tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53250462117425300122024-03-05T11:13:04.532-07:00Antidotes for MomReal Life Stay at Home Mom, With Real Struggles, Who is trying to Be the Change She Needs. "Counteracting the Poison, One Day at a Time."Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-66600425208342858812013-12-04T15:30:00.001-07:002013-12-04T15:30:53.194-07:00Fried Ravioli's: Dinner Made EasyWe are kind of burnt out on the same old pasta dinners. Spaghetti, lasagna, and Alfredo. To be honest, I tried ravioli's a few times and I just couldn't seem to get over the fact that I chased them around my plate and the texture was just a little too--slippery for me. My husband didn't particularly care for them either.<br />
<br />
Actually, while we're being honest, he is completely over spaghetti as well. Chalk it up to poor college students living off of it for too long I guess.<br />
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I was given Fried Ravioli's at a friends party one night and to be honest, before I politely took a bite, I was haunted by that weird texture and experience by the last time I'd eaten one. BUT--this was a wonderfully pleasant surprise!<br />
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So much, that I decided to make them myself! Even my spaghetti-skeptic husband was thrilled!<br />
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How easy are these to make? Well, my four year old can make them (he can prep them-I don't allow him to cook with the hot oil.).<br />
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What you need:<br />
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1 Bag Store Bought Ravioli's (any kind)<br />
Italian Breadcrumbs<br />
Whole Milk or Heavy Cream<br />
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Take the ravioli's and dip them into the milk/cream.<br />
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Cover with Italian bread crumbs.<br />
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Fried 1-3 minutes on each side in hot oil, until golden brown.<br />
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Serve with marinara sauce.<br />
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See-I told you it was easy!<br />
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<br />
Check out my other easy recipes!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/sloppy-cheeseburgers.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGm8k_zhBlIWzryimd3JrhPBLqNjrTKxwY4jPHbLuKDW3e__qPflBFhciCzzu3RuYs0pWrNAyPZ39Dp_DtBGFx-OBhaShkV8DuXzN2FSVJhKhUIpWUXUBfkiUk29V6kuNKPoyB58p9tCq/s320/IMG_1202.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/sloppy-cheeseburgers.html">Sloppy Cheeseburgers</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/easy-white-chicken-spinach-pizza.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3J6QjhQO6atkCAaAOFof9J3oGeDPZoB6gUqZqfJlho2c_p95q4_2xDB-SiqwB5y6RBjO4PPoHEudE8OquPnBZ5nV2e13axbVomBhsDzP2734KlKU44xATvSmnpROLCUnaqCYkoqTPZsp/s320/IMG_1586.jpg" width="239" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/easy-white-chicken-spinach-pizza.html">Easy Spinch & Chicken Pizza</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/carmel-apple-cider.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYovBD6UHyRARVoi0M1koIg0e2a4iiI_miXhx6dNGwzL_HfqJ3TOdu23q3hxvp0aUp4WgZWpN3Ai0jfnOAX1IDbrmb2W3_pnd0aTJvRSdGFd703dDukpRg0nzimuQNFXp7jZuYsiMetuX6/s320/IMG_1645.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/carmel-apple-cider.html">Carmel Apple Cider</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-28570906800664901312013-12-04T14:57:00.000-07:002013-12-04T14:59:43.799-07:00Feeding The People, Children's Ministry LessonWith the holidays upon us, we are very into the giving spirit! But then again, we do that year round.<br />
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We love to give and serve. By doing this we really show each other what love is.<br />
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I feel, you're never too young to start.<br />
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<br />
I thought this lesson was really fun! We used the story of Jesus Feds 5,000 people.<br />
We used Matthew 14:13-21 (NLT)<br />
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Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick.<br />
That evening the disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away so they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves."<br />
But Jesus said, "That isn't necessary - you feed them."<br />
"But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish!" they answered.<br />
"Bring them here, he said.<br />
Then he told the people to sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he gave the bread to the disciples who distributed it to the people.<br />
They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelves baskets of leftovers.<br />
About 5,000 men were fed that day, in addition to all the women and children!<br />
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I had baked a whole bunch of sugar cookies to bring to class to be decorated and handed out. (A few to be eaten as a snack as well!)<br />
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Each of the children decorated about 3-5 cookies each.<br />
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After each cookie was decorated, we prayed over the cookies and blessed them.<br />
<br />
Then, just as the disciples started to hand out the food that Jesus had given, the children had to pick people to hand the cookies out too, after class.<br />
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They couldn't all be handed out to one family member, but each child choose a few different people in the church to pass out their goodies too!<br />
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Everyone was blessed by the kind outreach of the children! Like I said, never too early to start!<br />
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If you've enjoyed this lesson, like we did, check out some of my other children's lessons!</div>
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/12/finding-your-flock-childrens-ministry.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxEU6ZQ3srRDnKRoc8vHo7iOytLsGOras7s_BBKqflHSfo4kWTaR0_vFNh37e5Bj0i7v4Zy3qAUPHeL7cUDC1ORF48QQzjpTbpx_B6H6NOT9YRzJbSJtBMblgZhUGQlYqrzbTrlxnhk1b/s320/IMG_2662.JPG" width="262" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/08/breaking-chains-in-jesus-name-childrens.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVuy8knjlG9NlUALQe_nqwJGlNrRaHv7709fBYRlCGxBZDeEeSAbVx8h7KFvhmY7R7i0u-uVW7PMV4jre2wFDn0njwUNXy1hyphenhyphenZjLB969T6TD5xyfLWg4q6mmGStmXio9hH2_hPujWVeGpZ/s320/Breaking+Chains.jpg" width="269" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/07/childrens-ministry-jesus-gets-excited.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupBBt9KgWKtYa_qJbQJMyEvbpuu4x8mJONcFr9oWyznXvFvG45fuPBEVAUSqB_mRd_DvV_4JP45Zud5G266AerCv7kuvqd1w50OvgdkOZjaekNH2nYkL_oMGxjEAZnpv_izhbNMBifV70/s320/Excited.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-lamb-of-god-craft-for-kids.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p3z9XZZfMOty9P8I98la1KCl0OKgHHQJx0hfxToFN5Jt0gOLJjx5FAUZO7TGjRnCOQo-PHiAG7GIkJBqPEQq9ob6dpGPTzBm_L3nmycgZcJ9hA_8Tug0pj013f-8nlUHxYw76d4aDev0/s320/IMG_1358.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-lamb-of-god-craft-for-kids.html">Lamb of God Craft</a></td></tr>
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<br />Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-78959707831280459462013-12-04T14:17:00.001-07:002013-12-04T14:22:32.199-07:00Finding Your Flock, Children's Ministry Lesson<br />
I know it's been a long time since I've done any posting. I mean a LOOOOOOOOONG time. We've legitimately been quite busy. Good busy. Productive busy.<br />
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I've also become really involved in our amazing local church. I love it! Our kids love it! We all love it!<br />
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I have been having a lot of fun creating fun lessons for the kids. Hands on activities to help relate the stories.<br />
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Here is one that went over really, REALLY well!<br />
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Jesus is our Shepherd. We are the flock.<br />
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John 10:14-16 (NLT)<br />
"I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me,<br />
just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep."<br />
<br />
Luke 15:3-5 (NLT)<br />
So Jesus told them this story:<br />
"If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them gets lost, what will he do? Won't he leave the ninety-nine others in the wilderness and go to search for the one that is lost until he finds it?<br />
And when he has found it, he will joyfully carry it home on his shoulders."<br />
<br />
After talking to the kids about Jesus being our shepherd. How a good shepherd always looks after his flock and takes care of them. Protecting them, and providing for them. If one gets lost, he always goes looking for them.<br />
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I dyed cotton balls all different colors. See below.<br />
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After the story and the discussion, I put all the different colors of cotton balls into a paper bag and let the kids each pick one.<br />
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That color "cotton ball" was actually their color of sheep. They had a "missing" herd hidden all over the room and they were in charge of going and collecting all of their lost sheep.<br />
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The kids really enjoyed finding them, and not only that, they really took care to help out one another.<br />
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After all the sheep had been collected, we played a few more games with them sheep.<br />
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We played "Popcorn Sheep." Where all the sheep get tossed into the air, and everyone has to gather their sheep as fast as they can.<br />
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We also had a little relay where we put the sheep at one end of the room and their cups or "homes" at the other end. They were allowed to race each other and only pick up one sheep at a time and bring it home.<br />
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After you play all the games of finding your herds of sheep, follow up with the questions of what a shepherd is and does, and how Jesus is our amazing shepherd.<br />
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Hope you've enjoyed this lesson!<br />
<br />
Check out the other kids ministry lessons I've got on my blog!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/08/breaking-chains-in-jesus-name-childrens.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVuy8knjlG9NlUALQe_nqwJGlNrRaHv7709fBYRlCGxBZDeEeSAbVx8h7KFvhmY7R7i0u-uVW7PMV4jre2wFDn0njwUNXy1hyphenhyphenZjLB969T6TD5xyfLWg4q6mmGStmXio9hH2_hPujWVeGpZ/s320/Breaking+Chains.jpg" width="269" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You have the POWER!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/07/childrens-ministry-jesus-gets-excited.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupBBt9KgWKtYa_qJbQJMyEvbpuu4x8mJONcFr9oWyznXvFvG45fuPBEVAUSqB_mRd_DvV_4JP45Zud5G266AerCv7kuvqd1w50OvgdkOZjaekNH2nYkL_oMGxjEAZnpv_izhbNMBifV70/s320/Excited.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/07/childrens-ministry-jesus-gets-excited.html">Prayer Excitment</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-lamb-of-god-craft-for-kids.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p3z9XZZfMOty9P8I98la1KCl0OKgHHQJx0hfxToFN5Jt0gOLJjx5FAUZO7TGjRnCOQo-PHiAG7GIkJBqPEQq9ob6dpGPTzBm_L3nmycgZcJ9hA_8Tug0pj013f-8nlUHxYw76d4aDev0/s320/IMG_1358.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb of God Craft</td></tr>
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<br />Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-13321127906982760772013-08-12T17:20:00.000-06:002013-08-12T17:34:24.456-06:00Breaking the Chains in Jesus' Name: Children's Ministry Lesson/Craft<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I've really started to get involved with my local church and I absolutely love it. I've never felt better, and more secure about who I am and what I am supposed to be doing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">As David once said, "One day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I'd rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God, than live the good life in the homes of the wicked." (Psalm 84:10 NLT)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Serving in the Children's Ministry, just helps me to keep my focus and priority on God. I love him, and this is how I can show him that I do. I can serve his people with gladness.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Ok, so with that, I was blessed with this idea about using Jesus Name to Break the Chains in our lives.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Have you ever heard that song <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOyjD5Zw2ew">Break Every Chain,</a> by Jesus Culture? You should. Click on the title for the YouTube link. For me, I find it to be a very powerful song.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPYfngwA78Ufxd4pRdrtxAHAf5wOch94Y34rXNr4OiLHSJzlEk_inbvM-2Nz197lN1hWecGUdTP7LVXRb2HYHuo54A9JNUG-qN_mcasF7Jx6A0eUTdX5p0RsOqq2IUiz1bq5sfUue_3zp/s1600/0002ke.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPYfngwA78Ufxd4pRdrtxAHAf5wOch94Y34rXNr4OiLHSJzlEk_inbvM-2Nz197lN1hWecGUdTP7LVXRb2HYHuo54A9JNUG-qN_mcasF7Jx6A0eUTdX5p0RsOqq2IUiz1bq5sfUue_3zp/s640/0002ke.jpeg" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lyrics to the Song</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">There is power in the name of Jesus, to break every chain! Powerful, isn't it! Praise the Lord for that ability! Can you ever learn that soon enough?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I wanted to teach the children about being able to use the power and authority of Jesus name. How we, as believers, are more than over comers.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are so many bible verses to look at where it talks about using Jesus name for power and authority. I chose these two as an example, and yes, there are more and probably better ones to use, but I chose these two.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I have really started to enjoy looking at the meanings of words. Especially in how they apply to the bible. I looked up the the English and Greek words for power and defined them.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Each kid, got a copy of all three of these items. We read them aloud and discussed them as a class. I wanted them to understand how to apply this to them. I remember when I was younger, that I would read something and sometimes I never really took the time to understand what it was I actually read. Then other times, I just kind of sat puzzled at what I had just read and then dismissed looking into it further.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">After we had talked about the verse and what it means to have the power to use Jesus name, we then applied it to breaking the chains!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We made up 20 paper chains before hand (we used craft glue to hold them together, because we thought staples might pose a cut risk).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We handed all the kids a few strands of chains, and had them name something they wanted broken off of their life. For example, one was afraid of the dark.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">With his chain in hand we said together with him, "I break the chain of fear in the name of Jesus," and then he pulled apart the chain.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Of course, with kids, just pulling it apart isn't enough, they had to completely rip the chain to shreds. Which was completely fine by me!!!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">BTW-If you LOVE the shirt, check out <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94087947/charlie-brown-inspired-halloween-costume">Sweet Pea ala Mode's shop</a>!!!!</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">After all the chains had been broken we took all the remnants and threw them up in the air like party confetti! We just celebrated the fact that we had destroyed the chains and burdens in our lives. What an awesome day!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We all had such a wonderful time, and I hope that if you can use this activity and event for your church, that you enjoy it as much as we did!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Let me know if you enjoyed this, or have ideas to make them better! I love being able to share with all of you!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">You should!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Need other Children's Ministry Ideas? See Below!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/07/childrens-ministry-jesus-gets-excited.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupBBt9KgWKtYa_qJbQJMyEvbpuu4x8mJONcFr9oWyznXvFvG45fuPBEVAUSqB_mRd_DvV_4JP45Zud5G266AerCv7kuvqd1w50OvgdkOZjaekNH2nYkL_oMGxjEAZnpv_izhbNMBifV70/s320/Excited.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-lamb-of-god-craft-for-kids.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p3z9XZZfMOty9P8I98la1KCl0OKgHHQJx0hfxToFN5Jt0gOLJjx5FAUZO7TGjRnCOQo-PHiAG7GIkJBqPEQq9ob6dpGPTzBm_L3nmycgZcJ9hA_8Tug0pj013f-8nlUHxYw76d4aDev0/s320/IMG_1358.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb of God Craft</td></tr>
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Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-75706834988616425902013-07-18T08:45:00.002-06:002013-07-18T08:45:46.590-06:00I've Changed My Mind<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCiqehBEG1HAg0X_5YPz9xxygRFAra7j6eZqRZdINqSGfD-8ntRucoltgYZMrNWvMlzPFvox_8BjYg-uk2vWRxW1cnx-sO_YV6SozncdWjR1TDczg2AVSwBoWGqMSm3bP_RMzm94LLpySo/s1600/Change+My+Mind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCiqehBEG1HAg0X_5YPz9xxygRFAra7j6eZqRZdINqSGfD-8ntRucoltgYZMrNWvMlzPFvox_8BjYg-uk2vWRxW1cnx-sO_YV6SozncdWjR1TDczg2AVSwBoWGqMSm3bP_RMzm94LLpySo/s640/Change+My+Mind.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Over the past year, well, really two years, I've been under going a caterpillar like transformation.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I've become an adult. Like, a real one. Having children, buying a house, being married-the whole package. Um, reverse that order.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I've also learned that I've got incredible power and strength. I've found out that I'm an amazing person. I'm not saying this to sound arrogant or proud, I'm saying this because it's true of all of us!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I noticed during the beginning parts of being a mom, when all those sleepless nights seemed to drag on for weeks, months and even years, that I just kind of was lost.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I felt at times, I wanted to be joyful, but found myself being hateful and jealous instead.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I would see photos of other people on family vacations on Facebook, and as much as I wanted to be happy for them, I just sat there and was just so jealous!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Jealous is an evil thing. No good comes from it. I am a big runner, so let me put this analogy into a form that I can relate.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">When I found myself in jealous feelings and thought, I realized that, for me, it was like running circles around a track. The two mile, or even the one mile run around the track, just kind of sucked for me. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The two mile was always the first even at our track meets. This event always seemed to be the one no one cared about, and honestly, I always kind of felt like someone was just kind of laughing at me as I would pass them and do laps.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just like a track, running circles in a hamster wheel gets you no where.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Jealous is a lot like that-you keep circling around and around and around. You keep seeing the same things and keep feeling the same things and it never gets better. You're in the unloved event. Sometimes it seems like it's the most pointless two miles ever. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Every once in a while, you'd have a friend try and cheer you on for a few laps, but they never really stayed for the whole course. I can't say I blame them. It gets old.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">So does feeling and thinking jealously.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I've learned on those days, when I was running around the jealousy track, that Bitterness and Hate would <b><i>always </i></b>show up to be my only cheerleaders. The Enemy at his finest. You know, when that's who you have cheering you on, you find that you will run yourself into the ground. When you cross the finish line and turn back to look at them, they're both just standing there clapping their hands, laughing at you. See it doesn't bother Bitterness or Hate. In fact, they loved it! They knew the longer you circled around that track and them, the worse off you'd feel when you finally stopped, and they knew exactly how you'd affect everyone else in your life because of it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>They're really sneaky. </b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I was absolutely tired of letting something so small and insignificant steal my joy. Besides, there will always be someone who has a "nicer" house, "better" car, "more talent," and so on and so forth.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Besides stealing my joy about life, I noticed that I was poisoning my relationships around me. I wasn't being thankful for the amazing job my <b><i>God</i></b> does at providing for us. I wasn't thankful to husband for all his hard work, that he does every day.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I needed to start transforming my mind! I found Dr. Caroline Leaf's program-<a href="http://21daybraindetox.com/">The 21 Day Brain Detox.</a> Wow! <a href="http://www.tfc.org/sermon/message:i-changed-my-mind-pt-3-1">I watched this video on her first</a>, and I was just floored. She explains amazing scientific discoveries in a very simple way!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The toxic thoughts we have in our brains, like jealousy, hate and all the rest of the negative junk, affect our brains AND bodies in a negative way! But, we as amazing, God created beings, can actually change the way we think!! We are not victims about how our brain thinks, WE CONTROL OUR BRAINS! Not the other way around.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I thought, "This is exactly what I need!" I started this program two months ago and I have absolutely noticed a huge difference!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I have been able to completely kill of those thoughts of jealousy. I have noticed that I am so much happier for EVERYONE! Including myself.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I can see people that get a new home and think, "That's just so awesome for them! They totally needed it!"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Someone else gets a new job I can easily say, "I'm so thankful that God blessed them and they have something so wonderful!" And most importantly, I sincerely mean all of those things. I can say it with a heart filled smile. It isn't generic. It is genuine.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Day by day, with her program I totally started to see myself killing all these nasty things.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Again, using a running analogy, I ran cross country as well. With feelings and thoughts of Jealousy, it was like running two miles around a circle track. You never went anywhere. You just finished and felt tired and exhausted and just "Eh."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">But, after starting and finishing this program, I noticed that it was a lot like a cross country race. I may have run two miles, but I got to see so many cool things along the way. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_FGenpR_askcZY92eaapNHkWwQBhM1QTY-wIpe07oAkMq3ss3VB4Zh4TlmMZZG-x_gwtvLwsHGFowrti8S88CFSMJAC94GNOGHiSVeH70v_9Xxdyhsrcgqx6UG-b8Y7IQsWXJ3RYfPMV/s1600/Road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_FGenpR_askcZY92eaapNHkWwQBhM1QTY-wIpe07oAkMq3ss3VB4Zh4TlmMZZG-x_gwtvLwsHGFowrti8S88CFSMJAC94GNOGHiSVeH70v_9Xxdyhsrcgqx6UG-b8Y7IQsWXJ3RYfPMV/s640/Road.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful possibilities of countryside.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Sometimes, when I was running, I would find myself so amazed at the landscape that it was hard not to be drawn to the beauty of the countryside. Or laugh at a cow that you'd just passed by!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">In cross country races you'd find yourself running up and downhills, around buildings, going here there every where! Kind of like a Dr. Seuss book. I remembered when I finished the race I had such a sense of accomplishment and it was always fun to see all the different people cheering you on! No one got bored watching you run circles, no-your friends would run to keep up with you! They'd race around the track to keep cheering you on.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">When you were done, you were smiles. You knew where you started and you knew exactly how far you'd gone. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">That's what this program does. It takes you on a journey-it helps you conquer your hills and it cheers you on along the way. I makes you enjoy the journey and discover things along the way that make you realize how awesome and how much power you really have!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Additionally, you help to change the people around you. When you start to become a non-jealous person, filled with positive thoughts, you attract more people to you. People who want that feeling too!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I'm already almost done with my second toxic thought and I can't wait to just keep continuing my positive journey! Life doesn't seem to be the rat race it once was. I have an incredible sense of peace now. Joy. God has truly blessed me and my family! I have fully started to appreciate all his Glory and Wonder for our lives and those around us! What an amazing thing to feel.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">If you are struggling with these same types of thoughts, try this program! I promise you, you will see the difference in your life!!! This might be one of those things that I need to "giveaway," on my blog, because this is really what my life and journey on here has been all about.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Be the change that needs to happen. Be the change for someone else. Let's help each other!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Have you had thoughts that you've struggled with that just affect your whole life? Your relationships? Do you ever just feel tired of thinking and feeling that way? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I'd love to hear your stories or comments. Have you heard of her program and tried it?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">You should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Please feel free to check out some of my other posts!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-23103606858736092992013-07-11T13:52:00.001-06:002013-07-11T13:57:46.852-06:00Children's Ministry: Jesus Gets Excited When We Pray!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmUSJjfbaEkTvMRKRBRUV9UHIzEHu4JA1kOuz7O_6GQK0hYIzNiuMCHpCpjpuX6SJT_hR02o0OkiyP9_sfyfqGnWR6HQ6lekZi30kHAcr9YmUo6cl03cfvE45UbhCyJxIoarRVPMk7_9p/s1600/Excited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmUSJjfbaEkTvMRKRBRUV9UHIzEHu4JA1kOuz7O_6GQK0hYIzNiuMCHpCpjpuX6SJT_hR02o0OkiyP9_sfyfqGnWR6HQ6lekZi30kHAcr9YmUo6cl03cfvE45UbhCyJxIoarRVPMk7_9p/s640/Excited.jpg" width="502" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Looking for some fun lessons for teaching children (and getting them excited!) about Jesus, can kind of be difficult. Especially when you have children in your classroom that can range in age from three months to almost 6th grade.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I found this on Pinterest- <a href="http://flamecreativekids.blogspot.co.uk/p/childrens-favourites.html">Fizzy Forgiveness Prayer Station.</a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">What I really loved about this was the fact that you can take something relatively easy to find (fizzy tablets) and turned it into something really cool!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Kids <i><b>LOVE</b></i> fizz. Even I as an adult, feel child like exuberance when I see fizz. There is something just so awesome about effervescence. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I took this fizz idea and made it my own. Sometimes to come up with a cool idea, we just need a little help from above-and others!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">My lesson was to teach children about prayer. I don't think you can stress enough, the importance of building a strong relationship with our Lord. Prayer does this along with reading His word.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Welcome to the lesson of:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b> "Jesus Gets Excited When You Pray!"</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I used 1 Timothy 2:1-6 (NLT). I wanted to stress that Jesus hears all prayers, not just prayers that come from adults, and we should pray for everyone!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Also, I wanted the children to understand what praying actually means. I looked up and printed out the definition, and some easier words, to help describe what it means to pray.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">After we took turns reading and discussion what prayer means and how it applies to the verse I showed the kids what happens when we pray.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I used two glasses and filled them with some regular tap water and for extra "fizz" some sparkling water.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I went to our local City Market and bought these Alka Seltzer generic tablets. We got 30 tables for roughly $2. I wanted to make sure we had enough for two child, at the very least.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I allowed the children to pick what color we would make the water-they chose green, purple. My children at home chose orange.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6z3rbt6D91D25DtRuK3PS87VxhbtCR_P3FddZ9D7I74xEV2EPkf2Ca70sMMrxjvS8tXM33PyZqBDxdio5JPoO2JbD8s-FcfxzDD94HHGOnM17RkPWHsXqMqkN-7_JIcuS_6qjZItKhUFs/s1600/IMG_1945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6z3rbt6D91D25DtRuK3PS87VxhbtCR_P3FddZ9D7I74xEV2EPkf2Ca70sMMrxjvS8tXM33PyZqBDxdio5JPoO2JbD8s-FcfxzDD94HHGOnM17RkPWHsXqMqkN-7_JIcuS_6qjZItKhUFs/s640/IMG_1945.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I had them gather around and I said, "Tell me how this makes you feel." I dropped a tablet into the water and it immediately began to fizz.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">The excitement on their faces was extremely evident and also, they said it was pretty cool.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I asked them if it was exciting to watch the fizz, and they all said, "Yes!"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I told them, that every time we pray to Jesus, that's how he feels. He feels excited, because we're building a relationship with him. We're talking to him, we're including him in our lives. Jesus loves us so much and he wants to be a part of our lives.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I handed each kid two tablets (there are two in each pack) and said that each one of us could pray together for someone or about something in their lives. I also gave them personal discretion that if they didn't feel comfortable praying out loud, we would just pray in agreement silently with them.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">To watch the kids pray with excitement was just amazing! I know it partly had to do with the fizzy tablets they got to play with, but we also got to watch them gain understanding that praying is a good thing. Praying can be fun!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">If it's fun to go to the movies, shouldn't it be fun to spend time praying to God too? I think so!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Also, I told the kids, after we had gotten into a few prayers, that we needed to be quiet and listen. They could hear the fizzing noise in action. I said sometimes that's how God works. He answers our prayers, but sometimes we have to be quiet and listen. God is a gentleman and he never forces us to do anything.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">At the end of the class, I allowed the kids to save up their fizzes and they all dropped their remaining ones in together to see if they could over flow the water (which of course they managed to do! I'm pretty sure that was the one silent prayer we had!!).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We finished up the lesson with another coloring page from <a href="http://twistynoodle.com/jesus-hears-all-my-prayers-worksheet/">TwistyNoodle!</a> I mentioned them before in our <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-lamb-of-god-craft-for-kids.html">Lamb of God </a>lesson we did over Resurrection Sunday.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I hope you found this fun and can some how use it to teach your kids about how awesome and amazing Jesus Christ is!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Just an FYI-I have a few left over tablets and I kept the orange glass out for our kids, and when they pray I let them drop a fizz into the water. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Make sure to monitor your kids too! If you use the alka seltzer tablets, make sure they don't eat them or drink the water that you use. I'm not sure what exactly could happen, but we don't need to try to imagine it either!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Have fun sharing and learning about God! I'd love to hear your ideas or how you've incorporated this into your own lessons and teaching!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">You should!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Stick around and check out some of my other blog posts! Leave a comment, too!</span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-68688041077276344892013-07-06T14:29:00.003-06:002013-07-08T12:46:16.449-06:00Colorado Summer Staycation/Bucket List<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We're a family of four. Two little ones and two adults. We have crossed over the line in flights, where there are no more "free" lap children in our homes. If you've never flown this means, that each seat we buy will cost us at least $300(+) to go some where. (There are no discounts for children.)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Like a lot of other families, we're sticking close to home. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We live in Colorado and there is so much to do here! Even as an adult that has lived here for over ten years, I still haven't even scratched the surface of exploring our state and all it has to offer! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">This summer I kind of had a "bucket list" of things to do and experience with the kids. I even have a few "wish list" ideas I'd love to experience with my husband. I have girls weekend ideas also.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">A few of these are pretty simple, and some of them just need a little bit more logistical planning. But, none the less, if you're thinking of coming to Colorado, and aren't sure where to go or start, look at a few of my ideas for what to do while you're here!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">There are always the same big ideas that come to mind when you think of Colorado vacation-white water rafting, zoos, aquariums, mountains, fishing and camping.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Here are ones that I'd love to do with the kids:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Fishing.</u></b> (I know, easy isn't it?)</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LmWKmYZfOIhoUDiNqueFtZzFiVG6V4iyOUoFDvKG7HtUBoMola3WaDfC9v2GGnP_nmlZOsCbRkP55MODRM04_WKHoBnRH7i5eBlpEmJhdr40VhyphenhyphenITZS9NgS2gFspmLFWxbgtmsptxVqW/s1600/Train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LmWKmYZfOIhoUDiNqueFtZzFiVG6V4iyOUoFDvKG7HtUBoMola3WaDfC9v2GGnP_nmlZOsCbRkP55MODRM04_WKHoBnRH7i5eBlpEmJhdr40VhyphenhyphenITZS9NgS2gFspmLFWxbgtmsptxVqW/s320/Train.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Take a train ride.</u></b> There are a few different places in the state that you can accomplish this. You can always get a ticket on AmTrack, or you can do a fun mountain ride all over Colorado using one of these amazing railroad companies: <a href="http://www.leadville-train.com/">Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad</a>, <a href="https://www.royalgorgeroute.com/">Royal Gorge Route Railroad</a>, <a href="http://www.durangotrain.com/">Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad</a>, and <a href="http://georgetownlooprr.com/">Georgetown Loop Railroad</a>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We are so lucky to have so many unique locations for railroad rides! Even in the fall and winter months, a few of these trains provide amazing views and one even does a "Polar Express" ride! (When the kids are a few years older, we'll take them on that Polar Express Excursion. That movie/book is one of their favorites!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b style="text-decoration: underline;">Mountain Tram rides with a possible cave tour.</b> We've never taken our kids up on top of the mountains. We've driven around them and looked at all the fall foliage, but we've never experienced a gondola/tram ride with them.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We have several that are very close to us, and one that offers a cool cave tour as well! <a href="http://glenwoodcaverns.com/">Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park</a> is a really, REALLY cool place to check out. Take a tram ride up to the top and check out the amazing cave tour that promises stalactites and stalagmites galore! Plus, no matter what time of year it is, it's always a consistent temperature of 52 degrees, year round!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">They also have an assortment of thrill rides that include an Alpine Coaster (that you can ride with your three year old!), and the <a href="http://glenwoodcaverns.com/cliffhanger-roller-coaster.html">Cliffhanger Roller Coaster</a>, which happens to be the highest elevation roller coaster in North America!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><u><b></b></u><b><u>Visit the Zoo and Aquarium!</u></b> The kids loved this last year. So did I, actually. But, this year, we've vowed to NOT go over the Fourth of July, when it's 100 degrees out. The animals don't really do anything when it is that hot out and neither do humans. While we visited <a href="http://www.denverzoo.org/">Denver Zoo</a> last year, this year we are hoping to check out The <a href="http://www.cmzoo.org/">Cheyenne Mountain Zoo</a>, in Colorado Springs. We have heard so many wonderful things about this zoo, and it's only $2 to feed the giraffes! (I LOVE giraffes, so I will definitely be spending the extra $2 to partake in this awesome experience!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We only have one aquarium here in Colorado and our experience with it last year wasn't great, we visited the <a href="http://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumdenver/">Downtown Denver Aquarium</a>. But that was mostly because again, it was over Fourth of July, it was unbelievably packed and someone should have told us NOT to bring in our double jogging stroller. The kids couldn't move in and out between the people and, honestly, neither could we. So, we pushed through all the exhibits so quickly because we couldn't see that we didn't really enjoy it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">This year, I'm planning for a different day and time, and NO stroller! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Bowling.</u></b> Yea, that one seems a little weird doesn't it? But, I live in the desert. It can easily be 100 degrees here in the afternoon, and 90 degrees by nine o'clock in the morning. With little shade, and it highly advised that between 11 a.m and 4 p.m. we avoid a lot of direct sun for significant period of times.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Bowling is an indoor activity that still requires you to do some actions, and honestly, I loved doing this as a child! I also loved roller skating as a child, and we have a new roller skating rink that is opening up here that I am super excited to try out for date night!! Who else remembers skate-dancing in the 80's????</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">That for right now pretty much sums up my "kids" to do list. I also have a "parents" one as well.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">While we are off doing a lot of these things for us and the kids to enjoy, we also try to plan for things for us as well.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">What are some of those things on that list? We LOVE watching <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/diners-drive-ins-and-dives/index.html">Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.</a> Last year, as we planned our trip to Denver, we also looked up a few of these <a href="http://www.flavortownusa.com/">Triple D visited restaurants</a>. You can check it out by state, so if you're road tripping any where, you can plan your breakfast, lunch and dinner stops accordingly. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">While our youngest had just turned 1, we still wanted it to be fun for all of us. My husband and I honestly had a wonderful time doing this!! The kids were happy with whatever they had, but we got a chance to experience some food that was really fun and funky at times! I think that was probably the best part of our vacation last year, for him. He enjoyed himself so much that this year, he actually talks about going to a few new places to try out their famous specials.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u><a href="http://www.drivenexperiences.com/">Pro Baja Truck Rental</a></u></b>. Ok, this is definitely more for my husband, but I just wanted to show you how extremely diverse Colorado was. Down at Gateway Canyons Resort, they offer a one of a kind Baja Truck Rental experience that can only be found in the likes of other places like California, or Las Vegas. This is a one of a kind experience that is sure to bring a smile to every man's face. (as long as he enjoys this type of high thrill activity!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Spa Day.</u> Yea, mom is usually really pretty easy! A fun, relaxing spa day with an outdoor massage, facial and total pampering (followed by lunch and long deserved, non disturbed nap) with a friend or three would be the perfect way to help celebrate a day of vacation/staycation!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">This list could literally go on forever and ever, depending on the towns you pick to visit and additional things you choose to add on to it. The biggest thing to remember when it comes to summer vacation/staycations to allow extra time for everything and try not to pack it full. Sometimes the best part of the adventure is just enjoying the moments you find yourself in. Even when you don't stick to the schedule.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Life is about enjoying the time you have with the people you're given. Not about how much stuff you squeeze in. Some of my favorite memories with people I love, happened with the weirdest, unplanned, accidents/incidents. Like taking a bus and getting lost in a different part of town. Finding yourself at a restaurant that was closed and searching for something fun and better instead. Finding yourself in a different part of the world, because you allowed yourself just to have fun and go with it. Trust God, he knows how to have a GREAT time on a family vacation!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Romans 15:13 ESV</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I'd love to hear some of your summer Colorado favorites for families!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">You Should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Check out some of my other posts!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/kids-passport-domestic-only.html">Don't forget your children's Passport!</a></span><br />
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-30th-birthday.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Leave some love where ever you go!</span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-30th-birthday.html"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluec3V4UIjcWH-vWpJHrwPKF9wIEChIIesnRQx7yH8LnMfsw_kTYB7zvtgJr5XND_aaix4ymgf-mXqEfcYsTleSy9rc-b2n4IkiSLUZAXJ1uh5226WvH2qZ2oJyIoM2_BZ_-cbX_s1-kR/s320/30.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/flying-with-thanks.html">Flying with Kids!</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/flying-with-thanks.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ECWkPPP2Rjy94WpXPcD47XSgH-RkB2EC_-FdSPzuhtv8qRutCCHdsaeeCbtF9Lfnmkkgxm_AHqPOHASbBFpVb-HucZcRiel874e6rFiZ0ts75oO7k2bbNyW9U_PJWIwaqYubTENHHMqo/s320/IMG_0049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-80559522242536791962013-06-24T13:40:00.000-06:002013-06-24T16:07:13.367-06:00Cascade Platinum Review & Contest<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 25px;">I participated in a campaign on behalf of <a href="http://www.momcentralconsulting.com/" style="color: blue; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 25px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Mom Central Consulting</a> for Cascade. I received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating. There are links within this blog post back to Cascade and to Mom Central Consulting.</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9Knlf08KzjypT7_DNa-qOAkDhtTwhH9MJK0RrLacOX8NN0VLsmy7ruCqy-_t3OvdTHe2Ugr9b_Uql2nQK5ogwJyGyjk4Lwh_G4CVZwZJiKnyCDvFtOh7BJprc79uOBMW4euxUo-tf-nF/s1600/dishwasher+garbage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9Knlf08KzjypT7_DNa-qOAkDhtTwhH9MJK0RrLacOX8NN0VLsmy7ruCqy-_t3OvdTHe2Ugr9b_Uql2nQK5ogwJyGyjk4Lwh_G4CVZwZJiKnyCDvFtOh7BJprc79uOBMW4euxUo-tf-nF/s640/dishwasher+garbage.jpg" width="564" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i style="font-style: italic; line-height: 25px;"><br /></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">I'm a firm believer in not treating my dishwasher like it is a garbage disposal. I do this for the simple fact that it is indeed called a DISH-WASHER, not a garbage disposal.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">I've been to homes of people who feel that it is OK to leave that loaf of bread on the plate while it enters their dishwasher. Or that uneaten fat of the steak.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">I'm not sure why they think this, but they do. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">I also, have always been a "rinser," when it comes to my dishes. Honestly, I'm not even entirely sure why, but I do. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">I think it stems from the early years of dishwashers and how the detergent and water flow maybe never performed quite the way it does now.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">Which leads me to my actual post-I got to try out some of those new <b><a href="http://bit.ly/16Te3N5">Cascade Platinum Pacs!!</a></b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ0XbTIun07BoM402Tvwha6nrAvvxqq0IcvRjW9y_8SXiPLuCY9YL8KgSFxd2B7sWH9JBMMWMpNy3YhCf6aSWCZneYepIIx5ZcnUNn9Bbb_dK9jjY14pJabWXDSaauJSBbdZcYQVk00_xF/s1600/IMG_1859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ0XbTIun07BoM402Tvwha6nrAvvxqq0IcvRjW9y_8SXiPLuCY9YL8KgSFxd2B7sWH9JBMMWMpNy3YhCf6aSWCZneYepIIx5ZcnUNn9Bbb_dK9jjY14pJabWXDSaauJSBbdZcYQVk00_xF/s320/IMG_1859.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">I have definitely evolved over time. Starting first with powder when it came out for our dishwasher. Then the cool "gel" appeared on the store shelves and we moved to using that. The latest has been the pac movement. You've seen them for your dishwasher and your laundry, no doubt.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">It's quick and simple. No squeezing, eyeballing, overfilling, or dripping of the dishwasher gel anymore. Just pop a pac and go. Pretty simple.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">But then, <a href="http://bit.ly/16Te3N5">Cascade</a> went and did something even more awesome-they took those pacs and made it clean your dishes and your dishwasher <u><b>AT THE SAME TIME</b></u>!! (If you're <i><b>not</b></i> applauding right now, then you've never smelt a nasty dishwasher before.....)</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;">What are some of the benefits of using the <a href="http://bit.ly/16Te3N5">Cascade Platinum Pacs</a> you ask?? Let me tell you!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span>
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<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Scrubs away 24-hour stuck on food</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Eliminates the need to pre-rinse dishes</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Helps maintain the new look of machines</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Helps prevent additional hard water build up</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Delivers exceptional dishware shine</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Uses Dawn Dish Soap power</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">How did it perform for me? Let me show you.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhKeLIoD-r35f_YL3rhzBqZTxhWcXJM-tDkj7EVW6bcvk-cKFfa30lSO1AoDTObRoh8y-ru6clxDq5h1gUWcBr-I6nm2mVx2YCjnJZag4sI77QPk0ESzXKTK8V2Q9nBNsrTF58kiBvly2/s1600/IMG_1860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhKeLIoD-r35f_YL3rhzBqZTxhWcXJM-tDkj7EVW6bcvk-cKFfa30lSO1AoDTObRoh8y-ru6clxDq5h1gUWcBr-I6nm2mVx2YCjnJZag4sI77QPk0ESzXKTK8V2Q9nBNsrTF58kiBvly2/s320/IMG_1860.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxXa6YsDmsbgqLZNVXp3LrATyoBiCrToYvvhDwu9FqmdBU7X0jLZDXyuV-XVEWnu2A2F7nzeYs7hZHt4JhqW4qx3aD2PGaFlLRJ0HaPC6g-keCbgh3dHMcR69rRITzhETiR-MPZjYSM91/s1600/IMG_1872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxXa6YsDmsbgqLZNVXp3LrATyoBiCrToYvvhDwu9FqmdBU7X0jLZDXyuV-XVEWnu2A2F7nzeYs7hZHt4JhqW4qx3aD2PGaFlLRJ0HaPC6g-keCbgh3dHMcR69rRITzhETiR-MPZjYSM91/s320/IMG_1872.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2JdGkWQ-9edG133DECU01IH_S8-NQuN6CNje2Xc04MtAWEFCC9KEQR8UI1kO5LyMQeOMD1W_-kizzOmEOnRetPOTwMvi8UFvjX8NvpsJfq1wFt9KH8mrpGYbkWERTNYq38UiEIH8scxl/s1600/IMG_1882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2JdGkWQ-9edG133DECU01IH_S8-NQuN6CNje2Xc04MtAWEFCC9KEQR8UI1kO5LyMQeOMD1W_-kizzOmEOnRetPOTwMvi8UFvjX8NvpsJfq1wFt9KH8mrpGYbkWERTNYq38UiEIH8scxl/s320/IMG_1882.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">OK, the top photo doesn't really do it justice, but I resolved to NOT pre-rinse these dishes. Doing this was a little difficult for me. I had to "break out of the mold," so to speak.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">The True Love plate had peanut butter on it. While the peanut butter was reduced, it wasn't eliminated. <a href="http://bit.ly/16Te3N5">The Cascade Platinum Pacs</a> worked well on just about everything else. But, as always, peanut butter seems to be the exception to every rule! So, pre-rinse peanut butter, unless it is a light layer.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">How did my dishwasher look? Amazing!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">My dishwasher is over 5 years old, and it was really gross. The dishwasher had a lot of hard water stains. But, after a few uses, you could see the difference in a cleaner machine!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I like to use an item a lot before I give an honest review of it. What are my thoughts-these little guys are great! I've always been a user of Cascade. It has a been a brand, for me, that has proven itself over and over again. I believe, with the except of peanut butter, that I didn't have to scrub rinse my dishes, and they turned out sparkling clean. That will be saving me all the extra water and time I used to spend before loading the dishwasher. If you're wondering if they are a good product, they have my vote! I plan to purchase these after, they are all gone.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">How much are these awesome little guys?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">A 14-pac (the one I got) runs around $4.29, in cost. Roughly around $0.30 a load. Not too bad, and remember-it cleans your machine too! Doing double duty for the same price! No need to buy a separate cleaner for the machine. <b>This is a money saver!!</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Speaking of money, did you also know that <a href="http://on.fb.me/10Y8RQQ">Cascade</a> is running a giveaway?!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Click on the link below to win one of their awesome prizes! Or check out their Facebook Page, by clicking on the <a href="http://on.fb.me/10Y8RQQ">link here</a>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://tinyurl.com/PlatBlog">The Cascade #MyPlatinum contest</a> is a four-week Instagram contest encouraging fans to upload photos related to the weekly contest themes. Show off how sparkly Cascade makes all your pots, pans and plates!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://tinyurl.com/PlatBlog">#Myplatinum Instagram Contest!</a></span><br />
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Show Us YOUR Sparkle & Win!</h2>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blue" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #681c82; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">So show us how sparkly Cascade<sup style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">®</sup> makes all YOUR pots, pans, plates, glassware and silverware!</span></b></div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Enter<sup style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">†</sup> Cascade's #MyPlatinum Instagram Contest for a chance to win a <span class="blue" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #681c82; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">KitchenAid<sup style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">®</sup> Kitchen Makeover</span> and a 1-year supply of Cascade<sup style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">®</sup>! Weekly entries have a chance to win a<span class="blue" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #681c82; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">KitchenAid<sup style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">®</sup> Dishwasher</span> and six-month supply of Cascade<sup style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">®</sup>too!</b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I enjoy instagramming some of our meals. By using <a href="http://tinyurl.com/PlatBlog">Cascade Platinum </a>and some of <b><i>Top Chef </i></b>judge and editor of <b><i>Food+Wine</i></b> magazine, Gail Simmons suggestions, showing off our delicious dishes are made even more appealing! To see what else Gail has to offer about food and tips, visit <a href="http://on.fb.me/10Y8RQQ">Cascade's Facebook page</a>. Watch a few videos and learn how to apply some simple tips to your every day dishes!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Hope you've enjoyed my review and I also hope you're signed up for the contest! Enjoy!</span></div>
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Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-91220929406875292162013-05-31T07:49:00.001-06:002013-05-31T07:49:19.927-06:00Woolzies Dryer Ball Giveaway Winner...<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Thanks for all the entries and comments! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Now the moment we've all been waiting for!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The winner is..... <b>Kate C.!</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Please check your email! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">You have 24 hrs to respond from the time I emailed you! If you haven't responded in that time, I'll choose another winner!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Again, thanks for all the support and stay tuned for some more awesome giveaways!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-45312809525208353982013-05-24T12:01:00.002-06:002013-05-31T07:47:25.355-06:00Woolzies Dryer Balls Review and Giveaway!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*I was allowed to test the product for free, in return for giving an honest product review. Here it is. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: yellow; font-size: large;">*Update: Giveaway is over, but stay tuned for more!*</span></div>
<a href="http://www.woolzies.com/index.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Woolzie's Dryer Balls</b></span></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4brwcg8tQw6S1Ft1LYB-zlpiUvYe8088svN-e_BpusbWebaZVJFMpYcCUkbx1CawPCdakm4MnaXOYLGb7e0yVhLBafpbNY6fDCiuTzmvnNM41wFXa_w0liye_HJvRb-i6jLp6QBv9fKy/s1600/IMG_1686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4brwcg8tQw6S1Ft1LYB-zlpiUvYe8088svN-e_BpusbWebaZVJFMpYcCUkbx1CawPCdakm4MnaXOYLGb7e0yVhLBafpbNY6fDCiuTzmvnNM41wFXa_w0liye_HJvRb-i6jLp6QBv9fKy/s400/IMG_1686.JPG" width="400" /></a></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I was so excited to test out this product for several reasons!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The first one is obvious, it's natural. No chemicals, just wool balls that will soften your clothes naturally.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Second, was that it says it will cut your dryer time down, saving time, money and energy!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">With those two reasons alone, I was thrilled!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My husband is a power lineman. He works on the power lines and extremely high voltage. His work clothes are FR (Fire Resistant). If you are familiar with FR clothing, you know that any chemical fabric softener isn't supposed to be used on the clothing, because it can counter act the FR and even fuel a fire . (I got that off of the website, it's serious business.)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They arrived very quickly and were just as promised. All natural, wool balls!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They are about the size of a baseball. The kids thought they were fun toys. I had to keep tracking them down all over the house to put them back into the dryer.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After about two weeks of testing them out I have discovered that I </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>REALLY LOVE THEM!</i></span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kmU1DdEYqaWuyEK-OjZx6Ei9I7uqLxF07C5tWc1L5eYRyQoH3BWSLSrdJwAKegJw_DgS_MZEa0TGqT3eiAGi-7IxMExpN3qA9tP03Pw08CbBihifhgsLQabuLDKHOaL_l2jCoZc7u-ud/s1600/IMG_1685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kmU1DdEYqaWuyEK-OjZx6Ei9I7uqLxF07C5tWc1L5eYRyQoH3BWSLSrdJwAKegJw_DgS_MZEa0TGqT3eiAGi-7IxMExpN3qA9tP03Pw08CbBihifhgsLQabuLDKHOaL_l2jCoZc7u-ud/s400/IMG_1685.jpg" width="277" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They really do make your clothes soft. I thought because of the size of them, that it would sound like a canon going off in my dryer, but honestly, there isn't that big of a noise difference. If you have ever put a tennis ball in your dryer, you'll know it's very loud. I was expecting the same noise with these balls, but never heard it. They are, for the most part, quiet. The noise level definitely varies by the load size, but nothing ever made it sound like there were tennis balls bouncing around in there. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />I noticed the definite decrease in dry time when it came to my blankets, and larger loads. With having a front loader washer and dryer, sometimes my sheets and duvet covers get really twisted and take about two hours to dry. I usually end up having to pull them out, pull them apart and keep trying to dry the sheets. With the <a href="http://www.woolzies.com/index.htm">Woolzies</a>, I did have to separate them once, but over 90% of all the sheets and covers were already dry. (That NEVER happens!) The only spot that was still wet, was where a few pillow cases had crawled inside of my duvet cover and had gotten twisted up. Obviously, not a flaw of the balls.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My husband's work shirts came out so nice! They were soft and free of wrinkles and chemicals! Definitely, <b><u><i>DEFINITELY</i></u></b> better than air drying them.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I will say that the only down side of the dryer balls, is that they are not a static eliminator. The box says it is a static reducer. They are pretty honest about that. I'm not sure what a normal size static load is, but when I pulled out the blankets, there was definitely a noticable amount of static. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is not a deal breaker for me, though. They are wonderful to use, and are safe.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The kids like to help with laundry and kind of play with the balls as they fall out of the clothes we fold.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They have easy maintenance and will last you for 1,000 loads of laundry.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you're thinking of making the switch, don't think too long! It's a great investment.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">PLUS--If you able to wash your down/alternative down comforters at home, these are WONDERFUL!! Once you wash the comforter, it is recommended/suggested that you have tennis balls (or in this case <a href="http://www.woolzies.com/index.htm">Woolzies</a>) to help fluff your feathers/comforter back up to normal. Two birds, one ball! (Ok, it's six balls, but you get the idea!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3jHcJfOE78T9DoP7nyZPL_P9ZE3GWqWhg5Dgh3RhDgEmNqW6Pc_yOhXbiQwo-Np7On5rY32CmhW6TM0k_nn0nAPHUBj1U68kVp3Eyu2k42YmujHzr8Zep9AVAcyIwPMT21wftsB2_qO5/s1600/IMG_1743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3jHcJfOE78T9DoP7nyZPL_P9ZE3GWqWhg5Dgh3RhDgEmNqW6Pc_yOhXbiQwo-Np7On5rY32CmhW6TM0k_nn0nAPHUBj1U68kVp3Eyu2k42YmujHzr8Zep9AVAcyIwPMT21wftsB2_qO5/s640/IMG_1743.jpg" width="487" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They cost about $35, and they ship worldwide! If it seems like a bit of a pricy investment, look at your dryer sheets box, or your fabric softener. I believe you get around 120 Loads for about $10 a bottle/box of fabric softener sheets. That's adds up to a LOT MORE than $35 for 1,000 loads.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For one lucky reader--I get to share a box with you! (Well, not share-you get to enjoy your </span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">own</span></b></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> box thanks to </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.woolzies.com/index.htm">Woolzies</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What a great way to kick off the Memorial Weekend!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Share, comment, like, you know the regular giveaway stuff! God Bless to all!</span><br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c1edde1/" id="rc-c1edde1" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-50342122336143467512013-05-13T12:53:00.003-06:002013-05-13T13:26:45.242-06:00Sensitivity Issues...We're Not Talking Feelings, but Clothing<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">When we had our first child, our son, who is now three and half, we were so blessed with all these really fun outfits!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Who doesn't enjoy dressing up their little children in handsome attire? I think it's one of the best perks to being a mom. (Why is it, little girls clothes are way cuter than anything I can find for myself?!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Around the time he turned one, we started to notice that he seemed to strongly dislike a lot of things about clothing. In fact, pretty much the minute he figured out how to take his clothes off, they were ALWAYS OFF!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Getting him to wear pants...FORGET IT! Long sleeved shirts were nothing short of a full blow tantrum of elephantine proportions.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I honestly, started to worry if there was something wrong. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">When he started to finally speak words, we started to find out a little bit more as to what was bothering him, or HOW it was bothering him.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapPj-IpbgwJqwFiN14jIiF6XbiPMrPrqW-VjsFuIUtVQAh2l9nQQax9WwNlvpJIpGAoPL3LcZDMPAv_CIdtPUU9C5EGLHkxADLwUhXj6_fr1MLbTQfvuDs9io_TTq3z5n-0shMN5ibDa7/s1600/Sensitivity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapPj-IpbgwJqwFiN14jIiF6XbiPMrPrqW-VjsFuIUtVQAh2l9nQQax9WwNlvpJIpGAoPL3LcZDMPAv_CIdtPUU9C5EGLHkxADLwUhXj6_fr1MLbTQfvuDs9io_TTq3z5n-0shMN5ibDa7/s640/Sensitivity.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Hats were a joke. A coat would only be worn if he actually found out it was cold outside, but couldn't be combined with a long sleeve shirt. AND it had to be a specific kind of coat and was only allowed with a T-Shirt. Socks, <b><i>forget</i></b> about it. They were too tight, to high, to turned, to something.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Every time we went to have photos taken, it was nothing short of a battle royal. I wanted a cute Christmas Photo with a sweater, he screamed and cried himself to sleep.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">It is just heart breaking and frustrating as a parent to deal with this. Frustrating because you have spent time and money on buying clothes to keep them warm and protected, and heart breaking because you can't seem to make it better or go away.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I spoke with his doctor about it and she said that it is a Sensitivity Issue. She said usually, this is something that stems from one parent. Guess who that parent is.....ME!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">He totally takes after me. Although, I'm not sure mine was like his or not, I did do a lot of the same things. (Except maybe cry myself to sleep or scream bloody murder.)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Long sleeved shirts and a winter coat, were a NO GO!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I lived in t-shirts. IF I wore a long sleeve shirt, I HAD to have a t-shirt or tank top under it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I despised socks and underwear. My mom and dad used to check me before I left for school to make sure I was wearing both, but shortly after I would get to school (and it was the most uncomfortable walk to school ever!), I would run to the bathroom and quickly remove both!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">My cousin still laughs to this day about how I would always stuff my underwear and socks in places. It's pretty funny looking back on it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">While I've out grown my aversion to a few of these things, my sensitivities are still there. Jeans-have to fit specifically. Shirts, need to be long and kind of thin. I do wear a lot of tank tops under long sleeves. Socks, unless I'm working in snow, need only be ankle socks (but NOT go above them!).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Now as an adult, it is a lot easier for me, because I can control my clothing and style. I don't throw a tantrum or cry. I'm not sure when or why the change came about.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">With my son, I realize, that I need patience. That things will eventually get better. I definitely PICK my battles with him...like <b><i>we absolutely HAVE to wear pants to leave the house.</i></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">But, I'm ok with the no socks and no underwear. I'm ok with the t-shirts and tank tops, and I'm ok with having to buy the same coat over and over and over again every year in a bigger size (as long as they are still making them at GAP).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I'm ok with hunting for stretchy pants and not jeans. You pick your battles, and realize that some day, they won't be there.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Did I mention hair cuts are awful?! We just did our last one at home, last night. He has spots that aren't quite right and honestly, after the crying and fighting, I'm ok with paying someone else to do it. Mom can only do so much on her own.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I know we aren't the only ones that deal with these types of sensitivities and I'm thankful that its my son and not my daughter, that has these. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">She is his opposite. She loves shoes, clothes and accessories. She likes being a princess and wearing fun stuff! At least one of my children will let me dress them.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">For all you other parents out there who are struggling with this you're not alone. I pray that it will get better for you as well as your children get older. Mine seemed to get less severe as I got older. Kind of like how I would NEVER eat broccoli, then one day when I was in my tweens, I tried it and discovered I LOVED it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do what you can to make it comfortable for them. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I've started giving him options of clothes. We let him pick out his clothes and put them in his own drawer, so he can control the combination of them. He has a few different pairs of shoes, and again, he controls and picks out which ones he wears. It's not always easy. In fact, when the seasonal change from summer to winter happens, it's just a struggle to switch to bigger, more covering clothes. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">When you find something that works, like a pair of pants, BUY LOTS! In bigger sizes! Same thing with shoes. They grow so fast and hunting for the same stuff, once it's out of season is a nightmare!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We have already seen a lot of improvements with him, but we know that by the Grace of God, we will all get through this. He is, his creator after all, and He doesn't make anything that isn't perfect in his eyes.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I know there are a lot of people that give me strange looks when I try to explain to them that he doesn't like to wear socks. Or, that long sleeves are a hard sell. I've even had people tell me that you just have to force them to do it. They clearly have no idea how big a struggle this is, or how traumatizing it can be. I just get the general idea, that they really have no clue as to what they're talking about.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I just smile and kind of pretend I didn't hear them. Sometimes it's just a little easier that way.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I'm not sure how many of you understand what I'm talking about, but I know there will be some of you who do.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">So, I'll settle for t-shirts in family photos and stretchy pants. It's really what captures who he is anyway. My son. I wouldn't want him any other way. He is Perfect!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">How have you coped with this? Know anyone else who struggles with kids with sensitivity issues? Ideas? I'd love to hear input.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">"You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Song of Solomon 4:7 (ESV)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my souls knows it very well."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Psalm 139:13-14 (ESV)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif;">Visit my other posts:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/friendship-new-dating-game.html"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3LGgMqJVttTt7R0nefEI8jzurj2_RBnWtuGQYTL5wgMF0B21J1kzQnrKPj4W84RIz-b2Zm9l_eKCZ6lXjSlcZ8JWG6LILG5fSncpBl1BQ7POa2QqahCxzAmll2J58PkpiE18Gz5Eyeoz/s320/BFF.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/friendship-new-dating-game.html">Friendship, the New Dating Game</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/kids-passport-domestic-only.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLZGFr-_6AVozqfejP28G4OMzphqp3y9z_R5YzZtVemiHKygQF9hk58wyJWnYqRA-kdHg9tcXDReuQzBaqxRu6L6FHFCOk8iKWM5X2C-BqUGFNPXk0Y-AhHYm6ckLpGWvVprfTR7EBhMmw/s320/IMG_1664.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/kids-passport-domestic-only.html">Domestic Play Passport for KIDS! </a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/03/keeping-your-mouth-in-check-with-your.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvawoxc4H1N5Zgdy5YB_gf96-DRphqc_ckmmqxMxYv_EgIQZEgG9hZtPNw0GGNsnSatOYMtzc5OPebpLiB5NoJ4ufbJqEIraMY3ch75zGJhs1MepG5_tSTxn0GaOWhHTf8mwuUk8-aIyv/s320/Words.jpg" width="279" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/03/keeping-your-mouth-in-check-with-your.html">Keeping your Mouth in Check with Your Heart</a></span></td></tr>
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Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-42262294481547726122013-05-01T13:16:00.000-06:002013-05-01T13:21:29.221-06:00My Love Language...<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I'm alive. I've been busy. Isn't that our life story? Sometimes, I can't even remember what we've done that keeps us so busy. Oh well.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I do have one thing that I can share with you that has kept me busy. I have been reading lately. (I really do enjoy it!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I've heard this book title whispered around a little bit, and then I heard it used directly around Valentine's Day. </span><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0802473156/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0802473156&linkCode=as2&tag=antiformom-20" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0802473156&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=antiformom-20" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">The book is called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0802473156/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0802473156&linkCode=as2&tag=antiformom-20%22">The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts.<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=antiformom-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0802473156" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Have <b><u><i>you</i></u></b> heard of it? You might have.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Now, before you go thinking this is just a book for someone in a relationship like marriage, you're wrong. This book, has several different spin offs, but will basically apply to EVERY relationship you have. Friendships, co-workers, moms/dads, siblings, and children. Basically, if you have a relationship with ANYONE, you can use this!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">What really sparked me into reading the book, was a men's discussion panel for Valentine's Day. Several women/mom's asked a panel of men what they would really value or treasure as a gift. While, each one had their own answer, one man's in particular was very interesting to me. He said, "You need to know your husband's love language. Mine for instance is spending quality time, which means sitting on the couch watching TV, not saying anything."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">This, sounds like my husband. Then I got to thinking, is it really that <b><u>EASY</u></b>? Maybe this would be the one step that could really help take our relationship, and all my relationships, to the next level.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Let me just tell you, it's a small book. But, it packs quite the punch. There are Five Love Languages. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Words of Affirmation</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Quality Time</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Gifts</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Acts of Service</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Physical Touch</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Essentially, we all fall into one of these categories. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I've always seen these pictures or posts or comments about how sexy women find men that vacuum the house and do laundry or wash dishes are. I never understood that. The reason I don't get that, is because that isn't my love language. That would be considered Acts of Service. While I think that stuff is great, I also think it's part of just being a couple.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">After taking the quiz, I found out that I scored really high in Words of Affirmation and Gifts. Which, is really, two of the things I probably request and ask more than anything.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">It made me also realize that the Gifts one is huge to me. I spend a lot of time thinking about giving people gifts, looking for gifts, finding surprise gifts, and what would make a just for fun gift, for anyone. Could I say the word <b><i>gift </i></b>anymore?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">But, I also realize I scrutinize gifts that I/my children, get just as much! For me, gifts speak a lot of love. When I open a gift, I realize at that moment, how much that person really thought about me. How much that person really showed they loved me. Now, that's NOT to be confused with being expensive or having to have a lot of money spent on me. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Just knowing that someone took the time to get to know me, my personality, my likes, life, and then created/found a gift that fits me, is just incredible! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">This fills my love tank.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">My husband, was a little bit of a surprise. The book talks about how the things one often complains or nags about, tend to show you what their love language is. Even how someone tends to just act towards you. We tend to mirror the love language we are expecting.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I thought about my husband a lot, and before he took the quiz I had pretty much figured out what his love language was. Or thought I had them both figured out. I was almost 100% correct.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">His major love language is Acts of Service. Having dinner ready for him, washing his clothes, running errands, washing his truck, cleaning the house-these all showed him love. Made him feel secure. He always does this stuff for me, so I could tell this was going to be one of his big ones.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">He will make me breakfast, he will clean my car, he will change the oil and rotate the tires, and he will even clean the house.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">His second one, was actually a surprise. He likes gifts and quality time. The quality time one, wasn't the surprise. He tends to be the kind of man that just wants me to hang out in the garage with him while he works on his dirt bike, or shows me his new welds. He always likes to show me stuff he's doing and complains that I'm online too much when we are watching TV together. Yep, quality time is one that didn't come as a surprise to me.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Gifts and my husband. Two things I NEVER thought would go together. He's never really one for giving me gifts, but also, when I give him gifts (even the ones he will specifically ASK me to get for him) he just never seems to be to excited about it. I guess that just goes to show you, there are always new things to learn about the loved ones in our life!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We've been applying these things to our life on a daily basis now. I have to say, it takes a lot of the guessing out of what will work and what doesn't. It's actually been quite a relief! I now know, what I can do to show him, I love him. He's been doing mine as well. It's been so amazing!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We finally speak, the <b><u>SAME LANGUAGE!!!!</u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">After we took our quizzes, I actually have asked several friends and family members to do the same. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">My mom, turns out, is an Acts of Service person. My sister is just like me. There is no better way to show people you love them by speaking their language.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">If you don't want to buy the book, and I do encourage it, then go to this link and take your profile quiz! Find out what your language is! You might be surprised.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.5lovelanguages.com/profile/"><b>The 5 Love Languages Profile Quiz</b></a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;">*Contains affiliate links in post.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">You should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I'd love to hear from you! Please leave a comment below!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="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><br /></b></span></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">"You obeyed the truth and your souls were made pure. Now you sincerely love each other. But you must keep on loving with all your heart."</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 Peter 1:22 (CEV)<br style="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></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Check out some of my other posts!</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/marriage-our-house-fire.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0-ugOlUAzx4YV8FcSVslnaH5-u9a38ZwaX7HOWJnT5utgmoP4E9-6q31hR3SUJPrsPPzrGovfxvWn_vnCASM3AN50QjqcMaXaResAt135hrzWkkLjHd_1GFIlCM__LUaDAkz20MH9bnk/s320/Routine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Getting out of the routine to build a healthier marriage!</div>
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/kids-passport-domestic-only.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFdWpVgSRn7I29saemNRON384BF6aHSNR_EFud6wdirinRiYjUhmITuur6prsWz4C74PtVuRH7MjSjIA01njiHYXcDjxkule3CptaA5H9ZGwIk-jB7gTJXxxF0ybD8m2uoOFwYddH83-se/s320/IMG_1657.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kids Domestic Play Passports! Get Real Stamps!</div>
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-30th-birthday.html"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluec3V4UIjcWH-vWpJHrwPKF9wIEChIIesnRQx7yH8LnMfsw_kTYB7zvtgJr5XND_aaix4ymgf-mXqEfcYsTleSy9rc-b2n4IkiSLUZAXJ1uh5226WvH2qZ2oJyIoM2_BZ_-cbX_s1-kR/s400/30.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Surprise others with your kindness! Watch it spread!</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="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 /></span></span></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-61866198004230960912013-03-23T12:06:00.001-06:002013-03-23T12:20:02.400-06:00The Lamb of God Craft for Kids<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Easter/Resurrection Sunday is almost here! One of the MAJOR holidays, I'd say.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Plus, the weather is usually starting to get nice out!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This year, I get the honor of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">helping to teach the kids at church, right before Easter Sunday.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sometimes, I struggle with finding a craft for everyone. But, I came up with this idea and thought it was really cute and fun! Plus it combines a lot of different things to help teach the message and give the kids some fun hands on time too!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I thought it would be fun to use the message of John 1:29.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!"</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I found this really awesome site, </span><a href="http://twistynoodle.com/lamb-coloring-page/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Twisty Noodle!</span></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Go THERE! You can make any type of coloring page/writing page you want! I LOVE this site!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGGjptnMomGB45Y0E1v5FsFlgo3_PDDGkCKsnu33BHWZz6PlykA1VOkIOE3SwltAizMyDzLmRTPQXYCvkdU_vNr6iSUSGfSwVpLc7yEvoNTykc2oqFWdcdicIc6ODqf6bwd8svZnJpkWq/s1600/IMG_1360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGGjptnMomGB45Y0E1v5FsFlgo3_PDDGkCKsnu33BHWZz6PlykA1VOkIOE3SwltAizMyDzLmRTPQXYCvkdU_vNr6iSUSGfSwVpLc7yEvoNTykc2oqFWdcdicIc6ODqf6bwd8svZnJpkWq/s400/IMG_1360.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWRiqKKLIkS-Cblvmh1hSkpzemdPc6ytycupGOGKLs3AOh3PoOkFFYRKaor9PAAraH2y7NtCOXaEHZ1_N2svCMD3MM29m24RyGf4p5SlS5FTRtLg4mXFPDDWlCI_BBtZUpAt_08msmbep/s1600/IMG_1361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWRiqKKLIkS-Cblvmh1hSkpzemdPc6ytycupGOGKLs3AOh3PoOkFFYRKaor9PAAraH2y7NtCOXaEHZ1_N2svCMD3MM29m24RyGf4p5SlS5FTRtLg4mXFPDDWlCI_BBtZUpAt_08msmbep/s400/IMG_1361.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I printed out a few different versions of this to use. I printed on out that said, Lamb of God. (It's traceable to help the little kids learn to write also!) One that said, Jesus, Lamb of God. One blank one, and one with bold letters on top with the verse John 1:29. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I let my kids color and do this at home first. They're really little but they enjoy coloring. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Then, we took large cotton balls and stretched them apart, and glued them onto the Lamb. To make it nice and fluffy and give it some texture.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p3z9XZZfMOty9P8I98la1KCl0OKgHHQJx0hfxToFN5Jt0gOLJjx5FAUZO7TGjRnCOQo-PHiAG7GIkJBqPEQq9ob6dpGPTzBm_L3nmycgZcJ9hA_8Tug0pj013f-8nlUHxYw76d4aDev0/s1600/IMG_1358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p3z9XZZfMOty9P8I98la1KCl0OKgHHQJx0hfxToFN5Jt0gOLJjx5FAUZO7TGjRnCOQo-PHiAG7GIkJBqPEQq9ob6dpGPTzBm_L3nmycgZcJ9hA_8Tug0pj013f-8nlUHxYw76d4aDev0/s640/IMG_1358.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ok, Mom did some grass coloring and the nose had to be pink. It's my mom thing!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />Pretty cute to hang on the fridge right?! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My idea for older kids, is to use this bold word verse, with the bible verse, and have them write out what it means for them, that Jesus was the lamb of God.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I think this is a good way to remind kids, whether you go to a church or not, that Easter Sunday is about more than just chocolates and bunnies. More than just ham/turkey dinner with gifts and family and friends. This is a day for celebration that we get to live forever, because Jesus defeated death, and Satan!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(If that's a little heavy for you, I'm sorry. It still doesn't make it any less true.) So rejoice! Be glad and ENJOY this day with your kiddos! And Be Very Thankful, that the Lamb did come for you and me!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Happy Easter/Resurrection Sunday everyone! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">May God Bless you and your family!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You Should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'd love to hear some feedback and comments!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Visit some of my other posts!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/kids-passport-domestic-only.html"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLZGFr-_6AVozqfejP28G4OMzphqp3y9z_R5YzZtVemiHKygQF9hk58wyJWnYqRA-kdHg9tcXDReuQzBaqxRu6L6FHFCOk8iKWM5X2C-BqUGFNPXk0Y-AhHYm6ckLpGWvVprfTR7EBhMmw/s400/IMG_1664.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/kids-passport-domestic-only.html">KIDS Passport: Domestic Only</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/encouragement-in-balloon.html"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSfzEbwOYprZBruk7HDG3F_BHwclryzCHf_ZA5hgWYLmJfR2JJtMNgPHQpjEP5mlNZwSIUUWey0EhqpS7dYmWBwr2x-GYgqv1P9Wf0UqAHA8uAlyD3G-7C34IDzsbfz07Ovez0Tcyytbx/s400/Balloon.jpg" width="350" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/encouragement-in-balloon.html">Sending some encouragement and love in a balloon!</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-tree-air-freshener-craft-for.html"><img border="0" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcflopk1uGxyXQWHaGne6oOSKJ7wF-GLmSTi02Kd-XZua4Tvjr9eCoZmUtNN_F3RGytz7qpqYTCZO192ZQB49uB9Q4DZtYQk9WI3TwFgpURMYtO0WqMDAsu7sUOOTlp2Gx-cgz8dWimMYp/s400/Air+Freshener.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-tree-air-freshener-craft-for.html">Incorporate ANY shapes for ANY holiday or occassion!</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-30th-birthday.html"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluec3V4UIjcWH-vWpJHrwPKF9wIEChIIesnRQx7yH8LnMfsw_kTYB7zvtgJr5XND_aaix4ymgf-mXqEfcYsTleSy9rc-b2n4IkiSLUZAXJ1uh5226WvH2qZ2oJyIoM2_BZ_-cbX_s1-kR/s400/30.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-30th-birthday.html">Need ideas to spread LOVE? You'll be addicted once you start!</a></span></td></tr>
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Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-82655754739768994362013-03-21T14:56:00.000-06:002013-03-21T15:13:34.245-06:00Keeping your Mouth in Check with your Heart<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>We've all done it.</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Had that moment, when we've said something we wished we hadn't. Boy, those words linger a long time don't they? Bet you can remember your face flushing red, or the look on the other person's face, or the sound in their or your own voice.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>We've all experienced it.</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A friend, loved one, co-worker let loose a statement or comment that knocked you back and maybe knocked you straight down to the ground. You remember that moment well. It's been with you for awhile. Maybe you've had several from the same people. Regardless of the circumstances, you've experienced the hurt, devastation and frustration from someones thoughtless words.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've been spending a lot of time trying to listen to what I've been saying. I have been in a constant reminder over the past month or so about my words and what they really mean.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7UbtzM1S0u5HO79p3pahrKFB5E23DgDkDnc56ASwL_S90EfBWyRMcrzlJcpPuwyIiXCha6SV5eVo8K5RjOIClYefUfJj5MYZ03tgB_VTplqlA9GPS51QUloYU3ZbTsQwHpDjXdS_Vtyd/s1600/Words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7UbtzM1S0u5HO79p3pahrKFB5E23DgDkDnc56ASwL_S90EfBWyRMcrzlJcpPuwyIiXCha6SV5eVo8K5RjOIClYefUfJj5MYZ03tgB_VTplqlA9GPS51QUloYU3ZbTsQwHpDjXdS_Vtyd/s640/Words.jpg" width="558" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">That probably sounded a little vague. Let me explain. I'm sure you've probably encountered a few of these sayings some where in your life.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Kind words are like honey-they cheer you up and make you feel strong.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Proverbs 16:24 (CEV)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Watching what you say can save you a lot of trouble.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Proverbs 21:23 (CEV)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>A bird that you set free may be caught again, </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>but a word that escapes your lips will not return.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Jewish Proverb</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>The heart of a fool is in his mouth, but the mouth of a wise man is in his heart.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Benjamin Franklin</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile and a grateful heart.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Zig Ziglar</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Don't let your mouth write a check your tail can't cash.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Bo Diddley</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Matthew 12:37</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Good people do good things because of the good in their hearts. Bad people do bad things because of the evil in their hearts. Your words show what is in your heart.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Luke 6:45 (CEV)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Even fools seem smart when they are quiet.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> -Proverbs 17:28</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I think that's enough to get the point over. The big one that I keep getting is the message from Luke 6:45. </span><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Your words show what is in your heart.</span></b></u></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do you ever hear people constantly being negative? Constantly coming up with drama? If you listen to them, and what they're really saying, you'll learn to read between the lines. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">They're unhappy. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">They have some thing in their heart that is just sad, and that is why they say all the things they do.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have you ever been around someone who is just joyful? Who just speaks great things and helps to build you up? You would know if you had. I'm talking about a person who was sincere and genuine. Not someone just throwing compliments randomly out there, but someone who has a great heart. Someone who can help you see the positive, when something negative tries to hit you. <b><i>(Sometimes, it can almost be annoying! But, never the less, you still are so thankful for those people who can help show you the wonderfulness that life has.)</i></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've been more quiet lately. (</span><i style="font-size: x-large;">Go ahead and laugh a little right now, because if you know me, it's almost funny to imagine me being quiet.)</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> But, I've been struggling lately. I know that I've encountered a lot of negative words recently. It made me wonder if I had been doing the same thing to other people. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>I needed time to look inside myself and see what I was battling and dealing with. I needed to listen to what my heart was telling other people and myself. </i></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>If the power of our words brings life and death, happiness and sorrow, healing or hurt-why is it, we don't treat them all like the treasures they really are?</u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There was a time that all people had were words. There were no cell phones, computers, books and documents. If someone gave you their word, it was a done deal. Goods traded and sold, all at the power of a word.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There are still a few things that only require a few words, in order to change a life. Words like, "Will you marry me?" "I do!" "We're pregnant!" "We'd like to offer you the job!" "Congratulations!" "I'm proud of you." "I love you."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">These small words, are so powerful. They are also not offered, often. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I bet some of your most memorable days, included some of the most kind hearted words you'd ever heard. Mine do. The day I got engaged, was so special and amazing. Some of the most difficult days I've made it through, were all because someone gave me some kind words and positive encouragement.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Maybe if we all started using more positive words, we could see a difference and change in people. Have you told your kids you're proud of them lately? Have you reminded your mom and dad that you're thankful, for all they've done and sacrificed for you? Have you ever told your friend that their support was what changed their whole week around, or maybe life? Have you told your spouse how wonderful they are and why?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've never heard anyone, EVER, complain about being told something positive.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well, ok, that's not entirely true. I was once given a work evaluation and told, as a negative point, that I was too "cheerful and bubbly." (Pause for an awkward moment.....) Yea, I thought it was weird too. There's always someone who wants to rain on a positive parade, but again, you can see those people have some deep hurt/fears/hate in their hearts.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As I move on from my newly learned lesson, I hope that I've shared something with you, for your life. Listen to what you've been saying. Even if it means you're a little quieter and don't have a lot to say right now. Evaluate what it is you mean.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Maybe, if you're reading this, you're seeing that it's meant for someone in your life. Maybe they need more positive words. Maybe someone in your life needs to be built up, because they're struggling inside. Maybe they just need to be reminded how truly wonderful they are. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I dare you-go build someone up! </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Go use your Super Power Words for GOOD!</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Go and share the love! You'll NEVER regret saying something positive and meaningful, to someone.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You Should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Check out some of my other posts! Share, Share, Share! And leave some love if you'd like!!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/friendship-new-dating-game.html"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3LGgMqJVttTt7R0nefEI8jzurj2_RBnWtuGQYTL5wgMF0B21J1kzQnrKPj4W84RIz-b2Zm9l_eKCZ6lXjSlcZ8JWG6LILG5fSncpBl1BQ7POa2QqahCxzAmll2J58PkpiE18Gz5Eyeoz/s320/BFF.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/friendship-new-dating-game.html">Friendship: The New Dating Game</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-30th-birthday.html"><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluec3V4UIjcWH-vWpJHrwPKF9wIEChIIesnRQx7yH8LnMfsw_kTYB7zvtgJr5XND_aaix4ymgf-mXqEfcYsTleSy9rc-b2n4IkiSLUZAXJ1uh5226WvH2qZ2oJyIoM2_BZ_-cbX_s1-kR/s320/30.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-30th-birthday.html">30 Acts of Kindness</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/11/more-than-generous.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQDt9HtVttLi66G16dSSAiqs-7KZ0vTWfG52EeJ8tIGHIDSNCmD3rS0WSa0ajDb2V7uX5q4WwVFP0gF4JfHevWj14mWQYEBvo9D8yykXLT2J3Ij0nqSH3C_osbMX6nAbQq5N3y_wa1DJZ/s320/Gave+a+toy%2521.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-9062980169243439992013-02-27T14:45:00.000-07:002013-02-27T16:21:47.217-07:00Child Birth: The Natural Way<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The miracle of child birth. It's a pretty amazing and spectacular thing. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's also one of those topics like breast feeding vs bottle feeding, cloth diapers vs disposables, natural vs epidural/c-section, etc. It tends to stir up a lot of opinions and stories.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had both my children the natural way. Well, I was induced with the first one and opted for no pain meds. The second one, I went into labor naturally and had her with no pain meds.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I struggled, when I was pregnant, to find anyone who was a real person, that could tell me how to go through it. I wanted some honest stories about what to expect and what they used to cope.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnklhex0bFWPk6KqYrE3P3jiiOPhevQFOKb4jrlODvGeGEdFYACc22TbpWnGriY5Nvqc-5MCxtrIH8PCoMiFhsneVhrVLRKqCB4jT9hUhHZKAfj864CJWzDMYRbpx4yC4KDxZO9VRnBOt/s1600/Child+Birth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnklhex0bFWPk6KqYrE3P3jiiOPhevQFOKb4jrlODvGeGEdFYACc22TbpWnGriY5Nvqc-5MCxtrIH8PCoMiFhsneVhrVLRKqCB4jT9hUhHZKAfj864CJWzDMYRbpx4yC4KDxZO9VRnBOt/s400/Child+Birth.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't have any photos of me doing it. These guys look way better than me anyway!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Most people couldn't really tell me anything. I found some solace with </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0553381156/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0553381156&linkCode=as2&tag=antiformom-20%22%3E%3Cimg%20border=%220%22%20src=%22http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0553381156&Format=_SL110_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=antiformom-20%22%20%3E%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=antiformom-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0553381156%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">Ina May Gaskin's Guide To Child Birth</a>. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She's delivered lots of babies. I mean LOTS! She was also very honest. I found that there were a few pieces of information in this book that really sped up my labor process and helped to change my frame of mind. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have several people in my life who are currently pregnant. A few I know, are planning to have a natural labor and delivery. I've tried to be honest with them about what to expect. As I was telling my story for the second time, in about a week, I thought it might be nice to share with all of you. So, here it goes. My honest, true, story!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">First off, it does hurt. Everyone has different degrees of pain, so to answer how much, is kind of hard and difficult. Also, every one's labor is different. With my son, I had all back labor (this is the kind you don't want!). With my daughter, it was just regular contractions. Also remember, God designed us to do this. He'll help you through this!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had two, six-hour labors, with the deliveries of both my children. Like I stated before, with my son, I was induced. My water broke at noon and six hours later, he arrived safely.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With my son's delivery, I felt that I had missed out on something. I didn't get to experience the exciting rush of, "Honey, it's time to go to the hospital, we're having the baby!" I guess I've seen too many movies, and I felt, well, cheated out of that birth experience. I know that other mothers have felt the same way in regards to having an unplanned c-section. Some where along the lines, they felt they just missed out on the child birth experience. And, it's understandable, and totally normal.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With my daughter, however, I was bound and determined not get induced. With her, I had, had contractions on and off for a full day. Because I had missed out on this with my first one, I felt like a new mom. I had contractions four minutes apart, but they didn't really hurt. I didn't want to go to the hospital to be sent home (I've heard a few mom stories about that too, and I didn't want to be embarrassed by being sent home either!).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was lucky enough to be around two, off-duty doctors who basically told me that if I could easily walk through and talk through my contractions, because they weren't really causing discomfort, that I was fine not heading to the Labor and Delivery ward right then. I needed to go when I couldn't easily talk or walk through the discomfort or pain. (We live 5 minutes away from our hospital, and I totally understand that there are towns with people, who have to drive an hour or more to get to their hospital for delivery.)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With my daughter, I hopped into the shower, and it instantly kicked my contractions into hyper drive! I was having some intense, cramping pain, that I no longer could talk through so I knew it was time to go.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Upon my arrival with her at the hospital, I was at 5 cm dilated. Whoo hoo-half way done!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With both kids, I used the hot tub method to deal with the pain and discomfort. Also, squatting like a little frog, helped a lot as well!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I didn't have a birth plan, other than to just get through it without meds. If music would have been playing in the back ground I could have honestly told you I wouldn't have heard it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With each contraction, your natural instinct is to almost tense up and "fight through it." It hurts. Imagine the worst menstrual cramps ever-then magnify it. By A LOT!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">However, the tensing up, counteracts the whole thing.</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> The best things I got out of Ina's book, was that you need to mentally tell yourself that this needs to happen, and that you're "opening up," and that you're not fighting it! Pretty much need to keep that taped to your head and have your coaching partner repeat that to you. Your cervix needs to open! Period. Try and work with it as much as you can and when it's over, rest. Try not to focus too much on the last contraction.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm going to say that this was 99% mental. Women have been having natural child birth for centuries. (Your mother probably had you this way-you'll have a new respect for her after your children are born.) We were blessed/cursed at the same time with this. You see, we are strong enough to endure this (and forget all about it!), and repeat it!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The contractions get more intense after your water breaks. With my son, I actually heard a little 'Pop!' After that, I felt a gush, like I had accidentally peed my pants! Thank goodness I was in the hospital gown (which by the way--don't waste money buying a cute fancy gown, because birth is MESSY!!!!!!).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With my daughter, I was sitting in the hot tub and kind of a felt an extra surge of water, and looked down and saw I definitely had my water break. (It's not just clear water that comes out, it comes with either red blood, or can look kind of greenish. If it's greenish, the baby has had a bowl movement inside you at this point. You can learn more about that later.)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">At that point, you're headed toward the final stretch.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">During the time between 7 cm and 10 cm, for me, was the most intense. I started to shake with adrenaline and get really hot. I also started to throw up and go potty, because it was my body's way of getting ready for the final push (pun intended!). This was also where the contractions were coming really fast and hard. With that, also meant, they were intense in pain. I would sway my hips, I would try the ball, I would try just about everything to get through each one. I even stopped talking for a period of time (which, for anyone that knows me, is pretty much a miracle!).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I should also mention, that at this point, if you're modest about being naked, in front of anyone, you won't be. I was literally naked with both children, from that 7cm point on and I didn't care who saw me. My focus was directed entirely on something else. I also had my children during shift change, so there was literally, about 12 people in my room.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you can imagine, 12 people (adults) in a room, with me naked, and they are all staring at your bottom, waiting for your little miracle to arrive. That sounds weird, but you don't even notice they are there and you don't CARE!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pushing went pretty fast for me. About 15 minutes for each kid. I have that personality that when I'm done, I'M DONE! When I was told it was time to push (and trust me you'll know, your body will start to do it for you), I was like a sumo wrestler taking a stance. I HAD, HAD ENOUGH OF THE PAIN. I put my game face on and I was ready to go!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you need tips about pushing or are interested in knowing what that is like, ask around. Or send me a private message. I'm always honest and willing to share.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the end, once that little awesome, amazing, miracle's head and shoulder's pop out, the pain is gone. Seriously. It's instant. You don't really have to worry about the placenta either. That will pretty much just slide right out and you don't have to worry about that, and you don't even notice, because you have a baby in your arms. Or he/she is being passed around the room being checked by nurses and doctors. What an amazing distraction, huh?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Basically, what you need to know is this. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>YOU CAN DO IT! </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't focus on the pain, focus on the part that you've been building up too-your baby! Keep the mental part about trying to not counteract the contractions fore front! Read Ina's book. She has so much to share on it. Really, can you ever be overly, mentally prepared? I don't think so!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hope you've found this helpful. If it's a friend, or a sister that is about to go through this, be a champ and have something waiting for her at the end. Champagne, her favorite candy, a gift certificate for a mani/pedi! She's a hero-even though she doesn't get a badge, she's just done an unbelievable, amazing job, bring a life into this world. She should be celebrated too!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Need more ideas or tips on that upcoming arrival of a baby? Check out my <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/baby-time-tips-i-wish-i-had.html">post here</a>! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Isaiah 40:29</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*There is an affiliate link for the book.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-64849574880684909822013-02-12T12:16:00.001-07:002013-02-22T10:00:54.843-07:00My 30th Birthday<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluec3V4UIjcWH-vWpJHrwPKF9wIEChIIesnRQx7yH8LnMfsw_kTYB7zvtgJr5XND_aaix4ymgf-mXqEfcYsTleSy9rc-b2n4IkiSLUZAXJ1uh5226WvH2qZ2oJyIoM2_BZ_-cbX_s1-kR/s1600/30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="417" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluec3V4UIjcWH-vWpJHrwPKF9wIEChIIesnRQx7yH8LnMfsw_kTYB7zvtgJr5XND_aaix4ymgf-mXqEfcYsTleSy9rc-b2n4IkiSLUZAXJ1uh5226WvH2qZ2oJyIoM2_BZ_-cbX_s1-kR/s640/30.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This day has finally arrived. I'm 30. It's an age that when I was about 13, I thought was old. Like,</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> REALLY old</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. An age that seemed so far away, but was the start of the downhill of life.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm so glad I'm not 13 anymore. This birthday, means nothing even remotely close to what I thought it did back then.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This birthday, is the </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">celebration</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> of life. It's the acknowledgment that throughout some of the stupidest things I've ever done in my youthful life, I've managed to live to tell the tales to another generation. That I've grown in all areas and ways of life. That I've taken paths that have never been traveled, and that I've shared my means with others.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This birthday was the realization that I have SO FAR to go yet. That at this point in my life, I could never be done doing, what needs to be done. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm so grateful for the opportunities that I've been given. I've been incredibly blessed with all the people I've met in my life. Those who have been around to help give me guidance and perspective. To share their errors and triumphs with me, in hopes that I'll be able to have an even better life. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm even grateful for those challenging and difficult people I know/have in my life. It's because of these people and their daily challenges for me, that I get to experience what it truly means to love. These people also show me that out of each difficult situation, there is a lesson to be learned and shared. If we didn't learn from them, life would be pretty uneventful and probably hopeless.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But nonetheless, </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I'm 30! </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What a fabulous thing! </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As I've been mentioning and doing in some of my posts, I wanted to be a giver and a sharer of this moment. (Not just this moment, </span><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I've realized but in EVERY moment!)</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I kicked off my 30th with doing </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">30 Random Acts of Kindness.</span></b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http:www.spirituallythinking.blogspot.com<br />
Taken from Here! Love this!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I just want to encourage each and every one of you, to try this at some point in your life. You don't necessarily need to do thirty things, or even ten different things. But this journey was amazing!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I took about a month and half to sit down and plan this. I needed to save a little money and some of these things required a lot of time.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I made a list of things I wanted/thought I could do. I had planned to do them all in one day, but after I started acquiring all this 'stuff' I realized, my car was too SMALL to hold everything in one shot. Plus, my husband pointed out that taking my two little kids with me every where I went to do this, would make this a miraculous feat to get it all done in one full day.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p3_O3IT0oV6OAuZvfLhxiAvh4SWmbMYTteohjfECL1pd1zCWo0wkTMYmlPzTj24gdFjlLWL5aakrkhe_Usru6IH33TNR0WdiQZ2YPCbOZpBsCRPRYs1HdeEnWMTFV6PgX_qEqrTm-qrB/s1600/IMG_0928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p3_O3IT0oV6OAuZvfLhxiAvh4SWmbMYTteohjfECL1pd1zCWo0wkTMYmlPzTj24gdFjlLWL5aakrkhe_Usru6IH33TNR0WdiQZ2YPCbOZpBsCRPRYs1HdeEnWMTFV6PgX_qEqrTm-qrB/s320/IMG_0928.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Collection of Items!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I broke it up into a few things each day. My kids could take doing this stuff for about an hour or two max. He was right. Yes, I said it. My husband, was RIGHT! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is what I did, and how it went! Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #1. Donated Valentine's to the homeless shelter for the kids to make and take to school.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #2. Took puzzles and coloring books and crayons and dropped them off at the hospital for the kids.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwl_d6gST6d4bT_orEEEUYl0_OPGzI5tmlo-21eT-SBU_6iJHhTkJx_RbZTDC5pdsGuj9KpzMV0d4S7BU60tzPBOXkVSI3_k4-Yv2OnUaIWvj5RWQ7JKdhCLKoshc5UHHO9KZCZIbkbER/s1600/IMG_0956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwl_d6gST6d4bT_orEEEUYl0_OPGzI5tmlo-21eT-SBU_6iJHhTkJx_RbZTDC5pdsGuj9KpzMV0d4S7BU60tzPBOXkVSI3_k4-Yv2OnUaIWvj5RWQ7JKdhCLKoshc5UHHO9KZCZIbkbER/s320/IMG_0956.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #3. Donated coffee to the homeless shelter.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6V9gUt2ZGREUDJ6wh70A6tuAXhq-rZV4kcBWB7yPydDhs7TEg3YWhtBhOf51h6UG53SUJxS-DldEC8zIfSB-8DcuDtIioYErzY7TM7wUTGy5182WRYC37S2K3qx51p65Z3qu3Msqtf1C/s1600/IMG_0967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6V9gUt2ZGREUDJ6wh70A6tuAXhq-rZV4kcBWB7yPydDhs7TEg3YWhtBhOf51h6UG53SUJxS-DldEC8zIfSB-8DcuDtIioYErzY7TM7wUTGy5182WRYC37S2K3qx51p65Z3qu3Msqtf1C/s320/IMG_0967.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #4. Sent a Yiftee to a lucky Reader!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwsiPTrx-FBwmjet-uMb13w_Gg4In2849_R6fEsfb_Ew9bzv-Z1p49r7VbG8Q0sD1SsReesYQmB6ozdmqFQvF90RbtLdz1qVbPe-hyqdNYyjQTkARSJsNq6r8agKjFEwrgiY-ZDIqEEGW/s1600/IMG_0978.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwsiPTrx-FBwmjet-uMb13w_Gg4In2849_R6fEsfb_Ew9bzv-Z1p49r7VbG8Q0sD1SsReesYQmB6ozdmqFQvF90RbtLdz1qVbPe-hyqdNYyjQTkARSJsNq6r8agKjFEwrgiY-ZDIqEEGW/s320/IMG_0978.PNG" width="213" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #5. Picked up garbage around the neighborhood.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTnfEa-uc2QHLRJHyn2gffBnowrbHVZePfxIBWeQMschyW1RXXbEIszOwQSCe9Aonb2KhUzMANiCCmA1YYGT_oRNrN2bG4ASGd6naL9AVV5_RBtiLPeqZEFSJ6F5XJPxy4adL3QQJ33lgz/s1600/IMG_0980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTnfEa-uc2QHLRJHyn2gffBnowrbHVZePfxIBWeQMschyW1RXXbEIszOwQSCe9Aonb2KhUzMANiCCmA1YYGT_oRNrN2bG4ASGd6naL9AVV5_RBtiLPeqZEFSJ6F5XJPxy4adL3QQJ33lgz/s320/IMG_0980.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #6. Donated expired coupons to the Red Cross for the troops.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikF4S6RVOnqIIGQAlYwWha0FzKY_-RiwGRLe0xnIevftYxjfX2jJPNRmdYSLCuTWOuqt4vVbl7-yVyArW2KCH_4Ep7P_gP6nG71DTvbGqKoq_PimP_gvv-HmMxhWeVeYR5_1n4TZ7bYXJx/s1600/IMG_0984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikF4S6RVOnqIIGQAlYwWha0FzKY_-RiwGRLe0xnIevftYxjfX2jJPNRmdYSLCuTWOuqt4vVbl7-yVyArW2KCH_4Ep7P_gP6nG71DTvbGqKoq_PimP_gvv-HmMxhWeVeYR5_1n4TZ7bYXJx/s320/IMG_0984.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #7. Sent cards to friends and family with lots of love</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0K7ZtFlW2f7W5nCUgrevfcX3xnum1e-MG_z_uLDPGoW4Xy9hr5DV0R8pJsdkUQr9TkuT5hHfEmpp6Bd6_M1cV0DaPdTBMDzbyz_uNLpGoBvaRnHftrx_CmZ1VqGvXGUir0Mjxw80i4j0m/s1600/IMG_0969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0K7ZtFlW2f7W5nCUgrevfcX3xnum1e-MG_z_uLDPGoW4Xy9hr5DV0R8pJsdkUQr9TkuT5hHfEmpp6Bd6_M1cV0DaPdTBMDzbyz_uNLpGoBvaRnHftrx_CmZ1VqGvXGUir0Mjxw80i4j0m/s320/IMG_0969.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #8. Put coupons out at the store for people to use.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0zN8QcvpD7Hm7ikgF2zHHiI0txLjUKVnLFxpT9ykb0kkJHbRagA5OyfIPvxO9MttUXk9N0tvt6HEaOSOKQuwPiPXN-FD84Pb8vfkRbTJUiA8lAPWVnxd4Z7t3leHcbhFRVt8lZQALs-B/s1600/IMG_0994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0zN8QcvpD7Hm7ikgF2zHHiI0txLjUKVnLFxpT9ykb0kkJHbRagA5OyfIPvxO9MttUXk9N0tvt6HEaOSOKQuwPiPXN-FD84Pb8vfkRbTJUiA8lAPWVnxd4Z7t3leHcbhFRVt8lZQALs-B/s320/IMG_0994.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #9. Left diapers at the diaper stations.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdbvhGE0Ffs6IKqbrYUdpfEeFOOvl5_9aT4YDoDN8IN4ROqo6U-UvtLYBKSnWZw12PuC_uLiDmmmcDL0U6YfQxM6JRhUMPfX7gA0guZi8wGkHOQgJQvqcvDPQfc8CG7OWLHeONgbyjb0m/s1600/IMG_0993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdbvhGE0Ffs6IKqbrYUdpfEeFOOvl5_9aT4YDoDN8IN4ROqo6U-UvtLYBKSnWZw12PuC_uLiDmmmcDL0U6YfQxM6JRhUMPfX7gA0guZi8wGkHOQgJQvqcvDPQfc8CG7OWLHeONgbyjb0m/s320/IMG_0993.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #10. Handed out Blessing Bags to the people in need.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAeNW2AHNqrIMqDS3UCbIqDSxUmGVdnlXmdZMu2-LA7sajUGTR2rgcLctHQdtKxIHRh_sGTjg4XVnpQJwZV9Y63SfrtSjq_bBVATFbauuq1h6VXXR-iS_TIU91qm_DsU6y7vBp1SL_ACp/s1600/IMG_1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAeNW2AHNqrIMqDS3UCbIqDSxUmGVdnlXmdZMu2-LA7sajUGTR2rgcLctHQdtKxIHRh_sGTjg4XVnpQJwZV9Y63SfrtSjq_bBVATFbauuq1h6VXXR-iS_TIU91qm_DsU6y7vBp1SL_ACp/s320/IMG_1010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #11. Handed out waters to people we saw, like the mail lady, homeless, the kids holding signs and billboards by the street.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dPstT2m_uqp79fOLYSitUo6m2Qy1yvBlHUPzYTqdknM8rJ5FnAa8cDsjM7R4tCYey7WdA289ILyyVaZAB3TrtyJevENb_-9rYz3GatDHyZapxRBu5yvX50ReK0r7TqSbEw19VQfBkdRx/s1600/IMG_1007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dPstT2m_uqp79fOLYSitUo6m2Qy1yvBlHUPzYTqdknM8rJ5FnAa8cDsjM7R4tCYey7WdA289ILyyVaZAB3TrtyJevENb_-9rYz3GatDHyZapxRBu5yvX50ReK0r7TqSbEw19VQfBkdRx/s320/IMG_1007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #12. Retrieved rogue shopping carts throughout the store parking lots, and placed them in the carousels.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimBh213M38gOoglrHZoRD5NvpRG8A2oxl4JG0wfJAVcISn3fOp6niC3GMwNJLNupibodgeVGc-zlg7zVMlhyPgBP0mAc8laJxMXvNaQKQP3T_fztFV9NnyQSbOQgavvPXhDwWiux99NEfr/s1600/IMG_1015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimBh213M38gOoglrHZoRD5NvpRG8A2oxl4JG0wfJAVcISn3fOp6niC3GMwNJLNupibodgeVGc-zlg7zVMlhyPgBP0mAc8laJxMXvNaQKQP3T_fztFV9NnyQSbOQgavvPXhDwWiux99NEfr/s320/IMG_1015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #13. Helped a gentleman with his groceries and put his cart away. (He was really surprised I offered to help, and even more so when he found out I didn't work for the store.)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdOkuf0j9eU0QzJdPIOobH9Dq646ZymQphafdmOP9WxnXJAHPDZnSunbW68UXi07J7w-QSKOYxLDiAfMN9X6RCHGdwzghESYvh_N_cH2af91u2IS1LRpsrDrX8u8P6849OpE_E95hP-uV/s1600/IMG_1016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdOkuf0j9eU0QzJdPIOobH9Dq646ZymQphafdmOP9WxnXJAHPDZnSunbW68UXi07J7w-QSKOYxLDiAfMN9X6RCHGdwzghESYvh_N_cH2af91u2IS1LRpsrDrX8u8P6849OpE_E95hP-uV/s320/IMG_1016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #14. Smile all day at people. (This seems easy, but try it! Actually focus on walking through the store with a smile on your face. You have to make an effort to keep doing it....all day long...all the time! But, it works. Everyone can't help but smile back.)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_2C_RIcHNrkWyPgaJRstlSqJGAoU1PxguIztq23jGZfcAkXHzasyS-NVm1jov-2x-9K8Gxh-imaWFcgFNMZNaY9K0NRvbnmwvR-ci_VrGVnhjiDQASotXzHtNXVa80HfaJu9PZel7iIF/s1600/IMG_1018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_2C_RIcHNrkWyPgaJRstlSqJGAoU1PxguIztq23jGZfcAkXHzasyS-NVm1jov-2x-9K8Gxh-imaWFcgFNMZNaY9K0NRvbnmwvR-ci_VrGVnhjiDQASotXzHtNXVa80HfaJu9PZel7iIF/s320/IMG_1018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #15. Bought flowers and cards and gave them to a gas station attendant. (There were two of them.) As I drove away, I saw them smile.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cTS8uLtIflylT_ZCTXABqhPerqxAYmRKgPiv8ERB2NHO-I-betKJ6oiAT8aWctkSCCUHygKO-UEPkOR2xDcb6ZD917hXQ-tXrJdkx9CSpGQn7AHJ-a3kjKlDx6UqIETGovXxw2c8jUg_/s1600/IMG_1021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cTS8uLtIflylT_ZCTXABqhPerqxAYmRKgPiv8ERB2NHO-I-betKJ6oiAT8aWctkSCCUHygKO-UEPkOR2xDcb6ZD917hXQ-tXrJdkx9CSpGQn7AHJ-a3kjKlDx6UqIETGovXxw2c8jUg_/s320/IMG_1021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #16. Woke up Monday morning to snow! Got out REALLY early and shoveled my neighbors side walks and tried to brush the snow off their windshields.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzV05AI2a6FbhK3DiucfH0yzeVUdkwd-kpBBZiAfQsLII_6gklWmbFErMoFJoZRrN0trKntgAZ2kal3_xI9YFFMfP9QPgPgYNvQKqv6IVHT0N4o05Mx3Ai3ZX4Am2-T7l-0QXM7b6Sr-Bp/s1600/IMG_1032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzV05AI2a6FbhK3DiucfH0yzeVUdkwd-kpBBZiAfQsLII_6gklWmbFErMoFJoZRrN0trKntgAZ2kal3_xI9YFFMfP9QPgPgYNvQKqv6IVHT0N4o05Mx3Ai3ZX4Am2-T7l-0QXM7b6Sr-Bp/s320/IMG_1032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #17. Used my cute Treat Holders (<a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/cute-valentines-or-anytime-treat-holders.html">how to make post HERE</a>) and gave the librarians some milk and donuts! They thought the treat holder was cute and the thought was very nice!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNXOWY0BCpBzknOaQUgDS0-21TCyuXKUsS_2-ZiCzZrBHxZtsEmvMRQ0zOMyRdUknTbUHIwCly5MUG-tMySGIX5mjPxnm-klteplWpWUpzcoEO6jLs_LcN0d0-Ch6c2eWRZnbEaQS610n/s1600/IMG_1037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNXOWY0BCpBzknOaQUgDS0-21TCyuXKUsS_2-ZiCzZrBHxZtsEmvMRQ0zOMyRdUknTbUHIwCly5MUG-tMySGIX5mjPxnm-klteplWpWUpzcoEO6jLs_LcN0d0-Ch6c2eWRZnbEaQS610n/s320/IMG_1037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #18. Gave a homeless, smiling, helpful man, who was outside the post office, a coupon for chicken nuggets at Burger King with the money to cover it, plus tax and I threw some extra money. Also gave him a blessing bag with dry socks, and a water. He was so happy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu3e05u43Szu1KlQ0RyemfdXUf-b0jIp8zDSSxyENvNv7a04YZqpvBKfrH-Z5Ny66tRy55QUnp50RVNsJyFP-QMwiqvxV2p32uSW7hl1sQ1_UmrnCcJe6NJ9zvJ2egAZHtXPW1je4HbsD/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu3e05u43Szu1KlQ0RyemfdXUf-b0jIp8zDSSxyENvNv7a04YZqpvBKfrH-Z5Ny66tRy55QUnp50RVNsJyFP-QMwiqvxV2p32uSW7hl1sQ1_UmrnCcJe6NJ9zvJ2egAZHtXPW1je4HbsD/s320/IMG_1042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #19. Made Red Velvet Cupcakes for the nurses at our local hospital. (Heads up on this one--you may need to call ahead and find out if they will take them! I actually have a few neighbors who are nurses, who brought them, because our hospital will only take pre-packaged food to hand out from a stranger. Makes sense when you think about it.) Included a thank you note for them always being awesome!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSQZGWAKa8D2Djh2TfDHWz9Dw7dsbMzR7g9vBPmJBM9e05eqXCWEvCe1W4k7AaIntak6R0E0xppjbIuNLsw4VnK5LDAgiwVhZ6K9eH_pzmOoTe6Y04fcGyLWt6R9bmOLuTzPuyJ08gLTt/s1600/IMG_1049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSQZGWAKa8D2Djh2TfDHWz9Dw7dsbMzR7g9vBPmJBM9e05eqXCWEvCe1W4k7AaIntak6R0E0xppjbIuNLsw4VnK5LDAgiwVhZ6K9eH_pzmOoTe6Y04fcGyLWt6R9bmOLuTzPuyJ08gLTt/s320/IMG_1049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #20. Gave the crossing guard at the local school some milk and donuts in my cute <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/cute-valentines-or-anytime-treat-holders.html">Treat Carrier!</a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxUuNYDuaZPfckgko4n4Jc3eXrkm77kJa3L2Ewx4gbpzA_xt3vrWcyzaglw_jwgFzB5Te1F5L75UgXxRWdEjmjiGyUUPniuKfmcy98lSysqSkChTmiy94EuVlgXZaZsHEbsip1cVdrWLw/s1600/IMG_1061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxUuNYDuaZPfckgko4n4Jc3eXrkm77kJa3L2Ewx4gbpzA_xt3vrWcyzaglw_jwgFzB5Te1F5L75UgXxRWdEjmjiGyUUPniuKfmcy98lSysqSkChTmiy94EuVlgXZaZsHEbsip1cVdrWLw/s320/IMG_1061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #21. Bought the person's coffee behind me in line at Starbucks.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtLkCmgLhB2JaDnPcRSqvQSLK8cbZALns5xATO8MLSDdmdXETT65bKiLAGIlhUWJ0_ikpF5plRR8vwtcbljgh0Uf-avau3N611onQxQpig8cx46sCBz2bNxbwXMvaGIofqHH-rnnST7sO/s1600/IMG_1065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtLkCmgLhB2JaDnPcRSqvQSLK8cbZALns5xATO8MLSDdmdXETT65bKiLAGIlhUWJ0_ikpF5plRR8vwtcbljgh0Uf-avau3N611onQxQpig8cx46sCBz2bNxbwXMvaGIofqHH-rnnST7sO/s320/IMG_1065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #22. Brought back old vases to a local mom and pop floral shop! They were really grateful!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6i6e9aQthVLrcpovdlHf-3xJP4uZCAbfzibh80d5ct0Bm5u1CfPumjuKaxenK-8k6zhvUCylqbXhPA1zD4PcyimT8kw_f7lOfkGz51u0LjD4nC-Zd-PXtOLbcICyg1NWpUA_FLMaXLiDx/s1600/IMG_0950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6i6e9aQthVLrcpovdlHf-3xJP4uZCAbfzibh80d5ct0Bm5u1CfPumjuKaxenK-8k6zhvUCylqbXhPA1zD4PcyimT8kw_f7lOfkGz51u0LjD4nC-Zd-PXtOLbcICyg1NWpUA_FLMaXLiDx/s320/IMG_0950.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #23. Put up notes with the change for a soda, on the soda machines. (Pop machines, if you're from the Midwest!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtfe_DkKItogqknmL3kVR0OGAeum4t4z0sCUPYt575k9rdBgokDPGB9V6ddWoTK-bu0UR8KZGdJu8Beq3bgMtpmqsugohuz8zbibCrpT8catIzeSXVhd55eXJ5Z96dEPS0uaf783DXoaAh/s1600/IMG_0952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtfe_DkKItogqknmL3kVR0OGAeum4t4z0sCUPYt575k9rdBgokDPGB9V6ddWoTK-bu0UR8KZGdJu8Beq3bgMtpmqsugohuz8zbibCrpT8catIzeSXVhd55eXJ5Z96dEPS0uaf783DXoaAh/s320/IMG_0952.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #24 & #25. Gave donuts and thank you cards to both the local fire station and sheriff's office!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFvOZRhxuSjM5Qahj77f3rfvWkY2N7qDp0dvzbETdk8npNbc9Yh-JdCs19otPlCb0607XG_rwq4Dy7iQTwZW6h9hvJA2IBvwFFo5OuuKSFZfCibJIbbMT1xTcTTkYnkCuX-I3sBCVTErl/s1600/IMG_0953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFvOZRhxuSjM5Qahj77f3rfvWkY2N7qDp0dvzbETdk8npNbc9Yh-JdCs19otPlCb0607XG_rwq4Dy7iQTwZW6h9hvJA2IBvwFFo5OuuKSFZfCibJIbbMT1xTcTTkYnkCuX-I3sBCVTErl/s320/IMG_0953.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #26. Made 89 homemade Valentine's for the local assisted living/nursing home. (Are you always finding fun projects to make with your kids and not sure what to do with them all, bring them there! They really appreciate it!)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMz3wbBOpP1JLC_xgk5skYNDoR-QzXup3X-i0MEvzZXkTgtueeqEZ4O20wxMmhga8qUF68uCQZ9lBbz6VuuBV7EsF38WqNPGF82BRwi8770lVb51TU1tHJHV4Q-VPeZSuBrRitgu5F7av/s1600/IMG_0954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMz3wbBOpP1JLC_xgk5skYNDoR-QzXup3X-i0MEvzZXkTgtueeqEZ4O20wxMmhga8qUF68uCQZ9lBbz6VuuBV7EsF38WqNPGF82BRwi8770lVb51TU1tHJHV4Q-VPeZSuBrRitgu5F7av/s320/IMG_0954.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #27. Wrote out positive, encouraging and loving notes and left them on cars.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjREULmTBgFWRc2XvBFzV2e_Vy6UbN4ObE2EWZto6bCoSllM1mNisHGU82bE-ChSzSgYjeCokmG8nSNQLv1RqhefM1BzDtSrJpQ9oTv9Q2JP2X7zi_ZamP3LePuUges12gN3b5_89Z6A5q/s1600/IMG_0958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjREULmTBgFWRc2XvBFzV2e_Vy6UbN4ObE2EWZto6bCoSllM1mNisHGU82bE-ChSzSgYjeCokmG8nSNQLv1RqhefM1BzDtSrJpQ9oTv9Q2JP2X7zi_ZamP3LePuUges12gN3b5_89Z6A5q/s320/IMG_0958.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #28. Donated a bag of dog food to the local animal shelter.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYWT0XF9OmQ2-_tXfr4iRpYHWJty1xMYpcnMOHtUC8B-UnFUhw1GoWXOIXSzGFInOOWWutmKL91Liaeg4acGJ95GqpR8z2Qbr4bot_n4ShuNEGUFXc5DNn7zFG8zIv8ohD69t5kSfYd3Y/s1600/IMG_0962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYWT0XF9OmQ2-_tXfr4iRpYHWJty1xMYpcnMOHtUC8B-UnFUhw1GoWXOIXSzGFInOOWWutmKL91Liaeg4acGJ95GqpR8z2Qbr4bot_n4ShuNEGUFXc5DNn7zFG8zIv8ohD69t5kSfYd3Y/s320/IMG_0962.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #29. Donated some medical supplies to the local free clinic. (Nothing major, just small things.) They are always grateful and they take care of so many in our local areas! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYsUOTCQiqOzyHi4kmeI2_Rx3pwEEWIxQOUz4vztChAJlkutZ1E7IzoseLfoOSFvmPBkdd_G0KbroB1KYXY9n_TRqEmkrvP6ywVANmlzZYIK_rQ0CwTDtp_ZYc1-mhaZaurJMvabEPdMs/s1600/IMG_0965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYsUOTCQiqOzyHi4kmeI2_Rx3pwEEWIxQOUz4vztChAJlkutZ1E7IzoseLfoOSFvmPBkdd_G0KbroB1KYXY9n_TRqEmkrvP6ywVANmlzZYIK_rQ0CwTDtp_ZYc1-mhaZaurJMvabEPdMs/s320/IMG_0965.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #30. Recycle plastic garbage bags. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_GXmiGobfc9qufB6jW8RHDwtLBUFFiwosY_k5PXV39sQzjpbOMSS38UBrhzlfGfYNSEkAnoys5BQfngwhhGTFtSDSFb3e7TvxCPdr6b1gO8qyn_rD0qfSuLEdG5MA3ETcrW-pI4TencN/s1600/IMG_0992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_GXmiGobfc9qufB6jW8RHDwtLBUFFiwosY_k5PXV39sQzjpbOMSS38UBrhzlfGfYNSEkAnoys5BQfngwhhGTFtSDSFb3e7TvxCPdr6b1gO8qyn_rD0qfSuLEdG5MA3ETcrW-pI4TencN/s320/IMG_0992.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #31. Tell my family and friends how much I love them! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnZKAZ-nI6tdlkX262pVP41PxAhCdwGazw6cZPX_FhSZuANlZu6EdxGNFB_5-q4dfbr3CDnpyhkbdTj29CpGA9ATdPwN8AycrpxV5MFxky4X54aOtB9yyzefgXvJOuNSiWfR7ejDR0uD-/s1600/IMG_0996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnZKAZ-nI6tdlkX262pVP41PxAhCdwGazw6cZPX_FhSZuANlZu6EdxGNFB_5-q4dfbr3CDnpyhkbdTj29CpGA9ATdPwN8AycrpxV5MFxky4X54aOtB9yyzefgXvJOuNSiWfR7ejDR0uD-/s320/IMG_0996.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #32. Leave a big tip! Even if they don't deserve it. You never know what's going on in their life, and perhaps your note and tip will be the reason their night turns around and others will get great service that night too! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_x3F32ykjE8vQ9YZXuUfVF-iN12DrqNHvnRH58q4gHfs7eo-EDSLZ2chVQaVS0DhxKbnn5w2w_n4OEfUzdOr_mf6rjpTUc081eDJjmuD-LBTDE6PX8YsU9GI2lLu9VWnBK1pP5zxTw9r/s1600/IMG_1004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_x3F32ykjE8vQ9YZXuUfVF-iN12DrqNHvnRH58q4gHfs7eo-EDSLZ2chVQaVS0DhxKbnn5w2w_n4OEfUzdOr_mf6rjpTUc081eDJjmuD-LBTDE6PX8YsU9GI2lLu9VWnBK1pP5zxTw9r/s320/IMG_1004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Act #33. Mail treats to an unsuspecting friend! Surprise!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbQWCsxu2vhb7zxLgK8WF8VyJ-XpAr6ZC1kO1vaaCl91WQhMdqzdDHNdoJoyg_KsvVhhylpWfX0IFf0CplmXdYhEEfu69QKSNcTxLWf-422ob1Zogi9_oq0KhkaoO9FY_vSk-8dPqS2sO/s1600/IMG_1034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbQWCsxu2vhb7zxLgK8WF8VyJ-XpAr6ZC1kO1vaaCl91WQhMdqzdDHNdoJoyg_KsvVhhylpWfX0IFf0CplmXdYhEEfu69QKSNcTxLWf-422ob1Zogi9_oq0KhkaoO9FY_vSk-8dPqS2sO/s320/IMG_1034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #34. Gave away a diamond candle on the blog to a lucky reader! (See, I give good stuff here!) </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3kcHhAk2T2GB0JthgUvT10S73zWyqVoiH8ySxsBkhFogS5cBkOuHOsYOAYpc3mt_ndj3jUaQV9o14onbLOG3UVCtZctnmC9UIVqUDiFDKN7AH6vFCdO-f9THWGH_Ryd2j2MKXOReC-Qy/s1600/IMG_1044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3kcHhAk2T2GB0JthgUvT10S73zWyqVoiH8ySxsBkhFogS5cBkOuHOsYOAYpc3mt_ndj3jUaQV9o14onbLOG3UVCtZctnmC9UIVqUDiFDKN7AH6vFCdO-f9THWGH_Ryd2j2MKXOReC-Qy/s320/IMG_1044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #35. Bought Milk & Cookies for all the kids at Story Hour. Mom's totally appreciate this!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDHJH9F3aCwVjhPtoDoZtXKvFW7qD6ueC-9tT1I9MJamP8nwyQAPMmkHmo2k0AJg69fGSOlnz4bO_4IOzWY7JOaGtwi5umzrU-Qn1nOEh2FCdpOZ5mEiJCW-6YH-GeXzB9mOGLw9QT4Tly/s1600/IMG_1067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDHJH9F3aCwVjhPtoDoZtXKvFW7qD6ueC-9tT1I9MJamP8nwyQAPMmkHmo2k0AJg69fGSOlnz4bO_4IOzWY7JOaGtwi5umzrU-Qn1nOEh2FCdpOZ5mEiJCW-6YH-GeXzB9mOGLw9QT4Tly/s320/IMG_1067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #36. Place stamps on envelopes at the card store.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #37. Donate blood.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #38. Leave $1 bills at the Dollar Store for people to find.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #39. Buy a grocery store gift card and give it to someone in the store to use.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #40. Hand out balloons to people.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #41. Pay for someone's hair cut (Done by friends!)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Act #42. Pay for someone's gas. (Done by friends!)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ok, so I did more than 30, but once you get started you realize how awesome and incredibly fun it is, to be the blessing in someone's life.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The flowers, and the grocery carts, the coffee and cookies were some of my favorites, because I actually got to see some of the reactions.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You know how you always HEAR about people doing good things, and you think, "I can do that?" Go do it! Be a DOER! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have to tell you, when I first started this, I had serious doubts. I thought people would think I'm crazy and that it feels weird. But you have to fight PAST that! Because, wouldn't you want any of these nice things to happen to you?!?! I know I would. So what are you waiting for? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">All these are just small seeds. People that mock small seeds, fail to realize that all great things come from something small. The biggest trees started from a tiny seed. Even we, as people, started from something even smaller than a seed! Look how we've grown! Go and be amazing! Go and DO!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">After realizing how easy it is to do these things, I plan to keep going. There is no reason that I should just do these once in my life or once a year. I can't wait to keep doing all these things.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'd love to hear what you've done-or ideas you have! Tell me how it felt to do some random acts of kindness! Or how it felt when one happened to you!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b> realizing it.</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Hebrews 13:2</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Want more ideas on how to spread some fun love and cheer? Check out these posts!</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012_11_01_archive.html"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktfFR68ckDG5CazPaC0Xd1bsIGXZUdXqVXqZj2hSt0QT0ZRFJVykwSkxsyDuPlwPfgvHUW1fDEnOkQTVkG39ZAw5LgW00zLA-0xgOBVqCk2XmYKtXDJXxPa5oXqVKShb6AFoK9BiWIN4A/s200/IMG_0466.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012_11_01_archive.html">Giving Gifts To Those Who Don't Care For You</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/12/1-timothy-58-and-doing-this-in-secret.html"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4wB9k3MA-3dDbsdA2zC5WMR_5ZviF_AAwUjuDiFX7ci4zIcaXl4xKSNBnAoPiVzlkcf1FuB3vc_UNCJsB_eHKCu5LnAwOtUGVbRD3mPXYmN7wbYUfy5f4LfDQue6mbx-iuWzVqXHves87/s200/Giving+Shines.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/12/1-timothy-58-and-doing-this-in-secret.html">Giving in Secret</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/11/more-than-generous.html">Recalls story of getting gifts, and giving back</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/coffee-dates.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3JSOkA-kEjhUCYSEeRGe8n6-IlgEldRcI4xBQG3oZ2AakUy2RpcjUNmGvVPtaHKP2RC7AXHPbepyuia4h1NjkjtsooblkbmczMBF5lBiNWQXRNUZBGqOnO2KJ_IEaoPRSOC5ljUm8KCy/s200/IMG_1597.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/coffee-dates.html">Coffee Dates</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/11/mothers-milk-donating-life.html"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0f6uGd3gyR-7ZMrMnYXI9yEikjdusuc1_sKUJcs93JVfTkx9flLT9_F_agqCNiT4kmKQAzAXnhiZhZsvnVsS06jmSsOBXNVtBud-fpxz_zwUYTidXWbccXkpFXRn5oemqySbpmoQtXVEm/s320/Donate+It%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/11/mothers-milk-donating-life.html">Donate Breast Milk</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-library-fine.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2IzStcDWxf-1y6zfLO7i5NB5t9-N44vJ3iJJJnDBIzb1lIjm-rphV1V9h9D582Rm2Cghh_pMDBSL60i7xepUIsb6VYgIGTiJHpip8Uw834xcnRLlmV5wWL1cjkiVuPkExGS8bmB8mmiFq/s200/IMG_1576.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-library-fine.html">Library Fines</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/flying-with-thanks.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ECWkPPP2Rjy94WpXPcD47XSgH-RkB2EC_-FdSPzuhtv8qRutCCHdsaeeCbtF9Lfnmkkgxm_AHqPOHASbBFpVb-HucZcRiel874e6rFiZ0ts75oO7k2bbNyW9U_PJWIwaqYubTENHHMqo/s200/IMG_0049.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/10/flying-with-thanks.html">Flying With Thanks!</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/encouragement-in-balloon.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSfzEbwOYprZBruk7HDG3F_BHwclryzCHf_ZA5hgWYLmJfR2JJtMNgPHQpjEP5mlNZwSIUUWey0EhqpS7dYmWBwr2x-GYgqv1P9Wf0UqAHA8uAlyD3G-7C34IDzsbfz07Ovez0Tcyytbx/s200/Balloon.jpg" width="175" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/encouragement-in-balloon.html">Sending Cheer!</a></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-54602735498383447402013-02-05T13:24:00.004-07:002013-02-05T13:24:40.244-07:00Cute Valentine's (Or Anytime) Treat Holders<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I've been kind of quiet on my blog lately. It isn't that I don't love all of you, it's just that I've been really busy getting some items together, or made, for my big upcoming event! (Here's a Hint-it has to do with a big milestone birthday! Want to take part it in and win some really cool things? Go</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b> <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/02/birthday-treats-for-you-to-share.html">HERE</a> </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/01/happy-birthdayto-you.html">HERE</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">! Two separate giveaways for you, my readers!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Anyhoo-I saw this<a href="http://www.jessmcclenahan.com/2009/12/diy-christmas-gifts/"> post</a> on Pinterest from The Macs, and I pinned it a long time ago.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I drink Izze as a splurge once in awhile and I started saving these boxes, because I really thought I could use them and hand out some goodies! It's pretty simple to make and it's just so darn cute to have a carrier!!!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I started to save a few of these little boxes, but any kind would work. Even a six-pack would work, if you drink root beer, or beer. This just means you have more pockets to fill! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I took some scrap book paper and just traced around the outsides of each side and used good ole, regular Elmer's School Glue. (I know what you're thinking-fancy, huh!?)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4qiK5hFeWYbaarVar9T9px9gBtXogf26Y8YVeJNPZsylSzXrTbGhyphenhyphenKwo-1qFPQ9lq4Bhly3bLgkR7oo7DrvqJFr-UvXJGoJBwmFqc2ofgC_RZnlPdCSkTfuHmZFRGpM1FT9yFdSN0tfg/s1600/IMG_0909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4qiK5hFeWYbaarVar9T9px9gBtXogf26Y8YVeJNPZsylSzXrTbGhyphenhyphenKwo-1qFPQ9lq4Bhly3bLgkR7oo7DrvqJFr-UvXJGoJBwmFqc2ofgC_RZnlPdCSkTfuHmZFRGpM1FT9yFdSN0tfg/s640/IMG_0909.jpg" width="396" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One side filled with donuts!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkRZj7AiNCAQy92_ohl2tWezy0uLTcjAyTnocUJoUfwx3RisDw76e4h1R6N86eDS_RwbdKPwl9jvrCrC7kUeILhJ5ymVuiUrjd2h8r7fysNOKNYhbiEIo_61benYMEN53QZiQHBikfdJL/s1600/IMG_0911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkRZj7AiNCAQy92_ohl2tWezy0uLTcjAyTnocUJoUfwx3RisDw76e4h1R6N86eDS_RwbdKPwl9jvrCrC7kUeILhJ5ymVuiUrjd2h8r7fysNOKNYhbiEIo_61benYMEN53QZiQHBikfdJL/s640/IMG_0911.jpg" width="385" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One side filled with milks! Perfect for kids and adults alike!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx56rDvwXjZQTfwfP6R7ZjGpeG324FSJWNgZju0wpQsEwpABta4uEleeBueHwoYU67892nrCFlXQdJ9Knmx7oex6McfMdhXfvGmRIPhqXmTUmER_fHtKBYcneVhFIUkcNi78P_kh2Hd-dG/s1600/IMG_0912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx56rDvwXjZQTfwfP6R7ZjGpeG324FSJWNgZju0wpQsEwpABta4uEleeBueHwoYU67892nrCFlXQdJ9Knmx7oex6McfMdhXfvGmRIPhqXmTUmER_fHtKBYcneVhFIUkcNi78P_kh2Hd-dG/s640/IMG_0912.jpg" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to be filled!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I am thinking of filling the other two with coffees and cupcakes! What a fun little treat carrier to deliver to some one on Valentine's Day, their birthday, or any day! Easy to hand off, and fun to decorate and make your own!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I'd love to see your creations! Head on over to my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/antidotesformom">Facebook page </a>and share your creations there!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">You Should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">"He who is generous, is blessed..."</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Proverbs 22:9</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-84114642928164039202013-02-02T13:46:00.000-07:002013-02-08T07:33:38.158-07:00Birthday Treats for YOU to Share!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: yellow; font-size: large;">*******This is now over! Thanks for participating!!!*********</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: yellow; font-size: large;">Congrats, Allison E!!! Message ME!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Again, my 3oth birthday is right around the corner.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Since I really love to give people gifts, I'm treating this birthday as the mother of all giving, birthdays. Think back to when you were in elementary school-remember how weird it was that <b>YOU</b> had to bring the treats to celebrate your birthday. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>(I never really understood that, until I found out how awesome it really was to give than to receive!) </i></span></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I want to treat one of <b>YOU</b>, instantly, to a gift of coffee or appetizers with a girlfriend, or whatever!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">It is so important that we as women (or men too!), mom's and friends, get together for some good companionship! We really can understand each other and every once in awhile we need to get out of the house! If not for just the sake of your sanity, do it for the sake of your wardrobe! You know you have some cute jeans, shoes, earrings or something that you want to wear out! (Guys, we know you love wings....)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>What you'd win:</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I'm giving away one $10 <a href="http://www.yiftee.com/">Yiftee</a>. Check these out here!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>How do you win it:</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Comment on this blog down below why you really need to see a friend for coffee! (Only one comment per person!) <i>Be sure to leave your name so that if you win I can get a hold of you!!</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>For additional entries:</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Like me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AntidotesForMom">Facebook</a> and leave a comment that you did.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Share me on Facebook and leave a comment that you did!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>You can have a total of three entries to win!</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Ends at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, February 7th, 2013. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This is only good for US residents (Sorry anyone else, but that doesn't mean I don't love you too!).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Also, this is in no way sponsored by Yiftee or Facebook. This is of my own generosity.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Don't forget my other giveaway-A Diamond Candle! Go check out my </span><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/01/happy-birthdayto-you.html"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">post</span></b></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, and don't forget to enter!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,"</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>1 Timothy 6:18</b></span></div>
Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-71988777282172130172013-01-25T14:22:00.000-07:002013-01-28T14:49:05.254-07:00Marshmallow Heart Stamps<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">You know how awesome your Sweet Potato Casserole, with the marshmallow topping tastes? Amazing, right?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">We have it for all the major holidays, and of course, a few special occasion dinners in-between.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">We once in awhile, don't use all the marshmallows. I know! Crazy, right? Why wouldn't you use all of them? We also, sometimes, don't use mini marshmallows. Can't help it, the big ones seem more, multi-functioning.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I ran out of toilet paper rolls to do heart stamps. (I didn't actually run out, my husband found my stash and threw them away. He thinks I hoard garbage. But toilet paper rolls are the exception to the garbage rule, don't you agree??)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I was scouring my house looking for ANYTHING that might work to make a heart stamp-and with the help of my 3 year-old-son, we found it. Rock hard, old, marshmallows!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6euVOkyxaxKnFRzFAKtEJx4n1siqUS6pPMT93A9iwZw3Xf6AspJD5-9MbrXQj8zbhOdGxaPZpH5-aS9kjWzwwHcK3UEsFsLYXUYetjueDu3Sn2ikBOj1BoubM7x6Kxq1w3nhWlUnVUQB/s1600/Marshmallow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6euVOkyxaxKnFRzFAKtEJx4n1siqUS6pPMT93A9iwZw3Xf6AspJD5-9MbrXQj8zbhOdGxaPZpH5-aS9kjWzwwHcK3UEsFsLYXUYetjueDu3Sn2ikBOj1BoubM7x6Kxq1w3nhWlUnVUQB/s640/Marshmallow.jpg" width="603" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">If you squeeze them together at the bottom, and push in the dent for the "top" of the heart, you can eventually get the shape of a heart.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ43EhbdAwhVSIJi0k3VW0GokUWqGHWajLtPKZhpOR8MFbYFbzdJUKyJPuf-DN66PtBSoNdWv1eEQK435PHu2R0orCi4PyhSsAap-NS0NqiEjUOGbgZ7B7uA_QeB0qfNThtuvvdCEs0Lw-/s1600/IMG_0852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ43EhbdAwhVSIJi0k3VW0GokUWqGHWajLtPKZhpOR8MFbYFbzdJUKyJPuf-DN66PtBSoNdWv1eEQK435PHu2R0orCi4PyhSsAap-NS0NqiEjUOGbgZ7B7uA_QeB0qfNThtuvvdCEs0Lw-/s320/IMG_0852.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See, squishy marshmallow heart stamper.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">If you're in a pinch, these work pretty well. A little side note-globs of paint, don't show the heart shape very well, at all! Make sure the paints are spread pretty thin, to actually make it "stamp."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Also, please supervise the kids-mine wanted and tried to eat them...even with the paint. And, even with them being rock hard. What can I say, kids love marshmallows.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">By the way-Have you entered my **<a href="http://bit.ly/Sw4AnY">giveaway</a>**on Facebook?!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">It pays off to follow me! Check out <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/01/happy-birthdayto-you.html">this post</a>, and find out what I'm giving away!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I'd love to hear comments of how this worked out for you! Or what you're up to, how you're feeling. Just any comment is always fun!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">You Should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Need a Valentine's Idea for your Man? Check out <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2013/01/a-valentines-gift-for-him-you.html">my gift, </a>last year!</span>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Matthew 5:8</span></div>
Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-83681097097843731052013-01-22T09:10:00.000-07:002013-01-23T19:07:19.685-07:00Happy Birthday....to YOU!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Remember, back in school, when it was your birthday and you had to bring treats to share with everyone?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">That's kind of what I'm doing with my birthday! I'm sharing. With a lot of people!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I have a big activity planned to kick off the big 3-0! The new decade of being awesome.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In honor of this, one of you lucky readers will be the recipient of my first gift. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I'm giving to someone, a NEW Honeydew Melon Diamond Candle! <i>(BTW this candle smells so sweet, I almost want to EAT IT, instead of light it!) </i>Never heard of these you say? Well, let me just fill in the blanks for you!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXl9zM8Vhx5iFZzEap52Sj1huL3GHhnTXfQO8ubl9RFvrphyphenhyphen1jf29rhgozurclJ3AqaE1bNoQGxRscskOxDY6J01h6HPHVWOkKqgOcHG8XUM6o9ZLy-Nnyl5-Ptq_32Ge-aWVDFoQK7MLi/s1600/IMG_0834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXl9zM8Vhx5iFZzEap52Sj1huL3GHhnTXfQO8ubl9RFvrphyphenhyphen1jf29rhgozurclJ3AqaE1bNoQGxRscskOxDY6J01h6HPHVWOkKqgOcHG8XUM6o9ZLy-Nnyl5-Ptq_32Ge-aWVDFoQK7MLi/s320/IMG_0834.JPG" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">They are soy candles, that smell awesome! But, not only do they smell, they have a ring inside it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">These very well could be a new addiction for me. I got one for my sister for Christmas. And one for myself, too!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">My sister isn't a very patient person and literally dug into her candle to get her ring. It was a really gorgeous $10 one, but still, she also has a nice smelling candle too!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyy4eDDdBgDVNQc586nXiSv_QsNevnAECLvlWfS7KMAJZ-Su6di34WBCBDyAf_hlyG2sbq2oDHkKT9_JT2TxmveRLW3e7JezWj3nKZQsT6ZWLTak0D_UxqQfUcMJbpckEbj1FufhlcOHU0/s1600/IMG_0835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyy4eDDdBgDVNQc586nXiSv_QsNevnAECLvlWfS7KMAJZ-Su6di34WBCBDyAf_hlyG2sbq2oDHkKT9_JT2TxmveRLW3e7JezWj3nKZQsT6ZWLTak0D_UxqQfUcMJbpckEbj1FufhlcOHU0/s320/IMG_0835.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her New Ring!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Anyhoo-they AREN'T sponsoring this or part of this in any way. I just thought, since I'm pretty sure you're all women who read this, that one of you, if not all of you, would really enjoy this candle! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">HAPPY BIRTHDAY!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-57342091451567159872013-01-14T12:01:00.001-07:002013-02-15T10:21:07.798-07:00A Valentine's Gift for Him! YOU!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0u1vrmHrWTR0vWwA7OuWp5dg9PPr68yhVhNbbROgJqGzRKRUb5wh06Bt69XM9GI60sXB48bd-77XNmklyEgVVhKCG7S3sqWG1ezG0G8L-ruH6vfZA49coyXlnEWMYPrrpA3FXnOxfAi-/s1600/Valentine's.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0u1vrmHrWTR0vWwA7OuWp5dg9PPr68yhVhNbbROgJqGzRKRUb5wh06Bt69XM9GI60sXB48bd-77XNmklyEgVVhKCG7S3sqWG1ezG0G8L-ruH6vfZA49coyXlnEWMYPrrpA3FXnOxfAi-/s640/Valentine's.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "Why in the WORLD, is she talking about Valentine's Day already, when it's only January 14th. It's still a month away!"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Well, my dear sweet friends. I wanted to give you time to pull it off!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">We don't really go all out for Valentine's Day, because it also happens to be right around my birthday. I usually get to celebrate one or the other. Also, for some reason, my husband usually has to work around that same time. So, it truly ends up being either birthday or Valentine's.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">For me, finding a gift for my husband, seems kind of difficult. I seem to struggle all year to find something that he might want, enjoy and even USE! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">For Valentine's Day though, I really wanted to step it up. I wanted to give him a gift that I knew he would REALLY LOVE! I wanted to give him the gift of me!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">For awhile there, <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/marriage-our-house-fire.html">I've mentioned before</a>, that we kind of got into a rut of things. Moving, new jobs, different places, no friends, struggling with this that and the other. Not to mention, having kids! Boy, it does a number on you. Mentally, physically, and of course, the EMOTIONS! I kind of let myself go. I was that woman who like literally lived in yoga pants and a pony tail. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I'm not saying there is anything wrong with it. However, a wise girlfriend of mine, from Texas, once said to me, "Every once in awhile, you gotta step out of the work out clothes for your husband." Amen, sista! Amen!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Two back to back pregnancies can really throw a wrench into your wardrobe. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">But, my husband needed to see the other side of me. The wife side. Not just the mom side. After all, when our kids are grow up and leave the house, it'll be just he and I. So our relationship is the one that really needs to last.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For his Valentine's Gift, I stepped COMPLETELY out of my box. I figured if I was going to give him me, I was going to go all out and do it right! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">His gift:Boudoir Photos of me.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I don't like porn and I don't agree with it either. With that being said, I wasn't about to portray myself as that TYPE of person either. <b>I wanted something classy and tasteful done. </b>Something that could potentially be looked at as art. Honestly, nothing that different than wearing a swimsuit. Whatever I was comfortable with.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I booked it a few weeks out and planned to have a light spray tan (it is winter!) and I had hair and make up done.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My photographer was amazing! Not only was this a gift for him, but honestly, it was a gift to myself. I needed to be reminded that I was beautiful. That I wasn't JUST the yoga pants and ponytail gal. That I was beautifully made. That I was perfect. My photographer gave me so much self esteem, that I should have paid her double. In fact, I offered to pay her to just follow me around and say all the sweet things she did about me!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">How many times have you left a photo session and just felt empowered? Radiant? Self Assured? Wanted? Amazing? I can tell you, I left this one, feeling that way and more! She literally helped to change my mind set on a lot of things. Positivity, grows positivity. If you let it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you're looking for a wonderful self esteem booster, DO THIS! It seems a little unconventional, but </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">each woman is beautiful and amazing! We weren't mistakes, we were beautifully made! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Embrace who you are, and be proud of it! There is no such thing as perfect.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I left my little photo shoot, I told myself that if I could find one photo that I liked, then it would all be a success. These are different from family photos. These are photos that bare just you. You have to be able to look at yourself, and say, </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">"Wow! God did some great work on me! I am beautiful!"</span></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Also, cautiously, don't be vain about this either. This isn't about being a narcissist. This is about loving yourself as a person, and respecting yourself. When you stop focusing on all your bad traits and start loving and working with all your good, your life can transform.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">OK, enough with all that. I'm going to show you some photos from my session. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Also, if you're looking for other ideas, go to my <a href="http://pinterest.com/dusti_reimer/boudoir/">Boudoir Board on Pinterest</a>. I did a lot of searching when I was considering these. There are a lot of classy, tastefully done photos out there. For women of all shapes and sizes! Trust me, he'll be absolutely BLOW AWAY! In a good way, of course!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Plus, 30 years from now, when I look back, I'm so glad that I'll have taken these photos. If anything, to just capture my youth! Remember, I turn 30 this year. The BIG 3-0!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A big Thanks to </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.jenswedhinphotography.com/">Jen Swedhin Photography!</a> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For doing such beautiful, amazing work! Also, for making me feel amazing and beautiful-stretch marks and all! You have a gift, my friend! Keep using it-you're spreading encouragement and love, every where you go!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Psalm 139:14</span></span></div>
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Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-68672150189891706192013-01-08T13:09:00.000-07:002013-01-10T13:57:41.869-07:00What Friends Are Really For... (and a photo of me!)<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This winter has kept us very busy.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The holidays always seem to fly by once October hits! There are always a lot of fun things to do, and lots of people we love to see. There never can be enough time for that.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I LOVE my friends! Probably one of the words that many people have said to me, is that I'm loyal. (I use it to describe myself as well.) For me, becoming a friend, takes time. As I've mentioned in </span><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/friendship-new-dating-game.html" style="font-size: x-large;">another post</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, it takes a long time to find people I call friends. This isn't a word I use casually, and neither should you. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">A friend, needs to be a friend. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Through good times and bad. We should help carry each other's burdens and lighten the loads. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Are you looking for new ones? Check out my </span><a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/09/friendship-new-dating-game.html" style="font-size: x-large;">post here </a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">to see how you can start!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Recently, a dear friend of mine, was diagnosed with cancer. Cancer sucks. There is nothing good that can be said about it. She had a quick surgery and is in the recovering stages. Thank the Lord! However, she found out that surgery wouldn't be the only part of her treatment. Like many, chemotherapy will also be a part of her recovery. </span><i>(I don't particularly like that stuff either.)</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This past weekend, we spent some time together. Preparing as best as we could for her upcoming treatment. Unfortunately, what should be a fun place to go, the salon, was a dreaded place to go. She got a hair cut. A shorter, easier to manage one. It was tough. It really sucks to watch someone you love, have to go through all this. Knowing there really isn't much to can do to help. I'd take the treatment for her, if I could. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After the hair cut, we went and looked at wigs. <b>Someone needs to spice those shops up!</b> It was eerily quiet and kind of depressing. I'm pretty sure, that most of the people who are going into that shop are probably looking for some temporary hair, due to cancer treatments. There is potentially a theatre major in there also looking for the right costume hair, but more probable is the first. It's a scary, sobering idea losing your hair. All of it. So, why make the store like a creepy crypt of hair? Make us feel welcome! Offer us a cushy seat-perhaps a beverage (or a shot of hard liquor!) to make our shopping more enjoyable. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>If you can do all this while trying on wedding and bridesmaid dresses, why can't we have some celebration about kicking some cancer ass? </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(Sorry about the word usage, but it's true?!) <b><u>Why not make your store, a place of positivity, hope and happiness? </u></b></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I thought I'd take matters into my own hands. They do have hair for men there as well. Those were pretty interesting to look at. I've never really put much thought into man hair. But, after looking through all the blonds, red-heads and brunettes with highlights, I found a wig that I KNEW, when tried on by myself, would make my friend smile! </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep, almost ready!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFld1V-hRpWN7HvlJrkJTU72sJibYyD2XUtAA6-p9nRzq-oXU1I9wmUqOtayh6e7vZUu0GESMaQ5L9S-hUjQ6t4iPmRmgPqHiLlFE5k-22iOiaMoI-s664t7BTtsaAXmy_WexkV4wiAPT/s1600/IMG_0741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFld1V-hRpWN7HvlJrkJTU72sJibYyD2XUtAA6-p9nRzq-oXU1I9wmUqOtayh6e7vZUu0GESMaQ5L9S-hUjQ6t4iPmRmgPqHiLlFE5k-22iOiaMoI-s664t7BTtsaAXmy_WexkV4wiAPT/s400/IMG_0741.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ta da! The transformation into a man, is complete!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">When I put it on, she was laughing so hard, she couldn't even take a straight picture. Now, I think I make a rather Duck Dynasty-ish looking man, don't you?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I totally need to name my alter-ego.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">But, I accomplished what I wanted to do. I wanted to make her smile. I wanted to make her laugh. I wanted to be the friend she needed me to be. I think she's sent the photo of us both off to many, many people and had several great laughs because of it, even after the day we did it. If she needs this is get through a day-then I'm so happy! I might make her a calendar of these.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">By the way, this wig, because they all have names, was called The Jesus! When I saw it on the mannequin, I totally agreed with the name choice!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Let me finish this off with a toast to all our dear friends.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I just want to say, that if you're someone I call a friend, and in my life, I'm so thankful. I'm thankful for every day I've had to share and spend with you. I'm thankful for all the laughs we've had together. I'm thankful for the tears we've shed together, for we've never had to be alone. I'm thankful for the fact that you know me well enough, that when I say, "I'm just OK," you know the real meanings behind it, or you care enough to pull me aside to dig it out of me. I'm thankful for the care and concern. I'm thankful for all our fun. But, mostly, I'm just so thankful for you, that there aren't enough words to tell you! I get to spend our friendship showing you how much you mean. I love you!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Go show some love today!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"Carry each other's burdens..."</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">You should!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Leave a comment or some love!</span><br />
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Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-43551089534543408512013-01-07T13:34:00.002-07:002013-01-07T13:35:31.502-07:00Snow is Frozen Water: Learning with Winter<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>It's cold. </i></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Of course, I'm pretty sure in January, for most of us that live in the US, we know this. This is the longest I've seen snow on the ground here in the desert. I'm not from here, but the last few years I think it's all melted off relatively fast. Or, I could have just blocked it all out.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I am the type of person who actually likes snow though. If you read my post about <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/12/shoveling-snow-for-money-another.html">Shoveling Snow</a> (and then thought I was absolutely crazy), you'll know I enjoy snow. I don't particularly care for the cold, windy days. Also, I'm of Scandinavian descent. A Heritage I claim proudly. I can't help it if I'm more designed for cold weather. It's genetics!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">OK, the learning lab--my son thinks the shovel is pretty cool in the snow. He can't quite operate it, though. He tries. Some day, too soon, he'll be a shovel wielding young man.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Until then, he's content to walk around in it and go sledding, and do other winter time, snow time activities.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Today, I thought he would like to learn what happens to snow, when it gets warm.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Obviously, it goes away eventually. But, I wanted him to actually see it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Snow</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Clear Cup/Bowl</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Mittens</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> (It's snow and it's cold! Keep those hands warm!)</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">We took the clear glass outside and filled it to the brim with snow. I tried to pack the snow in tight.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRZi1oYf7LQA0xK0fyWTzQ7R12JuyGu-sXNarrQ2BYSo_pGF4RyDqzpdRVyJ-jgYUlEvc7xlwPD5NeaKFdDPp8i_xX-qUxbe5sPPrMqQD646W0GaKESdJRjx8_eOuesJrZ4bXeuhUH0aJ/s1600/IMG_0752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRZi1oYf7LQA0xK0fyWTzQ7R12JuyGu-sXNarrQ2BYSo_pGF4RyDqzpdRVyJ-jgYUlEvc7xlwPD5NeaKFdDPp8i_xX-qUxbe5sPPrMqQD646W0GaKESdJRjx8_eOuesJrZ4bXeuhUH0aJ/s320/IMG_0752.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgEFCrKS9K0m5w-7YoxoneB4YJk4d7UgY9xvSBF9sIYi7Tnn7o0mr4YALLBsjUKHc3KvHR2W8NUpfP3a80YA1hJcSJYyc4m9H9iFPlh2yjCP1_7_EabP4hV0W3jwWDrnloN_X19KtHuXt/s1600/IMG_0753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgEFCrKS9K0m5w-7YoxoneB4YJk4d7UgY9xvSBF9sIYi7Tnn7o0mr4YALLBsjUKHc3KvHR2W8NUpfP3a80YA1hJcSJYyc4m9H9iFPlh2yjCP1_7_EabP4hV0W3jwWDrnloN_X19KtHuXt/s320/IMG_0753.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFyzvXzsZv5fkWTFNQMKzJa41G7RbJHSp7vxi1-JlM1EuLjhGa8PiaRuVr4q90HQOp0CrXcxgXainSbbdrxoLluzLi8pCcl9LtZQxOcY1sye5DYph_paMji67PC8aywBUR-5vBHWMg1X6/s1600/IMG_0755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFyzvXzsZv5fkWTFNQMKzJa41G7RbJHSp7vxi1-JlM1EuLjhGa8PiaRuVr4q90HQOp0CrXcxgXainSbbdrxoLluzLi8pCcl9LtZQxOcY1sye5DYph_paMji67PC8aywBUR-5vBHWMg1X6/s320/IMG_0755.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">After the snow was in clear cup, we brought it inside and began to watch it. (If you're expecting instant results, you'll have to do something with more heat to make it go quick.)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">We just set ours on the window sill and every 20 minutes or so, checked back to see what was going on.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Slowly, it started to disappear!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CiR09kknM4aBUgHYvaLJqY7YY2ttUw3nNEK1AJfRy-OLuV5JIkPtd-ZpCyXuFf5sk-FWGx6w6JY2gfmj2bXijWC4gM8kRcflxgq4IB2-CvITlWJ-0SmbDQzctSdYRkVW8oN5B_CfuweX/s1600/IMG_0756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CiR09kknM4aBUgHYvaLJqY7YY2ttUw3nNEK1AJfRy-OLuV5JIkPtd-ZpCyXuFf5sk-FWGx6w6JY2gfmj2bXijWC4gM8kRcflxgq4IB2-CvITlWJ-0SmbDQzctSdYRkVW8oN5B_CfuweX/s320/IMG_0756.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">When it melted down pretty far, I let him stick his hands in side and tell me what he felt.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I also asked him what he saw. He saw...Water!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I pointed outside and said, "So, snow, gets warm and turns into water. Which means, snow, is actually frozen water."</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnb9YHx0mR0vVaelo6Pfy6AVZF710OwUS3bztFITlG5PRo1EYzHQYAvPKaI40_e3ITK31yckk1ipLGXDWvu1sJES5_eP0kPVoMK37ZB2WSLmKvjIMo4MYXL4Laq9SvYZq6ysBu1vDyeJq/s1600/IMG_0757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnb9YHx0mR0vVaelo6Pfy6AVZF710OwUS3bztFITlG5PRo1EYzHQYAvPKaI40_e3ITK31yckk1ipLGXDWvu1sJES5_eP0kPVoMK37ZB2WSLmKvjIMo4MYXL4Laq9SvYZq6ysBu1vDyeJq/s320/IMG_0757.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">He thought that was pretty cool. I am not a scientist. But, it is still pretty cool and amazing to see how nature is so simple, yet beautiful and complex.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">If you're looking for a reason to run outside quick with the kids, or just looking for a simple learning activity to help pass the time, this might fit both needs!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">"All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">John 1:3 (KJV)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">You Should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-39772907788594982812012-12-19T11:48:00.003-07:002012-12-19T12:25:15.955-07:00Shoveling Snow for Money, Another Tradition Lost?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGT27KX4kjtgKG46e50ORdhx3pXie76ab49UMn9kV-mjnjSmJ8ESyBYhs085DtGtljvZfNZHt5zPYc8uSs1kck3HmOyECWXufIlaMGrYMaJpGEN_huZv-Kf4iTxWJSHEIwGeekJvgiCO6H/s1600/IMG_0641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGT27KX4kjtgKG46e50ORdhx3pXie76ab49UMn9kV-mjnjSmJ8ESyBYhs085DtGtljvZfNZHt5zPYc8uSs1kck3HmOyECWXufIlaMGrYMaJpGEN_huZv-Kf4iTxWJSHEIwGeekJvgiCO6H/s400/IMG_0641.jpg" width="300" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">It snowed a big snow here, over night. For some people, that's probably not news. You probably get a lot of snow over the course of the winter. Here, on the sunny side of the mountain, we rarely experience this.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">As I was out shoveling our sidewalk (I really enjoy doing this! Seriously.), I remembered that as a kid I DREAMED for snow.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Partly because of school being cancelled for one reason, but the other part of it was the tradition that if you woke up early to a snow day, you woke up to the prospect of earning some cash.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">My brothers and I used to dress as quickly as possible on these days. We'd grab a shovel (sometimes it would be a huge fight) and out and off we'd go. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We went all through town, hoping to shovel someones freshly covered sidewalks and drive ways for money.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We wouldn't be the only ones in town doing this-there would be lots of others out there we'd compete with. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I remember there would always be a few "good" paying houses that everyone in town would vie for. If you weren't up early to get that worm, you were outta luck until the next big snow.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdX7iefKf9XGJ50ysjKsLtd2E3rmb17JMxNuzecqjKKPUeCpJyt6B7VGR4obBKpWdUef2eycms-FOzM7KrmOqYmTYFeH5OkzYfuPtEJW0FBUCDUXgnGSQ6836jm0yXgxTV15FeTdWn5Eb/s1600/IMG_0643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdX7iefKf9XGJ50ysjKsLtd2E3rmb17JMxNuzecqjKKPUeCpJyt6B7VGR4obBKpWdUef2eycms-FOzM7KrmOqYmTYFeH5OkzYfuPtEJW0FBUCDUXgnGSQ6836jm0yXgxTV15FeTdWn5Eb/s400/IMG_0643.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">But, each and every time, we shoveled someones sidewalk, we were doing more than just a public service, or the small odd job for money. We were carrying on a tradition. A tradition that we had learned from our parents, who had learned it from their parents and so on.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">There were some people we just did for free, because you knew that was the right thing to do.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">By about mid-late afternoon, almost all the houses in our small town had been done. We would all take our little money stashes, and head down to the local gas station to splurge our frozen bodies on warmth of the inside and some hot cocoa.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">It's these childhood memories, that I treasure. It's these childhood memories that also make me sad. Since I've lived in a LARGELY snowy state, I have NEVER had the pleasure of having a little, overly eager face, knock on my door, and offer to shovel my side walk. Not once, in my eleven years of living here.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Perhaps it's just something that happens in each person's state. Or, perhaps, it's because, it is the death of a tradition, from my generation. I hope and pray it's not the last one.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">As I started shoveling snow this morning, I noticed there were several sidewalks that still had yet to be done. I know it's a school day, so most of the kids didn't have that opportunity to do their own.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">As I finished my own side walk, I started in on two of the neighbors' side walks. I usually do this, because like I said, I do ENJOY shoveling snow. There's a peacefulness about it. Plus, it's just another simple thing to do, to show others, that you care.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">But, again, as I put away my shovel, and looked over my kids, I wonder if they'll ever get to experience the joy, of those cold mornings. Those days when they're out earning that "cold" cash, as we did. <b>I hope so. </b>Even if they're doing it for free, I want them to experience that at least once in their life times.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjE1yGVi7to_sUiQU0GzKZaW_nUhQZdc97iUxmRk9xrBbESXp5fIIbToY5JR05dqvriNsQjmTumAlc3GvTRhvrGZBzwOMQm35Mey06bkB_CYGe6_aCSD9S_Ze6L-gdVsvglI7XnqqqCOHI/s1600/IMG_0642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjE1yGVi7to_sUiQU0GzKZaW_nUhQZdc97iUxmRk9xrBbESXp5fIIbToY5JR05dqvriNsQjmTumAlc3GvTRhvrGZBzwOMQm35Mey06bkB_CYGe6_aCSD9S_Ze6L-gdVsvglI7XnqqqCOHI/s640/IMG_0642.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Did anyone else remember doing this as a kid? Do your kids now carry on this tradition? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">You Should!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one that seeks him.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Lamentationa 3:25</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5325046211742530012.post-71285325431907163602012-12-18T14:05:00.002-07:002012-12-19T08:26:11.538-07:00Neighbor Gifts: Boxes of Cream Cheese Mints!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Awhile back, <a href="http://antidotesformom.blogspot.com/2012/11/more-than-generous.html">I did a post that asked you how well you knew your neighbors.</a> I know a few of mine pretty well. Well in the sense that some of them I hang out with on a regular basis, our kids play together, and things like that. There are a few though (and I'm talking about just on our street) that I have only seen a handful of times and I still don't know their names.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">This year, I wanted to go around and give the neighbors a little treat.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I kind of wanted to avoid the traditional cookies and other goodies that get made in bulk, because it seems that everyone is giving those lately. We've received many, delicious items like these already! (Thank you!) But, we didn't want to risk looking like everyone else. We decided to do a little after dinner mint instead.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I found this <a href="http://kelleyhighway.blogspot.com/2012/03/homemade-cream-cheese-mints.html">Cream Cheese Mints recipe</a> online and went to work! The kids thought these were excellent and a lot of fun to make. Toddler approved!</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFqNnErpamyyaDyu8axw2pkIkiYi-KED8UoEvzRA69ElaINMcYHr4UQwNZEB3gjr8XyKODzuY5rF_6-az4f0t_RftVJOftsgKqiSlj6I8paSQw1rGkklR9GeX936y3_GJ4ycm59XWJ9Y0I/s1600/IMG_0597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFqNnErpamyyaDyu8axw2pkIkiYi-KED8UoEvzRA69ElaINMcYHr4UQwNZEB3gjr8XyKODzuY5rF_6-az4f0t_RftVJOftsgKqiSlj6I8paSQw1rGkklR9GeX936y3_GJ4ycm59XWJ9Y0I/s320/IMG_0597.JPG" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I remember when I was a younger, these were a huge hit at weddings! I LOVED to eat these, probably more than the cake. <i>(Is this a tradition for your weddings?)</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">After we made them, I purchased these boxes at Hobby Lobby (adorable, right?!) and some tissue paper to put these little delights in. I'm trying for a little nicer presentation than just on a plate with Saran wrap.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgq00Ohy1xbvXeybBbHUh0tmUouICjIq176eag-X14QlpLSSZQqlg7o4J8SSMFeagvw7OGAcC2RcqgXZry_AB7Ea6z1ZAFYYZZneGN6by5H8L9RjHmQk8Sfze7UvmN2uVRQblUQ_14ukD/s1600/IMG_0630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgq00Ohy1xbvXeybBbHUh0tmUouICjIq176eag-X14QlpLSSZQqlg7o4J8SSMFeagvw7OGAcC2RcqgXZry_AB7Ea6z1ZAFYYZZneGN6by5H8L9RjHmQk8Sfze7UvmN2uVRQblUQ_14ukD/s320/IMG_0630.JPG" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We put them in the fridge and kept them cold and chilled over night.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">On Sunday, after church, my son and I went door to door and handed them out.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">We loved being able to surprise everyone with a little bit of neighbor love. And trust me, a few of them really were SURPRISED! Sometimes, it's nice to know that even in a little bit bigger city, we can still find a little small town love, within our communities.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Have you guys had a lot of luck with having some amazing neighbors? Do you hand out gifts to them? What was the best one you've received or given?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Psalm 145:9</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Pinterest?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Do you follow me on Facebook?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">You Should!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Mrs. Antidotehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02849358531013387549noreply@blogger.com0