tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81882178354202252602024-02-07T12:33:12.929-08:00Our Pickwick PapersLaurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-59707161734075937402013-02-01T11:25:00.001-08:002013-02-01T11:25:59.077-08:00unforgotten momentsI'm constantly trying to think of ways to document our lives. We've done family journals which was good if you just have a family of girls. In my experience getting boys to write anything is a big challenge. Right now I've scaled the journaling down to the book Q&A a Day For Kids, by Betsy Franco. It's a 3 year journal with just a daily question for kids to answer. This is a way to capture some of the thoughts of a kid as they grow up. I also have this blog that I post to every once in a while. But, I've been looking for something more. The kids grow just so fast, and I've been wanting a way to just capture our every day lives for them to remember. You know those little moments that you will be sad are long gone when they have grown up. I'm a more visual person and there are things that pictures can capture that writing can't, and vice versa. But, because the kids are still young and it's like pulling teeth to try and get some of them to write their thoughts and feelings down, I decided to go with the visual. <br />
I decided I wanted to take little snapshots of our days-- just one or two --- and be able to post them in an online journal. I don't own a cell phone ---- I know that is shocking to so many of you, but I don't. Most people are able to do this with instagram and programs like that. But because that isn't an option for me right now, and I'm not sure if I want it to be, I've decided to go with Tumblr. <br />
On the side bar there is a link to my page. It's called Unforgotten Moments. I will load daily pictures with a date and sometimes a caption, and that's it. Easy. No long blog post, just a visual journal of the little, simple, every day stuff. I have big plans to be able to put all these snapshots in a photo book at the end of the year, and continue it every year. <br />
I will still blog here when I want to say more and explain things we may be working on.<br />
I would welcome anyone that wants to join me on Tumblr!<br />
Here are the pics for today:<br />
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Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-68488766864168245102012-11-02T07:57:00.000-07:002012-11-02T07:57:27.356-07:00Halloween 2012This past month has made us a little tired with a newborn in the house that doesn't like to sleep at night. We did manage to get some Halloween celebrating done though. Not as much as the kids prefer but oh well.<br />
We we able to do a few quick crafts. We made these little felt pumpkins and squashes that I found on pinterest.<br />
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We also decorated some halloween plates. Malachi has really been into the Legend of Sleepy Hollow this Halloween so he did a drawing of the headless horseman.<br />
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The parents got treated to a Halloween play directed by Malachi.<br />
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The kids carved their pumpkins all by themselves this year. They don't have the most creative designs but I guess that will come with age.<br />
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A few years ago I made these mummy hot dogs for Halloween, and the kids have begged for them ever since. So they had a lovely nutritious lunch of mummy hot dogs.<br />
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Amelia was Raggedy Ann for Halloween, and thank goodness their Grandma Freeman agreed to make her costume! She was such a cute Raggedy Ann!<br />
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Malachi is studying the Middle Ages this year for history so he asked his Grandmother to make him a Robin Hood outfit. He dresses up in this almost every day. He takes this very seriously!<br />
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Elijah changed his mind constantly with what he wanted to be for Halloween. We tried to get him to be a pirate, but he wasn't going for it. At the last minute he picked out Malachi's old bat costume from the dress-up box. But, he didn't want to paint his face black and he didn't want to wear the ears.<br />
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Before the trick or treating we had a meal of bloody eyeballs!<br />
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Hope everyone had a good Halloween!<br />
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<br />Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-37011335076192281332012-09-23T09:34:00.000-07:002012-09-24T09:01:05.649-07:00she's here!Baby number four is finally here. Nine mos. is such a long wait! Her name is Coralie and she is just as<br />
precious as can be.<br />
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Finally the kids are done asking me when she will be born.<br />
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After the time in the hospital we were able to go home and try to get back to normal. When we got home we found all of these little welcome home banners everywhere.
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My mom was here from Virginia taking care of the kids and helping them stay busy. Thank goodness<br />
for moms!!<br />
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I like the little swag of dead pine branches as decoration.<br />
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a bouquet of flowers from Amelia to her new little sister.<br />
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a couple of weeks before Coralie was born I was able to knit this cocoon for her to snuggle in while she's so little.<br />
Now it's the "Can I hold the baby now?" So, she gets passed around and around, but she enjoys looking at them and listening to all their giggles.<br />
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Welcome to the family baby girl!<br />
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Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-42250681230675104822012-07-24T10:39:00.001-07:002012-07-25T05:55:19.637-07:00Well Hello . . .What a new post?! Well, I thought I should post something this year. Now is the time to do it because in September the new baby will be here and things will get really busy. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel for this pregnancy. It has been a rough one. I've decided that I'm a horrible pregnant mom. For the first five and a half months I'm so sick that I could care less what is happening around me. The kids can eat whatever they want and do whatever they want and I don't bat an eye. The rest of the time I am purely exhausted and try to move as little as possible. So as you can imagine things have been a little upside down around here.
But, I thought I should post something before baby number four is born. A girl by the way!!
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Malachi turned eight. I can't believe I have an eight year old.
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<align"center">He's acting older too. He asked for a cheesecake instead of a cake with some cartoon character on it. Justin took over making it for him, which was wonderful for me. He also asked for things like a football and a baseball glove instead of toys.
Malachi also got baptized. He was soooo excited for this. He had been planning this day for months. Everything went really well and it turned out exactly how he wished. </align"center"><br />
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<align"center"><align"center"><align"center">We sure love our not so little boy!
Justin's parents came all the way from Arizona to attend the baptism and to visit for awhile. We haven't seen them for two years, so this was a big treat for the kids.
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<align"center"><align"center"><align"center"><align"center">After all that, the kids went to Virginia to stay for awhile without the parents. This they look forward to this all year. The stuff that goes on when the parents aren't around! And, this was a big break for me. I haven't been without any kids for eight years. I usually have at least one of them with me.
There were stories of swimming, and horse rides, museums, peaches, ice cream, sugar cereal (sugar cereal is a big deal in our house) . . . .
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<align"center"><align"center"><align"center"><align"center"><align"center">It was a bit of a cultural shock coming back home to the parents!!
</align"center"></align"center"></align"center"></align"center"></align"center">Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-47579227776951954322012-01-25T09:28:00.000-08:002012-01-25T10:09:09.249-08:00a gift for a friendI hate it when the kids are invited to birthday parties. Is that bad? I hate it because then they want birthday parties of their own, and I hate putting together birthday parties. And I also hate buying presents for kids that the last thing they need is another toy. That is the story of American kids these days---mine included---they have everything, and the toys drive the parents crazy!!
So, I tell the kids they have to make the presents for their friends. This forces them to be creative and to work on developing a skill.
Luckily, this particular friend was a girl---they tend to be easier to make gifts for--- and she likes to play with dolls. So, Amelia and I put together a little doll quilt. She was much more proud of this present than one she would have bought at a store.
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We made a gift bag out of newspaper and the kids decorated it. Gift plus wrapping = $0.
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You can't beat that.Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-698152092160916492011-12-22T07:56:00.001-08:002011-12-22T07:56:06.042-08:00Winter SolsticeToday is Winter Solstice, and normally we would be busy making paper snowflakes and other activities, but today we are busy packing for our trip to Virginia instead. Christmas is only a few days away, and it has come so quickly! I didn't even get half the stuff done that I planned. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6554393823/" title="fall2011 329 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 329" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6554393823_b8f5870439_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And yes, if you look close enough you can still see the big white Christmas tree tag still on the tree! We have been busy, busy, busy. The kids have taken a little slower pace than myself though, and have spent many hours during these colder days playing games of chess. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6554401243/" title="fall2011 325 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 325" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6554401243_ae0d0bfb19_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We've also been busy making stuff for the holidays. I'll have more on that after Christmas. But one thing Malachi was able to work on was a constellation board. This is a great project for any kid that likes to use hammers and nails. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6554416605/" title="fall2011 299 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 299" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6554416605_c1fa0d2b88_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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He picked out his favorite constellations, I drew them on the board with a pencil after he painted it blue, and then he nailed all the stars. After that, I strung it together. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6554423731/" title="fall2011 326 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 326" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6554423731_77bf867a21_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Amelia plans to make one next, and they are also pretty neat gifts to make. You can purchase them on etsy for $65!! or you can make it yourself! <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6554430847/" title="fall2011 327 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 327" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6554430847_4771282485_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-66468725503897102492011-12-07T15:01:00.001-08:002011-12-07T15:11:53.207-08:00big boySomeone very important in our home turned three a few weeks ago. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6473884017/" title="fall2011 257 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 257" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6473884017_8450c20196_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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His turning three was talked up by his brother and sister for weeks. He knew that for some reason it was a BIG deal to have a birthday. He began to inform, and still reminds me, that he is not the baby anymore. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6473896309/" title="fall2011 275 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 275" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6473896309_dc34ff31bf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I tried hard to get a decent birthday picture of this little boy but failed. He enjoys being silly too much. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6473936111/" title="fall2011 290 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 290" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6473936111_009d47cd62_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6473927687/" title="fall2011 289 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 289" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/6473927687_18746649af_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<aling="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6473920593/" title="fall2011 288 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 288" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6473920593_9c4e10ab51_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6473905753/" title="fall2011 277 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 277" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6473905753_95b7844ae1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-32214148991885160272011-11-17T14:19:00.001-08:002011-11-17T16:12:54.349-08:00stone soup and pilgrimsHave you heard the story of the stone soup at the first thanksgiving? It's about the Native Americans and Pilgrims sharing ingredients with each other so that they don't have to flavor their soup with just stones. Well this is a little play set that we made to go along with that story. The idea came from the last issue of Rhythm of the Home. The kids have a ton of fun playing with it and acting out that first Thanksgiving. These little peg dolls might not be historically accurate but that's okay. It's always nice when the kids love the toys we make together, especially ones that are so cheap to make. Next is actually making stone soup to eat. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6355237733/" title="fall2011 246 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 246" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6051/6355237733_3638ca7218_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6355220261/" title="fall2011 249 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 249" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6109/6355220261_9ed976d53c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Another Thanksgiving activity we ventured on was making corn husk dolls. Not just any corn husk dolls, but fancy ones. We wanted to make pilgrims for the holiday to decorate with. It's nearly impossible to find instructions on how to make these. You can find tons of instructions on the very primitive corn husk dolls, but that's not what we were looking for. Finally I found a YouTube video of a lady that filmed some ladies in Mexico that make them. So, we just adapted the Mexican version to a pilgrim version. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6355249317/" title="fall2011 254 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 254" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6231/6355249317_f6eeb76efb_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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I think it would be fun to make a tradition of making this every year to give out to neighbors along with a basket of pumpkin butter and scones, or a pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6355260599/" title="fall2011 252 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 252" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6113/6355260599_efb1a466fd_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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</div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-79849811024240104812011-11-14T10:28:00.000-08:002011-11-15T15:35:57.341-08:00These are a few of the autumn activities that I did with the kids. October was an extremely full month. Corn maze fun <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218032073/" title="fall2011 028 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 028" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6036/6218032073_2f62751eeb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218567470/" title="fall2011 031 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 031" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6225/6218567470_5a3a556df6_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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Hay ride <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218588288/" title="fall2011 035 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 035" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6236/6218588288_875bf2e2a1_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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The streets of NYC <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218499976/" title="fall2011 005 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 005" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6050/6218499976_e70b52e1f7_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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Pumpkin patch <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6310444068/" title="fall2011 154 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 154" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6037/6310444068_572f6640b4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Lots of apple picking! <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6241605544/" title="fall2011 156 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 156" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6215/6241605544_940dbb00a9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6241584538/" title="fall2011 162 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 162" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6095/6241584538_beaeede49c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And with all those apples I used a mandolin slicer to slice those apples really thin. You put them in the oven and they crisp up real fast. They're like eating really tasty, thin, potato chips. They were really really good. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6344764006/" title="fall2011 192 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 192" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6034/6344764006_ac9e7f7373_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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And, oh yeah, the freak snow storm at Halloween <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6344023859/" title="fall2011 228 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 228" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6039/6344023859_2eb9f9cb16_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-27271012149997349582011-11-04T06:26:00.001-07:002011-11-04T06:40:03.314-07:00A visit to Sleepy HollowIn early October we took the kids to visit Sleepy Hollow. I couldn't live so close and not go around Halloween. We first went to visit the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. It was such a beautiful place. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6309907883/" title="fall2011 083 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 083" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6050/6309907883_d8fbefbf18_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>,/div> <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6310422220/" title="fall2011 069 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 069" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6234/6310422220_f860d9288f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We went into the Old Dutch Church, which is where Ichabod Crane was trying to get to when the Headless Horseman was chasing him. They still use it for the Christmas season. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6309898103/" title="fall2011 060 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 060" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6044/6309898103_e82e7469e1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We walked around the cemetery which is where Washington Irving got many of the names used in the Legend of Sleepy Hollow. And we had to visit Mr. Irving's grave as well! <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6310432326/" title="fall2011 092 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 092" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6043/6310432326_8d0c371fff_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And the famous Sleepy Hollow bridge which is a reconstruction of the real one. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6309875625/" title="fall2011 101 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 101" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6034/6309875625_5a9e2e1d3d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Most of the Halloween activities there are said to be too scary for children. But, one thing we could go to was the Blaze. It is a tour of 4,000 carved pumpkins at an old Manor. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6309914421/" title="fall2011 117 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 117" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6059/6309914421_6aa2f89b79_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6310440672/" title="fall2011 151 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 151" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6038/6310440672_054f30255b_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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</div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-45510983840308197332011-10-17T08:58:00.000-07:002011-10-17T08:58:20.357-07:00Mock farmhouse tableSo I always have these fantastical (that's a fun word to say) ideas. I've always wanted an antique farmhouse table but I've never wanted to pay the price for one. So my fantastical idea ( as Justin rolls his eyes) was to build one. I thought to myself, 'hey we already have a table, lets just pull the top off, and put a new top on!' Lucky for me I have a husband that goes along with these ideas even though he's muttering under his breath the whole time. So off to Lowe's we went and we purchased four 2x10 boards. Plus supporting beams for underneath. What helped a lot, because my way of putting things together isn't always the sturdiest way, Justin was able to find a post about another lady that had the same idea, and so we were able to follow her instructions. See, I'm not the only one with fantastical ideas! <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218118489/" title="fall2011 049 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 049" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6168/6218118489_dcc894d62d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218653092/" title="fall2011 052 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 052" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6053/6218653092_dc3a5fa578_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I think it turned out wonderfully well, even though it is one heavy sucker. I hope to one day have my own farm house kitchen that is big enough to put the table right in the middle for extra cooking space. So, now I can enjoy my own farmhouse table, one that we put together ourselves (well mostly Justin put together!) and was waaaaaay cheaper.Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-68050816157643584992011-10-07T09:32:00.000-07:002011-10-07T09:33:35.589-07:00Food PrepFall has hit and the air is crisp. It seems that at every turn there is an apple orchard. With the apple abundance I've been making apple butter in the crock pot. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218537370/" title="fall2011 021 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 021" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6156/6218537370_4e13a0de8c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I love apple butter! Because I made it myself, I was able to sweeten it only with a little bit of honey. I will use this apple butter in place of jelly for PB and J. The sugar intake is drastically reduced this way. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218113613/" title="fall2011 048 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 048" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6049/6218113613_37acf7cdb7_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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I also came across the idea online about freezing individual soups for the winter. I happen to be making a bunch of chicken stock and thought I would continue and make a big batch of chicken noodle soup. I have my own little noodle makers! <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218006827/" title="fall2011 016 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 016" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6231/6218006827_0dc5e135f8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And so I filled these little half pint jars and stuck them in the freezer. Now, these can be taken out and popped in the microwave for individual jars of homemade warm soup for the cold months ahead. They will be great for snacks, or after playing in the snow, to take to work, or on a sick, sniffling day. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6218109359/" title="fall2011 047 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="fall2011 047" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6035/6218109359_bab27294d4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-43302409643188345852011-09-16T11:10:00.000-07:002011-09-16T11:10:54.668-07:00My little knittersThe kids have been asking for awhile to learn how to knit. I've been putting it off because it seemed to be a task for more patience than I can muster at this point in their lives. But, then someone gave me a bunch of those round knitting looms--- and I thought aha! So the knitting began. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6153021687/" title="summer2011 183 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 183" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6183/6153021687_dcb2aaa497_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Hats, hats, they wanted to make hats. Amelia made one for her and one for Elijah. <align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6153030069/" title="summer2011 195 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 195" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6153030069_58aa579250_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And oh man are they proud of their hats! 'Mama! I'm actually knitting something!' they would proclaim in excitment.
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6153015331/" title="summer2011 297 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 297" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6159/6153015331_3284333510_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6153555220/" title="summer2011 288 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 288" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6081/6153555220_3f5e0ab800_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Next . . . scarves! Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-58492213414506350242011-09-07T11:47:00.000-07:002011-09-23T06:13:26.798-07:00Home for a bitI got to go home for a few days. It's the first visit to Virginia since we moved to New York. It was brief but very enjoyable and I'm glad we got to go. This was the second year we've canned peaches on Labor Day for the year. There's a peach farm not far from my mom's house. So here a some photos from our weekend. Just enjoying a good ol' Virginia visit.
<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121120627/" title="summer2011 198 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 198" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6121120627_a6cdb30c92_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121123323/" title="summer2011 200 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 200" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6089/6121123323_706fc1fb98_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121675384/" title="summer2011 207 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 207" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6121675384_3bc258f499_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121191369/" title="summer2011 243 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 243" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6067/6121191369_58c408d493_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121173701/" title="summer2011 232 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 232" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6121173701_92c9d02e92_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121702960/" title="summer2011 226 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 226" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6121702960_ed3e89603b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121156071/" title="summer2011 223 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 223" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6121156071_2fcec92057_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121138115/" title="summer2011 210 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 210" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6121138115_11237bf731_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121162203/" title="summer2011 227 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 227" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6197/6121162203_9732888ec8_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121724356/" title="summer2011 238 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 238" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6202/6121724356_d5f5e655c2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/6121720286/" title="summer2011 235 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 235" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6121720286_1ccc566104_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-33878289629265097532011-08-01T13:11:00.000-07:002011-08-02T03:51:24.099-07:00Mulberries and peanutsWe have three mulberry trees about 80 feet tall in our yard. Mulberry trees produce a lot of berries and they can produce for centuries. This house was built in 1720 and so it's just shy of 300 years old. I can only imagine all of the families that have enjoyed the berries from these trees.<br />
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<div align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/5999045010/" title="spring2011 105 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="spring2011 105" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6141/5999045010_956a737a59_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
We can only to get at about 1/3 of the berries but that was still enough to make a good batch of jam made with a lot less sugar so you can actually taste the fruit.<br />
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<div align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/5999051728/" title="spring2011 107 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="spring2011 107" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/5999051728_bfe13a8d28_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I really try to help the kids to think about making something before buying it. We made jam together and then I thought we would make peanut butter. This way they can see it's really quite easy to make things. A little bit of knowledge will really help with confidence in being less reliant on the big companies for food. Plus I want them to be aware of exactly what's in their food.<br />
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<div align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/5998508675/" title="summer2011 179 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 179" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6149/5998508675_06f3e78f5c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
We put a bunch of peanuts in the food processor with extra virgin olive oil, salt, and bit of honey. This can be done with almonds as well, or any nut for that matter.<br />
<div align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/5999057388/" title="summer2011 180 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 180" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6135/5999057388_fca4705a58_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65941539@N08/5999058818/" title="summer2011 181 by lauriefreeman, on Flickr"><img alt="summer2011 181" height="480" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6136/5999058818_04483b63e4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
With the homemade bread it becomes a simple, healthy, independent lunch.Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-70489587700117593032011-07-01T05:41:00.000-07:002013-05-30T05:57:40.284-07:00summer greatnessWe've been blessed to be able to live on a organic biodynamic farm. That means that they don't do any spraying at all--not even commercial "organic" sprays. And they only fertilize with manure. So, the vegetables are as natural as you can get them. Most of their veggies go to local restaurants and to their local CSA subscribers, but they also pass on baskets loaded with veggies to us! It has been a bit of challenge to figure out how to use some of the stuff, or even to figure out what some of it is. Luckily my kids don't mind eating vegetables, and it has been fun to learn new recipes, and to try new things.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJNeqBLzDq2gKs3bIhEU-dAoMMKUmgK3zng8GNkn8gE8dvKe6VEanLeO53Ip-BH8HPmJM9SDHti0wh7lAJXTWFzLu0GMOj9ipWRStDnH_bmQT3RWXoUxazUzeB8-AwF9bEYExadyu4sd2/s1600/summer2011+010.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624364142291044818" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJNeqBLzDq2gKs3bIhEU-dAoMMKUmgK3zng8GNkn8gE8dvKe6VEanLeO53Ip-BH8HPmJM9SDHti0wh7lAJXTWFzLu0GMOj9ipWRStDnH_bmQT3RWXoUxazUzeB8-AwF9bEYExadyu4sd2/s400/summer2011+010.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a> So, I thought I would share a little summertime recipe that kids love---or my kids anyway. I've been making spinach popsicles for years now. These are requested just about every day during the hot summer months.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAW9PS16J-Z5x26-teROigIHeP4rXwS672aP7M74Ez3dKUH_8cW9k_Q4l4ZLGAvJBePeIjuhIk1eqiHQlK9hGwRw_Ko3AsffN76EyvovUwyvhjbKWeb0j0y-nWW0v9XLWzooV44HTOVKv2/s1600/summer2011+001.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624364140192159138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAW9PS16J-Z5x26-teROigIHeP4rXwS672aP7M74Ez3dKUH_8cW9k_Q4l4ZLGAvJBePeIjuhIk1eqiHQlK9hGwRw_Ko3AsffN76EyvovUwyvhjbKWeb0j0y-nWW0v9XLWzooV44HTOVKv2/s400/summer2011+001.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a> Again I don't like to buy things at a store when I can make them, so that I control what goes in them. Spinach Popsicle Recipe</div>
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a few tablespoons of orange juice concentrate (or fresh squeezed lemon juice which is super good for you, but the OJ does add sweetness to it)</div>
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around 4-5 tablespoons of water --or just OJ if you have it already made</div>
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1 banana</div>
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about a third to a half a cup of yogurt (I use plain or vanilla)---not necessary but I add for the probiotics. Or you can use homemade kefir which is what I prefer.</div>
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2 big heaping handfuls of fresh spinach (you can also put avocado in instead of spinach if you want)</div>
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honey</div>
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add all this to a blender---I just usually eyeball how much stuff I put in and don't measure anything out. Blend everything up. Blend the honey in after the rest is blended testing for sweetness. You shouldn't have to add too much honey. Put into the molds and freeze. You might have to adjust the recipe to fit the type of molds you have. We have little rocket molds and there is often a bit left over that I just drink. If there isn't enough you can just add a bit more water--or better the whey from the yogurt for extra protein. These ingredients are items I always have on my shopping list, so I always have the stuff on hand to make.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnZlcEcQH6JI3prURLDy-dd_3XBOnnS0ekVpwXG_x_FBEMf6tqYDdPpGGCCmqbwutTLoqxgnzinXw-470AqZ0DNdY7ey3cteN8WUoHMlBsR9tRnA8jVhldyYTvitjPPjuplS34-rDnVV7/s1600/summer2011+006.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624364133762367442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnZlcEcQH6JI3prURLDy-dd_3XBOnnS0ekVpwXG_x_FBEMf6tqYDdPpGGCCmqbwutTLoqxgnzinXw-470AqZ0DNdY7ey3cteN8WUoHMlBsR9tRnA8jVhldyYTvitjPPjuplS34-rDnVV7/s400/summer2011+006.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a> And I thought I would share a dish detergent recipe with you. This is natural and cheap, and simple!! </div>
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Dishwasher Detergent Recipe</div>
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1 cup of borax</div>
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1 cup of washing soda (again I buy mine online at <a href="http://www.alice.com/">www.alice.com</a>. You have to buy six boxes at a time but it's cheap and there's no shipping. They will ask you when you want it delivered again and I always put that I don't know so that I can order some more whenever I run out and not on some schedule.) <br />
*Wal-Mart now carries washing soda<br />
1/4 c of Epsom salt</div>
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2 packs of lemonade mix (without the sugar.) This is a cheap way to get the citric acid that is needed with hard water. </div>
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Mix all of these together well, and you should only need about 1 T per load.<br />
Now I'm going to tell you a BIG secret. Most people don't have success with homemade detergent because it leaves a white film on the dishes. The advice is to put white vinegar in the rinse compartment of the dishwasher, but this doesn't work. Here is the secret. You put a few small splashes of vinegar directly in the bottom of the dishwasher, underneath the bottom rack. I don't know how or why this works, I just know it does. This also works if you use regular commercial detergent but you have really hard water, and it leaves a film on your dishes. The vinegar in the bottom makes it crystal clear. You don't need to waste money on commercial chemicals just use vinegar! <br />
*if you still have issues with film on dishes try putting ONLY a few drops of dish soap (the kind you hand wash dishes with) or Dr. Bronners castile soap on top of the 1T of detergent in the soap dispenser.</div>
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Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-16166705434303385482011-06-21T09:27:00.000-07:002011-06-21T09:54:23.002-07:00Malachi turns sevenMy oldest turned seven. SEVEN! It's hard to believe I have a seven year old. One of Malachi's obsessions of the past year has been WWII, especially the planes. He makes planes constantly and hangs them from the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">ceilings</span> all over the house. He insists they add and completely blend in with the home decor.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDe1q5yNMLcawGcgjZ0qWhtcG-PY4o7Un8_gAN5TchwDn2qE0nEJEYtMU40U9HXumixXZWXY3-OGDa9kZSncKzYGNQJ067MvmqP94PX8dVl2IPuk7bze0hms1aThCvpaZFhqIuOPvUO63F/s1600/spring2011+118.jpg1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620711347283603922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDe1q5yNMLcawGcgjZ0qWhtcG-PY4o7Un8_gAN5TchwDn2qE0nEJEYtMU40U9HXumixXZWXY3-OGDa9kZSncKzYGNQJ067MvmqP94PX8dVl2IPuk7bze0hms1aThCvpaZFhqIuOPvUO63F/s400/spring2011+118.jpg1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0SDvxp9ayaDYDomEYeEGhy2DnfUM4MR3HUyWW0gvwjs3uPd6jri6VZzBXbDS7C6o_Lb7MFs9Fk6JmjXsfqodfd1q4oOT_-2QdpE63ev2cOyMPklldn_1agx6XdXQ_GuBVozBWR58NPdwq/s1600/spring2011+122.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620711340303889042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0SDvxp9ayaDYDomEYeEGhy2DnfUM4MR3HUyWW0gvwjs3uPd6jri6VZzBXbDS7C6o_Lb7MFs9Fk6JmjXsfqodfd1q4oOT_-2QdpE63ev2cOyMPklldn_1agx6XdXQ_GuBVozBWR58NPdwq/s400/spring2011+122.jpg" /></a> I am notorious for experimenting with birthday cakes. This year it was the frosting. I used coconut cream (the cream part in the canned coconut milk) instead of butter or shortening for the frosting. I added a bit of flour to thicken and powdered sugar to taste. I've heard you can use honey but I thought that would make it too runny. You can add cocoa powder to it for chocolate but that isn't what Malachi wanted. I didn't add any flavoring to it so it had a strong coconut flavor to it. Which I don't mind, because I love coconut. Anyway it turned out fairly well. Not too sweet. And not full of all the junk that is in regular frosting. You won't get a pretty cake out of it, but it's fine for just a family cake.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivRoz-_yk-YbAJA5uXBIWheCglxNssJTTy6h-ioWA0LD7giFgJqL6snayq7PNKH8cAxqKobrOBfti5Dm6aDGvR5stBv5mpGRx4xQ5zR_LYXOP8nWTeq59Vd4MmkmCVG3BRUtE5Ao4PShMT/s1600/spring2011+124.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620711337097000274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivRoz-_yk-YbAJA5uXBIWheCglxNssJTTy6h-ioWA0LD7giFgJqL6snayq7PNKH8cAxqKobrOBfti5Dm6aDGvR5stBv5mpGRx4xQ5zR_LYXOP8nWTeq59Vd4MmkmCVG3BRUtE5Ao4PShMT/s400/spring2011+124.jpg" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div>Another obsession of Malachi's is the Calvin and Hobbes comics. He reads them constantly! He follows me around the house all day reading them to me as I'm trying to get things done. Probably not the best reading material for a little boy that already tends towards the mischievous side, but at least he's reading. I like making something for the kids on their birthdays and a Hobbes had been requested. So I attempted a Hobbes. I'm far from an expert in the Hobbes making department, but a certain seven year old is thrilled with him.<br /></div><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuin0Oh_2ivTmsJp71o-VuMLNlp_YdLj1DI5ywJ7OIXQCoxyjItPu8IgWYlQqzFEQWfqp5VK74lV4r60MqomSVwRBNlmJAdZIJVd8G8o9Eyhz5DVQPT0YyQ3TLerUBLCBJW6uihdXkZqM/s1600/spring2011+136.jpg1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 228px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620711333009209010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuin0Oh_2ivTmsJp71o-VuMLNlp_YdLj1DI5ywJ7OIXQCoxyjItPu8IgWYlQqzFEQWfqp5VK74lV4r60MqomSVwRBNlmJAdZIJVd8G8o9Eyhz5DVQPT0YyQ3TLerUBLCBJW6uihdXkZqM/s400/spring2011+136.jpg1.jpg" /></a><br />Out plotting something mischievous I'm sure!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhty4sNrzq-wo1DQfClntt0h1qU90yy1pPyVUfX9R92_2UPq5zmIQDwgrUgASe3P5tvxCzsp-xGtyM2oHNfkgxZDDhjIj5aT3_Z6eCwj-AhcLt_3-pX4kbbACckGfjfM0xPvhXRnCuk-XX7/s1600/spring2011+133.jpg1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620711330897436546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhty4sNrzq-wo1DQfClntt0h1qU90yy1pPyVUfX9R92_2UPq5zmIQDwgrUgASe3P5tvxCzsp-xGtyM2oHNfkgxZDDhjIj5aT3_Z6eCwj-AhcLt_3-pX4kbbACckGfjfM0xPvhXRnCuk-XX7/s400/spring2011+133.jpg1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-79949708865703005972011-06-08T10:16:00.000-07:002011-06-29T12:19:53.502-07:00New LovesSometimes I make discoveries that I'm glad I no longer have to live without. It's these discoveries that make everyday life just a little more pleasing. These are very simple discoveries and that's what I love about them. The first is avocado ice cream. The original recipe came from Mary Jane's Farm, but like with everything, I tinkered and experimented with it until I was completely satisfied. So, here is the recipe for those of you that would like a small adventure.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWjQAggXStvDt5X0dj_P2emT199yaEu1TXl34k6_Kvzwfly5PLPck8NMQ7gL0n6EC5g0xM-y5jMyiQo13dIHNMnh3CAO1Hh-pw5kluXPlSg2GiLPlVqKa7qfpdRbeUqUUzD88d-BEVvU9/s1600/spring2011+084.jpgnew.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615899470126623298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWjQAggXStvDt5X0dj_P2emT199yaEu1TXl34k6_Kvzwfly5PLPck8NMQ7gL0n6EC5g0xM-y5jMyiQo13dIHNMnh3CAO1Hh-pw5kluXPlSg2GiLPlVqKa7qfpdRbeUqUUzD88d-BEVvU9/s400/spring2011+084.jpgnew.jpg" /></a> Avocado Ice Cream<br />1 ripe avocado<br />the juice of two lemons<br />1 cup of half and half (try to find a natural brand that doesn't have anything added to it)<br />2/3 cup of pure honey ---this was a bit sweet so next time I will start with 1/3 cup and then add until it's sweet enough<br />1t-1T of poppy seeds<br />put everything in the blender and mix well. Pour into a small container and freeze.<br />that's it! I like to top it with fresh mango. Veggies for dessert--you can't beat that! The kids love it. A banana in place of the avocado would probably also work if you want to switch it up---they have a similar consistency. Happy experimenting!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseJT0OvYXipyg9438REUz_aC61YiRGQdt7xBuL331X8kFpTBfrviU16wYWcxjpszP7DQScQVnY3Dw2fj97evaVImk2Rxbm6fifkjacZRcb9HVrKlqzAWhE4H2Gdb5_0TOmHbH1D2j2Qbi/s1600/spring2011+081.jpgnew.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615899457590794722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseJT0OvYXipyg9438REUz_aC61YiRGQdt7xBuL331X8kFpTBfrviU16wYWcxjpszP7DQScQVnY3Dw2fj97evaVImk2Rxbm6fifkjacZRcb9HVrKlqzAWhE4H2Gdb5_0TOmHbH1D2j2Qbi/s400/spring2011+081.jpgnew.jpg" /></a><br />The second is homemade hand soap. I like to make everything I can so that I know exactly what's in it. And I like simple, simple, simple recipes! And this one is.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdysszxxRpD4igT6FtoFgpP37Ufv3LvzIYs9k4JkGkrHrOFft6Mn5kf-Lpbuli7ma_OnaHI2cqIRtC3EGoo7zuJO6lB9j05uDnNDe3Q-m8jp1HoqQNxeKr0djYvqkDvj2TxbY_RB3S3DE/s1600/spring2011+089.jpgnew.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615899452798648258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdysszxxRpD4igT6FtoFgpP37Ufv3LvzIYs9k4JkGkrHrOFft6Mn5kf-Lpbuli7ma_OnaHI2cqIRtC3EGoo7zuJO6lB9j05uDnNDe3Q-m8jp1HoqQNxeKr0djYvqkDvj2TxbY_RB3S3DE/s400/spring2011+089.jpgnew.jpg" /></a> Handmade Soap recipe</div><br /><br /><br /><div>reuse old foaming bottles or buy a few</div><br /><br /><br /><div>fill 3/4 with water--always add water first</div><br /><br /><br /><div>2-3 T of pure liquid castile soap</div><br /><br /><br /><div>and you're done! you can buy liquid castile soap at health food stores or even some higher end grocery stores. The most common brand is Dr. Bronner's. So simple, quick, natural, and cheap! </div>this also can be used as a face wash, body wash, for dishes, etc.<br /><br /><br /><div>LOVE it!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-58456281975142161682011-04-27T13:48:00.000-07:002011-05-10T12:44:05.540-07:00Phew the snow is goneIt is finally warm in our part of the country. We were beginning to think it was winter all year here. The kids playing outside all day are here again. And the house stays so much cleaner!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS1rffE2lGozpe38N-eD8lyGdQQXQP3DeIWRFHi_sbyYoDvoQK27yQTYwhaTR8zRWHgnF6yZSB6LsTnOjrLOmoGrEaXWnUxZrx3vARJkqpVZ4d7ie8BCJpWdmlU67d6pGHUCm0zp76rna0/s1600/spring2011+014.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600369639853462114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS1rffE2lGozpe38N-eD8lyGdQQXQP3DeIWRFHi_sbyYoDvoQK27yQTYwhaTR8zRWHgnF6yZSB6LsTnOjrLOmoGrEaXWnUxZrx3vARJkqpVZ4d7ie8BCJpWdmlU67d6pGHUCm0zp76rna0/s400/spring2011+014.jpg" /></a> Easter came and went. That famous bunny filled baskets with sewing kits, woodworking kits, little notebooks, and a little candy.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2K2A6xA53WPI8xQxrlmYN4tn3akY70VKXUWbvNs1QcXmUjfvOm8PHChMLTAFqanSxNtb9z2bUN32M5GDFwmSATGEiPyuiUL7ieIlBjUkVpePEgKluKg90FbXI0wxMYkuVXYJNpFQPxXD/s1600/spring2011+015.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600369634685649442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2K2A6xA53WPI8xQxrlmYN4tn3akY70VKXUWbvNs1QcXmUjfvOm8PHChMLTAFqanSxNtb9z2bUN32M5GDFwmSATGEiPyuiUL7ieIlBjUkVpePEgKluKg90FbXI0wxMYkuVXYJNpFQPxXD/s400/spring2011+015.jpg" /></a><br />During the winter months both Malachi and Amelia managed to teach themselves how to ride a bike. They would go out to play and the next thing I knew they would come running in excited that they figured out how to ride a bike.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHZJerr3kjAMienEDig2AsrOOtNJmM3RB9ZAXicIgB4chjmgRrCj89asipU27Yv5CtUc3-reMgseZng44QdzcMOHeCPoBW0bWalAWF4p-GPXnwWYfeO_rRwjoUxsrYP-HgOQLX8XLHlcx/s1600/spring2011+034.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600369629026158434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHZJerr3kjAMienEDig2AsrOOtNJmM3RB9ZAXicIgB4chjmgRrCj89asipU27Yv5CtUc3-reMgseZng44QdzcMOHeCPoBW0bWalAWF4p-GPXnwWYfeO_rRwjoUxsrYP-HgOQLX8XLHlcx/s400/spring2011+034.jpg" /></a> And riding bikes they do . . . fast and furious . . . much of the day long.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-mAP8_zv62B7woo2-zxQKYxYs9MURg6bUXQhyJXjNOSfaAzAGgGTtwpGTiQFVXIva4xG4xS7PAjBTh78MuioD32efTn54XCuKulthU0IVpWxDKulMF7acfhX2e6qrJPR_AhyB7hHsHye6/s1600/spring2011+035.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600369622703383138" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-mAP8_zv62B7woo2-zxQKYxYs9MURg6bUXQhyJXjNOSfaAzAGgGTtwpGTiQFVXIva4xG4xS7PAjBTh78MuioD32efTn54XCuKulthU0IVpWxDKulMF7acfhX2e6qrJPR_AhyB7hHsHye6/s400/spring2011+035.jpg" /></a> Another fun thing about the spring are these two lovely ladies that have been added to our yard.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfanuhrbyM26hTdXz9FfxgvU1U5bNc8DJrqPBs9nz8uOfG-S6BFjzIVPY1l-p5A6QqCZ1FClqMHC6fF-ysP1gi0ObzG9l2hP_vqTNItBlFRo9SyibtjNqg6-0OiX19QDlC0Bar_dpoXoxh/s1600/spring2011+025.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600369612783260674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfanuhrbyM26hTdXz9FfxgvU1U5bNc8DJrqPBs9nz8uOfG-S6BFjzIVPY1l-p5A6QqCZ1FClqMHC6fF-ysP1gi0ObzG9l2hP_vqTNItBlFRo9SyibtjNqg6-0OiX19QDlC0Bar_dpoXoxh/s400/spring2011+025.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-3269336224631549452011-02-07T07:24:00.000-08:002011-02-07T07:36:41.064-08:00a christmas gift completedI've been dropping pretty big hints the past few years to Justin that he needed to learn how to make furniture. He would look at me like I was crazy. But I had confidence and so I kept dropping the hints. Finally . . . finally . . . he committed to making me something. For Christmas I was gifted with a bunch of wood with the promise of a storage cabinet. Well, it has happened! And man I am excited. Justin is much less excited because he knows a list of new items to be built will be handed to him. But oh isn't it beautiful!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvn9sJNc_hekx-KZ3E9pLorXe_6H5iY5KTYyOOrHBARI9MWO_rN60xDRIKxwsfAsTVKRdI-s_bwpTpoV3oCqPGlaXcXhyphenhyphenTpjh13gl2CfEreIrQ5YbEKNpwUT42lVTr21zVSq6W0qfCjXZ/s1600/winter2011+089.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570969550067909042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvn9sJNc_hekx-KZ3E9pLorXe_6H5iY5KTYyOOrHBARI9MWO_rN60xDRIKxwsfAsTVKRdI-s_bwpTpoV3oCqPGlaXcXhyphenhyphenTpjh13gl2CfEreIrQ5YbEKNpwUT42lVTr21zVSq6W0qfCjXZ/s400/winter2011+089.jpg" /></a> I painted it and added a few stencils and now it is ready to be filled.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeuS-FdNJ3RWf1EpY8m_fcC4f3zY4HJxSScxdDDvSNaBJT1xgSotz2JoW4WKd1qS2sUaLZq35GndI1rYedgb4H90GLq_N-AlCnvUYY8XvBo6l0gBo1VIQi42450wlp5ugUNBg9NKK1HKs/s1600/winter2011+090.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570969548739354850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeuS-FdNJ3RWf1EpY8m_fcC4f3zY4HJxSScxdDDvSNaBJT1xgSotz2JoW4WKd1qS2sUaLZq35GndI1rYedgb4H90GLq_N-AlCnvUYY8XvBo6l0gBo1VIQi42450wlp5ugUNBg9NKK1HKs/s400/winter2011+090.jpg" /></a><br />Shelves . . . glorious shelves. Storage . . . pretty storage!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOQOmKfgKoWahAepjyRzxehKi3UNxPku9ZqdcvK6mobbwpKe2RKY57adQJvbZ1HQqi5P5P1sQNVHJdOoDpbRJWQb4czJMXFSqn4JDVhfvayCVgYUVs8Ky4YJV_b2J_Lm_RbnUR-EpInHc/s1600/winter2011+094.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570969542897455570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOQOmKfgKoWahAepjyRzxehKi3UNxPku9ZqdcvK6mobbwpKe2RKY57adQJvbZ1HQqi5P5P1sQNVHJdOoDpbRJWQb4czJMXFSqn4JDVhfvayCVgYUVs8Ky4YJV_b2J_Lm_RbnUR-EpInHc/s400/winter2011+094.jpg" /></a> We only need about four more of these . . . . HA! I keep telling Justin it's a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">wonderful</span> skill to have, and a skill I want our boys (and Amelia if she chooses) to pick up through the years. I'll have to keep the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">pressure</span> and the nagging going strong!<br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-35299934939015994812011-01-27T06:32:00.000-08:002011-01-27T07:01:59.517-08:00Her art for the yearAmelia loves to draw. All the kids love to make things, but Amelia probably draws a few things each day. Well the drawings add up. For a long time I didn't know what to do with all of these creations. She would color or draw something, bring it to me with pride, I would exclaim how marvelous it was, and when she wasn't looking I would sneak it into the trash. I know that's horrible, but I can't stand all the papers lying around on the tables. So I found a pattern to solve my problems in the book A Handmade Home, by Amanda <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Soule</span>. In the book it's a pattern for a letter satchel, so I just enlarged it for an art satchel. I made these about a year ago. And from then on it has been wonderful. She will come to me with a drawing, I will praise her, and then tell her if she wants to keep it to put it into her art satchel. Into the art satchel everything goes, and it doesn't clutter up the home. I decided that on each birthday we will pull out the art for the year and display it, so we all can admire what they have done throughout the whole year. We will pick through the ones they want to keep forever, file them away in the attic, and have a cleaned out art satchel to start the next year of their life. Now I feel guilt free of slipping stuff into the trash.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlAQ77Td9GUyXVFKrwpREvIVjphjZasrLZG9yldSXSyh1_p1KHKNFysuHsaXn21IHP6BVliocr-m9G3pEWFfHUphflF9sfnaID0Q95iSSBnOcTy9E36rmW1sjg0pJQRS2TaMtn5wBvTeWo/s1600/winter2011+058.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566875421405118834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlAQ77Td9GUyXVFKrwpREvIVjphjZasrLZG9yldSXSyh1_p1KHKNFysuHsaXn21IHP6BVliocr-m9G3pEWFfHUphflF9sfnaID0Q95iSSBnOcTy9E36rmW1sjg0pJQRS2TaMtn5wBvTeWo/s400/winter2011+058.jpg" /></a> Malachi took it upon himself to decide which pieces should be presented on Amelia's big day.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LVWAzm15OPtUBWoCPei84AeCvOyVeG726oOAJcmS3a8ktfs2iKobmNbLNktazmRnvo2jfjqNWK43xagYwuC-BHrw3j5Xpq2O-ZzBDVrrORrunOxgfkwGW1I1MD9sU7wssaACKeFS6g1j/s1600/winter2011+046.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566875418679891650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LVWAzm15OPtUBWoCPei84AeCvOyVeG726oOAJcmS3a8ktfs2iKobmNbLNktazmRnvo2jfjqNWK43xagYwuC-BHrw3j5Xpq2O-ZzBDVrrORrunOxgfkwGW1I1MD9sU7wssaACKeFS6g1j/s400/winter2011+046.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXtJx2nAwl16nQQ64cbthMygNVVidfr6O-4ieOLRNMvSa2ID0tFvNETTX_em30Gk5heGWoHuqFjAkVqTDXV87udVM6McPHRUr9H6-STwVTieIf_eGaPDNaH1bxby0vAWRN4HJEG9X85Pd/s1600/winter2011+051.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566875408814696754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXtJx2nAwl16nQQ64cbthMygNVVidfr6O-4ieOLRNMvSa2ID0tFvNETTX_em30Gk5heGWoHuqFjAkVqTDXV87udVM6McPHRUr9H6-STwVTieIf_eGaPDNaH1bxby0vAWRN4HJEG9X85Pd/s400/winter2011+051.jpg" /></a><br />I LOVE that she loves to draw. And I love her art work. It makes me giggle every time.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXZfXe11Hnp1psMw8sKb-SWtANW1bydOUwU8ICLRDb5SHGMFcSrzJQ4aFWIw5-umMF6je1m1z6gRkZ7gur_bYCW7hwi6-vowBpXSzIA-rEjlmr1w2LCIcGqtD9HllcIr03aXJT7f5S160/s1600/winter2011+052.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566875402991386306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXZfXe11Hnp1psMw8sKb-SWtANW1bydOUwU8ICLRDb5SHGMFcSrzJQ4aFWIw5-umMF6je1m1z6gRkZ7gur_bYCW7hwi6-vowBpXSzIA-rEjlmr1w2LCIcGqtD9HllcIr03aXJT7f5S160/s400/winter2011+052.jpg" /></a><br />The art work of a four year old is something wonderful. And this newly five year old was more than delighted to share her masterpieces on her special day.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVxX7WyMuaKqUDev9ItdKhEnvgasmrKX6eZtXCTwsu5UUeJwBgSedcxNNisib1hSNBwIMTCfNPsInfv9Ij70OcyA54j4InMHaWMQ4oTw7omuTq4SVhO8oLgQw6o7b4YLZdQrRZEVWN01u/s1600/winter2011+050.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566875394419244562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVxX7WyMuaKqUDev9ItdKhEnvgasmrKX6eZtXCTwsu5UUeJwBgSedcxNNisib1hSNBwIMTCfNPsInfv9Ij70OcyA54j4InMHaWMQ4oTw7omuTq4SVhO8oLgQw6o7b4YLZdQrRZEVWN01u/s400/winter2011+050.jpg" /></a> I'm excited for the prospect of pulling these out to decorate her <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">sixteenth</span> birthday. She may hate me for it.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-3838036116095377872011-01-21T06:27:00.000-08:002011-01-21T06:40:00.260-08:00easy art for kidsThe kids love art projects, and this is a great one for little kids. Also it's something they can hang in their rooms and be proud of---and oh my, they are proud! I picked up some 18x24 canvas from A.C. Moore. This size canvas is normally seventeen dollars a piece, but in January they are on sale for 5.99. Then all you do is try your best to make a picture with painter's tape.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVnqg0am2yVDHHuQkJOmAiCRPu8OEuwULtDpDab6-uhOTAvD2j6JUCiXhr2h9ckeYoHV1FnBuG8sSDVFdy3AL2uQvLDKSKOnCQf-G4TbRR41OVTB3hEmfyc0OmmbvFxm3FDposDQGlGoa/s1600/winter2011+042.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564646347681038098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVnqg0am2yVDHHuQkJOmAiCRPu8OEuwULtDpDab6-uhOTAvD2j6JUCiXhr2h9ckeYoHV1FnBuG8sSDVFdy3AL2uQvLDKSKOnCQf-G4TbRR41OVTB3hEmfyc0OmmbvFxm3FDposDQGlGoa/s400/winter2011+042.jpg" /></a> Once they are done painting just peel off the tape to complete the picture.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStetuyZ04RmjL-P7mrPQUnT7i0EssLkDj3o7FFwbJegy3rAt0UKCEwUPIE08kAQN7GOxlLmgAwtuXHAgYEXAyMfFjyoniq5cZjIgHrgX9BKGO6HAWUTtI2qHxDpWnzz4YvA8CZLK8fA_7/s1600/winter2011+044.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564646335174457298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStetuyZ04RmjL-P7mrPQUnT7i0EssLkDj3o7FFwbJegy3rAt0UKCEwUPIE08kAQN7GOxlLmgAwtuXHAgYEXAyMfFjyoniq5cZjIgHrgX9BKGO6HAWUTtI2qHxDpWnzz4YvA8CZLK8fA_7/s400/winter2011+044.jpg" /></a><br />It's such easy wall art that they can do themselves.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirreJIhqnOCfdJQ3kVBbcBcvWxB98cLCp5ed1wzR3wDV126uJvudWAyTmqTA_Q49AAah7dxtFSC60kt08k8sTj45z0vxVrPc4nnXjGA7zi71OyZHvnu0nrXzxwOv_a1luCRJh5wpTYu3no/s1600/winter2011+045.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564646328832535970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirreJIhqnOCfdJQ3kVBbcBcvWxB98cLCp5ed1wzR3wDV126uJvudWAyTmqTA_Q49AAah7dxtFSC60kt08k8sTj45z0vxVrPc4nnXjGA7zi71OyZHvnu0nrXzxwOv_a1luCRJh5wpTYu3no/s400/winter2011+045.jpg" /></a> I had to guide Elijah quite a bit with his. He has one love right now and it's trains. I also had to persuade him to branch out from the color blue, which is the only color he even wants to talk about. This project is a bit old for a two year old, but he is at that age where he will NOT be left out of anything!!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLt95EDYCUcwzxrKIivM4pjl8ovxOPm8JorLUqgsi6GS40fbQ_DyYpFdAjAQWoticlg2WRV2Kx_Gmfk4KZw_94KWLsQWYfPwSjadQUbmBABI1xVOk49HJwpkh-5sBHDOhw1v06l2kfmFb/s1600/winter2011+043.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564646324598521410" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLt95EDYCUcwzxrKIivM4pjl8ovxOPm8JorLUqgsi6GS40fbQ_DyYpFdAjAQWoticlg2WRV2Kx_Gmfk4KZw_94KWLsQWYfPwSjadQUbmBABI1xVOk49HJwpkh-5sBHDOhw1v06l2kfmFb/s400/winter2011+043.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-17672583661566413962011-01-13T05:41:00.000-08:002011-01-13T06:16:28.402-08:00A few sewing projectsThrough the months I've made a few things that I haven't blogged about. I've decided to share a couple of those things I was able to make that we've gotten a lot of use out of. This is our first winter in a place that is actually really wintry. So far, we have quite enjoyed ourselves. I desperately want a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">woodstove</span> insert to put into the fireplace to make this cozy house even more cozy. But, those dreams will have to wait until the day we can own our own home. The kids have enjoyed the snow, making snow forts and sledding, and then venturing in for a cup of steaming blueberry tea with scones. After their outside time is their quiet time. This is when they go to the book corner for an hour and read or draw. A while ago I made reading pillows for them. Big ones where they could lay on and be comfortable on the floor. They have gotten a lot of use especially on these balmy winter days.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7loNznuN-aSkwVrc41j465OGeYqSFcku3LLYHQ98ftcAcPSEIN5WMxmrUfryCNu8_FYwt3-ldPRFBNJPUBWE1seoYaNIQPdAidKb2M9X8K0z7Ou-Ki6sQKbOa1Cf7L9BovM4JVDPHW3ww/s1600/winter2011+033.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561666201614557314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7loNznuN-aSkwVrc41j465OGeYqSFcku3LLYHQ98ftcAcPSEIN5WMxmrUfryCNu8_FYwt3-ldPRFBNJPUBWE1seoYaNIQPdAidKb2M9X8K0z7Ou-Ki6sQKbOa1Cf7L9BovM4JVDPHW3ww/s400/winter2011+033.jpg" /></a> I realized later that I should have made three. I guess another is in order.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawBuCrq7jBc7xyQRIrO7bOKt5_Mxuao90eeMBEmmMv_aCk6ht7a68N9NiPaYQULo996Lurt2rTh4bZ7CKOa-JuGqa789GKQxnjzWRQfAcNkG6mOLYniCaiyZcUJgJPUVG4RqeRAICpdBz/s1600/winter2011+034.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561666195397786802" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawBuCrq7jBc7xyQRIrO7bOKt5_Mxuao90eeMBEmmMv_aCk6ht7a68N9NiPaYQULo996Lurt2rTh4bZ7CKOa-JuGqa789GKQxnjzWRQfAcNkG6mOLYniCaiyZcUJgJPUVG4RqeRAICpdBz/s400/winter2011+034.jpg" /></a> Another thing I'm really glad I made are these bowl covers. With kids after meals there is always something left over. I got tired of constantly using plastic wrap or bags, or plastic <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">tupperware</span> to store things in. I do have vintage glass refigerator containers, which was the norm before tupperware was invinted. But sometimes it's just easier to put a cover on things. These bowl or plate covers are wonderful. I made a couple in small, medium, and large. They have rip stop material on the inside and are washable. I love them because they are reusable, so there's no waste, and plus when you're bringing a dish to parties they're much prettier than plastic wrap or aluminum foil!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xOozmKrrrtUiGdJwlcBjmFVdAqp6ZoDAxi2iWnBzDIFdcftYD6c41Ju5GwEUWSu4pQFjy_nWrihxPIzoKRiEC0hcQi6MR0rD_ri7Z5JcrrKj0QElCldhtqePes2nxWSCuEENEvFPXH6Y/s1600/winter2011+041.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561666191950540850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xOozmKrrrtUiGdJwlcBjmFVdAqp6ZoDAxi2iWnBzDIFdcftYD6c41Ju5GwEUWSu4pQFjy_nWrihxPIzoKRiEC0hcQi6MR0rD_ri7Z5JcrrKj0QElCldhtqePes2nxWSCuEENEvFPXH6Y/s400/winter2011+041.jpg" /></a><br />Lastly, I finally made something just for me. A bag that I can pile books in or knitting, or whatever I want when I'm going out. I love the material, which I ordered from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Fabricworm</span>, because I haven't found a decent fabric store around here yet.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2l9_XgRS5BN5tRskmNI9FUFFHHZi_98DEY8ZH03sphbvmGMtnuX9btlIa0FbMaOZwLuIebE802gfRAhMlDThz2Ghp6NO-FXuvo3zna2H21vdUeFRadfqRFdGffJ8OC1Uhybb1wUpaauvM/s1600/winter2011+038.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561666188272569122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2l9_XgRS5BN5tRskmNI9FUFFHHZi_98DEY8ZH03sphbvmGMtnuX9btlIa0FbMaOZwLuIebE802gfRAhMlDThz2Ghp6NO-FXuvo3zna2H21vdUeFRadfqRFdGffJ8OC1Uhybb1wUpaauvM/s400/winter2011+038.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-47909650026345047552010-12-27T08:42:00.001-08:002010-12-27T08:50:22.268-08:00finallyFinally prayers have been answered . . . . many, many prayers on behalf of some of the little folks around here.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIB018RpQbMMHQgmetvTDCFDPZXTTcoNuQaAG03nQB1VveqdBFVNQV7R50msRCfy1GTmEPiLgdolau9PU-SAwgLv5lDmzFEC7GYqvkh_86QlR_GevtN1neJzQoUr2cWuWt-RverVcEIGep/s1600/fall2010+301.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555404641110319218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIB018RpQbMMHQgmetvTDCFDPZXTTcoNuQaAG03nQB1VveqdBFVNQV7R50msRCfy1GTmEPiLgdolau9PU-SAwgLv5lDmzFEC7GYqvkh_86QlR_GevtN1neJzQoUr2cWuWt-RverVcEIGep/s400/fall2010+301.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyCFppA3K2a15zgCo9-1TAL8PbDyl68GjUfV-pcZPoA7FBs6klAjdgg9-5gpDYi2KlC-yqwMWwV6EhzWggdhfe8ZBqh2uHQfgGoFiSdR24jQ05PS9N28z41F9x2Wj_E50Jiu3mQ2rc2e-/s1600/fall2010+302.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555404638412844226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyCFppA3K2a15zgCo9-1TAL8PbDyl68GjUfV-pcZPoA7FBs6klAjdgg9-5gpDYi2KlC-yqwMWwV6EhzWggdhfe8ZBqh2uHQfgGoFiSdR24jQ05PS9N28z41F9x2Wj_E50Jiu3mQ2rc2e-/s400/fall2010+302.jpg" /></a> The sleds got to be used for real this time<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJCaSlWKARXp4ID5Q-aNBmQ3gsYMrNEmafWakleTERpMENWT6GZ74l855X0mk3da5eosJ7YzTH1WZLzL0OjWggDlppK22WpcmgEG0vgyJ9IUztIzTI50Ag-oqEpwe1UANB9VQbDvBBylM-/s1600/fall2010+292.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555404634659744690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJCaSlWKARXp4ID5Q-aNBmQ3gsYMrNEmafWakleTERpMENWT6GZ74l855X0mk3da5eosJ7YzTH1WZLzL0OjWggDlppK22WpcmgEG0vgyJ9IUztIzTI50Ag-oqEpwe1UANB9VQbDvBBylM-/s400/fall2010+292.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnFEMTz4SBnMWWgmwujPMeCn1glRd1j3WheiP0A3xr4WVliB4fZ23ox6OLB4hF6uXc9QoMTeFTeztfUMTfpTwREFx5ozqN_WMnL6GfneRiDH4S_Q4cO-A6aMHAeCz_IEi29sJWVA5sEtzk/s1600/fall2010+296.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555404634094970866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnFEMTz4SBnMWWgmwujPMeCn1glRd1j3WheiP0A3xr4WVliB4fZ23ox6OLB4hF6uXc9QoMTeFTeztfUMTfpTwREFx5ozqN_WMnL6GfneRiDH4S_Q4cO-A6aMHAeCz_IEi29sJWVA5sEtzk/s400/fall2010+296.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wPMomQb6VREnUO524CJzAa2-sR-oK3yDG8siO7bpfLLSZd6ApejhqehW9hbWMQpyJwAj0PG3AIgJ_NdcOS_MTTQh9z3jKFZ56MedJ2BUxXM87sIcWSiVv67tpzM2nDXf0ZPJDrRc9YId/s1600/fall2010+294.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555404628252556834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wPMomQb6VREnUO524CJzAa2-sR-oK3yDG8siO7bpfLLSZd6ApejhqehW9hbWMQpyJwAj0PG3AIgJ_NdcOS_MTTQh9z3jKFZ56MedJ2BUxXM87sIcWSiVv67tpzM2nDXf0ZPJDrRc9YId/s400/fall2010+294.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8188217835420225260.post-87067106872358132182010-12-17T10:45:00.000-08:002010-12-17T10:52:45.570-08:00where's the snow?The kids ask me everyday if it's going to snow. We've gotten plenty of snowflakes but no real snow. When I told Malachi it has snowed in North Carolina three times already he started to cry. I keep telling them that technically winter hasn't even started yet. They've been wearing their <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">snow pants</span> and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">snow boots</span> for weeks. And now they have begun to just go out and sit in the sleds.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33zXRmZsU4urLYuVs6duEdoeBRyiln5RIzOyiyk17o2eCuPYvmNNxhr6h3mbc3xot3IqeZmK2yVgHZEtp4YO0Qh6YfHIFkt6CJb-SEPWGtduIwVHfnDfzo43a4-_N-pHA-z-SlpSC6ff2/s1600/fall2010+233.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551724925090254578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33zXRmZsU4urLYuVs6duEdoeBRyiln5RIzOyiyk17o2eCuPYvmNNxhr6h3mbc3xot3IqeZmK2yVgHZEtp4YO0Qh6YfHIFkt6CJb-SEPWGtduIwVHfnDfzo43a4-_N-pHA-z-SlpSC6ff2/s400/fall2010+233.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaxHSLHz86pThuZlV_-wnRf0Moj6CAzvK46kpX3z-xV5ovo9cRFjeYc4DaORuvGLFIpPuIY3Ra7WRjMd8Ri6777tOsiIoXNhQNT1IieOoJoE-l9iGVU3LcqSHAVj946V3SZESCpE0qmE8Q/s1600/fall2010+234.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551724914749510322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaxHSLHz86pThuZlV_-wnRf0Moj6CAzvK46kpX3z-xV5ovo9cRFjeYc4DaORuvGLFIpPuIY3Ra7WRjMd8Ri6777tOsiIoXNhQNT1IieOoJoE-l9iGVU3LcqSHAVj946V3SZESCpE0qmE8Q/s400/fall2010+234.jpg" /></a> I'm sure the neighbors get a good chuckle out of it.<br /><br /><div></div></div>Laurie Freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10736367830666350764noreply@blogger.com0