tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224813222024-03-07T14:07:17.226-05:00Life with Coco and Gigi... and Jack-Jack too!Life as a Mom, A Homesteader, A Blogger and A Wife. Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.comBlogger2688125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-19191507427599439262017-11-22T15:30:00.002-05:002017-11-22T15:31:10.246-05:00Gaming with your kids?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMC_L_NCbbmjxv7gHvpAcmDLNs7dYmg8YP0fOvUIVuvkUbttOIeaRIvW90b3Ku9w4bAh__6YpzGleabTapi4Rhxtr9h-VIbqO0VdJNWhe_t2xYCo315Xhb3qY4B1q_4f1-DCRBg/s1600/2017-10-03+18.38.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMC_L_NCbbmjxv7gHvpAcmDLNs7dYmg8YP0fOvUIVuvkUbttOIeaRIvW90b3Ku9w4bAh__6YpzGleabTapi4Rhxtr9h-VIbqO0VdJNWhe_t2xYCo315Xhb3qY4B1q_4f1-DCRBg/s320/2017-10-03+18.38.27.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As my kids are getting older their interests have changed pretty dramatically. The girls have given up on their childhood toys and are moving on to hanging with friends and doing big kid things. The boy spends more time asking to play video games than playing with action figures. While it truly makes me sad that they are growing up, there are some perks. Here's something you might not know about me - not only do I like to play video games, but I am good at them. So when Jack asks to play a video game I get to "take a break from work" and play with him. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of my recent clients, <a href="https://mybuyingguide.com/best-projector-for-gaming/" target="_blank">my buying guide</a>, has opened my eyes to gaming projectors. I consider myself somewhat tech savvy but things seem to be advancing faster than I can keep up with. I knew about projectors for watching movies, but now you can play your favorite game on the big screen. Here's more:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFysFjlXKKvI-XVDQ9AJipe8Xc_oOXp7Jz9NkST9qspFid-1Q69aIjg34Aqqbrq3B79jPuzRZln-fU16Ak_hQAmWMvQRDOB04XiMk7Z-NVwc5A5DGM25SEzFeYiVhRR0ULIX9UA/s1600/Screenshot+2017-11-22+15.27.25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="841" data-original-width="1600" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFysFjlXKKvI-XVDQ9AJipe8Xc_oOXp7Jz9NkST9qspFid-1Q69aIjg34Aqqbrq3B79jPuzRZln-fU16Ak_hQAmWMvQRDOB04XiMk7Z-NVwc5A5DGM25SEzFeYiVhRR0ULIX9UA/s640/Screenshot+2017-11-22+15.27.25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://mybuyingguide.com/best-projector-for-gaming/" target="_blank">my buying guide</a> helps newbies (like me) and those in the know (not me) figure out what projector is right for their needs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So when you are thinking of the perfect family Christmas gift or trying to find something new for the avid gamer in your life - give this a look. </span></div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-90221519114288666132017-05-08T09:24:00.000-04:002017-05-08T09:24:06.313-04:00Keeping Your Flowers FreshI'm sure I am not the only one who has a laundry list of jobs they filled during their high school and college years. It's actually an interesting question to ask new friends. What interesting places did you work at? For me I held down the fort at many kinds of places - waitress, bartender, dry cleaner, fast food worker, cook, nanny and floral shop. Working in a floral shop was a cool place to meet people who are at many places in their life. I worked with as many funeral clients as I did weddings. While it wasn't always fun it was a way to bring smiles to people's faces at the best and worst times in their lives. When I got to write this fun piece for a client on flowers I decided why not share.<br />
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The Ultimate Guide to Long Lasting Flowers </h1>
That special someone wowed you again with a beautiful bouquet of your favorite flowers. Whether it’s a dozen scarlet red roses or a simple pair of yellow blooms, you can’t help but be brightened by their arrival. The <a href="https://www.rosesonly.co.uk/" target="_blank">flower shop</a> delivered them with handy instructions for how to get started. You followed the directions and put them in water - now there they sit looking beautiful! The only problem is that in just a few days they will start to wilt and your special delivery will be in the garbage bin. What if there were ways to help your flowers last longer and stay beautiful? Here are some ways to keep those beautiful buds blooming longer and even more beautiful!
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Flower Shop Pro Tip #1: Add Some Fizz </h2>
As medical professionals are collectively cautioning us against our favorite soda pop, we are tasked with finding additional uses for the bubbly sitting idle on our shelves. One of the coolest ways to use up that extra soda stored in the pantry is to help boost your blooms with bubbles. Roses and other flowers <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/24/how-to-keep-flowers-fresh-using-7up_n_2011938.html" target="_blank">flourish in the presence of sugar</a>. Many floral experts have found that by using around ¼ cup of regular sugary soda in your vase water you can add days to the life of your flowers. If you are using a clear vase use clear soda and no one will know your secret bloom booster.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFXiqmuimtpylKcEfN0Ju9jI8eLKEtm3d9hlHhSGHm5d_jiqlguvI5FQmYLx9Y-w2f-tG_H-yzfYytKyPU81XM3KBk4qNvlgjoYpMjFn8zk_YCXRdxSlIM62uSA4GqskbxS2PAg/s1600/vodka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFXiqmuimtpylKcEfN0Ju9jI8eLKEtm3d9hlHhSGHm5d_jiqlguvI5FQmYLx9Y-w2f-tG_H-yzfYytKyPU81XM3KBk4qNvlgjoYpMjFn8zk_YCXRdxSlIM62uSA4GqskbxS2PAg/s200/vodka.jpg" width="200" /></a>Flower Shop Pro Tip #2: The Bartender’s Solution </h2>
Another cool way that flower experts are recommending to prolong the life of your fresh roses is to add a little booze to give them some extra encouragement. North Carolina State University Horticulturalist <a href="http://www.livescience.com/38901-keep-cut-flowers-fresh.html" target="_blank">John Dole told Scientific American</a>, “When you add a few drops of vodka to vase water, it probably delays wilting by inhibiting a flower's production of ethylene, a ripening gas that plants emit”. Thus outlining how vodka can be used as another innovative way to lengthen the time you can enjoy your fresh cut flowers. By giving your flowers back some of the nourishment that was diminished when it was cut, you can add to their natural beauty as well. Just a few drops of vodka (or any clear spirit) to your water (along with a teaspoon of sugar) can seriously lengthen your roses life. Make sure to change out the water/vodka/sugar mix every other day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HCKvHdo4jGFaMsbU-xeXuHl1hlmw5Shkqfr55ApHmsO3-rkJwv4aqFkCVPehwNBrlK-1eASXBnfe28nmlBsRF58P3GBfSyO_O3cbT0PX2c6x-mgjHPeCXUQhyPNRTUMWED9HNQ/s1600/aspirin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HCKvHdo4jGFaMsbU-xeXuHl1hlmw5Shkqfr55ApHmsO3-rkJwv4aqFkCVPehwNBrlK-1eASXBnfe28nmlBsRF58P3GBfSyO_O3cbT0PX2c6x-mgjHPeCXUQhyPNRTUMWED9HNQ/s200/aspirin.jpg" width="200" /></a>Flower Shop Pro Tip #3: Keeps Headaches Away Too </h2>
Want to know how you can both cure a headache and enhance your fresh roses? Try aspirin! This oldie, but goodie has been shown to keep fresh cut flowers fresher, longer. Simply crush one aspirin tablet and add it to the water. The salicylic acid housed in the aspirin tablet will keep the water clean and free from potentially damaging bacteria.<br />
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Flower Shop Pro Tip #4: All Day Hold </h2>
Hairspray can do so much more than just keep fly-aways in check. It has been used to keep ladies stockings from running, remove stains and even kill bugs. Now we know that just a spritz of<a href="https://www.babble.com/beauty/22-amazing-and-practical-uses-for-hairspray/" target="_blank"> hair spray can keep your cut flowers looking fresher</a> for longer. Hold the can several inches away from the blooms and spray the underside of buds and leaves. This is a great way to keep those roses looking beautiful longer.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ09Q3E1DTAlcRQI9m2CQYwwKuAvQPLJiZHCNxP36t1wmiYAux4d6ZKGAWPdxAad9SAoQr6-GRxeP67AJx34Q-SnOUzNwNlDPGzTovwPLwx-XFgPrOfFsfIl0rVymA4K1Rej07YA/s1600/Trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ09Q3E1DTAlcRQI9m2CQYwwKuAvQPLJiZHCNxP36t1wmiYAux4d6ZKGAWPdxAad9SAoQr6-GRxeP67AJx34Q-SnOUzNwNlDPGzTovwPLwx-XFgPrOfFsfIl0rVymA4K1Rej07YA/s200/Trim.jpg" width="200" /></a>Flower Shop Pro Tip #5: Keeps Whites Whiter and Blooms Bloomier </h2>
Another bacteria-busting agent that can help further your flower power is none other than household bleach. Who knew that something we all have on hand could add days to the life of our flowers? By adding just a quarter teaspoon of bleach per quart of water you can amp up your roses. Another option is to add a few drops of bleach along with a teaspoon of sugar to do double duty. Not only will your vase water stay clean, but any potentially harmful bacteria will be kept at bay.
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Flower Shop Pro Tip #6: ACV </h2>
ACV or apple cider vinegar has become a pantry staple for everything from making salad dressing to boosting immunity. Horticultural experts recently found that <a href="http://vinegartips.com/vinegar_tips/keep-cut-flowers-fresh-mix-2-tablespoons-apple-cider-vinegar-and-2-tablespoons-sugar-with-the-vase-water-before-adding-flowers-be-sure-to-change-the-water-every-few-days-to-enhance-your-flowers/" target="_blank">ACV can also help keep cut flowers looking better longer</a>. By mixing 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and 2 tablespoons of sugar into your flowers water you will extend their life and keep them looking their best.<br />
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Flower Shop Pro Tip #7: A Solution for Pocket Change </h2>
We’ve all heard the adage, “see a penny, pick it up, all day long you’ll have good luck”. But did you know they might have been referring to the luck of your fresh flowers? Ok, maybe that wasn’t the reason behind the rhyme but it is true that adding pennies to your vase water can help keep your flowers spruced up. The copper found in in pennies acts as an acidifier, which means that it inhibits bacterial growth. Since bacteria are no friends to your fresh roses, pennies will add cents to your blooms.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_0_2I73I47Q8L0Lz8n0wgik4_J6IA5zN0wAzXc48al17Qetev9VhACRDb9PcOzImJkz-ZToCTV5yrzbCunMEmEIjyvva8jLfz25SyT29ElypBwEZ2CMBhHh5IVOiVBTJ2m3dJA/s1600/sugar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_0_2I73I47Q8L0Lz8n0wgik4_J6IA5zN0wAzXc48al17Qetev9VhACRDb9PcOzImJkz-ZToCTV5yrzbCunMEmEIjyvva8jLfz25SyT29ElypBwEZ2CMBhHh5IVOiVBTJ2m3dJA/s200/sugar.jpg" width="200" /></a>Flower Shop Pro Tip #8: Sweeten Your Way to Better Bouquets</h2>
One of the key ingredients in many commercial plant foods is some form of sweetener. Sugar is one of the best things to add to your vase water to extend the life and the beauty of your fresh cut bouquet. Dissolve 2-3 tablespoons of white sugar for each quart of warm vase water. The sugar will feed your plants while the vinegar will keep bacteria levels to a minimum.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_0_2I73I47Q8L0Lz8n0wgik4_J6IA5zN0wAzXc48al17Qetev9VhACRDb9PcOzImJkz-ZToCTV5yrzbCunMEmEIjyvva8jLfz25SyT29ElypBwEZ2CMBhHh5IVOiVBTJ2m3dJA/s1600/sugar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>
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Flower Shop Pro Tip #9: Chill Out Your Roses </h2>
Experienced florists know that cold temperature slow the aging process in cut flowers. This is why most flower shops keep cut blooms cool before they reach their final destination. So why not put flowers in the fridge when you are not enjoying them? The simple act of <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/270053/3-essential-flower-care-tips" target="_blank">putting your roses in the fridge</a> while you sleep will extend their life for days and keep them looking beautiful during the day. You can’t enjoy them while you sleep so why not extend their beauty while you are awake?<br />
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Flower Shop Pro Tip #10: Trim and Trim Again </h2>
Most of us know that we should trim the ends of flower stems when they arrive. But did you know that trimming should be a process during the life of your fresh cut flowers? When the petals begin to wilt this is because they cannot move the water through the entire stem to get water to the blooms. To aid in this process you can simply shorten the stem. As flowers start losing their luster, trim the stems. You can trim multiple times to keep the flowers fresh for as long as possible.<br />
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These are ten of the most innovative and creative ways to keep your fresh cut roses looking their best for longer. Fortunately, many of these hacks use things you keep around your house. By helping your flowers with extra boosts every other day you can keep their beauty for over a week. Give them a try and see which is your favorite.
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-11101574208530725322017-04-11T13:08:00.000-04:002017-04-11T13:08:17.347-04:00Steps to staying physically and mentally strong in a workplace<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;">A great article I got to write recently. I think these issues effect almost most of us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Geneva;">According to </span><span style="font-family: Geneva;">the
<a href="https://www.bls.gov/tus/charts/chart1.pdf" target="_blank">Bureau of Labor Statistics</a></span><span style="font-family: Geneva;"> the
average American between the ages of 25 and 54 with children spend
approximately 8.8 hours of each day in their office. This equates to 44 hours a
week, which is almost 2,300 hours a year. With so much time spent in the
workplace it is easy for it to become physically and mentally draining. Here we
will look at some simple steps you can take to stay physically and mentally
strong in the workplace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPXH15fq5yisG3PHswGuGgcVRKeGIyklxxMFTiRzqg4I6LfLEQ63iU-LEmSKDq0iYKabFRNNZ1QaY9iYwfElnIRvtbiF1WVbT2WEVbbnHpXh8Hgrbn9Hf_NDGxpDN47NZUvbbOw/s1600/computer-1185637_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPXH15fq5yisG3PHswGuGgcVRKeGIyklxxMFTiRzqg4I6LfLEQ63iU-LEmSKDq0iYKabFRNNZ1QaY9iYwfElnIRvtbiF1WVbT2WEVbbnHpXh8Hgrbn9Hf_NDGxpDN47NZUvbbOw/s320/computer-1185637_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Geneva;"><h3>
Best Ways to
Stay Mentally Strong in the Workplace </h3>
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<span style="font-family: Geneva;">Many Americans report that
the toughest part of their workday is the toll it takes on their mental state.
The more time people spend “cooped up” the higher their rates of depressed
mood, </span><span style="font-family: Geneva;">boredom and even depression</span><span style="font-family: Geneva;">. In order to stay mentally fit you should engage in
simple steps to keep your workplace a mental health haven. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIP_mSylU3xN90hI71y0CDjUj91Nzdi9x6lao0qNU7hZMOLOR4DzyulHFtI1KMWd3_jH2Ym763sG8hl7ApYKYng2-ytB-oV1KIO6lzA1W6wbh7Q31NHjZQjVtHXshYa5zX7rlbw/s1600/men-1979261_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIP_mSylU3xN90hI71y0CDjUj91Nzdi9x6lao0qNU7hZMOLOR4DzyulHFtI1KMWd3_jH2Ym763sG8hl7ApYKYng2-ytB-oV1KIO6lzA1W6wbh7Q31NHjZQjVtHXshYa5zX7rlbw/s320/men-1979261_640.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /></div>
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Know how to
tackle tough conversations using fair language</h3>
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<span style="font-family: Geneva;">While television office
places are usually fun, comical and free from uncomfortable exchanges, the real
world is a different story. Most office workers struggle when it comes time to
have tough conversations with both their superiors and their subordinates. A
great way to make this part of the job easier is to have fair conversations. Find
a place in the office that is calm and comfortable and have a frank
conversation with your office mates. Use fair language to describe whatever
needs discussing. Avoid making things personal or emotional to keep things
copasetic. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Know how to take
feedback and deliver it to others </h3>
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<span style="font-family: Geneva;">Another important area that
most offices could stand to grow is in the delivery of feedback. </span><span style="font-family: Geneva;">A recent study</span><span style="font-family: Geneva;"> showed that by making feedback constructive will help boost the trust
and growth of employees. Experts at Success Magazine outline that constructive
and effective feedback should:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Geneva;">Create an
agreed upon goal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Geneva;">Use carefully
chosen words<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Geneva;">Include
supportive facts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Geneva;">Use a two-way dialogue<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Geneva;">Don’t lump the
good with the bad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Geneva;">Be empathetic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;">Using these tips will help
employers to address important topics while leaving employees feeling positive
and supported. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYNWu1LlUPmWR0fdY68p5zBHjIlrpVQpkS2z6X-1n5yWCDWPqgShQ6hL4TfgUq1DG0PY6Fcmc-L8VLF_xdcXu32yFXUoEXeJPFNnLHn1buVcg8yeRNLzOpz-UEQC1KiU_GbkyQg/s1600/standing-desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYNWu1LlUPmWR0fdY68p5zBHjIlrpVQpkS2z6X-1n5yWCDWPqgShQ6hL4TfgUq1DG0PY6Fcmc-L8VLF_xdcXu32yFXUoEXeJPFNnLHn1buVcg8yeRNLzOpz-UEQC1KiU_GbkyQg/s320/standing-desk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;"><h2>
Best Ways to
Stay Physically Strong in the Workplace</h2>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;">While supporting your mind
is important, too many office workers overlook ways to keep their body strong
while at work. No, you probably won’t bring your weight rack and treadmill to
the office, but there are ways you can support your body in the workplace. For
example, have you considered a </span><span style="font-family: Geneva;"><a href="https://www.jasonl.com.au/collections/stand-up-desks" target="_blank">stand-up desk</a></span><span style="font-family: Geneva;">? Just </span><span style="font-family: Geneva;"><a href="https://www.jasonl.com.au/blogs/main/infographic-the-different-manifestations-of-the-standing-desk" target="_blank">standing a couple of times</a></span><span style="font-family: Geneva;"> a day instead of sitting can have marked benefits.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrM3UV3YcMiObQ61s3mbjkrXlnLjRKBbubnf-bzZiTyF1WyhjVwhVi9fWHhN9xp-YEOj_3gJlu7jq2yKV1unqRJI2uzjvsBerNKCGpkO5DX_53OPPVIbTfRSi-KSB_qY7W-Qgwg/s1600/partitions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrM3UV3YcMiObQ61s3mbjkrXlnLjRKBbubnf-bzZiTyF1WyhjVwhVi9fWHhN9xp-YEOj_3gJlu7jq2yKV1unqRJI2uzjvsBerNKCGpkO5DX_53OPPVIbTfRSi-KSB_qY7W-Qgwg/s320/partitions.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 12pt;"><h3>
Workplace
Exercises </h3>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;">There are many simple
exercises and stretches that can be done in a small space like a cubicle. One
of the series of exercises you can use are core exercises. One example would be
to sit in your stationary office chair and extend your legs in front of you.
Hold them for as long as you can while breathing deeply. This will help
strengthen your core. You can also do a series of stretches to help keep your
body from getting sore. Toe touches, arm circles and basic yoga poses are great
ways to stay loose throughout the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Who hasn’t heard of the squat and lunge challenge. Even the smallest
offices have plenty of room to challenge yourself and your office mates. One of
our favorite virtual office mates, Jason L. walks us through a series of easy
to follow, </span><a href="https://www.jasonl.com.au/blogs/main/infographic-17-essential-office-stretches-that-you-should-do-now-to-avoid-injury-at-work"><span style="font-family: Geneva;">brief exercises and stretches</span></a><span style="font-family: Geneva;"> that will keep you moving throughout the day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxk1_qbzHL4I91jpvZ3pJvSyBOrqx0ILWJDae5ooRhyXg2l3sci3nGUhIlh06aG30yw3RewuEFCN402djVRa4YQNuOtriEnnKp5KAWSPFYIdcIqAzLXELZEiwWOQPQai1issBv0w/s1600/furniture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxk1_qbzHL4I91jpvZ3pJvSyBOrqx0ILWJDae5ooRhyXg2l3sci3nGUhIlh06aG30yw3RewuEFCN402djVRa4YQNuOtriEnnKp5KAWSPFYIdcIqAzLXELZEiwWOQPQai1issBv0w/s320/furniture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;"><h3>
Support Your
Frame While You Work </h3>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;">One of the most important
ways to support your body while in the workplace is to set up your office in
the best possible way. Choose </span><a href="https://www.jasonl.com.au/"><span style="font-family: Geneva;">ergonomic furniture</span></a><span style="font-family: Geneva;"> to avoid injuries from bad placement. Make sure
your height adjustable desk is at the ideal height for your needs. If you spend
most of your day staring at the computer you might want to consider a standing
workstation or a ball chair to avoid bad posture, strain injuries and an
unsupported body. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;">The workplace no longer
needs to be a sedentary, boring experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Geneva;">These are just a few of the
important ways you support your physical and mental well being in the
workplace. By staying at the top of your game you will be a better employee and
stay healthy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-47071054423902129512017-03-06T13:55:00.001-05:002017-03-06T13:55:39.458-05:00We're getting close!We decided about eight months ago that our little family needs to take a break. So we decided to make some smart money choices and save enough for a trip to Disney World. It didn't leave us much time to save for this big trip but we did it! We went for some of the big upgrades and I am so glad we did.<br />
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Forty days and counting!!!!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.magicalkingdoms.com/timers/"><img alt="magicalkingdoms.com Ticker" border="0" src="http://www.magicalkingdoms.com/timers/tickers/iz6mqfx493g7kv3i.png" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.magicalkingdoms.com/timers/"> <span>Free Disney Tickers</span></a>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-22976155337145001412017-01-30T15:30:00.001-05:002017-01-30T15:30:47.825-05:00Our Favorite Sensory Diet Ingredients<div>
Around age 2 both girls were diagnosed with Sensory Processing Dysfunction. Abby has always been a sensory seeker of the highest proportion. We always thought that as time went on it might be reduced, but that has not been the case. On the other hand, Grace tended to be more of a sensory avoider. As she has gotten older she does MUCH better with texture and even crazes it to some degree. </div>
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What has always astonished me is how much better both girls function when we pay attention to their sensory diet needs. I thought I would put together a list of some of the items that are must haves on our sensory diet list. </div>
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<b>The Gymnic Movin' Sit Inflatable Seat: </b>This little powerhouse has been sat upon by almost every hynie in the house. I must admit on particularly hyper days even I can be found swaying to and from to keep my attention level up. Abby get a lot of input from the dimples, but Grace and I enjoy the ability to move while you sit. Costs just over $30 so a great buy. </div>
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<b>Z-Vibe</b>: Although the Z vibe finally died in our house after 6 years of use, it is a great tool for kids whose sensory needs involve the mouth. For us, that was both girls. Abby used to stuff her mouth and her OT suggested that we use this to give her input before she ate. It did a great job at minimizing stuffing and creating feeding awareness. Grace avoided certain textures so we tried this before she ate things she usually avoided. It helped us get her to eat yogurt and smoothies, but she still won't eat anything with lumps like oatmeal. </div>
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<b>Chewy Necklaces</b>: At nine years old I still often find Abby wearing one of her many chewy necklaces. They beat the heck out of fingernails or sleeves for kids who look for input by chewing. </div>
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<b>Chewy Tubes</b>: In that same vain we have an entire bin (I kid you not, a bin) of various chewy tubes that have been collected over the years. Abby's absolute favorite are the P's and Q's, probably because I can attach them to a necklace. They are inexperience and can be thrown in the dishwasher to keep clean. </div>
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<b>Raising A Sensory Smart Child</b>: This book was just about heaven-sent to a Mom who had never heard of SPD before the day both of her kids were diagnosed with it. There is a book and a cool guide to activities, both of which I loved and used frequently. I highly recommend you invest in both!</div>
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<b>Weighted Blankets</b>: Abby has always been a terrible sleeper. When her OT suggested a weighted blanket it almost sounded like a form of child abuse. Little did I know this well known sensory secret is a must for sensory kids who struggle to sleep. Both girls used them from about 3 until 6. Abby continued to use hers until she outgrew it last year. That being said I am considering buying a larger one for her to use now. </div>
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Please excuse the shameless Amazon plug here, but that is truly where we ordered all of our sensory products. There are some great <a href="https://funandfunction.com/" target="_blank">companies</a> out there selling awesome products but when buying for two kids with two different kinds of needs Amazon fit our budget. </div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-4932993917691460802017-01-18T14:31:00.001-05:002017-01-18T14:31:37.562-05:00Grace the Athlete Versus Grace the Girl <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Grace is athletic. To people who follow me on Instagram or Facebook you probably are well aware of that. You are also probably very aware that I am a very proud sports Mom. In our town sports are everything. I don't think this is something unique to us, but I don't really know. There are a lot of politics and it often impacts our young athletes. While sports can be a huge asset and character builder in kids, in a town like ours there is an underside.<br />
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Grace made the travel basketball squad this year. It is a team of just ten girls who are deemed good enough to compete at this level. It was a HUGE honor for her. She started off the season strong and earned a spot as a starter. Another HUGE honor. She has not had good coaching in basketball so her inexperience showed to some degree on the court. This led to her being unfairly benched. It was ugly and unfair. It killed her self-esteem for a few weeks. After a tricky round of conversations with her coach things are on the upswing.<br />
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What all of this brought about for me was the power that sports can have in the lives of kids who view themselves as athletes. I coach more than one sport in our town and I see my job as a coach to first build the kids up and second to teach them a sport. Unfortunately not all of our coaches see it this way. Too often I am watching the goals look more like first, win and second, make sure the status quo of politics is in order. It's sometimes tough to watch.<br />
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I am partly writing this as a catharsis opportunity for myself, but also because I am sure there are a million Grace's out there who see themselves as athletes. A large part of their identity, and therefore self-esteem is tied into her sports. It's nothing something we taught or even encouraged, it's just her. So, now we as parents are tasked to give her the opportunity she needs to succeed in sports so she can develop a positive self-view. Those of us who were given athletically gifted kids to foster this in them. It's part of their development. And even more importantly, those of us who coach must remember that we are training not just athletes, but developing children. <br />
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<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-1623834769152572452016-08-11T15:07:00.000-04:002016-08-11T15:07:14.216-04:00Change in the windThroughout the summer I have had the opportunity to do a little introspective searching. I have worked less which has led me to think more. I've had time to think about what I want out of life, what is my next step, there do I see my forties taking me. Most importantly, what path do I want to forge down next?<br />
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I'm not really sure if it's something like an early mid-life crisis or just restlessness but I don't think I have ever craved change the way I do right now. I have gone through most of my adult life applying the motto "change is overrated." If things stay the same then they really can't be all that bad. Change equated to me as something I had to overcome and deal with. I saw even the slightest adjustments to my routine as a tiny bit of terror. <br />
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Life the shift of winds I couldn't feel more different. Out of nowhere, like being hit by a truck, the same old, same old suddenly seems stifling. Going about the daily routine, which has always been something that sustained me, feels like suffocation. The most odd part of this new feeling is that it doesn't feel like a bad thing. It isn't the case of being sick of my kids or my marriage or my life. It's quite the opposite. This new feeling strikes me more like growth and revolution. It feels like a new outlook that allows for adventure and new things.<br />
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I'm not really sure how and why this strange shift is occuring but it feels like progress I didn't know I needed. I just hope that positive change is on the horizon waiting for me to grab it. New opportunities, new scenery, newness. I guess it's never too late to change the way you see your life.<br />
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-61252483614333500672016-08-08T15:08:00.000-04:002016-08-11T15:08:47.760-04:00My Shiny New Website<br />
For anyone interested in hiring a very talented web developer, you can see the latest work of my very talented husband on my new website. There are some definiely perks to marrying someone so web savvy. <div>
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<a href="http://kristenfescoe.com/">kristenfescoe.com</a></div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-33021194704431972812016-06-20T00:00:00.000-04:002016-06-20T00:00:00.171-04:00Parenting in a world of tragedy<br />
One of the biggest challenges I face as a mother in 2016 is the level of chaos and terror that I cannot protect my children from. When the kids see a news story of a devastating earthquake, tornado or hurricane I can say with a fair amount of confidence, "don't worry kids, we live in New Jersey and these things just don't happen here."It's possible but when I tell them this it is the reality. What do I tell them when people blow up buildings full of innocent people are shoot entire night clubs full of people doing absolutely nothing wrong. <div>
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It is a challenge we all face collectively. We can't shield them from it because they are going to hear on the bus or the playground. In a class full of 20 kids you better believe that half have already heard it. So, how do you explain these atrocities to an eight year old? I don't have a solid answer to this question so I have a few guiding principles. 1. Only answer what they ask. 2. Be honest and direct, shielding them from the truth will bite you in the end. 3. Allow them to be scared and upset and help them understand that although the world is scary it is our job to live our lives every single day. </div>
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I'd like to think it was easier to parent 50 years ago when war was something a million miles away. I'd like to think that in the past kids were better off not being bombarded with stories of death and hate. Unfortunately that doesn't help the moms and dads of today. It's our jobs to ban together and help make our own part of the world a little safer. </div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-36284300242111611522016-06-03T16:17:00.002-04:002016-06-03T16:17:46.326-04:00They're listening<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_RQtWEG8g-aJcyS8Kynx3wiwPC2gwa0j498UKTFfpLyW8EtI19e_8uyLodJU1Fy21f6IeCj3gsEXR_D7kwWT0qxADDRtEjrre7kIVM2W23Q_RlUX5U0FIcoczyjqXgz0pNr_Dw/s1600/clubhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_RQtWEG8g-aJcyS8Kynx3wiwPC2gwa0j498UKTFfpLyW8EtI19e_8uyLodJU1Fy21f6IeCj3gsEXR_D7kwWT0qxADDRtEjrre7kIVM2W23Q_RlUX5U0FIcoczyjqXgz0pNr_Dw/s320/clubhouse.jpg" width="320" /></a>Jack has always been a big fan of the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, in fact I am fairly certain he is considered an honorary member. Part of the reason I am a fan of the Disney Channel is not the constant bombardment of the Disney brand (which I do love) is that they try to use the old fashioned PSA to encourage kids to do good.<br />
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One of their promotions is something called "The Power of Doing Good." It is a segment where they highlight a child who is doing something proactive in their community to help people, the environment, animals, or another cause. A nice idea, right?<br />
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Last week we finally had some nice, warm weather and sadly Jack and I were cooped up in the house, me working and him watching the tube and playing. I took out the dog to soak up five minutes of sunshine and when I came back in I found Jack rummaging through his toy bin. I asked what he was doing, to which he responded simply, "looking for my grabber for the power of doing good." I was a little puzzled what he meant when it hit me that one of the segments was of a little boy collecting garbage on the beach with his grabber and throwing it away. I smiled, helped him find his grabber and off we went.<br />
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So for ten minutes, in the middle of the day, my four-year-old helped in the power of doing good. Such an amazing reminder that although they're listening every time a curse passes our lips, we glance at our phones while driving or gossip about a neighbor... they're also listening to the good in the world. Sometimes I am frightened by what is blaring from the television, what comes out of the mouths of my children's friends and what messages are bombarding my kids. I can't control it, I can't stop it, I'm not even sure that I can balance it out. Then something like a simple PSA reaching a four year old in the middle of the day reminds me that there is *some* good and kind things influencing my kids. That might be enough to help me win the balancing act and raise kids who are kind and caring. Amen to that!<br />
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<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-67099680556341326672016-05-27T14:52:00.000-04:002016-05-27T14:52:10.018-04:00Spring Sports LamentThe end of winter and beginning of Spring proved to be a wet, chilly and downright depressing couple of months. March and April surprised us with days in the 80's and we all thought the groundhog finally had it right. But alas, definitely not the case. Our Spring track season began, and this year with a notable difference. Brian is now the person in charge of the program.<br />
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One hundred and eighty six kids, a boat load of parents and siblings and a wide range of opinions and egos to match. There were definite growing pains and many sleepless nights. There have been battles and differences of opinions, but thankfully cool heads have prevailed. The thing we were not able to overcome was out tete a tete with Mother Nature. She cancelled practices, got us wet, forced us to move meets (which is a big undertaking at the last minute). I think she got a great deal of satisfaction out of creating a "baptism by fire" experience for us.<br />
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So now it's 90 degrees, after sweatshirt weather last week. We should be used to this in New Jersey but every year we all cry out the same tune of "where did our spring go?" The program as a whole has swung from "track is hard in the rain" to "track is harder in the heat." Personally I'll take heat over rain but then again clapping and cheering is largely unaffected by weather.<br />
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So our regular season winds down and the girls have started training for AAU qualifiers. Abby jumped 9'7" last night. Grace is stuck around a 7 minute mile but she'll get her time down. She is throwing the turbo javelin about 34 feet. Not too shabby.<br />
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I'll be glad, just as long as it's not raining.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-56665476890759680942016-04-11T01:00:00.000-04:002016-06-14T17:41:16.360-04:00Volunteering<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Over the course of my adult life I have almost always been
involved in volunteer work. My parents had us begin volunteering in middle
school as helpers for the Special Olympics. Early on I discovered the immense
benefits of helping others. Since middle school I have been a school volunteer,
room parent, teacher at my church and most recently helping fulfill the
responsibility of running our local track program (with Brian). There are weeks
that it feels like too much; my job, being a mom and wife, a catechist and the
track responsibilities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What has occurred to me lately is that there is a small
group of people in the world who are the doers. The ones who put in those extra
time to help fill a need or run a program or teach a room full of eager
children. It is the same faces I see over and over and over again when you ask
for extra help. They’re quiet about it. They don’t brag about all the time they
spend helping where no one says thank you and no one even notices. They just
fill the need because they know someone has to and they feel like it is their
responsibility. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am lucky that my parents taught be the value of helping. I
don’t need thanks or notice, I simply love putting my time and effort to good
work. But remember that when you see the person who volunteers to teach, coach,
organize or help, a thank you might just fill their spirit. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-84179905529462812232016-03-09T16:58:00.000-05:002016-06-15T16:58:44.299-04:00Faith I am a former lapsed catholic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvctU_dRDB4x2DUF1W-4RXEUDXHf7zPXQ7926XQU1JUIABLjC3ixDD9SUie_WBW9B02vWipn6ZdxmCQK7ep-P6nWGMVusGV_TuplVP_XwRS0BtX5eHDHO0by_O88H0RotDjqtjxw/s1600/2016-03-19+16.51.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvctU_dRDB4x2DUF1W-4RXEUDXHf7zPXQ7926XQU1JUIABLjC3ixDD9SUie_WBW9B02vWipn6ZdxmCQK7ep-P6nWGMVusGV_TuplVP_XwRS0BtX5eHDHO0by_O88H0RotDjqtjxw/s320/2016-03-19+16.51.02.jpg" width="320" /></a>For a long time I found my inner voice constantly telling me that I did not need any formal church or building or affiliation to be a believer. I have always felt that in the wind or a sunset is where I truly saw God. It felt like being required to have my butt in a pew every single Sunday was an imposition on my life. Now don't worry, you are NOT about to read a preachy post about going to church. Where you spend your Sundays is your business. This is just about my own journey.<br />
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In my teen years I bounced from church to church. I tried the baptist church (which was fun) and evangelical. I tried several non-denominational Christian churches and they only ever felt like home for a short time. When we got married we chose a highly educated reverend who would marry us in a general Christian ceremony.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCgYdPijuIZ_iyqqFyWEBqIikizrOG2q_yL9ijAJ41QpFFiAdv0pUm7VDVEzFdnducWkJH8nZ1Va5l_CQ1cNUilGAWqjYofkpavg6bVXjNvrMGXWukcphDgbc2r52r7Py_mBCQg/s1600/2016-03-27+10.30.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCgYdPijuIZ_iyqqFyWEBqIikizrOG2q_yL9ijAJ41QpFFiAdv0pUm7VDVEzFdnducWkJH8nZ1Va5l_CQ1cNUilGAWqjYofkpavg6bVXjNvrMGXWukcphDgbc2r52r7Py_mBCQg/s320/2016-03-27+10.30.07.jpg" width="320" /></a>When we had the girls the idea of baptism struck me from time to time but why baptize them in a church that wasn't "our church." This is when the search began again. We looked around but nothing seemed to suit us as a family. The thought occurred to me to try on my old religion and see if it still fit. Slowly, over a matter of months it started to sink in. My non-catholic husband even started to feel at home in the tradition of the catholic church.<br />
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As an aside I will say that being a catholic in this day isn't always easy. There were horrific actions by member of my faith that should have been punished to the furthest extend of the law, rather than ignored. There are parts of my faith that I quietly disagree with. Then there are the looks you get when you say you can't attend a get together until after 6 on a Saturday because you have to go to mass. That's the moment when you get the "can't you just skip it look."<br />
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So it became obvious we needed to move on this whole "becoming a catholic family thing." Brian began to attend religious formation (RCIA) classes and I initiated the process of having a catholic wedding ceremony to make us official and a baptism for the girls. Within just a year we were married by the church (no we do not celebrate two anniversaries) and had our daughters baptized on the same day!<br />
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My catholic faith is something that I need to stay grounded in this crazy world. I teach, volunteer and organize at my church because when I am there I don't feel the crunch of regular life. Time moves slower when I working directly for God. The light shines brighter there. So if we can't make it to a party or a get together until 6:15 on a Saturday night just know that it is for a good reason.<br />
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-46839285661530589242016-02-22T02:30:00.000-05:002016-06-14T17:46:44.197-04:00Trim Healthy Mama<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_L6RZg_4PFheUEnxS4zOq83SUvbbtkywLl_yyf1KPRgmMCpyCIBZsnnzvoaKbmedAULFALWWUbnoneHczJKw1yHyvaFg7sNLx-yLDOQu1P1ur5VuxLMNI0IHz_4dT81a43oVf4g/s1600/THM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_L6RZg_4PFheUEnxS4zOq83SUvbbtkywLl_yyf1KPRgmMCpyCIBZsnnzvoaKbmedAULFALWWUbnoneHczJKw1yHyvaFg7sNLx-yLDOQu1P1ur5VuxLMNI0IHz_4dT81a43oVf4g/s320/THM.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>
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From the time I started the process of infertility treatments I watched the number on the scale climb slowly higher and higher. It is an unfortunate side effect of both the PCOS and Insulin resistance but also the medications that are sometimes used to get and stay pregnant. It was a price I was willing to pay to be a Mom. <div>
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Now that my "baby" is four years old I think the time for blaming the "baby weight" has long passed. I have tried no carbs (lost 30 pounds and gained it back), weight watchers, atkins, sugar busters and nothing worked long term. Everything seemed to work in the short term but rarely anything lasting. </div>
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I recently heard about a very different kind of eating plan called Trim Healthy Mama. No food group is excluded completely and people all around me were achieving great success. So I have decided to try it! I am reading the book and it is simple enough at first. As you read on the complexities of the plan become obvious. That being said, it also seems incredibly sensible and logical. It is a thorough book, although it might require a few chapters be reread a couple times. </div>
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As I work through it I will try to update on my progress. Here goes nothing!</div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-62473922354313781312015-11-10T09:02:00.000-05:002015-11-11T11:25:12.363-05:00Fun Run Sponsor'sA Message From Abby and Grace:<br />
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<div style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Hello Friends and Family,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fffefe; color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Abby and Grace will be participating in a </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">cool program called the Rice Owl Fun Run. They’re raising money for their school and learning about fitness, leadership and character. On November 18, 2015, they will run 30 to 35 laps around the Fun Run Speedway to help our school. Would you please be one of their sponsors? They can't wait to run with all of their classmates. Even just ten cents a lap would help! They'll tell you how many laps they ran after the Fun Run! Thanks for sponsoring them!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fffefe; color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Thanks!!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fefdfd; color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Kristen, Abby and Grace</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfcfc; color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Click here for Grace’s Page: </span><a href="https://funrun.com/a/s/4LqBX6eH">https://funrun.com/a/s/4LqBX6eH</a> </div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfcfc; color: #767676; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Click here for Abby’s Page: </span><a href="https://funrun.com/a/s/C6bWWViw">https://funrun.com/a/s/C6bWWViw</a> </div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-31495212950139723512015-10-12T09:46:00.001-04:002015-10-12T09:47:17.295-04:00Preschool Drop OutUnfortunately Jack's run at 3-year-old preschool was a bust. After about three weeks of screaming, crying, hitting himself in the head (that's what his teachers told us he did when he got mad) and being completely a mess we decided he was too young. It certainly didn't help that we were not in love with how the school handled his lack of adjustment. There was a lot of shooshing and telling him he was upsetting the class. They were pretty cold and that made matter worse.<br />
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So, now he is back at home with me. I am taking him to classes at the Y twice a week and we will try school again (at a different school) in January or next year. It's sad that his experience was so poor. It was a disappointing experience all around. Hopefully our next attempt will be a smashing success.<br />
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On a more positive note, someone if officially COMPLETELY out of diapers!!! Hooray. NO. MORE. DIAPERS!!<br />
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-15795329245589104712015-09-17T09:41:00.002-04:002015-09-17T09:41:38.392-04:00School 2015The summer drew to a close and it was time for school, yet again. The biggest difference this year is that all three of my children were getting ready on the first day of school. The girls were pleasantly ready to go back to school. And Jack-Jack was pure excitement. The first day came and went and for the girls it was anti-climactic. I guess by third grade you have the hang of things.<br />
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The girls are in the same class again this year. Partly because they are very autonomous at school and partly because they are both still in the inclusion class.<br />
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Jack did great on his first day. No tears, not sadness just smiles and happiness. That certainly made my transition easier. I went to Trader Joe's BY MYSELF! </div>
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Unfortunately that was just the calm before the storm. When I picked him up on day two I was informed that he screamed (not cried, screamed) for two hours. I was a little surprised but had hoped it would be a steady process.<br />
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Day three was a little better with some crying on and off but definitely improvement.<br />
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That brings us to today. Day four. He woke up and immediately cried about going. He cried all morning. He cried on the way there and the walk in. He walked into his classroom and started to sob. In those moments, what the heck are we to do. He is there for fun and learning. He's just three. But if I walk out with him that isn't a great message to send. So here I sit, with a pit in my gut and a close eye on the clock. Please God, let him have settled in.<br />
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<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-68983075620045054122015-08-12T15:29:00.000-04:002015-08-12T15:29:00.700-04:00Is it too late for Easter Pictures?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">I definitely think three or four months is the perfect amount of time in which to pull pictures off of your camera. </span></div>
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They sure do clean up nice!</div>
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<br /><br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-72498574807724937672015-08-10T15:24:00.000-04:002015-08-10T15:24:00.311-04:00Summer Musings<div style="text-align: center;">
It has been an up and down kind of summer thus far. We have had some high highs, and some very low lows.</div>
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We were fortunate to have two vacations this year.</div>
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One at our local beach... </div>
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and one in North Carolina with my in-laws.</div>
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We have spent lots of time at the pool and playing outside.</div>
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We've really been lucky and had nice hot weather in NJ.</div>
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We've run a 5-k ...</div>
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...and gone for long hikes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssiT08b49hlg7VakrOuVb2zApQDNV7OM5YpQ32Iv0ky-J0TqzeBz8XH1Ff2lwCR5Lmgt5Q1M-LLAzko-t5mnpYD3oCLZ8w9H91wwjLm8ekEoTzZ6pJMpaer7SOObxPDpGGoR8cw/s1600/2015-07-25+18.00.44-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssiT08b49hlg7VakrOuVb2zApQDNV7OM5YpQ32Iv0ky-J0TqzeBz8XH1Ff2lwCR5Lmgt5Q1M-LLAzko-t5mnpYD3oCLZ8w9H91wwjLm8ekEoTzZ6pJMpaer7SOObxPDpGGoR8cw/s320/2015-07-25+18.00.44-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We have one more month of summer vacation here in NJ and we plan to get the most out of it!</div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-76244828510863429442015-08-07T15:24:00.000-04:002015-08-07T15:24:01.001-04:00Wisdom<br />
Sadly we lost a member of our family this summer. Wisdom was taken from us too soon. We don't really have all the answers as to what happened but he took ill and even after a diagnosis of Lymes Disease, he took a significant turn for the worse and went into organ system failure. I cannot express the sadness we all felt, and still feel. It's still hard to think about.<br />
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He came and went so fast. </div>
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We miss him. </div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-62557637753312915312015-05-18T11:53:00.000-04:002015-05-18T11:53:20.422-04:00Super Simple Granola<span style="font-family: inherit;">When Abby was formally diagnosed as allergic to tree nuts, our ability to buy store made granola become much more difficult. She loves granola in her soy-yogurt so we have been working on a recipe that will work for her needs. I was using a recipe from the Pioneer Woman that I liked but I decided to play around on my own and I have to say this recipe was a HIT! Abby and I sat and ate it by the handful. Best of all, it was SO SIMPLE!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Basic Granola </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ingredients<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">3 cups rolled oats <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">4 tablespoons
packed light brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">1/2 teaspoon ground
cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">1/4 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">1/3 cup honey<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">1/4 cup coconut oil<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>2</span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"> teaspoon vanilla
extract<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">1/2 cup raisins,
craisins or dry fruit<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">1/2 cup chopped
nuts or seeds<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Instructions:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">Pre-heat the oven to 300°F.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">Combine the oats, brown sugar,
cinnamon, and salt in a bowl and stir to combine. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">In a separate microwavable bowl,
combine the honey, oil, and vanilla and stir to combine. Microwave for approximately
30 seconds. Let cool for about a minute and then pour over the oat mixture, mixing
well until the oats are evenly coated. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">Spread the mixture in a rimmed baking
sheet that is well coated with cooking spray. Bake for 15 minutes, stir and
continue baking until the granola is very light golden brown, about 10 minutes
more. Make sure to mix the oats at the edges to the middle so they do not burn.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">Remove the baking sheet to a wire rack and cool the granola about
20 minutes. You can give it a mix every five minutes or so as it will harden as
it sits. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">Once cool, add whatever fruit, nuts or seeds you desire and toss
to combine. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">7.<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">Store granola in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks, if it
lasts that long!</span></span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-10490705688707053302015-05-13T09:30:00.000-04:002015-05-13T09:30:00.063-04:00May's Gluten Free Goodies<br />
Another month, another great box of gluten free stuff to try. This months box was filled with many things we have never tried, which I love. <div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcI7r903ai1sorsM0zN4ZYXOkPTxytMJPPDSILQuaRGC-2HReFb85n8E4Ny15nMARZkphNL2m7LIaDfXjcMxKm5-CiEHbn1w0cSr5TYqGlYzQv6rvbAVOAPCy9o7sfljfNgcgy-g/s1600/2015-05-07+15.48.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcI7r903ai1sorsM0zN4ZYXOkPTxytMJPPDSILQuaRGC-2HReFb85n8E4Ny15nMARZkphNL2m7LIaDfXjcMxKm5-CiEHbn1w0cSr5TYqGlYzQv6rvbAVOAPCy9o7sfljfNgcgy-g/s320/2015-05-07+15.48.30.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Lot's of yummy, crunch salty snacks. We loved the pita chips and they were delicious with hummus.<br />
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The Bare Belly Sunscreen was awesome. That went straight into my track bag. I cannot wait to try the sauce goddess sample. </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">I LOVE Luna Bars, although I do have to say that the peppermint ones are not their strongest offering, in my humble opinion. </span><br />
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Now this one was not included in my box, but did you know these lovelies are gluten free???</div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-51704019090360756882015-05-11T09:24:00.000-04:002015-05-11T09:24:09.629-04:00Pictures and thingsI sometimes gather my thoughts and come up with what I think will be a brilliant blog post. Then I sit down to write and after writing all day professionally, I come up short with my personal writing. It isn't that I don't have lots to tell, it's just that my brain is out of words. In the last month or so the kiddo's have been up to so much.<br />
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A certain boy turned 3. </div>
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The girls received their first holy communion.<br />
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Track has been going very well. Abby is kicking RS's butt and taking names. She ran a 400 meter race and came in 4th out of 12! Grace has had Personal Records in all of her 3 favorite events (1500, 800 and 400) and is headed to the Championship meet and maybe even the Junior Olympics.<br />
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Life for Brian and I has been hectic. Brian is taking over the role of the commissioner of track for next season. It is a surprisingly time consuming role. It's so great to be able to give back in such a big way but as he takes over he is gone a lot more for meetings and things. I am working like crazy, both writing and teaching. Plus the responsibilities of home and gardening and being Mom to three crazy kids. I know I am going to miss this all some day but I just hope I am rested enough to remember it. :D </div>
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-21432840397880899762015-04-19T12:49:00.000-04:002015-04-23T12:50:09.625-04:00Gluten Free Goodies!We had the privilege of trying a number of new Gluten Free, Vegan and/or Health Smart products thanks to our friends at the Gluten Free Media Group. Most of you know that we have restricted diet due to food allergies (egg, milk, tree nut and agave) and we try to limit gluten. What many people do not know is that the amount of gluten in things we eat every day, like bread and pasta, is as much as 200% higher now than when I was a child. Meaning it is being put into foods. Just something to think about!<br />
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Our lovely box of goodies was full of great items we have never tried (with the exception of Skinny Pop, which we love and IS VEGAN... EVEN THE CHEESE FLAVOR!!!)</div>
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These supplements have been awesome as we struggle through an awful NJ spring allergy season. They also taste fantastic! </div>
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I am now in love with these pumpkin seeds. I like to keep things like this in my van and purse. These are a new must!</div>
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And, how the heck can you go wrong with chocolate!</div>
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This was a new category for us. It is a sauce to add to asian inspired dishes. I have been trying to master a few dishes in this category so I can't wait to get testing!</div>
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I LOVED THIS BAR! I limit my carbs because I am insulin resistant and with only 4 net grams of carbs these are awesome. I haven't seen them in stores but amazon had them.</div>
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We have tried many different sunbutters but these are tops! And the little pouch is ideal for track meets or games. </div>
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Who thought a quinoa cookie could be good? It was!!!</div>
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Love, love, love, love, love!</div>
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Everything in our box this month was a hit. I suggest if you can get yours hands on some, go try them!!!</div>
<br />Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22481322.post-54990519880788011232015-03-30T11:20:00.000-04:002015-03-30T11:20:03.455-04:00Togetherness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I found out I was having multiples (was triplets to begin with) I wondered how much children would get along when they got older. Would they be the inseparable kind of twins? Would they get along better than most kids? Would they drive each other nuts because they were together so much? </div>
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Then they were born and I realized that they were siblings, not just twins. Sure they fight sometimes, but probably less than most siblings. We chocked that up to the fact that they were twins. But we always put an emphasis on the importance of your siblings. When no one else in the world is there for you, a sister always can be.<br />
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Then when we knew another baby was on the way I started to worry. How could this new person fit into the world of twins? Would this baby always be the third wheel? Would he/she ever be able to fit in?<br />
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Then he was here. And they loved him. And although there are moments when he is the third wheel, he fits in their world better than I could have imagined. I love watching they bond and grow and love each other. He misses them terrible when they are gone at school. They hug him so tight when they get home. They're quite a trio these three. </div>
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Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08397695241403505531noreply@blogger.com2