tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78968501470162860802024-03-13T20:03:01.280-07:00Queen of My UniverseLiving a happy and healthy life one day at a time.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.comBlogger225125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-81913402923419847472014-06-10T10:39:00.001-07:002014-06-10T10:39:07.268-07:00Seven Places/Six Wants<br />
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So I was going to do seven wants until I realized that most of my wants were basically places...so here we go with six places!<br />
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1. LONDON!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmspt1iASgIAfP-HenBC9riOv7_VymA_yU6NoqXE7OalOzkiMii0y-ymNALzvshT_0tmjlz3EPb0l34Q9_ABYwA-HMPgCZ4y7iSORdTBN1_D9kLwdpL14y6IrsSYvGpUexIHGtUJ9w2Io/s1600/london-world-landscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmspt1iASgIAfP-HenBC9riOv7_VymA_yU6NoqXE7OalOzkiMii0y-ymNALzvshT_0tmjlz3EPb0l34Q9_ABYwA-HMPgCZ4y7iSORdTBN1_D9kLwdpL14y6IrsSYvGpUexIHGtUJ9w2Io/s1600/london-world-landscape.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://londonhotelvideos.info/images/london-world-landscape.jpg">Courtesy</a></td></tr>
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Hubs and I are in the dreaming stage of planning a trip to London. It's first up on our list. I have wanted to visit since I was a young girl.<br />
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Amanda over at <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/travel/bakery-hopping-in-london.html">KevinandAmanda.com</a> has been posting photos from their recent trip and she's making me completely jealous not to mention salivate over the amazing food and her out of this world photography skills.<br />
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2. ROME<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBqLo0p3M2s_b25c1i411j0yYGfv0vxLgtUmdRCjk6xazevJHt6mDKE7fJkWidgNGl51rPiTorRemckY3QXkeu7fIncLB9jXky8FkLu_EM4TS-sw3yEBCBoJ_KesRTxEjlUt5rB4hSAA/s1600/rome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBqLo0p3M2s_b25c1i411j0yYGfv0vxLgtUmdRCjk6xazevJHt6mDKE7fJkWidgNGl51rPiTorRemckY3QXkeu7fIncLB9jXky8FkLu_EM4TS-sw3yEBCBoJ_KesRTxEjlUt5rB4hSAA/s1600/rome.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g187791-Rome_Lazio-Vacations.html">Courtesy</a></td></tr>
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I seriously want to visit <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g187791-Rome_Lazio-Vacations.html">Rome.</a> The beautiful architecture, the food, the history. It's on our bucket list.<br />
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3. CALIFORNIA<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPSxWnfP-M6ExViy5zNhSMhibkremtMBGLJg2Vs8gCKJaV64e6aH_hLmwB9PMXGFTj4kUwZsjT_VgzlDBRh9VbQq6gsL5xxVslj9LZykxbTjuF3pSNXQkgk3EvlSm_HLIisFbu5pYDfw/s1600/Kennedy125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPSxWnfP-M6ExViy5zNhSMhibkremtMBGLJg2Vs8gCKJaV64e6aH_hLmwB9PMXGFTj4kUwZsjT_VgzlDBRh9VbQq6gsL5xxVslj9LZykxbTjuF3pSNXQkgk3EvlSm_HLIisFbu5pYDfw/s1600/Kennedy125.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Brother, Dad, and I near San Francisco in 1989.</td></tr>
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In 1989, my family and my aunt and uncle visited my cousin and her family in San Francisco. Together we all visited Los Angeles and Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Around 1990, my family moved to a city outside Oakland. Lately I have wanted to visit my childhood haunts - the apartment and house we lived in, my elementary and middle schools, just everywhere. I think it would be fun to show Hubs where I spent 4 years of my life.<br />
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4. PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA<br />
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I <a href="http://queenofmyuniverse82.blogspot.com/2014/04/trip-fever.html">blogged</a> recently about the trip fever I have been having lately and the beach is at the top of that list!<br />
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5. WRITE A BOOK or BECOME A SUCCESSFUL BLOGGER<br />
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I have some serious hero bloggers and writers and I would love to join their ranks. I don't know if that will ever happen but until then I'll keep plugging away at what I'm doing! You never know what the future holds.<br />
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6. BE A BETTER PHOTOGRAPHER - Capture Life<br />
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I LOVE taking pictures. People even pay me to take their picture. But I don't do a good job capturing the everyday. As Hubs and I look at our 10th wedding anniversary coming up, we have been thinking about 10 years worth of memories. I have loads of pictures of trips and big special events but then again, I don't have enough. Maybe being a photographer does that to you, you crave that image memory. I need to devote more time to just capturing what's happening around me.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-48218805940606157222014-06-09T08:56:00.005-07:002014-06-09T08:56:55.524-07:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hubs and I are on a cleaner eating kick. Of course we are in our ever present search for new menu ideas that are healthy and this week we really did well and since last week we have both already seen results on the scale! Here is this week's menu...<br />
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Since we grocery shop on Thursday nights, I'll start then with our menu...<br />
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Thursday - Grocery night and out to eat. It was Mexican and wasn't entirely healthy but we didn't want hungry bellies for the grocery store. See I can rationalize this well. :-)<br />
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Friday - Quinoa Meatball Subs - I used <a href="http://fitfoodiefinds.com/2014/01/quinoa-meatball-sliders/">this recipe</a> but instead of sliders I used full-length whole wheat buns. Delicious!<br />
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Saturday - I had a wedding photography gig and Hubs spent the day painting so we opted for easy yet it wasn't too bad at all. We picked up a Palmero's Flatbread Pizza from BOGO at Publix. We split it for 410 calories each and paired it with a salad. Delicious and filling.<br />
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Sunday - Turkey Meatloaf, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans<br />
I made up my own recipe using ground turkey, parsley, minced garlic, onions, oats, and quinoa. YUM!<br />
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Monday - Spaghetti and Salad (again using ground turkey and whole wheat noodles)<br />
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Tuesday - Chicken Stir-fry over rice<br />
Picked up some sesame-ginger sauce from Publix. Planning to add onions, squash, and zucchini<br />
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Wednesday - Fish (either some frozen whiting filets we have or regular Gorton's Fish Sticks), Rice, and asparagus<br />
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For tons of meal ideas (even ones you can make healthy) visit Orgjunkie.com's <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/06/menu-plan-monday-june-9-14.html">Menu Plan Monday!</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-57731677322827287922014-06-02T18:59:00.000-07:002014-06-02T18:59:25.704-07:0010 Day Challenege - 8 Fears<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikitdm3g4GaEZyAltWHodvnYSvQ5V9BtlnL9ymvlhdHvUeFw5sBVDfQwYmt1L92GhIwi5AMOqBGzz00JSX_luA40-jSLHFd5nrmJli5KWeafyxt_i2kIN_rmO26DGcHyc53wLU7c5ZZ6s/s1600/10-Day-You-Challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikitdm3g4GaEZyAltWHodvnYSvQ5V9BtlnL9ymvlhdHvUeFw5sBVDfQwYmt1L92GhIwi5AMOqBGzz00JSX_luA40-jSLHFd5nrmJli5KWeafyxt_i2kIN_rmO26DGcHyc53wLU7c5ZZ6s/s1600/10-Day-You-Challenge.jpg" height="195" width="400" /></a></div>
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Eight Fears - Even if they are completely irrational...<br />
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1. Getting beheaded. Or just generally getting my head separated from my body. Totally irrational. But a real fear.<br />
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2. Getting Stuck in an Elevator<br />
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3. The Dark. I go to sleep with the tv on and I sleep with a nightlight. No joke.<br />
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4. Raw (or bad) meat. Undercooked. Or just bad. Yuckie!<br />
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5. Flamingos. No joke. They creep me out. I think it's their legs. <br />
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6. Tripping or falling in public. Or just general public humiliation.</div>
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7. Needles. This is sort of ironic seeing as I'm a diabetic...</div>
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8. The Ocean. Okay, not the ocean exactly but super strong undertows. I can remember riding waves on an inter-tube and getting pulled under and the undertow and the breaking waves. I couldn't stand up despite being in less than 3 feet of later. </div>
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<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-44113003582410505342014-05-29T18:57:00.000-07:002014-05-29T18:57:00.852-07:0010 Day You Challenge - Day 2<br />
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Day One - Nine Loves<br />
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#1 - Hubs<br />
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Some people say your spouse can't be your best friend but we truly are best friends. We are both complete nerds and have the best adventures.</div>
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#2 - My Parents</div>
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My parents are pretty awesome. They are cool cats who raised me to be strong and independent.</div>
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#3 - My Best Friends</div>
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And sadly we don't have one single picture with our entire group!!</div>
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#4 - The Kiddos</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVpj0AoKPhTOcSgYm0DHkmlhIhslg1Q2JME3u2MPRPU0VmLv4ywivI-B2PdvcUJhd1kaAOjb_UuiSOeTHwv5uwe0_yXZxSRsjaHhcZl4JJseoxN9vQMp-R3MqHJXmY2sywY7JAGK-dTbM/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVpj0AoKPhTOcSgYm0DHkmlhIhslg1Q2JME3u2MPRPU0VmLv4ywivI-B2PdvcUJhd1kaAOjb_UuiSOeTHwv5uwe0_yXZxSRsjaHhcZl4JJseoxN9vQMp-R3MqHJXmY2sywY7JAGK-dTbM/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The red-headed baby doll.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnwJoXfCCX5SUrBC9KaLuPuH-lhg0x8QyFAyAB6axH6dWNhBXZ_aLQiFkAPXiAt7R1jvpJMHbwxtDg0jbn6wzYNBc9VWpwZ6AiPsvrFgaz526N3K-u5MGcS3_XcPpJ6OA4k4DQbkU_gI/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnwJoXfCCX5SUrBC9KaLuPuH-lhg0x8QyFAyAB6axH6dWNhBXZ_aLQiFkAPXiAt7R1jvpJMHbwxtDg0jbn6wzYNBc9VWpwZ6AiPsvrFgaz526N3K-u5MGcS3_XcPpJ6OA4k4DQbkU_gI/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super Handsome Nerd Baby</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRmxCmokyA_9MKAbWbXKv7OkIDHDA3SzDpPMII_ZO7wyJ4J6GaYC8Sd75bSW56Q9BteAZRu5ha0MzunQwWmwocvxdGQJBhwA0d__wWXMHpMZXwPJE3rAh8MnbcX2VW8MjOiqCdOxFuXg/s1600/pic5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRmxCmokyA_9MKAbWbXKv7OkIDHDA3SzDpPMII_ZO7wyJ4J6GaYC8Sd75bSW56Q9BteAZRu5ha0MzunQwWmwocvxdGQJBhwA0d__wWXMHpMZXwPJE3rAh8MnbcX2VW8MjOiqCdOxFuXg/s1600/pic5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Princess</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMUPfTlmCgigg1x7GK0YQxi8mzVnIURO2hGtN4kOtWHdSJuzchJhHMpcYxZhXp5RHil50qv2GlAZovFQAJgluLqHEVWlj0nAn8SZYzhZV4NeIYV0xLWmbTN8pE_TxuHI2OX55ulbq4I-I/s1600/pic4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMUPfTlmCgigg1x7GK0YQxi8mzVnIURO2hGtN4kOtWHdSJuzchJhHMpcYxZhXp5RHil50qv2GlAZovFQAJgluLqHEVWlj0nAn8SZYzhZV4NeIYV0xLWmbTN8pE_TxuHI2OX55ulbq4I-I/s1600/pic4.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite ball player.</td></tr>
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#5 - My Fur Babies</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdXvWB9vvcTcySdiSJYFgG31iz8vTcl386pQWG0W1CLEpMZhR0ebhHaVPromRcbCupeIL6hkKTyRt0414bXkON6PQP7I3mvL28Mn0FqA3Xv2Iy2VBsQefO7M6BDBFIA98SsleaJKZoWw/s1600/pic10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdXvWB9vvcTcySdiSJYFgG31iz8vTcl386pQWG0W1CLEpMZhR0ebhHaVPromRcbCupeIL6hkKTyRt0414bXkON6PQP7I3mvL28Mn0FqA3Xv2Iy2VBsQefO7M6BDBFIA98SsleaJKZoWw/s1600/pic10.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
Shelby is our rescue puppy. She's a total mutt but obviously she has a LOT of German Shepherd. We think her other half is Corgi. She's a total doll and is seriously glued to my side every minute that I am home.<br />
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Jax is another rescue but the way cats think, he probably thinks he rescued us. He is a curious cat but really a sweetheart. He loves to cuddle on my shoulder and his favorite spot is on the couch behind my head.</div>
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#6 - The Beach</div>
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To clarify...Panama City Beach. Our favorite vacation spot.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrBV_NIgnD1GJMbqTCW5y3ggeK_WS0TLtU3EsJxT41AGQwViyLgI9DipBlQv90PuEsjPhLWy-92dkldRoFOZpzmdP_brZ7-pYXqG9S0TJ3839fFgeggqIAvthlQwIrBD_IXKu9-zPHOU/s1600/pic15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrBV_NIgnD1GJMbqTCW5y3ggeK_WS0TLtU3EsJxT41AGQwViyLgI9DipBlQv90PuEsjPhLWy-92dkldRoFOZpzmdP_brZ7-pYXqG9S0TJ3839fFgeggqIAvthlQwIrBD_IXKu9-zPHOU/s1600/pic15.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
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#7 - Photography</div>
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I have a photography business that started out of my favorite hobby. I love taking pictures. I love meeting new people through photography. I have had the opportunity to capture countless family and children sessions and I'm about to photograph my 5th wedding.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnXGll5LyqCJ10QRxBvkSu1mGHFqd3SskcgADRWlkxKuA0xcJWLI2oGR3LB-iCG2F0RvrOiOf0QYrbkikLEIXAArGKGZAoi7PZA3thRzcWLj-X9PvZfTweKFHj0V68V7B6LHe4AZJf-A/s1600/pic12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnXGll5LyqCJ10QRxBvkSu1mGHFqd3SskcgADRWlkxKuA0xcJWLI2oGR3LB-iCG2F0RvrOiOf0QYrbkikLEIXAArGKGZAoi7PZA3thRzcWLj-X9PvZfTweKFHj0V68V7B6LHe4AZJf-A/s1600/pic12.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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#8 - Thrift Store Shopping</div>
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I love browsing thrift stores and in our area, there are quite a few to explore. You never know what you are going to find. One time Hubs bought a car seat (like literally a bucket seat from a vehicle) and the other day I found a brand new DKNY sweater.</div>
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#9 - Blogs</div>
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I love reading blogs. I don't comment as much as I should but I am getting better. Here are some of my favorites (in absolutely no particular order).</div>
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<a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/">Plain Chicken</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pbfingers.com/">Peanut Butter Fingers</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mamalaughlin.com/">Mama Laughlin</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.skinnymeg.com/">Skinny Meg</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/">Kevin and Amanda</a></div>
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<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/">The Pioneer Woman</a></div>
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#10 - Reading</div>
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I like to read when I can sit down and really enjoy it. I like all sorts of genres - Romance, SciFi, Fantasy, Mystery, Classics, etc. This past weekend I explored Play Books on my tablet and started reading <u>The Secret Garden</u>. I know that I read this in school but that a little while ago so it is like reading a brand new book. </div>
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Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-14992447864407040192014-05-28T20:57:00.000-07:002014-05-28T20:57:00.308-07:0010 Day You Challenge - Day 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf61IAwJYLXdYr89G-wNwxgXsuSVZxwhyt-OqWLb16WjZsNUArRxxiyaqrEKKCK7rAkD6QotzIYkP6j737hPTfqp6BRUTmSbDfQy9Yw6OihFySF4DklUEY2gOZI1J46qL1aWC-spz_pc/s1600/10-Day-You-Challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf61IAwJYLXdYr89G-wNwxgXsuSVZxwhyt-OqWLb16WjZsNUArRxxiyaqrEKKCK7rAkD6QotzIYkP6j737hPTfqp6BRUTmSbDfQy9Yw6OihFySF4DklUEY2gOZI1J46qL1aWC-spz_pc/s1600/10-Day-You-Challenge.jpg" height="312" width="640" /></a></div>
I came across this the 10 Day You Challenge on one of my favorite blogs - <a href="http://www.pbfingers.com/">Peanut Butter Fingers</a>. I decided to give it a try.<br />
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Day 1 - Ten Secrets - I don't really know how good these "secrets" are.<br />
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#1 - I want to be a writer! I write some but keep it hidden. I am not comfortable sharing it but writing and getting published is definitely on my bucket list.<br />
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#2 - I have a soft spot for boy bands. This may not really be a secret but I love some Backstreet Ones, New Kids on the Block, One Direction...etc. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/r-skZimFOOI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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#3 - I have to hype myself up to run. When I'm running, I get pretty unmotivated very quickly. I have to constantly coach myself to keep going. It's easier when I take Shelby because then I can say "Come on, Girl. Just a little bit further," and everyone thinks I'm talking to the dog.<br />
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#4 - I'm quite OCD. Some things I can let be ridiculously messy and unorganized but certain things have to have their place before I can relax. Sometimes it happens with other people's stuff and I can't relax until I right the wrong. <br />
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#5 - When I lost enough weight to stop shopping in the plus size section, I did a little happy dance in the dressing room. <br />
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#6 - I absolutely despise wearing a swimsuit. They are horrible creations. Each time I'm in a swimsuit, I'm constantly thinking about how uncomfortable I am. And I suck in the entire time I'm wearing one.<br />
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#7 - I'm scared of the dark. I have to have light. I cannot go to sleep in a completely dark room. I fall asleep every night with the television on.<br />
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#8 - I can't stand nicknames like Kid, Honey, Sweetie, or any of those. But I never correct someone if they use a nickname. I'm generally friendly that way. <br />
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#9 - I once got my haircut and I told the girl that I liked it but I was crying before I ever got to my car. It was sooooo short. I cried all the way home. <br />
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#10 - At Potluck meals, I only get the foods when I know who made them. I have an irrational fear of buffets and potlucks in general so I make sure I know who made the food before I will even try it. <br />
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Stay tuned...I think my Nine Loves is much better than my Ten Secrets.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-24764340446023195952014-05-27T18:19:00.002-07:002014-05-28T06:29:51.127-07:00Memorial Day Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On sort of a whim, we decided to go camping Friday night. There was supposed to be a new meteor shower to see and the weather was supposed to be great so we set out for my cousin's farm. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't ya just love my packing list!?</td></tr>
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My cousins have property only about 20 minutes from our house. It's a giant farm with loads of open sky. It was the perfect setting. We found a nice campsite and set up our tent and built a little fire. The evening turned out much cooler than expected so the fire helped knock the chill off.<br />
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We took Shelby. First of all, Shelby LOVES to ride in the Jeep and exploring is her favorite hobby. She was in farm heaven with all of the smells from horses, chicken, crops, and good Alabama grass.<br />
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All of the camping essentials - fire, comfy chairs, and the Jeep that got you there.</div>
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My cousins were there preparing a field for planting so we got to visit for a while. When they headed for home, we fired up our tiny new camp grill and made burgers. We had burgers, chips, and <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2010/10/monster-munch.html">monster munch</a> for dessert.</div>
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The meteor shower ended up being a little lackluster and we were just plain exhausted so we ended up falling asleep somewhere during the 11 o'clock hour. </div>
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Shelby kept us up off and on all night. Sleeping in a new place was exciting stuff. </div>
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We ended up waking up around 5 Saturday morning. Camping makes you an early riser. </div>
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My cousin came by early to get started on their planting and we attempted to make breakfast. All we ended up making was sausage patties but we all three ( me, the Hubs, and Shelby) enjoyed them.</div>
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I had a photoshoot on Saturday morning but afterwards we headed to my parents' house to enjoy some dinner. My dad was hungry for bbq so he went a little wild on the grill. We had ribs, pork steaks, Italian sausage, smoked sausage, and chicken kabobs with squash, zucchini, and onions. We also had homemade potato salad and coleslaw and corn on the cob. It was so delicious!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daddy knows his way around a grill.</td></tr>
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We spent the rest of the weekend hanging around the house, working outside (Hubs!), and swimming at my parents' house. On Monday, I had a late lunch with my parents, grandmother, and aunt. It was another round of my dad's grilling goodness. <br />
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My parents have 5,000 beach towels but this one made me giggle. They have had it since my brother picked it out when Aladdin first came out in theaters (1992!). Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-37172767439231387422014-05-19T07:02:00.004-07:002014-05-19T07:02:37.795-07:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So I was completely devastated this morning. I had a gain of 5lbs on the scale! This gain was due to improper planning - no meal plans, no lunch preparedness and eating entirely too much junk! Hubs and I are determined to be better - plan better, shop better, be better. I really want to try more clean eating. I really need to focus on less fatty and carb-heavy foods. Instead of dwelling on that horrible number on the scale, I plan to get rid of it by focusing, planning, and working hard!<br />
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Here is our menu this week - <br />
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Saturday - Stuffed Peppers (these were prepared by the Publix Meat Dept and not homemade), loaded potato casserole, and green beans<br />
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Sunday - Country Fried Steak (this is part of that no planning/bad decisions thing...), mac & cheese, leftover loaded potato casserole<br />
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Monday - Chinese "Fried" Rice and <a href="http://queenofmyuniverse82.blogspot.com/2012/12/chinese-chicken-salad.html">Chinese Chicken Salad</a><br />
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Tuesday - Steak and Chicken Kabobs (with squash, zucchini, and onions), rice, and corn<br />
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Wednesday - Breakfast at home - whole wheat pancakes and smoked sausage<br />
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Thursday - Grocery night with a plan for healthy, clean foods!<br />
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For hundreds of menu plan ideas, visit orgjunkie.com's <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/05/menu-plan-monday-may-1914.html">Menu Plan Monday!</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-31870881801559836302014-05-05T20:49:00.000-07:002014-05-05T20:49:04.040-07:00Our Weekend and Day One of StaycationEach year we take a week's vacation in May, usually near Hubs' birthday (May 7th). This week is our vacation and we decided to have a staycation this year.<br />
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Our vacation really started on Saturday. Hubs worked around the house all day and then met me at a wedding. I spent the day decorating and getting beautified for the wedding of my one of my oldest friends. <br />
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I met up with my friends at a local winery and event venue called <a href="http://www.vizzinifarmswinery.com/">Vizzini Farms Winery</a>. We decorated early for the evening wedding then headed to a local hotel to get ready. It was a nice, busy day full of laughter and good company. They introduced me to mimosas. Wow I was missing out! <br />
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Forgive the blurry pictures. These were the best I could get in the crowded hotel room. But above is the bride herself and me before we dressed. <br />
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Above is the maid of honor and my dear friend G and I after we got ready. <br />
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The wedding took place at 6pm. The weather was picture perfect. N chose navy blue and gray for her colors. Instead of tuxedos, the groom and groomsmen wore gray pants and vests with navy blue ties and each bridesmaid had a different style dress in Davids Bridal in marine blue. Instead of traditional bouquets, the bridesmaids carried white lanterns. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed to wines made the property (the green apple Riesling was my favorite) and a buffet of chicken Parmesan (with white alfredo sauce), potatoes, mixed vegetables, and rolls. There was dancing and some pretty amazing cupcakes (made by the bride). We gave the newly married couple a candle-light send off. It was a great evening for a wedding.<br />
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The only bad moment came on the way home. There was a bad wreck and traffic was down to one lane. As we approached the wreck, a cop stopped us then asked us to pull over. We were very confused but I pulled out our registration papers and proof of insurance. When the officer came to the window, he said they had received reports all evening that we were joyriding drunk, running people off the road and being reckless. We were stunned. We both said it couldn't have been us and that we had only gotten on the interstate a mile back and had been at a wedding for hours and hours. I was still wearing my bridesmaid dresses and we still had the candles from the send off. The candles were still warm. I was even prepared to call the bride's family. He didn't exactly believe us and had Hubs do an eye test. He concluded that he wasn't drunk. Well of course not. I informed him again that I promise it wasn't us. He sort of apologized and let us go on. It was the weirdest 5 minutes of my life probably. Being accused of something pretty horrible and yet we really couldn't defend ourselves without coming across as being disrespectful. He never asked us for identification or anything. I hope that if the "reports" were real, that that person was caught. It was quite scary and just strange. We drowned our nerves in burgers and chocolate shakes from Steak and Shake. <br />
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So for our first day off, we slept in late. 10 am. We never do that! We ran errands and enjoyed some Mexican food for Cinco de Mayo. Hubs worked outside a bit more and I visited with him while he worked. Now we have been enjoying a Dr. Who marathon for the past 4 hours. A very nice staycation day.<br />
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-85896584940873926222014-05-01T07:55:00.002-07:002014-05-01T07:55:42.064-07:00Old FriendsThis weekend I am in a wedding of one of my oldest friends. Nicole and I knew each other when we were really young but became friends in 7th grade. We are going on 20 years of friendship. Every teenage memory includes Nicole. Our group of friends were always together in some form or fashion. I know this friendship is forever because it is that type of friendship where we don't see each other or spend near as much time together as we should but when we are together, things just fall into place. It's comfortable. And real. <br />
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I'm super excited to be a bridesmaid in Nicole's wedding and celebrate this incredible time with them.<br />
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In honor of the wedding and since today is "Throwback Thursday," I want to share this beloved photo.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">E, K, Me, G, and Nicole (the bride!)</td></tr>
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This photo was taken our senior year of high school - homecoming actually. These four girls (I'm in the center) made up my entire high school career. We had other members of our group but this was the core. I have so many memories that include these women. It's amazing how much we have changed. Our lives have taken unexpected turns but we are all still hanging on for the ride. </div>
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E went on to work full-time for I guess all of these years. She earned a bachelor's and master's in English. She's as sassy as ever! When I saw her at a celebration for Nicole, it has been years since we saw each other. We never skipped a beat. She's the exact same tell-it-like-it-is gal and I would never want her to change. Oh, and she drives a convertible.<br />
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K went off to school right after graduation. She is now a science teacher at our alma mater and lives in our hometown (as does E). She has a cute little boy - the only one of us with a child in fact. And soon she will begin teaching kids of people we graduated with! Scary! <br />
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G has a degree in art and works for a research department for the same univeristy I do (and Nicole too for that matter). I gave her a reference when she was hired. :-) G was never a fashion guru in school. Just be glad she showed up. She didn't care for hair, makeup, and definitely not clothing. Today though, her closet is probably 3 times bigger than mine. She always looks amazing and her hair and makeup are flawless. <br />
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Nicole is the same as she always was. She's genuinely sweet and thoughtful. She was always sort of the mother hen to G and I and she's still that way. She plans everything out to the minute - which came in especially handy for wedding planning. She has a degree in interior design. It fits her. She works for one of the academic schools on campus. And I think she's thinking of going back to school to be a teacher. She'll be a great teacher. And hopefully she will add mommy to her list soon too. If there was one person who was born to be a mother, it would be Nicole. And she had plenty of practice helping to raise G and I. :-) G's parents adopted Nicole. It was so very fitting that she and G became "real" sisters. I can't wait to watch their mom this weekend. She's going to be a puddle of emotion for sure.<br />
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So that's them. My old friends. Four incredibly strong, beautiful, and independent women. In this group of women, three of them lost their mothers before they turned 25. It shocked my soul each time. But they kept going. <br />
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Once upon a time we were just five band nerds with no responsibility. Now we have husbands, kids, careers, homes, retirements, and the list goes on. We have each traveled the paths in front of us and I don't know about myself but they are traveling with grace and strength.<br />
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I'm glad to have each of them in my life - even though we don't see each other as much as we should. Maybe this big celebration will help bring us together more often. <br />
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Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-27808266178661368032014-04-28T09:58:00.000-07:002014-04-28T09:58:01.160-07:00Trip FeverWe are in the midst of purchasing a home and all of the fun stuff that goes along with that so this spring, instead of taking a trip, we are having a stay-cation. And while I do love a nice, relaxing week at home, I also LOVE to travel. And it doesn't help that my best friend and her family are currently at DisneyWorld. <br />
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We are thinking of going somewhere in the fall, so we need to narrow down a location soon. I'm up for anything - cruise, beach, mountains, etc. <br />
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I was going through albums on Facebook and I was filled with good memories of our recent travels...<br />
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<strong>Panama City Beach</strong><br />
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Definitely one our favorite places. We always stay at the same place, the <a href="http://ospreymotel.com/">Osprey Motel</a>. It's an older, family-owned hotel and each room has a kitchen and balcony. What I love most about the Osprey, well besides their unbelievable prices, is that this isn't a high-rise like so many places in PCB now. It has 5 floors with easy access to parking both underneath the building and in a lot directly across the street. No waiting 15 minutes for an elevator or traffic leaving a parking deck. And there is ample space on the beachfront. I always feel at home here and that is a big deal to me. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Osprey Motel (view from the beach)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our balcony</td></tr>
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In PCB, one of our favorite places to visit is <a href="http://www.simon.com/mall/pier-park">Pier Park</a>. Located just a short walk from the Opsrey, Pier Park is a huge shopping and entertainment area. We enjoy browsing the stores, hitting the movie theater (a beach tradition for us), and having a snack. In our past visits, we have eaten at <a href="http://www.margaritavillepanamacitybeach.com/">Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville</a>, <a href="http://www.hofbraupcb.com/">Hofbrau Beer Garden</a>, and <a href="http://www.redbrickpizza.com/">Red Brick Pizza.</a> We have also made stops at <a href="http://www.tootsies.net/main_subpage.php?pg=thebeach">Tootsies</a> for drinks and <a href="https://www.kilwins.com/panamacitybeach">Kilwin's</a> for delicious fudge and ice cream sundaes.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deliciousness from Kilwins</td></tr>
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Stop #2 - Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee<br />
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I have loved going up to the Smoky Mountains since I was young. My parents took my brother and I just about every summer. My parents visited Gatlinburg on their honeymoon as did Hubs and I. <br />
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It is one of those classic places with lots of shops, amazing food, and beautiful scenery. And it is home to one of my most favorite places ever - <a href="http://www.dollywood.com/">Dollywood!</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This area is also home to about 5,459 breakfast places. Hubs loves it.</td></tr>
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I seriously love Dollywood.</div>
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We have mainly stayed at hotels because we tend to go and do a lot. We don't usually kick back and relax when we are in the mountains. I don't know why. On our last trip in April 2012, we visited my <a href="http://www.old-mill.com/">The Old Mill</a> - my new favorite restaurant. Their food is amazing. And the restaurant has a water wheel outside. I love it. My parents LOVE their corn chowder and last time I was there, I took back $50 worth of corn chowder mix for them.</div>
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<strong>Next up, we get a little interational...Cruise #1</strong><br />
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We went on our first cruise in August 2011 with my parents and some friends. Carnival still had a port in Mobile at the time so we took the quick trip to Mobile and boarded the ship around lunchtime on a Monday. Our cruise was a 5 day to Cozumel and Calica, Mexico. It was a great experience for us. No sea sickness for me (which is huge because I get nauseated quickly on various transportation devices) and everyday was perfect weather (well it was HOT).<br />
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Cruises are most famous for their food - all you could eat, anytime of the day. We indulged. A lot. We had buffets at breakfast and lunch and formal dining for dinner. Plus, ice cream anytime I wanted. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken and Fetticini in the formal dining room</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carnival's famous Chocolate Melting Cake. Amazing.</td></tr>
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<strong>Cruise #2</strong></div>
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Hubs and I took cruise #2 with my cousin K in October 2012. We left out of New Orleans for a 4 day trip to Cozumel and back. We visited a different port in Cozumel so that was really nice. </div>
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We actually took the same ship as our first cruise. But for us, we just enjoyed the relaxation and weren't so concerned about a different ship, or even a different location. Plus, it helped us get around faster since we were Elation veterans.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Docked at Cozumel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deliciously fresh guacamole and salsa.</td></tr>
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While my first cruise proved perfect in terms of ship movement, this trip made up for it. It was very windy and we felt it quite a bit more. The night we left Cozumel, they posted some nice bags to use in case you got sick. Thankfully I had plenty of dramimine but I could see where those bags might come in handy. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barf bags.</td></tr>
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So overall, the sea sickness was a bit rough this time. And land sickness was actually really bad. I spent all evening at home in my recliner. But that wasn't Carnival's fault. <br />
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Despite all of the bad press Carnival received last year, I am still up for another trip. I know that certain circumstances can't be helped. But one thing I have to praise Carnival for is their staff. Everyone we have never came in contact with was friendly and always willing to help. They really see to it that your vacation is as perfect as possible. Really and truly, the only thing you have to do for yourself is shower. They do everything else. <br />
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I highly recommend that everyone take a cruise at least once. If you aren't sure, take a 3 day. That will really tell you if a longer cruise is in the cards for you. I don't know if a 7-day is my thing but 4 and 5 were just perfect. <br />
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<strong>And lastly, Gulf Shores, Alabama</strong><br />
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We visited Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, with some of our best friends and their little girl last July. We stayed with Ash's dad, who lives in Orange Beach. They graciously opened their home to us and while it was cramped quarters, we had a blast. Besides one minor hiccup with our car, it was a great vacation. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubs and EK on the beach for the 4th of July</td></tr>
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While we were in town, we got our fill of seafood for sure. First our first real evening, we picked up steamed shrimp from <a href="http://www.billys-seafood.com/">Billy's Seafood.</a> Their motto is "If it swims we got it." The shrimp was amazing! We took it back to the condo and had corn on the cob, potatoes, and hush puppies. Delicious.<br />
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For lunch one day, we hit up the <a href="http://www.shrimpbasket.com/">Shrimp Basket</a> on all-you-can-eat popcorn shrimp day. It was so good! And their tarter sauce is amazing.<br />
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One place Hubs really wanted to try was <a href="http://www.throwedrolls.com/">Lambert's Cafe. </a>They have delicious southern foods and several all-you-can-eat pass-arounds like fried okra, fried potatoes, and hot rolls (thrown to you). The only thing I don't care for is the humor they use. For example, one waitress (not ours) acted like she tripped and her trick cup looked like coke was about to be all over me. And some of them are sarcastic. Some people think that is hilarious but I'm not a fan. Just give me good food and leave me alone. I'm not high-maintenance. The food really was delicious though and I took back a plate of leftovers for a midnight snack.<br />
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And that last place we tried was the <a href="http://www.originaloysterhouse.com/">Original Oyster House.</a> It is a landmark. The wait was 45-1 hour. However, they overlooked up so at 1 hour and 45 minutes, Jim went to check and sure enough, we were skipped. Anyway, I had the salad bar (which was yummy!) and shrimp. I wasn't so impressed with my dinner. And everyone sort of had an issue. Either it was wrong or in some cases the fish was way overcooked. So I won't say I wouldn't go back but I wasn't so impressed since it has such a reputation. <br />
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So now I'm craving a trip even more! <br />
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Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-19806633538302937652014-04-21T22:58:00.000-07:002014-04-22T10:58:54.874-07:00Aunt MelI have four adorable kids in my life. They call me Aunt Mel. I am truly blessed to have them all in my life. I currently do not have any children but these special kiddos make my world a little bit brighter. They are the children of mine and Hubs' best friends. Two couples who I truly wouldn't know what to do without. They are the kind of people who would be there if we needed them. Regardless of time or place. They are those kind of people. I cherish them all so much and I am so thankful I get to join in and watch their sweet babies grow up. <br />
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With the birth of our newest little guy, I thought I would talk a little bit about each of these special little people.<br />
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N was born right before his mom and I become good friends. We knew each other through a mutual friend but it wasn't until later that we became close. Now, she is one of my best friends. In fact, N and his mom are the reason I started my photography business. I began photographing him at 18 months. He just turned 6. His is so handsome, super smart, a wickedly-good baseball player, and the sweetest guy ever. He still runs up to Hubs and I for big hugs. For a boy, that's a big deal. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj275jWdNtxNbHU9Y3Tc7nJrTwhlknwbee-MGbm9QOHa2Qk2aGxP7F6Cgrv36uY3h_EsC-hK0NHyGYPIyUJGPW2jXeXAEaRVo-H4PRqu-t4eZJbFrMFpdL1zKJ4hubiQjcivaDa71bfdA/s1600/ek.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj275jWdNtxNbHU9Y3Tc7nJrTwhlknwbee-MGbm9QOHa2Qk2aGxP7F6Cgrv36uY3h_EsC-hK0NHyGYPIyUJGPW2jXeXAEaRVo-H4PRqu-t4eZJbFrMFpdL1zKJ4hubiQjcivaDa71bfdA/s1600/ek.png" height="539" width="640" /></a></div>
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EK has a double first name. We often guess whether she will keep it or might drop to one name or the other as she gets older. But, we realized that more times than not, we simply call her EK. It's unique. Just like her. She is a ball of energy. Our favorite little diva princess. She's 4 going on 24. And I hope she never changes. It's probably a good thing both her dad and her Uncle Bob own shotguns. And she pretty much thinks her bud N hung the moon.<br />
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Baby C joined our group in November. Apparently she knew her mom's OCD number issue so while she was scheduled to be born on November 22, C decided to make us wait until the 23rd. We were not only surprised at her long-awaited arrival but then she decided to be born with red hair. Our little red headed, fair-skinned doll. N is her big brother and he LOVES his sister. I was so blessed to be there to photograph our entire journey. It was a day I will never forget. And as girly as her momma is going to make her, her dad is still an influence. She recently learned to spit. Sadly, it's the cutest thing I have ever seen.<br />
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And last but certainly not least...<br />
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Big Man L just arrived last week. He's a tax day baby. And he might just be one of the most beautiful babies I have ever seen (except for maybe N, EK, and C). I got to love on him at the hospital and again at his house. He is so laid back (at least when I am around). I can't wait to really see his big sister EK interact with him. I have a feeling she will be bossying him around before long. I can't wait to see him play with C the way their older siblings play together. <br />
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That's them. My babies. I do love them so. I wish them all lives full of love, laughter, and amazing friendships. I pray they are strong, compassionate people and that they follow their dreams. The world is a big place and I hope the four of them can cover as much of it as they want.<br />
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Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-78150907775082534422014-04-07T18:19:00.000-07:002014-04-07T18:19:06.198-07:00Awkward Moments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I thought it would be nice to scan all of my parents old family pictures. I am scanning them and will create discs so that we can preserve these memories forever. And boy did I find some memories. I have scanned maybe 40% of the pictures and I have found some major doozies. Awkward-city.</div>
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The teddy bear? Why??</div>
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Me. In a cowboy hat. On a donkey.</div>
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Apparently Santa and I were not hitting it off.</div>
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Easter - circa early 1990s. I'm the short one. I don't even know where to start. </div>
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White shoes? That dress! Oh lawd the hair!</div>
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Another Easter. This time - 1989. My purse matched my shoes. And please be jealous of those socks.</div>
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And last but certainly not least. Miss Awkward 7th Grade.</div>
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Band picture. Huge, gold-rimmed glasses. Boy haircut.</div>
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Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-26521771923922426762014-04-07T07:44:00.001-07:002014-04-07T07:44:09.620-07:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm back! It's been a while. I can't believe it is already April! We have some fun stuff happening in the next few weeks. One of my oldest friends is getting married on May 3rd and I'm in the wedding. Then we leave for a week at the beach for Hub's big 30th birthday. Very excited! Not to mention I have two huge photography events in June and another wedding! Busy times.<br />
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Recently we have been trying to control our grocery budget. For two people, we can sometimes spend entirely too much on groceries. And then we have a lot of waste too. We are trying to be more conscious about what we are purchasing and definitely taking advantage of things like leftovers!<br />
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Here is this week...<br />
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Saturday - Barbeque Chicken Legs and Turkey Smoked Sausage, grilled squash, rice, and garlic bread<br />
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Sunday - Skillet Hamburgers and fries (we were going to grill but thunderstorms kept us inside)<br />
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Monday - Cajun-seasoned, skillet-fried chicken with roasted potatoes and asparagus<br />
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Tuesday - <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/barbecue-jack-chicken">Grilled Chicken with Provolone Cheese</a>, Corn on the Cob, Mashed Potatoes, and garlic bread<br />
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Wednesday - Grilled Hot Dogs and Brats with fries<br />
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Thursday - Grocery Night!<br />
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For hundreds of <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/04/menu-plan-monday-april-714.html">menu ideas, visit Orgjunkie.com!</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-69488245102430123842014-03-17T07:33:00.000-07:002014-03-17T07:33:27.109-07:00New Shoes and New AttitudeRunning and I have had an interest relationship.<br />
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A year ago I fell in love with running. I did the Couch to 5K program with a friend (who was already a running pro). <br />
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About 7-9 months ago, running and I had a strained and frustrating relationship.<br />
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About 6 months ago, running and seperated. Not really intentionally but it happened.<br />
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I have been back running since late January but it just didn't feel right. Something was missing.<br />
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A big part of my running problems had to do with my feet. My shoes were not doing the job. Five minutes in and my legs were hurting up the side. Not muscular soreness - straight up pain. My shoes were not enough support at all.<br />
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Cut to this weekend - we went to watch our friend run a <a href="http://www.rumpshaker5k.com/">race</a>. It was a year ago at this particular race where I said "I will run this race next year." But I didn't. I stood and watched our friend get a new PR with something like a 24 minute 5k. I was so mad at myself for watching and not participating. <br />
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After the race, the Hubs and I went to a running store - <a href="http://www.fleetfeetbirmingham.com/">Fleet Feet</a> - and were professionally analyzed and fitted. I walked out of the store with a brand new pair of <a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/brooks-glycerin-11-womens-running-shoe/120137.html">Brooks Glycerin 11</a>. I was excited to break them in. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_6BN_eRQ_zTN97_Ve7u8PTyLf5sW9_z9HrrY9luC9oHIGiFf1oUShtZXsbdDEL8GrPhponaB3OLaqcytJ6FWccm-KxqZknp0Ad6QeXaKKn6TmP7Yno3fJUsDG-AKWi8TVnhLabQxess/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_6BN_eRQ_zTN97_Ve7u8PTyLf5sW9_z9HrrY9luC9oHIGiFf1oUShtZXsbdDEL8GrPhponaB3OLaqcytJ6FWccm-KxqZknp0Ad6QeXaKKn6TmP7Yno3fJUsDG-AKWi8TVnhLabQxess/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really love how much support these shoes have. They look bulky but they aren't at all.</td></tr>
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We finally got started running yesterday evening. And running and I made up. I fell in love again. I started the couch to 5k over - for multiple reasons. First, I wanted to break in my new shoes. Second, it had been a while since I did any real running so I needed to get the rest of my body back to it. It was so different than a year ago when the 1 minute runs were so taxing. I spent the entire minute and a half walking to catch my breath. By the end of the session, I was trying to push it harder and faster and my breathing was more strained. But, I did every second of it. I didn't cheat or stop too soon or anything like that. I ran when it said run and I walked when it said walk. And my feet? They felt great the entire time. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1rXdX1cbRleiUuHaE19xJogv2PoiATLh2OhetI2f_muCqlMwFMcl6qeCoinwPdTwHx5Ofp2ahTr7BDsZe8vKrK_BM_4QxW8q81GRz5Wc8VrRObv4kRkbP66cVMp0kbl9M3Mt6TKHgSU/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1rXdX1cbRleiUuHaE19xJogv2PoiATLh2OhetI2f_muCqlMwFMcl6qeCoinwPdTwHx5Ofp2ahTr7BDsZe8vKrK_BM_4QxW8q81GRz5Wc8VrRObv4kRkbP66cVMp0kbl9M3Mt6TKHgSU/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It started looking a little scary before we finished running. Gotta love Spring-time in the South!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm excited to go running tonight. I haven't felt excited in a while.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This post has been cross-posted on our group running blog, <a href="http://www.therunningnerds.blogspot.com/">The Running Nerds.</a><br />
<br />
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-13069897962116943492014-02-17T07:23:00.003-08:002014-02-17T07:27:41.972-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJs9KaW65imv8V_51mXfReYiAYzr1GfvI4wKrC31fe65BaSywYmD4TKS7rzJNTkBkp-i5U2DFndReURFBsWWHZQRu5YuWxCghHk74olYbuqDl4v3cjoWWaE8ssgTQ-30P0eMU0hcQRf4A/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJs9KaW65imv8V_51mXfReYiAYzr1GfvI4wKrC31fe65BaSywYmD4TKS7rzJNTkBkp-i5U2DFndReURFBsWWHZQRu5YuWxCghHk74olYbuqDl4v3cjoWWaE8ssgTQ-30P0eMU0hcQRf4A/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div>
It felt like Spring yesterday! I'm officially having spring fever! We purchased a new toy this weekend - a Jeep Wrangler! My husband is in love. Ha! So we enjoyed the nice weather yesterday by taking the top down and taking a drive. <br />
<br />
I started Weight Watchers on Friday at the recommendation of my endocrinologist to help re-jumpstart my weight loss. We had a "bad" dinner on Saturday night at one of our favorite restaurants but overall, it wasn't a bad food weekend. <br />
<br />
Here is our plan...<br />
<br />
Saturday - Out! Seafood. Fried. Lovely. Seafood. <br />
<br />
Sunday - Roasted Chicken in the crockpot, rosemary roasted potatoes, and asaparagus<br />
<br />
Monday - Chili (enough to freeze for later too!)<br />
<br />
Tuesday - Grilled Chicken, sweet potatoes, and cabbage<br />
<br />
Wednesday - Taco Salad <br />
<br />
Thursday - Spicy Skillet Chicken, roasted potatoes, and green beans<br />
<br />
Friday - Grocery night!<br />
<br />
For hundreds of menu ideas, visit<a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-1714.html"> Orgjunkie.com</a>!<br />
<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-2672413168525835192014-02-10T06:41:00.002-08:002014-02-10T06:41:25.881-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE5gupA8QYQ20X2T214iGRkaCf1NDGvAnFOupR5-JRKSzKyhFcX9zJak_X-8s550q-SjebcE2jeLOK3Wj2qJDILYqpyVCW8i6LJgXwfQadfeRqIYFzWcWdx4lQP7ALg7w3OikWzUvfBAk/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE5gupA8QYQ20X2T214iGRkaCf1NDGvAnFOupR5-JRKSzKyhFcX9zJak_X-8s550q-SjebcE2jeLOK3Wj2qJDILYqpyVCW8i6LJgXwfQadfeRqIYFzWcWdx4lQP7ALg7w3OikWzUvfBAk/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div>
We are expecting more winter weather this week. I'm so over winter. We spent Sunday afternoon at the park with friends and their kids. It was a wonderful day with beautiful weather and I'm craving spring! I don't want to go back to snow/ice. I guess we will see.<br />
<br />
Here is our menu this week...<br />
<br />
Saturday - Out with Friends<br />
<br />
Sunday - Hamburger Steaks, Mashed Potatoes, sauteed squash, and crescent rolls<br />
<br />
Monday - Chicken and Dumplins (maybe I will finally make this tonight!)<br />
<br />
Tuesday - Chicken Junk (my crazy skillet meal of chicken, squash, and zucchini served over whole wheat linguine)<br />
<br />
Wednesday - Red Beans and Rice with cornbread<br />
<br />
Thursday - Grocery Shopping Night! <br />
<br />
For hundreds of menu plans, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-1014.html">Menu Plan Monday at Orgjunkie.com.</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-4201675138939711832014-02-03T06:50:00.003-08:002014-02-03T06:50:59.038-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEief9ML9ZCpkjD5diWt2X42RUiR-nf1qtvG5QFy32VcktqrNUfvTy_jP_4TAqAWCbSuH7yADER_ZuadBEyVCFSbG1Xekt6IZkALBosNrkBasOxpf76d-WH2amLUKy_vwFL2sgDaQRlQjY4/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEief9ML9ZCpkjD5diWt2X42RUiR-nf1qtvG5QFy32VcktqrNUfvTy_jP_4TAqAWCbSuH7yADER_ZuadBEyVCFSbG1Xekt6IZkALBosNrkBasOxpf76d-WH2amLUKy_vwFL2sgDaQRlQjY4/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div>
Since the snowpocalype my state endured last week, I have been down with the plague. I plan to recount our experience but I ended up at home in bed for the last 4 days. I even let Hubs go grocery shopping for us! He did a pretty good job with the sad grocery list I emailed him.<br />
<br />
Here we go..<br />
<br />
Friday - Hubs picked up Little Caesar's Pizza<br />
<br />
Saturday - Hamburgers and fries<br />
<br />
Sunday - Homemade chicken fingers, mac & cheese, and baked beans<br />
<br />
Monday - Spaghetti<br />
<br />
Tuesday - Chicken and Dumplings (the easiest recipe ever - broth, cream of chicken soup, shredded chicken, and biscuit dough)<br />
<br />
Wednesday - Tacos (we are still addicted to the Taco Bell sauce at the grocery store)<br />
<br />
Thursday - Grocery shopping night!<br />
<br />
For hundreds of menu ideas, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-314.html">Orgjunkie.com!</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-54296252360620016332014-01-27T08:56:00.003-08:002014-01-27T08:56:47.835-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiizCr28Wmu3Ann4X5MuE_v8-HC6vhwRFWjiRWSrI6hlYh2GJk5RFtP-qCFROmofQfXsuJTvj_aHxZRP4IfwN_76QaoxEdKvOM57cfTLuNIl7RlCvw9YScKH46ZeoqkqHxX18pj0DF0SHA/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiizCr28Wmu3Ann4X5MuE_v8-HC6vhwRFWjiRWSrI6hlYh2GJk5RFtP-qCFROmofQfXsuJTvj_aHxZRP4IfwN_76QaoxEdKvOM57cfTLuNIl7RlCvw9YScKH46ZeoqkqHxX18pj0DF0SHA/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Another chilly week here in the South. I will say that we are definitely spoiled. It rarely gets below freezing but the past month has been full of extremely low temps. We are not prepared! Definitely looking forward to spring! <br />
<br />
We didn't exactly shop with a menu in mind this week. That is a huge no-no for me but we ended up creating a pretty good menu. Here is our week:<br />
<br />
Friday - Baked bbq chicken - both drumsticks and boneless tenderloins, <a href="http://americanfood.about.com/od/potatosidedishrecipes/r/Loaded_Mashed_Potato_Bake2.htm">loaded potato casserole</a>, and cream corn<br />
<br />
Saturday - Taco Salads - speaking of has anyone tried the new bottled Taco Bell sauce? OMG. I am addicted to mild sauce and now that I can get it at home, I want tacos at least once a week.<br />
<br />
Sunday - <a href="http://mommyworkingfortheweekend.blogspot.com/2011/02/chicken-casserole-recipe.html">Amanda's Chicken Casserole</a>, green beans, and crescent rolls<br />
<br />
Monday - Shredded BBQ Pork and fries (we are cheating and we bought one of those ready in minute bbq packs)<br />
<br />
Tuesday - <a href="http://www.frenchs.com/recipe/frenchs-crunchy-onion-chicken-RE1309">Onion Baked Chicken</a>, mac and cheese, and sauteed zucchini<br />
<br />
Wednesday - Easy Homemade Pizza - crust, sauce, pepperoni, cheese<br />
<br />
Thursday - Grocery shopping night! <br />
<br />
For hundreds of menu plan ideas, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-2714.html">Orgjunkie.com</a>!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-12645423234396513872014-01-26T13:16:00.004-08:002014-01-26T13:16:47.562-08:00I Ran Today!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKuUlZhSLfKHgoBun-cGsFS9CCvSP7-xDBO_YzDL3CiiXejkX42G92EoryX37MH9huGrMoUHpoyw8hVxXZEkQZBv2FBZV5hspCIOSbXgX-UDNX5fgARnq2CmMSr1ToipkCDt6bNRjgn8/s1600/blogger-image--1299104011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKuUlZhSLfKHgoBun-cGsFS9CCvSP7-xDBO_YzDL3CiiXejkX42G92EoryX37MH9huGrMoUHpoyw8hVxXZEkQZBv2FBZV5hspCIOSbXgX-UDNX5fgARnq2CmMSr1ToipkCDt6bNRjgn8/s1600/blogger-image--1299104011.jpg" /> </a></div>
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I ran today!<br />
<br />
I went to the park in the 35 degree weather and ran/walked 1.5 miles.
It was crazy windy but considering some people are snowed in right now, I
really couldn't complain.<br />
<br />
The amount of time I spent running wasn't exceptional and the total
mileage was really low but I did it. I got back to it. And it felt
good. At first, I had to force myself to walk. I was itching to run.<br />
<br />
When I stopped running in the summer, I hated it. I was done. But today I remembered why it is my favorite way to exercise. <br />
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-18522732683470191902014-01-21T12:10:00.000-08:002014-01-21T12:10:04.874-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZANOwm09UuPiuY7BeYGXABLHpUmRbg-tbM6RlLCW9lxx_5yrwD0aemrRuPcReu3NoGsZ2p6wkQ3kH4-SbxhNTovFchRgVpSRV_T5cy3hYlIf3v9LnPqba7qELogD95j1EJpL5PJXgxY/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZANOwm09UuPiuY7BeYGXABLHpUmRbg-tbM6RlLCW9lxx_5yrwD0aemrRuPcReu3NoGsZ2p6wkQ3kH4-SbxhNTovFchRgVpSRV_T5cy3hYlIf3v9LnPqba7qELogD95j1EJpL5PJXgxY/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I had a long weekend since the institution I work for observes Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Of course growing up and living in/near Birmingham, a historical battleground in the fight for civil rights, I have always been well-informed (or at least informed) on Dr. King but it wasn't until I took a history class in college did the importance of Birmingham and the players in the civil rights movement really and truly impact me. <br />
<br />
Maybe it was the difference between being a school kid and being an adult, but the stories and images told a different story than what I was taught in elementary and high school. My professor was a teenager in Birmingham during the 1960s so his first-person stories was event more beneficial to me. I did a massive research paper on the role of Birmingham's black churches in the movement. <br />
<br />
While Dr. King's leadership and non-violent beliefs played probably the most dominant role in the movement, his speeches were not just relevant then but now. With utmost respect but to completely simplify Dr. King - he wanted people to love each other. No matter if it was Birmingham in 1960 or 2014, we are to love one another not just despite our differences but because of our differences. <br />
<br />
Here are some of my favorite quotes about love by Dr. King.<br />
<br />
"<a href="http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/11327.html" title="Click for further information about this quotation">Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred
confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.</a> "
<br />
<br />
"<a href="http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/26954.html" title="Click for further information about this quotation">In the end, we will remember not the words of our
enemies, but the silence of our friends.</a>"<br />
<br />
"<a href="http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/37959.html" title="Click for further information about this quotation">Man must evolve for all human conflict a method which
rejects revenge, aggression and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is
love.</a> "<br />
<br />
So that's what we should do - love.<br />
<br />
And here is our menu plan for the week - <br />
<br />
Saturday - Spaghetti and garlic bread<br />
<br />
Sunday - Fried Pork Chops, Mac & Cheese, Pinto Beans, and Cornbread<br />
<br />
Monday - Crockpot Shredded BBQ Chicken, cole slaw, and home fries<br />
<br />
Tuesday - <a href="http://www.queenofmyuniverse.com/2012/12/cajun-chicken-pasta.html">Cajun Chicken Pasta</a><br />
<br />
Wednesday - <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2010/04/ultimate-chicken-fingers.html">Ultimate Chicken Fingers</a>, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans<br />
<br />
Thursday - Grocery Day!<br />
<br />
For hundreds of menu ideas, visit Orgjunkie.com's <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-2014.html">Menu Plan Monday.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-43586307767941046092014-01-13T06:53:00.000-08:002014-01-13T06:53:08.929-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghgtSHibE7TeA3Cc2mntRg2PJpqi3ybCMLgztPtJrKPi3McDBy8RLiopbr2K39zZnrXq7BSZsnTxnLIKOOsxGtV4dT-L_geQfEAEU7C67W5ni0VyMRnBgoVvm_qweRL8tlmmIqQRNxfks/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghgtSHibE7TeA3Cc2mntRg2PJpqi3ybCMLgztPtJrKPi3McDBy8RLiopbr2K39zZnrXq7BSZsnTxnLIKOOsxGtV4dT-L_geQfEAEU7C67W5ni0VyMRnBgoVvm_qweRL8tlmmIqQRNxfks/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div>
A new week. A different week. My family suffered a significant loss last week. That sounds so cold - significant loss. That doesn't even being to describe my sweet cousin and her life. I will get around to making a blog post about her but for now its all on the inside. <br />
<br />
Life goes on despite our loss. It's weird but it does. This week I planned for easy, comfort foods.<br />
<br />
Saturday - Chili<br />
<br />
Sunday - Vegetable Soup and cornbread<br />
<br />
Monday - Cajun Grilled Chicken Sandwiches and fries<br />
<br />
Tuesday - Homemade Pizza with pepperoni and hamburger meat<br />
<br />
Wednesday - <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2010/04/ultimate-chicken-fingers.html">Homemade Chicken Strips</a> with Mac & Cheese, Cabbage, and <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/red-lobster-cheddar-bay-biscuits-89684">Red Lobster Garlic Biscuits</a> <br />
<br />
Thursday - Tacos<br />
<br />
Friday - Out with Friends for Pizza<br />
<br />
For hundreds of meal ideas, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-1314.html">Orgjunkie.com's Menu Plan Monday!</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-34677508326956951772014-01-06T14:21:00.003-08:002014-01-06T14:21:36.263-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQqm5RhJqxFjn4zrEH9r-JaPb5eiBnXlnQXWxLbrp65qmfoRkwaEZ0fy1snoDKUil4pbqNrljUAwZsnETrv-Wrm_z8707S32ubRKtrihfps9ptPoWOci4mPEXs9Ax_MD5lnopm7EFyoxM/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQqm5RhJqxFjn4zrEH9r-JaPb5eiBnXlnQXWxLbrp65qmfoRkwaEZ0fy1snoDKUil4pbqNrljUAwZsnETrv-Wrm_z8707S32ubRKtrihfps9ptPoWOci4mPEXs9Ax_MD5lnopm7EFyoxM/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div>
<br />
A new year is here! No real resolutions this year but to slow down and enjoy life. I want to spend lots of time loving - people and moments. As I continue to watch (and experience) this slow motion roller coaster my family is on, I am taking it from it how important it is to show those around you how much you love them. <br />
<br />
Hubs and I sort of planned our menu on the fly and we definitely need to get more organized. We tend to buy things that we think of off the top of our head then we don't really want it when it comes around during our menu rotation.<br />
<br />
Saturday - Out with Friends<br />
<br />
Sunday - <a href="http://www.thetaylor-house.com/chicken-noodle-casserole-perfect-comfort-food/">Chicken Noodle Casserole</a> with Sister Shubert Rolls<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.forkfulofcomfort.com/2012/03/sausage-potatoes.html?m=1">Sausage and Potato Skillet</a> with cabbage and macaroni and cheese<br />
<br />
Tuesday - Chicken Quesadillas with <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/01/restaurant-style-salsa/">homemade salsa</a><br />
<br />
Wednesday - Hamburger Steaks, mashed potatoes, okra, and yeast rolls<br />
<br />
Thursday - <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/01/restaurant-style-salsa/">Chinese Chicken Salad</a>, Fried Rice, and Eggrolls<br />
<br />
Friday - Frozen Pizza (and grocery shopping night!)<br />
<br />
For hundreds of menu ideas, visit Orgjunkie.com's <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2014/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-614.html">Menu Plan Monday</a>!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-76961755780491681712014-01-05T15:37:00.000-08:002014-01-05T16:39:49.661-08:00Year in Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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2013 as came to a close and I have my toes in 2014. 2013 was a huge year for me. It was a year of growth, completion, new challenges, loss, and happy memories. I am beyond blessed. I have decided it was a year of love.<br />
<br />
I devoted the first 4 months of the year to completing my degree. I have worked hard for several years towards a bachelor's degree in sociology. I fully intended to continue my career in fundraising/donor relations but I needed my degree to move forward. I graduated on May 11th. My family and close friends came out to watch me graduate. I was so proud to have them all there cheering me on. Afterwards my parents threw me a lunch. I don't think we took any pictures but I thoroughly enjoyed my big day.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHPcMMPFsKRYZQct3dHpUe8J5hyphenhyphenmugxUcdm-X2Dnmw_cvhSOAQzFn4LKDcApXfppto9UcsJoQ4HW7553cO01pKQExe6mgNiy5LUi8KHMwjkRfYJhOKNhL9ZE5LeSe3uBbRzwddZIpQKk/s1600/215315_10100369525440056_1738107181_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHPcMMPFsKRYZQct3dHpUe8J5hyphenhyphenmugxUcdm-X2Dnmw_cvhSOAQzFn4LKDcApXfppto9UcsJoQ4HW7553cO01pKQExe6mgNiy5LUi8KHMwjkRfYJhOKNhL9ZE5LeSe3uBbRzwddZIpQKk/s1600/215315_10100369525440056_1738107181_n.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and a sweet co-worker. This was probably the best picture of the day.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1antj-kJqgW0BEIApZJ17UMPO8Hr6vmIzy-Yn4Y-EQo8WMQZ3xkaa-MQ8b_WGif3waR5RJWp5deeH13N1ZUYzeuiJqya6Rc7x6kSKpZMa6dZIh556gZObWJa696XyaXcmpREYWbI53c/s1600/1010912_10100413233473806_1681010698_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1antj-kJqgW0BEIApZJ17UMPO8Hr6vmIzy-Yn4Y-EQo8WMQZ3xkaa-MQ8b_WGif3waR5RJWp5deeH13N1ZUYzeuiJqya6Rc7x6kSKpZMa6dZIh556gZObWJa696XyaXcmpREYWbI53c/s1600/1010912_10100413233473806_1681010698_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's official!</td></tr>
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While working hard toward my degree, Bobby and I also started a running regime with out best friends. The week after graduation was our first 5k. It wasn't easy but I did it. As I made the turn down toward the finish line, I was so proud of myself. It wasn't the time that mattered, it was that I committed to something and finished. Lately I have taken a break from running but plan to get back on board and see what else I can accomplish this year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpXuak9FOoYI40N6jLTAcpexEiOO5xRMgqKYfvU0loqFPerNg25pMEacg2IC0MncBrzYZwZhD8T2FG42j8bmdknatkY8Kx4sqa-05v95-9yUkc-NxQgD5htkF0ztGZyN9QIE-Zj2m7oc/s1600/579383_10100375973852386_1263267188_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpXuak9FOoYI40N6jLTAcpexEiOO5xRMgqKYfvU0loqFPerNg25pMEacg2IC0MncBrzYZwZhD8T2FG42j8bmdknatkY8Kx4sqa-05v95-9yUkc-NxQgD5htkF0ztGZyN9QIE-Zj2m7oc/s1600/579383_10100375973852386_1263267188_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweaty and blurry. But proof!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-D9FItyMxh-DpAxRjiSUS9t15dNANvjNVSf4aieSNKO4pErB8Oqy2LYS8RFU93W86K3HNipzuazF6-Rzjr24EdDxbIPnpqEoxvHDSVgFNXhIKedGmX7xsPK7hjDs55znM1KEnpVqrgQ/s1600/941758_10151470923102333_1014184547_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-D9FItyMxh-DpAxRjiSUS9t15dNANvjNVSf4aieSNKO4pErB8Oqy2LYS8RFU93W86K3HNipzuazF6-Rzjr24EdDxbIPnpqEoxvHDSVgFNXhIKedGmX7xsPK7hjDs55znM1KEnpVqrgQ/s1600/941758_10151470923102333_1014184547_n.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So proud of my hubs!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBRpKkIBReaw62POoLcJ7Uf9MdEEsoP9o0vpN7bGFfqN5-r42rIGv2xQ9pWV9U24tPF844CylxsuuOXSMuEQIhx61r6SZhc5DxYuBFKgdqlWeJkYM1n4uBhijD0hhK99LnqmGx187TL4/s1600/IMG_6913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBRpKkIBReaw62POoLcJ7Uf9MdEEsoP9o0vpN7bGFfqN5-r42rIGv2xQ9pWV9U24tPF844CylxsuuOXSMuEQIhx61r6SZhc5DxYuBFKgdqlWeJkYM1n4uBhijD0hhK99LnqmGx187TL4/s1600/IMG_6913.JPG" height="640" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our best friends and running partners/cheerleaders/coaches.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I think most of our year was really devoted to spending lots of time with our friends and family. I love being with our friends and their kids. I got lots of "Aunt Mel" time in.<br />
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October had some seriously sad moments. We watched our friends mourn the loss of one of their very close friends. I did a post about <a href="http://www.queenofmyuniverse.com/2013/10/the-dash.html">Coach</a>. Towards the end of the month, my great-aunt Carolyn also passed away somewhat unexpectedly. She was one of my grandmother's younger sisters. <br />
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Also in October, I organized a team and participated in the Susan G. Komen Walk for the Cure. I did this in honor of my sweet co-worker Sheri who was diagnosed in May. She has been a true hero this year. She has taken ever moment of this journey with grace and strength beyond comprehensive. I was so proud to have her join us on race day.<br />
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November brought a huge family reunion. While it was sad not having my Aunt Carolyn there to celebrate, we enjoyed getting our huge family together.<br />
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Also in November, I was there as my best friend, Amanda, gave birth to her sweet baby girl, Caroline. I was so lucky to spend the day(s) at the hospital as we waited for C. She made her arrival around 7:30 p.m. on November 23rd.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me holding Caroline who is getting some love from her big brother.</td></tr>
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In December, my dad's family got together. I seriously love this group of people.<br />
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As December came to a close, I looked back on my year. We are lucky people - blessed more than we deserve. <br />
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Another monumental moment came on December 29th when my cousin Kim suffered a brain aneurysm at age 46. The last seven days have been a roller coaster for her family/our family. I spent the first day of 2014 with my parents, uncles, aunts, cousins, my brother, and my husband. Someone brought a New Year's feast to the hospital and we had our lucky peas in honor of Kim.<br />
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While we don't know what lays ahead, I know who does. I trust that God knows best. He has Kim and our entire family covered with His love and grace.<br />
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While this is a sad ending to 2013, it makes me see what we should see everyday - love. This strong woman and the family that loves her so. It's all about love. The family that gathers together just to comfort each other. We are quite a force when we are together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefdoZMVVPuXOjmMPVXwvAb0uGWgITdmvsf9u7wIm9QL8iJ9hu18NZ56cbJ4ymEG0KFzqq7R3aS2N-VklPrJ1a_jigP62ia6Gy4t1hqrPDguY7KdW_8bhWuPDl8dks7rqo2R9n1s1q-JM/s1600/1477828_10100583584209566_996472012_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefdoZMVVPuXOjmMPVXwvAb0uGWgITdmvsf9u7wIm9QL8iJ9hu18NZ56cbJ4ymEG0KFzqq7R3aS2N-VklPrJ1a_jigP62ia6Gy4t1hqrPDguY7KdW_8bhWuPDl8dks7rqo2R9n1s1q-JM/s1600/1477828_10100583584209566_996472012_n.jpg" height="430" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cousin Tiffany, my dad, and my cousin Kim (also Tiff's mom) at our annual Christmas party.</td></tr>
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So for 2014, I wish for more love. Everyday should be treated as if we won't see tomorrow.<br />
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Just love. Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-53658154785870809112013-11-18T11:15:00.000-08:002013-11-18T11:15:35.893-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HuRW802qDgvtqE2FP3o7ksjcxHoivZIAJF_x4F0nOKv7yWOXge4mErFr5wUhw33ZOtMlqq5vL51QfYNRuRxkKNmwq9eOhTpysBx9vYS1Wvbrah3UvW6KKO2BN00NTCBjB-y1tbrhtZE/s1600/mealplanmonday_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HuRW802qDgvtqE2FP3o7ksjcxHoivZIAJF_x4F0nOKv7yWOXge4mErFr5wUhw33ZOtMlqq5vL51QfYNRuRxkKNmwq9eOhTpysBx9vYS1Wvbrah3UvW6KKO2BN00NTCBjB-y1tbrhtZE/s1600/mealplanmonday_v1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Last week I sort of grocery-shopped on the fly. I didn't make all good decisions but a second trip back did ensure I bought some healthy salads for lunches! Also this week's plan could go a little crazy because my best friend is due at any moment with their second precious baby - a girl! So we are on pins and needles waiting for baby girl's big day!<br />
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Friday night - Pork Chops, Cabbage, Potatoes, and Cornbread<br />
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Saturday - Football Saturday! Roll Tide! Chicken and Dumplins<br />
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Sunday - Leftovers from Friday night<br />
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Monday - Chicken Quesadillas and Refried Beans<br />
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Tuesday - Hamburger Steaks with mashed potatoes and green beans<br />
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Wednesday - <a href="http://www.queenofmyuniverse.com/2013/10/our-german-experiment.html">German Brats and Sauerkraut</a><br />
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Thursday - Grocery night so something easy!<br />
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For hundreds of menu plans, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/11/menu-plan-monday-nov-1813.html">Orgjunkie.com!</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7896850147016286080.post-51542977829468695932013-11-11T08:21:00.002-08:002013-11-11T08:21:47.447-08:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhX3H_nTmF_wcTPOg5YQkbNEGA1OYoHJBs0Ny6g8NTJeEM3_m98J1Hva0x6bpMZGQTR1RB8lzR7reg3APM04Ic59Xs5BQbI2LH5BCeiI_P89ji9ShIi8R4wyPCY4HMk2FFicYCVMdgtY/s1600/mealplanmonday_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhX3H_nTmF_wcTPOg5YQkbNEGA1OYoHJBs0Ny6g8NTJeEM3_m98J1Hva0x6bpMZGQTR1RB8lzR7reg3APM04Ic59Xs5BQbI2LH5BCeiI_P89ji9ShIi8R4wyPCY4HMk2FFicYCVMdgtY/s1600/mealplanmonday_v1.jpg" /></a></div>
It's a new week and I started this one completely exhausted! We had a family reunion this past weekend that was a lot of fun and really took it out of me! But it's so worth it! This week I went for easy. I know easy doesn't always mean healthy but we tried to combine the two the best we could.<br />
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Saturday - Family Reunion Day! I took <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/sausage-balls-recipe/index.html">sausage balls</a> and iced brownies.<br />
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Sunday - Vegetable Soup and cornbread<br />
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Monday - Cheeseburger Casserole (I need to post recipe. Super easy meal) and Baked Potatoes<br />
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Tuesday - <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2011/07/spicy-chicken-fingers.html">Homemade Chicken Tenders</a> with mashed potatoes and green beans<br />
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Wednesday - <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2011/07/spicy-chicken-fingers.html">Bubble Up Chicken</a> (from last week that we didn't make)<br />
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Thursday - Hamburger Steaks with mac and cheese and green beans<br />
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Friday - Grocery Shopping!!<br />
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For hundreds of menu ideas, visit orgjunkie.com's <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/11/menu-plan-monday-nov-1113.html">Menu Plan Monday.</a>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03828431173077627778noreply@blogger.com0