tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39268505769396057082024-03-12T20:37:49.840-04:00D-man & Sassy and their little girl tooa little bit into the going's on around hereMarciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-15728368257287148742011-03-20T13:17:00.003-04:002011-03-20T13:49:07.998-04:00volcano eruptingElla and I attened the Half Pint Hullabaloo last weekend. I think her favorite activity was the station where they mix vinegar with baking soda to make a little volcano. She kept insisting we go back so I told her we would make a super cool volcano at home.<br /><br />We walked in the door and she insisted we get started right away. Thankfully I had already scouted out plans for making a volcano at home.<br /><br />First we made some salt dough...squish, squish<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3PhVUY7TUQ/TYY3M6p5tWI/AAAAAAAAAdg/5wiQZJHZxB4/s1600/IMG_6488.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586213082842641762" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3PhVUY7TUQ/TYY3M6p5tWI/AAAAAAAAAdg/5wiQZJHZxB4/s320/IMG_6488.JPG" /></a><br /><br />And then we formed the salt dough around a baby food jar (we used a stage 2 one that is taller). We made the volcano inside a baking pan, to avoid an overflow mess later.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-izjEgMp_cTc/TYY3NY375wI/AAAAAAAAAdo/0caif9FwjHY/s1600/IMG_6489.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586213090954569474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-izjEgMp_cTc/TYY3NY375wI/AAAAAAAAAdo/0caif9FwjHY/s320/IMG_6489.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dA2u5RHIQzM/TYY3N3diVLI/AAAAAAAAAdw/GguaICQp3hY/s1600/IMG_6492.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586213099165340850" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dA2u5RHIQzM/TYY3N3diVLI/AAAAAAAAAdw/GguaICQp3hY/s320/IMG_6492.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div><br />Next we started adding ingredients. First we put a little water in the jar. Then added some food coloring (red of course). Then we added a few drops of dishwasher detergent because I had read this made a pretty cool effect. Here we are ready to make the explosion!</div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skzE2KT-oqI/TYY3OYxwPgI/AAAAAAAAAd4/yD6xd6Ok6n8/s1600/IMG_6494.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586213108108508674" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skzE2KT-oqI/TYY3OYxwPgI/AAAAAAAAAd4/yD6xd6Ok6n8/s320/IMG_6494.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>First the baking soda...<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wXR7zrzvaCU/TYY3PKVywhI/AAAAAAAAAeA/28dpTT9tqi4/s1600/IMG_6495.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586213121413005842" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wXR7zrzvaCU/TYY3PKVywhI/AAAAAAAAAeA/28dpTT9tqi4/s320/IMG_6495.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>Then the vinegar...<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mYmdGUe0bT8/TYY52qH_BxI/AAAAAAAAAeI/DbuSeAUPhlE/s1600/IMG_6496.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586215998983178002" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mYmdGUe0bT8/TYY52qH_BxI/AAAAAAAAAeI/DbuSeAUPhlE/s320/IMG_6496.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>And then a bunch more baking soda and vinegar.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMmJPHisGbc/TYY525msZRI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/2qL_ZVKjba0/s1600/IMG_6498.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586216003138512146" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMmJPHisGbc/TYY525msZRI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/2qL_ZVKjba0/s320/IMG_6498.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>Dad was in on the action too<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZEE8Uc1SEY/TYY53ZswHcI/AAAAAAAAAeY/Z2X8KJxa8tY/s1600/IMG_6500.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5586216011753856450" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZEE8Uc1SEY/TYY53ZswHcI/AAAAAAAAAeY/Z2X8KJxa8tY/s320/IMG_6500.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The project turned out really well. I was worried we would need to let the salt dough dry, but it was pretty firm so we were able to have the eruption right away. Probably was about an hour start to finish.<br /></div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-18977115423091353012011-02-27T09:38:00.001-05:002011-02-27T09:40:01.972-05:00Big SisterSo excited to share the news...<br /><br />Ella is going to be a big sister!! Her little brother is expected to arrive in June!Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-17250329950133622222010-08-23T18:34:00.005-04:002010-08-23T19:12:38.741-04:00It's been a busy summer!Sorry for being MIA, it has been a very busy summer! Here's a quick recap...<br /><br /><br />In May we went to the zoo.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5UbwozuI/AAAAAAAAAb8/FmL04QCJano/s1600/IMG_5445.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508739423671996130" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5UbwozuI/AAAAAAAAAb8/FmL04QCJano/s320/IMG_5445.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5U5ZwB6I/AAAAAAAAAcE/zmRM0O41Hhg/s1600/IMG_5446.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508739431629064098" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5U5ZwB6I/AAAAAAAAAcE/zmRM0O41Hhg/s320/IMG_5446.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5T7y0sEI/AAAAAAAAAb0/WFzOuVFAAAY/s1600/IMG_5442.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508739415091228738" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5T7y0sEI/AAAAAAAAAb0/WFzOuVFAAAY/s320/IMG_5442.JPG" /></a> </div><br /><div>In June we went on vacation with my mom and nephew. We stayed at Massanutten Resort in Virginia. We visited Monticello - plantation owned by Thomas Jefferson and Luray Caverns. Both were very interesting and lots of fun, well except the part where Ella and I were kicked out of the Monicello tour. I don't know <em>why</em> they asked us to leave, obviously Ella was in a very cooperative and pleasant mood. They did let me go through with another group after our tour was over.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5VoPvqMI/AAAAAAAAAcU/wzqhVDaHerc/s1600/IMG_5571.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508739444203563202" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5VoPvqMI/AAAAAAAAAcU/wzqhVDaHerc/s320/IMG_5571.JPG" /></a> </div><div><br />This picture does not do Luray Caverns justice by any means. It is by far the best caves I have ever toured. If you happen to be in the area I would highly recommend it!</div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5VHnrC5I/AAAAAAAAAcM/jBe_g0E19OQ/s1600/IMG_5492.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508739435445554066" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL5VHnrC5I/AAAAAAAAAcM/jBe_g0E19OQ/s320/IMG_5492.JPG" /></a> </div><div>This picture of "Reflection Lake" sort of not really captures the beauty of the place....seriously, it was gorgeous and amazing!<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-PjFxraI/AAAAAAAAAc8/iwh-S9QyQXA/s1600/IMG_5473.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508744837298498978" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-PjFxraI/AAAAAAAAAc8/iwh-S9QyQXA/s320/IMG_5473.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>In July we visited Darren's parents in Wisconsin. Here we are harvesting peas from the garden.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-PUsVgUI/AAAAAAAAAc0/dhxvI7WNojs/s1600/IMG_5644.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508744833433698626" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-PUsVgUI/AAAAAAAAAc0/dhxvI7WNojs/s320/IMG_5644.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>In August Ella and Henry made mud pies.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-P7QT90I/AAAAAAAAAdE/pUiqwjNB_wI/s1600/IMG_5759.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508744843785140034" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-P7QT90I/AAAAAAAAAdE/pUiqwjNB_wI/s320/IMG_5759.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>And we picked blueberries...</div></div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-OyAlSnI/AAAAAAAAAcs/FjbzDRZOrPY/s1600/IMG_5774.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508744824123378290" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-OyAlSnI/AAAAAAAAAcs/FjbzDRZOrPY/s320/IMG_5774.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Check out all of those blueberries!!<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-ObzNbfI/AAAAAAAAAck/zE-NkMaXIuo/s1600/IMG_5773.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508744818161708530" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/THL-ObzNbfI/AAAAAAAAAck/zE-NkMaXIuo/s320/IMG_5773.JPG" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-88448838074828307902010-03-30T17:44:00.003-04:002010-03-30T17:57:21.679-04:00princess pjsElla is very into the disney princesses lately. So, I made her a princess nightgown. I had leftover fabric so I made some pants to go with it.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S7JwzAzuCaI/AAAAAAAAAbk/OdcjLwB8Lzk/s1600/IMG_5251.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S7JwzAzuCaI/AAAAAAAAAbk/OdcjLwB8Lzk/s320/IMG_5251.JPG" /></a> <div style="CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BACKGROUND: 0% 50%; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-TOP: 0px; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" border="0" alt="Posted by Picasa" align="middle" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" /></a></div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-51952618245575839092010-03-29T03:35:00.003-04:002010-03-29T04:00:46.781-04:00a day in MarchIt has been a very busy month in a hurry up and wait kind of way. It seems as though we have been dealing with a lot of sickness...nothing major but on-going where it just zaps the energy right out of you. Ella is finally on some antibiotics for an ear infection so hopefully she is back to feeling great soon (and we can be done with all the whining...please tell me the whining will stop)! In the meantime, she wants me to hold her all.the.time! She weighs 38 lbs.<br /><br />This morning we made muffins for breakfast. The timer went off and I pulled them out of the oven and set them on top of the stove. I reminded her that the the pan was hot and turned to put something in the trash (do you see where this is going?)...and then I heard it...the shriek of pain. She touched the pan. (I've reread this a couple times and every time I read that last sentence it is in the voice of the fish in Finding Nemo..."he touched the butt") Her pointer finger has a lovely blister on it and we spent a good hour crying and whining and needing held.<br /><br />From a parenting standpoint...I totally thought we were past this point! We have always had "safe zones" where she can stand whenever we open the oven and she has always been very careful and cautious - even when she was quite small so I was flabbergasted that she actually touched the pan, especially since I reminded her about it. I hope we learned the lesson this time!<br /><br />Later we took a shower together. I gave her some new shower crayons that were a big hit. She's playing with the crayons, bar of soap, washcloth...what could go wrong? So, I'm happily washing my hair and all of a sudden I hear the shriek of pain again. Argh! What this time...her area hurts. Um, ok...so I rinse her off thinking maybe she has some soap irritation. Doesn't help but she calms down and we are done so I start to dry off...and she pees and starts shrieking. (seriously, I think I need earplugs some days). So, I turn on the water to rinse us/the tub off) and get us dried off. I'm not allowed to look or touch anything but it all hurts! We get dressed and head downstairs for lunch. (which I will make and eat while holding her)<br /><br />To sum up our afternoon...we had multiple wardrobe changes and lots of shrieking. No idea what the problem was but by dinner she seemed ok.<br /><br />We called Granny. I needed my Mommy and Ella needed her Granny so we talked her into coming over for the afternoon. It definitely made the day go much better!! She can live with me as far as I'm concerned. She has that special touch that just makes everything better!Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-66946195438526918402010-03-02T11:32:00.002-05:002010-03-02T11:39:08.773-05:00More basement...Something is missing...or rather, has been replaced! We finally decided to take the plunge into HD tv land.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409yEhiOQI/AAAAAAAAAa0/4iuc74wT1XE/s1600-h/IMG_5223.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409yEhiOQI/AAAAAAAAAa0/4iuc74wT1XE/s320/IMG_5223.JPG" /></a><br /><br />We bought some wall sticker thingys for the play area. I was really worried about how hard it would be to put up and how it would look. Well, I think it turned out awesome. :) Ella saw it this morning and said "oh, it's boo-tiful!!"<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409yUPYehI/AAAAAAAAAa8/08o2WWuwzsA/s1600-h/IMG_5224.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409yUPYehI/AAAAAAAAAa8/08o2WWuwzsA/s320/IMG_5224.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409ylbvSII/AAAAAAAAAbE/5OL84j5AFKk/s1600-h/IMG_5225.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409ylbvSII/AAAAAAAAAbE/5OL84j5AFKk/s320/IMG_5225.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409zAvehRI/AAAAAAAAAbM/lNfg30ZDAq8/s1600-h/IMG_5226.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S409zAvehRI/AAAAAAAAAbM/lNfg30ZDAq8/s320/IMG_5226.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Aside from ordering some photos to fit some frames and hanging those in the basement, we are done with this area. woohooo!!! Well, unless we decide to try and stain the coffee table to match the tv stand and fireplace.<br /><div style="CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"></a></div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-42084144643117165592010-02-23T13:15:00.002-05:002010-02-23T13:25:54.127-05:00Basement UpdateHere is the new mirror over the fireplace. I would like it to be a little lower but the hole we are hiding is that high. The G cleft looking thing is a sculpture I bought in Ecuador and the checker board behind that is a chess set from Ecuador as well. The board is kept shut so the cats don't run off with the pieces, but we thought this would work for the display. On the right, there is a bowl that we picked up in Roantan (I think - eek!) and a vase from a local store (made in China - so can I say it is from China?). I want to get some sort of sprigs of something to put in the vase.<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4Qbth8uU-I/AAAAAAAAAac/0ys3_IhCKbc/s1600-h/IMG_5114.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441504718791529442" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4Qbth8uU-I/AAAAAAAAAac/0ys3_IhCKbc/s320/IMG_5114.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div> </div><div>Here is the cut-out area. All fine artifacts from China.<br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4QbtNgnqCI/AAAAAAAAAaU/cBQLVcSSPTw/s1600-h/IMG_5115.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441504713304942626" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4QbtNgnqCI/AAAAAAAAAaU/cBQLVcSSPTw/s320/IMG_5115.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div>Close up.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4Qbt_tJpaI/AAAAAAAAAak/DY_1gv6E5ss/s1600-h/IMG_5116.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441504726779274658" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4Qbt_tJpaI/AAAAAAAAAak/DY_1gv6E5ss/s320/IMG_5116.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div>We have decided to get a new TV and TV stand as well. Eventually we will get new furniture too. </div><div> </div><div>We are almost there...</div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-13648557358074408282010-02-21T10:06:00.003-05:002010-02-21T10:34:46.206-05:00PaintingSince we bought our house we have done little to decorate. A lot of the problem is we just can't decide what to do. Well, we finally took the plunge and had our basement painted. Thanks Marla and Tim!!!<br /><br /><br />The basement serves as our family/tv room and Ella's play area. There is an electric fireplace down there (thank heavens because it is the only source of heat) and above the fireplace there is a massive hole in the wall so that we have access to our water shut-offs. The first day we moved in the cats were sticking their heads in the hole so we knew it had to be covered before one of them fell in so we put up the only picture that wasn't in a box. It is still there. I think it is way too big for the spot and want to put something else there....any ideas? A fancy mirror?<br /><br /><br />Another decorating dilemna we have is on one of the walls there is a little built in cut-out shelf thing. I don't know what you call it. You can see it in the pictures...what should we put in there? I was thinking of maybe a pretty vase with some simple flowers? Any other ideas? I worry that the cats will chew on any flowers we put there. the little troublemakers!<br /><br /><br />We have also been debating about what to do with the giant tv cabinet. I go back and forth between leaving it the way it is and tossing that and hanging a nice flat panel on the wall. But what do you do with the components and the videos? Decisions, decisions. What would you do? I think the cabinet takes up a ton of space so hanging the tv on the wall would give us another 2 feet to the room in a way.<br /><br /><br />The most annoying thing right now is that we have a dvd player, a vcr and a wii and the way it is set up right now is you can only have 1 plugged in to the tv at a time. And the plug-ins are on the back. So really, I would be happy with any set up that didn't involve messing with the electronics depending on what I want to do.<br /><br /><br />Of course, money is something to consider. We decided to only work on one room at a time so if we go all out with a new tv then it will slow down projects for the rest of the house. I would LOVE to get new furniture but we have decided to hold off on that for awhile longer. Sigh. See what I mean about making decisions?<br /><br /><br /><br />Ok...here are the pictures. You look and comment with ideas...we need ideas...or better yet, come on over and decorate it for us. :)<br /><br /><br />Oh, and we are painting the stairwell to the basement the same color as the TV part of the basement....if we have leftover paint from that, we will paint the ladder to the 'clubhouse'.<br /><br /><br />ok, for real, here are the pictures.<br /><br /><br /><br />Looking into the play area part. We need some lights in the clubhouse area...I was thinking rope lighting, any other ideas?<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRFSKwRuI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/gAEDdb1EZIc/s1600-h/IMG_5111.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440718976058410722" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRFSKwRuI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/gAEDdb1EZIc/s320/IMG_5111.JPG" /></a><br /><br />The tv area...see the white part...what should we put in there? guess you can't see the fireplace too well, it is on an angle and the picture is pretty much the width of the wall.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRE3O_-4I/AAAAAAAAAZ0/3TlTK4BOIjs/s1600-h/IMG_5110.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440718968828459906" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRE3O_-4I/AAAAAAAAAZ0/3TlTK4BOIjs/s320/IMG_5110.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>Another shot of the playroom looking the other way.</div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRFmjdasI/AAAAAAAAAaE/6imhR04p3Us/s1600-h/IMG_5112.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440718981530741442" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRFmjdasI/AAAAAAAAAaE/6imhR04p3Us/s320/IMG_5112.JPG" /></a> </div><div> </div><div>And the clubhouse...see how dark it is.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRFyF2UbI/AAAAAAAAAaM/ZKLBsaAHLQU/s1600-h/IMG_5113.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440718984627769778" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S4FRFyF2UbI/AAAAAAAAAaM/ZKLBsaAHLQU/s320/IMG_5113.JPG" /></a></div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-69632879013495575772010-02-13T09:38:00.005-05:002010-02-13T10:05:56.789-05:00Fun in the Sun, er SnowWe have had a tremendous amount of snow this year. I think it snowed for 2 weeks straight right after Christmas and we have had some big snowfall amounts (for this area). Last weekend we got about a foot of snow. There is even a new dusting of snow on the ground this morning. Have I mentioned that we have a lot of snow?<br /><br />We finally dragged Ella out. Generally, she is not a big fan of the cold but we played for awhile and she actually wasn't ready to come inside when it was time.<br /><br />Rosy cheeks<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7BWd6NGI/AAAAAAAAAZM/08_5gdLFgI4/s1600-h/IMG_5049.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437739231981745250" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7BWd6NGI/AAAAAAAAAZM/08_5gdLFgI4/s320/IMG_5049.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Helping shovel<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7AwS21WI/AAAAAAAAAZE/_xHqwwD2Vww/s1600-h/IMG_5041.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437739221734839650" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7AwS21WI/AAAAAAAAAZE/_xHqwwD2Vww/s320/IMG_5041.JPG" /></a><br /><br />more shoveling. The piles of snow are at least waist high.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7AmZlt3I/AAAAAAAAAY8/Mcp0uoDHxwo/s1600-h/IMG_5039.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437739219078723442" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7AmZlt3I/AAAAAAAAAY8/Mcp0uoDHxwo/s320/IMG_5039.JPG" /></a><br /><br />making snow angels<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7AQROhwI/AAAAAAAAAY0/QNJ-acCN5_g/s1600-h/IMG_5038+(2).JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 241px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437739213138069250" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a7AQROhwI/AAAAAAAAAY0/QNJ-acCN5_g/s320/IMG_5038+(2).JPG" /></a><br /><br />giving the car a snow bath<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a6_9iDRJI/AAAAAAAAAYs/aF5sT6vH2SA/s1600-h/IMG_5034.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437739208108360850" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a6_9iDRJI/AAAAAAAAAYs/aF5sT6vH2SA/s320/IMG_5034.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br />Remember the swingset we built last year...<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9YNWf3II/AAAAAAAAAZs/TQzfRp79IXo/s1600-h/IMG_5059.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437741823694986370" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9YNWf3II/AAAAAAAAAZs/TQzfRp79IXo/s320/IMG_5059.JPG" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>After we warmed up we decided to make pinecone bird feeders...</div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9SYQdvRI/AAAAAAAAAZc/rvMa0-EmGJc/s1600-h/IMG_5057.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437741723543256338" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9SYQdvRI/AAAAAAAAAZc/rvMa0-EmGJc/s320/IMG_5057.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9PStXLgI/AAAAAAAAAZU/bazT2f3Vs8k/s1600-h/IMG_5056.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437741670514241026" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9PStXLgI/AAAAAAAAAZU/bazT2f3Vs8k/s320/IMG_5056.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div> </div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9VcMp6HI/AAAAAAAAAZk/wjMhGV-8b6c/s1600-h/IMG_5058.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437741776140626034" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S3a9VcMp6HI/AAAAAAAAAZk/wjMhGV-8b6c/s320/IMG_5058.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Hopefully the birds find their little treat. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br /> </div><div></div></div></div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-9332477243310357842010-02-04T20:04:00.002-05:002010-02-04T20:25:24.466-05:00Princess ToesThe other day I got a pedicure. When Ella saw my painted toes she exclaimed "Oh, Mommy what beautiful princess toes!"<br /><br />The next day we painted her toes so she could have princess toes too.<br /><br />And then the next day she declared that Daddy needed princess toes too.<br /><br />And now he does.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvZTSckWI/AAAAAAAAAYk/blnwerRatwc/s1600-h/IMG_5015.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434559855817691490" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvZTSckWI/AAAAAAAAAYk/blnwerRatwc/s320/IMG_5015.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvY_2WiEI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Q4YzXkZOSCo/s1600-h/IMG_5018.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434559850599581762" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvY_2WiEI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Q4YzXkZOSCo/s320/IMG_5018.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvYv_FXnI/AAAAAAAAAYU/qIJXKaYCPSQ/s1600-h/IMG_5016.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434559846341238386" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvYv_FXnI/AAAAAAAAAYU/qIJXKaYCPSQ/s320/IMG_5016.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvYMx4H7I/AAAAAAAAAYM/YuTMpN33yvQ/s1600-h/IMG_5020.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434559836890603442" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/S2tvYMx4H7I/AAAAAAAAAYM/YuTMpN33yvQ/s320/IMG_5020.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-17174464641367080722009-12-10T07:39:00.004-05:002009-12-10T08:14:27.774-05:00Ella's BirthdayElla's birthday party was a wild animal theme. We had it in the play area of a local church. You can rent the facility which was perfect because it was just our group there. Our biggest complaint was the sun blaring in on us (made for difficulty taking pictures along with just being able to see what we were doing). We survived, just pointing it out so you aren't wondering why the pictures are the way they are.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtIxtSkeI/AAAAAAAAAXM/uAWgtVh93Js/s1600-h/100_4744.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413587487137370594" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtIxtSkeI/AAAAAAAAAXM/uAWgtVh93Js/s320/100_4744.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br />The food...<br /><br />We had animal shaped cheese and salami...elephant and moose<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtKmqrE9I/AAAAAAAAAXs/pBaFcKQzpYk/s1600-h/100_4725.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413587518533342162" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtKmqrE9I/AAAAAAAAAXs/pBaFcKQzpYk/s320/100_4725.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Animal shaped sandwiches...elephant, giraffe and crocodile<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtKIkpzTI/AAAAAAAAAXk/G33m0PfsEgc/s1600-h/100_4726.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413587510455029042" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtKIkpzTI/AAAAAAAAAXk/G33m0PfsEgc/s320/100_4726.JPG" /></a><br /><br />and of course, animal shaped cupcakes...monkeys, lions, zebras and tigers<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtJpBdEXI/AAAAAAAAAXc/fuFbFlAR0XE/s1600-h/100_4716.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413587501985894770" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtJpBdEXI/AAAAAAAAAXc/fuFbFlAR0XE/s320/100_4716.JPG" /></a><br /><br />a close up...<br /><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtJQFjOKI/AAAAAAAAAXU/dQuraL2ZYc8/s1600-h/100_4713.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413587495292188834" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDtJQFjOKI/AAAAAAAAAXU/dQuraL2ZYc8/s320/100_4713.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div>The kids were all invited to make their own plate. We did this when I was a kid and still use the plates at my mom's house.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDwi3SlCoI/AAAAAAAAAYE/1NxS7WlGawI/s1600-h/100_4721.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413591233847429762" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDwi3SlCoI/AAAAAAAAAYE/1NxS7WlGawI/s320/100_4721.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div>Opening gifts...</div><div>Ella got several wonderful gifts...thanks again everybody!! </div></div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDwilhmYAI/AAAAAAAAAX8/lpO7WB7w7jQ/s1600-h/100_4778.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413591229078593538" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDwilhmYAI/AAAAAAAAAX8/lpO7WB7w7jQ/s320/100_4778.JPG" /></a><br />I love how the girls (who were all sitting so very nicely while Ella opened gifts) were excited and very carefully pointing out something on the box ...it just seems so sweet.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDwiMGGdoI/AAAAAAAAAX0/EizpRbJzJCg/s1600-h/100_4776.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413591222252369538" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SyDwiMGGdoI/AAAAAAAAAX0/EizpRbJzJCg/s320/100_4776.JPG" /></a><br /><br />I need to take a picture of the invite, so will post that when I do it. I was quite proud of how the invites and cupcakes turned out. :)Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-80155156281883290702009-12-08T09:05:00.004-05:002009-12-08T09:32:28.861-05:00Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas TreeThis is our first Christmas in our new house! woohoo!<br /><br />One of the criteria for our new house was a place to put the 9 foot Christmas tree that I bought in 2001. It had never even been out of the box. I know, I'm silly to buy the tree in the first place but it was so big and beautiful in the store. And it was on clearance.<br /><br />So this past weekend we had the task of putting up the trees.<br /><br />We assembled the 9 foot tree, which is our fancy tree. I had no idea how it would go together but it was a breeze...just snap these 3 pieces together and fluff the branches! Next step...lights. We apparently got rid of most of our lights 2 years ago (we just put up a tiny tree with no decor last year in the apartment). The fancy tree is on hold while we wait for lights.<br /><br />We decided to put the smaller tree in the family room. We put it together and decorated it. Ella was a great help with ornaments. I would hand them too her and keep sorting through the box and when I finally looked up I found she had put about 8 ornaments on one branch.<br /><br />We finish the tree and stand back to admire and Ella declares that it "needs something". We ask her what it needs and she proudly grabbed a barbie and put her in the tree. The tree still wasn't done. She found another barbie and put her in the tree. And declared "there, that's better".<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sx5d02wpCOI/AAAAAAAAAW8/1mmqAOzPs3s/s1600-h/100_4799.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412866964780026082" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sx5d02wpCOI/AAAAAAAAAW8/1mmqAOzPs3s/s320/100_4799.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sx5iee-W4iI/AAAAAAAAAXE/p_zbQOINYXw/s1600-h/100_4800.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412872077996122658" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sx5iee-W4iI/AAAAAAAAAXE/p_zbQOINYXw/s320/100_4800.JPG" /></a><br />The next day we spent the day searching for lights for the fancy tree. We went to 5 different stores and finally found a couple of boxes. As I was confirming with Darren that these would do (he stayed in the car while I checked for lights) people were snatching them up right and left. I grabbed the last 5 boxes, display box and all and ran (well, not literally but I walked quickly and hoped I didn't get pounced on). What's with the light shortage this year?<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sx5d0MXc6FI/AAAAAAAAAWs/eYfT_WU64xs/s1600-h/100_4796.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412866953400084562" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sx5d0MXc6FI/AAAAAAAAAWs/eYfT_WU64xs/s320/100_4796.JPG" /></a><br />This is the only spot in our house that can accomodate the tree and the star is touching the ceiling! Love it!!Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-23817522238906158532009-12-01T08:53:00.002-05:002009-12-01T09:00:54.812-05:00Happy Birthday EllaToday is Ella's 3rd birthday!!!<br /><br />Where has the time gone??<br /><br />It seems like just yesterday we were nervously driving to the hospital, but it was 3 years ago!<br /><br />A lot has happened it these 3 years...we have sold our condo and moved into the apartment and then bought our new house. We've travelled to Wisconsin and Gatlinburg. Ella has learned to sit up, crawl, walk and talk! She amazes me with how smart she is!<br /><br />Happy Birthday my sweet baby girl!!Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-89732935223191272882009-11-30T07:08:00.001-05:002009-11-30T07:10:03.118-05:00technical difficultiesWe are experiencing technical difficulties. We are resolving to work out these issues (and about have them solved). Thank you for your continued patience.<br /><br />Coming up next...Ella's Birthday Party! :)Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-15561653974456181112009-10-06T09:54:00.011-04:002009-10-06T21:53:04.880-04:00Gatlinburg, TN<div>Last week we went to Gatlinburg, TN with some good friends of ours. We had a super duper terrific vacation and did lots of fun stuff. </div><div></div><br /><div>We arrived on Sunday and after checking in, went for a delicious dinner at the Park Grille. Darren and I split a Filet and Trout entree with a side of sweet potato pie and salad from the salad bar. YUM! We then headed to the grocery store to pick up some groceries for the week. Our travel companions had their first encounter with a bear while driving from the restaurant to the grocery store...let the excitement begin!<br /></div><br /><div>On Monday we tried to go horse back riding but found that it had been raining for several days and it was not recommended to take the kids on the muddy trails. We petted the goats instead. </div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SstTLVcXVmI/AAAAAAAAAVU/NPY2d3LIg6E/s1600-h/100_4468.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389492833278711394" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SstTLVcXVmI/AAAAAAAAAVU/NPY2d3LIg6E/s320/100_4468.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><div>On our way home we stopped at the Great Smokey Mountain National Park visitors center. We got information on good hiking trails that a 2 year old could handle. </div><br /><div></div><div>We decided on a 3 mile (round trip) hike to Laurel Falls. We were told the trail is "paved" and "easy". We decided that since the trail was "paved" that we would put the kids in the stroller. Definitely a good call because I think pushing the stroller on the "paved" trail would've been much easier than carrying them on the "easy" trail. (have you figured out that the trail is not what I would consider paved or easy?)</div><div></div><br /><div>Anyways...it was a pretty hike and the falls were beautiful. I would show you, but the batteries on the camera were dead. The biggest excitement on this hike was... </div><br /><div></div><div>A real live wild bear crossed our path!!! </div><div></div><br /><div>He was about 30-50 feet away just munching on some food and wandering up the hill!</div><div> </div><div>Ca-Razy!!!!</div><div></div><br /><div> </div><div>Here are some other highlights from the week...</div><br /><div></div><div>The Aquarium - nice size aquarium for the little ones. We went on the 1 rainy day (yeah for great vacation weather!). </div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SstVqL9TSpI/AAAAAAAAAVk/UxNrdzz6a5E/s1600-h/100_4630.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389495562331703954" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SstVqL9TSpI/AAAAAAAAAVk/UxNrdzz6a5E/s320/100_4630.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SstVptPY32I/AAAAAAAAAVc/ucf9f8FGs4o/s1600-h/100_4597.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389495554086068066" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SstVptPY32I/AAAAAAAAAVc/ucf9f8FGs4o/s320/100_4597.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Parrot Mountain - This place was a blast. It is up a VERY steep hill and the grounds are very hilly. They have some pretty gardens and birds sitting on posts throughout. In the middle there is an area where you can feed the birds. Some of them can talk. It was LOUD! They also had Lorikeets that we fed nectar too. We were all a little skeptical before going, but it was one of our favorite places. </div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Ssvuakj_lHI/AAAAAAAAAV8/mfcraVRASAc/s1600-h/100_4552.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389663519337583730" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Ssvuakj_lHI/AAAAAAAAAV8/mfcraVRASAc/s320/100_4552.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvuZ-nqy4I/AAAAAAAAAV0/X2fW1Jq5OHw/s1600-h/100_4537.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389663509152451458" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvuZ-nqy4I/AAAAAAAAAV0/X2fW1Jq5OHw/s320/100_4537.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvuZkAOsyI/AAAAAAAAAVs/Rpu9KuJ4K_A/s1600-h/100_4514.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389663502007710498" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvuZkAOsyI/AAAAAAAAAVs/Rpu9KuJ4K_A/s320/100_4514.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>Horseback riding - Darren rode with Ella on Wheezee and I rode Brazil. I didn't have my camera. It was a nice ride. </div><br /><div>Shopping at the outlets and quaint (and cheesy) Gatlinburg shops - I got some sweaters and new sunglasses (I broke my pair the day before and stumbled across a sunglass store at the outlets...thank heavens...I can't see in the bright sun!).</div><br /><div>Ober Gatlinburg - Neat place with lots of activities. </div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvvzXCG7AI/AAAAAAAAAWU/kJua5uyJLd8/s1600-h/100_4489.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389665044714155010" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvvzXCG7AI/AAAAAAAAAWU/kJua5uyJLd8/s320/100_4489.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvvywusauI/AAAAAAAAAWM/fGRJaecfhv4/s1600-h/100_4492.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389665034432178914" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvvywusauI/AAAAAAAAAWM/fGRJaecfhv4/s320/100_4492.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvvyilUFHI/AAAAAAAAAWE/QyD4A1BFnrs/s1600-h/100_4475.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389665030634738802" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SsvvyilUFHI/AAAAAAAAAWE/QyD4A1BFnrs/s320/100_4475.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><div>Clingman's Dome - in the National Park, specatular views. Only Greg did the hike up to the actual dome...it was mid-afternoon and we were all missing our nap. On the drive down, we stumbled across a bear eating on the side of the road. Camera was in the trunk (of course) so we didn't get pictures. Sigh!</div><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Ssvw-Yf98LI/AAAAAAAAAWc/qS2FNENTgYY/s1600-h/100_4595.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389666333598019762" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Ssvw-Yf98LI/AAAAAAAAAWc/qS2FNENTgYY/s320/100_4595.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><div>Roaring Fork Motor Tour - this is a scenic driving tour in the park. There are about 12 stops along the way that you can get out and see things (waterfalls, historic builidings, overlooks, etc). At the beginning of the tour was a playground so we let the kids play for a bit. Ella was running in the mulch and tripped and landed oddly on her knee. We were quite worried because it seemed to be giving out under her and she was limping horribly. She kept telling us she was fine and wanted to go play and then would limp and say "ouch" with every step. She is one tough cookie!!!! We limited her walking for a bit and when she got up from her nap she was walking fine - Thank God!!! </div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Ssvx-ZTwAbI/AAAAAAAAAWk/HWt00Isgad4/s1600-h/100_4653.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389667433326838194" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Ssvx-ZTwAbI/AAAAAAAAAWk/HWt00Isgad4/s320/100_4653.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>We did a little swimming, played some games, had date nights. We had the other little girl in our car for most of the week and it was so sweet to listen to the conversations with her and Ella! I wish I could've recorded some of them! We were sad when her carseat was moved back to her car! </div></div></div></div></div></div>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-13103459631357565892009-09-25T07:43:00.004-04:002009-09-25T08:11:50.056-04:00Ella's First HaircutAt the ripe ol' age of 2 years, 9 months and 17 days, Ella had her first haircut.<br /><br />She chose a carousel horse to sit on while getting her haircut. Check out the "before" hair.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywYO928LI/AAAAAAAAAVE/c1nb9f8HtB0/s1600-h/100_4442.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385373184809169074" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywYO928LI/AAAAAAAAAVE/c1nb9f8HtB0/s320/100_4442.JPG" /></a><br /><br />She was nervously excited, not sure she really knew what was going on just yet. She said having her hair played with felt good.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywXqDNkvI/AAAAAAAAAU8/ty9v8VjvlSM/s1600-h/100_4444.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385373174899512050" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywXqDNkvI/AAAAAAAAAU8/ty9v8VjvlSM/s320/100_4444.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Cutting the bangs.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywXQveNEI/AAAAAAAAAU0/i1AZrb1q9hE/s1600-h/100_4447.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385373168105829442" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywXQveNEI/AAAAAAAAAU0/i1AZrb1q9hE/s320/100_4447.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Her hair is surprisingly long.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywW6EzgKI/AAAAAAAAAUs/aYxUM_z5vww/s1600-h/100_4452.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385373162021290146" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywW6EzgKI/AAAAAAAAAUs/aYxUM_z5vww/s320/100_4452.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Checking out the new do.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywWjUkaKI/AAAAAAAAAUk/GpvMWA_S5JQ/s1600-h/100_4455.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385373155913394338" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrywWjUkaKI/AAAAAAAAAUk/GpvMWA_S5JQ/s320/100_4455.JPG" /></a><br /><br />We celebrated this milestone day with ice cream.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SryxcBOxwqI/AAAAAAAAAVM/RoEjkF4XKlg/s1600-h/100_4459.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385374349353140898" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SryxcBOxwqI/AAAAAAAAAVM/RoEjkF4XKlg/s320/100_4459.JPG" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-9410584625368998882009-09-25T07:41:00.002-04:002009-09-25T07:43:33.055-04:00Just one more for todayafter this one.<br /><br />I slacked off on the blogging even though I had several posts that I wanted to make, I just didn't have the time to sit down and do it (darn facebook farm town). I'm getting caught up now...<br /><br />I'll try to do better in the future. :)Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-78815268501753475892009-09-25T07:38:00.001-04:002009-09-25T07:41:28.968-04:00a girl and her cat<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrysO2O6m-I/AAAAAAAAAUc/ZuimVxHUBlM/s1600-h/100_4437.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrysO2O6m-I/AAAAAAAAAUc/ZuimVxHUBlM/s320/100_4437.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385368625504492514" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-51208775941461085932009-09-25T07:04:00.004-04:002009-09-25T07:28:58.684-04:00Monkey PicturesElla wanted to take a picture of her stuffed monkey. <br /><br />She got him all posed on the chair.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylEuRY1yI/AAAAAAAAAT8/tUfQHYG74TY/s1600-h/100_4462.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylEuRY1yI/AAAAAAAAAT8/tUfQHYG74TY/s320/100_4462.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385360754987292450" /></a><br /><br />Then Mommy got inspired and wanted to take a picture of her monkey. <br /><br />She got her all posed on the chair. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylFLqB-UI/AAAAAAAAAUE/y1eumrY9WPc/s1600-h/100_4463.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylFLqB-UI/AAAAAAAAAUE/y1eumrY9WPc/s320/100_4463.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385360762875279682" /></a><br /><br />Then Ella wanted to make mad and silly faces.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylGGVPONI/AAAAAAAAAUU/cW7UIVf_oYk/s1600-h/100_4464.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylGGVPONI/AAAAAAAAAUU/cW7UIVf_oYk/s320/100_4464.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385360778625759442" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylFiTlZBI/AAAAAAAAAUM/ZmWJdEU7jOw/s1600-h/100_4466.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SrylFiTlZBI/AAAAAAAAAUM/ZmWJdEU7jOw/s320/100_4466.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385360768955147282" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-6991533223841524482009-09-25T06:23:00.004-04:002009-09-25T06:45:50.760-04:00Cops and Kids DayCops and Kids Day is an annual event in Westerville. They have police officers come from agencies all over central Ohio and they bring cool equipment like armored trucks and bomb robot things. The kids can go around and check out the equipment. <br /><br />Usually the officer is handing out some sort of freebie...coloring book, sticker and Ella's favorite...candy. She would stand at the table by the candy and just stare at the officer. They would offer her the coloring book and she would take it, thank them and then continue to stare. Finally they would realize what she wanted and offer her some candy (I think they expected the kids would just take it) and she would happily grab a piece. Her patience was amazing. <br /><br />There were also bounce houses and balloons and face painting and free food. <br /><br />We had a lot of fun!<br /><br /><br />Peeking out of an armoured truck.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sryb5H5RVSI/AAAAAAAAATk/Q0JW-IWXDOo/s1600-h/100_4416.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sryb5H5RVSI/AAAAAAAAATk/Q0JW-IWXDOo/s320/100_4416.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385350660102378786" /></a><br /><br />We were waiting in line for the bounce house. Loved the way she was standing there holding onto the stroller, the feet stance. She's such a little grown up.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sryb6I5uYBI/AAAAAAAAAT0/soKCN_X5MDM/s1600-h/100_4422.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sryb6I5uYBI/AAAAAAAAAT0/soKCN_X5MDM/s320/100_4422.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385350677552586770" /></a><br /><br />This little guy was a remote controlled bear that talked to you via the operator. Since it is a "live" dog it actually talks and interacts with you. Ella LOVED this guy! <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sryb5vJ12TI/AAAAAAAAATs/dk9Hh_UEmPk/s1600-h/100_4418.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/Sryb5vJ12TI/AAAAAAAAATs/dk9Hh_UEmPk/s320/100_4418.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385350670640863538" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-18474468779705648822009-08-31T08:21:00.003-04:002009-08-31T08:34:28.503-04:00ZooColumbus has a great zoo! Our family has a membership so we go frequently, sometimes only for an hour or 2. The other day Ella and I had nothing else to do so we headed to the zoo for a little impromptu visit. On the way I asked Ella what animal she wanted to see and she replied "the tigers". <br /><br />On the way to see the tigers we walked by the elephants and the line to see the new baby elephant was at the "15 minute wait" sign so we decided to hop in line for that. <br /><br />First the elephant. Isn't he cute?!<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvCgSApuzI/AAAAAAAAATM/7nhiecHdFgQ/s1600-h/100_4367.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvCgSApuzI/AAAAAAAAATM/7nhiecHdFgQ/s320/100_4367.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376104440042994482" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvCgHZiXVI/AAAAAAAAATE/X5AZhlujyMM/s1600-h/100_4366.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvCgHZiXVI/AAAAAAAAATE/X5AZhlujyMM/s320/100_4366.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376104437194579282" /></a><br /><br />And check out the tiger! He was pacing back and forth along the glass. Ella was nose to nose with him...way cool! :)<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvChe-7McI/AAAAAAAAATc/Y3ldRkN1bgE/s1600-h/100_4394.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvChe-7McI/AAAAAAAAATc/Y3ldRkN1bgE/s320/100_4394.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376104460705280450" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvCg2uWEtI/AAAAAAAAATU/a9gyZG1EXck/s1600-h/100_4374.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpvCg2uWEtI/AAAAAAAAATU/a9gyZG1EXck/s320/100_4374.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376104449898320594" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-45492258175985979372009-08-23T20:01:00.002-04:002009-08-23T20:06:39.234-04:00Reversible Tote BagLook what I made!!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHYx75KxiI/AAAAAAAAAS0/MJbuMDCnZ3c/s1600-h/100_4280.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHYx75KxiI/AAAAAAAAAS0/MJbuMDCnZ3c/s320/100_4280.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373314182832375330" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHYxdk3ZTI/AAAAAAAAASs/Y9pPq9ni5fA/s1600-h/100_4279.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHYxdk3ZTI/AAAAAAAAASs/Y9pPq9ni5fA/s320/100_4279.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373314174694155570" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHYyBztQdI/AAAAAAAAAS8/uKiYaitTWpM/s1600-h/100_4282.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHYyBztQdI/AAAAAAAAAS8/uKiYaitTWpM/s320/100_4282.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373314184420082130" /></a><br /><br />A reversible tote bag!! <br /><br />Ella saw it and claimed it as her own.Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-67862542414246754102009-08-23T19:50:00.003-04:002009-08-23T20:01:00.937-04:00weekend projectRecently we received a friendly letter from the home owners association regarding the condition of our mailbox, specifically the post. Our mailbox post was painted white and apparently that is a big no-no (it is to be a neutral wood color) so we were instructed to correct the situation.<br /><br />Off to Home Depot...<br /><br />I'll spare you the details and just say that we fixed it today and here is the proof.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHWxPVFE_I/AAAAAAAAASk/-NSVzsyytl8/s1600-h/100_4353.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SpHWxPVFE_I/AAAAAAAAASk/-NSVzsyytl8/s320/100_4353.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373311971846591474" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-23768222459608894082009-08-12T06:34:00.003-04:002009-08-12T06:50:08.629-04:00Birthday PartyWe had a birthday party for Mom on Monday. We grilled out and enjoyed yummy cake and pie. Ella even put on a party dress (she's not a big fan of the dress ya know).<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbsVv_XaI/AAAAAAAAASA/okX_yor1dc4/s1600-h/100_3929.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369024891834031522" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbsVv_XaI/AAAAAAAAASA/okX_yor1dc4/s320/100_3929.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbt56Z1zI/AAAAAAAAASY/z4YCofUK-Oc/s1600-h/100_3940.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369024918721255218" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbt56Z1zI/AAAAAAAAASY/z4YCofUK-Oc/s320/100_3940.JPG" /></a><br /><br />I think he wants some cake!<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbtI8KaJI/AAAAAAAAASQ/-fNxYxcLBfk/s1600-h/100_3926.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369024905575295122" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbtI8KaJI/AAAAAAAAASQ/-fNxYxcLBfk/s320/100_3926.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Showing off the loot.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbsnhaBOI/AAAAAAAAASI/NerWgAlU9Rc/s1600-h/100_3950.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369024896604701922" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoKbsnhaBOI/AAAAAAAAASI/NerWgAlU9Rc/s320/100_3950.JPG" /></a><br /><br />On a side note...there were "complaints" about the thickness of the pie crust. I personally like it a little thick but also can't seem to roll it thin enough for some people (Darren and Marla). I realize this pie had issues since I pieced the top together with hand smashed dough...but any good ideas for rolling the dough thinner and still being able to move it?Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926850576939605708.post-28559450998975544442009-08-11T18:23:00.004-04:002009-08-11T18:50:06.759-04:00Pie and CakeCheck out these beauties. I bet they make delicious pie.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwHuPIZ0I/AAAAAAAAARA/ZPFINmH8zhs/s1600-h/100_3901.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368836246263588674" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwHuPIZ0I/AAAAAAAAARA/ZPFINmH8zhs/s320/100_3901.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Better taste test just to be sure.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwIP4aTZI/AAAAAAAAARQ/HUmhkzvI530/s1600-h/100_3908.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368836255295098258" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwIP4aTZI/AAAAAAAAARQ/HUmhkzvI530/s320/100_3908.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Add some spices.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwHz8h8lI/AAAAAAAAARI/2-US3Zj1GiY/s1600-h/100_3904.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368836247796183634" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwHz8h8lI/AAAAAAAAARI/2-US3Zj1GiY/s320/100_3904.JPG" /></a><br /><br />There were some technical difficulties with the crust. Generally a good sign that things will taste good, even if they aren't all that pretty. Maybe I should say that it was a hand-crafted pie.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwIZDj5-I/AAAAAAAAARY/cuR89tf3klQ/s1600-h/100_3910.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368836257757784034" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwIZDj5-I/AAAAAAAAARY/cuR89tf3klQ/s320/100_3910.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Yep, it was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span>-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">licious</span>!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHxlcFn1CI/AAAAAAAAARw/Vxv_ThPcIdU/s1600-h/100_3932.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368837856299570210" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHxlcFn1CI/AAAAAAAAARw/Vxv_ThPcIdU/s320/100_3932.JPG" /></a><br /><br />4 layer yellow cake with chocolate frosting. I rarely make layer cakes so this was something new. It's a touch lopsided. *note the pretty backdrop.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwIs3flYI/AAAAAAAAARg/z6KKkwpDdRw/s1600-h/100_3916.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368836263075878274" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHwIs3flYI/AAAAAAAAARg/z6KKkwpDdRw/s320/100_3916.JPG" /></a><br /><br />layers are a bit uneven but not to shabby for a first attempt.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHxlkRZANI/AAAAAAAAAR4/YMmguP8dgCs/s1600-h/100_3933.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368837858496413906" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHxlkRZANI/AAAAAAAAAR4/YMmguP8dgCs/s320/100_3933.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Here is the "backdrop" I mentioned earlier. I asked Darren to take a picture of the cake and rather than move it to a clear area of counter he just snaps some random picture (it has been deleted). I may have mentioned something about making it look pretty and taking into consideration the area around it and the picture having a good backdrop. He disappears and comes back with this piece of cardboard packaging from a recent toy purchase. I had saved it because it was cute and I thought we could find some cool use for it...little did I know.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHxk5HdeBI/AAAAAAAAARo/WH8RUoqvf-Q/s1600-h/100_3917.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368837846912038930" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w08k7IowmYs/SoHxk5HdeBI/AAAAAAAAARo/WH8RUoqvf-Q/s320/100_3917.JPG" /></a>Marciehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00121125083125805270noreply@blogger.com0