tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58582802712176095162024-03-05T09:00:35.453-05:00MelandboysMelanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.comBlogger638125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-25983697984531087002016-03-14T14:00:00.000-04:002016-03-14T14:06:47.817-04:00Weekly Menu <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0xDVxgqs57X5bYpJQreBpTlpbC5FwLsXfl23Lf4snGo2EhmbOtjFHsALQ0eKOlWofVZRpYIAtbcaZLGtAQ99ZX7hSpgr5NncQZv2mcvdEzsXth0SbREQrlDfDgzrDfmciYMC3UIInOg/s1600/IMG_2930_1-300x199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0xDVxgqs57X5bYpJQreBpTlpbC5FwLsXfl23Lf4snGo2EhmbOtjFHsALQ0eKOlWofVZRpYIAtbcaZLGtAQ99ZX7hSpgr5NncQZv2mcvdEzsXth0SbREQrlDfDgzrDfmciYMC3UIInOg/s640/IMG_2930_1-300x199.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Did you know it is National Pi Day?</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I will be adding pie to menu tonight:)</span></div>
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(I linked to the recipes on the Sisters Cafe when possible)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Monday:</u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-zj0_xHCKf8VS3P2XRbulIHmqXpTTLZko6nG3key-1fuoLu9wj5zdOcYg8ugfW8UCrSCh4-WefUGcUGsEhq1xmcqOEwpfO_9k0lljztGY3ID7YIvBrJ3CMGHjsF6io-B0ixKlg7j94c/s1600/tuscam-2-e1344885181785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-zj0_xHCKf8VS3P2XRbulIHmqXpTTLZko6nG3key-1fuoLu9wj5zdOcYg8ugfW8UCrSCh4-WefUGcUGsEhq1xmcqOEwpfO_9k0lljztGY3ID7YIvBrJ3CMGHjsF6io-B0ixKlg7j94c/s320/tuscam-2-e1344885181785.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/2009/03/tuscan-lentil-soup" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Tuscan Lentil Soup</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fresh Sourdough Bread (recipe and directions coming soon)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/2016/03/pi-day-hooray" target="_blank">Pie for dessert,</a> of course!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Tuesday:</u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0eaP2L8rHHHVdkgJgee9peO7Bp3kFe8nAfPOA04kN4S05K-YNDDCadICZ_Q2ijYP4gmbofhpzOFScguUo7GchGQWfV-bWQd50wxIzlGtDlpEyn2lvSMAjrNCevvZvoCZQMJaSMDIGh4/s1600/Sisters+Cafe+Crispy+Southwest+Wraps+Watermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0eaP2L8rHHHVdkgJgee9peO7Bp3kFe8nAfPOA04kN4S05K-YNDDCadICZ_Q2ijYP4gmbofhpzOFScguUo7GchGQWfV-bWQd50wxIzlGtDlpEyn2lvSMAjrNCevvZvoCZQMJaSMDIGh4/s320/Sisters+Cafe+Crispy+Southwest+Wraps+Watermark.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/2009/10/crispy-southwest-wraps-vegetarian" target="_blank">Southwest Wraps</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Orange slices</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Wednesday:</u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2gwMqOCXbGwqRlqT-J-XIdlClR2k7aUphJZeG0gabH554afZVOyXxa0wI3nMDgOLY0FXhOzK8v0pxE2ogXtxXLruO1eG_Ch0UjQ160yvqP6BorgbPN3UV8arEsIMpr7_H4Re7xHoHsVo/s1600/20141116_134333-e1416493661542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2gwMqOCXbGwqRlqT-J-XIdlClR2k7aUphJZeG0gabH554afZVOyXxa0wI3nMDgOLY0FXhOzK8v0pxE2ogXtxXLruO1eG_Ch0UjQ160yvqP6BorgbPN3UV8arEsIMpr7_H4Re7xHoHsVo/s320/20141116_134333-e1416493661542.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chicken <a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/2014/11/chicken-terriyaki" target="_blank">Terriyaki</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Green Salad</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Thursday:</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pad Thai(coming soon to Sisters Cafe)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Applesauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Friday:</u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGwHBrYZN07ZrHE3ERs1uT46zdiRoBFu1lD-OgS-oVVRCxrelQ3jdaLzVVmWelEfscBc__GLYXM0k-WAV6Z6BufzOVpf0sSdHkSF1lfEB3VLx4DCEZ4iKDr8lET7LUfwIDzwkH-Azd2A/s1600/Sisters+Cafe+Pizza+Rollups+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGwHBrYZN07ZrHE3ERs1uT46zdiRoBFu1lD-OgS-oVVRCxrelQ3jdaLzVVmWelEfscBc__GLYXM0k-WAV6Z6BufzOVpf0sSdHkSF1lfEB3VLx4DCEZ4iKDr8lET7LUfwIDzwkH-Azd2A/s320/Sisters+Cafe+Pizza+Rollups+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/2010/05/pizza-rolls-2" target="_blank">Pizza Rolls</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Massaged Kale Salad (coming soon to Sisters Cafe)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Saturday:</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Date night/ leftovers for boys</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Sunday:</u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCY20CGcqi6ZPeI0VhcNRMpl7YxhYi_1ocTIpeJ3LIpOuokbeHN1xDl20cxkW9oIr8HT1YNEa_elwlJTGnMQn8mzX0sJa30YsXXPO2r-7HLi3BYIonTbkvqRtYvJtqU44qShaxQ9iKzE/s1600/036-e1346073751333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCY20CGcqi6ZPeI0VhcNRMpl7YxhYi_1ocTIpeJ3LIpOuokbeHN1xDl20cxkW9oIr8HT1YNEa_elwlJTGnMQn8mzX0sJa30YsXXPO2r-7HLi3BYIonTbkvqRtYvJtqU44qShaxQ9iKzE/s320/036-e1346073751333.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/2012/08/waffles-insane-greatness" target="_blank">Waffles of Insane Greatness</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Eggs</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/?s=green+smoothie" target="_blank">Green Smoothies</a></span></div>
Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-87323588583967246522016-03-12T00:29:00.000-05:002016-03-12T00:29:09.843-05:00New Beginnings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51ZYbCdqglUp9dcIllUi_e1MtaTJODWKaRySY0bvaRAYWkUID4VbHGd9PtqvHkbiVW78_L9mjYnWGEmLO1YUd1FWCAvnqxR9drlykWFyUYeMxVjXhGW3BYbVXR04FfC4KAcvFDoZ6XOc/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51ZYbCdqglUp9dcIllUi_e1MtaTJODWKaRySY0bvaRAYWkUID4VbHGd9PtqvHkbiVW78_L9mjYnWGEmLO1YUd1FWCAvnqxR9drlykWFyUYeMxVjXhGW3BYbVXR04FfC4KAcvFDoZ6XOc/s640/IMG_0179.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Weekend my dears!</span></b></div>
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Here in Tennessee Spring has come and I couldn't be happier about it! It is sunny and bright this weekend and the tulip bulbs my boys and I planted last fall are starting to pop up! I am seriously hoping all our hard work turns into a beautiful display and not a haphazard mess! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZY6MWpWZyG5rFm-yKIyzVZEWKUeRCHv7N1fztcXyEWfU7WCbNgR1KDmxqM6dyg7svqVGXjErUTPtzOQjQxhUiIwK_utAbMmJSCJK_hak4rs0ZEMnPT5vzWbnc5BoPORrCdREhp_W6egY/s1600/20151006_190229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZY6MWpWZyG5rFm-yKIyzVZEWKUeRCHv7N1fztcXyEWfU7WCbNgR1KDmxqM6dyg7svqVGXjErUTPtzOQjQxhUiIwK_utAbMmJSCJK_hak4rs0ZEMnPT5vzWbnc5BoPORrCdREhp_W6egY/s640/20151006_190229.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Last October)</span></div>
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I got a little carried away late one night and ordered <i><b>250 bulbs</b></i>. Yeah, I am not sure what I was thinking?!! I really questioned my good judgment when it came time to plant them all! Sheesh that was A LOT of work! I am crossing my fingers it looks pretty this Spring and not ridiculous:) We shall see soon enough!</div>
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I know I have said it before, so I understand if you don't believe me but I really do want to turn over a new leaf when it come to blogging here and my recipe website <a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/" target="_blank">The Sisters Cafe</a>. I really do miss it! I have all these ideas of happy things I want to share and I really want to keep a little record here of my darling/ crazy boys who are growing up so fast! And, I need to record all the adventures my oldest son is having on his mission for our <a href="http://www.mormon.org/" target="_blank">church</a>. Elder Christensen is currently in Daphne, Alabama and is happily serving with all his heart which fills me with so much happiness! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVS5PkiGNzCcM2U0L2jIHkBSUWu5JyIooJokZMDvOIcJAAc-LbEkJ1-YG8xPOeZ4GfBtprLdTRANCdeLWVWEH5MB8HdJcjIcZmDRUJDmtUJTbxNpS1do5ho4LhZjWeJj0UFHbr2gy2N40/s1600/IMG_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVS5PkiGNzCcM2U0L2jIHkBSUWu5JyIooJokZMDvOIcJAAc-LbEkJ1-YG8xPOeZ4GfBtprLdTRANCdeLWVWEH5MB8HdJcjIcZmDRUJDmtUJTbxNpS1do5ho4LhZjWeJj0UFHbr2gy2N40/s640/IMG_0110.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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(Search and Rescue)</div>
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He likes to send me goofy shots like the one above whenever I beg for pictures (he doesn't send many). It is truly a JOY to watch my son grow in his love of God and desire to serve Him and his fellow men. </div>
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The rest of my crew is doing well and keeping Brad and I on our toes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihk2vyawbTcgnVlQXaTa4rPDGcrYHln_C_B1jK2Ctps9IpGjnYOtvH-vkeJIcI2E-mV24-lj6byBr1vTpSk0OCQkoYSe-2cdziJtqN_Kx06vbZUA1g3w5qRCGNAjtIAi-mfLbNS5_z4s/s1600/IMG_0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihk2vyawbTcgnVlQXaTa4rPDGcrYHln_C_B1jK2Ctps9IpGjnYOtvH-vkeJIcI2E-mV24-lj6byBr1vTpSk0OCQkoYSe-2cdziJtqN_Kx06vbZUA1g3w5qRCGNAjtIAi-mfLbNS5_z4s/s400/IMG_0131.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I hope you are all doing well to! I have missed all my sweet blog friends!</div>
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xoxoxoxoxoxo</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-75436607632817133132015-11-09T11:08:00.000-05:002015-11-09T11:08:13.591-05:00Weekly Menu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VFQHJqzYkYtCKprHfCpZkEuZeTZI9aaaxvs7lOuprqodADYnW09K6XIXOS47v1ZMA5TWbHup_jyx0Nzsp_fEnJzswMYqOyAr2IbkhqMRs26NHiJ0-v4MRy71hVhVzp5MVRFX-0HwDGA/s1600/lumberjack+chili.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VFQHJqzYkYtCKprHfCpZkEuZeTZI9aaaxvs7lOuprqodADYnW09K6XIXOS47v1ZMA5TWbHup_jyx0Nzsp_fEnJzswMYqOyAr2IbkhqMRs26NHiJ0-v4MRy71hVhVzp5MVRFX-0HwDGA/s400/lumberjack+chili.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Happy Monday! Last week my friend flew in from Utah. She had never been to the South and I had SO much fun showing her around. I will have to a do a highlight post of all our fun. It was a fun week! How was yours? Well the weather has finally turned cold here. I am more than ready for soup weather:) Yum!</div>
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*recipes found here on The Sisters Café</div>
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<strong><u>Monday:</u></strong> </div>
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Lumberjack Chili*, cornbread*, sliced apples</div>
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Family Home Evening Treat: Gingersnaps*</div>
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<strong><u>Tuesday:</u></strong></div>
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Green Curry Chicken*, Naan* (I have a recipe but I am using the ones from Costo this time), steamed broccoli</div>
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<strong><u>Wednesday:</u></strong></div>
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Crispy Southwest Wraps, Guacamole*. baby carrots and sliced cucumbers, mandarin oranges</div>
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<strong><u>Thursday:</u></strong></div>
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Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, Garlic Bread, sauted zuchinni, green salad</div>
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<strong><u>Friday:</u></strong></div>
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Home made Pizza night</div>
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<strong><u>Saturday:</u></strong></div>
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Dinner downtown my Mom:) </div>
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She is flying in to stay with our boys while we go to Hawaii the following week.</div>
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<strong><u>Sunday:</u></strong></div>
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Pork Chops*, mashed potatoes*, spinach salad*</div>
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Apple Crisp with vanilla bean ice cream</div>
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Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-63163701259083870742015-10-28T09:14:00.000-04:002015-10-28T09:15:29.926-04:00Boy Weekend all the Way!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We celebrated Bridger's Birthday with pizza and the movie Goosebumps. I was a little worried about it being too scary, but the boys all swore they were not that scared! Tough guys!! Although Cannon admited at bedtime that parts were a little "freaky". No bad dreams, luckily:)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdXMTnZdT30p6nKKjF53fDdkP4VGGnDmVXoJebh_RZp_GxnYmiVuR6rDikEeSXhRju8snonxDjv6A44PKM-DKrhWGyszztMuvNflwvbHy8DtQIoKHEUwkxc93zVtRV3CB8Sw7x6LXwEc/s1600/20151024_154942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdXMTnZdT30p6nKKjF53fDdkP4VGGnDmVXoJebh_RZp_GxnYmiVuR6rDikEeSXhRju8snonxDjv6A44PKM-DKrhWGyszztMuvNflwvbHy8DtQIoKHEUwkxc93zVtRV3CB8Sw7x6LXwEc/s640/20151024_154942.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I ended up with a couple of extra guys for my date night! Our family babysitters were both busy---it can be a little tricky sometimes with teenagers! They have very important social lives to work around, you know?!</div>
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We went to our favorite pizza place Lupis and I must say I felt pretty lucky to have 3 handsome dates! Brad treat the boys to soda (so exciting). It was self serve and they had way too much fun mixing drink flavors. Powerade with rootbeer, anyone? YUK!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRcrJRe7WZBbbmD7huzULNBbOhPzW1X-dRckwhJbLELJY2rK3qzI4HSxKjc3-WCgsGBzE_6l3umMb0onoitSEFClqeZz4r6fhK8WMg0Joivl7bXh-9MNhlg3c20gcfTr2xHF0mMZQgSQ/s1600/IMG_20151023_212606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRcrJRe7WZBbbmD7huzULNBbOhPzW1X-dRckwhJbLELJY2rK3qzI4HSxKjc3-WCgsGBzE_6l3umMb0onoitSEFClqeZz4r6fhK8WMg0Joivl7bXh-9MNhlg3c20gcfTr2xHF0mMZQgSQ/s640/IMG_20151023_212606.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My little boys!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cIoQp3a_XHChQC-WDWVB8Kket-swqSQw9AHyqDIvcKJRfGsRzdfqs7Mmh5JRP-EdBWIi9ifLnQkODf2X2HudTr8QMcHS8oxcc6ZuwL5XHbaEN4dG6B-VHei7k17sItCnLxxRKrnF0gI/s1600/20151023_190320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cIoQp3a_XHChQC-WDWVB8Kket-swqSQw9AHyqDIvcKJRfGsRzdfqs7Mmh5JRP-EdBWIi9ifLnQkODf2X2HudTr8QMcHS8oxcc6ZuwL5XHbaEN4dG6B-VHei7k17sItCnLxxRKrnF0gI/s640/20151023_190320.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love them so much.</div>
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I think having a son grown up and out of the house has made me especially tenderhearted about this younger years. I now know how quickly little boys grow up. </div>
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I definitely think this works in their favor, especially EVERY night when they want me to come up to tuck them in and "scrackle" (scratch/tickle) their backs.:) </div>
Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-87484712924550414772015-10-26T14:04:00.004-04:002015-10-26T14:12:07.930-04:00This Weeks Dinner Menu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaUO2xypem0kkKHWbLRdEpTKJH_-L8u897-uyjVpPRO6GayPi4Z883Ng0nsNfTPamwSeyOgKl-J8I_e9XSDBx_pDJ4pQd3dLGu9FWUsVM_cXfudc8abiaoIbOjXRNiUtt1TIpSfDKJSc/s1600/0061-e1320067344121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaUO2xypem0kkKHWbLRdEpTKJH_-L8u897-uyjVpPRO6GayPi4Z883Ng0nsNfTPamwSeyOgKl-J8I_e9XSDBx_pDJ4pQd3dLGu9FWUsVM_cXfudc8abiaoIbOjXRNiUtt1TIpSfDKJSc/s640/0061-e1320067344121.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong> Happy Halloween Week</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Recipes can be found here at <a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/">The Sisters Café</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Monday</strong></span> </div>
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Spaghetti and Turkey Meatballs (recipe coming on Sisters Café soon)</div>
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with Quinoa pasta and Zoodles (zucchini noodles)</div>
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Salad with Buttermilk dressing (Have you tried this --its so good )</div>
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Caramel Apples for Family Home Evening treat</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Tuesday</span></strong></div>
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Creamy Chicken Chowder from freezer and</div>
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Grilled Cheese Paninis, mandarin segments</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Wednesday</span></strong></div>
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Taco Night with all the fixings:) </div>
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fresh sliced pears</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Thursday</span></strong></div>
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Brad's Birthday Dinner--yet to be determined by the birthday boy</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Friday</strong></span> </div>
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White Chicken Chili</div>
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Buttermilk Cornbread and Homemade Rootbeer</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Saturday</span></strong></div>
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Date Night--pizza for the boys!</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Sunday</span></strong> </div>
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Pot Roast, mashed potatoes, rolls, Salad and broccoli</div>
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Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-66614304740286575012015-10-22T11:57:00.002-04:002015-10-22T12:00:26.746-04:00Sick Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlsVGWvwgSSEDwYMqjdLDtK2RgwMJ9G54eZDooPUsjqM6-5Vo6xDY4YVAftwzL5J1Uzk7eqN9NeUABlwXBPzMhV5cuZzNR1O0ollv5_RfypPFA-ZX_AEanzpSL80PsHfakaf8MCW770o/s1600/IMG_20151021_083818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlsVGWvwgSSEDwYMqjdLDtK2RgwMJ9G54eZDooPUsjqM6-5Vo6xDY4YVAftwzL5J1Uzk7eqN9NeUABlwXBPzMhV5cuZzNR1O0ollv5_RfypPFA-ZX_AEanzpSL80PsHfakaf8MCW770o/s640/IMG_20151021_083818.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cannon woke up with croop yesterday and spent the day with me. </div>
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I don't think he was too sad about it! Haha!</div>
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I think I have trained this little guy well--if he sees Mom with her camera, he plasters on a big grin! He actually really did not feel good but you couldn't tell that from this picture! </div>
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I made him some of this <a href="http://www.thesisterscafe.com/2009/12/moms-soothing-drink-for-a-sore-throat-2">soothing lemon honey drink</a> that my Mom made me when I was little and didn't feel good. I love it. My boys don't really love it but I think they feel happy that I make it for them anyway:) I honestly do think it helps!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStYNnR0e9vMftgksBKJTwBqjyKgNSTs4Yi_X81QYgxpCSmzZ9JvMWQ3qbjCa4ANyYh1HqbPrKg7srJgNJ2FAZb9P8DjPrCrpn_wEeYle8N4p6Jjp8OXsauHvqZ5PXzQRfPZh51SLTTgU/s1600/Dec+2009+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStYNnR0e9vMftgksBKJTwBqjyKgNSTs4Yi_X81QYgxpCSmzZ9JvMWQ3qbjCa4ANyYh1HqbPrKg7srJgNJ2FAZb9P8DjPrCrpn_wEeYle8N4p6Jjp8OXsauHvqZ5PXzQRfPZh51SLTTgU/s320/Dec+2009+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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In fact, I have read so much about the awesome health benefits of lemon that I have been drinking a warm cup of water with the juice of a lemon in it first thing every morning. This is an interesting <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2014/03/17/lemon-water-benefits_n_4980265.html">article from the Huffington Post</a> about the benefits of Lemon Water.<br />
What do you think?</div>
Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-34433027068841087792015-10-21T22:46:00.001-04:002015-10-22T10:58:17.594-04:00Double Digits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-KGENzWqXYuuWzfnWsXCLwAcf0nccgVnqQdXX3w3aETo3dDuScYuxCx8ZUJVYpp7Q0yZBj4ovbOEiQA6hN1BfexHCRTbh0o53dMQ8DFucHfM5iHMqh6O3oz3iSsG8rTCozqCJeqqjeY/s1600/20151019_192606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-KGENzWqXYuuWzfnWsXCLwAcf0nccgVnqQdXX3w3aETo3dDuScYuxCx8ZUJVYpp7Q0yZBj4ovbOEiQA6hN1BfexHCRTbh0o53dMQ8DFucHfM5iHMqh6O3oz3iSsG8rTCozqCJeqqjeY/s640/20151019_192606.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This darling boy turned 10 </span>on Monday! I still can hardly believe it?! </div>
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He requested donuts instead of a cake and I was happy to do it:) </div>
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Easiest birthday cake I have ever "made"!</div>
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Bridger McKay was my biggest baby--weighing in at almost 10 pounds! He had the cutest roundest bald head! This little butter ball was so happy and cuddly we have all just adored him since day 1!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9o3aRHraY6RZJ870wY18dy_9hZ05QTC-hBytsLBCiL-KNIjEPyICFsqKYV788WSM2zMx_vagCAbsQ8zGqfj4kii1wm6YfY_Z4yfwrGw1RJkNljsnw5MZEHMhZpANdVHFcCujXv3xXTo/s1600/IMG_20151019_123620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9o3aRHraY6RZJ870wY18dy_9hZ05QTC-hBytsLBCiL-KNIjEPyICFsqKYV788WSM2zMx_vagCAbsQ8zGqfj4kii1wm6YfY_Z4yfwrGw1RJkNljsnw5MZEHMhZpANdVHFcCujXv3xXTo/s400/IMG_20151019_123620.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My heart kind of skips a beat when I look at this picture. I love him so much and feel so incredibly thankful that Heavenly Father entrusted me with this little soul.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjORB_ARRR-V-4NGcZAHOqIwihrZAeMLkw-0Sn5ccy8mTdyv6sALWKfKEe8tTIi8xsNtiRudZvkm94wk9Ka-oo3tx9wV-jUg15WF_5GsTqQ-GkcnpMl9btNn-BBY0Q669WzHGlkGQBfhcc/s1600/20151019_185800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjORB_ARRR-V-4NGcZAHOqIwihrZAeMLkw-0Sn5ccy8mTdyv6sALWKfKEe8tTIi8xsNtiRudZvkm94wk9Ka-oo3tx9wV-jUg15WF_5GsTqQ-GkcnpMl9btNn-BBY0Q669WzHGlkGQBfhcc/s640/20151019_185800.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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OK it is SO STRANGE to see only 4 boys here! I really miss my Connor. He did send the birthday boy a card ---a pink glittery one:) He thinks he is so funny! Of course Bridger thought it was hilarious!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2-dmmWJULTjo_B1AIu5HRLHpgbXepxPSyyU0rkzV0Xsd-p5NJg69bzVTqDxeMvr3ZB-8pPe9R7wMe0jpEqZKxHdazOhNqnGeunVaTkocttrHU3wp-8GZDK2HtyMyR9SF07IYRqIviS4/s1600/20151022_082522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2-dmmWJULTjo_B1AIu5HRLHpgbXepxPSyyU0rkzV0Xsd-p5NJg69bzVTqDxeMvr3ZB-8pPe9R7wMe0jpEqZKxHdazOhNqnGeunVaTkocttrHU3wp-8GZDK2HtyMyR9SF07IYRqIviS4/s400/20151022_082522.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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A new BYU hat from Grammy and Papa! Oh yeah!! </div>
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He had a great birthday and was showered with gifts from all his brothers!</div>
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<strong>A favorite birthday tradition in our family</strong>--is that we go around the table and every gets a turn to say something they love and/or a memory about the birthday boy. It is so fun--and usually once the ball gets rolling it is hard to stop! Pretty soon everyone is laughing and my tough boys are getting sentimental about their brother:)<br />
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Brad and I gave him a new big bike (with gears--so exciting!!) and his brothers helped him break it in after dinner! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgH95KI2kVn8xU05jhgirI1fBhhqlXSldzSUB4lJKG7zwmGv9Kn_JTsImGqpbPtqdYjd5PyJO7B-97gr1-6ssrfl8Vn_jxgMrKBlqJXbiZmK-zE_aQZSAs9E9KUJA5-hLUw5xs_MxnlA/s1600/20151019_190613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgH95KI2kVn8xU05jhgirI1fBhhqlXSldzSUB4lJKG7zwmGv9Kn_JTsImGqpbPtqdYjd5PyJO7B-97gr1-6ssrfl8Vn_jxgMrKBlqJXbiZmK-zE_aQZSAs9E9KUJA5-hLUw5xs_MxnlA/s640/20151019_190613.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And THANK YOU so much for the sweet emails and comments welcoming me back!! I have the BEST blogging friends ever!!</div>
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xoxoxxo</div>
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PS I forgot to post my weekly menu--next week!!</div>
Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-13470637429993977522015-10-16T07:18:00.000-04:002015-10-28T14:27:31.305-04:00Friday Favorites<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Friday! </div>
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It has been a good week--but I am ready for the weekend! Pizza and BYU football tonight! Yeah!
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So here are a few of my favorites lately...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9bGx9SoMYAT144wpuuA31gvugvyM3CP3Y-PgSRaiKbsTRmHlfWl9EYXyfsyFK4zBsTFuOQ0kSIZSVyfLBBgGdO_OwFkXaUal1vOLw7NZzFNhle3WOUbw-g4K4pILT_-SkYUvJY-vEeT8/s1600/vanilla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9bGx9SoMYAT144wpuuA31gvugvyM3CP3Y-PgSRaiKbsTRmHlfWl9EYXyfsyFK4zBsTFuOQ0kSIZSVyfLBBgGdO_OwFkXaUal1vOLw7NZzFNhle3WOUbw-g4K4pILT_-SkYUvJY-vEeT8/s320/vanilla.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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This body butter from Bath and Body Works is the BEST!</div>
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It is made with coconut oil and shea butter. It is totally not greasy and so moisturizing. I love that my skin doesn't feel wet after I put it on--it absorbs so quickly. I am not usually a big fan of sweet vanilla scents but this one is more musky and subtle. I am hooked and right now they are on sale! Buy 3 get 3 Free! You can also use this coupon code to get 20% off your order <span class="codeValue js-code-dest">F158129 until November 3. I know because I just stocked up! They make a perfect gift!</span></div>
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Have you seen this movie?! It is SO good! Brad and I saw it in a full theatre on a Friday night. We were surprised when people started saying 'Amen" or "That's Right" and clapping here and there! HA! Only in the South! This movie was so inspiring to me. I am taking my boys to see it. What a blessing prayer is!</div>
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I am loving this new scent from Scentsy! Perfect for fall! This makes my house smell so good!</div>
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(Cute floral print <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HoneyLemonDesigns?ref=l2-shopheader-name">here</a>)</div>
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I love this idea to 'Ponderize' (80% memorize and 20% memorize) from this talk <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/watch/2015/10?lang=eng&vid=4531487647001&cid=4">here.</a> As a family we are going to pick a scripture every week. The one I have chosen to start off with is <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzh8MVVF4vCi4HJA0zqOkmAQsUiPe99s2Ju7OQb2X6qCp8jL5Mf48-9dZ8Iws8xZ7hogn8fnr5IR0ZDTvEcPmxFfT-aqU9Ha8dv8QvcbkKBhhyeHukxhLG20BW22kQh-hoqyG5_ATwKn0/s1600/kind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzh8MVVF4vCi4HJA0zqOkmAQsUiPe99s2Ju7OQb2X6qCp8jL5Mf48-9dZ8Iws8xZ7hogn8fnr5IR0ZDTvEcPmxFfT-aqU9Ha8dv8QvcbkKBhhyeHukxhLG20BW22kQh-hoqyG5_ATwKn0/s320/kind.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(photo from kindness.begins.with.me Instagram account)</div>
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Have a wonderful weekend! </div>
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Please share your favorites with me! I always love to get recommendations of good stuff:)</div>
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xoxoxo </div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-32991365196969689692015-10-15T22:51:00.001-04:002015-10-15T23:27:36.084-04:00Well Hello Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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(order on Etsy <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/thewheatfield" target="_blank">here )</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This little quote came to mind</span> when I thought this was a fine time to pick back up with my blog! I have missed it! Blogging has been such a fun hobby for so many reasons. First, I love the opportunity to write--to try and record my thoughts and life. Next I LOVE to connect with others. I seriously enjoy the comments, emails, and getting to "meet" other women that I never would have been able to with out blogging. In fact, I got the sweetest email just yesterday from someone all the way across the country who has read this little blog for years! It made my day and inspired me to get back to it! Last, this is my place to focus on the good and happy things in life. I will be the first to admit that life is hard-- it is not all sunshine and roses but one of my favorite quotes is:</div>
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<em><strong>“Both abundance and lack [of abundance] exist simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend … when we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that’s present—love, health, family, friends, work, the joys of nature, and personal pursuits that bring us [happiness]—the wasteland of illusion falls away and we experience heaven on earth.”</strong></em><sup class="noteMarker"> </sup></div>
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<sup>(Comes from this awesome talk <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2008/10/finding-joy-in-the-journey?lang=eng" target="_blank">here</a> )</sup></div>
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So I will start back with some of the little happy moments that I have tucked away in my heart recently.</div>
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Last week was our Fall break and we took off for just a couple of days to one of our favorite spots here in the South...Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. </div>
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After 6 hours in the car the boys wasted no time hitting the waves!</div>
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They dove in with such pure joyful reckless abandon--I loved it!</div>
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Although I miss my boy so much, I LOVE that he is so happy serving in his first area...way out in the boonies, in a tiny little town in Alabama. He is spending his days serving others in anyway he can, sharing with them the love of God, testifying of Jesus Christ and teaching those who want to listen.</div>
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Just look at that genuine smile on a recent baptism day:</div>
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Last for now...I will never forget the first few days of Fall Break when I decided to plant 250 bulbs. Yes, I am not kidding-- I got a little carried away one evening shopping online!</div>
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I was really questioning my judgement ordering all those tulips when it came time to plant them. It was so hot and humid! I was exhausted after the first 50--but luckily my cute boys came to the rescue. All of them were out digging and helping me get it done. I just hope my yard doesn't look ridiculous come Spring. HAha!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitX-nQ1iyiWqzHsSUx0dA-1SCR0ocIvKDtl3D_OpSSJFYbxpwBYOm1pDYZRUcms15eBldRR0NxyQoxesqAKCZdQwr8iHCkHvbhs8cpXuzaBeh6CCHkzU3iwGmgeUzddS3U3gJ0GBbbClk/s1600/20151006_190229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitX-nQ1iyiWqzHsSUx0dA-1SCR0ocIvKDtl3D_OpSSJFYbxpwBYOm1pDYZRUcms15eBldRR0NxyQoxesqAKCZdQwr8iHCkHvbhs8cpXuzaBeh6CCHkzU3iwGmgeUzddS3U3gJ0GBbbClk/s640/20151006_190229.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well it is good to be back! I am already thinking about a 'Friday Favorites' tomorrow--just for fun!</div>
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Oh and I need to start posting my weekly menu again. That was so helpful for ME!</div>
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I go in spurts with menu planning--but life is so much better when I do them:)</div>
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xoxoxo</div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-25440900885323561402015-04-13T16:38:00.001-04:002015-04-13T16:42:06.277-04:00Connor's Misson Call<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last Monday he came home from school to find his LDS mission call in the mail!!</div>
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So we called some friends and got our family on Facetime and at 7pm he opened his call:)</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyMVLNl23XWbiZ7v2QT79DHYZ2k6CtJTH2-1d3m5n7H_rUg3A7tI518oFVxwQeiYoYJYrolw5pe0e4Jm2I5YQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Tallahassee Florida Mision!!</span></strong></div>
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He reports to the MTC on July 8th.</div>
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Connor is so excited to testify of Jesus Christ and serve the people of this mission for the next 2 years.</div>
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I could not be happier that my sweet boy has chosen to dedicate this time to God. I have noticed the effort he has taken to read the scriptures more, study the doctrine and be prepared. He looks for opportunities to bear his testimony of Christ and serve in quiet ways. He is such a good example to me and the band of brothers that make up our family. I know that he will be a great instrument in the Lord's hand to bring about much good! My heart could burst with love for this boy!</div>
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After everyone left we all settled in for the big National Championship game.:)</div>
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It was late on a school night here on East Coast but I couldn't say no--they were all so cute glued to the game! Life with these guys is pretty good!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-48237119080485921432015-03-23T05:00:00.000-04:002015-03-23T05:00:05.098-04:00Big Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Coleman was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society last week. I am so impressed with this boy and his friends who work so hard in school!<br />
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I sure do love this sweet boy!</div>
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He has had a very busy year so far with football in the fall, basketball this winter and currently running track but has still been very disciplined to keep his grades up!</div>
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He is growing up so fast and I couldn't be happier with the young man he is becoming.</div>
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I love you Coleman Keith! </div>
Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-51412309838746508002015-03-21T21:03:00.000-04:002015-03-21T21:03:31.855-04:00Where in the world Will Connor Go?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Guess what? We got an email on Tuesday night from our Stake President saying that Connor's mission papers had been submitted!!</div>
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This boy is SO excited to serve the Lord for 2 years on an LDS mission!</div>
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He is spending extra time everyday studying the scriptures and the Preach My Gospel manual.</div>
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It truly warms my heart. I am so happy for him and this experience that will change his life. </div>
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So we have a couple of weeks to make guesses as to where we thin he is going to be called</div>
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Where do you think?</div>
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I sure do love this boy so much! What a gift to be his Mother!</div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-75552114928715183872015-03-19T07:16:00.002-04:002015-03-21T20:49:54.414-04:00St Patricks Day Celebrations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As always we thoroughly enjoyed St Patricks Day at the Christensen Home. </div>
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We celebrate because it is a long standing family tradition, we have Irish Heritage and it is FUN! <br />
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(Cannon and Bridger--who was sick with a bad head cold-poor guy!)</div>
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I think we are confusing my little boys though. They could not believe that they had to go to school on this 'big holiday". So unfair in their cute little minds! After they gathered the gold and rainbow candies scattered here and there from that funny Leprechan that likes our family:) We enjoyed some lovely green pancakes and a VERY green smoothie (to offset the candy)!<br />
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I have to admit that I LOVE celebrating holidays. It makes me happy and it builds memories with my boys. One of my favorite parts of any celebration is setting the table. So fun! <br />
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On the menu:</div>
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Irish Stew served over</div>
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Colcannon</div>
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Scones,</div>
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Green Apple slices,</div>
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Chocolate Mint Brownies</div>
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We spent some time after dinner learning all about one of our Irish Ancestors my Great Great Grandma</div>
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Mary Jane Parks McConnell.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8O7cu6UC8_saahL3nZD_xYMlHqSuHjY-YVl64acXz8WTMq65iCtapyahBSd2UJ1X6RxrRYEhfFrdScuE7CXdeOZ7pRMz3rP-w2j2hmcjL0U_cVbmFGY2q3AeyCn6WLg-LK7n52eiH4I/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8O7cu6UC8_saahL3nZD_xYMlHqSuHjY-YVl64acXz8WTMq65iCtapyahBSd2UJ1X6RxrRYEhfFrdScuE7CXdeOZ7pRMz3rP-w2j2hmcjL0U_cVbmFGY2q3AeyCn6WLg-LK7n52eiH4I/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
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She has a wonderful story of faith! Her strong spirit, dedication to the Lord and living the gospel are so inspiring! It was a great experience to gather my family around and introduce them to her. We really felt her testimony and love of God as we read about her life.</div>
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I am so thankful for her example and sacrifices!</div>
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It was a wonderful St Patrick's Day!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-24086619709670717032015-03-16T13:18:00.001-04:002015-03-21T20:49:36.938-04:00Happy Monday<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">We had a solid week of gray skies and rain last week so you can imagine how a glorious blue sky and sunshine is appreciated today! It is a great way to start out the week! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We had a nice weekend</span>--Cannon got to try a egg mcmuffin for the first time. We are not big Mcdonalds fans around here--but still I pretty surprised when he told me that he had NEVER had one before. Saturday morning everyone was gone except for the two of us and that is what he wanted for breakfast when I told him we could go somewhere for breakfast. Silly boy!</div>
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Verdict: It was "pretty good" but he likes my pancakes better:)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My boys were thrilled to see our BYU Cougars in the March Madness brackets!</span></div>
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This picture was taken a couple of weeks ago in the wee hours of the morning when BYU made history beating Gonzago at home ending their 4 year winning streak. Let me tell you it is hard to be a true blue BYU fan when you live on the East Coast. Most games end up being in the middle of night for us--ugh!! It never stops these super fans though:)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Connor finished his big Capstone Senior Project</span> last week--phew! That was hanging over his head all year! He did a great job so we celebrated with a lunch at Cheddars! I am going to really miss this boy next year! He had his interview with the Stake President yesterday and his mission papers should be in by the end of the week! He is SO excited to get his mission call!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bridger has found a friend that shares his obsession for Hockey!</span> These two boys are living in the wrong place to play hockey (there are no leagues here to join) so they created their own! They play at our house ...<br />
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and at his house. Pretty much anytime they get a chance:) Bridger now has all the Hockey games televised set to record! Some of his brothers that are trying to record basketball games complain that hockey is taking over the DVR!</div>
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Last weekend we took the boys to see McFarland (the cross country team running movie with Kevin Costner)<br />
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It was a good movie! The boys liked it but I was excited with this preview: </div>
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The boys all swore that there was NO way they were going to that movie and that I would have to go by myself! Then my very sweet husband surprised me by coming home early Friday night with tickets!! What a guy! It was super fun!</div>
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It reminded me of another Cinderella movie Ever After...have you seen it? It came out a long TIME AGO-- but I remember that I loved it! Now I may have to find the DVD on Amazon:) Won't my boys be thrilled with that purchase?! Haha:)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you have a wonderful week!</span> </div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-88665138922310580582015-02-13T14:57:00.001-05:002015-03-21T20:49:13.464-04:00Happenings <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My goodness time is flying by! I can't believe I haven't posted in 2 weeks. Well since I announced my desire to RUN it seems like everything has been stacked against me!</div>
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I have been up to my eyeballs in "Mommy Duties"! At my house we have had wisdom teeth out, double ear infections, head colds, stomach bugs, bad head aches, possible lactose intolerance (still investigating that), plus all our regular activities, add to the mix a traveling husband and as you can guess...</div>
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I did not run as much as I wanted to! Ha!</div>
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Hopefully the next two weeks will be better:)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In happier news this week..</span></div>
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Love is in the air!</div>
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This is one of my favorite family traditions! I love to read what boys consider "love notes"</div>
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A bowl full of candy motivates them to all kinds of poetic declarations!!</div>
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And more happy news--my boy is getting ready for his mission! We started his papers a couple of weeks ago--wisdom teeth out, dentist and doctor appoints done and even a MISSIONARY HAIRCUT!! Woo hooo!</div>
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Pretty soon little brothers followed suit and I have myself some clean cut boys again:)</div>
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I even got my hair done. Brad was out of town and wanted to see my new do and obliged since it never looks so smooth when I do it:)</div>
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Last but not least--Connor gave the best Family Home Evening on the Atonement and what it means to him. He used the Preach my Gospel book and taught with the Spirit and a lot of heart. It was awesome and I will never forgot it.</div>
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I hope you all have a wonderful Valentines Day!</div>
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We have are attending a couples party on Saturday and celebrating with the boys on Sunday!</div>
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I LOVE this holiday!!</div>
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xo</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-90795432504476555822015-01-28T06:00:00.000-05:002015-03-21T20:48:44.762-04:00To Run<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last year I joined a little tiny gym close to my house and it was great for awhile, but I need a change and more importantly a <span style="font-size: large;">challenge</span>. As I thought about this new year and what I want to accomplish, I came to the conclusion that I wanted to do something hard, really push myself and feel that sense of accomplishment. </div>
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I decided that I want to RUN a half marathon. It makes me nervous to type this but I need to be accountable! I also had the idea pop into my head that maybe this is something my boys and I can do together. Running is hard--for me it is a mental exercise more than a physical one. I remember the first time I ran a 5K and the sense of accomplishment I felt and I want them to experience that too! I started to research races in my area and found lots of options. I wish they weren't so expensive, but I am thinking that instead of paying for a gym pass I can pay for some races--especially if I can convince some of my sons to run with me! It would be worth every penny!</div>
I found these pictures here on Womensrunning.com. and was inspired to make this happen:)<br />
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Of course this is not always possible like early this morning when the only time I could squeeze in a run, it was too dark and cold to be out! Even still, I am craving being outdoors with the wind in my hair!</div>
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So this is what I am planning:</div>
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I have found a 5k the end of February, a 10k in March, a 15k in April and I have my eye on a Half Marathon in July! I haven't registered yet because I want to make sure we can work our summer plans around it BUT I have this idea growing in my mind and heart and it is getting me very excited. So excited that I ran on my boring old treadmill this morning for 2 miles without walking. Pretty huge for me! I am really not a "runner" My idea of running the last couple of years has been running/ walking like interval training--not really all that hard most of the time:) This morning was the first time I have run a couple of miles without walking and it felt GREAT! </div>
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Do you run? If so do you listen to something? Any music or book recommendations?</div>
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I would LOVE any advice you have!</div>
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xo</div>
<br />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-42691427417052776522015-01-27T16:40:00.002-05:002015-02-13T15:01:56.700-05:00Winter in the South<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This winter has been very mild so far here in Tennessee. In makes me crazy that most days, my boys come to breakfast in shorts that they have dug out of the carefully packed away drawer of summer clothes:) I am sure people wonder what kind of Mother they have but sometimes I don't want the battle and think 'love and logic-ly' ( have you read that parenting book? It's a good one!) about it and hope they will be so cold they will go back to wearing pants! With such a mild winter though the natural consequences aren't really having an impact!<br />
Last Sunday was one of those lovely days that you should be outside and we were feeling a bit antsy after church so we all went for a walk on the "greenbelt" a beautiful walking path not far from home.</div>
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We of course got stuck playing at this particular spot on the trail for a LONG time. The boys never seem to tire of skipping rocks and watching twigs get carried away in the currents.</div>
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My older boys didn't want to photographed, but I was a little sneaky on this shot:)</div>
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Brad is in Niagra Falls on a business trip so the boys wanted me to text him a picture of our mighty falls and see how it compared to the falls outside his hotel!</div>
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Moments like this melt my heart...</div>
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We have REALLY been enjoying this winter. </div>
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We even had a "snow day" last week where the kids didn't have to go to school due to the worry of icy roads. It ended up being the best day of the week--blue skies and sunshine! </div>
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They spent it...</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoVrn6YNF0CaQQY0-lUTg-4ew-nA7G1A1SDB2xYggidQHd669Yh8XQlFp7ZHX-XWkzC3cbEG7b4UStwAB2o6DH4uLGC0RktjkjHhyfOmvIM50MYnF63H2zrzcIX5JMMIy77Anse8fPgBw/s0/20150116_160640.mp4" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6109132639328577490?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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sledding, in shorts no less!</div>
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Only in the South!!</div>
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Gotta love this crazy place:)</div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-12808727227451861482015-01-12T18:15:00.000-05:002015-01-12T18:15:00.695-05:00Luncheon with my Girls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am so thankful to serve in the Young Women's organization at church. I get to be with these cuties every Sunday and Wednesday night. I recently invited them over for a little luncheon to chat about our new theme this year and do some planning. We talked about what we wanted to do this year at our weekly activities and made some decorations for an upcoming event called New Beginnings.</div>
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It was so fun!</div>
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I love these girls so much!!</div>
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This scripture is the theme for our Youth this year:</div>
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I LOVE it! As I prepared the first lesson of the year to introduce the new theme I was really inspired and filled with a desire to serve God with all my "heart, might, mind and strength" I know this is the key to true happiness. </div>
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Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-224680393031983162015-01-10T16:20:00.000-05:002015-10-22T18:50:57.279-04:00Time Once Again For<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Season 5 is now underway! I had a bunch of ladies over the other night to watch the season opener with lots of warm scones (lemon poppyseed variation)and herbal tea!</div>
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It was so fun!!</div>
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It was a much needed girl time and so much better than the football games my boys were watching:)</div>
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Do you have any favorite shows? </div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-87330978949299910232015-01-09T16:13:00.003-05:002015-01-09T18:28:38.682-05:00Happy New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our New Years celebrations</span> were fairly low key this year coming off our wild and crazy Christmas:)</div>
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We did have a special family dinner of ham, cheesy potatoes, rolls, salad and lots of "bubbly" of course for the traditional toasting!</div>
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I have yet to set my New Years Resolutions--have you?</div>
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I will have them done by this weekend for a start on Monday!</div>
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I absolutely LOVE to set goals. I do it all the time but the new year and my birthday(end of May) are always a special time for me to sit down and really put some thought into the direction my life is going, and what I want to accomplish. </div>
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I will set some personal goals in these areas:</div>
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Spiritual, Physical, Mental, Social</div>
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Then I will break them down to what I need to do each month, week and hopefully daily.</div>
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What a blessing that each new day is a fresh start to evaluate how I am doing and what I can improve on. I want to be developing into the woman that God wants me to become.</div>
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I was thinking about how my morning and evening prayers are such a great time for this process. In the morning I can plan my day with Him and ask for guidance and help in my life especially in my role as a wife and mother. Before bed my prayers can be a time to report back, honestly taking a look at how I did, what I could do better and seeking forgiveness as needed. I know that Heavenly Father listens to our prayers--that He is there and cares. When we put our trust in Him and make Him a part of our lives, He will guide us and strengthen us in miraculous ways.</div>
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And then...</div>
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(Print <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/108464616/you-shall-see-wonders-horizontal-print?ref=shop_home_active_17" target="_blank">here)</a></div>
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More on goals to come:)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome 2015 and all the opportunities for growth that it will surely hold for us!</span></div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-16183394531405816852014-12-30T18:43:00.003-05:002014-12-30T18:53:18.337-05:00Last Arizona Post--promise<div style="text-align: center;">
OK --I know what you are thinking, enough already of the trip to Arizona, I know!! BUT since we rarely EVERY get there, I wanted to really document it for my family blog book...so humor one last post and then I am done, I promise:)
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One afternoon Grandma treated us all to ice skating. It was so funny to be warm outside and then icy cold in. My boys LOVED it! Coleman has seriously begged me for years to play on a hockey team, but there are no permanent ice rinks in Chattanooga.<br />
He was in heaven--and was really pretty good too!!</div>
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It was so much fun!! The boys LOVED it!</div>
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I think it was our Canadian side coming out:)</div>
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Straight from the ice to swimming in Grandma's backyard! </div>
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My boys all agreed that winter in Arizona is pretty sweet!</div>
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BRRrrrr--while the hot tub was heated these crazy kids were plunging into the very cold pool too!</div>
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Nice!!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Arizona will always have a special place in my heart. This is where Brad and I met and our first son was born.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We will miss this beautiful place, but mostly we will miss ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> family time!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The trip was so fun! Thanks to our awesome Christensen family for hosting our crazy gang!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now come to Chattanooga:)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We love you all so much!!</span></div>
Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-4309133068420143292014-12-30T18:18:00.002-05:002014-12-30T18:28:33.077-05:00Mesa Temple Lights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj218rQH-gRCovsl8sYbuQxNAc63I_iQ6QOaqyVOYuBCCcq22DL-12uOroMOFWwviRSLGiZQgxnUb8hoC0LYbDFhZAGko63E02YJKxviNB6UHVLO9JfvK59l14t-SFxD93oKWAkVEDc6t8/s1600/20141222_191631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj218rQH-gRCovsl8sYbuQxNAc63I_iQ6QOaqyVOYuBCCcq22DL-12uOroMOFWwviRSLGiZQgxnUb8hoC0LYbDFhZAGko63E02YJKxviNB6UHVLO9JfvK59l14t-SFxD93oKWAkVEDc6t8/s1600/20141222_191631.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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After dinner at Café Rio we were off to the Mesa Temple to see the lights.</div>
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YUM! I still love that place!</div>
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Lots of piggy back rides going on</div>
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Coleman thought it was hot--silly boy!</div>
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Connor with his cute little Grandma and her goofy son photobombing</div>
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Sure do love this guy of mine:) </div>
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Such a beautiful display for a sacred place. It was so fun to be together with the Christensen gang!<br />
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After we headed to what we hear is pretty popular place-- Bahama Bucks. </div>
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Only in Arizona would you go for snow cones after Christmas lights! Hahaha</div>
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Everybody loved it!</div>
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Oh and see that plate above--on our way out of the temple we spotted the famous Waffle Love truck--I have heard about it from friends in Utah and Arizona but we don't have one in Tennessee. Well they were actually ready to pull out but were kind enough to give us one to try when they heard where we were from. So nice, huh?! And man alive that waffle was AMAZING! We LOVED it!<br />
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I think I may be finding a knock off recipe soon to make at home!</div>
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What a night!!</div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-51675433856885439182014-12-30T17:20:00.001-05:002014-12-30T17:20:33.816-05:00Camelback Mountain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For months I have been looking forward to introducing my boys to one of my Arizona favorites--hiking Camelback Mountain! </div>
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As a child growing up we would hike this on Thanksgiving and in High School I would hike it on Saturdays with my dog Molly as exercise, and when Brad and I were engaged I talked him into hiking it with me one night. I will have to look for some of the old pictures I have up here to show the boys. I LOVE this place.</div>
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It was SO FUN to hike this special mountain with my boys!</div>
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We called it Forced Family Fun:) </div>
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The boys had a blast taking crazy shots with their new Go Pro camera Santa brought!<br />
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Cannon and Bridger were like the energizer bunny all the way up--leading the way!</div>
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But on the way down they were exhausted and HUNGRY!</div>
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It was hilarious the change --what was fun was fun no longer!</div>
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OOPs I should have packed food.</div>
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It really was a lot harder than I remember. These boys were scaling rocks and working hard!</div>
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We finally made it to the TOP--woo hoo!! </div>
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We were delighted to find a cute little Christmas tree up there!</div>
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The view of the valley from up there is AWESOME!</div>
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It was day I will never forget!</div>
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On the way home I introduced them to another Arizona favorite--cookies from Paradise Bakery and everyone was happy again!</div>
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Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-91155493103706960992014-12-28T13:01:00.000-05:002014-12-30T18:52:04.742-05:00Christmas Day 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As tradition dictates--the line up--youngest to oldest:)</div>
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Yep--Santa was here!</div>
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Then over to Carries with all our gfits to have one big unwrapping party!!</div>
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Seriously look at that tree!! With so many people we literaly opened presents for most of the day. I must say it was really fun to drag out the fun though!!</div>
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This was a special gift from TJ--Connor broke his board the day before we left --TJ researched and found a place in Arizona that had the deck he wanted and bought it for him in addition to the gift he already had. I thought it was so sweet that he wanted to spend his hard earned savings from his summer job on his brother. He kept saying that it was Connor's last Christmas before he leaves on his mission and he wanted it to be great!</div>
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We ended the day with a walk to play at the park--what a beautiful Arizona winter day!</div>
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Merry Christmas from Arizona!!</div>
<br />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5858280271217609516.post-50832488619054558212014-12-27T12:51:00.000-05:002014-12-30T13:03:25.210-05:00Christmas Eve 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Cannon joined me on my morning walk. We stopped and checked out every cactus, sampled several neighborhood playgrounds, played a little baseball and chatted the whole time! It was the PERFECT way to start off this special day!</div>
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We named this little contraption "bowl full of Cannon"</div>
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I love this little boy so much! I still can hardly believe that my baby is so big!</div>
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Soon we were off to Aunt Carrie and Uncle TJ's for a wonderful dinner and family night.</div>
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Starting it all off with decorating some sugar cookies</div>
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The oldest (grandson) and the youngest Christensen grandbabies:)</div>
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Aunt Carrie had a brilliant idea and announced that before dinner would be served we had to do family pictures in front of the tree!</div>
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That's my kind of girl:)</div>
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oops someones flash was going off and brightened up this picture of Brad's older brother Scott and kids Carly and Adam.. Such a cute family!!</div>
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Carrie, TJ and their darling girls--Madison, Cali, Mackenzie and baby Piper</div>
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And Grandma with her husband Deloy</div>
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After an amazing Beef Tenderloin dinner made by Uncle TJ we enjoyed the nativity and </div>
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some musical talents thanks to my sweet nieces.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBid9r_PstNa2Y1GRRzx7IJVzMevERNVw65rbSj9ks9oQWeWhE6LrlpJzbigLf2TgUvH_WdPBOXdSz6aIlwG21CzlM2Be5cFnUPmr8AQUUceiEnc4qssuVYE5l0lqxNUj2ezV6xvKdN4/s1600/20141224_211530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBid9r_PstNa2Y1GRRzx7IJVzMevERNVw65rbSj9ks9oQWeWhE6LrlpJzbigLf2TgUvH_WdPBOXdSz6aIlwG21CzlM2Be5cFnUPmr8AQUUceiEnc4qssuVYE5l0lqxNUj2ezV6xvKdN4/s1600/20141224_211530.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then we sang Christmas carols with Grandma at the piano--and some costume sharing may have been going on. My silly boys!</div>
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Pretty soon we were off to bed --I think it is the ONLY night of the whole year that my boys want to go to bed as early as possible:)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-YStVuM-k1t5EKrnOR00JLMnb-Er76m6OJeUwwh9ok3je5Yet-szjiRn7-Gf91U2m-VgfkmG5qTHMC-tpX8PSxl8puBh5oVmdcQphEGFE14t8jo8pK6IJtHMQmgARf9ORk_VcJUI3I4/s1600/20141224_165406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-YStVuM-k1t5EKrnOR00JLMnb-Er76m6OJeUwwh9ok3je5Yet-szjiRn7-Gf91U2m-VgfkmG5qTHMC-tpX8PSxl8puBh5oVmdcQphEGFE14t8jo8pK6IJtHMQmgARf9ORk_VcJUI3I4/s1600/20141224_165406.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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My heart was so full that day as I reflected on the greatest gift the world has known--our savior Jesus Christ. </div>
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I love this quote from Howard W. Hunter:</div>
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<strong><em>"This Christmas, mend a quarrel. Seek out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Write a letter. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed. Keep a promise. Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Apologize. Try to understand. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Be kind. Be gentle. Laugh a little more. Express your gratitude.. Welcome a stranger. Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak your love and then speak it again.</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>Without Christ, there would be no Christmas. Without Christ, there can be no fulness of joy. Without His birth and His Atonement, we would have no Intercessor, no Advocate with the Father, and no Mediator who makes it possible for us to return to the presence of our loving Heavenly Father and live together as eternal families."</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
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I am so thankful for Jesus Christ--for his perfect example of how to live and his gift of the atonement. </div>
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I want to try harder to be more like him and share his love with others whenever I can.</div>
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Merry Christmas Eve and goodnight!</div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmTt6fRcg6b4wk23hSNOgETb8S9Tb50D2MbtkHYDc4db6343TLv8717tpPouccKT91Hqpx2Qkx4PKtUKbElcwM9Bku80Z3JRoQnJtR1CNt4DXo3YZugT7bBdNpaLKjiJ3LqRdoVcYVfg/s1600/signature.png" />Melanie Anne http://www.blogger.com/profile/16738459755828893161noreply@blogger.com2