tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19871853316376161342024-03-13T13:13:56.076-04:00The Scribble PadShannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.comBlogger1014125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-37030466346168702252015-09-14T01:14:00.000-04:002015-12-09T01:14:42.132-05:00Convos with Behr - September 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Its hard to believe that Behr is already four and a half. This spring and summer have made me realize how hard it is to slow down and savor these moments. But the crazy is also just as fun. Behr and Hudson are at a great age of wresting and playing together, but what strikes me most is the conversations we have these days. If you were to spend an afternoon with Behr, you would likely hear him... <br />
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...count to a hundred at least twice and skip count by hundreds to one thousand. It has become such a frequent pastime, that I have joked that there are too many numbers between 1 and 100. <br />
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...say he will do that when he is older, like 100. When he is 100 he will have to shave his face, get his drivers license and after that his keys, have a girl friend, and wear boxers. He has quite a few milestones to hit when he reaches 100 years of age. <br />
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...talk to you about the Seattle Seahawks. Much to my disdain, he has abandoned the Philadelphia Eagles to call a different team his favorite. Behr will tell you he switched because the Eagles are loosers (he used to say lossers) and the Seahawks are winners. I will tell you it is the result of peer pressure from one of his older friends, an avid Seahawk fan. <br />
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...talk about his dog. He doesn't have one yet, but he is planning all the details.<br />
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...correct your or catch you in a contradiction. Behr hangs on each detail someone gives him and when they don't make perfect sense he is not afraid to call you out. <br />
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...tell you he can read. His goal this past year was to learn to read. He has spent months working hard at it and now can read quite a few sight words and word families. Just wait until next summer. I hope his love for reading continues!<br />
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...count to 100 at least one more time. It is after all, his favorite way to pass the time. <br />
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<a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2014/04/convos-with-behr-april-2014.html" target="_blank">Past Convos with Behr</a></div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/convoswithbehr?src=hash" target="_blank">#convoswithBehr</a></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-4275190016724274782015-09-04T10:00:00.000-04:002015-09-04T10:00:03.500-04:00My New Favorite Watch<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/45691821@N04/21137321365/in/photolist-xVd1x3-ycQieg-yavEzd-xfNX4Y-ycQeT8-xVjVDa-xVe9qJ-ycQfkk-xVjYqx-xVeaLE-xVcVb1-xVcXSy-ybVYxQ-ycQgzK-ydw328-ycQfvR-ycQ7Cr-xVjToD-xfWUgB-xVcXKQ/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="JORD"><img alt="JORD" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/704/21137321365_2ebb9ded87_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
When I was first contacted by JORD to try out and share my experience with one of their wood watches, I was a bit skeptical. I'm not super into wearing things on my wrists. Plus, during the summer we spend most of our days near water. Why would I want a wood watch? Or so I thought.
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Then I looked at their website and I started to get really excited. I changed my mind about which watch I wanted to try about eleven times. I even told a friend I picked a watch completely different from the one I actually picked. Ultimately, I chose the <a href="https://www.woodwatches.com/series/fieldcrest/zebrawood-and-maple" target="_blank">Zebrawood and Maple</a> watch from the Fieldcrest Series.
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Then my watch came in the mail. It was a bit snug at first so I wasn't wearing it much. And then I unpacked the gorgeous box to take pictures and found extra links in the bottom. I have no clue why I didn't look right away, but I was thrilled that they were included and also impressed by this sign of quality.
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Once the extra link was in place, my watch took up residence on my wrist. I love it so much and simply take it on and off throughout the day if we end up near water. The colors are neutral but striking and the wood makes it very lightweight. Its actually perfect for summer, completely contrary to my initial thoughts. But you better believe I will be wearing it year round. The watch gets easily noticed without me noticing any added bulk to my wrists. Even when I am working at my computer, this watch rarely comes off. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/45691821@N04/20515512894" title="JORD"><img alt="JORD" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5685/20515512894_9c85d699ac_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/45691821@N04/21127965662" title="JORD"><img alt="JORD" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5718/21127965662_f7e984c8a3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Basically, I've been proven wrong and absolutely love wearing the right accessory on my wrist
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I love the details. I keep switching up what I wear with the watch on my wrist and even which wrist. I've traditionally be a left wrist watch wearer, but now I think my new watch is going to live on my right wrist. Look at me, I am a changed woman. (Yes, a tad dramatic, but I just have that many great things to say about this watch). These watches would make a great gift - anniversary, Christmas, graduation. Add them to your list. Your people will thank you.
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<a href="https://www.woodwatches.com/shop/women" target="_blank">JORD</a> provided me with this watch in exchange for this review, but the thoughts here are entirely my own. And I definitely started as a skeptic. My super fashionable sister also loved my watch so much when she saw it in person, she ordered her own! If you get one, I'd love to know which you pick and what you think.Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-1572302461406482832015-06-25T14:09:00.002-04:002015-06-25T14:09:49.899-04:00Packing for Summer Adventures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have already been to the beach twice this year, unheard of for our family. We are totally beach people, but our trips generally fall later in summer. Rarely ever before July. Fortunately we picked the hottest summer ever for a few early trips. We are that family driving down the road that you know is bound for a good time, our roof rack is full, there are beach bags pressed up against the back window, boogie boards in sight, and stuff piled on our laps ready for excited times ahead. Can you picture us? <br />
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If you aren't sure yet, <a href="https://instagram.com/p/qEX_mrkkEP/" target="_blank">I am an over packer</a>. Don't let the picture above fool you! We bring the wagon, the scooters, the bikes, the beach toys, coloring books, cars and trucks, board games, tennis rackets and golf clubs. When we actually get to the going to the beach part, I again over pack. I haul down to the beach looking like I am ready to stay for a week. But I am slowly learning a few tricks that make our beach adventures easier. Here are my six non-negotiable items, with a seventh snuck in for fun.<br />
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1. // The <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-room/34374827.jsp#/" target="_blank">perfect beach blanket</a> (and <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/34374983.jsp#/" target="_blank">this one</a> looks awesome too!). I've been looking for a few years. Its thicker than a sheet, like a quilt without batting and it isn't hideous or overly florally. It is lighter and bigger that the sweatshirt blanket we have used in years past. <br />
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2. // Two towels. I have learned that with a good blanket, you need fewer towels. Rarely are both ever in use. Less towels means less to lug back and forth each day. At this point (with kids ages 2 & 4) if they are getting wet, I am not sitting in my chair anyway. I figure once they are old enough to carry their own towel across their shoulders, this number can increase. <br />
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3. // <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IIVBYE4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00IIVBYE4&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=FNZ4ZS5PX4XDRY2O" target="_blank">One bucket of toys</a> (with a ball tucked inside the bucket). I've tried lots of toys and fewer toys and toys in bags, and so on. But I have realized that one bucket, which my boys can take turns carrying, is the perfect amount. And nothing else for them to play with. I have brought books and games, but really the only thing they do is dig in the sand, chase waves, or play catch. <br />
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4. // <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LZKBP3K/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00LZKBP3K&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=UWE2XCI4WBUOAR3Z" target="_blank">The ergo</a> (I wish ours had this cool whale pattern). Sometimes to get the perfect beach nap, we still need the ergo for Hudson. I know this tool is fading, but it has joined us on every beach trip since Behr was born and I can't imagine not having this security blanket. The beach nap is the ultimate for any parent. The only way to actually rest on the beach is if your kids nap too!<br />
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5. // <a href="http://refer.landsend.com/v2/share/6164373350221915088" target="_blank">Rash guard</a>. My boys have worn UPF rash guards since they started going to the beach or pool. But this year Mark and I have also added rash guards to our beach attire. Also, never before have I realized how much sun my boys get, even when I am being diligent with sunscreen (<a href="http://www.honest.com/refer_to/180790" target="_blank">my favorite here</a>). My boys love to be in the water, in the sun. And they don't have the same instinct as adults do to get under the shade of the umbrella. This summer we stocked up on rash guard from <a href="http://refer.landsend.com/v2/share/6164373350221915088" target="_blank">Land's End</a>. I was shocked by how much I liked their quality last year and I almost forgot about it this year. Fortunately, their stuff is incredible affordable and well made. This is not a sponsored post, I just really, really love their rash guard (and bathing suits too). <br />
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6. // <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000L9DNCC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000L9DNCC&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=KKQI3YBLHYZW3N7F" target="_blank">Cooler</a>. We have a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X8ULHFG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00X8ULHFG&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=BALJOXM5PDIQDQ76" target="_blank">soft-side collapsible cooler</a>, but nothing beats the old school igloo playmate cooler my parents have. Too bad we don't have room for anything else in our car... And while we are talking about coolers, what are some of your favorite beach snacks? I love tuna sandwiches, potato chips, peanut butter crackers, and apples at the beach. How about you? What do you pack in your cooler for the beach?<br />
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We are still figuring out the perfect beach umbrella, and frankly don't have room in our city apartment for beach chairs, so we always borrow them from our parents on our way. Here is a similar <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2013/07/were-on-vacation-beach-essentials.html" target="_blank">beach gear</a> post I wrote in 2013 -- we did finally get the Sport-brella and are testing it out. The only down side so far, its huge, even when collapsed, so it hardly fits in our car! <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post.</em></span> </div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-82190271893260293782015-03-02T12:46:00.002-05:002015-03-03T13:25:55.954-05:00March 2015 Goals with Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Due to family obligations and the cyclical nature of my work, January is a crazy month. I take time off blogging to focus on everything else in life. It gives me the benefit of a month of reflection. This year, it seems I needed two! A surgery and several ER visits, a road trip to Boston (see that snowy beach?) and all of the sudden, I lost February. Full knowledge that it's a short month didn't help it speed to a close with too many things left undone. You too? Okay, now to get productive in March.<br />
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My goals are more precise then they have ever been before.<br />
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Wake at 6 am each morning. Getting up first is paramount for a hope of a smooth day. When I am prepared, it benefits everyone in my family.
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Write three back dated blog post this month. The primary purpose of this blog is family record keeping. If I am not keeping records regularly, it leads me to worry and impacts my productivity. Instead of reliving the details of Halloween 2013 (yes that long ago) in my head so I don't forget them, I need to get the memories down and move on. That way they are ready for me to go back to whenever I want.
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Read once a week. Somewhere in 2014 I got too busy to read. No more. Instead of <a href="https://instagram.com/p/zkwY6bEkIR/?modal=true" target="_blank">collecting books on my nightstand</a>, I'm going to start and finish them. I am not sure how many yet, but sitting down to read once a week, during day light hours, that's my goal.</blockquote>
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Phew. Hello March. Let's go!
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<i>I'm linking up with Hayley for <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/2015/03/03/march-goals-2/" target="_blank">Goals with Grace</a>.
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<i>You can also catch some of my thoughts on hospitality over on <a href="http://www.theorangeslate.com/2015/03/02/conversations-about-hospitality-with-shannon/" target="_blank">The Orange Slate</a> with my dear friend Emily.</i>Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-16399089298755861712014-12-29T11:01:00.002-05:002014-12-29T11:01:32.962-05:00Merry Christmas 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry Christmas from our family to yours. 2014 has been a year that, at first response, I would call "hard." But it was also very good. We enjoyed several great family adventures, the boys have begun to play as friends, and we have developed family rhythms. These photos are from our family vacation in Florida taken by <a href="http://www.pambellphotography.com/">Pam Bell</a>. I am grateful that she captures our family each year and love that she gives us even the crazy faced photos <i>that didn't quite make it to <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=140730&u=587169&m=12808&urllink=&afftrack=">the annual card</a>...</i><br />
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I hope you can look back on the year, even it it was difficult, and also remember the good.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post. </span></i></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-78827855669516393912014-12-15T10:29:00.001-05:002014-12-15T10:48:57.162-05:00Sharing Christmas 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When Christmas appears in shops, and carols begin to play on the radio, giddy excitement rises within me. I love Christmastime. The light displays, the concerts, the gifts (yes, the gifts, totally my number one love language), delicious food, gatherings, hugging the people you love dearly but never see enough. You name it, I love it.<br />
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And then I begin the frenzy. I jam-pack our schedule until you feel like you can't breath because you have eaten too many hors d'oeuvres. I want all the activities, events, places, and things. I squeeze each hour to its fullest, inevitably exhausting myself and those around me. When slowing down, in an effort to do less, it feels like missing out. When attempting to hibernate for a weekend, I get hives. My tendency is to want to go, go, go. And on top of the constant activity, I am overwhelmed by the desire for things to be just so, perfectly times and positioned. I've once heard it called, "forced family fun." There are plenty of other unflattering labels, but ultimately it stems from a fear of falling short.<br />
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I've shared about <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2012/11/celebrating-season-of-advent.html">advent calendars</a> before. This year we are adding in <a href="http://www.themomdiggity.com/shop/advent-activity-pack-digital">Mom Diggity Design's</a> advent calendar (#mddadvent on instagram) and I am reading both <a href="http://shereadstruth.com/">She Reads Truth</a> Advent Study and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1642551555971967/1659908437569612/?notif_t=group_activity">We Will Wait by Heather Boersma</a>. These resources are wonderful contributions to preparing my heart for Christmas, but they can also be a downfall when the schedule or activity begins to rule too greatly. The "I must make it perfect" mentality begins to rear its ugly head. The thought to scream, "Stop interrupting me, I am reading my bible," begins to bubble up inside me. (<i>Don't get me wrong, I highly recommend these resources as well as the ones I included in my previous advent post.</i>) The problem isn't with the things I am doing or the what I use, the problem is in my heart. Reaching too far out, stretching too thin instead of focusing that all we really need is Jesus. He is the perfect gift. I will never fall short, because he has bridged the gap. He is the perfect gift. Abiding in Him is never missing out.<br />
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So what does that actually look like?<br />
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It means opening an advent activity card that says, "make Christmas cookies" and telling the boys, we have no flour in the house, but if we were to make cookies, what flavors would they be? And colors? What shapes, if we had any cookie cutter in the world? Instead of frantically fighting rush hour and rain to get to the store to force an activity, we played pretend and my kids had just as much fun! Hopefully there was also some life lessons in there about not being perfect.<br />
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Or when the boxes of Christmas ornaments sat out for days, taking up the last of the available space in our teeny tiny apartment, I waited patiently for the night we would decorate the tree and we did so one ornament at a time instead of the hurried rush that would have been the day we initially "scheduled" the decorating to be done.<br />
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Not hanging the 27 feet of pre-lit garland you just bought last year. Because some years you don't need it all. <br />
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Slowing down enough to answer questions like, "Why do we put lights up for Christmas?" and "Can we give candy canes to everyone in the city and tell them its a J for Jesus?" I have a feeling I am still bustling about too much and missing gems, but taking hold of the ones I catch and having good chats.<br />
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It means reading a few days worth of She Reads Truth at once because you are falling behind on the study, but in honesty have given yourself through January to finish reflecting on the birth of our Savior. Because why rush that?<br />
<br />
Its switching around the days in the advent calendar (that you also wrote in your calendar so you wouldn't miss them!) because the weather looks nice and it is a good day to go see lights instead of whatever was supposed to happen.<br />
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It means letting all the ornaments live on the same branch.<br />
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After eight years of marriage and Christmases, we bought stockings and a tree topper this year for the first time. The years without weren't bad. And they weren't necessary this year. But I finding building a collection of Christmas decorations symbolic of our growth -- building year over year. I try to remember this when scrolling through pinterest...<br />
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We've begun singing O Holy Night without the music in the background. It would most definitely hurt your ears. But there is something about singing "fall on your knees, O hear the angels singing" that keeps Christ in the center of our hearts and conversations. I am not standing on a mountain proclaiming my successes, I am falling on my knees, awed by the miracle in a manger.<br />
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Perhaps these aren't your particular struggles. Maybe letting these seemingly small things go would still amount to greater stress in your life. Or maybe holding things loosely looks different for you. Hear me when I say that these are all still a learning process for me. Whatever your struggle may be, remember it is a journey of growth, not a race towards perfection.<br />
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<span id="goog_753047103"></span><span id="goog_753047104"></span><br />
<br />
And lest you think our decorating one ornament at a time was happy jolly family fun, imagine this scene: Hudson pulling ornaments off the branches, separating the top foil from the ball and then stomping the foil under his feet, flattening it like a pancake. An activity that brought him great joy, laughter from his brother and increasing heartburn for me. In fact, while writing this post, I had to take one of those foil tops and ornament hangers out of his mouth. The ornaments are high! Our of his reach! He just pushes a chair up to the tree to grab them. Heartburn. There is always a bit of "forced family fun" during the holidays, but even that leads to learning, right?<br />
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And now, will you join us in Sharing Christmas?<br />
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I am honored to host with this group of fabulous ladies.<br />
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<a href="http://bowdenisms.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">courtney : bowdenisms</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/" target="_blank">shannon : the scribble pad</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.kincaidparade.com/" target="_blank">rachael : kincaid parade</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.andbabiesdontkeep.com/" target="_blank">kristi : and babies don't keep</a></div>
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<a href="http://kojo-designs.com/" target="_blank">kirstin : kojo designs</a></div>
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<a href="http://heatherboersma.com/" target="_blank">heather : heather boersma</a></div>
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<!-- end LinkyTools script -->Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-33635608945454434622014-12-12T20:20:00.000-05:002015-01-26T09:25:10.668-05:00Hudson Nineteen and Twenty Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Hudson, you catch me off guard and you know it. You get a smirk smile that comes across your face, even when trying to be serious. Or sometimes you throw me a knowing glance and then shoot your expression straight back to stone cold. Nothing with you is straight forward or overly logical, instead you toss out the curveball and then bring on the grins. I can rarely guess what you want to do or what you are about to do next. You test limits -- your own strength, how hot something is, how far you can jump or fall. I love the adventurous side of you, even if it keeps me constantly jumping to save you. Over these past two months, your risks have had better endings. Less falls, more victories. You are proud of that. <br />
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You still love everything electronic, metaphorical buttons as well. Talking on the phone is one of your favorite activities. You perk up when you hear the phone buzz or ring and often walk around pretending, soundlessly to talk to the imaginary phone you have pressed to your ear, head tilted and all. Throughout a phone call on speaker, you will repeat high at least once for every word someone else tries to say. You enjoy face-timing with faraway family, but often the iphone camera on reverse tricks you well enough.<br />
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You now say cheese and make the accompanying face whenever you see a phone or camera pointed in your direction, often preemptively "cheese-ing" before anyone even thought of taking a picture. As exemplified in the pictures below.<br />
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Communication is a strong suit of yours. Perhaps its your stubbornness, or maternally gifted desire to control, but words are few and far between. And yet, you communicate extremely well. I often joke you communicate without words better than most well-spoken adults. <br />
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The words you do say, even if rarely, include:<br />
<blockquote>
Hi, Hi, Hi <em>(always when greeting passing people, but this also means "I'm hungry" for you)</em><br />
Shhh<br />
Cheese<br />
Mom<br />
Da (Dad)<br />
Bye<br />
Yeah, yeah, yeah<br />
That<br />
Hot<br />
Dog<br />
Up <em>(you've only said this once or twice, preferring to head butt our thighs until we lift you)</em><br />
No</blockquote>
We are actively working on Off, Up, and Please, but you flat out refuse.<br />
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You enjoy using the duster and sweeping, a cleaning streak that comes from your big brother and dad for sure. I am so grateful you and Behr clean up about half the messes you make. And boy do you like to make messes. If it can be dumped or poured, you do just that. As I start to make dinner, you begin taking items out of cabinets, unloading the dishwasher, or out of baskets, covering the kitchen floor with dishes and bowls, as if you are expecting a feast. A subtle, yes I am hungry, don't forget to feed me too. Come dinner time, you yank off your still-clean-bib the bite before you spill your food down your shirt. You cleverly open your leak proof cups and full plates of food get flung around the room, only for you to happily sweep it up later. A bowl of dry cereal or crackers is your favorite thing to dump. Sometimes I can't decide if you make the messes because you know it makes me twitch or if its because you want the chance to clean it up. <br />
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Not that I would ever stop loving you, but you work your charm and win me over again and again. On even the best days, you will find me and warm my heart again. It reminds me of one of my favorite hymns, <a href="http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=david+crowder+band+come+thou+fount&FORM=VRMATS&mmalsid=&mmsosid=b597ceae-1942-fa3a-3b73-d094b0b7c415&crslsl=0#view=detail&mid=D827373C3508E50FEF6DD827373C3508E50FEF6D">Come Thou Fount</a> -- the second verse is "tune my heart to sing thy grace" -- as you remind me of my own love for you, I am reminded that the love of God is even greater. We don't have to win the favor of God, but we do need him to help us be in line with him. Hudson, in ways that I cannot seem to describe, you point me again and again to the everlasting love of God. You help, tune my heart to sing of God's great grace. <br />
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<i>"Cheeeeese!"</i></div>
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<i>with squinted eyes and everything</i></div>
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My little one and a half year old, you are moving too quickly towards full blown toddler. You will be two before we know it, but I am cherishing these wild and crazy exhausting days.<br />
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You can see more <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/search/label/Hudson">monthly updates and posts about Hudson</a> here. </div>
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<br />Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-43298561809703311392014-12-08T12:04:00.000-05:002014-12-08T12:04:04.681-05:00Hardware Store Christmas Tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv59HlC_WQcrk1XMP1_HKeh3np53Au88vF-tIa74WwkFdPF1rfg1m1ef9sFFrBlxeoJ5S4dgiCPvZC8CN_zA4i705BZWak_fukdw7wTDaJB2a5_bkTKtckBHdt4RqbKovJGbN98qWZmam8/s1600/IMG_0335.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/AVvXsEhv59HlC_WQcrk1XMP1_HKeh3np53Au88vF-tIa74WwkFdPF1rfg1m1ef9sFFrBlxeoJ5S4dgiCPvZC8CN_zA4i705BZWak_fukdw7wTDaJB2a5_bkTKtckBHdt4RqbKovJGbN98qWZmam8/s1600/IMG_0335.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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A friend recently reminded me that going to the same local hardware store for your Christmas tree each year is just as much an adventure and tradition as tree farms and suburban wonderland can be. Sometimes life in the city seems void of spirit and adventure. But supporting small business is no joke. This is our family tradition, trees from Frager's, supporting a business that is fighting its way back after a fire. We have a blast and I am so thankful for a tradition that is both meaningful and also easy, even if it isn't quite picturesque. <i> The same friend also reminded me that trees from big box stores can also be traditions (and economical to boot). </i><br />
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No matter what your Christmas tree tradition looks like, I am glad that we get a whole season of celebrating from my hardware store tree to your freshly cut off the mountain or white flocked plastic beauty. A tradition would not be nearly as special if all of our traditions were exactly the same. What are your Christmas traditions?<br />
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I've teamed up with a few of my friends to host a "Sharing Christmas" link up. </div>
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Share your heart, your traditions, your favorite family recipes, how you celebrate Jesus. </div>
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Whatever feels like Christmas in your home.</div>
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Will you join us on Monday, December 15th?</div>
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Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-75606045501759046152014-12-04T16:30:00.000-05:002014-12-06T10:01:08.175-05:0025 Family Favorite Christmas Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzJdYiMv4Arya-RTkXzyRvc8frhgu1wuMDWnXmT6bFSjPTnODw3fY_2EuDLfjd6Nd0GaYIyGtujV52T1QMY08TkVVyizh5AxTRWUJ6YIuBguzb0eJ1be4AolNPw7S5tah4YABNF5hIUjO/s1600/25+Christmas+Favorites.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzJdYiMv4Arya-RTkXzyRvc8frhgu1wuMDWnXmT6bFSjPTnODw3fY_2EuDLfjd6Nd0GaYIyGtujV52T1QMY08TkVVyizh5AxTRWUJ6YIuBguzb0eJ1be4AolNPw7S5tah4YABNF5hIUjO/s1600/25+Christmas+Favorites.png" height="961.5" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is our collection of both Christmas and winter books. I keep all of our snow and winter related books packed away with our Christmas decorations. And when these come out, a box full of our other books takes its place in the closet. This keeps our old books fresh and give us a fun host of reading throughout December and often into January. I hope these can make your December reading time as lovely as ours.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0824965000/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0824965000&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=KYXTIPRJTGDUPEKJ">Frosty the Snowman</a> by Jack Rollins and Steve Nelson</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0824918452/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0824918452&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=FKBTCOT2RKUZUDDA">The Story of Christmas</a> by Patricia A. Pingry</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0140567437/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0140567437&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=MYXDVQMEJI4NQGGR">The Little Drummer Boy</a> by Ezra Jack Keats</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0670785504/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0670785504&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=Q3F2AVRS3W3XDB2D">A Christmas Wish for Corduroy</a> by Don Freeman</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0140501827/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0140501827&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=7A2MR6BPE5MPKJMF">The Snowy Day</a> by Ezra Jack Keats</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004RBTEUU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004RBTEUU&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=PJKS5HVOYFUUFW22">Snow</a> by P. D. Eastman</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0805066217/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0805066217&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=DXIEH7LJXY6F6TPQ">A Joyful Christmas</a>, a treasury collected by James Ransome</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0762416017/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0762416017&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=2YZW6Z4ZFAMQJUZT">A Charlie Brown Christmas</a> by Charles M. Schulz</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423625757/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1423625757&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=SUUDLPW6D5OUT7GW">A Christmas Carol</a> (the baby lit version) by Charles Dickens</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/030702069X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=030702069X&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=VY2DS4XID36LOBO6">Frosty the Snowman</a>, the little golden book* </li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0307020711/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0307020711&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=YG4SAS5KYZC3KDHZ">Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer</a>, the little golden book by Robert L. May*</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1416958967/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1416958967&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=CIIYTJQA7MVPZBU5">Bear Stays Up for Christmas</a> by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/054535370X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=054535370X&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=KF7FR6ET6QK7MOKI">I am Small</a> by Emma Dodd</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0670062197/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0670062197&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=G75SSE3KVBFQRK4L">Holly & Ivy</a> by Rumer Godden and Barbara Cooney</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374334943/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0374334943&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=QUYR26KVWCIZFDJT">How Brown Mouse Kept Christmas</a> by Clyde Watson</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0824956168/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0824956168&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=RVJHX36NN7LCG7SJ">Humphrey's First Christmas</a> by Carol Heyer</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0547248296/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0547248296&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=GA2T7J2GN3RPFGWZ">Snowflake Bentley</a> by Jacqueline Briggs Martin</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0395389496/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0395389496&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=FT7C2GMGOTCSOK3G">The Polar Express</a> by Chris Van Allsburg</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IJ0H7HW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00IJ0H7HW&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=GAWSIYVXAQUNFA6X">Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree</a> by Robert Barry</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310722918/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0310722918&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=M76GRALTWO7MO4BM">Song of the Stars</a> by Sally Lloyd-Jones</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0394800796/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0394800796&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=NH5WHYHKVGCMQQ7S">How the Grinch Stole Christmas</a> by Dr. Seuss</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316127159/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0316127159&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=X7SZ3BCHCKKND62H">The Jolly Christmas Postman</a> by Allan Ahlberg</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375814442/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0375814442&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=6RAKUXYBKHFLHT3I">Babar and Father Christmas</a> by Jean De Brunhoff</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310212472/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0310212472&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=DWQCMG674OWADIMP">The Legend of the Candy Cane</a> by Lori Walburg</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0938497480/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0938497480&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=RXN6NDH4BECG34NI">A Bakers Dozen</a> by Aaron Shepard</li>
</ol>
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<i>*our copy of these two books were my Dad's when he was a boy, which makes them extra special.</i><br />
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I am always looking to grow our collection, what are your favorite Christmas books?<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post. </span></i></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-28083678055742505172014-12-03T20:00:00.000-05:002014-12-04T00:04:45.151-05:00December 2014 Goals with Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNcGB-ckH7G8TsJtxZwuZznu4j7T3SViwjZ6TnpI3RpcmvbKoHWNaYCuFchVK-WjrsuW_h9KshzN24JOMHKDay-xZvC-wwW2ROlc0k9t1JHFjQB4Act04E4oxWevtRsOe4b0Z_X4oKDqBW/s1600/IMG_0170.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/AVvXsEgNcGB-ckH7G8TsJtxZwuZznu4j7T3SViwjZ6TnpI3RpcmvbKoHWNaYCuFchVK-WjrsuW_h9KshzN24JOMHKDay-xZvC-wwW2ROlc0k9t1JHFjQB4Act04E4oxWevtRsOe4b0Z_X4oKDqBW/s1600/IMG_0170.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
As a year comes to a close, I start taking stock, things I have done, goals I have reached, but over the past few weeks I've had a surprisingly different focus. I've been thinking more about how I have grown rather than what I've done. So instead of taking stock here of accomplishments and to-dos checked off, I am praising God for his faithfulness.<br />
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My <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2014/11/november-goals-with-grace.html">November goals</a> didn't go well. My December goals are simple. As we celebrate Advent, we want to keep things simple.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Start our days with the advent calendar and reading from the Jesus Story Book Bible.</li>
<li>Involve the kids in cooking -- helping in the kitchen is one of their favorite activities and I hope one that becomes both a tradition and a fond memory.</li>
<li>Celebrate Mark's Birthday well, he was born on the 22nd and it usually get wrapped into family events, not a date celebrating my husband. So somewhere over the celebrations of Christmas, our goal is to have a date as husband and wife, specifically to celebrate his birthday. </li>
<li>Plan Behr's birthday party before we go out of town for Christmas. (Can someone tell me how he is nearly 4 already?)</li>
</ul>
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I am tempted to add more hopes to what our time away for Christmas will look like, but I am holding that loosely and remembering to approach my day in thanks and praise. </div>
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Linking up with Hayley of <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/" target="_blank">The Tiny Twig</a> for <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/category/goals/" target="_blank">Goals with Grace</a>. </div>
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I'd love to hear what your November goals are looking like </div>
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and how you balance the crazy of the season. </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post. </span></i></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-90887951795758223802014-11-14T23:30:00.000-05:002014-11-15T00:39:56.785-05:00Slow Cooker Survival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpeXSZeqFphTXDLDkMWjm6qdVf8G0hGstcSLpLPZK1__QDi8e4pa_b4byOHOVTMJULNbo32ZQX27i8OP1mixsqxNI_DRPb2mnQ1iwWTp8obFzhD0cNBsdpcX44eqo29TBO-QqO6kANhLkQ/s1600/1-2014-09-08+17.39.36.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/AVvXsEjpeXSZeqFphTXDLDkMWjm6qdVf8G0hGstcSLpLPZK1__QDi8e4pa_b4byOHOVTMJULNbo32ZQX27i8OP1mixsqxNI_DRPb2mnQ1iwWTp8obFzhD0cNBsdpcX44eqo29TBO-QqO6kANhLkQ/s1600/1-2014-09-08+17.39.36.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Earlier this fall, I sent out the plea for help to my church's mom's group. Our dinner times have reached a new level of chaos. The kids are hungry, know I am cooking, but want food right away. Hudson has taken to pulling out plates and banging them against the counter until I feed him. The only solution I could imagine was dinners that didn't require me to be in the kitchen prepping. Desperate for some prep and freeze meals I could throw in the crock pot later, my mom friends delivered. They sent some serious winners, my favorite is this <a href="http://instagram.com/p/ss0760kkJJ/?modal=true" target="_blank">Indian Chicken Stew</a> from Colleen:<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
2 lbs skinless, boneless chicken thighs cut into 1 inch pieces<br />
1 medium onion, chopped<br />
3 cloves garlic, minced<br />
5 tsp curry powder<br />
2 tsp ground ginger<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/4 tsp black pepper<br />
2 15 oz cans garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained<br />
2 14/5 oz cans diced tomatoes, undrained<br />
1 cup chicken broth<br />
1 bay leaf <br />
2 Tbsp lime juice<br />
9 oz fresh spinach<br />
rice<br />
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Directions:<br />
<i>If you want to prep this meal to freeze, add all of the ingredients except for the last three (lime juice, spinach and rice) in a gallon size freezer bag and shake to coat the ingredients with seasoning. Freeze for up to six months. Before cooking, let thaw for 12-24 hours. Note: You can also freeze after you cook this meal, but do not add the spinach. </i><br />
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<ul>
<li>Lightly coat a 6 quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or oil. </li>
<li>Add chicken, onion and garlic. </li>
<li>Add curry powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. </li>
<li>Stir in drained beans, undrained tomatoes, broth and bay leaf. </li>
<li>Cover and cook on high 4-5 hours or low 8-10 hours.</li>
<li>Stir lime juice into cooked stew.</li>
<li>Stir in spinach leaves into stew and let stand 2 to 3 minutes to wilt.</li>
<li>Serve with rice (and naan if you have it)</li>
</ul>
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<br />
More favorite crock pot meals:<br />
<a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2011/11/sunday-family-meal-time.html" target="_blank">Kentucky BBQ Chicken</a><br />
<a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/12/crock-pot-chicken-enchilada-soup.html" target="_blank">Enchilada Soup</a> from SkinnyTaste<br />
<a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2012/09/slow-cooker-freezer-meals-make-8-meals.html" target="_blank">Cilantro Lime Chicken</a> from Six Sisters<br />
And a <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2014/04/three-bean-chili/" target="_blank">Three Bean Chili</a> adapted from Smitten Kitchen that I am working to make crock pot and freezer friendly. But you should go ahead and try it anyway, because it is amazing.<br />
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<br />Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-3571557906117804422014-11-11T22:18:00.000-05:002014-11-11T22:18:14.089-05:00The Year of the Firemen<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6OlrmoMborJBtIQpDui689HioZHwgM0SIicglATmphx6A-CqOHGEiyFfFI33ytetScSKPhCC-ZqClaUqzZthJliZjL7ZrSD2oonKamYk8maP19uCJPaIHuNmKwmFWYYF8-7d7jKRHWgL/s1600/IMG_9630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6OlrmoMborJBtIQpDui689HioZHwgM0SIicglATmphx6A-CqOHGEiyFfFI33ytetScSKPhCC-ZqClaUqzZthJliZjL7ZrSD2oonKamYk8maP19uCJPaIHuNmKwmFWYYF8-7d7jKRHWgL/s1600/IMG_9630.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a><i>alternative title: The Year of Few Good Pictures</i></div>
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Like most little boys, Behr and Hudson have been excited about all things fire trucks. It helps that one passes us here in the city about every three minutes. Hudson makes the fire truck noise and points with excitement. Behr exclaims, "Go save people!" <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2012/11/wheres-fire.html" target="_blank">Behr was a fireman two years ago</a> (in this hand-me-down yellow jacket) but hadn't fully grasped the concept. </div>
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When I saw this fireman's coat in Behr's size at Costco, it sealed the deal. You have to love a good Costco impulse buy. It helped that Mark and I had been plotting how to transform our wagon into a masterpiece for the trek down East Capitol Street. A fire engine was the perfect choice! A few days before trick or treating I also snagged these hats from the target dollar spot (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F4G5HS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000F4G5HS&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=HHVZ36MDAKQ2DYYZ" target="_blank">similar</a>) which are a hard plastic, way better than the flimsy ones you can get for free. </div>
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The boys might not have performed for the camera, but we passed some real fireman who honked and waved at us. Definitely one of the their highlights. </div>
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Behr accompanied Hudson to most of the houses, teaching him how it works. Behr was eager to say thank you, even thanking people before getting any candy from them. Hudson was miffed that not every house offered candy. He would shake on the locked gates we passed, not wanting to miss a single opportunity. Hudson also cracked us up by trying to go back to the same houses again and again. Behr said he was smart, wanting to get the whole bowl of candy instead of just a few pieces.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post. </span></i></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-63946694382807416742014-11-03T07:55:00.002-05:002014-12-03T17:06:31.453-05:00November Goals with Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We ran some errands this past weekend, the day after Halloween. Stepping into the stores felt more like the week after black Friday. Shelves had been stocked with Christmas and already ransacked, lines were longer than I've seen in months, and the buzz of anxious chaos left me shaken. Looking forward through the month of November, I want to be conscious to keep our family pace relaxed.<br />
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Recap of October Goals:<br />
<ul>
<li>I've been working on a writing project - are you sick of hearing me talk about this yet?</li>
<li>Trim back the excess - this is going well, and I am excited to share about it!</li>
<li>Write every day - October was like a punch in the gut. I definitely didn't write, but I missed it and I am ready to be back here more regularly.</li>
<li>Start my mornings in worship - I got back into consistently reading my Bible, I hope to add exercise back as we begin November.</li>
<li>Better breakfast - we are still working on this one. </li>
</ul>
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November Goals:<br />
<ul>
<li>Maybe the goal to write isn't going very well...</li>
<li>Get outside. This used to be a goal of mine during the warmer months. Now that the weather is getting cold, its even more important to get outside early and often.</li>
<li>Order and address our Christmas cards before Thanksgiving. No more waiting too long and feeling frantic.</li>
<li>Leisure reading - two books in November. I haven't decided which books they will be, but I want to spend enough time reading to get through two books this month. Its important to set an example of reading for my boys.</li>
<li>Family reading time. Similar to the personal reading goal, I want to finish a few chapter books with the boys. We are currently reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064400565/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064400565&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=4ALNDQI6TQQRFY3P" target="_blank">Stuart Little</a> and we get on so many tangents of laughter and imagination we just don't get very far in the book. Reading daily would help us both finish books and continue to have our hilarious conversations.</li>
</ul>
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Linking up with Hayley of <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/" target="_blank">The Tiny Twig</a> for <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/category/goals/" target="_blank">Goals with Grace</a>. </div>
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I'd love to hear what your November goals are looking like </div>
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and how you balance the crazy of the season. </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post. </span></i></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-4037127464681925642014-10-30T12:21:00.000-04:002014-10-30T12:21:00.083-04:00All Things Pumpkin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Adding pumpkin puree or apple sauce to my year round baking adds both sweetness and health benefits. Pumpkin is packed with iron, vitamins A and E, and fiber. Apples are packed with vitamin C and fiber. Either choice is a win. Every fall from my CSA bounty, I make and freeze bags of pumpkin puree (see guide below) and apple sauce to use all year round.<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/p/tIHaFNkkPg/?modal=true" target="_blank">Pumpkin Pancakes</a><br />
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My pumpkin pancakes were a last minute fluke and definitely aren't from scratch. I take the basic Bisquick box recipe and tweak it to make it work with pumpkin puree.<br />
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2 cups Bisquick mix + more for thickening if needed<br />
1 cup milk<br />
2 Tbs coconut oil<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1-2 cups pumpkin puree or apple sauce<br />
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Since the puree or applesauce varies in consistency, I mix everything together and then determine if the batter needs additional bisquick mix. This recipe is very forgiving, which is why the amount of puree is flexible. Since I typically freeze my pumpkin puree in 2 cup batches, I use one batch at a time. But if I have already added some to a soup or different recipe, than the left over puree ends up in pancakes.<br />
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Other pumpkin perfect links:<br />
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+ My <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2010/11/roasting-pumpkins-for-homemade-puree.html" target="_blank">2010 guide to roasting neck pumpkins</a> for year round pumpkin puree.<br />
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+ <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2013/11/what-squash.html" target="_blank">Guide to squash and pumpkins</a>, a handy guide for farmers markets.<br />
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+ CSA Inspired <a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/2012/10/csa-inspired-stuffed-acorn-squash.html" target="_blank">Stuffed Acorn Squash</a><br />
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+ My favorite <a href="http://www.twotwentyone.net/2013/10/pumpkin-chocolate-chip-cookies/" target="_blank">Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie</a> recipe from Two Twenty One.<br />
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+ <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/brown-butter-pumpkin-waffles/" target="_blank">Brown Butter Pumpkin Waffles</a><br />
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I am working on a pumpkin bread and also pumpkin chili. Neither recipe is quite right, but I look forward to sharing when they are. What is your favorite way to incorporate pumpkin?<br />
<br />Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-48498397058614446362014-10-29T11:06:00.003-04:002014-10-29T11:06:57.371-04:00Field Notes: NYC Midtown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In August we took a last minute trip to New York City for the weekend. The air was already getting crisp and leaves were changing. Just a few hours north of DC. I couldn't bring myself to blog about the cooler weather on our trip until the season began to change in DC. I kept waiting for the temperatures to dip, but it has been an unseasonably warm fall in Washington. So here I am, the last week in October writing to you about our August trip on a summer like day in DC. A long overdue post that might never happen if I just don't start writing.<br />
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When planning to take a 3.5 and 1.5 year old to New York, we immediately crossed off some of our own favorites and NYC must see attractions. Too young to appreciate the 911 memorial or statue of liberty and definitely too young for us to fully enjoy a day in Greenwich Village or Soho. We thought about the brooklyn bridge, the high line and the bronx zoo, but decided to save those for trips when the boys were a bit older. After some brainstorming and hotel comparing, we settled on Midtown for a few childhood classics on our list with plenty to explore in the south end of central park. A hotel view over looking central park sealed the deal.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day One:</span><br />
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+ Central Park - paths for Behr to zip along with his scooter and fun parks to check out. We loved Hecksher Playground which still had its water fountains on for summer. <i>Bonus planning tip: Hecksher has bathrooms.</i> We passed a few smaller playgrounds that seemed less crowded, we will definitely check those out next trip.<br />
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+ The Central Park Zoo, which is really perfect for young kids. We arrived just in time for the Delacorte Music Clock turn the hour. We explored the exhibits, <i>some which weren't stroller friendly</i>, and stayed to watch the feeding of the sea lions, and incredible show!<br />
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+ FAO Schwartz, where my own NYC childhood memories came streaming back, especially when we played the giant piano! The boys each picked one small keepsake and opted for Pixar Cars, Lightning McQueen and Doc Hudson. Even still when they play with these they talk about NYC, which makes us excited to plan our next trip!<br />
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+ Rockefeller Plaza and <a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/32882/restaurant/Midtown-West/Little-Italy-Pizzeria-NYC" target="_blank">NYC Pizza</a> - this great recommendation from <a href="https://twitter.com/OrdinaryTales" target="_blank">Colleen</a> and the perfect dinner after a day of walking, walking, and more walking!<br />
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Additional unplanned highlights included: street food, street performers, <a href="http://instagram.com/p/rxFJi-EkCq/?modal=true" target="_blank">a friendly chat with a police officer</a>, rock climbing in central park, <a href="http://www.centralparknyc.org/things-to-see-and-do/attractions/balto.html" target="_blank">stumbling upon Balto</a>, and passing <a href="http://instagram.com/p/rx7ATJEkJ2/?modal=true" target="_blank">a gorgeous wedding</a> outside Park Plaza and more horses than my nose could handle, but the boys sure loved them.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day Two:</span><br />
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+ <a href="http://www.redeemer.com/" target="_blank">Redeemer Presbyterian</a> - we visited the East Side service at Hunter College, but quickly shuffled down to the basement to listen to the audio only to realize that Tim Keller was preaching, on patience of course!<br />
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+ Central Park - we spend Sunday morning strolling Central Park, the gazebo, the mall and literary walk, and concluded our adventure with street hot dogs and soft pretzels.<br />
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If you are planning a trip with kids under 5 to NYC, I highly recommend Midtown. For more tips about all things New York, check out <a href="http://bulldogs-and-babies.blogspot.com/search/label/New%20York" target="_blank">Emily's blog</a>.<br />
<br />Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-56025142825406556282014-10-24T12:15:00.001-04:002014-10-24T12:15:33.104-04:00Stitch Fix #14<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBbMfNWTrNOrKD_LQB5dOnFRt2AZME-8ZceL4eNwEpHeBUjZslluBHAQ_lQnlnY8Oz-jtctf3oIIbArcOfFbcvX22PACuVYGPonjCX60Qlsos8pPOhQEvV3ZLrIcoA7r09pe3U5VK6eWcS/s1600/IMG_9574.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/AVvXsEiBbMfNWTrNOrKD_LQB5dOnFRt2AZME-8ZceL4eNwEpHeBUjZslluBHAQ_lQnlnY8Oz-jtctf3oIIbArcOfFbcvX22PACuVYGPonjCX60Qlsos8pPOhQEvV3ZLrIcoA7r09pe3U5VK6eWcS/s1600/IMG_9574.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a>
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I've said it before but I am seriously not a fashion blogger. Getting dressed only happens on a good day, and when I do, I often rotate through the same cozy items. I am currently wearing a pair of jeans for the third day in a row. Did you know that having less spandex (only 2%) is actually amazing sometimes!? I have been on a kick of jeans with stretch but then after the second day, all I can see are my baggy knees. The point here is, comfort and durability are super important to me. <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3028130" target="_blank">My latest fix</a> was absolutely that and I couldn't be more excited to share it with you. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Mavi Gold Jeans</span></div>
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Speaking of comfortable, these jeans (seen in all the pictures) were the first item I put on from my fix. Three hours later, I realized I forgot to take them off. Definitely keepers. They are dark, dark denim, not quite black, but such a good base. I rarely keep pants that come in my fix, but these were the perfect fit and replaced the dark pairs I had last year that are now too big (its been a long journey friends, and my thighs still love each other...)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLjJNOQXjTE6rVvLBcxCbLesI_QmYtlmxGd9_A9eHPXXqUjA90hF3JiObTBTQQKYjZqienVUx-dR5rS4pYCkqP3IuSA-Vfz_rc9MszKMnvv6XdW5KjnD5DHAU1Q_VD7HFk293KTp7FcmE/s1600/IMG_9576.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/AVvXsEjDLjJNOQXjTE6rVvLBcxCbLesI_QmYtlmxGd9_A9eHPXXqUjA90hF3JiObTBTQQKYjZqienVUx-dR5rS4pYCkqP3IuSA-Vfz_rc9MszKMnvv6XdW5KjnD5DHAU1Q_VD7HFk293KTp7FcmE/s1600/IMG_9576.JPG" height="482" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYoIhyphenhyphenrxDvNd1pKfyO-RTJrQSmsE0BSPNdFneprhcdlAB23L6V9KSfQyvX134EB90ri3ODcd7uvXf3X9FzqxDemEei1mk6aCzGqtsn4A5NGHVrP2ile5YOVJUjUzBmHVFmwrB7fpGm06nD/s1600/IMG_9578.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/AVvXsEiYoIhyphenhyphenrxDvNd1pKfyO-RTJrQSmsE0BSPNdFneprhcdlAB23L6V9KSfQyvX134EB90ri3ODcd7uvXf3X9FzqxDemEei1mk6aCzGqtsn4A5NGHVrP2ile5YOVJUjUzBmHVFmwrB7fpGm06nD/s1600/IMG_9578.JPG" height="474" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjo-ROB8v7prVFeXRizJ-jy9zTJa6YJ6kbsIKC9vX9tcnaYfbc2vN7sFF2dP4ceMMP5da-kcbKjdmGCqVy1eaoVjEj-2MGzJGOqlc83qq8W6xyowlmlTAP9D4zAwknCz1190fYGhWVY9pe/s1600/IMG_9585.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/AVvXsEjjo-ROB8v7prVFeXRizJ-jy9zTJa6YJ6kbsIKC9vX9tcnaYfbc2vN7sFF2dP4ceMMP5da-kcbKjdmGCqVy1eaoVjEj-2MGzJGOqlc83qq8W6xyowlmlTAP9D4zAwknCz1190fYGhWVY9pe/s1600/IMG_9585.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> 2. Mystree Braylee Hooded Utility Jacket</span></div>
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This is the jacket I wanted to love. I opened the box and immediately got excited. But then I didn't love the hood, and I wanted it to be a vest, and the sleeves were long. Instead I asked about 20 people in my life and now I am asking you. Is it too short? Too boxy? It looks great here, but am I ever going to want to put it on instead of my field coat?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHGbOLe5ZUPQ2ULO7uRt7hbyNz7EYdojKPhylqQ6TS7jbEBKG50WZvIOr7WBpL-QCtyd_5jBZjEwcO_eeiSjqWmYbEhAhgDnlgYrA3NkTVYVlg5vfLj5Zei6o2RYyuH2GUAM556DbnFbYl/s1600/IMG_9580.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/AVvXsEgHGbOLe5ZUPQ2ULO7uRt7hbyNz7EYdojKPhylqQ6TS7jbEBKG50WZvIOr7WBpL-QCtyd_5jBZjEwcO_eeiSjqWmYbEhAhgDnlgYrA3NkTVYVlg5vfLj5Zei6o2RYyuH2GUAM556DbnFbYl/s1600/IMG_9580.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Loveappella Chelsea Mixed Stripe Knit Shirt</span><br />
This shirt is so comfortable. But I am not sure I can handle the mixed stripe. It somehow seems a bit too athletic or edgy for me. What do you think? Also, the side photos were not flattering, so you don't quite get the full effect of the different stripes. But trust me. And seriously, tell me what you think.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtKwYz7UpA7PJauxvJGjFp3hYjw3F0hJei79ra3BRLVhsmn8e3GMzMd3QavSdBqHmKEoToDV4xIm4BIjHJ3UP_TJMNvVgXRPNGqU456asmWvXiUg-abSbPJ7y3u7wywbZLBMOjd4Gi80S/s1600/IMG_9586.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/AVvXsEiYtKwYz7UpA7PJauxvJGjFp3hYjw3F0hJei79ra3BRLVhsmn8e3GMzMd3QavSdBqHmKEoToDV4xIm4BIjHJ3UP_TJMNvVgXRPNGqU456asmWvXiUg-abSbPJ7y3u7wywbZLBMOjd4Gi80S/s1600/IMG_9586.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpCFG7x6Fwdkjevl4qrjBbkppIPKDK7ZqqDEGXq4TTAHOJcgYHS-e_0o7gN1NVCsOgMFv26dEMNb7DHNgTmu_1g4ZSWvbQzLD4wqieqLafabkUzTUM4_SmgGGbWeuD7zMdT5f66yzrlrO/s1600/IMG_9590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpCFG7x6Fwdkjevl4qrjBbkppIPKDK7ZqqDEGXq4TTAHOJcgYHS-e_0o7gN1NVCsOgMFv26dEMNb7DHNgTmu_1g4ZSWvbQzLD4wqieqLafabkUzTUM4_SmgGGbWeuD7zMdT5f66yzrlrO/s1600/IMG_9590.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Loveappella Evie Draw String Funnel Neck Sweatshirt</span><br />
This is like heaven in a blanket that you can wear and be seen in public. Seriously. It is lightweight, so I wont have to frantically take it off in a hot flash moment. I've joked with my mom that having kids preps you for menopause, the chasing after them and lugging things makes me hot and sweaty all too often. But back to this sweatshirt/sweater...it is knit so I would call it a sweater. I love this, don't you?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8ssmuYYDvqplG6IAD20W0vlbJd-rcc-oaUm0aG1LqDGWfJKC40oZCrKcgSKGq1egi7ugQFSnjy8PY5Pvdc1ICpSHavd9hYF1hM26hKfgJqfdtMskm_vNiinOi7bTdwkiezqIOVx3INiO/s1600/IMG_9616.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/AVvXsEhP8ssmuYYDvqplG6IAD20W0vlbJd-rcc-oaUm0aG1LqDGWfJKC40oZCrKcgSKGq1egi7ugQFSnjy8PY5Pvdc1ICpSHavd9hYF1hM26hKfgJqfdtMskm_vNiinOi7bTdwkiezqIOVx3INiO/s1600/IMG_9616.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">5. Market and Spruce Margerie Stripe & Dot Open Cardigan</span><br />
This was a surprise for me. I have a few open cardigans already, but it wasn't until I saw this one new that I realized my old ones are starting to look a bit shabby. A few to many wash cycles over three years and they are faded and pilling. I haven't added an open cardi to my daily rotation since Behr was born, so this came at the perfect time. And it is reversible. I think it is a winner. How about you?<br />
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You feedback on my <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3028130" target="_blank">stitch fix posts</a> is so helpful to me. I really appreciate your comments and suggestions. Especially how you would wear these items. I have a hard time deviating from jeans and flats, jeans and flats. Give me all your thoughts!<br />
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And I would love to know, have you tried <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3028130" target="_blank">Stitch Fix</a>? Or considered it? Did you know they offer gift cards? Perfect for Christmas...hint, hint, just in case my sisters are reading.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post. </span></i></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-64456226859268406892014-10-09T15:29:00.000-04:002014-10-09T15:29:04.638-04:00Hudson Eighteen Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hudson, this past month you have been talking and climbing and climbing and talking. You have done a million things, but these two activities are highest on your list. You have scaled just about every conceivable surface in our home, including the wall AC unit to get up to and stand on our window ledge. You have jumped off the kitchen table and not learned your lesson. You fall off the back of the couch regularly. You keep me constantly on guard and break all the rules.<br />
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You eat crayons.<br />
You chew on your bed rail,<i> still!</i><br />
You refuse sleep, adamantly pointing out of the bedroom the second we walk anywhere near it.<br />
You scream and persevere in the fight against sleep.<br />
If you get the slightest impression I might be cooking, you dump your plate basket and grab one to furiously bang on the counter until I feed you.<br />
When I turn my back, you start the dishwasher, turn off the AC unit, or stash the TV remote in a super secret hiding place. <br />
This morning you sent your first email, fortunately just to dad.<br />
If there are buttons, you will find them and push them.<br />
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You have also been talking quite a bit more, but not necessarily more words. You say: HOT, hhhhhhot <i>(with a raspy/throaty emphasis on the H), </i>Up, and Hi, hi, hi <i>(that one rarely comes alone).</i><br />
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Thankfully you now sign "more" and "all done" when it is appropriate. For a few weeks, our communication was touch and go, but we have developed a nice rhythm with hopes of your vocabulary growing. Behr thinks you say even more words that your Dad and I simply don't hear or can't seem to translate into common english.<br />
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You have also resumed snuggling. When I pick you up, you either touch my face with your hands or rest your head on my shoulder. Thank you for reminded me that I am in fact your momma and you do still need me. Your independent streak often leaves me doubting. <br />
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Incase you or anyone else is wondering, Hudson, you are the primary reason for my blog being neglected. Reread this post if you have any outstanding questions.Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-35413390337769329642014-10-06T23:53:00.000-04:002014-10-06T23:53:01.973-04:00October Goals with Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The irony of this goals link up is that it has taught me way more about goals I am not setting, extending grace to myself and those around me, and where my weaknesses lurk than it has about achieving big lofty goals. When Hayley called this <b>Goals </b><i><b>with Grace</b>,</i> she wasn't kidding.<br />
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September Goals:<br />
<ul>
<li><i>Spend my time while Behr is at school at the house & pick my activities wisely -- I definitely worked better at this, but thanks to things popping up, September wasn't as productive as I had hoped. </i></li>
<li><i>Continue my early morning routine -- this totally fell apart, but I hope October will be another fresh start.</i></li>
<li><i>Family reading or exercise time during the 3-5 o'clock hours -- this is a positive work in progress. Still open to tips if anyone has any. </i></li>
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October Goals:<br />
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<ul>
<li>I've been working on a writing project, at Influence I sat down with <a href="http://www.anniewiltse.com/" target="_blank">a mentor</a> and we set hard deadlines. I am excited about the accountability and know it is a key component in me being able to reach me goals.</li>
<li>Trim back the excess. We have excess in our lives that adds a component of anxiety to my day. Excess clutter, excess commitments, excess decisions. I am not entirely sure what this looks like, so it's a tricky goal to write. Most days I feel a few steps behind, I think because this excess is dragging my time. I have a tendency towards clutter, highly organized clutter, but I am slowly learning unnecessary clutter. October will be spend streamlining, cutting some of the negative excess from our lives.</li>
<li>Write every day. I decided not to do the 31 day writing challenge because I want to focus on my project from Spring. But that doesn't mean I can't still be encouraged. I want to write every day just for the sake of writing, honing the craft and improving my skill.</li>
<li>Start my mornings in worship. I fell out of rhythm with a crazy September. October is about resetting my mornings I include prayer, reading my bible, and some exercise.</li>
<li>Better breakfast. With a bit of planning, the boys and I are all happier about breakfast. Cold cereal and cinnamon toast have been our go to for a few weeks. I am ready to reincorporate baked oatmeal and other hearty breakfast options. What are your favorite healthy/winter breakfast meals?</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
I am linking up with <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/" target="_blank">The Tiny Twig</a><br />
for Goals with Grace</div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-50185487962295087882014-09-30T17:14:00.000-04:002014-09-30T17:14:23.294-04:002014 #InfluenceConf: Showing Up & Shedding Fear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Processing something like the amazing weekend that just happened is beyond me. I came home rejuvenated and emotionally exhausted in the best way.<br />
<br />
While I am not sure I can do a recap justice, I can process what went on this weekend.<br />
<br />
People Showed Up<br />
<br />
Not just at registration (of course you showed up then) but before. People showed up with arms open to give hugs for the first time ever in person. People showed up to help. They stuffed swag bags, filled balloons, cut and tied tassels, potted succulents. Oh the succulents! A huge THANK YOU! to everyone who showed up to help, and stayed up late on Saturday helping even more.<br />
<br />
People showed up ready to listen and they taught me how to listen better. One of my goals for this conference was meaningful conversations. I think it was my best year yet.<br />
<br />
Jesus Showed Up<br />
<br />
Speakers showed up and poured out their hearts. They pointed us to Jesus at every turn -- not to their own blogs or books or success, but how walking with Christ has radically changed them. Here are some of the words that are still bouncing around my head.<br />
<br />
<i>-- When you wake up in the morning you are already loved. -- <a href="http://www.themochaclub.org/artist/char-and-wertz/" target="_blank">Char, Mocha Club</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>-- Striving is crap. You are already accepted in Christ -- <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/" target="_blank">Hayley, The Tiny Twig</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>-- We need to preach the Gospel to ourselves often enough to remember it. -- <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/" target="_blank">Hayley, The Tiny Twig</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>-- Our God is a God of exchanges. -- <a href="https://holyyoga.net/" target="_blank">Brooke Boon, Holy Yoga</a>, reminded to me by <a href="http://www.kincaidparade.com/" target="_blank">Rach Kincaid</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>-- My identity does not hinge on anything I've done or haven't done." -- <a href="http://jamieivey.com/" target="_blank">Jamie Ivey</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>-- Our idea of enough comes from looking around. The "enough" is a lie. These are fictitious voices. People are too into themselves to be judging you. Get over it. -- <a href="http://www.noondaycollection.com/2013-our-team/jessica-honegger" target="_blank">Jessica Honeggar, Noonday</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>-- God doesn't want a better life from you, he wants a better life FOR you. -- <a href="http://www.naptimediaries.com/blog/" target="_blank">Jess Connolly</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>-- We fall into the lie, if we just get it right we will be free -- <a href="http://www.naptimediaries.com/blog/" target="_blank">Ellen, Sweetwater</a></i><br />
<br />
<br />
Fear was Shed<br />
<br />
I overcame some serious fear. I dealt with issues that had been cropping up. Lara Casey, Jamie Ivie, Ellen Parker -- power house women got real, they got quiet, and they spoke truth. I cried a lot. I prayed more. And I overcame a few fears and insecurities in just a few short days. The chance to stand up to them rocked me in the best way. (emotionally exhausted)<br />
<br />
Hugs were Shared<br />
<br />
When emotions get raw, when fears are exposed, there are tears. At least for me. I cried so much I could no longer wear my contacts. The crying was cathartic, but oh the hugs! I hugged every one you see above and so many more. I am so thankful for the hugs. And this is coming from a serious non-hugger. But it was good.<br />
<br />
I am over calling this a blogger conference.<br />
<br />
You do not need to blog to come to the Influence Conference. It is about loving women, encouraging women, and helping them share the Gospel through their every day influence. Read the recaps by other conference attendees below.<br />
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-55893249298207554042014-09-15T17:22:00.003-04:002014-09-15T17:22:28.340-04:00A New Bio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Every year our family photos are taken at the beach by the incredibly talented <a href="http://www.pambellphotography.com/" target="_blank">Pam & Jensen Bell</a>.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
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It seems our bios change as life evolves. One would think it would be the same, but then we move, have more kids, start drinking coffee, quit drinking coffee, consider starting on coffee again (its been that sort of year...). As relationships ripen, knowledge grows, and interests change, so naturally do our biographies. But what about those autobiographies we read? What would their lives look like at snapshot intervals? Mild mannered, extremely spirited, a quiet listener, can over the course of a lifetime someone hold all of these traits, given different stages and circumstances?<br />
<br />
This is the thought process over the summer as I have slowly worked on a new bio. I am not sure I can ever call it finished, but for now lets just say published, it seems both permanent while being not yet final, there are always revised editions, no?<br />
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<div style="border: medium none;">
<a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/p/connect.html" target="_blank">My imperfect bio</a>:<br />
<br />
I'm Shannon, married to best friend Mark. Together we are navigating the crazy world of parenting two boys. We call ourselves accidental urbanites, never having imagined we would be raising our family in the heart of a city. Our sons, Behr and Hudson love to be loud and on the go, just like most of Washington, DC. They fit right in. </div>
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I have a list of ever evolving passions, most recently creating a healthier home, eating local, reducing the use of chemicals, and fostering positive conversations. I aim to wake up first, do some yoga and read my bible. This is a goal, not yet a committed practice. This past year I quit coffee, started and ebook (coming soon!), learned to bake and began painting again. I never quite know how to foster my creative outlets, but I love to help others foster theirs.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">This little blog began after a big move away from friends and family. It started as a place to journal, keep up to date with friends afar, and store my inspirations (before pinterest!). Today, this blog is all that and more, becoming an incredible community of friends across the world. </span></i>I blog about the bits of life that inspire me and I hope inspire you as well.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, I hope you'll say hello and stay a while!<br />
<br />
Also, I really hope to get a chance to chat with those of you who are going to <a href="http://www.theinfluenceconference.com/">The Influence Conference</a>. I am very excited to hear Ellen speak and wouldn't ever consider leaving the house without multiple pens in various colors. I process by writing things down. At the moment, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005LU2QAQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005LU2QAQ&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=ZDZXOJY3MU7TAR4O" target="_blank">these are my favorite</a>.<br />
<br />
If you are going to Influence this year, will you <a href="http://theinfluencenetwork.com/2014/09/influence-conference-meet-greet/" target="_blank">link up with us?</a><br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post. </span></i></div>
Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-70170382420988195352014-09-09T23:34:00.001-04:002014-09-09T23:34:24.675-04:00Hudson Seventeen Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hudson, it seems like every month I say you have developed your own little personality. And again, as I sat down to write this post, that is what is on the top of my mind. Perhaps because you have so much personality? You are determined, smart, strong willed, and able. You have spend the past month mastering so many new skills. You have climb to new heights. Literally. You have climbed just about every piece of furniture in our house, especially if climbing higher helped you reach something. When you summit the coffee table, kitchen table, or your newest feat, our bed, you do what we have begun to affectionally call the "sumo stomp." You get so excited, your fat little feet move so fast.<br />
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You are not deterred by limits. You do not want to be held back. When we tell you no, you frown, grimace, or fake cry, but you almost always spit. You spit again and again, like an old greek lady who is dissatisfied with her cooking. You wiggle out of most holds and hand holding is your least favorite activity. Conversely, you love button pushing, all varieties. One day you escaped down the hall and started all of the intern dishwashers! You are also a pro at removing batteries. If there are batteries to be found, you are the man for the job.<br />
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You make us laugh. Oh boy, do you make us laugh. Your smarts come into play here. You catch us off guard, or make something ordinary far more exciting, and we all burst out with joy. I hope and pray you keep this gift and share it often throughout your life. <i>I am not supposed to tell you this, but your spitting is what makes us laugh the most...</i><br />
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When we are out and about, you are so happy. You say "hi, hi, hi!" every time we pass someone and sometimes even to dogs. You points to animals and say "ooh, ooh," making a surprise face.<br />
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For months now, you have been throwing things away. When something goes missing, we panic that perhaps it fell victim to you and the trash. We even thought you tossed Dad's watch for a few days. Recently you have showed us that you know when something is supposed to be thrown away and when you get it right, we whoop and holler and cheer! We love watching you learn. Behr loves teaching you new things. He also likes getting credit for your new achievements.<br />
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You want to do almost everything Behr does. From first thing in the morning when you join him as he pushes dad out for work. All the way through the day until the very end when you climb into his bed instead of your own. As long as he isn't hugging you (which makes you so mad!) you want to be right along side him.<br />
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During bath time you sneakily get a cup and try to drink the bath water. Every single time. You pretend you are going to pour the water out and then gulp, down it goes! And once we finally get you to stop drinking the water, you dump it straight out of the tub. Some nights we use five or six towels just because of you.<br />
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You are in the process of cutting 2-4 more teeth, its hard to tell exactly where they are coming in. We think because of this, you have a new found fascination with your toothbrush. You carry it around most of the day and frequently go into the bathroom, climb up on the stool, and wait for more water.<br />
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Word are coming slowly to you, but you still babble on all day. Here are your favorite words these days: hi, hot, dog, mama, dada, up, on, and sometimes we think you say Behr. But you still point as your primary means for communication, and you have it down to a science. When you are hungry or thirsty, you dump out the basket of baby dishes and start banging the counter. It reminds me of a prison scene in an old black and white movie, but I always know what you want!<br />
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I am so excited for you to start talking because I can see you processing all these ideas. But for now, we are trying to soak up all of the hilarious things you are doing at this stage. Thank you for being such a joy in our family. We are so blessed to have you in our lives.<br />
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<br />Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-45371563136051790412014-09-04T12:30:00.001-04:002014-09-04T12:30:16.776-04:00September Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We were able to savor August. It was a jam packed month, but we spent time well. My goals for the month were focused around wanting to celebrate each day:<br />
<ul>
<li>Re-start my morning workout/prayer time - success!</li>
<li>Limit of 3 to-do list items before we head out for the day's adventure, so we don't get stuck inside working - mostly success!</li>
<li>Easy dinners, mostly from our farm share - hooray!</li>
<li>No TV on the weekends, for us or the kids - maybe we need to change this one up a bit...</li>
</ul>
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I am not naturally a lover of fresh starts. Sitting with a friend last night she rattled off all the different points of the year you can turn into a new beginning. Me? I am constantly holding onto the season that is slipping away.<br />
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But I do love routine. And with children I find our routines need to change frequently, so I guess for that I am grateful for September.<br />
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Here are the goals that I am hoping to cling to as this new season of Behr in school three mornings a week starts out.<br />
<ul>
<li>Spend my time while Behr is at school at the house & pick my activities wisely -- prepping for dinner, interns, blogging, but spend it wisely taking care of things that need most of my attention. Hudson is at an age where he mostly plays happily beside me. Behr however wants to dive in and help or talk. I want to be smart about the tasks I accomplish while he is at school (aka me writing this post now, even thought it is later than I wanted) so that when he is home, I can be more engaged with him. Running errands is easier with one kid, but errands allow me to still engage with Behr. Computer time, not so much. Let's see how it goes. I hope Hudson cooperates with this plan. </li>
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<li>Continue my early morning routine -- I have been successfully waking up first, reading my bible, sometimes doing yoga, and showering before the boys wake. This is assisted by planning breakfast, packing lunches & laying out clothes the night before. I am a happier mom when I get these extra minutes to wake up and be energized before the whirlwind begins.</li>
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<li>Family reading or exercise time -- come three o'clock in the afternoon, Hudson is usually fighting a nap and Behr could use some time to reboot. My tendency is to cram to-do list items in at this hour. Instead if we head to the park or pick up some books, I think we will all be better served. It is simply a matter of changing my mentality at this time of day. Any tips on how this works for you and your family?</li>
</ul>
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I am linking up with <a href="http://www.thetinytwig.com/" target="_blank">The Tiny Twig</a><br />
for Goals with Grace<br />
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Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-1756525405165100002014-09-01T21:08:00.000-04:002014-09-01T21:08:07.873-04:00mmmGoodies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHcdDmE9TVXxJApLxDKw5R9xF-pXVRSy6HrTydNh1wLTG2ucU4WL7D5qiptr2RQaZ8JjBoZ5pCb7eEl4cO5FSnROYYISqmaMKZDc7ETQEsDHtrbfo2VvcCxj9YE95ig68E1QL64pt7Ugjo/s1600/2014-06-07-ML+And+George+B-Day+Party-Shannon+Blog.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/AVvXsEjHcdDmE9TVXxJApLxDKw5R9xF-pXVRSy6HrTydNh1wLTG2ucU4WL7D5qiptr2RQaZ8JjBoZ5pCb7eEl4cO5FSnROYYISqmaMKZDc7ETQEsDHtrbfo2VvcCxj9YE95ig68E1QL64pt7Ugjo/s1600/2014-06-07-ML+And+George+B-Day+Party-Shannon+Blog.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div>
Today I am super excited to share a post that has been in the works for months, but on my mind for even longer. When I was pregnant with Hudson, I first met Brandon on my lunch break when he parked his frozen custard truck outside. I didn't eat Goodies frozen custard until I was back at my desk, but I immediately thought, I should blog about this! Fast forward to this summer, we showed up at the birthday party of two sweet little friends and what do you know, it was a street party with <a href="http://www.mmmgoodies.com/">Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats</a> dishing up desert! We talked a ton, and thankfully our friend and photographer Jake snapped a few pictures. Thanks Jake.<br />
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Now that I have reconnected with Brandon, I am thrilled to bring you his story. And for all of you in DC, don't forget to follow <a href="http://www.mmmgoodies.com/">Goodies</a> on social media and learn more about renting the truck for your next birthday party or work event.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkyykcuFMtb6DcXlKkyKxrdfEPqAnbtBJBcnPf62BAcuicrCzcvhrFZh57KutHm3EhdbQvSMlXvIRtMkxKQxQ9YHtoqoiAhrl2FD6kRsmC6PK7j0Qw-eZHJTW7BrWupyvr3ZoNfkYCDg8/s1600/IMG_4055.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/AVvXsEgxkyykcuFMtb6DcXlKkyKxrdfEPqAnbtBJBcnPf62BAcuicrCzcvhrFZh57KutHm3EhdbQvSMlXvIRtMkxKQxQ9YHtoqoiAhrl2FD6kRsmC6PK7j0Qw-eZHJTW7BrWupyvr3ZoNfkYCDg8/s1600/IMG_4055.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a><b>How did you get started with Goodies?</b><br />
I fell in love with frozen custard in 1996 when I moved from California to Wisconsin. Its cliche to say this, but it was love at first sight. I knew I wanted to be in the frozen dessert industry, I just didn't know how. Fast forward fifteen years, I was working in corporate america in New York City for a major hiphop magazine. It was time for a departure and I knew I was done with corporate life. The timing was finally right. <br />
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In 2012 <a href="http://www.mmmgoodies.com/">Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats</a> launched.<br />
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<b>Why frozen custard rather than ice cream or yogurt? What's the difference?</b><br />
Frozen custard has egg yolk. Frozen custard is the creme de la creme of frozen desserts. Its a more legit product, richer, thicker, and creamier. It has minimal air. Air makes the product expand, think of a marshmallow, if you puff it up with air, it gets bigger, but it is still the same amount of product. It has the beautiful texture of soft serve, but the decadence of a premium brand.<br />
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We make our custard fresh on site every single day in small batches.<br />
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<b>Where do you source your ingredients?</b><br />
Our ingredients are primarily sourced from the mid-atlantic, as local as possible. Our dairy farm is based in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our fruit comes from a variety of places, <a href="http://millerfarmsclinton.com/">Miller Farms</a>, the <a href="http://nationalharbor.com/">National Harbor</a> farmers market, and <a href="http://www.easternmarket-dc.org/">Eastern Market</a>. We source our vanilla from a f107 year old vanilla farmer, a family business. It is cold extracted vanilla, the best in the world. Think of a shot of espresso. It is as pure as you can get. Vanilla has over 200 flavor characteristics, because ours is cold pressed, not heated, you get the full complexity of the flavor.<br />
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<b>Speaking of flavors, what are your fan favorites? And how about your personal favorites?
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Day to day, we only make vanilla bean frozen custard, on occasion we make a pumpkin pie or chocolate. But we stick to the perfected base of vanilla bean. We are purists. When we add fresh ingredients, the custard takes on that flavor. We use our ingredients to highlight the vanilla. Instead of masking our base with lots of flavors.<br />
We have 4 signature items on our menu but the base for all of them is our vanilla custard:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Route 66 Vanilla Bean Float - using our root beer on tap</li>
<li>Jukebox Cookies and Cream</li>
<li>Turtle Pecan Boogie Woogie with pecans from our farmer in Georgia</li>
<li>Jitterbug Peanut Butter Shake</li>
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Everything is blended on demand to ensure the freshness.<br />
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<b>I hear you have a special name for your truck, can you tell us more about that? </b><br />
Our truck is named GiGi. The gentleman who found the truck in his Arizona junk yard named the truck GiGi -- we've kept the name to pay homage to his hard work finding this beauty. <br />
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<b>What was the process like restoring GiGi? </b><br />
It's like renovating an old building, you gut it, take it down to the bare bones. But the end goal was always at the forefront of my mind. You know what it wants to look like, so you work the pieces to get there.
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<b>Do you only have one truck? </b><br />
That's the cool thing, I actually have another truck. His name is Rudy, his the little brother of GiGi -- a little patchy but big personality like Rudy from the Crosby Show.<br />
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<b>Tell us more about the trucks. </b><i>(can you tell I am a boy mom here?)</i><br />
GiGi and Rudy are MetroVans made by International Harvester. Production of this round body style ran from 1938-1965. They actually have three body styles: a shorty which is Rudy, the medium size which is GiGi, our truck that is currently traveling curbside, and a large model which we don't have one yet, maybe some day in the future. The large body size is a dualie with two rear wheels.<br />
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<b>Speaking of big personality, you've got quite the sock collection!</b><br />
I love color and design, so you are going to see me in argyle or polkadots -- color communicates a lot about a person, full of life and energetic like my personality and ultimately company. My socks are an extension of me.<br />
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<b>What is the one thing you want everyone in DC to know about Goodies?</b><br />
Without you there is no us. We are a small business with high standards, which means we want to build relationships with each customer. <br />
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<b>Where can we find you?</b><br />
GiGi is curb side -- we tweet her location every day <a href="https://twitter.com/Goodiesdc">@GoodiesDC</a><br />
We have a soda bar in National Harbor open daily from 12-7<br />
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<b>And we met at a birthday party, how can we sign up for that goodness?</b><br />
GiGi is available for catering and special events. Shoot an email to: info@mmmgoodies.com<br />
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<b>Follow Goodies on Social Media:</b></div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/Goodiesdc">twitter</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/mmmgoodies">instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mmmgoodies">facebook</a></div>
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#mmmgoodies<br />
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They are about to launch a kickstarter campaign for Rudy. Be on the lookout via their social media.<br />
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<i>A word about hashtags. If you follow Goodies on social media, before long you will see the hashtag #GodisCEO Brandon uses this hashtag because he firmly believes without praying, he wouldn't be where he is today. At the end of the day, Brandon says his faith and prayer has gotten him to here. Without that part of his life, Goodies wouldn't be the company it has become. Brandon uses this hashtag to give glory to where it needs to be. Everyone has their own background, but we can bring those together to do God's work.</i><br />
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All photos courtesy of <a href="http://dajacobsimages.zenfolio.com/">D.A. Jacobs Images</a>Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-34937497782951012752014-08-29T08:55:00.000-04:002014-08-29T08:55:02.381-04:00Amelia Island 2014 + The Jacksonville ZooBack at the end of July we took our final beach vacation of the summer. I always have a hard time letting vacations come to a close. Change is not always something I accept well, but when I really am enjoying myself it gets even harder. Do you feel that way about the end of a beach trip or family adventure or summer?<br />
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Here I am dragging things out longer than they need to be. But this summer, vacation was sweet. Amidst yet another vacation with sick kids, we still made rich memories. Behr's first kite flying experience, finding seashells, feeding giraffes at the Jacksonville Zoo, one on one time with Hudson learning all about waves, frisbee on the beach, mini golf, catching fish in a net, and eating lots of bananas! We may have set a record for that last one. For the first time in four years, we were able to head down to the beach in the morning and last through the day. Lunch on the beach is one of my favorite memories of my own childhood summers. And we were able to bring that memory to our own kids this year. Rich and sweet.<br />
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Moments after the giraffe licked Behr's finger, a highlight of the trip to the zoo for sure. He talked about wanting to feed the giraffes for well over a year, we can only imagine how long he will be talking about the giraffe that licked him! We love how the Jacksonville Zoo lets you get incredibly close to the animals. The new tiger exhibit is incredible and even a bit intimidating. You get so close!<br />
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Slashing and kicking around on the beach, building "castles" or mounds to stomp on, frisbee at the edge of the water. I love the wide open space of these Florida beaches and that my boys can roam and explore, something they don't get enough of in the city. </div>
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We also love downtown Fernandina. Behr's favorite is the train tracks and I love the historic charm of this post office building, along with countless restaurants and shops to visit. I hope to share more about Fernandina with you soon. </div>
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The first kite flying experience was incredible. Mark and I have wanted to get Behr a kite for a few months, but we wanted to make an experience of it, not simply order online. Behr and Grandpop were able to pick one out in a gift shop downtown, Behr helped assemble it on the beach with Dad and the wind was perfect. He would have stood their flying the kite all day.<br />
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Mark also snuck in some boogie boarding while the boys both blessed us with afternoon naps one day.<br />
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Mark and Hudson are developing such a special bond. Hudson follows Behr's cues in his relationship with Mark, but when Behr isn't around, Hudson is able to get all the attention and he soaks it up. I couldn't help but capture all of Hudson's sweet little interactions with Mark this one afternoon on the beach.<br />
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And a tradition, family dinner at <a href="http://www.ameliaisland.com/area-services/dining/casual/bretts-waterway-cafe/">Brett's Waterway Cafe</a>. A walk downtown always follows.<br />
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Our last day on the beach was full. We lingered and soaked up the sun. Take me back. </div>
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Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1987185331637616134.post-65731548113903601762014-08-20T12:28:00.000-04:002014-08-20T12:28:46.704-04:00Stitch Fix #12<br />
Alright folks, this post is getting real. I have not yet found a great spot in my home to take outfit pictures. Our rooms are smallish and multi-purpose, city living at its finest. Also, this is my first time experimenting with my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FP1BQ1Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FP1BQ1Q&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=ZMAHUX2SVKSDOJFF">camera remote</a> for outfit pictures. But I persevered. I find that seeing how other people wear items from their <a href="http://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3028130">stitch fix</a> is incredibly helpful to me and also helped me decide to try the company in the first place, so I wanted to offer this option to you as well. Plus, I need your help deciding what to keep. So here we go...<a href="http://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3028130">Stitch Fix #12</a> Give me your feedback.<br />
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These are the 5 pieces that came in my <a href="http://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3028130">stitch fix</a> this month. This was my first stitch fix after completing my "<a href="http://www.thescribblepadblog.com/search/label/Contentment%20Challenge">contentment challenge</a>" which made it even more exciting, even if sometimes I am making a funny face in the pictures. <i>A few things to note about stitch fix. My goal is to find 1-2 items per month to spruce up my wardrobe. Rarely do I even consider the whole box. With that mindset, this becomes a realistic shopping outlet for me. I try to vie stitch fix as the chance to get outside my comfort zone, so I can add a few pieces in my closet that aren't on everyone else I pass in DC. </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Sonam Cross Front Knit Top by Three Dots</span><br />
-- I was skeptical of this top as soon as I saw it. Cross front and elastic waistlines are not a friend of the postpartum body (can I still claim that 16 months out?) Or really, they aren't great for women who are in their child bearing years, eager people jump to conclusions about any resemblance of a bump. But when I tried this on, it was such a flattering neckline, and for my shoulders, arms, it became an immediate contender. What do you think? Does the positive neckline outweigh the not so great waistline? Or is it a pass?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJ3aR8W6Z9hDWN9ACj3G0ibiFitVajpQesl9EON269o3nLSQvC69wyudhjVBhEkhHMdv0kmtvR7EuhbMRSU2f1mvlLxDxw7yPZwJDW8AlraELKP99Xk2wftWeazpiERLDhreQtM2cWYEZ/s1600/August+20142.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/AVvXsEgCJ3aR8W6Z9hDWN9ACj3G0ibiFitVajpQesl9EON269o3nLSQvC69wyudhjVBhEkhHMdv0kmtvR7EuhbMRSU2f1mvlLxDxw7yPZwJDW8AlraELKP99Xk2wftWeazpiERLDhreQtM2cWYEZ/s1600/August+20142.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Priya Graphic Chevron Print Top by Pomelo</span><br />
-- This was a winner from the start. I loved it out of the box, I asked for something like this in my feedback to my stylist, and I love that it will take me throughout the year since it is easy to layer. Not to mention I love everything blue (and Behr's favorite colors are blue and orange). I love this top so much, I didn't even bother to get good pictures in it since I knew it was a keeper.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT4bN3HjBFIyJEbJI97tCy_XXcd7xQWPUVKVMm9qEY1G1j4RR2kzD_QgKW-yZ8oL9IT5znrnDVEgnyIZwSN_o6PBLLpDxCbUiQ-L2eG06OElm0cDmuUFI166kaCknMjhosM8tC2hsfrwNi/s1600/August+20141.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/AVvXsEjT4bN3HjBFIyJEbJI97tCy_XXcd7xQWPUVKVMm9qEY1G1j4RR2kzD_QgKW-yZ8oL9IT5znrnDVEgnyIZwSN_o6PBLLpDxCbUiQ-L2eG06OElm0cDmuUFI166kaCknMjhosM8tC2hsfrwNi/s1600/August+20141.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Cliff Abstract PRint Roll-Tab Henley by Tart</span><br />
-- I love Tart, but this shirt wasn't doing it for me. My first thought when putting it on was, "this would be great for when I volunteer at Behr's school!" But then I realized, I have plenty of shirts that fit in that category. What I am really looking for are items I feel fantastic in for date nights, dinner with friends, wearing on days I have to stop by the office. I am not sure this top fits the bill. What do you think?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXv8o_ak3Cp0tdB453CUuwxZvrH2kuE_Gd7-IdfvSO6gRWUCj2UVCAC1fNxUqpJ7F6-pw5vc8X5ctTr2YUdQO7yMsupDsmHthSJH_Cc357SXzd0vAV_gu8jiJm-eKYCL7ldV4M5InuJMZ/s1600/August+20143.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/AVvXsEhyXv8o_ak3Cp0tdB453CUuwxZvrH2kuE_Gd7-IdfvSO6gRWUCj2UVCAC1fNxUqpJ7F6-pw5vc8X5ctTr2YUdQO7yMsupDsmHthSJH_Cc357SXzd0vAV_gu8jiJm-eKYCL7ldV4M5InuJMZ/s1600/August+20143.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Lila Chevron Panel Knit Tank by Loveappella</span><br />
-- This was the surprise of the box. I was thrown off by the shape of this top, but the fabric was great, the colors work well for me (blue, of course) and the shape was more flattering than I had guessed. But the back keeps throwing me off. I'm not sure I like how the chevron panel widens in the back. Yay or nay?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNptootz84dnZ2_ysAG2QituxNQ24fpdX0C2dpD8H3PgEFerx4huPIATVAk1iNylwGn6ixB2wKj5Eo5-TRCwVDXiesjQtxlZsD98sTjLVQdKXcHjBbhM30FntUtbT6TjShbUW4ZLdg1T2/s1600/August+20144.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/AVvXsEiGNptootz84dnZ2_ysAG2QituxNQ24fpdX0C2dpD8H3PgEFerx4huPIATVAk1iNylwGn6ixB2wKj5Eo5-TRCwVDXiesjQtxlZsD98sTjLVQdKXcHjBbhM30FntUtbT6TjShbUW4ZLdg1T2/s1600/August+20144.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. Daniela Maxi Skirt by Tart</span><br />
-- I love this maxi skirt. I love the tulip shape in the front, the front slit makes it easy to move in. But, I have two maxi skirts that I never wear. I feel to short for this trend. Also, I never know how to style a maxi skirt, which might be why I never wear mine... Give me your thoughts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfE3sSgYk4bitqkTzH8af-bxTl24MFRrwHMRAf9VEXiKcVZZbkA4RXSzmjeaeeiQYsOumF3n2PG9eYxty4E17txUbWNlrhUiB8B-PnNju_rdGsdrqT96zEdcAOB-kKclaE2AmWUYt0zqf/s1600/August+2014.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/AVvXsEhAfE3sSgYk4bitqkTzH8af-bxTl24MFRrwHMRAf9VEXiKcVZZbkA4RXSzmjeaeeiQYsOumF3n2PG9eYxty4E17txUbWNlrhUiB8B-PnNju_rdGsdrqT96zEdcAOB-kKclaE2AmWUYt0zqf/s1600/August+2014.jpg" height="162" width="640" /></a></div>
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Okay, that is it, my 5 items. Which are your favorites? And do you have any other questions about <a href="http://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3028130">stitch fix</a>? I would love to hear what you have to say. Feel free to also give me all your tips on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FP1BQ1Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00FP1BQ1Q&linkCode=as2&tag=thes088b-20&linkId=ZMAHUX2SVKSDOJFF">camera remotes</a> and taking outfit pictures. Clearly I need some improvement here.<br />
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Shannon :: The Scribble Padhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07377831013971667963noreply@blogger.com6