkr5RAWLWdecpKespkQhQBk40JT2bHx2WtuseT3cTYJ9cr5s-Zb6uEr6700X_0phk0UTWwmz9mkCi7NOANumPSfPFsf0/s1600/sister4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYC6Ciot96VxWdFUa7xoQI5OZUVaDIH5oEfFYBT2HY_-VbRfkIkr5RAWLWdecpKespkQhQBk40JT2bHx2WtuseT3cTYJ9cr5s-Zb6uEr6700X_0phk0UTWwmz9mkCi7NOANumPSfPFsf0/s320/sister4.png" width="238" /></a></div>
<div>
Okay okay in my sisters defense I do make her do things that I believe are good for her but its only because I am right and she should really listen to me more often. </div>
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And she pulls the little sister card out all the time. Today she wanted to come to the office and update her resume, she shows ups and hands me a hair tie and asked me to french braid her hair. My sister is 33 and I am still french braiding her hair even though she knows how to french braid. </div>
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You boss siblings around, give suspicious hugs and you french braid hair even when you are both grown up and have families with kid.</div>
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You may notice that I never blog about conversation I have with the little sister...that is because she often doesn't answer my texts and she wants approval of all posts about her....she cracks me up. Everyone knows all is fair in war and blogging. </div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-21426723468810943242013-11-12T21:53:00.000-07:002013-11-12T22:42:35.250-07:00Does Everyone Love Raymond?I am a big believer in family. Family is important. But can you have to much family? Does having overly involved family cause problems in your relationship?<br />
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I believe it does. Don't misunderstand me I love my family, I love them a lot but that doesn't mean that I want them involved in my every day home life. I think some things are best kept between a couple...and not just the sex stuff.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSk_sNGtrqt2Qrl7mdPMCQ-T_7PMaI6U378C8JqlxiUdxBzjRNE0b6AtzxgezKWb00KmbijTGXWPDIDvLJvokRzySLqWPMr_bMqhOFgyWOKgyCMHAL5biDiz2pshdwjSQCRoyBjRvNhQg/s1600/fight1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSk_sNGtrqt2Qrl7mdPMCQ-T_7PMaI6U378C8JqlxiUdxBzjRNE0b6AtzxgezKWb00KmbijTGXWPDIDvLJvokRzySLqWPMr_bMqhOFgyWOKgyCMHAL5biDiz2pshdwjSQCRoyBjRvNhQg/s320/fight1.png" width="308" /></a>You see every couple fights and in a "normal" relationship those fights can be really stupid. Eventually you will forgive your partner but when you get your family involved they don't forgive as easily. They remember the time when your partner said something stupid and upset you, and they may inadvertently undermine your relationship. At the end of the day (or few days) you and your partner move on and your family doesn't.<br />
<br />
There should be distance between parents and kids once they are married and start their own family. Your priority is no longer your parents or siblings but your partner ans the life you have together. You should not live across the street from your parents or siblings, my advice is move to another city or at least across town.<br />
<br />
Keeping your relationship between the two of you becomes harder and harder when the in-laws can see everything that is happening in your living room from their front window. Imagine the text messages, phone calls, and well meaning relatives all the sudden in your business; giving advice, getting involved and worst of all picking sides. Even biblical teaching tell you to leave your fathers house and cleave to your partner (seriously it is mentioned 3 times). <br />
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It might sound fun and convenience to have grandparents and aunts/uncles living next door or across the street but the constant involvement in your life will cause nothing but stress and strive. I know sometimes family helps by babysitting and picking kids up from school and oh yeah the cousins can play together but all that can be done from different neighborhoods.<br />
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Respect the boundaries that a family has and keep a physical distance. Remember that show, Everyone Loves Raymond, it makes great TV but in reality it makes for a bad situation <br />
<br />
None of this applies if your relationship is violent...if you are in a domestic violence situation please call the national hotline, 1-800-799-7233, to get help in your area.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-30834427667502668172013-11-11T20:30:00.001-07:002013-11-12T19:39:50.365-07:00Its a Freaking Tradition and You Will Enjoy ItDoes your family have holiday traditions?<br />
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<br /></div>
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As an unofficial blended family, we are trying to find our traditions. Its not always easy to establish figure out the traditions when the kids spend every other holiday with the other parent. Plus you have to combine the traditions of two different families.</div>
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This is not always easy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizh7yusohS24PfnyTZjQiytz9GSQZh8X9JTk0Wh4ZkTNzeJ96QXHNHvQuoDA1POrkJvJEjf_0Y4-QzULdJIdjASNoJ7Id7gndaEXI6hDhqOAhvBHnSpzZyDx5Bssy6AXG4qRW7gInJGWo/s1600/pjs.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizh7yusohS24PfnyTZjQiytz9GSQZh8X9JTk0Wh4ZkTNzeJ96QXHNHvQuoDA1POrkJvJEjf_0Y4-QzULdJIdjASNoJ7Id7gndaEXI6hDhqOAhvBHnSpzZyDx5Bssy6AXG4qRW7gInJGWo/s200/pjs.png" width="193" /></a>I think it's important to not focus on the time you don't have the kids but the time you do have them, for example: this year the "pseudo" step-kids will be at their moms for Christmas this year. Which means we don't have them for Christmas Eve. So this year we will open our Christmas eve gift (pajamas, hot chocolate, popcorn and a new Christmas movie to watch) we will open them the Saturday before Christmas. On Christmas Day we like to have a big fancy breakfast, so the Ex-Wife/Friend will bring the "pseudo" step-kids over early so we can eat and open gifts.</div>
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Just in case you think this is all one way...at the first of December the Ex-Wife/Friend's mom (who lives out of town) comes and visits for 2 weeks. During that time The BF is flexible with parent time, allowing the kids to spend lots of time with their grandma. When its "our Christmas" we let the gets go to the Christmas Eve service with Ex-Wife/Friend and instead of them spending time with her early in the day (like we do) on Christmas she takes them in the afternoon for a big family party at her dad's.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunTx31Kz6MuPMk_Ys75B14zOkOhUkjZfmZ7yeelw3TuFbUUDqXmd1msV1tlykEs9z_cBToYWgazHll70-sBMskXpaQc4V11r2bP4khrqyzaSXtWVfk9WHUjRO7di8xGzhXBNKkgBc18I/s1600/holiday.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunTx31Kz6MuPMk_Ys75B14zOkOhUkjZfmZ7yeelw3TuFbUUDqXmd1msV1tlykEs9z_cBToYWgazHll70-sBMskXpaQc4V11r2bP4khrqyzaSXtWVfk9WHUjRO7di8xGzhXBNKkgBc18I/s200/holiday.png" width="200" /></a>(Just in case you think this is only about time with the "pseudo' step-kids, we enjoy our time without them...we like to go to the movies on Christmas Day without them).</div>
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Our goal is to create a happy day without stress. I think it's about being flexible and respecting each others traditions. After all its not about you and your ego its about the kids, compromise is key. I know it's not always possible for this to happen. It takes every person putting their ego aside and figuring out, I know I also lucked out by being friends with the Ex-Wife/Friend first then hooking up with The BF.</div>
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I love when I start sounding like I know what I am talking about.</div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-82467081519978922342013-11-10T19:12:00.000-07:002013-11-11T14:29:10.952-07:00More Breakfast on the Go: Pineapple Pumpkin Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdMhKjCE8wXTOxSchMrmupVS4T3bvqQkpttRb1u7vT_3N-kztKY-ajJcM2yRIlZ_UGu5IHiXMmlwk5cX4_xC8DNhMKVWI7asqh9srEumvH02K1YKFjWZUeYvsyctNQGOZ8kpY7x6ElYI/s1600/20131110_171926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdMhKjCE8wXTOxSchMrmupVS4T3bvqQkpttRb1u7vT_3N-kztKY-ajJcM2yRIlZ_UGu5IHiXMmlwk5cX4_xC8DNhMKVWI7asqh9srEumvH02K1YKFjWZUeYvsyctNQGOZ8kpY7x6ElYI/s320/20131110_171926.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Have a mentioned I have a <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/11/my-eyes-are-bigger-than-my-ambition.html" target="_blank">lot of pumpkin puree</a> in my freezer?<br />
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Well I do.<br />
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Have I mentioned that we are <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/10/breakfast-on-go.html" target="_blank">not "morning people"</a> at my house. Well The BF is but he gets up really early and often doesn't have a good breakfast.<br />
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So when I found a recipe for breakfast muffins that include muffins, I thought why not. When I realized I had all the ingredients to make it even with the changes I made, I thought hell ya.<br />
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They are super easy and super good.<br />
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<b>Pineapple Pumpkin Muffins</b>
<span style="background-color: transparent;"></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljdWVh4by22UxszCu7q53l5oYo8zvPFq3vXW2CxNtf0GSwB-8uhVC1l0vYgKQb2Bga9sib3499H2a1SP9fox0L4WKSjXjt8ULPy0LMpB2Z2vMV9r5BC2A39ySQpcvYIJFJd8Js-_3Dhs/s1600/20131110_163537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljdWVh4by22UxszCu7q53l5oYo8zvPFq3vXW2CxNtf0GSwB-8uhVC1l0vYgKQb2Bga9sib3499H2a1SP9fox0L4WKSjXjt8ULPy0LMpB2Z2vMV9r5BC2A39ySQpcvYIJFJd8Js-_3Dhs/s200/20131110_163537.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLynKC361cqTDJ28K4f24GUvChY2ctxgEAA5Ta6sXj9koJs1w-8gMibvlwRbzIysWPaE-t5qKY_3uo23Lh2RIueAL7IUykenRg9WXhJhtrOsgJM24ehdHTe8_jxmOTx9rUAGYRKaS6tc/s1600/20131110_165455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLynKC361cqTDJ28K4f24GUvChY2ctxgEAA5Ta6sXj9koJs1w-8gMibvlwRbzIysWPaE-t5qKY_3uo23Lh2RIueAL7IUykenRg9WXhJhtrOsgJM24ehdHTe8_jxmOTx9rUAGYRKaS6tc/s200/20131110_165455.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">2 cups flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">1 cup oats</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">2 teaspoon baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">2 teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">1 teaspoon cinnamon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon nutmeg</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon ground cloves</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">3 Tablespoon ground flax seed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">2 large egg</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">1 cup packed brown sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">4 Tablespoons oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">2 cup unsweetened pumpkin puree</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit;">1 cup unsweetened crushed pineapple, drained</span></li>
</span></ul>
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<b>Directions</b></span><br />
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<ol><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1cCaqX2MoP0l2ZoQyqplCfJsWG3IRfi96CkKuzmijHTzFPkYM_ngT6Citux6KReBeTuf7I9J-VM6RjqNhLVdrCLnhP3SXM2wKMxRd5sLPh1-jbLvpOPy5m0kCX6btd3UI3sYd_ulreg/s1600/20131110_170235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1cCaqX2MoP0l2ZoQyqplCfJsWG3IRfi96CkKuzmijHTzFPkYM_ngT6Citux6KReBeTuf7I9J-VM6RjqNhLVdrCLnhP3SXM2wKMxRd5sLPh1-jbLvpOPy5m0kCX6btd3UI3sYd_ulreg/s200/20131110_170235.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li>Preheat oven to 400 degrees</li>
<li>Mix the flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, flax seed in a large bowl.</li>
<li>In a separate bowl mix together the eggs, brown sugar, oil, pumpkin puree and pineapple.</li>
<li>Add the "wet" ingredients to the "dry" ones. Stir until they are barely mixed together.</li>
<li>Scope evenly into 24 lined muffins tins.</li>
<li>Bake for 14 minutes.</li>
<li>Cool and place in freezer bags, then freeze.</li>
</ol>
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This recipe was inspired by <a href="http://motherrimmy.com/scrumptious-pumpkin-pineapple-muffins" target="_blank">Mother Rimmey's Cooking Light Done Right</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkhHWddk3xCokGI0jmJ8qasjrlPeTUCZ8zoY8e-PM_Or-UXVPF6h3tGGeSGvoD_UwzDY68gFZUF7KNuLkD0zIdySlQ6uZo3iGk6XBoi4mV03liomaNWhbFLaeO2XhHRKLIlAjOiowJyU/s1600/IMG_20131110_174843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkhHWddk3xCokGI0jmJ8qasjrlPeTUCZ8zoY8e-PM_Or-UXVPF6h3tGGeSGvoD_UwzDY68gFZUF7KNuLkD0zIdySlQ6uZo3iGk6XBoi4mV03liomaNWhbFLaeO2XhHRKLIlAjOiowJyU/s320/IMG_20131110_174843.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-33521854376743509272013-11-10T14:21:00.002-07:002013-11-10T14:48:33.084-07:00Making Pumpkin Puree and Buttermilk Pumpkin Pancake RecipeLast week I talked about going overboard with making my own pumpkin puree and how I <a href="http://agirlnamedmichael-mj.blogspot.com/2013/11/my-eyes-are-bigger-than-my-ambition.html" target="_blank">may have gone overboard</a>. Many of you asked how did I do it?<br />
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During the process I had planned to take pictures but as usual my camera was no where to be found and all I go was one picture on my phone.<br />
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So here goes...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RBxi5pobkzrrg-DnXr_wbNbajIFgY141vJboZzYeEHRE_dOyuOdfOtTo9lUlha35gXFLBXv2EY_e65FqGDh9A40Dg9zeOufQo_pyzsJzo8O6Icf5jwcSyq0JXMhg-noTzdzKPd2HbrI/s1600/pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RBxi5pobkzrrg-DnXr_wbNbajIFgY141vJboZzYeEHRE_dOyuOdfOtTo9lUlha35gXFLBXv2EY_e65FqGDh9A40Dg9zeOufQo_pyzsJzo8O6Icf5jwcSyq0JXMhg-noTzdzKPd2HbrI/s320/pumpkin.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Pumpkin Puree</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Whole pumpkins (if you can get organically and locally grown)</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions</b><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Wash the outside of your pumpkins.</li>
<li>Cut pumpkins in half and scoop out the guts.</li>
<li>Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</li>
<li>Cut the pumpkin into manageable pieces. (I had HUGE pumpkins which involved lots of cutting.)</li>
<li>Place pumpkins on a roasting pan (its okay to stack them just make sure the inside isn't completely covered.)</li>
<li>Add 1 cup of water in the bottom of the roasting pan.</li>
<li>Bake for about 45 minutes (this depends on the size of tour pumpkins).</li>
<li>Remove form oven and cool for 20-30 minutes.</li>
<li>Once they are cool enough to handle scrape the pumpkin from the shell.</li>
<li>Puree in blender until you reach the desired consistency (this is optional)</li>
<li>Freeze, can<span style="font-size: x-small;">*</span> or use your pumpkin.</li>
<li>When freezing place one sup in a freezer safe bag, squeeze as much air out as possible, lay flat and freeze .</li>
</ol>
Now I know you are wondering that is awesome but that do you do with all that pumpkin puree?<br />
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Very good question and I don't have it all figured out ...yet. I did share some with my sister and mom.<br />
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The BF did make pumpkin pancakes one Sunday morning (yes we are that family that eats pancakes for breakfast). Everyone loved loved loved it so I am guessing we will have it again and again.<br />
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<b>Buttermilk Pumpkin Pancakes</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>3 cups buttermilk pancake mix</li>
<li>2 cups cold water</li>
<li>2/3 cup pureed pumpkin</li>
<li>1 teaspoon cinnamon</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon ginger</li>
<li>dash of nutmeg</li>
<li>dash of clove</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Mix all the ingredients together.</li>
<li>Cook as you would any other pancakes.</li>
</ul>
I don't have a picture of these right now either. But this time its because the kids ate them so fast. It made about 12 pancakes.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Check out this great post from <a href="http://fordragonfliesandme.com/2013/10/22/canning-pumpkin-easy-how-to-plus-some-yummy-recipes/" target="_blank">For Dragonflies and Me</a> about canning pumpkin.</span>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-85438241081391900362013-11-08T22:01:00.000-07:002013-11-10T13:22:32.414-07:00Stockings and Garters and Corsets...Oh MyMom this is one of those posts you will want to stop reading right now.<br />
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Dad you should probably stop reading also.<br />
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Ex-Wife/Friend STOP READING!!!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hGwK6J0RCICHywf5x8hFZ3R-lgpsyJWr6m0zozSSEvLMfoHW2LXuBL0jddvHx5fmI2KXB4b564B0Xq5BXHISp4a5LtCNDT5ZrRCulhaVjvEhgPj72N_WN7sQtyJnxZ4D-aTcd31uZlE/s1600/Lingerie.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hGwK6J0RCICHywf5x8hFZ3R-lgpsyJWr6m0zozSSEvLMfoHW2LXuBL0jddvHx5fmI2KXB4b564B0Xq5BXHISp4a5LtCNDT5ZrRCulhaVjvEhgPj72N_WN7sQtyJnxZ4D-aTcd31uZlE/s320/Lingerie.png" width="238" /></a>Earlier tonight a friend "checked-in" to a Lingerie & Novelty Boutique on Facebook, after some fun teasing I started wondering do men really like lingerie? Is this something they want?<br />
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I do not wear lingerie. I have always been of the believe that is nice but why spend all that money on something you wont be wearing very long and will just end up balled up on the floor. You are going to end up naked why not start that way, save your money for more books.<br />
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But then I asked The BF what he thought and he said lingerie is sometimes nice. What!!! I had no idea. Now I feel like I am boring and frumpy.<br />
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Do I run out and buy something lacy and silky as a special treat? Does he like white and innocent? Black and naughty? Red and sultry? What about stocking and garters? See through nighties? Corsets? Cute and frilly? And lets not forget leather...leather sounds nice.<br />
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The options are endless and slightly overwhelming.<br />
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But then luckily I remembered one very important thing, The BF may like a lingerie but he really likes naked.<br />
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No need to panic, I have decided to give him my most guarded secret...my sizes and measurements. If he would like to see me in lingerie he can buy it and I will wear it. Until then I will do what I have always done...you can not go wrong with naked.<br />
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I think I over shared, again.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-13509700154633503152013-11-07T19:12:00.000-07:002013-11-08T09:25:37.660-07:00Dream Believe Imagine<div class="MsoNormal">
My 11 year old niece had a school assignment last week that
got me thinking. Her assignment was to write a paper or do an art project with
the theme Dream Believe Imagine. She and
I had a long talk about how this type of assignment is subjective and open to interpretation
but I started thinking…what I would write about that theme.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We talked about what it means and it lead to a funny
conversation between her and I but mostly I started thinking about what do I
dream and believe and imagine. I started thinking about the things that are
most important, causes I believe in, and what are my hopes for the future and
my mind keep going back to the same topic…food insecurity in America.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I know it’s a bizarre topic to dream, believe, and imagine
about but I did, let me help you get there.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWBeLHpbsDUvxttYtgarMUpSAd2izofeSSPGmpDYYSrdHolaY311AvbOfGbV5o99hIa-gsNuVgZMnz8On-YVvGn2vwYem7rfeEzMeaawYTCmppkaHJlJHNAZr4FohFNs9hmxPwgsl3yM/s1600/grocery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWBeLHpbsDUvxttYtgarMUpSAd2izofeSSPGmpDYYSrdHolaY311AvbOfGbV5o99hIa-gsNuVgZMnz8On-YVvGn2vwYem7rfeEzMeaawYTCmppkaHJlJHNAZr4FohFNs9hmxPwgsl3yM/s1600/grocery.jpg" /></a></div>
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I grew up with food insecurities, in fact I was about my niece’s
age. My mom, who was a single working mom at the time, had just lost her job
when I realized that we may not have enough food in our house. From the time she got laid off for 4 months
food was scarce in our house. We were lucky in that we didn't go to bed hungry
like many but we ate a lot of Ramen Noodles and that cheap store brand macaroni
and cheese that cost 5 cents a box. I was acutely aware that my mom would not
eat at times to make sure us kids had enough food each night.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even after she got a job I was aware that we were different
from my friends because while we had more food in the house there were times
when we didn't. Paydays were always exciting as mom would make up the grocery
list and we would have good food in the house for the next two weeks or at
least for part of the next two weeks. It’s not like we ate steak and lobster
but we would have hamburger and chicken those were always good times. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Eventually before the next payday we would start to run out
of food again and dinner would consist of gravy on toast. Which surprisingly was
one of my favorite meals if mom made it from the bacon drippings and not tuna.
(It just accord to me that this may be why I make kick ass gravy). Or the cheap
cans of soup that never fill you up and don’t taste good.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s because of this that I am acutely aware at all times
what food is in the fridge and cupboard. I always know what I have and don’t
have. I, to this day, just open up the cupboards and take a mental stock of
what is there. (I will admit when I was single and care free I often didn't have
food in my home…I had every restaurant menu in a 10 mile radius memorized. And
I knew every day where I was going to have breakfast, lunch and dinner and what
I was going to order so I was still taking stock of all the food I had access
to).<o:p></o:p><br />
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This brings me to my niece’s assignment….I dream of time
when no one in America should be hungry or worry about their next meal. I
believe that if everyone donated one meal a week (nothing fancy cans of chili
and a box of cornbread mix will do) we could end food insecurity. I imagine a
world where people are <span style="font-family: inherit;">compassionate enough to donate year round.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9x4yP5FO3ramxG2tf4vE8_REbcPOK-38k5AKvh88G11cqXfVuAkE-FQuBWoenHIHgnEgkefjbu6DUDq4zWKnPOfHxRZh4aunyjOiBEdDKhAI0NfnRIZ4OVCj9iGdoLDDwDxOKhRgVrvI/s1600/hands.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9x4yP5FO3ramxG2tf4vE8_REbcPOK-38k5AKvh88G11cqXfVuAkE-FQuBWoenHIHgnEgkefjbu6DUDq4zWKnPOfHxRZh4aunyjOiBEdDKhAI0NfnRIZ4OVCj9iGdoLDDwDxOKhRgVrvI/s1600/hands.png" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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When you are out shopping for your weekly and/or holiday grocery
shopping please consider donating a few cans to your local food bank. They do amazing things in communities and can
use all the support they can receive. If you can’t donate food items consider donating
a little of your time. Or organize a food drive at your church, place of
business or in your community. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think my niece drew a picture of Africa, she dreams of
going on a safari...I like her dream too.<o:p></o:p></div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8328286273309219597.post-16392674761026230042013-11-06T20:47:00.000-07:002013-11-06T20:47:36.801-07:00Single Girl in a Committed RelationshipToday I had a conversation with some friends about marriage and commitment. And I may have made a comment on not wanting to get married.<br />
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I don't know why I said it except at the time I really meant it and still mean it. I really go back and forth on if I want to get married. Is that normal?<br />
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Its entirely possible I have a little bit of a commitment problem and why I like the idea of dressing up in a pretty dress, playing princess for a day and getting presents..the actual idea of marriage scares me more than a little. I may have nightmares about it occasionally.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sA2-0DKcXu3CX2A-jsyZMcZyjRJW2q9jjY4KLxl0V4Bg3qzSES45kOemfhC-ZoS60nB5qizuNVr2qjfZ-Zj8T-8_DNDBkfC1RQCawsckDCY7M1LZhiPmcNkBowU7hdZZeA9MTq8Xpiw/s1600/wedding.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sA2-0DKcXu3CX2A-jsyZMcZyjRJW2q9jjY4KLxl0V4Bg3qzSES45kOemfhC-ZoS60nB5qizuNVr2qjfZ-Zj8T-8_DNDBkfC1RQCawsckDCY7M1LZhiPmcNkBowU7hdZZeA9MTq8Xpiw/s320/wedding.png" width="229" /></a>Don't get me wrong I love The BF and I absolutely plan on spending the rest of my life with him, I am just not sure about marrying him despite my talking about what music I will play at our wedding all the time. I started doing it to freak out The BF and the it just became a fun little game to me.<br />
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My adverse reaction has nothing to do with The BF this is all me being crazy and feeling like I need to control the entire world or at least my world...no I want to control the world. Anyway I have this crazy notion that marriage would...I am really not sure but I would have less control whatever it is.<br />
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The logical part of my brain tells me that it wouldn't really change a lot in my life, in fact it probably wouldn't change anything at all. The crazy part of my brain is unfortunately much louder than the logical part. When it comes to certain topics, like marriage and shoes, I often can't hear the logical part.<br />
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I have no idea what all this says about me...maybe I should go back to therapy.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08036770895855751152noreply@blogger.com0