tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38526515179667716982024-02-19T08:38:13.525-06:00MamaThymeMama's place to share her stories, laughs, events, and thoughts on life.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-77536125244427123622013-01-28T16:48:00.000-06:002013-01-28T16:48:00.587-06:00Those CirclesThose circles are intertwining. They evolve, they change, they grow, they shrink with each passing day, each passing event, and conversation. I was introduced to the "circle" system of thinking when I was an expectant mom over 6 years ago. I was in the middle trying to find who I was and how I can define "me". I, like most, am continually trying to make me a better me. <br />
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I learned in a MOPS meeting from a guest speaker how we have circles of our life. WE decide who or what will be our core and from there decide how other people and "things" are closest , or rather how far away they are. It isn't that we need to remove people or things from our life, we just need to choose what we need MOST in our life. Friends, Family...Faith? Yes, Faith. <br />
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Over the last few years I have made significant changes in my life and who encircles me. I choose to LOVE everyone, but also choose to be closer to few. Those few are who/what I have deemed most important in making me a better me. I've moved some negative forces to the background, still keeping them close, still loving them, but giving some space to keep a healthy relationship and to keep me pushing forward to a better me. I'm seeking a closer relationship with my Lord and Savior and that is what I am keeping my eye on.<br />
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I'm aware of my changing circles and I see others catching on to the changes. It isn't comfortable to make those changes, discomfort comes with growth. <br />
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I have big dreams, big aspirations for myself. I know that if I serve my Lord with my whole heart, my whole mind, and my whole being, that I will serve those around me with the Light that they deserve and that He desires me to shine in the lives of others. <br />
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"But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD" Joshua 24:15<br />
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I once told a friend,<br />
"My goal in life is to live and leave a legacy. I want to leave this Earth with a hole that cannot be filled by another person, another thing. My goal is to have Him use me to do his handiwork."Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-52943098459309285072012-10-06T16:04:00.005-05:002012-10-06T16:04:48.725-05:00Mama's Been Away for Quite a While!<br />
This mama has been away from blogging for quite a while. I take breaks from blogging here and there, and then I realize how great it is to put feelings and words down in "writing". This last year has been a whirlwind of events and change. It's crazy. <br />
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I enjoy sharing what I'm doing, what I'm learning, where I am, how We are are as a family, and I cannot help but believe that my blogging has helped others, inspired others, and made others feel that they aren't alone in where they are at. It's amazing, really.<br />
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AmberAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-19942892467573806742011-07-01T08:59:00.002-05:002011-07-01T09:06:23.428-05:00Love That Shot: Beautiful Bokeh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA3yTEq91_IPYZbLOMJ5dZwcM2BGEAQDmtCmD04-0L259NznFbzFr19u0pvYWRsp0bdflSsITScQfW7QzfV0H47EfLDYnCK5Qz_CWJLrmt22OgtTEyn4QHY6Mr2H6YjZWocIiXAezHXGP/s1600/311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA3yTEq91_IPYZbLOMJ5dZwcM2BGEAQDmtCmD04-0L259NznFbzFr19u0pvYWRsp0bdflSsITScQfW7QzfV0H47EfLDYnCK5Qz_CWJLrmt22OgtTEyn4QHY6Mr2H6YjZWocIiXAezHXGP/s640/311.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Liam's first fish of the season. :) Almost as big as the worm he caught it with.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lovethatshot.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="125" src="http://lovethatshot.com/blog/images/love-that-shot-125.jpg" title="Visit Love That Shot" width="125" /></a></div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-28196799806578987792011-06-17T22:43:00.000-05:002011-06-17T22:43:22.613-05:00Camera Happy: My First Non-Family Shoot<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzhDt_RjJZM9Z8jA0SVgc4lEanStj8VZWokALpZQG3GiY7ZTFPGa9L4gGJMBj4U1ldWA5860gEnd5Ywgxzvf6TpFH6xP-dxJqoQd_R53rulsRgJeVgfAkinO2ORUATqlvmrYQrCqeV-loR/s1600/263959_662948530520_184901548_35256982_4072192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzhDt_RjJZM9Z8jA0SVgc4lEanStj8VZWokALpZQG3GiY7ZTFPGa9L4gGJMBj4U1ldWA5860gEnd5Ywgxzvf6TpFH6xP-dxJqoQd_R53rulsRgJeVgfAkinO2ORUATqlvmrYQrCqeV-loR/s320/263959_662948530520_184901548_35256982_4072192_n.jpg" width="213" /></a>I've always LOVED taking pictures of my kids, my nieces and nephews, and close friends. Today, I embarked on a new endeavor. I had my first non-family shoot. It was fun! <br />
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I was honored when a co-worker asked me to photograph her daughter and grandson for a "Mommy & Me" portrait. I was nervous, as I am just an amateur and have no real training. But I do love taking pictures and trying new things, so I agreed under the terms that there were no expectations and it was just for fun. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzf1jqlFTSdkZS423aQUBD20wBsUgcQPW3vgGYVhJLGpLjPrM64TNvto1OEJEI8cqCmOoyKZxRriEZrZ37tIOgAwdLvxq2hf3yGtQSSoj3HakP_ARSay5GRBMraRlvDAJwr-gCjqMgECR/s1600/264552_662948480620_184901548_35256980_1771033_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzf1jqlFTSdkZS423aQUBD20wBsUgcQPW3vgGYVhJLGpLjPrM64TNvto1OEJEI8cqCmOoyKZxRriEZrZ37tIOgAwdLvxq2hf3yGtQSSoj3HakP_ARSay5GRBMraRlvDAJwr-gCjqMgECR/s400/264552_662948480620_184901548_35256980_1771033_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YIS2H6HVO9YxGUx7R8Gc7Nl5Guxyd1_Ya2eSLxnzbYy8gckz8KhyIIlu7Ty-xhr1QmDTz_YlBu0iv8MA3m3nHfh__wJxr_fVK4UnKVOD5R6l6GVfwSNfQ3P7IGG5NLhLCzEk6gWDwHZl/s1600/254120_662948435710_184901548_35256979_8138488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YIS2H6HVO9YxGUx7R8Gc7Nl5Guxyd1_Ya2eSLxnzbYy8gckz8KhyIIlu7Ty-xhr1QmDTz_YlBu0iv8MA3m3nHfh__wJxr_fVK4UnKVOD5R6l6GVfwSNfQ3P7IGG5NLhLCzEk6gWDwHZl/s400/254120_662948435710_184901548_35256979_8138488_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>I loved it. 11 week old Isaac was just a complete sweetheart. He cooed and squeaked through the couple hours that we played, smiled, and photographed he and his beautiful mommy. I enjoyed every bit of it, and I'm excited to see where my new hobby and love for families and children takes me. Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-43538896703020524582011-05-22T21:09:00.000-05:002011-05-22T21:09:02.266-05:00Curly CueIt's crazy to see the changes in our little fellows around here. Our strong-willed, sweet, courageous, scared-of-ants, three year old has become more similar in his looks to his daddy. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYaszlM73l-MSf1o0YzB6GlCvfEr_o17-8RWC7NZxXmnDQ8-gjhrYsLiDMPTYgtnmsodlvaz-wsFBADM78OV7P7sdevj9eckWdjpmJH-TpAjm-w1Zwax02ImNyKKIOQLW0uYb6PrPxpvB/s1600/IMG_2563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYaszlM73l-MSf1o0YzB6GlCvfEr_o17-8RWC7NZxXmnDQ8-gjhrYsLiDMPTYgtnmsodlvaz-wsFBADM78OV7P7sdevj9eckWdjpmJH-TpAjm-w1Zwax02ImNyKKIOQLW0uYb6PrPxpvB/s400/IMG_2563.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Rmfq5ww6jOS8qeZgqy3PfX2VxKFzwty1fuzPqugDW5TGH1vkTerViF6j0gSRZDKrhn2VSmZLhaI_IKPVtIAfKv8yxYkVH5WTs6s4EUQV63Amhnbs9xFm6sqVx2Q93M-VonqZjEHpEt7N/s1600/IMG_2565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Rmfq5ww6jOS8qeZgqy3PfX2VxKFzwty1fuzPqugDW5TGH1vkTerViF6j0gSRZDKrhn2VSmZLhaI_IKPVtIAfKv8yxYkVH5WTs6s4EUQV63Amhnbs9xFm6sqVx2Q93M-VonqZjEHpEt7N/s400/IMG_2565.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>It's no secret to those who know us that these boys are chips off the old block.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37i1ePqSd3wr06KyXXyxjNNKwXP-P-NUqcxWsBr6nV-RzRJsVKh41yGIyVx3XwEXyt3igOwDALtr2NIzy4vRCFsVF9UQLcxp7DbnDak1IqXhAdgdNgJjCytj33ZnfiqfcgapgGBMXAmbI/s1600/IMG_2567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37i1ePqSd3wr06KyXXyxjNNKwXP-P-NUqcxWsBr6nV-RzRJsVKh41yGIyVx3XwEXyt3igOwDALtr2NIzy4vRCFsVF9UQLcxp7DbnDak1IqXhAdgdNgJjCytj33ZnfiqfcgapgGBMXAmbI/s320/IMG_2567.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Daddy's little clones show different likenesses to their daddy, and Landon has his golden locks. Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-19584600660152776022011-03-23T09:16:00.005-05:002011-03-23T12:56:31.134-05:00Wordless Wednesday: It's A Sure Sign of Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5RLHoMf-7q2SmYJJbmnuEJWZpG8F2Io6mLwRy9KmdKQ9DFd5Izekeb30JJmqwdmkLsdK9gG2FpK5altxO0ZV4UrY_QACvEmVXoKqBImJcJw6ybu3cdkXWITKqZN0Zl4GX8Ca6uvmMcj_/s1600/IMG_1981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5RLHoMf-7q2SmYJJbmnuEJWZpG8F2Io6mLwRy9KmdKQ9DFd5Izekeb30JJmqwdmkLsdK9gG2FpK5altxO0ZV4UrY_QACvEmVXoKqBImJcJw6ybu3cdkXWITKqZN0Zl4GX8Ca6uvmMcj_/s400/IMG_1981.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dirt. Everywhere.<br />
(Although it snowed 6 inches last night)<br />
</div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-5299560579488327882011-03-20T08:06:00.000-05:002011-03-20T08:06:43.024-05:00Above the LawWith each baby boy I have taken pictures of him with his daddy's dress hat from the police department. All of the boys have one at 6 months old and I treasure those photographs!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2LqoOPMR9ophbEFPT02l0tlZ-AXnNnLzMT9nddOvCPoSAusK9y5PbW9C3qiEpkpigB5W_jEt-U-ftxiP9fHDiX-5gGUGfxvywjAO8kyRKUllzOm5MIw1nJWE0B1VbMF94ZKINKLI5eg24/s1600/SCAN0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2LqoOPMR9ophbEFPT02l0tlZ-AXnNnLzMT9nddOvCPoSAusK9y5PbW9C3qiEpkpigB5W_jEt-U-ftxiP9fHDiX-5gGUGfxvywjAO8kyRKUllzOm5MIw1nJWE0B1VbMF94ZKINKLI5eg24/s320/SCAN0002.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsT1brXHUgXkyFyLP1Mg133EVHM8JIgyah_FtTSEymmS4RE_Wi_aGjJDf8wS6uoVoTNL4mJTcnc4kOQR2o4BtOIfK4RJ0R5qYQ6Ge91Lv7gujeDamsVJnuhhpfOgu_ZcIFDt7z8phe0iN/s1600/lachlan+6m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitsT1brXHUgXkyFyLP1Mg133EVHM8JIgyah_FtTSEymmS4RE_Wi_aGjJDf8wS6uoVoTNL4mJTcnc4kOQR2o4BtOIfK4RJ0R5qYQ6Ge91Lv7gujeDamsVJnuhhpfOgu_ZcIFDt7z8phe0iN/s320/lachlan+6m.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GIM3Z-0KeHs6rubRB69VCHbNVCzXSl908kbd2AEyfok7mWFvXFgVOAv-0-zmSglpHRkT5uVSPfRcxKmFsPlEiArRSJGTcUYXz2j2lkPfpGHaPluwbsBA8Fhuarw_ukParb1CBwjqECya/s1600/Liamcop.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GIM3Z-0KeHs6rubRB69VCHbNVCzXSl908kbd2AEyfok7mWFvXFgVOAv-0-zmSglpHRkT5uVSPfRcxKmFsPlEiArRSJGTcUYXz2j2lkPfpGHaPluwbsBA8Fhuarw_ukParb1CBwjqECya/s320/Liamcop.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Can you tell which baby is which? </div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-66760423712799873532011-03-17T13:19:00.001-05:002011-03-17T13:19:47.529-05:00Before/After Photography Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vlX84MaUz5GKZyZHLheNZuGCgF1HcINw5xfdm2ruySjKAtFLFKFUImwRzLqjhmSFrtw0XVCgVZ4nK2E61qDfCctYJ_1XlXDylCS5ezeQ1_2-p-_sXJ_F4uCGRiNutNhq9GnfI7oVHbED/s1600/IMG_1832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vlX84MaUz5GKZyZHLheNZuGCgF1HcINw5xfdm2ruySjKAtFLFKFUImwRzLqjhmSFrtw0XVCgVZ4nK2E61qDfCctYJ_1XlXDylCS5ezeQ1_2-p-_sXJ_F4uCGRiNutNhq9GnfI7oVHbED/s400/IMG_1832.JPG" width="266" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvu0rZQzP48axb8FqkH9zYS3jebMeukRfZ51s6BF9gJ7xkZDPIcKL50uJfgvoOLt9nB2yBka74GhxtEIQFUYRwnDwiwlewre2mi4zM_Y_lzCPHil4rRCENqcTWM9ircQzUnLpyUV7LV6j/s1600/saralach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvu0rZQzP48axb8FqkH9zYS3jebMeukRfZ51s6BF9gJ7xkZDPIcKL50uJfgvoOLt9nB2yBka74GhxtEIQFUYRwnDwiwlewre2mi4zM_Y_lzCPHil4rRCENqcTWM9ircQzUnLpyUV7LV6j/s400/saralach.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
Such a great photo of my aunt, Sara, and our little Lachlan. I was disappointed in the lighting with the picture turnout and with such a small window of time to capture it. I use my Canon 1000D set at 1/60 and was using no flash, as the lighting seemed right in previous pictures. I lightened the contrast and played with the color saturation. Not a great turn out, but a moment saved.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-65728323252546840092011-03-10T07:35:00.000-06:002011-03-10T07:35:18.201-06:00Time,<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYCj_EfbfjwwIs1sR7ue124AKSeOKOamaCHMv4O1hrkK9jOOgfF8f8p6mLf3taXFhWffbwiMmPiAaJJ8bwbyng0qJZuKGcAYHov9NmRBNFwI-7LOYCh9WP3K2TL73_-8hpiHvd0MBoDYj/s1600/IMG_1721-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYCj_EfbfjwwIs1sR7ue124AKSeOKOamaCHMv4O1hrkK9jOOgfF8f8p6mLf3taXFhWffbwiMmPiAaJJ8bwbyng0qJZuKGcAYHov9NmRBNFwI-7LOYCh9WP3K2TL73_-8hpiHvd0MBoDYj/s400/IMG_1721-2.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Time sure flies when we're having fun!</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>Happy 6 months to my HAPPY, ENERGETIC, SMILING, SCOOTING, CHATTY, DROOLING, BOUNCING baby boy! Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-32051013810908920002011-03-01T22:27:00.001-06:002011-03-01T22:28:21.585-06:00Brothers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxq8ul2hlSxuaFP02br_I-Lf_74FV38WiHWTEgxcU3Mq93d1PvqV33TKqCB0Il8dT0LAXHUSe_GibrpUWyaxUgOBlfFZaswKUafefPJwT7Ycgsvpbg3Klw6xRvwK1dcOX4cRuB1w5fhRjl/s1600/hands2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxq8ul2hlSxuaFP02br_I-Lf_74FV38WiHWTEgxcU3Mq93d1PvqV33TKqCB0Il8dT0LAXHUSe_GibrpUWyaxUgOBlfFZaswKUafefPJwT7Ycgsvpbg3Klw6xRvwK1dcOX4cRuB1w5fhRjl/s400/hands2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-92193975725111902652011-03-01T22:23:00.000-06:002011-03-01T22:23:46.534-06:00A Lot of Lovin'It's hard to believe that these babies of mine are getting so big and are getting to be such little men. I'm amazed at who they are as little people, how they contribute to the family, their friends, and one another. They are such a blessing. Despite the chaos, the craziness, the mess, and the refereeing, I am a proud mom of three beautiful blessings and I wouldn't change anything about my life with them. Each of our boys is intricate and special with personalities that sparkle. They amaze me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bWoF_sKQXZSjA981G6EHOllVa8e9O4b1BXIaH0r1aYkfqS7OjZG6zI8friXUUqKSpCgN-Qsn1R2Kv_aQFILYeJI3NPbcB6nPYS3vVh2AepHl-AK3GPbKNeI4Vn5XzHJKmQIJBZw8P4v7/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bWoF_sKQXZSjA981G6EHOllVa8e9O4b1BXIaH0r1aYkfqS7OjZG6zI8friXUUqKSpCgN-Qsn1R2Kv_aQFILYeJI3NPbcB6nPYS3vVh2AepHl-AK3GPbKNeI4Vn5XzHJKmQIJBZw8P4v7/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>Sir Gentle Spirit</b><br />
He is the leader of the trio by far. With a gentle spirit and a sweet disposition, he helps his brothers to understand and learn, often correcting and making right what may be wrong. He is the pleaser of the boys, always wanting to make right his wrongs. Sensitive and loving. A once "hyper" boy has settled into a quieter, calmer state of being, but is not ready to give up his mischievous ways. Still testing the limits, but careful while doing so. Thrives on love, respect,<br />
and attention from Mom and Dad<b>. </b>A true lover.<br />
<i>Favorites:</i> Anything outside. Singing and dancing. Playing with his brothers, Coloring and drawing, special time with mom or dad, and French Toast. <b> </b><br />
<i>Not-so-Favorites: </i>Sweets (especially frosting), napping, and getting cold.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFvQafM-aSXEFvSmgsUbwouvRKxtTAJDVPokJre2_3I11LatyysaCOwo3x80qUL1-0YKSgOtgq2AngOctfBPF1L0vUTKNTJmmZt-ojLOUvbQnPBn7HbMXk1GdSNpZD0oWFfrLJwkdSiVY/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFvQafM-aSXEFvSmgsUbwouvRKxtTAJDVPokJre2_3I11LatyysaCOwo3x80qUL1-0YKSgOtgq2AngOctfBPF1L0vUTKNTJmmZt-ojLOUvbQnPBn7HbMXk1GdSNpZD0oWFfrLJwkdSiVY/s320/009.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><b>The Big-Hearted Tester</b><br />
Maybe I should call this brother Most Improved. He's our tester. Always checking out what and Cans and Cannots are for virtually every situation, and when he comes across a "cannot", he's got to see what the consequence might be. We often times forget that Mr. Big Heart is technically a toddler still, but with his quick wit, exponential vocabulary, and mature ways, we often have to remind ourselves he's still just a baby. He's quickly learned what it is to be a big brother, but with brute force. He forgets his strength and is often found to be hugging and kissing the little ones a little too roughly. We keep a close eye on him. He has the heart of an angel. Always affectionate and great manners. He loves to pray to Jesus and thank Him for all of his friends and family (he'll go on for hours if you let him), and enjoys to sing praise and worship songs. He's got a personality that shines and often makes us laugh and shake our heads at the same time.<br />
<i>Favorites: </i>Eats anything and everything, LOVES sweets, enjoys time with his brothers, loves cuddles with Mom and Dad<br />
<i>Not-so Favorites: </i>Depends on the day and time. He's a toddler, remember!?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTDwPNnD_jXndpXJ7EmwnxZjSL3GMKXD8YvqDSz8Kn3bNMzuBZZTfEJrJKFzpqCIDCFrlD0w7K8EtGJlbZUsQNfYE1Yg6xzsYOwuS3gaY8OZ-1IQZ1XKcCMi3zZY0X9By3m61ibjyU9sr/s1600/075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTDwPNnD_jXndpXJ7EmwnxZjSL3GMKXD8YvqDSz8Kn3bNMzuBZZTfEJrJKFzpqCIDCFrlD0w7K8EtGJlbZUsQNfYE1Yg6xzsYOwuS3gaY8OZ-1IQZ1XKcCMi3zZY0X9By3m61ibjyU9sr/s320/075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>The Angel</b><br />
For sure the most loved by his brothers. A true angel. His smiles light up a room. He sleeps through the night next to mom and dad, a great cuddler. He loves to giggle and squeal! Most recently he babbles and laughs loud for all to hear and giggle as well. He enjoys his brothers' crazy antics and often roots them on, even if the actions aren't "good choices", to his brothers' delight. He plays on his own. Loves to see new things, and can't get enough of new foods, toys, and anything else he can get his gums on. <br />
<i>Favorites:</i> Pears, Applesauce, Blocks, and cuddling<br />
<i>Not-so Favorites:</i> Being left alone, loud noises (brothers), and being in his carseat<br />
<br />
We've got a lot to be thankful for and lots of loving to give!We are blessed.<br />
<br />
<i>Behold, children are a heritage from the <span class="sc">Lord</span>, the fruit of the womb a reward Psalm127:</i>3Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-3612474703633895312011-02-24T10:01:00.001-06:002011-02-24T10:04:45.358-06:00Coupon CrazySo, in the last few weeks I've become a little crazy about couponing. I'm excited about it. I love to save money. AND it's going to help our family continue to get even closer to becoming debt free. Yes,<a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/"> DEBT FREE</a>! YAY! We're getting closer and closer, and our hopes to be debt free weren't dashed by a few setbacks. It's just part of the plan, part of the game, and we're still working hard on <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/new/baby-step-2/">Baby Step 2</a>! We're anxious and excited! <br />
<br />
In the past few months I contacted some friends about learning about the real deal with couponing. The woman that came to share her knowledge with us at our MOPS meeting this past month got me (and several other moms) ready and geared up for couponing. Some of us didn't even realize what it all entailed (including me!). Although I can't share all of the things I gleaned from the meeting here, I can add to the list of sites that I've learned to utilize! Here they are<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_626173529"><br />
</a><br />
<a href="http://couponersunited.com/">Couponersunited.com</a><br />
<a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/">Moneysavingmom.com</a><br />
<a href="http://frugallyblonde.blogspot.com/">Frugallyblonde.blogspot.com</a><br />
<a href="http://heyitsfree.com/">heyitsfree.com</a><br />
<a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">orgjunkie.com</a><br />
<a href="http://stretchingabuckblog.com/">stretchingabuckblog.com</a><br />
<br />
Although I can't devote my evenings and weekends to couponing, I'm going to give this weekend my very first "real good" shot. I've always couponed, but this time I'm using "prior knowledge" from those who go before me (aka<a href="http://www.pocketyourdollars.com/"> PocketYourDollars</a> and <a href="http://www.creativecouponing.com/">CreativeCouponing</a>)<br />
<br />
And if all this information goodness isn't "good" enough for you...here's a video to get your couponing fire burning! <br />
<br />
<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="412" id="flashObj" width="486"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="omnitureAccountID=gntbcstkare,gntbcstglobal&pageContentCategory=video&pageContentSubcategory=&marketName=Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN:kare&division=Broadcast&SSTSCode=extras&videoId=801188184001&playerID=35036491001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAACC6OgzE~,L0bTvfk9n161rxAUbRKUHVmDGRBSHx-N&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="omnitureAccountID=gntbcstkare,gntbcstglobal&pageContentCategory=video&pageContentSubcategory=&marketName=Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN:kare&division=Broadcast&SSTSCode=extras&videoId=801188184001&playerID=35036491001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAACC6OgzE~,L0bTvfk9n161rxAUbRKUHVmDGRBSHx-N&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="486" height="412" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" swLiveConnect="true" allowScriptAccess="always" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-63885129780049894382011-02-08T12:11:00.000-06:002011-02-08T12:11:07.362-06:00Lifting Up.I've always had that sun shine attitude and the ability to share a smile. It's just who I am. What I haven't always had was the ability (or knowledge) to lift up others in thought and prayer. It's so simple. You don't have to spend money,or give up large amounts of time. It's as simple as a thought and/or prayer. <br />
<br />
I've been working on this. I have to admit, it makes you feel great when you lift up others! So here are two ideas I have for you...<br />
<br />
The first idea I gleaned from our female pastor at our church. She spoke at our MOPS meeting last year and shared the idea that she drives through our town and prays for specific people, but then also pray those people you see that you DON'T know. Pray for their day, their family, their needs. <br />
<br />
The second idea I am sharing with you from <a href="http://www.pixelperfectblog.com/2011/02/different-way-to-use-social-media.html">Pixel Perfect</a> , a photography blog I have stumbled upon and have found is so much more than tips and tricks for photography...it's also tips and tricks for your life. She shared in a post recently how to use social media in a different way. Let's be honest, Facebook and Twitter can sometimes be used as places that people use a little too much indiscretion. They complain, boast, swear, gossip, banter, and other not-so-beautiful things. However it's others' way of communicating needs. Needs for prayer, needs for support, needs for lifting up. You can use this social media tool to do this! You can take those negative statuses and lift those people up in prayer. Pray for their day, for a change in attitude, for a look on the bright side. You can pray for those who ask for prayer, for their needs. You can pray for those who aren't asking, aren't making a statement, but just plain being. Pray for them. Pray for their families, for them to be open to the Lord's plan.<br />
<br />
Social media is a great way to reconnect, connect, and stay in touch.<br />
But best of all, you can use it to glorify Him.<br />
~AmberAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-64601380758065902762011-02-05T11:09:00.000-06:002011-02-05T11:09:58.921-06:00Weeds.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKTncpIUan2QtSXeVaKbIksyQo9SFDyDhuzF2LhHWqhhAs4D452WLq2rs8UtS6hYg4COH4hSB8o35wDdNk8vwplJ_LD51pKwtLF3pkpEn2CEMaiJuZ6RcvmqGul975BP0rf6weQZe3IjF/s1600/Lachlan+5+months+010-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKTncpIUan2QtSXeVaKbIksyQo9SFDyDhuzF2LhHWqhhAs4D452WLq2rs8UtS6hYg4COH4hSB8o35wDdNk8vwplJ_LD51pKwtLF3pkpEn2CEMaiJuZ6RcvmqGul975BP0rf6weQZe3IjF/s640/Lachlan+5+months+010-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My, Oh, My</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDbw4mnDdLA3h0qWPDewRswDovSSxk9Kj8qLWY1OPrti0eCsFYW5eLxUe9HvjERt26xUm0xnsBHJF6OCooHFplrnWdFDbjZIfkdmxaYhkdnlvSQWMSmMN25-C7K7u5zVOFEKAkVrLqELh1/s1600/Lachlan+5+months+015-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDbw4mnDdLA3h0qWPDewRswDovSSxk9Kj8qLWY1OPrti0eCsFYW5eLxUe9HvjERt26xUm0xnsBHJF6OCooHFplrnWdFDbjZIfkdmxaYhkdnlvSQWMSmMN25-C7K7u5zVOFEKAkVrLqELh1/s640/Lachlan+5+months+015-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">do they</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4vZQGvFjrV8uD8JHXSpXhtQw5jjxw7-zo4qg5CF2ERkZSDxizuXXUN1jgkyzynS9PEjOh6DwbL9ao6lJ3HaKd-48WndURnSnMDk0Y5Qv3gsKucUotJhNLHcBs1MAxv92Ta2bEZ9Hmkbr/s1600/Lachlan+5+months+016-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4vZQGvFjrV8uD8JHXSpXhtQw5jjxw7-zo4qg5CF2ERkZSDxizuXXUN1jgkyzynS9PEjOh6DwbL9ao6lJ3HaKd-48WndURnSnMDk0Y5Qv3gsKucUotJhNLHcBs1MAxv92Ta2bEZ9Hmkbr/s640/Lachlan+5+months+016-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> grow</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTarE_3QDk7VRKrzM3FmatXh_90q5KOMrTCUUDNy0YPY85Ik_oL_hfgW9symCyfWa1eETFqEKdIWwrLEaB7aFKDAIVM7n2m0NanXV6T9Y6E6HRiugqWENXp75gu4C0QIryL8Hzb6Icg67/s1600/Lachlan+5+months+037-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTarE_3QDk7VRKrzM3FmatXh_90q5KOMrTCUUDNy0YPY85Ik_oL_hfgW9symCyfWa1eETFqEKdIWwrLEaB7aFKDAIVM7n2m0NanXV6T9Y6E6HRiugqWENXp75gu4C0QIryL8Hzb6Icg67/s640/Lachlan+5+months+037-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> fast.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5lYWpJP5vSzBJ7BAvKI2sBmCSx7vuGOLD_RqsqZ00vwa9MFNsyORwhGXiPK4TNBPy6dXTyVlSIqsPEUv79YtJFRznu1GPrHwRiaBGuSm9ppzb2JXOh1b0aQ_cncUP2DZkMLk4bTmRocs/s1600/Lachlan+5+months+030-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5lYWpJP5vSzBJ7BAvKI2sBmCSx7vuGOLD_RqsqZ00vwa9MFNsyORwhGXiPK4TNBPy6dXTyVlSIqsPEUv79YtJFRznu1GPrHwRiaBGuSm9ppzb2JXOh1b0aQ_cncUP2DZkMLk4bTmRocs/s640/Lachlan+5+months+030-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy 5 Months, Lachlan!</div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-21051380041074478082011-01-23T08:28:00.000-06:002011-01-23T08:28:03.135-06:00Addicted.Addiction to one thing or another rules so many lives. My life has been altered by addiction. I've come to a place as an adult where I see this, accept it, and hope for change in the person that has succumbed to it. Addiction comes in so many forms, alcohol, drugs, sex, money, gambling, food, and the list goes on. For many people in our lives, they may go through treatment, they may continue therapy and counseling for their addictions, however addiction has become a way of life for them. It's finding a healthier form of addiction that they look for, like exercise. <br />
Then, there is an addiction to the best thing one can find. Jesus. Who wouldn't want to be addicted to him? The Way, the Truth, and the Life?<br />
He's amazing! He changes lives, hearts, and families.<br />
His love isn't conditional, His love is forever!<br />
He forgives, always! He doesn't keep a record of wrong.<br />
He knows you, from the very beginning of your being. There's no getting-to-know-you period.<br />
He's always there. You don't have to go find Him.<br />
He carries your burdens, your grief, and your worries. No strings attached!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpY4qHTGYQ0VwdPTddXjD00XZ5wVU8kihuaHTpt2DP0wkock1zWKHxsYI_Cjll9ZKexSLzHkqS79QyIekWvFSmdIRpSXVhSBeZbL4R25XyE2R2hYd6-RNx1Ro5pFpKaC9lCEzYT4Jbpkm/s1600/JesusHug.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpY4qHTGYQ0VwdPTddXjD00XZ5wVU8kihuaHTpt2DP0wkock1zWKHxsYI_Cjll9ZKexSLzHkqS79QyIekWvFSmdIRpSXVhSBeZbL4R25XyE2R2hYd6-RNx1Ro5pFpKaC9lCEzYT4Jbpkm/s320/JesusHug.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
He's changing lives everyday, and He is the healthiest addiction known to man. I'm praying for those in my life to see what He can do, so they too make a change. If addicts need an addiction, this is the best choice!<br />
<br />
~AmberAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-13801627946683146242011-01-22T08:22:00.000-06:002011-01-22T08:22:49.190-06:00On Pins and Needles: LiamOver the course of the last month many things have consumed me. A close friend of mine said it best, "You allow yourself to carry the burdens of others on your heart." That is so true. I know it can be both a positive and a negative aspect about myself, but I think that it is just who I am. I'm constantly on pins and needles for others, and sometimes myself. <br />
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Recently our oldest boy had us a little in a tizzy. Over the last month, through the holiday season he became more and more withdrawn. He slept more, was more clingy,ate less, and played with his classmates and brothers less. It just wasn't him. He is one of the most energetic, excitable children I know. And the fact that he just let the world pass by him wasn't normal for him. <br />
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I began making excuses.<br />
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He's sad about his friend being sick.<br />
He's tired from the holidays.<br />
He's fighting a cold or other illness.<br />
He's growing.<br />
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Just the other day my husband said to me, "Honey, have you noticed how lethargic he's been?" And that was all it took for me to be on pins and needles. I called the doctor the next morning and we took him in for a more thorough exam.<br />
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Upon arrival, the doctor went through a checklist that listed all of his symptoms. It was incredible how many he had that were listed. As she proceeded you could see that she too, was concerned and the ideas swimming in her mind I was not sure that I wanted to know. Next we had the nurses take three pin-poked vials of blood for initial blood screenings. My little guy was so brave, not a trickle came from his eye. These tests were testing for mono, blood diseases,and leukemia. Leukemia!? The doctor came in with a look of relief on her face and shared that the last test was indeed negative. Praise God. She shared with me that she was most concerned about the possibility of this being a different outcome. But all tests were negative. She was still believing that something was "up" with our preschooler. We were sent to the hospital for yet more blood to be drawn and more tests.<br />
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Needless to say, the size of the needle that was used for the blood drawn from LJ's arm was a little alarming for the little man. He was scared out of his mind and sobbed while the great nurses at Maple Grove hospital did their work with him. They were consoling, considerate, and careful. This blood is to be testing kidney and liver functions, thyroid disease, mono, Lyme's disease, and other "blood panels". <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdumm9a1bbXCxji4iUzkqRXp3AtUf0ix0FXmWSxURVI_tAPgo39d-VVITTlguRW0VYuwionj8f-dB4EgcFASHgqvMA5h3oJNbOYF2OYd0L6i5AeneG_TshXWlq7c7lw2SPcUGlvGx8lMsS/s1600/IMG_1232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdumm9a1bbXCxji4iUzkqRXp3AtUf0ix0FXmWSxURVI_tAPgo39d-VVITTlguRW0VYuwionj8f-dB4EgcFASHgqvMA5h3oJNbOYF2OYd0L6i5AeneG_TshXWlq7c7lw2SPcUGlvGx8lMsS/s320/IMG_1232.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
Following the procedure, I took him out to get some goodies and some not-so-healthy food to smooth over the bumpy morning we had. It was hard for the little guy, and the mommy in me needed to give him more than just a hug for his bravery. We got some goodies from the "Dollar Spot", ate some pizza from Pizza Hut, and drank a mighty Slurpy. It was just the medicine he needed. <br />
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Still holding his arm, we ventured out to home in the cold. I watched his eyes become heavy, and slowly he drifted off.<br />
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So far the tests he was given have all came back negative, thankfully. LJ is starting to perk up and his appetite is off and on. He's playing with friends more and more each day. For that we are thankful. We'll wait for the remainder of tests to come back, but for the most part, we're content that we're seeing improvements and are no longer on pins and needles.<br />
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We're most thankful for his wellness and thankful for the prayers and thoughts of those who sent them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1zjlhGUYu7fCARsf_zn3MpfAUqPY8vdjHXVVe9wXwWuYvdtvTQ2LEiTe-uZY4_98VrqPwVkXgRHbdBQA5Enx-ynwzZAdgUiOGGXPPGM9jbihNopBQ_-UO8X2fQuGzqMhpkkhdluzpU_k/s1600/IMG_1293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1zjlhGUYu7fCARsf_zn3MpfAUqPY8vdjHXVVe9wXwWuYvdtvTQ2LEiTe-uZY4_98VrqPwVkXgRHbdBQA5Enx-ynwzZAdgUiOGGXPPGM9jbihNopBQ_-UO8X2fQuGzqMhpkkhdluzpU_k/s320/IMG_1293.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-10722643122566750342011-01-21T22:01:00.000-06:002011-01-21T22:01:00.955-06:00Daddy<div style="text-align: center;">There is nothing more special </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIVdWKPqgnltYTwid8vcaDddt87v3CE6J0m4tLlKv4tWW2mm3oXK-CGo5g-oYtoWRAw__XGQHMR5n9CXM-GSYZpnb8F5bLzu3an45cqwe6sAJyHWuy8r-oGPyvkIT6eHXhCUcjP7Z6Y-y/s1600/IMG_1398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIVdWKPqgnltYTwid8vcaDddt87v3CE6J0m4tLlKv4tWW2mm3oXK-CGo5g-oYtoWRAw__XGQHMR5n9CXM-GSYZpnb8F5bLzu3an45cqwe6sAJyHWuy8r-oGPyvkIT6eHXhCUcjP7Z6Y-y/s320/IMG_1398.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">than a little boy's</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCs8g9EUsZqgQ36bOAKg7j6QiM7dQgZm6XD0DE2vbYKi5imGWq6IgSz7SYSO72lnQPMn04XBnrDLZ3lMqYTTkx1YC2SGLMD5Llj5Fmhq0_3rE5imDGYZ2z-whlP_K-w0Wz_wjsTOwMVt6e/s1600/IMG_1406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCs8g9EUsZqgQ36bOAKg7j6QiM7dQgZm6XD0DE2vbYKi5imGWq6IgSz7SYSO72lnQPMn04XBnrDLZ3lMqYTTkx1YC2SGLMD5Llj5Fmhq0_3rE5imDGYZ2z-whlP_K-w0Wz_wjsTOwMVt6e/s320/IMG_1406.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love for</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjDsDMeerLE-1eMfyFo33ggmjgRE1f7_nqbeGoVHAzzBr6wiWV9qG73uccvY1Pd-2GyHLxx9MbFLa-Oo10T7kksSoKu00h-inzUjvh4dV_KY1b1sAkj1yCCW-dmjPN6-DHjtI6LEKIWr0/s1600/IMG_1409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjDsDMeerLE-1eMfyFo33ggmjgRE1f7_nqbeGoVHAzzBr6wiWV9qG73uccvY1Pd-2GyHLxx9MbFLa-Oo10T7kksSoKu00h-inzUjvh4dV_KY1b1sAkj1yCCW-dmjPN6-DHjtI6LEKIWr0/s320/IMG_1409.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">his daddy.</div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-31411991308643804652011-01-21T21:48:00.000-06:002011-01-21T21:48:33.021-06:00What I'm Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcwpmcNJcPQGy-lTxVAueZt_Rx3g_4uAa7EHODt7Y1UojQ9oJ_xnt8-g-KNIoDIgHgolt6WgnPRpPhxa0q8t3Q4vk3zfqgHJpEnUAIJU2fNLCckQqcGlDBJi77WKsRaDFxFNvTFigEWptt/s1600/bringing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcwpmcNJcPQGy-lTxVAueZt_Rx3g_4uAa7EHODt7Y1UojQ9oJ_xnt8-g-KNIoDIgHgolt6WgnPRpPhxa0q8t3Q4vk3zfqgHJpEnUAIJU2fNLCckQqcGlDBJi77WKsRaDFxFNvTFigEWptt/s320/bringing.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>Isn't it obvious that being a mom of three boys, I could use all the help I can get in successfully raising them...not to mention understanding how they work?!<br />
I'm a huge fan of Dr. James Dobson from <a href="http://www.focusonthefamily.com/">Focus on the Family</a> and am <i>re-reading</i> this great book that is chalk full of insight on boys, how they're made, and how to effectively raise them. Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-44827406254822351272011-01-21T21:43:00.001-06:002011-03-24T16:09:51.792-05:00Making It All WorkRecently at MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meeting myself and several other moms gathered to pray together, chat, support, and learn together. Our meetings are monthly and this month we had a fabulous speaker who shared the importance of financial peace. The woman who shared many words of wisdom about finances gleaned her perspectives on several ways to save money on every day living expenditures.<br />
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In past blog posts I have shared sites that I have utilized in saving money. You can find those posts <a href="http://mamathyme.blogspot.com/2010/04/penny-savedis-penny-saved.html">here</a> and <a href="http://mamathyme.blogspot.com/2010/11/coupon-savvy.html">here</a>. I have since then found more sites and more strategies to saving money. Here are some of the strategies I use to get the most on what we've been provided.<br />
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1) I scour and search for steals and deals on gifts, necessities, and the occasional splurge. Some of the sites that I have added to my money saving scavenger hunt are<br />
<a href="http://www.pocketyourdollars.com/">PocketYourDollars </a><br />
<a href="http://creativecouponing.com/">Creative Couponing </a><br />
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2) I always buy a Saturday paper ( they're cheaper than Sunday) sometimes I buy 2, purely for the coupon inserts. Both of the above websites alert me as to the number of inserts that will be in the paper for that weekend, as well as the value of the coupons I'll find. It's always nice when someone else does some of the work for you. <br />
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3) In order to keep to my $60-$80/week grocery budget for our family of 5, I plan the week's meals based on the foods that are on sale at Cub Foods and Target. Both stores offer deals and they also offer coupons either in store, by mail, or on the web. Many times you can match up a store coupon with a manufacturer coupon to score even bigger savings. I spend a good amount of time each week devising my plan for meals for the week in order to come out with a best case scenario, which usually keeps the pocketbook a little more full. I only go to the grocery store with a detailed list, and I rarely deviate. <br />
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These are just my top three things I've been doing to save money recently. It's all become so natural and routine now,that I don't really think before doing it, it's all become habit, and I'm working hard to make it all work.<br />
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~AmberAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-80791705206829794302010-12-12T22:05:00.001-06:002010-12-12T22:35:44.444-06:00Holiday Showcase Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQ1gYq25KhKgEI7N2jLQklV9L-nQq0gGerar1yp6lD6GHYBTmxVWjRrXHJFc9S-VykvP69mkvy3uB74fGxsR8zkJptEVE4dDa_QnUg502dcO2OondEKQO0GOdt-ZWNfZxgwcWeIMjAcek/s1600/IMG_0204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQ1gYq25KhKgEI7N2jLQklV9L-nQq0gGerar1yp6lD6GHYBTmxVWjRrXHJFc9S-VykvP69mkvy3uB74fGxsR8zkJptEVE4dDa_QnUg502dcO2OondEKQO0GOdt-ZWNfZxgwcWeIMjAcek/s320/IMG_0204.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Earlier in the month our family hosted a dinner with some of our friends. It's one of our favorite things to do, and we're so blessed to have friends that have children that our children truly enjoy playing with! In addition to enjoying a delicious meal, we were given the opportunity to have our children test and see some great gift-giving options from companies through Mom Select. The products the children had the opportunity to play with were<br />
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<ul><li> NEW Small Frys from Build-a-Bear Workshop</li>
<li>Sneaky 3D Puzzles from Patch Products</li>
<li>Play-Doh Mega Fun Factory</li>
<li>Play-Doh Shape and Spin Elmo</li>
<li>Playmobil Child's First Day of School kit</li>
<li>Smart Mom Solutions</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>With the addition of our friends, the children's ages spanned from 9 years of age to 3 months old. The toys the children played with were a hit.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoYF3vwyqKXpEvVNcaFYD0K4Ar6yKrlVyqBDbAJM6yqGVo0Z1h0Qk9y57IMMpEHIQshHIMNh70pxRJ4pwIJVFv5vTwvYxZWJgZP7H8bniWZm8LMZYUvmbFc8OgIY4bpDurHc0oQuQ0hKN/s1600/neven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoYF3vwyqKXpEvVNcaFYD0K4Ar6yKrlVyqBDbAJM6yqGVo0Z1h0Qk9y57IMMpEHIQshHIMNh70pxRJ4pwIJVFv5vTwvYxZWJgZP7H8bniWZm8LMZYUvmbFc8OgIY4bpDurHc0oQuQ0hKN/s200/neven.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Littlest N loved her Small Fry from Build-a-Bear workshop. She carried her Small Fry, Sassy Kitty, around the house all evening and slept with it that night. She loved it. Middle N. received the Peace Bear and was excited to take it home with her. The Small Fry collection is Limited Edition, and like the other Build-a-Bear collection, these too have customizable options for clothing and accessories.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOK5trbOQuJ0CDyZp9R8F5TsxZ9G5WoT_HV1omqjV7s3wyV1X0RNMGeVLIexpMxWm8HDiJ1MympWycL4anNF7444qFaXVEeP2LVtZyYpv7Xis01JgNMoxjmf7ARtvS8eRAqdlDFowf-2xh/s1600/kidspuzzle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOK5trbOQuJ0CDyZp9R8F5TsxZ9G5WoT_HV1omqjV7s3wyV1X0RNMGeVLIexpMxWm8HDiJ1MympWycL4anNF7444qFaXVEeP2LVtZyYpv7Xis01JgNMoxjmf7ARtvS8eRAqdlDFowf-2xh/s320/kidspuzzle.jpg" width="320" /></a>Right after dinner, the "big" kids worked together to put together the Sneaky 3D Puzzles from Patch Products. It was a lot of fun and they were anxious to put it together and took turns using the 3D glasses to see the finished product. The bright colors and sea scape was a blast for the kids to put together. They were able to put it together quickly and easily and were so proud to show it off when they completed it!<br />
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The biggest hit of the evening came not only from the delicious Christmas Cakes from Little Debbie, but from playing with the Play-Doh Mega Fun Factory and the Play-Doh Shape and Spin Elmo. The children were so enthralled by the way the Mega Fun Factory is battery operated and has an assembly line that moves the playdoh through the "factory". Elmo taught the preschoolers about shapes and colors. This was a hit and I put this on my list to purchase for other little ones in our lives. Here is a video of the kids playing with the Play-Doh items, making some interesting creations (video wouldn't load...will try later)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRMgAvsl1m_KQXYwFLTEf8W2YA0A4O84CRGeOEt7FXeJyc771QrG69Mm91jkwEWhQtzceZxkzG4Uc94eBPkhb99HLCnpClMBMOLn_Z7FV41RU2Xyfyz2JAlEAw4Q6ybbYZe49DslA9NLn/s1600/IMG_0205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRMgAvsl1m_KQXYwFLTEf8W2YA0A4O84CRGeOEt7FXeJyc771QrG69Mm91jkwEWhQtzceZxkzG4Uc94eBPkhb99HLCnpClMBMOLn_Z7FV41RU2Xyfyz2JAlEAw4Q6ybbYZe49DslA9NLn/s200/IMG_0205.JPG" width="150" /></a>Eldest N. loved the Playmobil Child's First Day of School kit. He's an avid Playmobil kid and was really excited to see this kit, one he hasn't seen before, and one he definitely wanted to add to his collection! I was so taken with the Playmobil, that my boys will be receiving some from Santa this year!<br />
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The evening was a lot of fun and a great way to kick off the holiday excitement. Thanks to MomSelect and all the participating companies for such a cool way to turn a family night into so much more!<br />
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<i>This review was provided from Build-A-Bear, Little Debbie, Patch Products, Play-Doh, and Playmobil as a part of the MomSelect program. I was given the opportunity to review the product for my personal opinion and share with my readers. I was not compensated for my time or written review. </i><i> </i> <br />
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</b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">~Amber</span></b></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-28357956574020874342010-11-24T09:59:00.001-06:002010-11-24T10:10:05.591-06:00More ThankfulIt seems each year as the holidays surround us, I'm always more thankful. More thankful for the obvious things and more thankful for the intricacies of life in general. <br />
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This year I feel more thankful than ever. I feel this is the first time in my life that I gave everything I had over to Him and away he went with my life. So many doors opened, so many new friends, new opportunities, and new ways of living. Amazing. That's the only word to describe what has been done in my life this year.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cdo8NCcTGiOEQd4B_p20PoC2Hz2hC_f2nAM25jfJvsp0Byhtw9j-LiZ7-CrBxn_nRzyFlpRRb3QCJ6Dpf1AHBo_nhJpReJKQLDshkcj114bl85fUdg_MgiqRDDo6ubJkdHkrS3BD3BaC/s1600/mamalachlan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cdo8NCcTGiOEQd4B_p20PoC2Hz2hC_f2nAM25jfJvsp0Byhtw9j-LiZ7-CrBxn_nRzyFlpRRb3QCJ6Dpf1AHBo_nhJpReJKQLDshkcj114bl85fUdg_MgiqRDDo6ubJkdHkrS3BD3BaC/s200/mamalachlan1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The things I am most thankful for are too many, but our little guy is the biggest blessing in our life this year. Almost exactly a year ago, I became pregnant with him and twenty weeks into our pregnancy we didn't know what God's plan was to be for him or for us. The ultrasound was missing some vital parts and the prognosis of our Little One wasn't one that we or any other expectant family wished for. We wept, we were scared, and we prayed. We summoned the prayers and hope of others that the follow-up testing would show that the first sonogram was wrong and our baby would be just fine. We prayed, begged, and pleaded. A week later with butterflies in my stomach, I laid on that bed in the ultrasound room and the second ( I'm not exaggerating) that the technician peeked in on our little guy, the vital parts that were once missing were right there. We were elated, excited, but most importantly thanking God for this blessing. Some of the people we shared our worries with said the technician probably just missed it, and maybe they did. I, however, believe it was His handiwork.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">My top ten things I am most thankful for this year are (in no particular order):</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XwIKMlkQz-I7mrUq5lN6emJNHFoAGi8LXfG0k8FwUphGNr08rxPnLqqopxj1LEpKISHwXi6JW1Mc3jPz3-sBKSztMvZjRhedTdGOaX_7PUtx6PvePnMjzwWg6M3OPS-QyYFmSW_KjAsK/s1600/006-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XwIKMlkQz-I7mrUq5lN6emJNHFoAGi8LXfG0k8FwUphGNr08rxPnLqqopxj1LEpKISHwXi6JW1Mc3jPz3-sBKSztMvZjRhedTdGOaX_7PUtx6PvePnMjzwWg6M3OPS-QyYFmSW_KjAsK/s320/006-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><ul style="text-align: center;"><li>My baby Lachlan</li>
<li>My busy boys</li>
<li>Another fabulous year with my husband</li>
<li>My family</li>
<li>My friends, old and new</li>
<li>A job that has brought me closer to the Lord </li>
<li>Dave Ramsey! :) </li>
<li>A piece of my personal life puzzle that was once missing</li>
<li>Health</li>
<li>13 wonderful weeks with my boys and just being "Mommy"</li>
</ul>Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone! Remember your blessings and count them every day! God Bless!Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-13646323969479029122010-11-21T18:42:00.000-06:002010-11-21T18:42:02.355-06:00Coupon SavvyTis the season to spend money...fa-la-la-la-la -la-la-la-laaaaaa! I love to buy gifts for other people and I've been known to go overboard, to spend too much, thus taking away from the real, true meaning of Christmas. <br />
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Since becoming more frugal and taking charge of our spending, see here, I take advantage of any and all opportunities to SAVE MONEY. I'm not cheap, I just look for good deals on quality items. I am not ashamed to say that with some things I am a name brand junkie. I do prefer to buy my kids nice things that last. <br />
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I am one of those people who sign up for every "club" at the stores that I frequently purchase from. No, I don't get their credit cards, I only get the "perk" cards. I receive coupons frequently and I only use them when I need something...and Christmas is the perfect time!<br />
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Today I shopped for my nieces and nephews since we were iced in at home. I got something for each of them and I saved a bundle! I used both online and paper coupons. One of my favorite sites for online coupons is <a href="http://retailmenot.com/">RetailMeNot.com</a> . It's a great site to find super coupons for virtually every place online. It's free, you don't have to be a member, and you, too, can submit your coupon codes. <br />
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If you're looking for an item that is not coupon related, you can look at a bunch of different sites at once by using <a href="http://www.beatmyprice.com/">BeatMyPrice.com </a>where you can enter the name of the product, the price you've seen, and where, and they'll comparison shop for you, listing out the places online that have the same item. It's fabulous! And a penny saved is a penny earned!<br />
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Another way to save is to use FREE SHIPPING! So many companies are offering it this season, and if you can shop from home, find a great deal, and have it shipped to you for free...why wouldn't you!? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNy5eHb03mIymGuaWQSwNXlfSj7RE2N3YvYS00mSmQsIfOUpYCF6swUIExValWHh9D7fpTBfIj7Zn7FVuTBujbO33ZWeCIMtDM-egHX2nyexvRBLjB2vpC5CjtSnws16y8kQE9RysVstMo/s1600/IMG_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNy5eHb03mIymGuaWQSwNXlfSj7RE2N3YvYS00mSmQsIfOUpYCF6swUIExValWHh9D7fpTBfIj7Zn7FVuTBujbO33ZWeCIMtDM-egHX2nyexvRBLjB2vpC5CjtSnws16y8kQE9RysVstMo/s320/IMG_0090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Enjoy the holidays and be a good consumer! Save yourself money and have fun buying for those you love. I enjoy the "game" of finding good deals, just ask my little Santa's helper!Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-46627956387861907002010-11-18T15:36:00.001-06:002010-11-18T15:41:48.961-06:00Food for Thought...Gossip GirlNo, not the show, but reality. Where does the line of caring for another person end and the line of gossip begin?<br />
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There are so many situations one wants to discuss with another close person, not openly with the world. And it's all about caring for another, but where does that care end and the gossip begin?<br />
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Let me know your thoughts....<br />
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I just really don't want to be one of THOSE people that talk about others with false information, share intimate details, or ruin trust that I've earned. I care.<br />
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I care about trust, relationships, and my faith. I want to be known as someone of good character that another can turn to in need of a hug, an ear, or a shoulder. And sometimes those conversations need to be shared with a third party, and maybe even a fourth, because I feel the need to help, to pray, and to lead.<br />
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It's gets sticky...and the line that separates is very fine. But I love and I care. <br />
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Gossip is vindictive. <br />
Love is kind.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-25180225334965243752010-11-17T14:01:00.000-06:002010-11-17T14:01:55.089-06:00Consistency.Ever since my beautiful new spice joined us in September, I've been a stay-at-home mom of 3 boys. It's been pretty fabulous, very busy, and a tad crazy. Along with all of the fun field trips to the zoo, the Mall of America, daddy's work and all the delicious treats we seem to whip up almost daily, comes the tantrums, the talking back, and thus, the discipline. I loathe discipline. It was my downfall as an educator, and is my downfall as a parent. Certainly I do discipline, and I always look for new ways to be effective in it, but those ways wear off.<br />
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My older boys have taken their turns (thank goodness) in going through their behavioral transitions in adding a new member to our family. The oldest, was and has been the most difficult. I felt and continue to feel that I am always "on" him about one thing or another. It's probably been the most difficult with him because he's always been so easy, never one to tantrum, never a negative word. It hurt to raise my voice at him or to discipline him with anything more than redirection. So, I devised a plan that utilized my learning.<br />
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I bought a 24 piece puzzle of one of his favorite characters from the movie Cars. With each GOOD choice he made, he earned a piece of the puzzle. The number of pieces he could earn in a day were endless and it reinforced the POSITIVE behaviors rather than taking away due to the NEGATIVE. He could never lose a piece of the puzzle, as we were focusing on the positive. In the end when he earned all the pieces HE chose the reward, which the first time was a trip with Grandpa to Cabela's. He was thrilled to choose his reward and proudly proclaimed, "I chose it". It was great to see such a triumphant smile on his face!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJ5A8VMUkAjidBTchiwcebplODqQ9uJDDcGXy1pVlyLG7jFv5GdHzInjkuAyQj758CajZddzbpZl7fdoFGZFoGQ8RGgaqET6ED1y1JAifvgn9KksQOtr9NhvXbfVa6noXdLQm4N3hyphenhyphennGz/s1600/IMG_0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJ5A8VMUkAjidBTchiwcebplODqQ9uJDDcGXy1pVlyLG7jFv5GdHzInjkuAyQj758CajZddzbpZl7fdoFGZFoGQ8RGgaqET6ED1y1JAifvgn9KksQOtr9NhvXbfVa6noXdLQm4N3hyphenhyphennGz/s320/IMG_0069.JPG" width="320" /></a>It was a great choice! It worked! And it worked WELL! He was so driven to earn the puzzle pieces and the negative behaviors quickly dwindled to few or none in a day. Which in turn made my consistency dwindle as well. As soon as the behaviors were gone, I forgot to keep going, keep reinforcing the great behavior I was seeing. And although the old behaviors are quickly making a reappearance, I have realized he needs that positive reinforcement and I need to continue working on being CONSISTENT. Following the plan for a length of time longer than only 2 puzzles. <br />
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So, I'm back at it! Giving away puzzle pieces, rewarding the positive behaviors I see. <br />
And of course, working on my consistency.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3852651517966771698.post-27640794577761408362010-11-15T21:00:00.001-06:002010-11-17T12:15:14.600-06:00Baby's First Snow...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4LYLYcBAeo2QEsm7oqQ_2udp6QJ4VuC0JUac8KEqOFNyDzACpIAseZGRwTm_WyW8mk-DyEiHQmWVN-Hebn9y2bnsTmcheaDJm1icrBKDGfBbnCMrv7GvvWH7EV8gesSKzlnuXEdjB0rt/s1600/IMG_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4LYLYcBAeo2QEsm7oqQ_2udp6QJ4VuC0JUac8KEqOFNyDzACpIAseZGRwTm_WyW8mk-DyEiHQmWVN-Hebn9y2bnsTmcheaDJm1icrBKDGfBbnCMrv7GvvWH7EV8gesSKzlnuXEdjB0rt/s320/IMG_0050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01524497550414253552noreply@blogger.com0