tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22824345143518886772024-03-13T13:35:39.280-07:00That Crazy Mom Over There...Because sometimes, even I have no clue what's going on.That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-35325616472632824402012-08-31T11:03:00.000-07:002012-08-31T11:03:01.235-07:00Back to School... <div style="text-align: center;">
For all three kids... for the first time ever...</div>
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Just a second.</div>
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WOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</div>
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Pardon my happy dance. I've never had 3 hours and 20 minutes (but who's counting) to myself, each day of the week! I cannot believe how much I can get accomplished in that amount of time. I either go into hyperdrive and check off my entire to-do list... or I sleep. ;) Ok, that only happened on Tuesday. So sue me.</div>
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Mr. Crazy and I even had a breakfast date this morning, which shall now become tradition every other Friday when he has off. We LOVED our time together. All I can say is, God sure knew what he was doing a year ago when my world changed. Happier now than I've ever been.</div>
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Are you a SAHM and enjoying your "quiet" time? What are you going to do with your time (besides volunteer countless hours to the school)? </div>
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Have a great Labor Day weekend!... which also kicks off college football!!! Told you I'm a happy girl. :D</div>
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XOXO,</div>
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That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-39773591695451506702012-08-13T18:44:00.000-07:002012-08-13T19:16:03.999-07:00That Beachy Bathroom<div style="text-align: center;">
It should come as no surprise that in a townhome, space planning is necessary. Well in ours, it seems as though a powder room was an afterthought, shoved behind the laundry room. Ask me how excited I am that our friends have to walk through our laundry area to use the potty... a very.small.potty.room.</div>
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So I decided to give it a little sprucing up. As mentioned before, my whole downstairs has exposed wood with a "Cape Cod" type of feel, so I've tried to keep things light and airy. The powder room is no exception with exposed wood on the ceiling. Let's take a look at the before snapshots, shall we?</div>
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Yeah. Small.</div>
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So I found this great color at Home Depot. It's called Tropical Lagoon (GLB20) from Glidden, and things kind of took off from there. We have a TJ Maxx Homegoods store by us, so I shopped around a bit and found some candles, hand towels and my favorite piece, the wall picture.</div>
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Are you ready???</div>
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Ta-da!!! </div>
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What do you think???</div>
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Let me start with the light/plug socket frames. I found these at Walmart, unpainted, for $3. I already had this pretty teal color so I painted them and added rope with my hot glue gun. Lastly, I had seashells left over from our Mother's Day Luau, so I hot glued them in the corners as well. Totally cute, right? (PS - The difference in wall color is merely flash vs no-flash.)</div>
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Now, this little lighthouse gem I found in the dollar section at Michael's a couple months ago and bought it for no particular reason... just thought it would be a simple project. I think it was probably meant as a bird feeder but, ummmmm hello beachy bathroom. You go perfectly in here. So I painted it white with the same teal paint on top and voila! Love.</div>
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My last homemade project for the bathroom was a washcloth holder. You'll never believe what it's made out of... an empty peanut butter jar. Yup. I cleaned it out, added paint and our initial, and finally some rope and a seashell with the hot glue gun. Super easy and super adorable. I smile every time I see it.</div>
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I got the silver rack behind the toilet at Walmart as well for a mere $16. With that small of a bathroom, I need the storage. I may add some blue stripes to the back wall in the near future, but we'll see. Everything topped off with a few accessories and I have myself a cute beachy (but still small) bathroom. <br />
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Linking up at: <br />
<a href="http://www.kdbuggieboutique.com/2012/08/mingle-monday-8132012.html" target="_blank">Mingle Mondays</a></div>
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Hope you like it! Until next time, have a fabulous week!</div>
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XOXO,</div>
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That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-40820999399732626952012-07-26T18:12:00.001-07:002012-07-26T18:36:43.014-07:00Old Dresser Made Over<div style="text-align: center;">
Many years ago we were given a dresser for my step-daughter, Jordan, that basically served its purpose. It wasn't anything spectacular. There were old stickers left on. What was probably once white, was now an antique yellow... and not the pretty kind. Is there a pretty kind? Not to mention, there was gold trim everywhere. Now that we've moved and Jordan and I were able to pick out her room decor, I got to work on it right away. Well, somewhat right away. ;) </div>
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Let's just take a look at the before pictures:</div>
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Can we say yuck?!?! Ok, let's get to the details.</div>
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First, I painted the entire dresser with two coats of satin white paint. Piece of cake.</div>
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I found this amazing contact paper at Home Depot when I was there shopping for moving boxes of all things. It's a 16ft long stripe with a "damask" type pattern on it. This company makes ALL kinds of decals! You can find their website here: <a href="http://www.wall-pops.com/" target="_blank">Wall-Pops</a>. I thought it would look perfect on the fronts of the drawers. I think I underestimated just how beautiful it would look though. It's a simple peel and stick and I was able to cut it to size so easily.</div>
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The hardware was still very vintage, but adorable, so I decided to spray it a bright pink... but of course, it had to sparkle! I got "Posh Pink" glitter spray made by Krylon from Michaels Craft Store. Ummmmm hello shiny! Perfection. I loved it so much, I decided to spray her curtain tie-back with the same spray.</div>
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Finally, the top drawer was a little too difficult to cut the contact paper to shape, so I figured, why not go all black? It makes the bright pink hardware pop! I trimmed the top with the black as well, and voila! Brand.New.Dresser.</div>
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Drumroll please...</div>
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So what do ya think? Simply perfect for an almost 8 year old, right? Well, she absolutely loves it, so that's what matters most to me.<br />
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Linking up at: </div>
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<a href="http://504main.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i883.photobucket.com/albums/ac35/Holly7081/504Mainbuttonfridays-1.jpg" /></a><br />
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Next time, I'll be updating with the finished product of our downstairs powder room. It's all beachy and cute. Have a great weekend everyone!</div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-88055172975770556842012-07-23T11:37:00.000-07:002012-07-23T11:54:40.961-07:00Best Road Trip Ever<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Let me be the first to say that I cannot believe we conquered 8 states, 2986 miles, in 8 days. But let me also be the first to say it was the most incredible vacation I've ever taken. </div>
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Every day of prep was worth it.</div>
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Every moment spent researching and pinning was worth it.</div>
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Every printable was worth it.</div>
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Every memory created... perfection.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We took the detour off the Columbia River Trail in Oregon to stop at the historic Oregon Waterfalls. Can I go back now?</td></tr>
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Ok, snapping back into reality now. I'll give you the low-down on everything we did to stay sane. Brace yourselves... this will be a picture heavy post and <b>LOADED</b> with information. You might want to grab a cup of coffee.</div>
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<b>~Let's start with the pre-trip prep~</b></div>
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First of all, activity baskets are a must. Of course, we brought library books and movies with us, but those don't last long enough. Every item in these baskets, except for the disposable cameras, came from the Dollar Tree. Mom for the win! Here is what I included:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Disposable Camera</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Water Bottle</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Dry Erase Board and Marker</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Dry Erase Activity Pack</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Coloring Book and Crayons</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Clipboard</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Binder (contents explained below)</span></li>
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Colored coded for the kiddos. Never a fight over mixed up goods. Awesome.</div>
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Now for the binder. This was a lifesaver. I'm not one for wanting to put on hours upon hours of movies in the car. So these came in handy the entire trip. After scouring Pinterest, I've included links for some of the best printables I used. The "grade-appropriate" worksheets for my two almost third graders came from workbooks that were sent home at the end of the school year and the ones for my almost Kindergarten came from the internet. I'm all for keeping your brain going through the summer months. <span style="background-color: white;">Here's a breakdown of the binder:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Road Trip Map</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Pouch for Pencils and Dry Erase Markers</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Games (put in sheet protectors so they could use their dry erase markers on, then re-use later... again a lifesaver)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Vacation Journal Pages to document their favorite moments</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">An empty sheet protector for them to slip brochures, tickets, etc into along the way</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Worksheet Activities divided up by day</span></li>
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Here are the fantastic blogs I got the printables from:</div>
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<a href="http://www.thedatingdivas.com/tara/the-road-trip-date/" target="_blank">The Dating Divas - Road Trip Date</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.momsminivan.com/blog/2009/08/printable-bingo-cards-reuse-them.html" target="_blank">Moms Mini Van</a></div>
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Look at how happy my little blondie is with his board. :) I love that I have lots of images imprinted in my mind of looking back to happy faces. </div>
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So what's the next thing you need besides activities? S.N.A.C.K.S. I've got this covered. Hubs and I went on a snack shopping spree at the Dollar Tree and Vons and I organized them in the cooler. I made a detailed list of each snack and how much we had, slapped them in a sheet protector, and crossed the quantities out as we used them. There was never a struggle determining what we had, how much we had left or where to find them. Plus, the kids each had their own cupcake pans (which I of course use almost daily), and that made snack time all the more, well, easy. Super easy separation. Super easy clean up.</div>
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Ok, packing. I hate packing. I checked the weather daily to see what each day would be like in each different state. This was by far the biggest task at hand. However, I'm a big believer in organizing by ziplock bags, so that's exactly what I did. I've used ziplock bags for years when we travel. It's so easy to get the air out and get everything packed so neatly. Plus, I got all three kids packed for 8 days in ONE suticase. Go ahead and read that sentence again. Including shoes. Yup. I labeled each bag with their names, day, city (or cities) and the weather expected. As they would get dressed in the morning, we would put the previous day's dirty clothes in the bag, zip it up and put it back in the suitcase. No clean clothes touched any dirty clothes ever. </div>
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<b>~Let's get on the road~</b></div>
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So at 7:45am on Friday the 13th, we set out on the road. Of course our first stop was for donuts and coffee... because you just have to. :) The same blog that I got the license plate game from also had great printables for a road trip countdown. I hung them with a ribbon across the van and labeled each large city we were stopping at. As we went along, we removed each tag and the countdown got smaller. The kids got a real kick out of it. They also have a game for the hubby and wife to play while driving. I've heard that road trips can make or break it for some people. Let me just go on the record and say, <i>I'm more in love with my husband than the day I said "I do" after this trip</i>. The questions were so much fun to ask each other and (sometimes) the answers were even better.</div>
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Last but not least, my favorite part of the ride (and probably my children's), was the "good behavior" dollar bills. I picked up some play money from the Dollar Tree (I should seriously get royalties for plugging them so much). </div>
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Each half hour, the kids could earn a dollar bill for good behavior. When they reached four dollars, they could turn them in for a treat (Pixie Sticks, Airheads, Ring Pops, Suckers). Believe me when I say if you forget when the half hour has passed, they certainly have not. </div>
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Here's a couple of my favorite pics to close with:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is the Clark Fork River we paralleled the entire time through Montana on I-90. It was so incredible. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n3c51uPhDG4/UA2HzoKgb6I/AAAAAAAAAaQ/nGdqCJFZDMU/s1600/DSC03248.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n3c51uPhDG4/UA2HzoKgb6I/AAAAAAAAAaQ/nGdqCJFZDMU/s320/DSC03248.1.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">In two places at once! Standing on the Idaho-Montana border. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Driving through the clouds of the Idaho mountain roads... can we say beautiful? And can I just point out that ummmmm, sunset at 9:10pm? LOL</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XffmBtDS3S0/UA2IagZFL8I/AAAAAAAAAbQ/cA9y4YaYIjY/s1600/DSC03329.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XffmBtDS3S0/UA2IagZFL8I/AAAAAAAAAbQ/cA9y4YaYIjY/s320/DSC03329.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">We spontaneously stayed in Eugene, OR for the night after stopping for gas. After 10 hours on the road already, the kids were spent, we were spent, and hotwire's "book a room tonight" was fantastic. We visited the Ducks campus and stopped by their baseball stadium for a local Minor League baseball game. Perfection.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rE0f1PLoga0/UA2IgJQjH3I/AAAAAAAAAbY/ApLrDQCqn-c/s1600/DSC03369.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rE0f1PLoga0/UA2IgJQjH3I/AAAAAAAAAbY/ApLrDQCqn-c/s320/DSC03369.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you haven't been to the Avenue of the Giants in the Redwoods Forest, I HIGHLY recommend it. It's a 32 mile detour off the 101, with various "auto stops" along the way to learn different things about the forest. It was in one word: breathtaking.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VNW_lS7hmdw/UA2IlxlH5II/AAAAAAAAAbg/ZJVYFTDTMHk/s1600/DSC03425.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VNW_lS7hmdw/UA2IlxlH5II/AAAAAAAAAbg/ZJVYFTDTMHk/s320/DSC03425.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Our last big stop was spending the afternoon in one of my favorite little towns, Solvang, CA. I loved this place as a kid and I felt so fortunate to bring my children to it. Here is the Mr. Crazy and I on the carriage ride through town to learn more about the history.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">And of course, we bought the Olsen's famous (and deadly delicious) butter cookies.
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So that's it folks. Successful, crazy, interesting, l.o.n.g, exhausting, but super fun road trip! <span style="background-color: white;">Are you ready to plan one now? I would love to hear your thoughts! You should see the stack of laundry I need to get to so I must get back to being a domestic goddess. Check back in a couple of days for the much requested tutorial on the transformation of my step-daughter's dresser. I teased with pics on Facebook, but I'll put all the details here. Have a blessed day friends!</span></div>
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XOXO,</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-4483329106777259322012-03-07T22:07:00.002-08:002012-03-07T22:07:30.243-08:00I Never Want To Move Again<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh.My.Goodness.</div>
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No matter how prepared I was. No matter how detailed my checklist was. No matter how much I got done in advance...</div>
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<i>Moving sucked monkey toes. </i>Isn't it funny how no one decides to return phone calls or answer your pleas for help on moving day? Not to mention, we literally had two weeks to get it all done.</div>
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But we're here and I'm extremely grateful and in love with our new place. It's a blank, white canvas and I'm beyond ready to paint it and get out as many Pinterest ideas as I can. With that said, here's a couple of teaser pics:</div>
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<b>**New Deck in Backyard**</b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ScONpNUV2Yo/T1hHyPCnM7I/AAAAAAAAAWM/ClEmcWNpgOg/s1600/DSC02697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ScONpNUV2Yo/T1hHyPCnM7I/AAAAAAAAAWM/ClEmcWNpgOg/s320/DSC02697.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>**Front Door - Living Room Area**</b><br />
(Can we just say 'hello exposed wood Cape Cod feel?')</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IYZwWrddnJI/T1hHzmjUalI/AAAAAAAAAWU/LDc-06vgI_0/s1600/DSC02699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IYZwWrddnJI/T1hHzmjUalI/AAAAAAAAAWU/LDc-06vgI_0/s320/DSC02699.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>**Wall of Built Ins - Living Room Area*</b> </div>
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<b>**Staircase (which I l.o.v.e.)**</b><br />
(Can't wait to cover those walls in pictures!)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWgLQtm6PNA/T1hH2J_g14I/AAAAAAAAAWk/6b0PFGB-ttU/s1600/DSC02703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWgLQtm6PNA/T1hH2J_g14I/AAAAAAAAAWk/6b0PFGB-ttU/s320/DSC02703.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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<b>**Boys' Bedroom with their own Balcony**</b> </div>
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<b>**Jordan's Room with more Built Ins**</b> </div>
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So that's about it for right now. I'm currently obsessed with all the bright spring colors: turquoise, coral, lime green, yellows... so you can bet you'll be seeing those in my new place. Let's just say I already have turquoise curtains up in the living room. Ohhhh yes.</div>
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On that note, can someone please buy me a couple of these pillows?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H16TnOp55W0/T1hKuZffQHI/AAAAAAAAAW8/6c7U7MBc-GY/s1600/283726845244265830_3K67pEPm_f.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H16TnOp55W0/T1hKuZffQHI/AAAAAAAAAW8/6c7U7MBc-GY/s400/283726845244265830_3K67pEPm_f.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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They're only $120.00 over at <a href="http://www.rosenberryrooms.com/" target="_blank">RosenberryRooms.com</a>. Come on people, help a girl out. ;)</div>
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So I promise, once the unpacking is complete, start checking back for updates inside AND out. I may dive into the green thumb world after all. </div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-53928845681057244492012-02-20T18:59:00.000-08:002012-02-20T19:45:11.386-08:00A Turning Point in Life... Or Two or Three.<div style="text-align: center;">
A lot of changes have been happening for our family, hence the short MIA period. Let me just break this down for you:</div>
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So, we finally had our first broken bone in the family. It just so happened to be my 5 year old little dare devil... go figure. He was running upstairs to come downstairs, missed the first step and fell straight to the landing. He had a clean break right on his growth plate at the bottom of his humorous. All is healing well and he's adjusted just fine. Better than I would have, but kids are so resilient. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvuP_XSO5Qw/T0MHoHR2ZWI/AAAAAAAAAWE/l75-QgWtwMw/s1600/324528_3280368174914_1438837700_33379266_1225829143_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvuP_XSO5Qw/T0MHoHR2ZWI/AAAAAAAAAWE/l75-QgWtwMw/s640/324528_3280368174914_1438837700_33379266_1225829143_o.jpg" width="382" /></a></div>
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In January, we found out the home we currently rent was being put on the market for sale. I had a feeling this day was coming, but definitely was not prepared for it. I can't believe how much crap we have accumulated in 3 years here! Talk about de-cluttering and garage sale time. By the beginning of February, the house was listed, open houses began and walk thrus with agents were occurring on a regular basis. <strike>I just love keeping 2,600 sqft clean at any given moment of the day for potential buyers</strike>. However, I keep this home in my prayers daily for it to sell because our landlords have been absolute saints and we adore them. </div>
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On February 15th, we signed the papers for a long term lease on a large townhome with TONS of character. Therefore, this blog will most likely turn into a transformation of our new place since I've been given total creative freedom by our new landlord. Yes to paint, moldings, etc. Hope Pinterest is ready for me to conquer a lot on my "Home" board. Hopefully, some of you can get inspiration from my little crazy ideas. And just wait until you see the pictures of the deck in our new backyard. Talk about V.I.E.W. of the city... and yes, we get to stay in Chino Hills even though we looked all over the county. Did you really think I would budge on that one? Sorry, but you just can't beat Chino Valley school district. It's ah-mazing. </div>
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I'm going to go missing for a couple weeks while we get this move finished. I feel like I'm drowning in boxes and deadlines, and my OCD is on overdrive. Here's just one example of post-its covering my kitchen that state: EMPTY; If there are contents, what they are; What date said contents should be packed. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ubxm4JJq_Gk/T0MGEW4voeI/AAAAAAAAAV8/w1ayEndslF0/s1600/471010_3441459962108_1438837700_33435489_450293776_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ubxm4JJq_Gk/T0MGEW4voeI/AAAAAAAAAV8/w1ayEndslF0/s400/471010_3441459962108_1438837700_33435489_450293776_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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But really, I never want to do this again until we buy property in the south once the kids are in college. Mr. Crazy better make me a southern belle someday or else. </div>
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Til next time, Happy Moving!</div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-46103501158263768202012-01-02T10:21:00.000-08:002012-01-02T10:21:16.401-08:00Countless Hours in the Laundry Room = Mini Makeover<div style="text-align: center;">
Are you like me where you feel like you spend endless hours a week in the laundry room? It seems that no matter how much laundry I do, the pile continues to grow. When we lived in our first apartment together, I <b>HATED</b> doing laundry. The complex had a common laundry area so it was always "Are you done using this machine?", "Damn I ran out of quarters.", "This person hasn't been here, I'm removing their stuff.", etc. <b>HATED.</b></div>
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So when we moved into our first home, having the "luxury" of the washer and dryer in it's own room <b>in</b> the house was a definite improvement. I remember one of the first nights where we were able to put the last load into the dryer <b>and then go to bed </b>without worrying about our clothes getting stolen was amazing. </div>
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Being a stay at home mom now, I wonder how I ever got laundry done when I worked. Was I on crack? I must have been because I feel like I'm in my laundry room almost every day... well, 3 kids and 1 Mr. Crazy definitely contributes to that. ;)</div>
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One day, as I'm loading towels, I looked around and thought, "Bleh." There are so many cute <i>and cheap</i> ideas out there for making over laundry rooms. What the heck was I waiting for???</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OGQkLkZqqQ/TwHykZO7OBI/AAAAAAAAAUY/2DOUoMMsrRQ/s1600/DSC02534.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OGQkLkZqqQ/TwHykZO7OBI/AAAAAAAAAUY/2DOUoMMsrRQ/s640/DSC02534.1.jpg" width="363" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>***drum roll please***</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_8Pb4TOsJk/TwHzTUQq41I/AAAAAAAAAVI/BEN2WNGYVzE/s1600/DSC02546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_8Pb4TOsJk/TwHzTUQq41I/AAAAAAAAAVI/BEN2WNGYVzE/s400/DSC02546.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I found these pictures at the Dollar Tree. Yes, please.</div>
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Do you like my little lost and found signs? We have a real problem with that Sock monster in our house, so it's a great way to keep track of missing pairs. I'll put up a tutorial of it later this week.
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Then a simple shower rod (yes, shower rod) and curtains pulled back with ribbons complete the look.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCvErcLGuO4/TwHzeilGwTI/AAAAAAAAAVs/ICXBly0-soU/s1600/DSC02551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCvErcLGuO4/TwHzeilGwTI/AAAAAAAAAVs/ICXBly0-soU/s400/DSC02551.JPG" width="227" /></a></div>
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I found this sign on Pinterest and decided to recreate it using words printed on tissue paper and mod-podging it onto a canvas. Yes, that really works!</div>
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And seriously, the "Iron... Ha Ha" part is sooooo me. Mr. Crazy always asks if I'm in a fight with my iron. The answer is <b><i>yes.</i></b></div>
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<b>Total Mini Makeover Cost: $6.</b></div>
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I know it's not much, but it makes me feel MUCH happier when I'm in that small space.</div>
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What do you think? Hopefully, this can give you some inspiration to make over a small space of your own with minimal materials.</div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-56905492419365665922011-12-13T19:03:00.000-08:002011-12-13T19:09:51.977-08:00Recent Adventures with Sneaky the Elf<div style="text-align: center;">
Boy has Sneaky been fun this year! Even though there are those moments at 11:30 at night when Mr. Crazy and I look at each other half asleep asking "did you move the elf"? But the second the kids find him in the morning make the late night adventures worth it... especially since I'm one who doesn't just like to move our elf... I like to create a scene of what he froze doing.</div>
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So without further ado... here is a continuation of our Sneaky Elf on the Shelf pictures:</div>
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Do you have an Elf on a Shelf? Where has yours been spotted in the mornings? I would l.o.v.e. to hear your ideas!</div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-47677565914028548912011-12-11T15:44:00.001-08:002011-12-13T19:09:26.819-08:00Taste the Rainbow<div style="text-align: center;">
Since Pinterest has become the new love of my life (sorry Mr. Crazy), finding ideas (and the time to do them) has become a main objective. Knowing that my birthday is a mere 5 days away but we celebrated last night, I knew I had to try the ever-so-tempting Skittles infused Vodka that I saw on there. I've created my own tutorial... and let's just say, the day and a half wait for the infusion was very well worth it.</div>
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Here is what you will need:</div>
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Vodka (6 ounces per bottle) - don't skimp on this step... buy Smirnoff or better.</div>
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5 empty water bottles</div>
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2 bags of skittles</div>
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Coffee filters</div>
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5 containers (I didn't have clear jars or flasks, so plastic containers sufficed.)</div>
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Funnel (because they make everything easier)</div>
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First step is separate the Skittles by color.</div>
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Then fill each water bottle with approximately 6 ounces of Vodka. <strike>Take a shot if you feel the need.</strike> Stay sober.</div>
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Put each set of colors into separate bottles and shake shake shake like crazy. The more shakin, the better.</div>
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Don't these look super pretty so far???... just wait until you taste it!</div>
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Let sit overnight so the candies can dissolve more. And if you want, shake a bit more before going to bed. I told you shakin is good. ;)</div>
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The next day, you will need to filter out some white sugary foam that forms at the top of each bottle. I simply put a coffee filter in a funnel and filtered that way. This process takes a little while so the more funnels you have to "multi-filter", the better.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i>Then voila! You have Skittles flavored Vodka!!!</i></span></div>
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I put these in our freezer to chill prior to the party. You can mix it with Sprite, Mountain Dew, Ginger Ale. Have it on the rocks for all I care. Just drink responsibly... and taste the rainbow! We sure did.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;"><i>Who knew Skittles + Vodka could be so awesome?</i></span></div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-74095994284631956862011-12-03T16:25:00.001-08:002011-12-03T16:54:47.752-08:00Today = Baking Like Crazy<div style="text-align: center;">
With the exception of a couple hours spent at a loud pizza place for my son's soccer banquet, I have been in the kitchen since 8am baking away. Being a recent SAHM, I'm trying to get my baking business off the ground so at home is where I can stay... for good.</div>
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I am participating in a Christmas boutique in the Los Angeles area tomorrow so I'm working on four orders of Monkey Bread, two dozen Mochaccino Cupcakes, two dozen Sugar & Spice Cupcakes and last but not least, my super yummy Hot Chocolate Cookies. It's ok... you can drool.<wipe away="" drool="" now=""></wipe></div>
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So while my cupcakes are in the oven, I just wanted to quickly update how our Elf on the Shelf, Sneaky, was doing. He sure is a mischievous little elf. Here is what he has been up to:</div>
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It's been so much fun in the morning to watch my kids run around looking for where he is... and even better when they actually find him. </div>
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Linking my previous post to the following party!</div>
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<a href="http://www.classifiedmom.com/2011/12/sunday-showcase-link-up-your-child.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20ClassifiedMom%20(Classified:%20Mom)">Sunday Showcase</a></div>
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Check out her page - she has soooo many great ideas!</div>
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Happy December 3rd!... and Happy More Baking to me!</div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-47915918845658788892011-11-30T20:36:00.000-08:002011-12-03T16:53:34.501-08:00Elf on the Shelf - "Sneaky"<div style="text-align: center;">
Today, November 30, 2011, we welcomed a new member to our family... our own Elf on the Shelf. I have been wanting to do this for a couple of years now and felt the kids were very ready for "him" this year. So I bought the set at Barnes and Nobles and created little personalized letters for the kids.</div>
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I built "him" up all week long and boy were the kids excited. They kept talking about how they were going to find him, what crazy things he was going to do, how good they were going to behave... yes, let's see how long that one lasts.</div>
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So tonight, the doorbell rang and on our doorstep was the book:</div>
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*props to Mr. Crazy for running around the house so quickly*</div>
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I opened the door and told the kids that there was a "special guest" at our door... <i>they knew right away and came hurdling down the stairs screaming with excitement.</i> I told them the book meant that he was in the house somewhere and they needed to find him! So the search began under beds, in the bathrooms, on a shelf (ha ha get it?)... but alas, he was hiding with the Christmas presents:</div>
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I can't even begin to tell you how hard it was for them not to touch him. It was quite hilarious if you ask me. They grabbed their letters and treats and read them aloud. Their little faces... I can't get over them. Filled with so much joy and excitement. I could barely take pictures. </div>
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So Mr. Crazy sat down with them and read them the Elf on the Shelf story so that they would understand he reports to Santa every night while they're sleeping and that if they touch him, his magic goes away. </div>
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<i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Welcome to our family, Sneaky. I plan on having lots of fun moving you around and helping the kids find you in the mornings. Hopefully, you'll be quite an incentive for my children to behave a bit more... I will be forever grateful.</span></b></i></div>
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I hope you Mommies out there try this, too. I really love how much fun my kids are already having with it... and when they're happy, I'm happy.<br />
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Linking up at:<br />
<a href="http://www.classifiedmom.com/2011/12/sunday-showcase-link-up-your-child.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ClassifiedMom+%28Classified%3A+Mom%29">Sunday Showcase</a></div>
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XOXO</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-85963854783630450952011-11-28T18:02:00.000-08:002011-11-28T18:02:09.681-08:00Did you miss me?<div style="text-align: center;">I've missed blogging so I'm back at it again. Go figure. Hopefully, I can stick with it this time, because I did in fact, miss it. I think I was seriously delusional to believe working full time, 3 kids and their activities, tending to Mr. Crazy, plus being crafty enough to take pictures and post tutorials each and every time, was a good idea. So here's the new story:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I <b>was</b> working full time. Have you ever seen the movie "Devil Wears Prada"? Yeah, I worked for the male version of Miranda. Setting my alarm clock for 2am to make phone calls internationally for him. Always at his wife's beck and call. Running around like crazy. Not to mention, being blamed for everything under the sun. I not only assisted him, but also the CFO <b>and</b> I took on the accounting for all aircraft located at our jet center. I wasn't busy or anything. However, what started out as lower back pain turned into hospitalization for symptoms of a heart attack... I'm 28 people. h.e.a.r.t. a.t.t.a.c.k. Seeing my kids in tears over seeing me hooked up to machines pretty much did me in on that one. Luckily, the company conveniently "dissolved" my position after my bed rest was over so now I'm one happy stay at home mommy and completely off all medications used to get me through my days. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So I'm back and motivated more than ever... can we say thank you, Pinterest? I used to think surfing blog world was an obsession... hello glass of wine and what's like 100 blogs on one page! I have so many ideas for this Christmas season, plus the Holidays are just so much fun to post about.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving. We sure did. Gobble Gobble.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JyM35kQ3DUA/TtQ8c7mjlRI/AAAAAAAAAOU/F1zCON8e1f8/s1600/335007_2756750924810_1438837700_33157850_501697024_o.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JyM35kQ3DUA/TtQ8c7mjlRI/AAAAAAAAAOU/F1zCON8e1f8/s320/335007_2756750924810_1438837700_33157850_501697024_o.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">XOXO</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-24180350745929782722011-03-02T21:41:00.000-08:002011-03-02T21:41:15.000-08:00"What I LOVE Wednesday"<div style="text-align: center;">After a crazy morning of getting myself and two children out the door, I get to hear two little voices sing this song from the backseat:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cHHqcPnbo7o/TW8nT8v0nPI/AAAAAAAAAL8/z7Ruvm-uI_U/s1600/Taylor-Swift-Never-Grow-Up-My-FanMade-Single-Cover-anichu90-16542365-600-600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cHHqcPnbo7o/TW8nT8v0nPI/AAAAAAAAAL8/z7Ruvm-uI_U/s320/Taylor-Swift-Never-Grow-Up-My-FanMade-Single-Cover-anichu90-16542365-600-600.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Then, to have my four year pinkie promise me that he would stay four forever (and I could stay 28 forever) melted my heart. GREAT start to my morning.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">American Idol top 24 have been announced and now the performances have begun. Lauren Alaina is going to win this season... just sayin.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-M4MlEHe9cmU/TW8nTVXce1I/AAAAAAAAAL0/5DGdAeQiBFk/s1600/AI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-M4MlEHe9cmU/TW8nTVXce1I/AAAAAAAAAL0/5DGdAeQiBFk/s1600/AI.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-f-j0TcNVRXo/TW8nTW5pLfI/AAAAAAAAAL4/LwEKi8HC5Kg/s1600/lauren-alaina-american-idol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-f-j0TcNVRXo/TW8nTW5pLfI/AAAAAAAAAL4/LwEKi8HC5Kg/s320/lauren-alaina-american-idol.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
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</div>My husband knows just how to make my day better. Yes, these funfetti fudge brownies are an evil goodness. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gewk85vc4zA/TW8nTNL-2zI/AAAAAAAAALw/rOs2SelmiD8/s1600/5150000285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gewk85vc4zA/TW8nTNL-2zI/AAAAAAAAALw/rOs2SelmiD8/s320/5150000285.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Finally, the best ending to my day: reading with my son. I can't wait to finish dinner and plop down on the couch next to him. (Obviously not him and I in the picture below.) He's grown so much and is one step away from being bumped up to 2nd grade Accelerated Reading. So.Very.Proud.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TnPL7nLQsC8/TW8nSboyucI/AAAAAAAAALs/BY5SQyGj0jI/s1600/42-18051309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TnPL7nLQsC8/TW8nSboyucI/AAAAAAAAALs/BY5SQyGj0jI/s320/42-18051309.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Those are this week's Wednesday loves... what are yours?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">XOXO</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-38013626992678496542011-02-28T19:06:00.000-08:002011-02-28T19:06:51.539-08:00Mingling, Cupcakes and My First Feature!Happy Monday Blogland! Wow has it been a very crazy and hectic day at work for me. Went by fast so I definitely can't complain.<br />
I woke up this morning and checked my dashboard before work to discover that I had been featured at none other than the fabulous 504 Main! <br />
<a href="http://www.504main.com/"><img alt="504 Main" src=" http://i883.photobucket.com/albums/ac35/Holly7081/Grab_button_150-1-3.jpg" /></a><br />
What an honor! She featured my chalkboard vases project, so if you need any inspiration, you can check it out here: <a href="http://thatcrazymomoverthere.blogspot.com/2011/02/chalkboard-vases.html">Chalkboard Vase Project</a><br />
Definitely a great way to start my day. Thanks so much Holly!<br />
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I wanted to share that I made Pink Champagne Cupcakes the other day - totally delish. Except <i>very</i> sweet and you can definitely taste the champagne... so if you're good with that, you should try them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JIyzz8ybTSI/TWxhQBXx4mI/AAAAAAAAALU/AJb_AuRHZvk/s1600/DSC01327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JIyzz8ybTSI/TWxhQBXx4mI/AAAAAAAAALU/AJb_AuRHZvk/s320/DSC01327.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-10PwD5RreRM/TWxhQdAtzSI/AAAAAAAAALY/eOktQKSFLn8/s1600/DSC01328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-10PwD5RreRM/TWxhQdAtzSI/AAAAAAAAALY/eOktQKSFLn8/s320/DSC01328.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The frosting also has champagne in it so beware... it's quite <s>so addictive you can't put them down</s> yummy.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SyqzEuwXags/TWxhRANu02I/AAAAAAAAALg/utsFoYhiIh8/s1600/DSC01330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SyqzEuwXags/TWxhRANu02I/AAAAAAAAALg/utsFoYhiIh8/s320/DSC01330.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ijrZnmvQzg8/TWxhRq4yotI/AAAAAAAAALo/YLqPEqK1yEU/s1600/DSC01332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ijrZnmvQzg8/TWxhRq4yotI/AAAAAAAAALo/YLqPEqK1yEU/s320/DSC01332.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>You can find the recipe here: <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/pink-champagne-cupcakes/26f6f790-0852-4bfc-8f73-8d4cfc8cf496">Betty Crocker Pink Champagne Cupcakes</a><br />
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Well kids' homework is complete, dinner is consumed, so you can now find me snuggled on the couch and blog hopping over at:<br />
<a href="http://www.kdbuggie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1044.photobucket.com/albums/b441/kshisley/minglemondayblogbutton-2.png" /></a><br />
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Hope to see you there! Mingle away!<br />
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XOXO<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-71882522199806393672011-02-27T10:04:00.000-08:002011-02-27T10:04:23.252-08:00Disneyland SurprisePlease forgive the delay in posting... that flu bug I got hit with a couple of weeks ago came back with a true vengeance on Tuesday of this week. Hey, at least it waited until <i>after</i> Disneyland. :) Regardless, I had 103 degree fever, a cough that won't stop, body aches, chills, yada yada yada. <s>So much fun!</s><br />
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But here it is... the Disneyland surprise post.<br />
<drumroll please="">....................................................</drumroll><br />
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I brought the boys into my room Monday morning and gave them this card:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MgHMo5eBmRA/TWqLSiXUi7I/AAAAAAAAAKw/TQhZC8kZ8Po/s1600/DSC01334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MgHMo5eBmRA/TWqLSiXUi7I/AAAAAAAAAKw/TQhZC8kZ8Po/s320/DSC01334.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It says: Landon and Cameron, I can't wait to see you today at Disneyland. Love, Mickey Mouse<br />
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Their reaction on video isn't working on here, but let's just say, <i>NOT</i> the one I was expecting. No jumping up and down excitement until they realized (and after much explanation from me) that we were going right then. Cameron thought the surprise was McDonald's! And then wanted to play Wii instead! Seriously, McDonald's and Wii take priority over a surprise trip to Disneyland? Shoot me now. But it definitely didn't ruin the day. We had such a blast!<br />
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We started off at California Adventure: went on Tower of Terror (yes, all three of us... Cameron didn't really know what was going to happen and he met the height requirement), then saw Ms. Cassie in Aladdin. She plays Jasmine. She even had us do a "meet and greet" after the show! So awesome!<br />
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Then we made our way over to Disneyland and spent the rest of the day there. It started to get really crowded because of it being a Monday Holiday, but that didn't stop us from having a great time. We ended the day with Space Mountain, and boy do I have the BEST picture from the ride. It's the one that the ride takes as you're on it, and since the roller coaster is completely pitch dark, I couldn't see Cameron's face while sitting next to me. But when I saw the snapshot on the screen after we were finished, I could not stop laughing. It is poster child terrified! LOL But they did great, and I was so proud of how brave they were. It's currently on my desk at work, so check back in a couple days when I can post it.<br />
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Here are some things I learned on our date day:<br />
1) I loathe the chains or ropes that make up the lines. No matter what, your child will ALWAYS play with them paying no attention to who's butt, leg, or child they are hitting.<br />
2) Even if you are obviously by yourself with two children pushing a double stroller, PEOPLE WILL NOT MOVE FOR YOU. I could be pushing the kids up a hill and yet I, get that <i>I</i>, had to move out of the way for teenagers and/or other people coming down. About the third or fourth time of my stroller wheels getting caught in the parade tracks, I stopped moving and just started running into people. I even told Cameron to stick his feet out. Yup, I did that. Can you blame me?<br />
3) The healthy food stands in the park cost 50% less than all the junk food stands! What the heck?!?! I'm so lucky that I packed lunches and snacks, but I'm even luckier that I have kids that choose apples and bananas over churros and cotton candy.<br />
4) People in line like to become your best friend. Sorry, but I don't feel like learning your life story while I'm trying to stop my children from hitting people with the chains.<br />
5) Walking past the bakery on Main Street on your way out is a must. Going inside and waiting in the long line to get a baked good is a must. Keeping your children in the stroller while you're waiting is a must. Mmmmmm I can still taste the snickerdoodle.<br />
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All in all, best.day.ever. I will never forget that day of craziness, excitement and pure joy. A big thank you to our dear friend, Ms. Cassie for making the day possible. It will be a day I cherish forever.<br />
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Happy Sunday to you all. Enjoy the rest of your weekend and happy blogging!<br />
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XOXO<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-15929254700372273122011-02-17T19:52:00.000-08:002011-02-17T19:52:38.727-08:00One Insane WeekThis week in one word: INSANE. Undeniably insane. <br />
Work has been overwhelming. And even though I've been able to sit down after the kids go to sleep and work on some crafts (aka blanket, jewelry, headbands and bows), I just haven't had the energy to lay them out, make them look presentable, take pictures and link up to parties. So I am so very sorry. But I'll catch my breath soon.<br />
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Couple of fun things:<br />
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The hubby, Mr. Crazy, upgraded my wedding band set for Valentine's Day. I was shocked! It's on my finger now and I can't stop looking at it:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8BuRGsb-38/TV3p7aC8III/AAAAAAAAAKs/yPFJkr287tA/s1600/ring1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8BuRGsb-38/TV3p7aC8III/AAAAAAAAAKs/yPFJkr287tA/s1600/ring1.jpg" /></a></div>Ummm yeah, I'm in love. :)<br />
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Landon has a dance competition at the Disneyland Hotel this weekend and we're so excited for him. I love seeing my little man up on stage... and he loves it when people cheer for him. Especially in hip hop.<br />
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Then on Monday, for some reason my work decided to honor the President's Holiday. Not complaining, just shocked. So....<br />
A friend is blessing me and my two little boys by signing us into Disneyland!!!! I made them a poster to open on Monday morning that reads: <i>Landon and Cameron, Can't wait to see you today at Disneyland! Love, Mickey Mouse</i>. They have absolutely no clue and I cannot wait to surprise them! A video will be coming for sure, you can count on it! I get to have a Mommy-boys date day and I couldn't be more thrilled. I'll be taking pictures like crazy. :)<br />
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Hope everyone has a fantastic-incredible-exciting-crazy weekend!<br />
I'll be blog hopping at:<br />
<a href="http://www.smartandtrendymoms.com/search/label/socialparade" target="_blank"><img alt="Smart and Trendy Moms" border="0" src="http://i778.photobucket.com/albums/yy64/smartandtrendymoms/Untitled-1.png" /></a><br />
Come join the hopping-commenting fun!<br />
<br />
XOXO<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-437650381082621532011-02-13T18:45:00.000-08:002011-02-13T18:45:18.448-08:00Valentines Fudge SquaresWhether you love Valentine's Day or not, one thing is always good... CHOCOLATE. And I'm talking fudge.... made from scratch. Mmmmmm. Best part, it's the easiest thing in the world to make! No baking, just microwaving. Seriously.<br />
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Here is what you will need:<br />
1 1/4 cup semi sweet morsels<br />
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk<br />
Dash of salt<br />
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1 1/4 cup white chocolate morsels<br />
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk<br />
Dash of salt<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLA4ZdQcriw/TViTuLB0QpI/AAAAAAAAAKM/-NMF0tS1RUw/s1600/DSC01213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLA4ZdQcriw/TViTuLB0QpI/AAAAAAAAAKM/-NMF0tS1RUw/s320/DSC01213.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cA-fGOFUIu0/TViTvtjSdoI/AAAAAAAAAKU/rzxv93JWUXg/s1600/DSC01215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cA-fGOFUIu0/TViTvtjSdoI/AAAAAAAAAKU/rzxv93JWUXg/s320/DSC01215.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Mix the semisweet morsels with the milk and salt, melt in microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring between each. This only took me two 30 second go arounds in the microwave before it was smooth. Spread into an 8x8 dish lined with foil.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bGdJXM1spgc/TViTu3abqPI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/Avp1M16-gXA/s1600/DSC01214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bGdJXM1spgc/TViTu3abqPI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/Avp1M16-gXA/s320/DSC01214.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zyMCFqbHGM4/TViTwLdvvpI/AAAAAAAAAKY/ZrOmgq52Cok/s1600/DSC01217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zyMCFqbHGM4/TViTwLdvvpI/AAAAAAAAAKY/ZrOmgq52Cok/s320/DSC01217.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Repeat with the white chocolate morsels, but melt at 20 second intervals instead of 30. Again, this only took two 20 second go arounds. Spread on top of chocolate. Cut squares with a knife while the fudge is still warm and top off with a conversation heart candy. Refrigerate <u>uncovered</u> for at least 2 hours.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oH046idb-8Q/TViTw13N5qI/AAAAAAAAAKc/KNi6gTljIhg/s1600/DSC01218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oH046idb-8Q/TViTw13N5qI/AAAAAAAAAKc/KNi6gTljIhg/s320/DSC01218.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o5F7FlOH5s/TViTxoYpH6I/AAAAAAAAAKg/_2fFmMxe0mM/s1600/DSC01220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o5F7FlOH5s/TViTxoYpH6I/AAAAAAAAAKg/_2fFmMxe0mM/s320/DSC01220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Remove the fudge by pulling the foil completely out. Re-cut gently to remove fudge from foil. And ta-da! You've got adorable fudge squares for Valentine's Day! I put them in heart cupcake liners and Valentine's bag just because I can. ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWtApO4yc8g/TViTyM-ow7I/AAAAAAAAAKk/z-5fou0Bxq4/s1600/DSC01223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWtApO4yc8g/TViTyM-ow7I/AAAAAAAAAKk/z-5fou0Bxq4/s320/DSC01223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TC9DIiTAlY/TViTyyJPOSI/AAAAAAAAAKo/DonOhvmrPnk/s1600/DSC01224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TC9DIiTAlY/TViTyyJPOSI/AAAAAAAAAKo/DonOhvmrPnk/s320/DSC01224.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
They're to die for. And to give away so I don't gain 15 pounds. Hope you enjoy!<br />
This week's projects consist of all things blue and green to represent Cutting Edge Dance Center... next competition is this coming Sunday at the Disneyland hotel. I'm making jewelry, bows, blankets... it's an obsession and I can't help myself. Yup, it's one of those moments where I'm definitely "That Crazy Mom Over There". What can I say, I'll always support my kids loudly and proudly. Can you blame me? They're crazy adorable!<br />
Happy Sunday everyone... and Happy Blogging!<br />
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XOXO<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-6435221500952654552011-02-11T21:10:00.000-08:002011-02-13T14:43:16.551-08:00Chalkboard Vases!Ok this was seriously so much fun and super easy to do... the only hard part... being p.a.t.i.e.n.t.<br />
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I got three different size vases at the Dollar Tree and Chalkboard paint from Home Depot:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HF91l66Fqno/TVYTKHIMTpI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/9u8EldhhFJ0/s1600/DSC01178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HF91l66Fqno/TVYTKHIMTpI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/9u8EldhhFJ0/s320/DSC01178.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I painted in vertical strokes for the first coat. Then waited three, count it t.h.r.e.e. hours before applying the second in horizontal strokes. Finally, I waited an entire day before putting on the final coat. Glossy finish before drying:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HP8-Oun9_2c/TVYTektkRKI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/KMjtPSlsylA/s1600/DSC01180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HP8-Oun9_2c/TVYTektkRKI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/KMjtPSlsylA/s320/DSC01180.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Are we liking the Michael's newspaper? Ok just had to throw that in. :)<br />
The waiting got even worse. I waited three WHOLE DAYS before painting on red frames/designs and once those were dry, it was <i>chalking time!!!</i> Man was I excited. And when I'm happy, my household is happy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5aJia1vWS8/TVYTfRvFUrI/AAAAAAAAAKA/j4uxG-7iM6I/s1600/DSC01185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5aJia1vWS8/TVYTfRvFUrI/AAAAAAAAAKA/j4uxG-7iM6I/s320/DSC01185.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vfolkakzwis/TVYTgF0yk8I/AAAAAAAAAKE/KrR7Dut_BeE/s1600/DSC01188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vfolkakzwis/TVYTgF0yk8I/AAAAAAAAAKE/KrR7Dut_BeE/s320/DSC01188.JPG" width="180" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-87ZCerZIzbA/TVYTgvQmASI/AAAAAAAAAKI/MMOSlIyrBCQ/s1600/DSC01189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-87ZCerZIzbA/TVYTgvQmASI/AAAAAAAAAKI/MMOSlIyrBCQ/s320/DSC01189.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I made them "Valentine-ish", cause you know, duh, isn't everyone doing V-day stuff right now? LOL You better believe I will be changing these up constantly. <br />
I want to give a HUGE thank you to <a href="http://www.domestically-speaking.com/2011/02/pottery-barnish-chalkboard-vases.html">Domestically Speaking</a> for the project idea. I ADORE my new multi-purpose vases.<br />
Linking up to:<br />
<a border="0" href="http://itsacraftylife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1133.photobucket.com/albums/m585/kimaar1/birdbutton4.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.504main.com/"><img alt="504 Main" src=" http://i883.photobucket.com/albums/ac35/Holly7081/Grab_button_150-1-3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.froufroudecor.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://i1004.photobucket.com/albums/af165/froufroudecor/fabfridayfind-1.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<center style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.iamalongfortheride.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i778.photobucket.com/albums/yy62/aftr/party.jpg" /></a></center><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.iamonly1woman.blogspot.com//"><img border="0" src="http://i918.photobucket.com/albums/ad29/retrolove80/AVisiontoRememberMcklinkyButton.png" /></a></center><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/search/label/Link%20Parties" target="_blank"><img alt="UndertheTableandDreaming" border="0" src="http://i693.photobucket.com/albums/vv298/theliebertfamily/party.png" /></a> <br />
<br />
XOXO<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-82013119806785207642011-02-09T20:30:00.000-08:002011-02-09T20:36:29.650-08:00An Everything Post - Food, Cake and Projects!I'm feeling better! Which means lots to do and so little time to do it all!<br />
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Where to begin? Ok first, here are some food pics from our Superbowl Party. After all was said and done, we had 42 people over for the big game, two tv's going inside and out, jacuzzi time, and PLENTY of munchies!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Homemade Cinnamon Chips</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-asgZsS4GFpg/TVNmClYqgiI/AAAAAAAAAJY/0vqiK3H4BCw/s1600/DSC01173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-asgZsS4GFpg/TVNmClYqgiI/AAAAAAAAAJY/0vqiK3H4BCw/s320/DSC01173.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Meatballs in Tomato Sauce for "Turnovers"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5CRb4YHFAkE/TVNmDU6H_HI/AAAAAAAAAJc/evVyEkkmLUM/s1600/DSC01174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5CRb4YHFAkE/TVNmDU6H_HI/AAAAAAAAAJc/evVyEkkmLUM/s320/DSC01174.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Look at all the food!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3LffSpFsgY/TVNmEDkg_lI/AAAAAAAAAJg/UsrHw1_zySY/s1600/DSC01176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3LffSpFsgY/TVNmEDkg_lI/AAAAAAAAAJg/UsrHw1_zySY/s320/DSC01176.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>A few posts ago, I posted about the "jazz" cake I made. But I was finally able to upload better pictures of it, so here you go!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Triple Chocolate Cake, Strawberry Filling, Buttercream Frosting, Fondant Pieces</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHEdbxNQ2QU/TVNmwS3UWPI/AAAAAAAAAJk/NVjF4HYVaYI/s1600/DSC01168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHEdbxNQ2QU/TVNmwS3UWPI/AAAAAAAAAJk/NVjF4HYVaYI/s320/DSC01168.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-av-nNDf-kDk/TVNmynkKwpI/AAAAAAAAAJo/6bvgBmHzfQg/s1600/DSC01170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-av-nNDf-kDk/TVNmynkKwpI/AAAAAAAAAJo/6bvgBmHzfQg/s320/DSC01170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MHy6DFiTZF8/TVNmzKlrvcI/AAAAAAAAAJs/4e7xson_MUQ/s1600/DSC01171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MHy6DFiTZF8/TVNmzKlrvcI/AAAAAAAAAJs/4e7xson_MUQ/s320/DSC01171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I'd really love some feedback. I definitely had a lot of fun doing this one.</div><div style="text-align: left;">On to one of the projects for this week. I read a project at <a href="http://www.domestically-speaking.com/">Domestically Speaking</a> on using chalkboard paint on vases or old empty glass bottles. So I started it this week! Here's the progress... final pictures to come for some party links this weekend:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8w-MYeL6tLA/TVNn4l2D2sI/AAAAAAAAAJw/8Q2McmW_qUE/s1600/DSC01178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8w-MYeL6tLA/TVNn4l2D2sI/AAAAAAAAAJw/8Q2McmW_qUE/s320/DSC01178.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bQGrJVlO04g/TVNn5NZ-DYI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/Ah6Z9e-708Q/s1600/DSC01181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bQGrJVlO04g/TVNn5NZ-DYI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/Ah6Z9e-708Q/s320/DSC01181.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They definitely take a few coats, so be patient, like 3 hours in between coats patient. Then 3 days before chalking on patient. I hate being patient. But I WILL wait. The finished product will be worth it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm also working on one of those "no sew" blankets in my son's dance studio's colors. Go green and blue! Let's just say this Mama is not going to be cold in a theater or ballroom anymore. :) I'll post pics when I'm finished with that as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">XOXO</div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-54819024879492733172011-02-05T10:11:00.000-08:002011-02-09T08:50:57.146-08:00Dayquil + Coffee = Finished ProjectSo I finally found the strength to finish our headboard wall with many thanks to Dayquil and McDonald's coffee. :) Not to mention, I actually got 12 hours of sleep last night since my hubby sent me to bed at 7pm. Good hubby.<br />
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Well, here it is. I finished putting up the decal above our headboard. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">In process:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2OYpupFQI/AAAAAAAAAJM/bILYoelpDoA/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2OYpupFQI/AAAAAAAAAJM/bILYoelpDoA/s1600/2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It takes a lot of arm strength to get that up there... our walls are textured so it doesn't go on as smoothly as you'd might think.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And now the result:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2OY8LfaQI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/ZVjJz1woO4s/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2OY8LfaQI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/ZVjJz1woO4s/s1600/3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2OYLdv6cI/AAAAAAAAAJI/BEe_yV1k-SY/s1600/2+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2OYLdv6cI/AAAAAAAAAJI/BEe_yV1k-SY/s1600/2+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I LOVE it. What do you think?</div><div style="text-align: left;">Now here is my bedding. I need and <i>want</i> to keep the white walls, but I'm debating on changing the white fabric that hangs above our bed. Should I tie in the chocolate brown instead? Change the color of the white sconces? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2QNl0HuCI/AAAAAAAAAJU/PH7u0WGkmSE/s1600/2+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TU2QNl0HuCI/AAAAAAAAAJU/PH7u0WGkmSE/s1600/2+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Please ladies, I need some inspiration. I can only think so far right now. LOL Time to rest up and clean the house for Superbowl tomorrow. Yes, our home is the gathering location for 30 of our closest friends and family. I cannot wait to see everyone! And I have lots of recipes in mind, so in the kitchen, I will be. :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
I linked my decal project to:<br />
<a border="0" href="http://itsacraftylife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1133.photobucket.com/albums/m585/kimaar1/birdbutton4.jpg" /></a><br />
Check out her page, it's amazing!<br />
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And:<br />
<a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/search/label/Link%20Parties" target="_blank"><img alt="UndertheTableandDreaming" border="0" src="http://i693.photobucket.com/albums/vv298/theliebertfamily/party.png" /></a><br />
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And:<br />
<a href="http://youngnester.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g372/LABleedsBlue/YN10bucktuesbutton.jpg" /></a><br />
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<br />
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It's Party time people! :)<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Saturday everyone. Happy Dayquil to me. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">XOXO</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-90523039021671542522011-02-03T20:17:00.000-08:002011-02-03T20:20:49.627-08:00All About DecalsWhen you live in a rental home, you need to get crafty with the way you decorate. To me, nothing is better than removable wall art. And accessories. :)<br />
I posted earlier this week how I'm stumped as to how to vamp up our master bedroom. I will post pictures tomorrow on the start of this project. I've had a wall decal that says: <i>We do not remember days, we remember Moments.</i> I've been waiting for the right place to put this and it dawned on me... duh, above our bed. I started working on it when I got home from work tonight, but since a head cold has consumed my day, I got 1/3 of the way through and had to stop to sit down. So here I am, medicated and on the couch with a million tissues in front of me, updating my blog instead of finishing my headboard wall. *sigh* <br />
So that's it for now. If you ever need a great place for decals, I highly suggest <a href="http://www.dalidecals.com/">Dali Decals</a>. Their stuff is insane!<br />
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And on top of cleaning and prepping my house for our Superbowl Party on Sunday, I'm determined to try the chalkboard paint-vase project that I linked to earlier in the week. I bought the vases, just need to get the paint. This mama is <s>can't sit down, want to jump around</s> excited! <br />
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Goodnight blogworld. Happy coughing, sneezing, best sleep I'm going to get tonight? Riiiight. ;)<br />
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XOXO<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-56986120437820699722011-02-01T12:49:00.000-08:002011-02-01T12:49:31.485-08:00A Quick Lunch Break PostTuesdays are my absolute most <em>insane</em> day at work, so I usually only take about a 15 minutes lunch break, if I even take one. <br />
Well, I've been running around all morning and needed to give my body a rest. So what did I do? Surf blog world of course! And I decided to quickly post the beginning of my February decor at my desk. I get into the spirit of things every where I go... home or office... it really doesn't matter.<br />
I found the mailboxes in the dollar section at Target and a coworker and I decorated them with foam hearts. The hanging heart wreath and blocks are also from the dollar section... I just couldn't resist.<br />
Believe me, with all the inspiration from creative blog women, there WILL be more. But like I said, this is just the start.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUhv7qpNOjI/AAAAAAAAAI4/CQkcqXLzxB8/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" s5="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUhv7qpNOjI/AAAAAAAAAI4/CQkcqXLzxB8/s1600/2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUhv8j1tgMI/AAAAAAAAAI8/dI7zBQDus0A/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" s5="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUhv8j1tgMI/AAAAAAAAAI8/dI7zBQDus0A/s1600/3.jpg" /></a></div>Ok, back to the grind. Oh but before I go, I wanted to link up with the DIY's post today about painting vases with chalkboard paint! Told you I was addicted to the stuff. I am DEFINITELY trying this idea... we have an overabundance of empty wine bottles at our house, so there will be some painting going on. :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" s5="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUhwhTaocSI/AAAAAAAAAJA/9FE-pTOWRgw/s320/chalkboard-vases-4.jpg" width="320" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thediyclub.com/2011/02/maryanns-chalkboard-vases/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DiyClubInc+%28DIY+Club+inc%29">DIY Club - Chalkboard Vases</a></div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a fabulous Tuesday everyone! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">PS - I would LOVE to get more followers, since I'm so new at this. Help? Anyone? :)<br />
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XOXO</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUhxg3TYMaI/AAAAAAAAAJE/5jgfbP1kzOE/s1600/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" s5="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUhxg3TYMaI/AAAAAAAAAJE/5jgfbP1kzOE/s1600/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" /></a></div>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-12550305450411427082011-01-30T19:22:00.000-08:002011-01-30T20:28:20.173-08:00Sunday FavoritesI'm extremely new at this "shout out" thing, but my newest addiction is surfing blog world and I can't help but give love to the people that make my mouth drop in awe.<br />
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I would absolutely LOVE to have this in my entry way:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYnCLXBzeI/AAAAAAAAAIk/GzCKrSyByVk/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYnCLXBzeI/AAAAAAAAAIk/GzCKrSyByVk/s320/018.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Major props to Cassie at: <a href="http://primitiveandproper.blogspot.com/2011/01/valentines-entry-and-sneak-peek.html">Primitive & Proper</a><br />
It looks so simple, yet elegant, yet earthy. And I especially like the play on pink this time of year. Can I just say how adorable the backing is on the shelves? I'm inspired. :)<br />
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I found similar mailboxes in the dollar section at Target, but the stands add the extra touch that they need. LOVE it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYn_RMuk8I/AAAAAAAAAIo/5_WjNFdzQoc/s1600/Valentines+Day+Mailboxes+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYn_RMuk8I/AAAAAAAAAIo/5_WjNFdzQoc/s320/Valentines+Day+Mailboxes+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>There is a tutorial at <a href="http://craftsandsutch.blogspot.com/2011/01/valentines-day-mailboxes.html">Crafts & Sutch</a> and I highly recommend it.<br />
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Ok seriously, can these Tic Tac boxes get any cuter?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYojXMH_CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/u2XJaUKR6uc/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYojXMH_CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/u2XJaUKR6uc/s320/012.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><br />
I think not! Thank you so much, <a href="http://smilemonsters.blogspot.com/2011/01/tic-tac-valentine.html">Smilemonsters</a> for the fabulous idea!<br />
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Now, I've been trying to figure out a cute idea for a chalkboard paint canvas and I think I've found it. I love the four put together.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYpcFiCvzI/AAAAAAAAAIw/oeb6jPGOSqk/s1600/love10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUYpcFiCvzI/AAAAAAAAAIw/oeb6jPGOSqk/s320/love10.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Great idea, <a href="http://ourdailyobsessions.blogspot.com/2011/01/craft-valentines-day-canvas.html">Our Daily Obsessions</a>. There are so many different ideas for this and I love your Valentine's pick!<br />
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Well, that's it for now. My goal for the week is to find inspiration for my master bedroom based off our bedding. I seem to be drawing a HUGE blank on it. I'll post pictures at some point this week, so any feedback is truly appreciated. Hint: Chocolate brown and seagreen colors. Yeah, I'm stuck.<br />
Happy Blogging!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/64/F8341A20C2DEEB23BCA6A28DE979162E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-13583200256892185312011-01-30T13:33:00.000-08:002011-01-30T13:33:25.967-08:00Sunday Wrap-UpWow it's been an incredibly busy week! My cake order for the weekend has been picked up so I can finally breathe and relax. Probably go get my nails done since they are starting to scare me. ;)<br />
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Made two great recipes this week. Monday night consisted of a homemade parmesan sauce with spinach, tossed with angel hair pasta and garlic bread. The sauce is so easy to make, I highly recommend it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXIeeegOI/AAAAAAAAAIU/shxut_md-BY/s1600/168452_1845298339065_1438837700_32133487_4878691_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXIeeegOI/AAAAAAAAAIU/shxut_md-BY/s1600/168452_1845298339065_1438837700_32133487_4878691_n.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Then in honor of "Taco Tuesday", we made grilled chicken tostadas. The recipe calls for a homemade marinade to be refrigerated overnight and boy was it worth the wait. The chicken was just running with the most delicious juices!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXcCqnCCI/AAAAAAAAAIg/rufHzARC37I/s1600/180169_1846981581145_1438837700_32136236_8044983_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXcCqnCCI/AAAAAAAAAIg/rufHzARC37I/s1600/180169_1846981581145_1438837700_32136236_8044983_n.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My most favorite part of the week came yesterday. Landon had his first dance competition and I was just beaming with pride. His dances took High Gold (highest they could get for their division), and then also took 5th and 3rd Overall for the Petitie Division! Watching him on stage brought back so many memories for me... especially when he "secretly" told me he was nervous before he went on. Now he says he loves it and can't wait for the next one. Well don't worry, we have one every month now through July. Thinking of a bank to rob to pay for all of it. LOL Please don't take that literally.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXbqCodnI/AAAAAAAAAIY/u3R4JiuNmPg/s1600/179600_1852842247658_1438837700_32145244_3419224_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXbqCodnI/AAAAAAAAAIY/u3R4JiuNmPg/s1600/179600_1852842247658_1438837700_32145244_3419224_n.jpg" /></a></div>So after a long day, I came home to work on a cake order for my most favorite co-worker. It's her dad's birthday and he loves jazz music and all that it entails. So I made him this cake:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXb2njVNI/AAAAAAAAAIc/yFh1Uh4LWKM/s1600/180118_1855103464187_1438837700_32150561_4867155_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TUXXb2njVNI/AAAAAAAAAIc/yFh1Uh4LWKM/s1600/180118_1855103464187_1438837700_32150561_4867155_n.jpg" /></a></div>I think it's one of my all-time favorites now. What do you think?<br />
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Off to get the nails did and then start on a beef, veggies and barley dinner while watching the Pro Game. Mmmmmmm. Making your mouth water yet?<br />
Happy Sunday!That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2282434514351888677.post-61015151760441439682011-01-24T08:12:00.001-08:002011-01-24T08:12:55.866-08:00"Everything Grilled Salad" and Window-Pane CookiesI've been trying to incorporate a lot of fresh vegetables in my home cooking and making them so yummy, my children cannot resist.<br />
Enter "Everything Grilled Salad" with a homemade pesto vinaigrette sauce. This meal was absolutely delicious! I cut up all the vegetables and while the hubby grilled the veggies and flank steak, I chopped fresh parsley and basil and garlic for the pesto sauce. It really is an easy recipe with a quick clean up... as long as you pull a "Rachel Ray" and keep a "trash bowl" on the side. :) And for the fun of it, we grilled some sausage as well for a little spice.<br />
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Here was the finished product:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TT2hnr4A7_I/AAAAAAAAAIM/uCDEdzkiyoE/s1600/167138_1843465533246_1438837700_32129470_8041016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TT2hnr4A7_I/AAAAAAAAAIM/uCDEdzkiyoE/s1600/167138_1843465533246_1438837700_32129470_8041016_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The tomatoes, squash and zucchini slathered in a pesto vinaigrette was the perfect compliment to the steak and sausage.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's the recipe:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span></div><dl class="dottedRule" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-color: rgb(222, 222, 222); border-top-style: dashed; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 10px;"><dt class="orange smHeading" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: 100; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ingredients</span></dt>
<dd style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><ul style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 202px;"><li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 (1 1/2-pound) beef flank steak, trimmed</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Salt and freshly ground pepper</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4 small summer yellow squash, thinly sliced lengthwise</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4 small zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley leaves</span></li>
</ul><ul style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 202px;"><li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil leaves</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 garlic clove, chopped</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 teaspoon Dijon mustard</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">6 tablespoons olive oil</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1/2 cup chopped red onion (optional)</span></li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">2 cups grape tomatoes, halved</span></li>
</ul></dd></dl><div class="clear" style="clear: both; position: relative;"></div><dl class="dottedRule itemInstructions instructions" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-color: rgb(222, 222, 222); border-top-style: dashed; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; left: -15px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 10px; position: relative; z-index: 1;"><dt class="orange smHeading" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: 100; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Instructions</span></dt>
<dd class="instructionsDd" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 18px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><ol class="instructions" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; left: -15px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;"><li class="liInstructions1 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Heat the grill at the medium-high setting. Sprinkle the steak with salt and pepper to taste. Grill the meat (about 7 to 9 minutes per side on a gas grill for medium rare, longer if you prefer medium or well done). Let the steak cool, then cut it in half lengthwise and slice each half across the grain into thin strips.</span></div></li>
<li class="liInstructions2 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Meanwhile, brush the yellow squash and zucchini with 2 tablespoons of the lemon juice and season it with salt and pepper. Grill the sliced vegetables, turning them once, until tender (about 2 to 3 minutes). Then cut them into thirds.</span></div></li>
<li class="liInstructions3 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">In a food processor, combine the parsley, basil, garlic, Dijon, and remaining tablespoon of lemon juice and blend well. With the motor running, slowly add the oil and blend well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.</span></div></li>
<li class="liInstructions4 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">In a large bowl, combine the steak, squash, zucchini, and onion, if desired. Add the dressing and toss to mix. Sprinkle with more salt and pepper, if desired. Stir in the tomatoes and serve. Makes 6 servings.</span></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></li>
</ol></dd></dl><br />
My kids gobbled the whole thing up so to reward them, I made heart shaped cookies (practicing for Valentine's Day) with a "window-pane" center. I never knew it was possible to melt a Jolly Rancher in the middle of a cookie while it baked, but it works! I'm glad I gave it a trial run because I realized I need to make my own dough rather than save time with a store-bought one. The shape of the cookie just does not hold with the store-bought kind. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TT2jAxfqVuI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/N4NtOkCjhQs/s1600/167859_1843582416168_1438837700_32129711_598891_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7e2R8OUlKlU/TT2jAxfqVuI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/N4NtOkCjhQs/s1600/167859_1843582416168_1438837700_32129711_598891_n.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I wish the centers kept the heart shape, but I'll work on it and let you know. Here is the recipe:<br />
<br />
<dl class="dottedRule" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-color: rgb(222, 222, 222); border-top-style: dashed; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 10px;"><dt class="orange smHeading" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: 100; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Ingredients</dt>
<dd style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><ul style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 202px;"><li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 cup unsalted butter, softened</li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">3/4 cup sugar</li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 large egg</li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
</ul><ul style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 202px;"><li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/3 teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 1/2 cups flour</li>
<li class="bgDot ingredient" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://a.dolimg.com/familyfun/assets/images/mainContent/bgDot7x7.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 5px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Hard candy for cookie center (we used Jolly Ranchers)</li>
</ul></dd></dl><div class="clear" style="clear: both; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; position: relative;"></div><dl class="dottedRule itemInstructions instructions" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-color: rgb(222, 222, 222); border-top-style: dashed; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; left: -15px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 10px; position: relative; z-index: 1;"><dt class="orange smHeading" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: 100; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Instructions</dt>
<dd class="instructionsDd" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 18px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><ol class="instructions" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; left: -15px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;"><li class="liInstructions1 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><b>To make the dough: </b>Using an electric mixer at medium-high speed, cream the butter, gradually adding the sugar. Beat in the egg until evenly mixed, then blend in the vanilla extract and salt.</div></li>
<li class="liInstructions2 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">With a wooden spoon, stir the flour into the creamed ingredients, about one third at a time, until evenly blended. The dough may seem soft, but it will firm up when refrigerated.</div></li>
<li class="liInstructions3 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Divide the dough in half. Flatten each portion into a disk and seal in plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight.</div></li>
<li class="liInstructions4 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><b>To create the cookies: </b>Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Cover a sturdy baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat the foil with cooking spray. Between 2 sheets of waxed paper lightly dusted with flour, roll the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Remove the top sheet.</div></li>
<li class="liInstructions5 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Cut out the cookies with a large cookie cutter. Use a spatula to transfer the shapes to the baking sheet, leaving about an inch between cookies. Remove the centers of the cookies with a smaller cookie cutter. (Save the centers to bake later.)</div></li>
<li class="liInstructions6 orange" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; color: #ab720f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Place a hard candy (we used Jolly Ranchers) in the center of each heart and bake until the cookies start to brown lightly around the edges and the candy is melted, about 8 to 10 minutes. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. To prevent sticking, line your serving plate or tin with waxed paper and place additional waxed paper between layers. Makes 30.</div></li>
</ol></dd></dl><br />
So that's about it. Hope you try the recipe. I don't think you'll be the least bit disappointed. Off to tend to my two sick little men. Staying home today equals lots of extra attention and love from me. What are Moms for right? :)<br />
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Have a beautiful Monday!That Crazy Mom Over Therehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07954563922798156470noreply@blogger.com0