tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15066554396070872732024-03-13T12:23:07.365-05:00Powell PlayThaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.comBlogger404125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-83152846055003719532017-04-13T17:01:00.000-05:002017-04-13T17:01:15.487-05:00Heritage and Legacy<br />
Last night, my mom texted that my grandfather passed away. It took me by surprise and it has been a struggle with my emotions since.<br />
<br />
This has hit me so hard. Not because I was very close to my Ong ngoai. His passing opened the floodgates to all my sorrow and sadness that I have been pushing down every time it tried to surface. It is making me reflect more on how I should be living. I am incredibly sad for my family. My mom, my aunts, my cousins who were close to him and had a relationship with him. Who were able to communicate with him and hold real conversations with him.<br />
<br />
You see, I am a terrible Asian. I joke about this and my non Asian friends think it is funny. It really IS funny on any other day. Any day but the day after I find out about my grandfather.<br />
I am a terrible Asian because I never embraced by heritage nor did I want to learn more about my family and where I came from. Actually, the want was there to learn about my family but what I lacked was the desire to push past my insecurities and the language barrier to find out my family's story.<br />
<br />
My parents and I along with an aunt came to the US when I was two. We spoke Vietnamese and English in our home but my upbringing was pretty Americanized. My mom brought over her family many years ago and although we would have family gatherings, I always felt like an outsider. I understood maybe half of the conversations that would fly through the house. My Vietnamese was not bad when I lived with my parents but after I ventured out on my own, I slowly lost those skills. It didn't help that I had no close Vietnamese friends to converse with. At family gatherings, I would rely more and more on my mom to be my translator.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UhAhJ6xEIz6_sQsJ4QriaQK8j-PPS_yWTxAqw-nfj1-A5Af9FBW1K00sXFWPXh-XDOSnZ6OfjcPt5fSX3J_OEzUcS1riBMWq3dRrs88Isx2Yd6u9hXg3ILN9e1ATIzdMD1ovypybSG0/s1600/IMG_5183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UhAhJ6xEIz6_sQsJ4QriaQK8j-PPS_yWTxAqw-nfj1-A5Af9FBW1K00sXFWPXh-XDOSnZ6OfjcPt5fSX3J_OEzUcS1riBMWq3dRrs88Isx2Yd6u9hXg3ILN9e1ATIzdMD1ovypybSG0/s320/IMG_5183.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The last time I saw my grandfather was in January. His memory had been failing but he was lucid and he remembered me. He asked about my boys and we had light conversation, again with my mom as the go between. I am just glad I got to see him.<br />
<br />
He was 95. From what I know, he has had a wonderful life, surrounded by people who love him and cared for him. But that's about the extent of what I know. I bet he had stories to tell about his childhood, his life, his work. But I don't know any of it and that plays a part in my sadness.<br />
<br />
We no longer take the time to find out about the people around us. What are their thoughts, their feelings, their loves, their vices. We call people friends, family, soul mates, or BFFs but do we really truly know them? Know what is in their heart as well on on their mind? Are we asking the right questions so that we can know them?<br />
<br />
This seems like ramblings of a confused and sad soul but my point in all of this is take the time to know the people in your life that you say are important. Do this before it is too late to do anything about it. Are their people in your life that will be remembered after they leave? What is their legacy and will it be remembered, documented, and passed on so that others can know them? These people do not have to be famous or have done something Nobel Prize worthy. The people in your life, family, friends, loved ones, they are a part of your heritage and they are part of your story and their story deserves to be told and live on.<br />
<br />
I wish I had taken the time to get to know him, to spend more time with him, talked to him more. Then I would have stories to tell my children and been able to pass down to them more than just the family nose. I love you Ông ngoại and so happy you are now at peace.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEoca5cSR1aCfPht5Pc_DnJr15Mn1ABbUy-GI6uuI2dzkyX0oKxyA9ufHqos5eaMbZ8SqeqjBkW3AbxF6zSzpgD_fm1VWtshUE_v29Kj9u7VgIHPD4uZwOoaeZJd8daRIb3tSeY0v9Gc/s1600/4ec4c7d59e199575a3fdc648a7e89198.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/AVvXsEhaEoca5cSR1aCfPht5Pc_DnJr15Mn1ABbUy-GI6uuI2dzkyX0oKxyA9ufHqos5eaMbZ8SqeqjBkW3AbxF6zSzpgD_fm1VWtshUE_v29Kj9u7VgIHPD4uZwOoaeZJd8daRIb3tSeY0v9Gc/s320/4ec4c7d59e199575a3fdc648a7e89198.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-70546759786317959042016-06-28T10:27:00.002-05:002016-06-28T10:27:47.079-05:00The workout adventures of Miss Fit at Vibe Fitness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Pu0W7UqScUXHHT-wMkplg-Xv962PquyAXeC5Uf2O4tO9l4c4Gd4gcV1JKCWYc1tBUB4BbQ7FG1DRZoqSy13Z_tHgpMKce-amnia2iSVgjyoSt8GuGVaGhZrAPZwMZK31oXcAhCPEW9s/s1600/27942499885_ee2a5bb424_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Pu0W7UqScUXHHT-wMkplg-Xv962PquyAXeC5Uf2O4tO9l4c4Gd4gcV1JKCWYc1tBUB4BbQ7FG1DRZoqSy13Z_tHgpMKce-amnia2iSVgjyoSt8GuGVaGhZrAPZwMZK31oXcAhCPEW9s/s320/27942499885_ee2a5bb424_o.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I had the opportunity to try Vibe Fitness for 21 days. Considering I have not been "active" in any fitness regimen for over a year, I saw this as a kick in the yoga pants to get myself back in shape. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Vibe Fitness in Katy is led by Ashlie Holdorf and her team of energetic instructors who thrive on positive energy. Ashlie has been in f<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">itness her entire life and started teaching dance and tumbling at 15. From there she progressed to group fitness and personal training. During her time as the </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">fitness manager for a fitness studio, she experienced the fitness family lifestyle and did not want to lose that vibe. So </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Vibe</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> Fitness came to life! </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Vibe opened in February 2016 and since then, word of mouth has spread in the Katy community through special events showcasing local entreprenuers, "mompreneurs", and networking groups. No matter your strength, agility, or ability, Vibe offers </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">classes for anyone and everyone. Vibe offers personal attention so you can try new things and succeed. They want to help, not just in fitness but in your community. One you join Vibe Fitness, you are in the Vibe Tribe!</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Vibe Fitness offers group fitness classes and personal training. Personal training can be for the individual, students, or couples/buddies. There are currently 16 different group classes and the descriptions are listed on their site: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.vibewithustexas.com/&source=gmail&ust=1467204484834000&usg=AFQjCNHle3bcXvErVq07JkX_b-hbgVkwEg" href="http://www.vibewithustexas.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://www.<wbr></wbr>vibewithustexas.com/</a>. There are some classes that are consistent, for example, Zumba <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1338703307" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Saturday</span></span> morning at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1338703308" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">9:30am</span></span> and candlelight yoga <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1338703309" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">on Monday</span></span> at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1338703310" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">7:00 pm</span></span>. During the week, there may be some variation in the group class schedule. More classes will be added in the coming months and additional instructors have been added for children's yoga. Ashlie is currently working on a Les Mills Body Pump class coming this Fall.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b>Aerial Yoga</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
This unique format incorporates elements of yoga, pilates and barre workouts to increase flexibility, strength and relaxation. Using beautiful silks to extend your traditional practice, we invite you to a one of a kind experience.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>music</i> - relaxing instrumental</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>intensity</i> - low</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Instructor</i> - Jackie</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Overall</i> - This class was the first one I took and a good intro back into working out. This was leg intensive for me as we balanced on one leg while the other leg was sequestered in the silk. The format is yoga poses incorporating the silks so it is a bit more challenging if you have a difficult time with balance however this does improve with continued practice. It is not a fast paced class so definitely one a beginner can try. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCRmXb80Ci5v_LtjMJWykmouoGxD2CcZp0_iDxPsZSMBAPtRnj-mALOmPV8AH4VpwDpVanWqcUiocKrpGaW1ZuVSWUu9v8LILGF-RHwPgcPdTJgJrTEt32rxBuT-360jNQiC_-b2AS5g/s1600/27329591503_6d0fc7613f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCRmXb80Ci5v_LtjMJWykmouoGxD2CcZp0_iDxPsZSMBAPtRnj-mALOmPV8AH4VpwDpVanWqcUiocKrpGaW1ZuVSWUu9v8LILGF-RHwPgcPdTJgJrTEt32rxBuT-360jNQiC_-b2AS5g/s320/27329591503_6d0fc7613f_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclAENIsaINg-t3-tEeopQcT_FxPimYKTbAw2kmEc1qYfl9ehk9MeoPSpTL7gqV9iluoCid4WCBDBZg7eUdlnb5FFgAu9OuGd5qT6ercz7FU2GtVBGLj4H0ltcTtL2pFefod_k09e4Qys/s1600/vibe_27275568670_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclAENIsaINg-t3-tEeopQcT_FxPimYKTbAw2kmEc1qYfl9ehk9MeoPSpTL7gqV9iluoCid4WCBDBZg7eUdlnb5FFgAu9OuGd5qT6ercz7FU2GtVBGLj4H0ltcTtL2pFefod_k09e4Qys/s320/vibe_27275568670_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b>Bollywood</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Bollywood Dancing is one of the hottest dances around! It is the foundation of every great Indian Bollywood Film. The dances are a fusion of traditional and classical Indian dances with the influence of some jazz, hip-hop and modern dance.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Music</i> - Bollywood</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Intensity</i> - Medium to high impact on legs/knees, cardio</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Instructor</i> - Divya </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Overall</i> - Bollywood was a lot of fun. from the music to the moves. There is quite a bit of hip action going on so this helps you flex those muscles. This is another good class for beginners as Divya alternates intensities from set to set. She will ask the class how they are doing and adjust the sets based on feedback.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b>Soul Grooves</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
A mind, body and soul workout that gets your body moving to the groove. Dance through the hits of today and groove your way to better health.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Music</i> - hip hop<br /><i>Intensity</i> - medium/high intensity, cardio</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Instructor</i> - Jodee</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Overall</i> - If you love dancing to hip hop music and really moving to the beat, this is the class for you. Very upbeat and high energy. Jodee engages the participants and encourages you to keep moving. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b>Zumba</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Feel the Latin beat with this fun and easy to follow dance class. This timeless classic is sure to make you move!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<div>
<i>Music</i> - Latin </div>
<div>
<i>Intensity</i> - Full Cardio</div>
<div>
<i>Instructor</i> - Divya </div>
<div>
<i>Overall</i> - This class is a mix of Bollywood and Soul Grooves. It contains some hip hop moves fused with Latin dance moves. Divya also engages the participants and changes up the beat from set to set. Some songs are intense moves and others are slow giving you a chance to catch your breath. If you love dancing, Bollywood, Soul Grooves, and Zumba are right up your alley.</div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b>Candlelight Yoga</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Wind down your day in the calming candlelight. Move through a relaxing practice designed to stretch your flexibility and center your soul.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<div>
<i>Music</i> - relaxing instrumental</div>
<div>
<i>Intensity</i> - low impact, low intensity</div>
<div>
<i>Instructor</i> - Sally and Sacha</div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<i>Overall</i> - This is one I recommend to anyone at any fitness level. Because it is low impact, it is great for improving flexibility, increase muscle strength and tone, improved respiration and energy, and protects from injury. This class helps strengthen your and the wind down is very relaxing. I cannot confirm nor deny falling asleep while in Savasana pose.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<div style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 15px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b>Pound</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Drum your way to fitness with this one of a kind workout utilizing drum sticks. We rock out while engaging your core and lower body and hit the floor like we are drumming in a live concert!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<div>
<div>
<i>Music </i>- fast paced and upbeat hip hop</div>
<div>
<i>Intensity</i> - intense strength training, minimal cardio</div>
<div>
<i>Instructor</i> - Tiplah</div>
</div>
<div>
<i>Overall</i> - WOW. This class was tougher for me because I have very little upper body core strength. This class left me the most sore because I worked muscles I did not even know were muscles. Tiplah pushes you to keep going. Even though she gives you modifications, she is really giving you the eyeball to tell you to push through it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQmd7uyPLM-QpsvVkWA63kniLgaamfjHdvZ48M6X8W9qJYqISe0RehxVAYPbjQn7TbLXGrFfFrBLbJBcWj0P2WXNLMscj4MwOyxw-B05xmiaATkK8-Gpu_iFrUepxj1PA31PGxYeyxts/s1600/27663609950_afe4c05428_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQmd7uyPLM-QpsvVkWA63kniLgaamfjHdvZ48M6X8W9qJYqISe0RehxVAYPbjQn7TbLXGrFfFrBLbJBcWj0P2WXNLMscj4MwOyxw-B05xmiaATkK8-Gpu_iFrUepxj1PA31PGxYeyxts/s320/27663609950_afe4c05428_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<b>Surfset</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
This class brings a variety of Burn, Balance, and Build to give you a full body workout that will leave you feeling ready for the waves.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<div>
<div>
<i>Music</i> - Low key but upbeat</div>
<div>
<i>Intensity</i> - intense strength training, minimal cardio</div>
<div>
<i>Instructor</i> - Ashlie</div>
</div>
<div>
<i>Overall</i> - I consider this class slightly more advanced only because there is the added task of balancing on a surfset board. For those who have handle on their balance during yoga moves, this will be an easy class. At times the moves were fast-paced and I was scared I would fall off the board. I did but at least you are close to the ground so no real damage occurred. This was a really fun class and one I would recommend after taking a few regular yoga or piyo classes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6hRcRuz_BRTtPtkRYNM0iJ2pkSIG09Tu5j8sG7uAJcZTIKN1VoHBLWsY6brIGvCD44Ti93qJe7yMmmpqvNDqIiAtUPPrlGwWxKjWuNlPeBo0_NNVdShduXg6ueIZ2r_Nnk8UP-96Jn8/s1600/vibe_26943756103_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6hRcRuz_BRTtPtkRYNM0iJ2pkSIG09Tu5j8sG7uAJcZTIKN1VoHBLWsY6brIGvCD44Ti93qJe7yMmmpqvNDqIiAtUPPrlGwWxKjWuNlPeBo0_NNVdShduXg6ueIZ2r_Nnk8UP-96Jn8/s320/vibe_26943756103_o.jpg" width="220" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0G22-_dh6GUkaL28fGHnDtrLUNKAz8B286SY5yasoFdicGpZ0xQDWTJmQkBncXxY51bVnv3KJrQiWxG44LvFJs0_wW8ZzskCvF6ZAwK8THNiE3vinxHhkQEpgDY-6bYO89Aa2tvdIqRM/s1600/vibe_26943755033_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 12.8px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0G22-_dh6GUkaL28fGHnDtrLUNKAz8B286SY5yasoFdicGpZ0xQDWTJmQkBncXxY51bVnv3KJrQiWxG44LvFJs0_wW8ZzskCvF6ZAwK8THNiE3vinxHhkQEpgDY-6bYO89Aa2tvdIqRM/s320/vibe_26943755033_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
I wanted to try all the classes so that I could eventually find 2-3 classes I really liked. (i.e. classes where I did not pass out in the first 10 minutes.) <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">After 3 weeks of classes, I have to say all the ones that I took were so much fun, the instructors are energetic, and I did not pass out in a single class. And when you take the classes with a friend, it makes it that much greater. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOiLsoUQPR9QD2GvA3Yye93Xisqhn_cLStR6ypqiGPMU5vmZol56n7H9cm4R6UEl8BVBTsHFxRhK4b79-YYZqa2IuUIpC-VaOY1ANPvZzuJ0fYgaITrTxpsbbMZwEIbgAqedLMp26xb8/s1600/vibe_27517888636_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOiLsoUQPR9QD2GvA3Yye93Xisqhn_cLStR6ypqiGPMU5vmZol56n7H9cm4R6UEl8BVBTsHFxRhK4b79-YYZqa2IuUIpC-VaOY1ANPvZzuJ0fYgaITrTxpsbbMZwEIbgAqedLMp26xb8/s320/vibe_27517888636_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeRN62ttEN2ln8BSg2ucplU27jNr24RpkmGD6EbN4tcTJUEIJVIGJYRAfqipp-SXM-eWCZRJyl7odPYq1HyKf5PEkwaiASMFCxS6yyzfHGartoic6UmO3qgDdCkgN8hopliDMHhzLrME/s1600/27584742791_14daccb1f8_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeRN62ttEN2ln8BSg2ucplU27jNr24RpkmGD6EbN4tcTJUEIJVIGJYRAfqipp-SXM-eWCZRJyl7odPYq1HyKf5PEkwaiASMFCxS6yyzfHGartoic6UmO3qgDdCkgN8hopliDMHhzLrME/s320/27584742791_14daccb1f8_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Membership consists of a monthly plan at $55 but if you sign up for 3 months, it is $150. Personal training is available as one -on-one or couple/buddy. Vibe also offers spray tanning, massages, and aesthetician services. You can find more information at </span></span><a href="http://www.vibewithustexas.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">vibewithustexas.com</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">.</span></span></div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-70517828345879378312016-06-14T23:06:00.000-05:002016-06-14T23:06:05.114-05:00My Favorite Things Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7UjvDgpEwSDKjpuDJBN6pJf6nIB5cmLzwhqAj5JECLslm3K3Jdp1vZyJ8VWaw5npf49Ak1hRDiK1fvSxK2daFP2EbZ6ysUyGXjHcNWA7Bn9RawlxGwnjexUsVPYZuV2dpnt-7h7VRFc/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7UjvDgpEwSDKjpuDJBN6pJf6nIB5cmLzwhqAj5JECLslm3K3Jdp1vZyJ8VWaw5npf49Ak1hRDiK1fvSxK2daFP2EbZ6ysUyGXjHcNWA7Bn9RawlxGwnjexUsVPYZuV2dpnt-7h7VRFc/s640/download.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you have never attended a Favorite Things party or even know what it is, keep reading, This was such a fun concept for a ladies' night party and it is super simple to throw one together.<br />
You start with a theme (no theme is also a popular theme), determine the price range for the favorite item, and how many of that item each person should bring.<br />
<br />
My wonderful friend, M, loves all things makeup so we decided on a beauty theme. We set up an event asking guests to pick an item around $8 and bring 3 of them. We did not ask them to wrap any of them but some of them did. For those who did not wrap, we had some brown lunch bags on hand and got a lot of use out of them.<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Supplies:</b><br />
Brown paper bags, ribbon, items for any games you may want to play (plastic practice golf balls, tennis balls, pantyhose if you want to play the games listed here). Printer and paper to print questionnaires, signs, and tags.<br />
<br />
<b>Food:</b><br />
For the food, we made it pot luck and asked each guest to bring their favorite snack, appetizer, drink, or dessert. A party is not complete without Nothing Bundt Cake!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrwLqGFvKrK3gX3qBMCKRggbmcdBAAV5yuocZI5xUrJ8VfWfBzxZCwTiGMIX-uyZL1yGIQgcO0L0-HMAyj7ATVDjeCRw0lEIjPdvoCR11E2UyaUbjLWCCvn7gQV-beY2frZPwuLjaH7U/s1600/25753323502_683ed2f4af_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrwLqGFvKrK3gX3qBMCKRggbmcdBAAV5yuocZI5xUrJ8VfWfBzxZCwTiGMIX-uyZL1yGIQgcO0L0-HMAyj7ATVDjeCRw0lEIjPdvoCR11E2UyaUbjLWCCvn7gQV-beY2frZPwuLjaH7U/s320/25753323502_683ed2f4af_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Taste testing Nothing Bundt cakes</div>
<br />
<b>Games:</b><br />
You don't have to play games but it can be a great icebreaker if many of your guests don't know each other. Each guest filled out this <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/131308145365162917/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">questionnaire</a>. Then we jumbled them up and each person read a questionnaire for us to guess who it belonged to.<br />
<br />
<i>How we picked our favorite things</i>:<br />
Using the brown paper bags, we numbered the bottom of the bags 1 to 9. Using the plastic practice golf balls, each person threw three balls, aiming for the bags. Whichever bag the balls fell determined which favorite things they won. If you choose this method, once a number has been picked 3 times, you will need to remove that bag. The last two people threw their balls at the same time to compete for the last bags.<br />
<br />
The last game we played was pantyhose bowling and I gotta tell ya, that is an awkwardly hilarious game. I highly recommend these shenanigans.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-zGpIemb5zmkPb8CdTVB-bgqyAAQVNmU1aus4rNOQ6o2XJsJKQArbpVPqH7Qk00EbNdTxO1XTJD95xnoAo-pM0PW0w5ilbmtnbUdvHkGn4YP8eYbtOTVY9glZ2rP9A3uiEwzOKZqBsY/s1600/25241433094_332823dc87_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-zGpIemb5zmkPb8CdTVB-bgqyAAQVNmU1aus4rNOQ6o2XJsJKQArbpVPqH7Qk00EbNdTxO1XTJD95xnoAo-pM0PW0w5ilbmtnbUdvHkGn4YP8eYbtOTVY9glZ2rP9A3uiEwzOKZqBsY/s320/25241433094_332823dc87_k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz4selUUYZYc16Iet_hFZkl60_gGFEtEXc7Wubz5pb-gGWc6Jp43n2FzlORoBxou-sI877A-smW-7D0v-zNqA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Gift bags:</b><br />
This is definitely not something you have to include in your party planning. Each guest will go home with some goodies already. I deci<span style="text-align: center;">ded to give each guest some other favorite things in brown paper packages tied up with string: </span><span style="text-align: center;">Thirty-One nail file, Scripture card, Elf lip/cheek/eye cream, chocolate, encouragement card for them to share with a friend. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUN5ClX4TZpmfbCsUK0aOpxVaBs7NgrjCqiICzeMXp_wbLlmJQMpreps0NHZxW6yyEOF0XqH9KkN54mG1vmMzpU7W1WJ7aa59gMUJ_z4oTH75DH-D7tkWbKW9AVZebm8PNmT36r_q6Hs/s1600/25770096162_85b9f15cf7_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUN5ClX4TZpmfbCsUK0aOpxVaBs7NgrjCqiICzeMXp_wbLlmJQMpreps0NHZxW6yyEOF0XqH9KkN54mG1vmMzpU7W1WJ7aa59gMUJ_z4oTH75DH-D7tkWbKW9AVZebm8PNmT36r_q6Hs/s320/25770096162_85b9f15cf7_z.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdPDNB2l5D2awDDDgBewMvOKMLX9NtZe-fo752MIM6_UsIULHSyGWcagPgHvZu8q2-l64qScmt5sjmOzo5TZ6NcA_1b4jVtgRESNACfMKxlniMD4Vm0VNOFYxQl7U24R6t8ejIjAGwqE/s1600/25753323392_9c4d2a9f5b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdPDNB2l5D2awDDDgBewMvOKMLX9NtZe-fo752MIM6_UsIULHSyGWcagPgHvZu8q2-l64qScmt5sjmOzo5TZ6NcA_1b4jVtgRESNACfMKxlniMD4Vm0VNOFYxQl7U24R6t8ejIjAGwqE/s320/25753323392_9c4d2a9f5b_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Get this printable tag </span><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/131308145364469458/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: start;">.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<b>Favorite Things:</b><br />
You can set the price for the item your guests will pick and determine how many of that item to bring. We went with an $8 max price and asked them to bring three of that item. Keep in mind the total cost each guest would spend. If you want to go home with more items, you can try $5 limit and bringing 5 items to the party.<br />
<br />
These were all the favorite things our friends brought to share: NYX Not Your Mother's Argan Oil for Hair, doTERRA Citrus Bliss Hand lotion, Dr. Jart+ Face Mask, Younique Eye Pigment, Blistex chapstick, Sally Hansen Insta-Dri nail polish, Pro-Pac Hair Masks, Cuticle Removal Gel, Callous Shaver, Nail brush, Moscato, NYX Soft matte lip cream.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdCQ_oK2mAXMzwEx7wO_8K3w3g1gxFoROTAeLKGYNwMVmaEV8f9Pvcm3rolWWxdDNPb6Ep-IS7d05icHLD8W_ISx_dkAKYxV5c_r72UzbdrS6WIRPVdivdWgV1vmf5181_Jn2NEymknI/s1600/1937439_10153872966990236_1351415144260090649_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdCQ_oK2mAXMzwEx7wO_8K3w3g1gxFoROTAeLKGYNwMVmaEV8f9Pvcm3rolWWxdDNPb6Ep-IS7d05icHLD8W_ISx_dkAKYxV5c_r72UzbdrS6WIRPVdivdWgV1vmf5181_Jn2NEymknI/s320/1937439_10153872966990236_1351415144260090649_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8sUUUZvubRL76oaSedqE-GpGTs0uo87iIC5T-MD4_hG0UHDZKpUKu40mVd-0BiaAYgEjMBMBksipKySLdpI-y1duZTpFya4-f5vZXLDyCzxf_9aEHkQ6vYDVP_hZPgqegnhOcHjYPE0/s1600/12523873_10207600739831121_4383523337192005137_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8sUUUZvubRL76oaSedqE-GpGTs0uo87iIC5T-MD4_hG0UHDZKpUKu40mVd-0BiaAYgEjMBMBksipKySLdpI-y1duZTpFya4-f5vZXLDyCzxf_9aEHkQ6vYDVP_hZPgqegnhOcHjYPE0/s320/12523873_10207600739831121_4383523337192005137_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGi89XcZ-msPLshrxSz3Mz-2VYuT-xMIItxyNywb-80f_D8U2OCbL29bnWeVAAviLtlZsFfXPPOy6FfugB3ADFQ4Tt5_bHgkDCEqMeDDlvVuSsr_xwsovAXl2P3i4TVpxC9lTIOafh5Y/s1600/25258160554_a4558cb2d3_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGi89XcZ-msPLshrxSz3Mz-2VYuT-xMIItxyNywb-80f_D8U2OCbL29bnWeVAAviLtlZsFfXPPOy6FfugB3ADFQ4Tt5_bHgkDCEqMeDDlvVuSsr_xwsovAXl2P3i4TVpxC9lTIOafh5Y/s320/25258160554_a4558cb2d3_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BRh4cYfLshgB162YGpfg-mq5zO_9PrEQyjjJEsaran3FZNJ-cUwd5_yXjDlp4dg0dpLb_GXDDoofHLZRLCvN8Bb-Jc_bca7UFJ4DHuRToSKkV28-xib_OJ5Qmehpu8Z3mkhhyphenhyphennjb7pc/s1600/10423705_1149787408365834_3184445201071073242_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BRh4cYfLshgB162YGpfg-mq5zO_9PrEQyjjJEsaran3FZNJ-cUwd5_yXjDlp4dg0dpLb_GXDDoofHLZRLCvN8Bb-Jc_bca7UFJ4DHuRToSKkV28-xib_OJ5Qmehpu8Z3mkhhyphenhyphennjb7pc/s320/10423705_1149787408365834_3184445201071073242_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our first Favorite things party was a success and I cannot wait for the next one. Laughing with these beautiful ladies was the highlight of the night. The goodies we got were just icing on the cake.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIX4xvyQ8rqRgIrQW0_RLcgrWlluLyZ9tGtxvxaAQfKWd3ukoJFw-DM6SVy0HEg2LGfCjaUGYYPT1INGTxbyAQlnlwKVFuMmy_M_wjs2uAe9z83-c07DCJYa0rfzFJICYLMTDoYfgbCU/s1600/25865002566_1bfea51d66_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIX4xvyQ8rqRgIrQW0_RLcgrWlluLyZ9tGtxvxaAQfKWd3ukoJFw-DM6SVy0HEg2LGfCjaUGYYPT1INGTxbyAQlnlwKVFuMmy_M_wjs2uAe9z83-c07DCJYa0rfzFJICYLMTDoYfgbCU/s320/25865002566_1bfea51d66_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
At the end of the night, we supplied gift tags and encouraged each person to write a note to a friend, something encouraging or a compliment. There were the sweet tags that brought a smile to my face and chuckle in my heart.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxp_3ny_X3pjjZ5v85AC0__yLVeFQFrrsvG0rv1ZR2rIo12nLjtahkR-WHJBWA3mu_1_Rahqql5CV87DM96OdDW1aTKQcOAaRT30AObXPfl0WEQctGq3rRiMdLADPI_5fRY2kYXwH0VeY/s1600/25890891185_8a0fb06b74_c.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxp_3ny_X3pjjZ5v85AC0__yLVeFQFrrsvG0rv1ZR2rIo12nLjtahkR-WHJBWA3mu_1_Rahqql5CV87DM96OdDW1aTKQcOAaRT30AObXPfl0WEQctGq3rRiMdLADPI_5fRY2kYXwH0VeY/s320/25890891185_8a0fb06b74_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Visit Pinterest for more <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/thao_powell/favorite-things-party/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Favorite things party ideas</a>.<br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-36551185206358842172016-05-17T15:00:00.001-05:002016-06-03T15:49:59.626-05:00Summer Movie Programs for kids 2016 - Houston areas specific<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S0p91GJ_LGsNSaYC_elDrovOe4ODIVeBoS6DC9W1-Dy02C249fneLRoCRRNaLFoZG2OCOD2p20yO-YSkKZyApofxMZ7UdkNVgU0EFNdd1GV3FguOD071R2-_IYaxezTcsfd0QaoygGo/s1600/Regal-Moves-1-kids-movies-550x243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S0p91GJ_LGsNSaYC_elDrovOe4ODIVeBoS6DC9W1-Dy02C249fneLRoCRRNaLFoZG2OCOD2p20yO-YSkKZyApofxMZ7UdkNVgU0EFNdd1GV3FguOD071R2-_IYaxezTcsfd0QaoygGo/s320/Regal-Moves-1-kids-movies-550x243.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For parents with children out of school for the summer, thinking of schedules and what to do with them can be stressful. Not to mention the astronomical cost of "entertaining" them or putting them in a summer camp or program. I feel like I need to take out a loan just so they aren't roaming the streets, getting juice box wasted and high on warheads. This is where low cost movies during the summer can be a lifesaver. It is two hours of quiet time (hopefully) and out of the heat. We won't discuss the possible 20 z's you might catch when you close your eyes during the previews.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have compiled information on Houston area theaters with summer movie programs. Be sure to check with each theater's website for more details or changes to the program.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<b><a href="http://www.cinemark.com/summer-movie-clubhouse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse</span></a></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Each movie is $1 or you can buy a bundle punch card for $5 for 10 movies.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #414141; line-height: 20.4375px;">Show days are Tue, Wed, Thurs <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1979958882" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">9:00am</span></span> o-9:30</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.cinemark.com/summer-movie-clubhouse&source=gmail&ust=1463600414765000&usg=AFQjCNHSMc7i2LddGYQkPbuVgY4qhdiGhg" href="http://www.cinemark.com/summer-movie-clubhouse" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><i>http://www.cinemark.com/<wbr></wbr>summer-movie-clubhouse</i></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVF-DGue_3qlIyru5ZBMSpmjGtoIZradYb-of4wgs328Ii-dpNVPWfE_KxSO5HPtCcwkUw3cO1PJ_mbW-Ihs3bnBBiALbvkPVOD-7gRnlAfodpgXv5oMOSt6WGa1P-Hz89TCzNUxdl7XI/s1600/2016+SMC+-+270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVF-DGue_3qlIyru5ZBMSpmjGtoIZradYb-of4wgs328Ii-dpNVPWfE_KxSO5HPtCcwkUw3cO1PJ_mbW-Ihs3bnBBiALbvkPVOD-7gRnlAfodpgXv5oMOSt6WGa1P-Hz89TCzNUxdl7XI/s320/2016+SMC+-+270.jpg" width="247" /></span></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<a href="http://www.regmovies.com/Movies/Summer-Movie-Express?" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Regal Entertainment Theaters</span></b></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Each movie is $1.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Show days are <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1979958883" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Tuesday</span></span> and <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1979958884" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Wednesday</span></span> at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1979958885" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">10am</span></span>. <span style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Each week both movies play on both days. Check your specific theater for start dates. </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px;">A portion of the proceeds goes to the Will Rogers Institute.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.regmovies.com/Movies/Summer-Movie-Express&source=gmail&ust=1463600414765000&usg=AFQjCNEQsu72pdlEo6TDXeeIbZ-6mWxnHA" href="http://www.regmovies.com/Movies/Summer-Movie-Express" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://www.regmovies.com/<wbr></wbr>Movies/Summer-Movie-Express</a>?</span></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.santikos.com/promotions/freesummermovies.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Santikos</a> - Palladium specific</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Movies are free</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Show days are <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1979958886" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Tuesday</span></span> and <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1979958887" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Wednesday</span></span> at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1979958888" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">10am</span></span>.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Summer snack pack with popcorn and drink is $4</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The movie program benefits Child Advocates.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.santikos.com/promotions/freesummermovies.php&source=gmail&ust=1463600414765000&usg=AFQjCNEEKQgOspg2xvV7PWcdIqRTAD6a8w" href="http://www.santikos.com/promotions/freesummermovies.php" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><i>http://www.santikos.com/<wbr></wbr>promotions/freesummermovies.<wbr></wbr>php</i></a></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<a href="https://www.studiomoviegrill.com/Movies.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Studio Movie Grill</span></b></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Each movie is $1. Movies run M-F at 11, depending on location.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Their site is a little different. Click on the link and select ALL if not defaulted. Movies are listed alphabetically. Find the movie you wish to see (it will say summer movie series at the bottom of the picture.) Once you hit select, it will take you to the available theaters. Select the theater then the date and showtime. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.studiomoviegrill.com/Movies.aspx&source=gmail&ust=1463600414765000&usg=AFQjCNHj2dF6d-J2auXZ8uH6fVZIxGsjFg" href="https://www.studiomoviegrill.com/Movies.aspx" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><i>https://www.studiomoviegrill.<wbr></wbr>com/Movies.aspx</i></a></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Updated to add </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u><a href="https://drafthouse.com/houston/series/alamo-kids-camp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alamo Drafthouse - Mason and Vintage Park</a></u></b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div style="color: #222222;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Choose your own ticket price - $1-$3 and buy your tickets online to reserve your seats in advance. 100% of ticket sales are donated to local nonprofits working to make our community a better place. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Most Kids Camp screenings are ages 3 and up, but some locations are All Ages - please check drafthouse.com for local policies. Their viewing week is different from the other theaters so pay attention to dates.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">And during the summer, all movies before 2PM are $5 at Vintage Park and Mason Park!</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Save this pic to your phone</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuERWiOh8FBoY4_C7WDe_1qxyonIKziJUHH-d_6ZMQbgr5IRDFNs9sjOmMiSCuhOIZA5JhyvJZj_6TDSLc3CU3Fdx84PZ4AbYDIZWBn24fAHG3eT-VCL11D57UKWYw3KNhGPbaCASYS5E/s1600/movie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="65" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuERWiOh8FBoY4_C7WDe_1qxyonIKziJUHH-d_6ZMQbgr5IRDFNs9sjOmMiSCuhOIZA5JhyvJZj_6TDSLc3CU3Fdx84PZ4AbYDIZWBn24fAHG3eT-VCL11D57UKWYw3KNhGPbaCASYS5E/s320/movie2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Or access the Google drive document <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2KIHbnP1zI3MWZKSVFVcUsyRkE/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>HERE</i></a>.</span></div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-22300420215106380012016-05-15T23:44:00.002-05:002016-05-15T23:44:23.012-05:00How I started introducing God into teachable moments<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeTJrBamJtTjli_Hen-88vRQRXyHzkNeSHaJTOZtDfJ19hTDdt7SVSzSPoemNPJagUBT9lfzBBPIYngDZ4lOYlk_cXbZana6B9WRlGNOXkhzn73xKfG_t0urR-kbzBwazE2FEJxnSaQKw/s1600/9074171805781bd731c842c14afe18b1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeTJrBamJtTjli_Hen-88vRQRXyHzkNeSHaJTOZtDfJ19hTDdt7SVSzSPoemNPJagUBT9lfzBBPIYngDZ4lOYlk_cXbZana6B9WRlGNOXkhzn73xKfG_t0urR-kbzBwazE2FEJxnSaQKw/s400/9074171805781bd731c842c14afe18b1.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started going to church earlier this year and the boys have been attending the kids ministry. We are a family of faith but we rarely freely talk about faith and religion. With the boys learning more at Sunday school, we are getting questions about God and Jesus. Although this makes me extremely happy, I worry how I can talk about a topic I know so little about. I am thankful these kids have an amazing dad who can discuss religion and faith with them. What I have been doing is bringing up the topic of God when disciplining the children. And with headstrong boys who want to exert their authority in a power struggles with mom (translation: acting like maniacal heathens), I get lots of opportunities to touch on God during "teachable moments".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning was a rough start for S. I asked multiple times for him to brush his teeth and when I asked for a 6th time, he made the poor choice of throwing a fit and then throwing an iPhone up the stairs. I was in another room when I heard the bang against the wall but I knew exactly what he did. My blood was boiling because this was not the first time he has thrown things in his rage. As soon as I walked up to him, he knew he was in trouble. I started to yell but then looked at him hoping for a sign that the talk this time would sink in. I sat down and he sat on my lap. It was 10 tear-filled minutes for Sam as I talked to him about his behavior, anger, lashing out, respect, apologizing, God's love, and asking forgiveness. He was crying hard and felt so bad that he didn't know how to ask Him for forgiveness. He finally was able to look at me and apologize, then I helped him start his own prayer, asking God to forgive him for behaving poorly, throwing the phone, and disappointing me. He hugged me tightly wanted to sit with me while he cried himself to sleep. I never get a chance to snap a photo during our tender moments because he always acts like a big goof. As soon as he heard me snap a pic, he woke and was back to his normal hammy self. I realize that teachable moments like these won't always end in hugs and kisses so I was glad to have this as proof that it is possible to hug and make up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcYxSvFGfJD6iVO2GmzTjaaQhBla2z4Uiq_xVNV-2Ky3SeQwZahoQaMB5FetDfNKNSy2BTlT4VxFVqlAyg3Yjqwibbva7u3Dm4jj1hUckPvarPE_iFWyGOM5CyVoOJVpaGn5FvZ6ptFU/s1600/632a76eb-56e2-4a61-9b69-eb1b139263d5.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcYxSvFGfJD6iVO2GmzTjaaQhBla2z4Uiq_xVNV-2Ky3SeQwZahoQaMB5FetDfNKNSy2BTlT4VxFVqlAyg3Yjqwibbva7u3Dm4jj1hUckPvarPE_iFWyGOM5CyVoOJVpaGn5FvZ6ptFU/s320/632a76eb-56e2-4a61-9b69-eb1b139263d5.jpg" width="223" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I wish parenting trials were few, talks with our children were easy, and teachable moments always ended positively. But that's not real life. The hardest job as parents is helping our kids prepare for life mentally stable, physically strong, and emotionally intelligent. I am hoping for minimal disturbances in the force as they continue to grow and that I won't ever have to bail them out of jail.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>My tips for teachable moments. </b></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remain calm. If you feel your blood boiling and you need time to cool down, tell them you both need a time out. Talking to them about their bad behavior will not be effective if you do it in anger. Remember to lead by example by speaking calmly and in a low tone.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Praise something about them, a trait that is positive or actions they do that make you proud. Leading with a positive and following with the (negative) action that is unacceptable, helps diffuse volatile emotions for both parties. Kids worry that the love stops when we get mad. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Keep it simple. Don't bring up past bad behavior and roll it up into a present talk. This is not your spouse and bringing up past or more incidences that may not be relevant to the current discussion can confuse them. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You will always love them but you don't like their behavior, poor choices, attitude, etc. God's love for us never fails, that even when we do fail, his grace forgives us. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lead them in prayer. Pray over them and in their ear so their focus is on your words. Then, help them pray in their own words with minimal word feeding. A simple way to introduce prayer to your children by using the Five Finger Prayer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Always end with lots of hugs and kisses.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2IYxdPDXyjA95br5icKWUzcG7FLmG947iNQ8qbOfuL8OmdYIQo5tv09m1-Yz4AqXxlYfiiyaInHccd1SWBBEZd3QcyvgDecR-am-c7kDdb_vs-84gHnVzIvz5ASI-vW00k87jsAzVgCU/s1600/five-finger-prayer-printable.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2IYxdPDXyjA95br5icKWUzcG7FLmG947iNQ8qbOfuL8OmdYIQo5tv09m1-Yz4AqXxlYfiiyaInHccd1SWBBEZd3QcyvgDecR-am-c7kDdb_vs-84gHnVzIvz5ASI-vW00k87jsAzVgCU/s400/five-finger-prayer-printable.jpg" width="316" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-38315074060805892752016-05-06T16:07:00.002-05:002016-05-06T16:07:28.948-05:00A Mother's Journey<div style="background-color: white; border-spacing: 2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="border-spacing: 2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2zmAmeYZAswH_HfP9WgV5t3OIqhGrhUDdMCp3YwK_5-7DVXieH-v2fFXG2G2rBd5FELwynCh_HsaykR1qR7yHUJtVkdT3ICcVloE5isOM2BVzYv3eay1wY7B5ouOLdyI2Z02K6pT0nik/s1600/rainy-day-walk-with-mom-vickie-wade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2zmAmeYZAswH_HfP9WgV5t3OIqhGrhUDdMCp3YwK_5-7DVXieH-v2fFXG2G2rBd5FELwynCh_HsaykR1qR7yHUJtVkdT3ICcVloE5isOM2BVzYv3eay1wY7B5ouOLdyI2Z02K6pT0nik/s320/rainy-day-walk-with-mom-vickie-wade.jpg" width="316" /></span></a></div>
<div style="display: table-cell; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 40px 0px 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle; width: 710px;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 22.4px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 22.4px;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 22.4px;">A Mother's Journey</span></div>
</span></span><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(Parable of a Mother's Path of Life)</span></div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; border-spacing: 2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 22.4px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The young mother set her foot on the path of life. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Is the way long?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yes," her Guide said, "and the way is hard. You will be old before you reach the end of it. But--" He stopped to smile warmly. "The end will be better than the beginning."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The young mother was so happy, though, that she could not believe anything could be better than these early years. She played with her children, and gathered flowers for them along the way, and bathed with them in the clear streams. The sun shone on them and life was good, and the young mother cried, "Nothing will ever be lovelier than this."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then night came, and storm, and the path was dark. The children shook with fear and cold, and the mother drew them close, covering them with her mantle. Her children said, "Oh, Mother, we are not afraid when you are near." The mother said, "This is better than the brightness of day, for I have taught my children courage."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then the morning came, and there was a hill ahead. The children climbed and grew weary. The mother was weary, too, but she kept encouraging her children, "A little patience and we are there." So the children continued to climb. When they reached the top, they said, "We could not have done it without you, Mother." And the mother, when she lay down that night, looked past the stars and said, "This is a better day than the last. My children have learned fortitude in the face of difficulty. Yesterday I taught them courage, today I have taught them strength."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With the next day came strange clouds that darkened the earth--clouds of war and hate and evil. The children groped and stumbled. The mother said, "Look up. Lift your eyes past the blackness to the Light." The children looked up and saw an Everlasting Glory above the strange clouds. It guided them and brought them through the darkness and evil. That night the mother said, "This is the best day of all, for I have helped my children learn to see God."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The days went on, and the weeks and the months and the years. The mother grew old, until she was very little and bent. But her children were tall and strong, and they walked with courage. When the way was hard, they helped their mother; when the way was rough, they lifted her, for she was as light as a feather. At last they came to a hill, and beyond the hill they could see a shining road and golden gate flung wide.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The mother said, "I have reached the end of my journey. Now I know that the end really is better than the beginning, for my children can walk alone, and they will teach their children after them."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The children said, "You will always walk with us, Mother, even when you have gone through the gates."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They stood and watched her as she went on alone, and the gates closed after her. They said, "We can't see her, but she is with us still. A mother like ours is more than a memory; she is a living presence."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border-spacing: 2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 1.4;"></span><span style="line-height: 18.48px;"></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18.48px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 18.48px;">~ Written for Good Housekeeping Magazine in 1933 by Temple Bailey ~ </span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="border-spacing: 2px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="border-spacing: 2px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRvZh3UT2z_-KGw6N71GDZMwxUqDWiPUIuu7wCQmZnUTBJadbxLNv_FnfTAvkeZi5JZzYeAeCaf_xfvvFjvfPjg64P9DqaCaeuTxe7j2eI_0DuiTGZ4nebv2TYb6U0F70UNgoZOtKLR0/s1600/8c2a86139c43b10ef96a9f912d05fc8c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRvZh3UT2z_-KGw6N71GDZMwxUqDWiPUIuu7wCQmZnUTBJadbxLNv_FnfTAvkeZi5JZzYeAeCaf_xfvvFjvfPjg64P9DqaCaeuTxe7j2eI_0DuiTGZ4nebv2TYb6U0F70UNgoZOtKLR0/s320/8c2a86139c43b10ef96a9f912d05fc8c.jpg" width="241" /></span></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border-spacing: 2px; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-11024960609655669892016-04-18T00:23:00.003-05:002016-04-18T00:26:42.063-05:005 Ingredient Sweet Potato Brownies<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I saw a post for a 5 ingredient, anti-inflammatory brownie <a href="http://dailyhealthpost.com/simple-sweet-potato-brownies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">recipe</a> and I was excited to try it. I mean, how much could I possibly mess up with such a simple recipe?</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I found the <a href="http://amzn.to/20P7fc9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MaraNatha</a> almond butter at Walmart. They have other flavors like maple, dark chocolate, caramel, and crunchy. I think I may try these brownies with another flavor or almond butter and see how they taste. The <a href="http://amzn.to/1qScM5u" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">carob chips</a> were a bit harder to locate but I did find them at Whole Foods for about 3 dollars a bag. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SC0hRZX8PtIkZGFHUAIOYvcIFh_ju-Br3eVZCAoYja6ljMRf8HKjNKSOHW6330DBahKipGLl3IRLJBad-z0NUsrCO233GEg3JXUgbkcA891LBntmw00BSqYnfI0Rk9h9Pl_C2N_iBL4/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SC0hRZX8PtIkZGFHUAIOYvcIFh_ju-Br3eVZCAoYja6ljMRf8HKjNKSOHW6330DBahKipGLl3IRLJBad-z0NUsrCO233GEg3JXUgbkcA891LBntmw00BSqYnfI0Rk9h9Pl_C2N_iBL4/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ingredients</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 400; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">2 cup mashed sweet potato (about 2-3 sweet potatoes)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">1 cup smooth nut butter of choice (I recommend almond or cashew butter)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">4 tbsp maple syrup</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">1/2 cup cocoa powder</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">1-2 cups <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/blog/whole-story/advantages-carob" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">carob chips</a> (optional)</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #444444;"><br />
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Directions</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Preheat the oven to 350 and grease a small cake/loaf pan (I used 8x8 pan)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">On the stove, melt nut butter with maple syrup</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">In a large bowl add the mashed sweet potato, melted nut butter and
maple syrup, and cocoa powder and mix well</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fold in carob chips, as many as you want.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pour mixture into greased pan. Optional: sprinkle carob chips on top.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked
through</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing and
refrigerating.</span></span></li>
</ol>
</h3>
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtyjN2SR5mLPuCG36EoKasIfGkcUCNuVg22QZ5oIZ3Fw4lGtzCZOUPFGu5FtgYQDNbr08EJwk8kiaAKwb_Ww2xvuzSYwiT966p-w-LlaYuH8E9vOAbP9M_jI_HJ1rVGTBr7owsaKiWNI/s1600/IMG_7252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtyjN2SR5mLPuCG36EoKasIfGkcUCNuVg22QZ5oIZ3Fw4lGtzCZOUPFGu5FtgYQDNbr08EJwk8kiaAKwb_Ww2xvuzSYwiT966p-w-LlaYuH8E9vOAbP9M_jI_HJ1rVGTBr7owsaKiWNI/s1600/IMG_7252.JPG" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.1;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">These brownies are best when cooled completely otherwise they will be too mushy and will fall apart. Store in fridge or freezer and ENJOY!</span></span></h3>
<b><u><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The benefits of these sweet potato brownies. </span></u></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sweet Potatoes have a natural sweetness that can help you reduce your sugar intake, supports blood sugar management, if you have a serious sweet tooth. They have a relatively high glycemic index and can be great for those dealing with type 2 diabetes.</span></span></span><br />
<h4 style="margin: 18px 0px 9px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 400; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Anthocyanin (what makes a sweet potato orange) provides excellent anti-inflammatory benefits. The benefits of this compound are felt the most in the nerve tissue and brain.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 400; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 400; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sweet potatoes are full of vitamins A and C, making them great for
your immune system. They also have vitamin B6, B1, B2, B3, manganese, copper, phosphorus,
potassium, and fiber; all of which are compounds that support the work of the digestive system, keep our blood safe and support our overall health.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 400; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 400; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://draxe.com/maple-syrup-nutrition/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Maple Syrup</a> contains up to 24 different antioxidants that are beneficial for reducing free radical damage that can cause inflammation and contribute to the formation of various chronic diseases.</span></div>
</h4>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><u><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Verdict</span></u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When I pulled the brownies from the oven, the boys immediately asked me for a bite. They were saddened to learn they had to wait for them to cool. I was impatient so I went ahead and cut them while they were warm and they fell apart. Despite the fact that the texture is mushier than a normal brownie, these are REALLY good. If you like super sweet desserts, this may not be the one for you. Carob chips are not super sweet but they were perfect for my sweet tooth.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIr6Neg9CtWN89ZZtNJXzqYgXP1xcfqltdq9IQMYVBMyX7STXVhed2YWad2RcIV3hgbULGdOdHaM9Yg8KCrLquhnNcDJvdika8FkZjJF6ihFhtu2OJAmEuR-JexmxjdelxCFpl-BAP9Tk/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" /></span></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you want another sweet potato brownie recipe, try Dr. Axe's 16 ingredient <a href="http://draxe.com/recipe/sweet-potato-brownies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">recipe</a>. As for me, I am sticking with the 5 ingredient version.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Post contains affiliate links</span></span>Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-54321541893820938392016-04-12T12:00:00.000-05:002016-04-12T12:00:09.373-05:00Texas Mothers of Multiples 2016 ConventionTexas Moms of Multiples conventions were created for moms to spend one weekend away from their kids. To allow us to not feel guilty about our time away to hang out with other moms who "get" you, other moms who can offer bits of wisdom, to tell you that the stage you are in with your twins/triplets/or more won't be the worst you will ever experience, and that it really does change in a matter of moments. You find out your kids are not the only ones who like to scream out "vagina" and "penis" in public places, who eat boogers, smear poop, don't eat their vegetables, and still have tantrums even though you think they are way too old to throw fits still.<br />
<br />
This past weekend was the 2016 convention held in Kemah. The convention was hosted by Bay Area Moms of Multiples and they planned the entire convention, from the tours, classes, and meals. Putting on an event of this magnitude takes a lot of teamwork and they pulled it off quite wonderfully. I met some pretty hilarious ladies from other clubs but best of all, I hung out with some pretty cool ladies from our club.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The weather was gorgeous and the view was spectacular.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nquwy4KONXb-8f8yj36ZRzHIL21qXccvSFwkAZht7yXeMZplX_1ajKOvuIJt4JiEH7LFLvSSHwdlVFKk5Mf8JBh7IZRzXPIEdoGdI3fTY0KwiKxYN7-MkB9Kryjxl8L1I4_e2KkyvT4/s1600/26259683371_2cd5a79b4b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nquwy4KONXb-8f8yj36ZRzHIL21qXccvSFwkAZht7yXeMZplX_1ajKOvuIJt4JiEH7LFLvSSHwdlVFKk5Mf8JBh7IZRzXPIEdoGdI3fTY0KwiKxYN7-MkB9Kryjxl8L1I4_e2KkyvT4/s320/26259683371_2cd5a79b4b_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgELksoL1eBs0m9VUHp1Gjzwpv-UC212KnSMsTK28SSWpbANfny_Cq3PMYjSUaZoXJLukV7Z-mQihkL9_EqQMl1aB07k9u0QDsIfJZgmp-izxq_QrCxmxuvTx9oHDfSSCR7-lfySePr3M/s1600/26053041650_28c0fb8655_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgELksoL1eBs0m9VUHp1Gjzwpv-UC212KnSMsTK28SSWpbANfny_Cq3PMYjSUaZoXJLukV7Z-mQihkL9_EqQMl1aB07k9u0QDsIfJZgmp-izxq_QrCxmxuvTx9oHDfSSCR7-lfySePr3M/s320/26053041650_28c0fb8655_z.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We visited Space Center Houston and took a tram tour.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1554/26249862791_0f9b037614_m.jpg" /> <img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1588/26223693272_be4a4a7408_m.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of good food.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1597/25778345073_f3dbcbc6c8_z.jpg" width="320" /> <img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1517/26299953366_67ed0bc1df_m.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo booth awesomeness happened at the dinners. Every party deserves a photo booth. Certainly makes taking "us-ies" easier.</div>
<img height="212" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1649/26088895330_bfd8bbc03e_z.jpg" width="320" /><img height="213" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1522/26269780572_b120e753fd_z.jpg" width="320" /><br />
<br />
<img height="212" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1576/25721046544_3e8b2331f5_z.jpg" width="320" /><img height="213" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1554/26089291400_1c59c9b20a_z.jpg" width="320" /><br />
<br />
<br />
So if you are not part of an organization who meets up annually, to celebrate being a mom, start your own club and plan an annual get-together. You deserve it. And you'll thank me later.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-9417991277735878022016-04-11T12:47:00.000-05:002016-04-11T12:47:09.738-05:003 Main Reasons to get a Natural Himalayan Salt lamp in your home now.<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlbDYzmdMRqzA5gIZ-mWDVdaK1poMsUWy7GJ4ZMaZ5UHJrBJu1aZ3x4x2lRUZsBaE4KvkBbB5vjnmXvaZTjnyV1pBthSROaxFIjg1MQQIb26JG1RMz262csU0LuXjURSEQTqzol4foaBc/s1600/Himalayan-salt-lamp.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlbDYzmdMRqzA5gIZ-mWDVdaK1poMsUWy7GJ4ZMaZ5UHJrBJu1aZ3x4x2lRUZsBaE4KvkBbB5vjnmXvaZTjnyV1pBthSROaxFIjg1MQQIb26JG1RMz262csU0LuXjURSEQTqzol4foaBc/s320/Himalayan-salt-lamp.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">3 Main Reasons to get a Natural Himalayan Salt lamp in your home now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a person who suffers from seasonal threats, having these softly glowing, natural sources of fresh, clean air in my home, is almost as good as an open window on a fresh Spring day. These salt lamps come in all shapes, sizes, and displays and you can place them on your desk, in your living room, in all bedrooms, anywhere you choose to put it.<img alt="Displaying IMG_6505.JPG" aria-hidden="true" class="aLF-aPX-J1-J3 aLF-aPX-aLK-ayr-auR" src="blob:https%3A//mail.google.com/555775a2-212d-481b-875b-d12040777f4a" /> One sits in our living area guarded by a ninja turtle.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgTSi_zLZ5xHMDmauoizMlOa2gyEgWNbQHw4UpDvnakKY2-KyAlqpp_NO89zwEtHFGwZPZarfU_WwdBipZC2SjLpjgR6hhXrkqcb-_aC3NI2VmEZ_E7qb26pdMvsGvXJuE7CVU351aCM/s1600/555775a2-212d-481b-875b-d12040777f4a.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgTSi_zLZ5xHMDmauoizMlOa2gyEgWNbQHw4UpDvnakKY2-KyAlqpp_NO89zwEtHFGwZPZarfU_WwdBipZC2SjLpjgR6hhXrkqcb-_aC3NI2VmEZ_E7qb26pdMvsGvXJuE7CVU351aCM/s320/555775a2-212d-481b-875b-d12040777f4a.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cleanses Air, reducing allergens</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Himalayan salt lamps purify air through the power of hygroscopy. The salt lamps attract water molecules from the surrounding area and absorbs those molecules along with any foreign particles they may be carrying, into the salt crystal. As the lamp warms up from the heat produced by the light bulb, that same water particle evaporates back into the air and the trapped particles of dust, pollen, smoke, remain in the salt.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Himalayan salt lamps remove microscopic particles of dust, pet dander, mold, mildew, etc from the surrounding air. By placing a salt lamp in rooms you use the most, it can help cut back on allergens and allergy symptoms. The Himalayan Salt is said to works so well for allergy and asthma symptoms, you can find them in <a href="http://amzn.to/25JxJzA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">inhalers</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Adds negativity. In a positive way</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Himalayan Salt lamps act as a negative ionizer and can reduce the levels of positive ions depending on the size and placement of the lamp. In this technological age, we are surrounded by electronics such as TVs, computers, cell phone, tablet, appliances, etc that emit electromagnetic (EM) radiation. While they may be invisible, the long-term effects of EM exposure can be quite serious. Constant exposure to EM radiation is known to increase stress levels, cause chronic fatigue, and decrease the body’s immune response, among other things. Himalayan salt lamps work to neutralize electromagnetic radiation in a short range. Even as limited as its production of negative ions, it is a great addition to the home to help:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Increased relaxation and calmness</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Improved ability to concentrate, allowing you to work for longer periods</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Help with getting to sleep and more restful sleep</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A better overall sense of health and well-being.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Reduces Stress and increase recovery from stress</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In this <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12374649" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">study</a> on people completing a 40-minute task on the computer, exposure to negative air ions reduced stress and anxiety and improved performance. The performance for the task was slightly but significantly improved by the presence of negative air ions. These results suggest that negative air ions are effective for the reduction of and the prompt recovery from stress caused by computer operation. (Source: Effect of negative air ions on computer operation.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">"Studies demonstrate that negative ions can definitely benefit people suffering from seasonal depression (SAD), and may help other forms of depression too."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bonus Reasons</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">They are beautiful conversation pieces and are an environmentally friendly light source.The base of an HPS lamp is generally carved from a sustainable wood such as neem. Some lamps use a low-wattage bulb which consumes very little energy while others are powered by a lit candle. Every Himalayan crystal salt lamp is unique and the combination of colors that makes up each one can vary. Generally, the darker shades of pink and orange are considered to be of higher quality. Very light pink, especially with black deposits visible within it, can be a sign that it was mined from a lower quality vein of crystal salt. Generally, the weight of a salt lamp is a good indication of its size and air cleaning ability. The bigger and heavier it is, the more health benefits should be noticed from it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Use these salt lamp sizes as a rough guide:</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Work area/small office/cubicle/desk: a smaller crystal salt lamp around 5 pounds is good if located close to you in smaller spaces.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For small bedrooms, up to 10 square feet: a Himalayan salt lamp around 6 – 8 pounds.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For a larger bedroom, kitchen or small lounge room: a salt lamp between 9 – 11 pounds.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For larger spaces/office environments, where there is more electromagnetic radiation: a large Himalayan salt lamp, at least 12 or more pounds is more effective.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Interested in purchasing salt lamps?</span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1Mih2Fg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On Amazon</span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.himalayansaltshop.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Himalayan Salt Shop</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was not compensated for this review. I bought the salt lamp, liked it, wrote about it.</span></span></div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-59649449496598865182016-03-29T09:45:00.003-05:002016-03-29T09:45:44.316-05:00Groupon: All Stars, iPlay, Pinot's Pallette, Showboat<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-4371383-10949977-1399573917000?url=https://www.groupon.com/deals/pinot-s-palette-katy-1?" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinot's Palette</a></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<h1 class="deal-page-title" id="deal-title" itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: OpenSans, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: large;">$25 for a Three-Hour BYOB Painting Class for One at Pinot’s Palette ($45 Value)</span></h1>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-4371383-10949977-1399573917000?url=https://www.groupon.com/deals/wallypark-houston-hobby?" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Valet at Wally Park</a></span></div>
<div>
<h1 class="deal-page-title" id="deal-title" itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: OpenSans, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: large;">$4.50 for One Day of Uncovered Valet Parking at Houston Hobby at WallyPark ($8.95 Value). Up to 7 Days.</span></h1>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-4371383-10949977-1399573917000?url=https://www.groupon.com/deals/the-showboat-drive-in-1-4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Showboat Drive in</a></span></div>
<div>
<h1 class="deal-page-title" id="deal-title" itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: OpenSans, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: large;">$16 for Admission to Movies for Two at The Showboat Drive-in ($23.25 Value)</span></h1>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-4371383-10949977-1399573917000?url=https://www.groupon.com/deals/all-stars-family-grill-4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">All Stars Grill</a></span></div>
<div>
<h1 class="deal-page-title" id="deal-title" itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: OpenSans, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: large;">$9 for $16 Worth of American Comfort Food at All Stars Family Grill</span></h1>
<h1 class="deal-page-title" id="deal-title" itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: OpenSans, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></h1>
<h1 class="deal-page-title" id="deal-title" itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: OpenSans, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-4371383-10949977-1399573917000?url=https://www.groupon.com/deals/iplay-sugar-land" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">iPlay open playin Sugar Land</span></a></h1>
</div>
<div>
<h1 class="deal-page-title" id="deal-title" itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: OpenSans, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Three or Five Open-Play Sessions at iPlay Sugar Land (Up to 39% Off)</span></h1>
</div>
</div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-47120437067267199362016-03-15T13:32:00.000-05:002016-03-15T13:32:20.892-05:00eMeals is what's for dinner.<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of the areas I wanted to focus on for 2016 was better meal planning for our family. Our schedules are getting busier and some nights we are not even eating as a family. It is difficult to get a nutritious, healthy meal when you have very few options and most of them are fast food places. With meetings and activities, there is also little time to sit down at a restaurant just to get better options than a number 1 combo at whatever place has a drive through.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I chose <a href="http://emeals.com/invite/thao-powell" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>eMeals.com</b></a> for the menu plan options and the price.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Meal plans arrive via email or smart device app on Wednesday. Each menu plan contains 7 meals, a main dish and a side dish. A shopping list is included listing items needed for each meal. If you choose a particular store where you shop, the shopping list includes pricing. There is also a smart device app you can download. If a particular week does not appeal to you, you can use the app or log in to your account to change the menu plan. The bonus is that you also get the previous week's menu plan for the new plan you choose. Tip: viewing the plans in the app is so easy, I prefer looking at them on the app, if I decide to change my plan, I do it there, then I log in from my desktop and print/save the plan. Keep in mind that you won't get an email if you change the plan.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I already had a weekly dry erase board with days of the week. To start, I chose a menu plan based on the days of the week we were going to cook at home. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmsF2KGGfsUjmsfugl0NuqjeotfhBu3fIT6RTHMv5Glw2mq0-4v6rE86pJD_psO-e7ejmyo4LYBJDp0vBjfv6gwOoBqMPg696cX2rzJ6lD7Px_ujqiSnjOehj7VpqD6HZjxG2zWJa3OU/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmsF2KGGfsUjmsfugl0NuqjeotfhBu3fIT6RTHMv5Glw2mq0-4v6rE86pJD_psO-e7ejmyo4LYBJDp0vBjfv6gwOoBqMPg696cX2rzJ6lD7Px_ujqiSnjOehj7VpqD6HZjxG2zWJa3OU/s320/FullSizeRender+%25287%2529.jpg" width="247" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhvO_xELVBnL2Bzf-NNWpzZ_arJTGiN7fk3mIgtqFB8bvMHmKfLcFJQTv5ZhIH93EzFSjmPOt-4ZrilLzg_sHnR_OGvDxJCk0kfw5XYggI0xhdlsk8UC7z343FWMPOy6_R8Gh-ZhnUi4/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhvO_xELVBnL2Bzf-NNWpzZ_arJTGiN7fk3mIgtqFB8bvMHmKfLcFJQTv5ZhIH93EzFSjmPOt-4ZrilLzg_sHnR_OGvDxJCk0kfw5XYggI0xhdlsk8UC7z343FWMPOy6_R8Gh-ZhnUi4/s320/FullSizeRender+%25286%2529.jpg" width="278" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsnlfER4Hm-c2vRY-u7Wt956rbM11YElHvapbQVI3RX7CLudJYERPZJj1CFUcMCK8E3112W9BdPnPzcoLJQWLEUZLs4MFJdYPals-i7VOY8c7hkAWOUtcyei_ESm97NKY-LCuN7tNcNeA/s1600/IMG_5478.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsnlfER4Hm-c2vRY-u7Wt956rbM11YElHvapbQVI3RX7CLudJYERPZJj1CFUcMCK8E3112W9BdPnPzcoLJQWLEUZLs4MFJdYPals-i7VOY8c7hkAWOUtcyei_ESm97NKY-LCuN7tNcNeA/s320/IMG_5478.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> First time ever eating Brussels sprouts and cooking with artichoke.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">PROS:</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Inexpensive program to buy into. $69 for a year. With the potential for 365 meal ideas, that comes to $.19 per recipe.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You save the pdf file and you can print the shopping list as many times as you need.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ability to create freezer meals or do a meal dump.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A chance to try foods you may not normally include in your family meals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you don't like a particular list for that week, you can switch it to another plan. No limit to switching.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are options for breakfast, lunch, dessert, and special occasions.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Smart device app gives you the ability to take your shopping list with you.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">CONS:</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There is some duplication in menus. If you choose more than one plan, keep that in mind. I don't know what kind of duplication will take place year after year. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It would be nice to have pricing on all the weekly plans so that I have an idea on food budget for that week or month.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We have been using the meal plans for the last 2 months and I have to say I am glad for this service. My hubs gets to be involved in the meal choices, the list is practically made, I just have to add the household grocery list. The kids like seeing what is on the menu so they can complain about eating it before the plate is placed in front of them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you want to try <a href="http://emeals.com/invite/thao-powell" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>eMeals</b></a>, you can choose from a variety of menu plans. If you get a plan one week and you don't care for the majority of the recipes, you can select another plan.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYFatsuaRaMPFfmSxCdS0HlqNKyCKT9PQA7TsIyU-b3uuteIBoB_FkCNpRXSA_pTAJfj6_rdA4pdWvvegKn9lrUjuXwb7VCHM6dskbuvSLD6vvNN4Z7j6OU9NOVzkst8rJQzMP1RtuNU/s1600/emeal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYFatsuaRaMPFfmSxCdS0HlqNKyCKT9PQA7TsIyU-b3uuteIBoB_FkCNpRXSA_pTAJfj6_rdA4pdWvvegKn9lrUjuXwb7VCHM6dskbuvSLD6vvNN4Z7j6OU9NOVzkst8rJQzMP1RtuNU/s640/emeal.jpg" width="499" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-4371383-10949977-1399573917000?url=https://www.groupon.com/deals/emeals-12-houston" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Groupon</b></a> currently has a deal for <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-4371383-10949977-1399573917000?url=https://www.groupon.com/deals/emeals-12-houston" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>eMeals</b></a>. </span><br />
<h4 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-size: 24px; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Choose from Three Options</span></h4>
<ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding-left: 20px;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">6 months of weekly online dinner plans (a $59 value)</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">6 months of weekly online lunch and dinner plans (a $83 value)</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">6 months of weekly online breakfast, lunch, and dinner plans (a $101 value)</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was not compensated for this review. I bought the bottle, liked it, wrote about it.</span></span></div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-32841931969393573972016-03-11T13:41:00.000-06:002016-03-11T13:41:26.241-06:00My first IF: Table<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6Q1ulYs-8lO69lQXZ1hOxVqgGPNyDsunO2wrRU9DUceVqWEEuvzZJ8W_BBUY9YNgXvXaJFDX-s4vqeWPLM4Hi3rqRYFvpv-1pdOcu9AtTpQj87lAc1eyjREzMbHeJUsuAg1tC5NxFXo/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6Q1ulYs-8lO69lQXZ1hOxVqgGPNyDsunO2wrRU9DUceVqWEEuvzZJ8W_BBUY9YNgXvXaJFDX-s4vqeWPLM4Hi3rqRYFvpv-1pdOcu9AtTpQj87lAc1eyjREzMbHeJUsuAg1tC5NxFXo/s320/download.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What is <a href="https://ifgathering.com/new-to-the-table/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">If:Table</a>?</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #423836; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A place to gather women and share a simple meal and dive deep with people over real stories and Christ centered conversations. A time for a whole lot of laughter – and maybe a few tears – but time spent that leaves us with glad hearts. Full hearts. Grateful hearts.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #423836; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The vision is</span></span></div>
<div class="center" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #423836; font-size: 16px; line-height: 16px; margin: 0px auto; text-align: center;">
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 800; line-height: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6 women</span></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 800; line-height: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4 questions</span></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 800; line-height: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 hours</span></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(Acts 2:46)</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I heard about IF: Table when I attended a local IF: Gathering in February. It was such and emotional event for me and I am still trying to wrap my head around all that I given. I was inspired to continue my faith journey and reached out to a neighborhood friend, Tiffany. It was something she has been wanting to do ever since she attended a Gathering last year. Rather than invite those we knew in the neighborhood and who we were comfortable being around, we decided to post it in our neighborhood group and see who God called to us. <span style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;">What a wonderful surprise when we saw so many women interested in attending. </span></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXst07c-B7Ye8RN04A2hX6y7ULJ1_YTgl8VDb0u0YE8eua-Pk2YcrwjytZwbTOBWxSJvEopQV2vKcF_rY3gmtHmkFnCVbbButvHjaT9bG3s51iaFe8-59BdpI6ANOB7x2j4g88dtGpaA8/s1600/tableMarch.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXst07c-B7Ye8RN04A2hX6y7ULJ1_YTgl8VDb0u0YE8eua-Pk2YcrwjytZwbTOBWxSJvEopQV2vKcF_rY3gmtHmkFnCVbbButvHjaT9bG3s51iaFe8-59BdpI6ANOB7x2j4g88dtGpaA8/s320/tableMarch.png" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We made it a potluck and asked others to bring a dish or items to share: <span style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;">Appetizer/Starter, Main, Side, Bread, Dessert, Drink. I wish I had taken a picture of Tiffany's beautiful table scape and of the group of beautiful ladies who attended. It's such a neat feeling to be able to meet someone for the first time and be able to chat like you have known them for years. The conversations definitely changed tone once we started asking the questions posted for March with the theme centered around loneliness. </span><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">Be prepared to answer some tough questions.</span><span style="line-height: 22.4px;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQf9OGrPfzkUPqQ-PBXvJv6Cs674qU6iqGbqxubuQUAW_5oJRv4nc1muliG2UT3RwHaPrDhH3999V923MNe4QsFYE9dRQ5C2bL67HkxqcwpLravTibrr5_YOUoP-af7nkmxqXpVT-fZc/s1600/if.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQf9OGrPfzkUPqQ-PBXvJv6Cs674qU6iqGbqxubuQUAW_5oJRv4nc1muliG2UT3RwHaPrDhH3999V923MNe4QsFYE9dRQ5C2bL67HkxqcwpLravTibrr5_YOUoP-af7nkmxqXpVT-fZc/s320/if.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What did I learn from If: Table?</span></b></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{Plan your IF: Table} I would highly recommend planning or attending an IF: Table to any women embarking on a spiritual journey, whether you are just starting out or have been on the path for some time. Even if you have not started the journey, this is still an event for you.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{Venture out of your usual circle of friends} Once we leave school, it becomes harder to meet and make lasting friendships. You also grow as an individual and the friends you had in grade school, high school and college may not grow along with you. </span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{Keep it simple} There is no need to go all out for this event. Use paper plates and cups. Buy pre-made dishes if you don't have time to make something. Dress in your comfiest leggings. Don't stress about the condition of your home. Not everyone lives in a model home.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{Stay on Course} Once you start opening up, it is easy to want to continue talking about your answers. Be sure to allow the other women an opportunity to discuss their answers to the questions. If you feel a connection to other women, schedule time for a one-on-one meet up.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{Don't judge a book by its cover} We prejudge and form opinions about others that might prevent us from seeking new friendships. It's easy to find surface friends; you meet someone, you talk about topics you may have in common, hobbies, kids, movies, etc. You might think, "Wow, we have so much in common, she likes blue M&Ms, I like blue M&Ms, I can see us being bosom buddies" or maybe "Good Golly, this chick is bonkers with her crocheting cat sweaters!" But in order to find deep, friendships, you have to dig deeper. Look past the surface. You may find that lifelong friend who will come over with a bag of blue M&Ms and some yarn and you can both crochet cat sweaters.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{Be open and communicate} The questions can be difficult to process and answer. If you are going through some tough times, there will be some tearful talks. Be prepared with tissue and hugs. </span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{It's cathartic} As much as you may not want to divulge personal information, especially to strangers, it is amazing freeing to be able to talk about the issues that are troubling you. You will be surprised how many others are walking the same path and dealing with similar hardships. This is one event you want to make sure is a no technology zone. </span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;">If you are interested in starting your own If: Table, you can find all the info and download the questions on the </span><a href="https://ifgathering.com/table/" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;" target="_blank">If: Table page</a><span style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;">. </span><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/search/boards/?q=IF+TABLE" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a><span style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;"> has so many ideas you can use to make it as simple or as elaborate as you want. You can also follow my board, </span><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/thao_powell/anchored-in-faith/" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;" target="_blank">Anchored in Faith</a><span style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4;">.</span></span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; font-size: 1em; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 1rem; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcxptJtwk3hFrT_NjqbfIvANMQ4LkzEvQdi3zsU8MFPooZxCsgBt8Hqxn7pyyiwN79v6nHwTQDv6JnIDPjRrH8Z6iyGg2tlWHAceU7vLOxkOohFYhZ8pa0MHrFJBOJfFVP9zRsXLpCEw/s1600/iftable-dec15.png" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcxptJtwk3hFrT_NjqbfIvANMQ4LkzEvQdi3zsU8MFPooZxCsgBt8Hqxn7pyyiwN79v6nHwTQDv6JnIDPjRrH8Z6iyGg2tlWHAceU7vLOxkOohFYhZ8pa0MHrFJBOJfFVP9zRsXLpCEw/s320/iftable-dec15.png" width="320" /></span></a></div>
</div>
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-51780614281608634822016-02-27T16:34:00.000-06:002016-03-03T16:15:38.902-06:00Glasstic is fantasticWater bottles are something I never put much thought into. The bottle just needed to hold my drinks. I had a plastic one from Walmart for almost and year and it was double insulated and kept my drink cold. But I dropped it one too many times and I had to get a new one. The next one was from 5 Below and it came with a freezable core that was supposed to keep my water cold. That ended up being a bust too because it sweat more than a hot yoga instructor and it was too big to fit in a drink holder.<br />
<br />
I decided it was time to invest in a good bottle. I sometimes add citrus essential oils to my water so the bottle I got needed to be glass. But who wanted to carry a big, heavy glass bottle around fearful it might drop and shatter?<br />
<br />
Then I saw a FB post about <a href="http://affiliates.glassticwaterbottle.com/coupons/index/oid:22187_354" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Glasstic</a> with a coupon code for 10% off. and decided to try the <a href="https://www.glassticwaterbottle.com/#oid=22187_354" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Value Pack</a> for $20. It ended up being $18 with free shipping, not a bad deal for a glass water bottle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJgj36YIbVfez4gSo3CuSwFpmEZfFXw1Icz6I0FhrKSbqUKs6Z9R3YNTQltAPuPY2IGEg7i5ATMsTIkaUii995qLFk_yn96Qsw5sUH1SdKyJkcKdFxKSb1sL2cDcz2Z2ZUPJFpvO8IWU/s1600/aa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJgj36YIbVfez4gSo3CuSwFpmEZfFXw1Icz6I0FhrKSbqUKs6Z9R3YNTQltAPuPY2IGEg7i5ATMsTIkaUii995qLFk_yn96Qsw5sUH1SdKyJkcKdFxKSb1sL2cDcz2Z2ZUPJFpvO8IWU/s320/aa.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>What I like about Glasstic:</b><br />
The glass bottle is encased in plastic making it insulated and will not sweat.<br />
Lightweight<br />
Locking mechanism for the cap<br />
Slim design makes it easy to carry<br />
Fits in most cup holders<br />
Dishwasher safe<br />
Handle allows you to attach it to your bag or belt loop<br />
Shatterproof (watch the video of the dropped bottle)<br />
The wrap designs are removable, replaceable and laminated to change the look of your bottle.<br />
Different bottle colors and designs to give each member of your family their own style.<br />
<br />
<b>Things I did not like about the bottle:</b><br />
Only 16 oz. If you drink lots more, it's a lot of refilling.<br />
The spout opening is awkward and took me a bit to not drink and drip. (I am clumsy that way)<br />
<br />
Use GLASSTIC10 for 10% off<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.glassticwaterbottle.com/faqs/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Glasstic FAQs</a><br />
<a href="http://www.glassticwaterbottle.com/articles/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Glasstic Articles</a><br />
<br />
I was not compensated for this review. I bought the bottle, liked it, wrote about it.Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-49106098542205206782014-08-25T11:36:00.002-05:002014-08-25T11:36:53.950-05:00The one where it's just the beginningThis day seemed so far away. I thought I would have plenty of time to prepare for it. But what seemed like eons ago when I first held their tiny 4 lbs 6.5 ounces and 3 lbs 3 ounces bodies or on their first day of daycare, was really only 5 years ago. Five years that sped by in the blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8mA6FweNQLGBPJBg4jdi2NAt4gibrVQs1GuTSMM6ekLCFQYe_RGPvjb8MCvSW_vv-mulXghi5ni9_8os0OX2Fjyad67sLvU6ZwbE5R1QUTzlcQcBeJiDwJxCtjXCtx4C0GugmiVYMos/s1600/29315_1332613233330_7302855_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8mA6FweNQLGBPJBg4jdi2NAt4gibrVQs1GuTSMM6ekLCFQYe_RGPvjb8MCvSW_vv-mulXghi5ni9_8os0OX2Fjyad67sLvU6ZwbE5R1QUTzlcQcBeJiDwJxCtjXCtx4C0GugmiVYMos/s1600/29315_1332613233330_7302855_n.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Today is the first day of kindergarten for my boys, no longer babies, physically and mentally, but babies in my eyes. And really forever. No matter how long you have, you are never really prepared for what you kids can do to you. No matter how strong you think you are emotionally, you never know when you stomach will be in knots or a flood of tears will overtake you and you are left with a pile of tissue smeared with all your makeup and your husband looking at you like you are Rocky Balboa screaming "ADRIAN!"<br />
<br />
The hubs and I walked the boys to their classroom. Both Dean and Sam exclaiming how excited they were for kindergarten. They are no stranger to being left in the care of others. They have been going to daycare since they were 15 months. They have been in separate classrooms since they were 3. They know the drill. To them it is just a different school with new friends to meet. They have no separation anxiety and no fears. Much unlike their mom on this first day.<br />
<br />
The boys settled into their seats and we said our goodbyes. We went to the tears and tissue room where the PTO prepared these tear worthy packets. I met other moms and surprisingly, no one was in tears. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirDug4RWM654YbKvUGRgOKn6e2oLrEP-QsnelcwchYVw0S991hKZTpekTxE4bKblC8dvC8lRApImdZJ64aXmy6sHRWoPjEV7NEeU8caLbzjbMkO0uk1oURebS4Em8Q0smL08MxWXXDBuo/s1600/10625128_10203318480660702_9103904563673077749_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirDug4RWM654YbKvUGRgOKn6e2oLrEP-QsnelcwchYVw0S991hKZTpekTxE4bKblC8dvC8lRApImdZJ64aXmy6sHRWoPjEV7NEeU8caLbzjbMkO0uk1oURebS4Em8Q0smL08MxWXXDBuo/s1600/10625128_10203318480660702_9103904563673077749_n.jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As the hubs and I walked out the door, and closed behind us, I was hit with the realization that this was it. The start of their school journey, no going back. Up until this point, I kept it together but once in the car, the waterworks flowed. The hubs asked why I was crying now and not in the boohoo room. He told me that they will be fine. They weren't tears from worrying about their safety or well being. It wasn't from worry if they will do well or make friends. They weren't even tears that they were growing up so fast and that the years grow shorter until they they will leave the nest. My tears were from gratefulness that God allowed me to be their mom. That he thought me worthy enough to care for such amazing kids. Mine were tears of happiness because they are the best things that have ever happened to me. So this is my wish for them as they embark on their journey.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1fFIPRaONIadxWjEQW4F54qGBPHfvx_KcbS658i_7tFpUWz2dHnuxhS7T0PGyor3A-aXAeT2M7i2cJLkyx2ZFbPQUQnZQ4Ko5uu0cmBG1iYfyUTr4jJQmrNAafckrNSSLtGmZP75QaU/s1600/7bc86f51deab1db92e6807ef1db4f86e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1fFIPRaONIadxWjEQW4F54qGBPHfvx_KcbS658i_7tFpUWz2dHnuxhS7T0PGyor3A-aXAeT2M7i2cJLkyx2ZFbPQUQnZQ4Ko5uu0cmBG1iYfyUTr4jJQmrNAafckrNSSLtGmZP75QaU/s1600/7bc86f51deab1db92e6807ef1db4f86e.jpg" height="315" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just the beginning...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOTkbyDwlUY7mdKwVCeBJjUg9UEhQQIz4kP5qpSsutAl2YPAezbVRtKzJaxsXCwqmclbettA7rZVaAzAE-I1lE_qZw3HarXDRjih__eZ67gaFoZN5UZ6HrMpsKMfWlTH3Y-3jHyUJ9pE/s1600/photo(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOTkbyDwlUY7mdKwVCeBJjUg9UEhQQIz4kP5qpSsutAl2YPAezbVRtKzJaxsXCwqmclbettA7rZVaAzAE-I1lE_qZw3HarXDRjih__eZ67gaFoZN5UZ6HrMpsKMfWlTH3Y-3jHyUJ9pE/s1600/photo(3).JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNLckxgm3LpiyHzDlkRpId6whtAPH9av5PsBNgc92nkJ3qCu1gmP-JGqnO9tQ6VvjPPW1yOqwQ9yGQELx82pzJLp6dB2PnpAJzHRbn7xCKupJ2XbhFTZtIjO8B0DEyJDloYfInVVqcL8g/s1600/photo(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNLckxgm3LpiyHzDlkRpId6whtAPH9av5PsBNgc92nkJ3qCu1gmP-JGqnO9tQ6VvjPPW1yOqwQ9yGQELx82pzJLp6dB2PnpAJzHRbn7xCKupJ2XbhFTZtIjO8B0DEyJDloYfInVVqcL8g/s1600/photo(5).JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyK9ovSnLf2TY2vdXD_5WpLIsBXZ0HCanoUllk2sds6C5OPmv0KpAcC1QpMLMzbjHesPaQ_Lnttdb5aIug0GsgQlVtUsaaJanWnTNGusZycJP0bPRGg4cCjyFg5eD1vA6uW6JRqPJmjS8/s1600/photo(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyK9ovSnLf2TY2vdXD_5WpLIsBXZ0HCanoUllk2sds6C5OPmv0KpAcC1QpMLMzbjHesPaQ_Lnttdb5aIug0GsgQlVtUsaaJanWnTNGusZycJP0bPRGg4cCjyFg5eD1vA6uW6JRqPJmjS8/s1600/photo(4).JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-50856457778854695142014-06-17T13:23:00.001-05:002014-06-17T13:23:07.977-05:00Back in BowlI have not updated much about our embryo donation and adoption. In January, three of our embryos were thawed for transfer. Although there was an initial positive pregnancy test, her HCG levels continued to drop and resulted in an early miscarriage. <br />
<br />
I was so saddened to hear of this news. A and W planned for a May transfer. Their doctor decided to go with embryos that were further along in development so it was decided that our remaining embryos would not be used. <br />
<br />
Last Friday, which happened to be the 13th, our caseworker told me there was not a successful pregnancy achieved. This has been their 3rd transfer since last November. I am devastated for this couple. I cannot begin to imagine what they have been enduring, especially A having to go through several tests, shots, and hormonal changes. Then having to endure heartbreak after heartbreak with each failed transfer. They are doing any more transfers and look into traditional adoption after they take some time off. <br />
<br />
I have provided my email to them in hopes that one day, A and W might want to reach out. They have no ties to me but I feel a small connection with them and would love to see their dream of a family come to fruition. As for our remaining embryos, there are two left. I don't know that they will ever be adopted. And I don't know how I feel about it at the moment. <br />
<br />
This is not meant to be a sad post about embryo donation and adoption. I am still very glad that we have chosen this method of giving. Even though it was not a success, I feel honored that we helped this couple in some way and gave them a glimmer of hope.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-41350478251743060342013-12-16T16:15:00.001-06:002013-12-16T16:15:35.114-06:00Friday the 13th - A good day for a tat.Great friends are one of life's hidden gems. They encourage you, they share your special moments and they laugh their asses off when you scream "Holy &*%$#@" because the tattoo you thought was a good idea right on your rib, ends up feeling like you are being pecked to death by a mechanical woodpecker. On Redbull.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8KZYWKdKBEdCgVJ9j6BgMq0m3tI6uvgZGkSjnZpyd0-i2E26EXf9lCetY8kQPnNejGRIhd2BgPJScIhEpj_E5muwigqqJt9GiEj22RyUMQv6lHDmj748MQwLz_BT_3nedYc4hsAa7F5w/s1600/photo(13).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8KZYWKdKBEdCgVJ9j6BgMq0m3tI6uvgZGkSjnZpyd0-i2E26EXf9lCetY8kQPnNejGRIhd2BgPJScIhEpj_E5muwigqqJt9GiEj22RyUMQv6lHDmj748MQwLz_BT_3nedYc4hsAa7F5w/s1600/photo(13).JPG" height="320" width="219" /></a></div>
<br />
<center>
Is that an F bomb straining to escape my lips?</center>
<center>
</center>
I have thought about getting one for a few months. Since my 40th birthday to be exact and I added a tattoo to my bucket list. So when my friend Roxy said she wanted another one, we decided to make a night of it. My other friend came along for support and wanted to get one too. But she shall remain nameless.<br />
<br />
But what R did not know is that I got cold feet and was not planning on getting one. That's a sucky thing for a friend to do, right? But being a good friend, she talked me into it and even bought my tattoo as a gift for me. I had no idea what I wanted anymore in terms of a design. But I knew if I got anything, it would incorporate my kids. <br />
<br />
Since my other friend was starting to get cold feet, I told her I would go first. Well, we ended up getting ours at the same time anyway. There was a lot of moaning and wincing going on and we were in near tears. If only I had a piece of leather to bite down on.<br />
<br />
<br />
I am happy that I got it. It was so much fun hanging with my friends and now we have bonded over tats. I am sure years down the road we will call each other up and ask how the tats are doing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7g-we_JGAAV8WsTRishBajIvtCtSv7-KfmqOZh4b1p-WstdMeWPVFs8-5o_1cBiDpCYoeLsrG8nbhLUEp-tfByaIbQ_SHLBL4vPAKeB1XIIpr2b-1n5HgDm1GJUrV9piBJpECkZD-z7o/s1600/photo(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7g-we_JGAAV8WsTRishBajIvtCtSv7-KfmqOZh4b1p-WstdMeWPVFs8-5o_1cBiDpCYoeLsrG8nbhLUEp-tfByaIbQ_SHLBL4vPAKeB1XIIpr2b-1n5HgDm1GJUrV9piBJpECkZD-z7o/s1600/photo(1).JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And if you are wondering, it hurts like a $%&%^&(^&(*())*(()*(_)&^%$%#$@#@#%!!!!!!!!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdK63CPCe3nyWnFDtis-6T-WLdoLhWMYnkdrEGXrr-D4BktyqjejahaPWbq9TBI3oyEChvQRt41BLCmMQJD9phW8OH4gl1UZHO8DUiKSZlbqirZhk6RxTcgVW7ez6Xv-CCSjJu9HOOLY/s1600/IMG_6828.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdK63CPCe3nyWnFDtis-6T-WLdoLhWMYnkdrEGXrr-D4BktyqjejahaPWbq9TBI3oyEChvQRt41BLCmMQJD9phW8OH4gl1UZHO8DUiKSZlbqirZhk6RxTcgVW7ez6Xv-CCSjJu9HOOLY/s1600/IMG_6828.jpeg" /></a></div>
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-3948283012247830112013-11-19T12:11:00.001-06:002013-11-19T12:11:24.277-06:00Donation and Adoption <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjflQ-G_Qw8zEN2DGhY-0ytpww4rrRMQh2YRUYs9UelyGdvt12itlgg2qhCvmsPHPzt1-zH2JkgzoL3Of_Z24nuA3l2i75CU4bWO0XrZpJpRu_sju9KqMk8gR9fGH3JmNVl5lQng0-JYAU/s1600/Beauty-of-Pregnancy-570x381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjflQ-G_Qw8zEN2DGhY-0ytpww4rrRMQh2YRUYs9UelyGdvt12itlgg2qhCvmsPHPzt1-zH2JkgzoL3Of_Z24nuA3l2i75CU4bWO0XrZpJpRu_sju9KqMk8gR9fGH3JmNVl5lQng0-JYAU/s1600/Beauty-of-Pregnancy-570x381.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The transfer is tomorrow.<br />
When I reread that, I get a flutter in my stomach.<br />
And a tightening in my throat.<br />
Then I feel the urge to cry.<br />
<br />
If all goes as planned, my last five embryos will have been thawed and the select few will be transferred to a new family. I pray that it is a successful transfer. No matter if they were my embryos or another donor couple's, I pray this couple gets to experience what they have been wishing, hoping and praying for the last 8 years.<br />
<br />
When I tell people about what we decided to do, I get responses that range from awe to curiosity. But in every instance, I am told that we have given this couple a wonderful gift from this selfless act.<br />
But what I don't tell people is that it was not all selfless.<br />
<br />
I did this for me. I wanted the peace of mind that those embryos would help another couple. I hated the fact that I could not keep them and might possibly expand out family. I no longer have the worry of what would become of them.<br />
<br />
I did this for my kids. I have always wanted more kids but it was not in the cards for us. If any children result from our embryos, if they ever choose to seek us out, they are welcome to do so. I would love for Sam and Dean to get a chance to know their biological siblings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mA8n0NQXw6etwuwXBNztjLl_xsEkaqMuahS0X813qs0JGfusJBzrCZOa4_ds-5WeolDc8NQR9Yz7YiBblalZFt7j5A0kzi9V4juJYE6dFW18TvZ305x0XNcf8JugE3VmWd_er3ZrRIY/s1600/Praying-for-Life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mA8n0NQXw6etwuwXBNztjLl_xsEkaqMuahS0X813qs0JGfusJBzrCZOa4_ds-5WeolDc8NQR9Yz7YiBblalZFt7j5A0kzi9V4juJYE6dFW18TvZ305x0XNcf8JugE3VmWd_er3ZrRIY/s1600/Praying-for-Life.jpg" height="316" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If anyone you know might be interested in learning about embryo donation and adoption, feel free to message me. Here are a couple articles about it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://embryodonation.wordpress.com/2013/09/09/the-beginning-of-embryo-donation-and-adoption/" target="_blank">The Beginning of Embryo Donation and Adoption</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://news.msn.com/science-technology/long-frozen-embryo-brings-joy-to-adoptive-parents" target="_blank">Long-frozen embryo brings joy to adoptive parents</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://embryodonation.wordpress.com/2013/11/19/another-family-created-and-donated-the-embryos-to-your-family-but-this-is-your-child/" target="_blank">Another Family Created and Donated the Embryos to your family, But this is Your Child!</a><br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-80861145180722768872013-11-12T13:14:00.001-06:002013-11-19T12:12:02.324-06:00Sometimes, you have to send your cape out for alterations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm No Superman
by Lazlo Bane </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/o1wtyW__5O8/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/o1wtyW__5O8&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/o1wtyW__5O8&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br />
I'm certainly no Superman. Sometimes I think I'm Wonder Woman but really wish I could be Zatanna, Raven and Black Canary all rolled into one. With a sprinkling of Black Widow for good measure.<br />
<br />
The last few weeks have been stressful. <br />
The kids were sick. Not at the same time mind you. There were 4 days where I had one or the other at my work place. The first day would be fine but the second day, the little buggers would not sit still or use their inside voice. Then I got sick.<br />
<br />
Sinus infection, coughing, headaches. Last week was unbearable. Last Thursday (Halloween), I started my downward spiral. I was like Lindsay Lohan, popping pills for the sinus pressure and pain and the migraines. I had to take the last migraine pill in my possession that day. This was the last pill that I had nursed and coveted since September. I said to myself that if my migraine does not go away, I am screwed. Friday, I was screwed.<br />
<br />
I made my way to the Urgent Care Clinic. They took my blood pressure and it was a whopping 170/110.<br />
Wait. What???!<br />
They asked if I was on BP medication.<br />
No.<br />
Did I normally have bp issues?<br />
No. I am in a lot of pain so that might be the cause.<br />
Possibly. But that is still really high. Make an appointment with your doctor.<br />
(or you're gonna die. dun, dun, DUN!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eoTb-4b2BH3Zumnyfa6lI5fKMAe4_3veiH4laWWSN-5tnrVJMKyHwQ4PZ5pPwmzfeufld4YzseQ5gFV90BIDKzx-vcZCiHHgpbtJjYScdnWcCugEGPJYYl1s_FQUUSD9p9W5soIVFOk/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eoTb-4b2BH3Zumnyfa6lI5fKMAe4_3veiH4laWWSN-5tnrVJMKyHwQ4PZ5pPwmzfeufld4YzseQ5gFV90BIDKzx-vcZCiHHgpbtJjYScdnWcCugEGPJYYl1s_FQUUSD9p9W5soIVFOk/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, that's what I was thinking.<br />
<br />
<br />
I got a shot at urgent care for my migraine and nausea. I got a refill for my migraine meds. I made an appointment with my doc. Even though I went through the weekend still in a drug induced haze and feeling slightly better, I continued to feel like I would drop dead any minute. What if I had a hard attack or a stroke while I was driving the kids? What if I was home with them and all of a sudden I was gone? Just those thoughts alone, I am sure elevated my blood pressure even more.<br />
<br />
I tried the whole weekend to remain calm, to mellow out and be one with nature.<br />
I saw the GP last Monday and my BP was 178/118. Seriously?<br />
I might as well have tried to make the Statue of Liberty disappear.
Trying not to be stressed is the impossible magic trick for me. I ask the doc what I can do to help with my BP besides the meds. Stay calm. Again, cutting a women in half would be 100 times easier.<br />
<br />
I am now taking blood pressure medicine. I'm 40 years old and my age is catching up to my 20 year old spirit. Last Tuesday was my lowest point. Not only was my migraine back but it was worse than ever. I was nauseated, I could barely walk, talk or open my eyes. My chest was so tight, I felt like 50 sumo wrestlers were sitting on me. And not in a good way. I felt I was knocking on death's door and wished he would open it just to put me out of my misery. <br />
<br />
<br />
I rarely ask for help and I never let on that I am NOT superhuman but I felt I needed to be lifted up. Facebook is good for rallying friends. So I broke down and asked for prayers. When I woke from my coma, I was greeted with so much caring and concern. It could have been the second pill I popped but I like to think it was all the prayers and positive vibes sent my way that alleviated my pain.<br />
<br />
There have been lots of crying and reevaluating. Even a fight with the hubs thrown in to really test my strength. In the greater scheme of illnesses, this is so minor. Many people would love to have this as their health problem as opposed to more serious conditions or terminal illness. Even though it reads like one, this is not my pity party. But I'll still cry if I want to.<br />
<br />
It's ok NOT to do everything.<br />
It's ok NOT to be everything.<br />
It's ok NOT to be ok all the time. <br />
It's ok, to put yourself before others, even your kids.<br />
It's ok to ask for help.<br />
And it's certainly ok to send out your superhero cape to be altered every once in a while.<br />
You are still enough.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-ktphf5Oq_cv_QVFWwSBwD-1e3WhiMO5jBU1Ga4-L1piCDDjLBXZ4jYkPho1i3hasBvuag2PinwkktGN5CR1OsnRtO10LB7e0DisM_i5HLwORUrtHUNarxcUtb_RJp2g6xVH3QLfeXs/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-ktphf5Oq_cv_QVFWwSBwD-1e3WhiMO5jBU1Ga4-L1piCDDjLBXZ4jYkPho1i3hasBvuag2PinwkktGN5CR1OsnRtO10LB7e0DisM_i5HLwORUrtHUNarxcUtb_RJp2g6xVH3QLfeXs/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-27136748259363922802013-11-04T13:36:00.002-06:002013-11-19T12:12:25.396-06:00What kind of Asian are you?The kind that will karate chop yo ass into next Tet, haiku you to death and ask if you want quick set gel as part of your manicure.<br />
<br />
If only they asked me to do this video. She's an Asian after my own heart.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/DWynJkN5HbQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<center>
<b>Outtakes</b></center>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/9XNsWFYZZXI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<center>
<b>Actors read real comments from What Kind of Asian Are You?</b></center>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/S0QeIq6xt1U?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
If you are offended, "What the Pho?!!"Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-71041229129391832572013-09-12T16:37:00.000-05:002013-09-23T09:54:24.044-05:00Snakes on a Thao!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey, I just met you </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I'm so crazy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Asking if I could </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hold your snake, maybe?</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_ihuPiYi7-OWKydX1ZbHdp03cVX1U_rr_ngc5wUAPgW_kAIITQgFDXz6OwFKYsW2SqURwcmEzNGuq2DHTCU96vcBL4pkNhK31O6suIV_bGcnkWraw36q7u9B8zSAQh1tNUkO_qtADI4/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_ihuPiYi7-OWKydX1ZbHdp03cVX1U_rr_ngc5wUAPgW_kAIITQgFDXz6OwFKYsW2SqURwcmEzNGuq2DHTCU96vcBL4pkNhK31O6suIV_bGcnkWraw36q7u9B8zSAQh1tNUkO_qtADI4/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqWrJOF8SwGc3zMs2P4t3rzpaWYFJU6xQ3cKJsypY6s816L-xq9j796QV6dgfC77jYL17PSCE1uHTTe_MKlyoFkrRF2cK_sx_QlBKUTMvNU0wV0vrLsY8s2-bcEJ_k2_ZAx4zWQ3mpmw/s1600/photo%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqWrJOF8SwGc3zMs2P4t3rzpaWYFJU6xQ3cKJsypY6s816L-xq9j796QV6dgfC77jYL17PSCE1uHTTe_MKlyoFkrRF2cK_sx_QlBKUTMvNU0wV0vrLsY8s2-bcEJ_k2_ZAx4zWQ3mpmw/s1600/photo%25283%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsR_sVQxQIjldtHDlyQxaZVW7uEE38Gwt3hh1gx7eooSk-UF9PJ0L9prFhQ4petXMCaM3iscdwtVi5R3aXDLzf2yu-JkkvAdmqMPHp6GGiuHonNYIBcxy_XGntaXjIwpBufkFwxOhsRxs/s1600/photo%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsR_sVQxQIjldtHDlyQxaZVW7uEE38Gwt3hh1gx7eooSk-UF9PJ0L9prFhQ4petXMCaM3iscdwtVi5R3aXDLzf2yu-JkkvAdmqMPHp6GGiuHonNYIBcxy_XGntaXjIwpBufkFwxOhsRxs/s1600/photo%25284%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I participated in This Is Kingwood Vendor event with my Thirty-One gifts business and <a href="http://www.gatorrescue.com/" target="_blank">Gator Rescue</a> was two booths down from me. Wearing a reptile was never on my bucket list but it is now and NAILED IT! Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-65407707614460095292013-09-06T11:38:00.000-05:002013-09-06T11:38:49.156-05:00Butt-zitskies be gone!<br />
6 Reasons why butt pimples are more than just a pain in the a**<br />
<br />
1. You don't find out about them until you scrape the pimple with your finger in the shower or wipe it with a scratchy wad of un-quilted toilet paper. Then when you scream, you are in a compromising position when someone runs to check on you. <br />
<br />
2. You can't look at it without contorting your body in other compromising positions with the use of a large mirror. Then you may get the idea to use a smart phone or other recording device so you can take a picture and show your significant other because you don't want him/her actually LOOKING at your butt boil.<br />
<br />
3. There is absolutely NO way for you to pop that whitehead pustule or squeeze the offending blackhead without engaging in yet another compromising position. However, you will need a partner in crime to help you because you simply do not have enough hands or dexterity to hold your position and try to pop it.<br />
<br />
4. No matter how much your partner in crime loves and adores you, he/she really doesn't want to look at your crater and he/she most certainly does not want to touch, squeeze, poke or extract anything from that abscess. And goodness knows, never bring a needle within 4 inches of a bare bum please.<br />
<br />
5. You will never find the situation as funny as they will nor prevent them from 'cracking' jokes.<br />
<br />
6. Then when the procedure is through, you have this humongous red sore in your crack. No one wants to kiss the boo-boo and that band-aid with Angry birds on it just looks ridiculous. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzKAPnvcrAOPEI4OnoGC7ktdw0npAS7K6QWa9snjTW3iO5H-Za6MriFbUmivgh4q1xjxospqJLnXx7cw22kDGcJcyU8xtJG-5QIzA8JOjm8rJMJnV8MNb_LvcDMZBD_6JgLDosfm1NSk/s1600/index.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzKAPnvcrAOPEI4OnoGC7ktdw0npAS7K6QWa9snjTW3iO5H-Za6MriFbUmivgh4q1xjxospqJLnXx7cw22kDGcJcyU8xtJG-5QIzA8JOjm8rJMJnV8MNb_LvcDMZBD_6JgLDosfm1NSk/s1600/index.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-59089067131145339392013-09-03T11:07:00.002-05:002013-09-23T09:54:01.888-05:00The Day I Gave Them AwayAugust 6, 2013<br />
<br />
That is the date on the contract. Notarized and official. It is so strange to talk about embryos as property but that is how it is approached.<br />
<br />
W & A have now adopted our 5 embryos and their transfer date is scheduled for Sept 22. The door has closed on us ever getting them back. Not a day goes by that I don't pray for the entire process to be a success. From the thawing to the implantation, hoping it goes without a hitch.<br />
<br />
Once the process starts, we are supposed to get status updates about the embryos, how many thawed, if the transfer was successful and then periodic stats on the pregnancy, if any resulted from our embryos. The specifics are outlined in the contract. <br />
<br />
Six embryos is the ideal number to have for thawing since about 30-35% do not thaw successfully.<br />
Because of this, our embryos may be mixed with another donor's embryos. <br />
<br />
Whatever the outcome, I hope this works out for W & A.<br />
And I hope that we can become more than just recipient and donor. <br />
<br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-38296647427702650832013-08-20T17:01:00.003-05:002013-08-20T17:01:41.027-05:00Forty, shorty and bingoingI always thought that the mid life crisis was a myth. An excuse for middle aged men to buy a fancy sports car, have some sort of hair replacement procedure and find arm candy younger than their own kids. A time for middle aged women to start on their plastic surgery wish list, wear bright pink and purple hats with boas and walk around in high heals with a cocktail. Of course these are things I thought were true when I was much, much, much younger. Like <span class="st">"Macaulay Culkin" young in Home Alone before he got all Emo</span> and became a pothead.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROxshKV63bo2hZg3x5mWGbkL93DFcUZkJqBb98M_aPEdk7LexDD101TofT6F2gioQ0ToZJ1kia7shbezBHN5ErYBnDN_ZHWz7ZjJgrIYW0jMO3WoSxNmRGKWkj0rg4-NovLzeASUoyTw/s1600/roaring-twenties-title-still.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROxshKV63bo2hZg3x5mWGbkL93DFcUZkJqBb98M_aPEdk7LexDD101TofT6F2gioQ0ToZJ1kia7shbezBHN5ErYBnDN_ZHWz7ZjJgrIYW0jMO3WoSxNmRGKWkj0rg4-NovLzeASUoyTw/s1600/roaring-twenties-title-still.jpg" height="119" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My roaring twenties was really more of a hushed rush to finish school and start a career.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIi5pm29_J0SU1ANQ6x7TQxzGEat9Q6ljFjghJ74xfbS_sY6micNJblBuCkfoXFY8geq5X3s5ZU-TKAeRi09aB71MU7hZdZuKOuZydAJ7eXZs1hBoQv9k2AoS2BxU7Yqt57DX0eS7lkQ/s1600/thirtyflirty-300x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIi5pm29_J0SU1ANQ6x7TQxzGEat9Q6ljFjghJ74xfbS_sY6micNJblBuCkfoXFY8geq5X3s5ZU-TKAeRi09aB71MU7hZdZuKOuZydAJ7eXZs1hBoQv9k2AoS2BxU7Yqt57DX0eS7lkQ/s1600/thirtyflirty-300x200.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
My thirties were an odd mixture of flirty and thriving. Finding a new relationship, battling infertility and finally becoming a mom at a later age than I would have wished for.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYg9F5zGy7opdZ8mV694fgiy4Kx0FwltlCIVEQW706S69utuznIYs1Qld_zxshpr801sLf_hIU5srVVY3T4_9CRWWbY13cq9Sf_g9mhgqfjVzdEQKfLTKXyikSdpzTI6qmllSUpzyYGQ/s1600/73523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYg9F5zGy7opdZ8mV694fgiy4Kx0FwltlCIVEQW706S69utuznIYs1Qld_zxshpr801sLf_hIU5srVVY3T4_9CRWWbY13cq9Sf_g9mhgqfjVzdEQKfLTKXyikSdpzTI6qmllSUpzyYGQ/s1600/73523.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
Now that I have hit the big 40, I think about where I was, how far I have come and where I'm headed. I am more comfortable in my own skin, even if parts are stretched out and flabbier than a 90 year old's triceps. I'm still learning new things, meeting new people and staying active. And by active, I do not mean running marathons or even running errands. I generally just don't do any kind of running. I do less less sitting on the couch and watching TV. It's the iPad now, get with the digital age.<br />
<br />
But it does mean more family activities and adventures outside the house, trying for date night more than once a month, getting more involved with a new mom's group, adding to my bucket list and finding activities that allow me to get away for a bit and just be me. That might mean hanging out with my girlfriends at a wine bar drinking the best peach tea learning about wine, going glow-bowling and dancing like a bunch of 80's music lovin' freaks, or a "quiet" night of bingo, blobbing away at random numbers, laughing at "O69" and getting grossed out by pannus pictures while stuffing popcorn in our faces.<br />
<br />
I am finding that going over that hill and getting on in years isn't so bad. I am finally figuring out that I cannot continue to work hard without playing hard every once in a while. I may not be as thin or as tall as I used to be, or even have the same energy level, but this momma still has some spunk and life in her.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G71uTif2P6USMgGvsj1VvlShnWyKGTxgME7fjBu1w0PUpowqns3ZT1hT6k_wYHnvUbJS3Dp7FVSfcWSlKsEdfPjI5l9B8uHbLnMSIq3K4YOfH9-jsGiqe-6z2e_g5ORJyOBNFx3B80U/s1600/VINTAGE-1973---Aged-To-Perfection---Birthday.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G71uTif2P6USMgGvsj1VvlShnWyKGTxgME7fjBu1w0PUpowqns3ZT1hT6k_wYHnvUbJS3Dp7FVSfcWSlKsEdfPjI5l9B8uHbLnMSIq3K4YOfH9-jsGiqe-6z2e_g5ORJyOBNFx3B80U/s1600/VINTAGE-1973---Aged-To-Perfection---Birthday.png" /></a></div>
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-92054024122166629682013-08-05T15:29:00.000-05:002013-09-03T09:59:00.573-05:00JoeSome will read this post and wonder why I would even bother with something like this.<br />
This is not to create an opportunity for debate. It serves two purposes. <br />
I want to remember the day that I ever gave something to someone on the street corner for the very first time. Most importantly, I want to remember that I gave because I was moved to do so and without judgement.<br />
<br />
On my way back to work from dropping items at the post office, I stopped by Burger King. I would normally get a chicken sandwich or a Whopper Jr. I was not even that hungry but decided to get the Whopper. (In hindsight, I wish I had gotten the meal.) At the corner of Silber and I-10, I was stopped at the light. I saw a man standing there, ragged and looking beat down. He was truly dirty. Not the pseudo dirty that I see on "fake homeless" people. You know the ones. They have a backpack that doesn't even look like it held their life's possessions. They have clean hair, nice shoes and clothes with no holes. Whenever I see these people on the corner, I judge and I judge hard. I have never given these panhandlers anything.<br />
<br />
Not Joe. Joe was covered head to toe in filth. His eyes appeared almost closed, like he was sleep standing. His face was so brown and leathery, I was not sure if it was dirt or that his skin had baked. I don't write this about him because I judged him. I write this to show that I saw every bit of down and out in this man. In the brief 20 seconds that I observed him and read his sign, I wanted to help him. His sign asked for food. I rolled down my window and called to Joe. He walked over and I handed him my Burger King bag. He was worried he was taking my lunch. I told him he needed it more. I smiled said "God bless you" and he gave me a toothless smile and thanked me. As I drove off, I looked over and saw that he had a dog and a shopping cart so full I had no idea how he could see past it when he pushed it. I am positive those were his life's possessions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1506655439607087273.post-54845915275014880032013-07-30T10:50:00.001-05:002013-07-30T10:50:21.890-05:00Festive Moments...in the bathroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87fggQ0a87Kl0DDflSyyZPtog-DUT7Mf8KdnbwUIw-OI4rmwcQHT-px89HVGx8CnkJEEwNN5x4RrthhcPQmlAZFQeMPKY7WIt0AW4Ralg4AN9KIWShNo2fOq2odLPMtM5Tcf_K1q_W4c/s1600/photo(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87fggQ0a87Kl0DDflSyyZPtog-DUT7Mf8KdnbwUIw-OI4rmwcQHT-px89HVGx8CnkJEEwNN5x4RrthhcPQmlAZFQeMPKY7WIt0AW4Ralg4AN9KIWShNo2fOq2odLPMtM5Tcf_K1q_W4c/s1600/photo(5).JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
3 Reasons why I find this product disturbing<br />
<br />
1. Snowflakes and bow on the packaging - How long has this been in the restroom? If it is a limited edition scent from 2012, then people are definitely not using enough of this. Which means that every time I go into a smelly restroom after someone dropped poopy napalm and someone comes in after me, they think I did it. Not cool.<br />
<br />
2. Vanilla Sugar Cookies - Why would a bathroom product have a scent that reminds you of food?<br />
I don't want vanilla sugar cookies associated with what goes on in the restroom. It would be like Pavlov's dog. Every time I would eat a sugar cookie, would I feel the urge to thing one or thing two?<br />
<br />
<br />
3. Festive Moments - Unless I get a call or better yet, a visit while on the porcelain throne from Publisher's Clearing House
to tell me I just won a gajillion dollars, there are no festive moments
happening in the restroom. Ever.<br />
But if they happened to make that pit stop, there better be confetti, balloons and even sugar cookies. <br />
<br />Thaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16506893461255246686noreply@blogger.com0