tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49824953110709743642024-02-18T21:05:07.944-08:00The Rowdy Stroudy'sCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.comBlogger1021125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-32603902099876216662014-11-08T22:08:00.000-08:002014-11-09T15:23:04.173-08:00THIS GIRL IS ON FIRE {13th BIRTHDAY PARTY} <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Brianna turned 13 and we wanted to <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Party Like It's HOT</span>! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I really loved how it all turned out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We had a fire pit for s'mores, sparklers, a fire chocolate cake, fire-color painted nails, and a lot of fun. </span></div>
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And from my iPhone...</div>
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* candy fire topping instructions <a href="http://content.hallmark.com/hallmark-resources/explore/downloads/ideas/birthday/campfire-cake.pdf">HERE</a> (I use my own cake and frosting recipe)</div>
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*<a href="https://www.shopsweetlulu.com/product/glittery-cake-topper">glitter number cake topper</a></div>
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*<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Balloon-Emporium-Birthday-Cake-Candles/dp/B007XWU09Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415552560&sr=8-1&keywords=cake+sparklers">cake sparklers</a></div>
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*<a href="http://www.aliexpress.com/item/6-yellow-honeycomb-ball-paper-lanterns-Party-Decorations-for-free-shipping-worldwide/877038626.html">honeycomb balls</a></div>
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*<a href="https://www.shopsweetlulu.com/product/mini-gold-foil-letter-balloon">mini letter balloons</a></div>
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*<a href="https://www.shopsweetlulu.com/product/fancy-tissue-fringe-garland-juicy-orange">fringe streamers</a></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-45109953770122426062014-10-02T10:21:00.000-07:002014-10-02T10:21:19.252-07:00Halloween Decor<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">First things first. We have moved to Portland! It has been the best decision EVER and we are so in love with the area. It was a quick move and although our rental house has some flaws (like I wish I could paint the dang living room), I have loved being able to decorate a mantel (hooray!) and have space to breath in our adorable culdesac. I'm super grateful and super happy to decorate for Halloween in a HOUSE. Plus, I am no longer working in property management and so this SAHM Photographer is fa-reaking out with joy these days. <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-80872129996473866612014-05-01T19:25:00.000-07:002014-05-02T10:25:20.843-07:00Hot Chocolate Cake <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCnq0lJiIGUSJDMmTiJtLlWsl4baItwMZlp3zMeqrPEiQauPZ1sAa47rHhTE6pYi2bbj3lvJW2PnKZxc668kF_f41O6o4YytfWjBqRf2PR8gJXE7i-p1Sp75fPvgD5A6bbIhD4RFTBBw4/s1600/10247312_10152101841567569_4495941495247161013_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCnq0lJiIGUSJDMmTiJtLlWsl4baItwMZlp3zMeqrPEiQauPZ1sAa47rHhTE6pYi2bbj3lvJW2PnKZxc668kF_f41O6o4YytfWjBqRf2PR8gJXE7i-p1Sp75fPvgD5A6bbIhD4RFTBBw4/s1600/10247312_10152101841567569_4495941495247161013_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>This cake went for $85 at a recent auction, so apparently it was a hit and now everyone wants the recipe. Here it is!</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Homemade Marshmallows:</u> </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(adapted from Martha Stewart)</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">INGREDIENTS:</span></span></h2>
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<li class="ingredient first item-odd" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Vegetable-oil cooking spray</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-even" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2 cups sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1 tablespoon light corn syrup</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-even" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">4 packages (1/4 ounce each) unflavored gelatin</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-even" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2 large egg whites</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 1.27;"><b><br /></b></span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 1.27;"><b>DIRECTIONS:</b></span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Coat an 8-inch square pan with cooking spray and set aside. Put sugar, corn syrup, and 3/4 cup water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until sugar is dissolved. Stop stirring; let mixture come to a boil. Raise heat to medium-high; cook until mixture registers 260 degrees on a candy thermometer.</span></span></li>
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<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Meanwhile, sprinkle gelatin over 3/4 cup water in a heatproof bowl; let stand 5 minutes to soften. Set the bowl with the gelatin mixture over a pan of simmering water; whisk constantly until gelatin is dissolved. Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla extract; set aside</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Beat egg whites in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until stiff (but not dry) peaks form. Whisk gelatin mixture into sugar mixture; with mixer running, gradually add to egg whites. Mix on high speed until very thick, 12 to 15 minutes</span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></li>
<li class="ingredient item-odd last" style="list-style: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Pour mixture into lined pan. Let marshmallow stand, uncovered, at room temperature until firm, at least 3 hours or overnight. Cut into squares using a sharp knife dipped into hot water with each slice. </span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Hot Chocolate Cake:</u> </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(adapted from Paula Dean)</span></b></div>
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<strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">INGREDIENTS:</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1 1⁄2 cups butter, softened<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />2 1⁄4 cups sugar<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />4 large eggs<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />2 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />3⁄4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 teaspoon baking soda<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 teaspoon baking powder<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1⁄2 teaspoon salt<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 1⁄2 cups buttermilk<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 (1-ounce) package hot cocoa mix (I use Starbuck's dark chocolate)</span></div>
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<strong style="border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">DIRECTIONS:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray 3 (8-inch) cake pans with nonstick baking spray with flour.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">2. In a large bowl, beat butter, sugar, and vanilla at medium speed with a mixer until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">3. In a medium bowl, combine flour and next four ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk together milk and cocoa mix until smooth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">4. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with cocoa mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture, beating just until combined after each addition. Pour mixture into prepared pans.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes. Remove from pans, and cool completely on wire racks. TIP: Put cakes wrapped in plastic wrap in fridge until ready to frost. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Marshmallow Cream Filling:</u> </span></b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">INGREDIENTS:</b><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 stick unsalted butter, softened</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 cup powdered sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 tsp vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">3 TBS whole milk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 (7oz) container of marshmallow cream</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>DIRECTIONS:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Mix butter, powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add milk and marshmallow cream and beat until smooth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Chocolate Frosting:</u></b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">INGREDIENTS:</b><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 cup softened butter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">4 cups powdered sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 packet dry hot chocolate mix (Starbuck's dark hot chocolate recommended)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/3 cup whole milk </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>DIRECTIONS:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">In a small sauce[am combine hot chocolate mix and whole milk. Heat over medium heat while stirring to dissolve. Set aside. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In a large mixing bowl cream butter until smooth. Add in powdered sugar and mix until combined (it will be really dry). Turn mixer to low and gradually pour in the hot chocolate mixture. Beat until light and fluffy, scraping down sides to mix well. More milk or powdered sugar can be added if it's too stiff. You want a fluffy frosting but not too creamy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>INSTRUCTIONS TO PUT TOGETHER CAKE:</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After the cakes are chilled, place one on a cake stand and slide bits of parchment paper around the bottom edge (these are to pull out at the end so no frosting gets on the stand). Level the top of it with a serrated knife if needed and then place a large dollop or two of marshmallow cream. Spread a thick layer only until there is 1/2 inch of cake visible on the edge, because the top layer will squeeze more out when it sits on top. Place the 2nd layer of cake on top and repeat with marshmallow cream. Put on top layer. Put a dowel in the center of the cake (cut to the level of the top) to keep the cake layers in place. Basically you will have 3 cake layers, 2 layers of filling. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Begin frosting with hot chocolate frosting from the top down to the edge and smooth out all around the sides. Remove parchment paper bits from under the cake to reveal a smooth frosting finish on bottom edge. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Stack square marshmallows and layer on top of cake (they are sticky so they should stay). Sprinkle with hot chocolate mix through a sieve and add a drinking straw for fun. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">TIP: Make the cakes and the marshmallows the night before.<span style="color: #7d7d7d;"> </span></span></b></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-71408167998984551662013-11-01T09:02:00.001-07:002013-11-01T09:10:27.581-07:00Halloween: Hunger Games vs. Star Wars<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Kai was a Jedi (Obi-Wan Kenobi, I think) and Brianna was Katniss Everdeen. The amount of compliments she got all night was insane. So much, in fact, that Kai said, "My costume sucks!" in response to all the attention on her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My poor children. Sometimes I think they can just be TOO cool for their own good, you know? </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Brianna's Outfit</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bow and Arrow: My Brother</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Shoes: Ross</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Jacket: Thrift Store</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">MockingJay pin: Christmas gift last year</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pants: Wal-mart</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Good Looks: Mom</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Kai's Outfit</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Target. </span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-55397120061777272852013-09-16T23:35:00.004-07:002013-09-16T23:35:49.238-07:00Heading to Utah and Hawaii for photo sessions<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm heading to SLC, Utah on October 18th-20th for family photo sessions. I'd love to take your picture! I'm just dying to capture those Fall Mountain colors.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm also heading to Oahu, Hawaii and am available for photo sessions November 8th-9th. I'd love to take your picture there, too:) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And because this photo session just pulls on this Mama's heart strings...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I feel so blessed to have photographed this twin brother and sister. This type of love works MIRACLES. </span></div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-88291126517679209802013-09-05T10:18:00.002-07:002013-09-06T09:54:30.451-07:00How To Forget Your Kid's First Day Of School<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I posted this on Facebook, but because I got such a following of laughing hysteria I figured it was blog worthy, too. </span></div>
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2nd Grade</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: large;">HOW TO FORGET YOUR KID'S FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL:</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">1. Record on your calendar 3 months in advance that your daughter will be starting school on the 3rd, and your son will be starting school on the 4th. Since she is now in middle school, they have the 6th graders go a day early in order to adjust and then bring the 7th-8th graders the next day. So that means that elementary school starts that next day, too. It only makes sense.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">2. Take</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline; line-height: 18px;"> daughter to school, lament that you can't get a picture with both kids together since they start school on different days. Then go home, take an extra hour to get ready for work and let son lounge in his pajamas a bit longer. Then bring son to work with you since you no longer have a babysitter for the day and give him your phone to play games while you work.<br /><br />3. Take a quick Facebook status update break and suddenly see a friend post a photo of her kids back-to-school-pose. Think, "She must have forgotten it's TOMORROW and she is going to show up to an empty school." (Actually think this thought. No joke) THEN suddenly think, "There is no way that she would have gotten the day wrong and quickly Google the school start date." See SEPTEMBER 3RD, 2013 stare back at you. SCREAM.<br /><br />4. Panic. Run home, comb his hair, pick out better clothes, find clean socks, can't find clean socks, put on dirty socks, throw backpack at son and race out the door. In the meantime, call husband and sob uncontrollably about how you are a horrible mother...so much that he cannot actually understand what you are saying and believes someone has died.<br /><br />5. Feel like the drive takes 2x as long as normal. Park car. Check time. 2 hours late. Take quick picture of kid. Rush into office. Fill out tardy slip. Apologize profusely to the office and say something like,"SO...it was the funniest thing......" as you flip your hair in embarrassment. Take him to see his teacher who has already started teaching and interrupt to bring in her new student. Smile, sneak out, and cringe as you collapse in your car KNOWING that this was one of your biggest fails.<br /><br />This Mom Gig. Sometimes it's harder than it looks.</span></span><br />
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6th Grade</div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-22450773707715619332013-08-26T06:25:00.000-07:002013-08-26T06:25:07.524-07:00Before August Ends<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wanted to post at least one picture before I become the worst blogger ever. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He said, "Look, Mom! I made Lego Wonder Woman into a Photographer like you!" </span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-56602879254431710642013-07-22T15:33:00.001-07:002013-07-22T15:38:23.738-07:00Clam'n around<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've been itch'n to write a blog post. Partly because my blog just seems lonely and the partly because wellllll...I used to write and I miss my own little updates.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Summer is 1/2 way over and I can't help but say Horray because this Summer has been good to us. The weather in Seattle has been dreamy and I feel like we have done so many fun things which is usually so hard to feel when you are a working parent. I threw the kids into day camp this year and it was the best decision ever (even if it does cost an arm and a leg). The mom guilt is no longer--knowing that they aren't sitting on their bums playing video games. Instead they are swimming and playing and field-tripping and relishing in the fun sun. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Twice in the past week we have gone oyster and clam digging. If you have never done it, you are missing out! There is seriously nothing better than digging clams with your bare hands, and then cooking clam chowder. It should be on the list of things to do before you die. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My MIL and niece came for a visit last week and it went swimmingly--like how they took care of my kids went swimming and stuff. But what I enjoyed most was how my 13 year old niece just really loved being here. We wanted to show her everything--the fresh markets, the good food, the beautiful views and weather and it made me really grateful to live here. </span><br />
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-91432984557157661882013-07-21T12:20:00.001-07:002013-07-21T12:20:00.660-07:00My son and his infomercial <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/u6jGTWkwNrM" width="459"></iframe>Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-7072521668841043902013-07-03T12:15:00.001-07:002013-07-03T12:37:27.187-07:00Summer so far...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-61886880315216219272013-06-05T21:58:00.003-07:002013-06-05T22:01:12.117-07:00We are a fun family and a colorful 5k<div>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Sometimes fun families do fun things like run totally rad 5k's. Or walk part of them because you have a 7 year old for gosh sakes. Or whatever.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The <a href="http://www.colormerad.com/">Color Me Rad</a> 5K Run was just such an event for us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Also, my kids came home from school saying that no one knew what the word RAD meant. WHAT??? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i>We are the cool colorful family in these photos in case you were wondering....</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was so dang fun. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">+++++</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i>Deep Thought:</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Sometimes, when you are awfully low, and your dog feels like nothing but a burden...your friend can say something like, "I hate your dog"...and your heart will swell with gratitude for her. </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You see, a friend that can hate your dog with you is a friend for life. </span></i></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-80651728614426203312013-05-30T13:44:00.001-07:002013-05-30T16:10:01.351-07:00My son doesn't do his homework and I am totally ok with that<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(recent trip to the <a href="http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/">Georgia Aquarium</a>. Total awesomeness.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">School is almost out. What this means for me is:</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">1) Now I have to figure out how to entertain my kids since I have a job besides my mom-job and </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2) YES! No more homework.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You see, it is time that I make a public confession. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>My son doesn't do his homework. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My older daughter, yes, because she doesn't need me to help her (er... I have no idea how to do algebra to even TRY to help her). But my son, who needs me to prod and beg him for an hour before he even picks up a pencil? No way. And, well, I don't really care.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Don't be hate'n.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You see, <i>in an ideal world</i>, my kids come home from school and eat a healthy snack and quietly sit at the table and finish what their teacher assigned them to do. And then when they are done we snuggle together and read for 30 minutes (because 20 minutes just isn't enough time for this precious moment.) And then they happily do their chores. And eat whatever dinner I put in front of them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In MY world, my kids throw their backpacks down on the floor, sneak extra fruit snacks, and I don't see them for awhile because my office work is not yet complete. By the time 6pm hits and I am exhausted from a long day, the last thing that I can emotionally handle is begging my son to write his spelling words 3x each. Since his "weekly homework packet" is technically not due until Friday, it gets pushed off until Thursday night, when I suddenly frantically remember that he hasn't done a single first grader page. And then more often than not I say, "forget it and go ahead and play with your lego's, son." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Is he alive? Is he well fed? Are his grades good? Does he know how to put the silverware away? YES! YES! YES! YES!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Then who cares about homework?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I know doing homework is supposed to prepare him for future grade levels, but I have to ask, is it really necessary this young? I remember my Junior year of high school. I got 5 hours of sleep every night between school, HOMEWORK, extracurricular activities, home chores, gossiping about that girl who likes the boy I like, etc. Can't we just let kids be kids while they have a chance? You know, before reality sets in and teachers tell them that if they don't do their homework they will never get into college? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Unfortunately my passive feelings really don't stop with just homework. I got a letter saying that my kids were late to school 3x in one month and that it seriously effects their learning so quit it. I wrote the reason the next time they were late...I'M TIRED. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Is it possible to still be considered a good mom with such a lack of regard for certain school protocol? I freaking hope so.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have wondered what his teacher thinks of me. I mean, isn't it obviously the parent's responsibility to oversee that completed homework gets back to school? So, it's obvious that I am the one making it NOT happen, right? Or can we put the blame on a 7 year old? I have been telling myself I can. Kids will be kids, you know? The dog totally ate it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The basic truth is I would rather hang out with my kid doing fun stuff like folding laundry together (match the socks! It's educational!) then beg and plead for him to finish that last page. I would rather read a book when we feel like it then spend precious time marking down how many minutes we read each day. I would rather tuck him in at night and kiss his cheek and ask, "what was your favorite part about going to the aquarium last week?" then worry about locating that one assignment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I would rather do anything than pile on more Mom-guilt...as though I don't have enough already. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And so, for the last few weeks of school I have decided to put that guilt away and not worry about his last report card that says he doesn't do his homework. As far as I am concerned, his HOMEwork is done with the time we spend together--snuggled up--watching the Disney Channel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Personally, I'd give my kid an A+ on that one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">PS. He DOES complete his homework sometimes. I promise I am not THAT neglectful to his teacher's request:) </span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-3238304168524168252013-05-09T11:19:00.003-07:002013-05-09T11:23:32.072-07:00Lucky Mom I Am<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I really like this picture of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am so happy to be their MOM. They have made me better in every way. Sometimes I look at them and think, "We made them?" I know Rowdy and I are cool and everything, but I think we hit the jackpot with these two. I couldn't have asked for more beautiful, fun, artistic, funny, smart, challenging and rewarding kids. They are spectacular. </span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-23471068421900960752013-04-30T12:56:00.000-07:002013-04-30T16:29:43.987-07:00have to<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Super crappy news at the dentist this morning. I have to get a root-canal-gone-wrong-surgical-procedure done next week. I have dealt with pain for the last 2 years because I hated my previous dentist and I just didn't want to deal with finding someone else. I finally found a nice one though, so although I am crazy unhappy about what has to be done, it could be worse, and at least I feel like I am in good hands.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So after the bad news set in, I bought myself some flowers and a burrito.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Sometimes you just have to do that. </span>Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-17818921038869405432013-04-25T11:47:00.002-07:002013-04-25T11:54:21.022-07:00Also<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So I saw THIS recipe in <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/">Bon Appetit </a>magazine (my favorite monthly subscription ever) and I have been thinking about it for a week. I don't eat sugar a lot--but this idea blew my mind so I had to try. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Dulce de Leche ice cream</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Homemade Caramel Corn (I used my own recipe)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce (I used Fran's) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Need I say more? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Also, every time I go on Pinterest my page is full of food. I wonder, is that what we women do? Pin food all day? Do we actually MAKE that food? I admit I have made some recipes on my board, but sometimes I just wanna log in and see a page full of trees instead of cookies and cakes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Also, I wish Google Reader hadn't gone away, but I am on<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/carriestroud"> BlogLovin </a>if you want to follow there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Also, I would like to know if paying $2500 a month in rent is insane? Ya...I thought so. Praying that the skies open one day for us to find a place to live in a good location without such financial insanity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-16347257275197478432013-04-23T07:37:00.002-07:002013-04-23T07:48:10.985-07:00found on my i-phone<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The other day Kai came into my room and said, "Mom, sometimes I want to cry I love you so much."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; text-align: left;">At church he raised his hand and said, "I felt Jesus's love this week when I spent time with my Mom." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Best yet? "Mom, I just want to crawl right back up into your uterus." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I seriously cannot get enough of this kid. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh! He broke his wrist. He also tested positive for a Vit D deficiency which could be the reason he breaks his bones so dang easily. In Seattle? I don't believe it. </span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-90701367009679890042013-04-15T01:51:00.002-07:002013-04-15T08:00:32.374-07:00My Letter To Momastery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Glennon (of </span><a href="http://momastery.com/blog/" style="font-family: inherit;">Momastery)</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last night I met you. You probably won't remember me from every other face in the crowd, but after I heard you speak, and after I waiting in line for a good 1 1/2 hours just to meet you face to face, I giggled like a school girl when you gave me a hug like you KNEW me. You did that for everyone. Every person who stood in your line waiting for you to sign their book--you hugged and smiled at as though we were your best friend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you for that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">They gave me a cute index card while we waited in line and said I could write my story to you if I wanted. I laughed a little and then started to write as I leaned on the bookshelf recommending the latest self-help book (so ironic) and I tried to spill my guts out on 5 lines. I didn't do so well. So I kept my card and threw it away later that night...it just didn't have enough room to say what I wanted to say. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So here, on my humble blog, I write my passionate story for you to read. Here--I have more than 5 lines on which to pour out my heart. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You see, I used to write. Before the glory that was the Internet I wrote as a girl (even winning an 8th grade award-yippee!). I come from a line of authors and I just knew it was in my blood to do so. However, I suddenly grew up and found a different life of young love and marriage and a baby in the carriage, so time just came and went without a single word written. Then, after<i> I lost myself </i>for a year once my daughter was born, I began to write again because I realized<i> that I didn't want to remain lost. </i> This child that I brought from my womb was so tragically magical. She gave me the greatest gift a mother could ask for--the opportunity to raise her--and in the same breathe that achingly bore her--I lost a part of me that was so fragile and suddenly so foreign that I couldn't exactly remember what it was or when it had disappeared. Then, as though the clouds parted, I began to write again. I wrote personal stories. Essays of motherhood and how she made me laugh, how my boobs would never be the same, and how losing her for 10 minutes in the chaos of Old Navy stopped my breath so fast and so hard that I have yet to recover. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And then my son was born. I lost myself for <i>another year </i>feeling that I might not recuperate--and then in a swoosh of a miracle WHAM came the blog world. Thank God for such a gift--where I could record my journey and share it in a way that more than just me...could see. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have tried to be honest on this blog. I have often been horrified at exactly how honest I have been, and yet the publish button has remained strong because I have believed so passionately that there is another soul who needed to read what I have written. They needed to hear about my heartache when my husband was diagnosed with <a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/p/my-thoughts-on-multiple-sclerosis.html">Multiple Sclerosis</a>. They needed to hear about my pain as I realized that <a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2010/03/what-is-wrong-with-you-son_25.html">my son was delayed in speech</a>. They needed to hear how inferior I felt to so many women out there and how imperfect my life was and how I just barely make it out of bed some days. And also, they needed to hear how there have been moments of pure joy and how fiercely I love my husband and children...and am learning to love myself. <i>And how we are all the same.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But time went on and gradually this past year I have made myself believe that no one cares to hear my story anymore. It wasn't really for them anyway--it was therapy for me and how dare I believe otherwise. I take<a href="http://carriestroudphotography.com/"> pretty pictures</a>. I throw<a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/p/how-i-party.html"> gorgeous parties</a>. I share one of the <a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2012/08/good-things-and-green-smoothie-tip.html">silliest tips in the world </a>about freezing spinach in ice cube trays for smoothies and Pinterest goes viral. And that is all this blog is good for anymore. So why write?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And then last night...I met you. I watched in awe as a crowd of women simply adored you. And how strange that I was one of them? We really were all the same and not alone--just as you said. I wanted to be you for a second--so totally adored--and then I realized that adoring YOU was enough. I didn't need to crave to be the center of attention because learning to be attentive to myself <i>through you </i>was enough. Remembering that love is more powerful than fear <i>was enough</i>. Being in a line of women anxiously waiting to just get a hug from you <i>was enough</i>--because in some way we were all the same. We all represented the same cause--<i>which is to be loved and accepted and unconditionally understood by those around us without judgement.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you for giving me such a gift of understanding. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you for reminding me that I need to write--even if it just for me to read.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you for making me feel like your best friend for 3 minutes--because those 3 minutes rejuvenated me more than an entire year of reading self-help books could.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you teaching me that Love Wins. And even if it feels like this race is still in progress...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I do so love a challenge.</span><br />
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Your BFF,<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/317/076ADACB0250DB2DAF1A7D5B80759627.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
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(my friend Melissa, Glennon, and Me)<br />
(could the lighting be any worse?)</div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-90549413883164423612013-04-04T23:20:00.003-07:002013-04-22T19:32:38.354-07:00just to let you know<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I am no longer ghetto-phoning-it and I got an IPHONE! Praise be to the phone angels. And praise be to my husband, of course, since he got it for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Therefore I am also on Instagram and I might be obsessed with it for awhile.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You can follow me at<a href="http://instagram.com/c_stroud"> http://instagram.com/c_stroud </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My birthday was really good. But I definitely ate too much and so I must go rest my gluttonous belly now...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Peace out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Happy 32 years to me. </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2178224/?claim=9hb9w2fqq5f">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-41454569544641037582013-04-01T19:08:00.002-07:002013-04-01T19:08:34.286-07:00Our Natural Dyed Easter Eggs<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A day late-- but here are our Easter Eggs using natural dyes. My favorite is the green tea!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">green tea</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">tumeric</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">earl gray tea</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">chai tea</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">red cabbage</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">paprika</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">red beets</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">kool-aid for that bright blue one</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">:)</span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-89729329145700229972013-03-27T11:44:00.002-07:002013-03-27T13:25:49.618-07:00Going's On<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.yummymummykitchen.com/2013/03/tea-stained-easter-eggs.html"> (source)</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">2 posts in one week? This is amazing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">+ I have the BEST idea for my birthday and I can't wait to share how it goes. I just hope it works...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">+ Last night our waitress came to our table and told me that all the tables around us were talking about us. I was a little confused, but she said they all loved how they heard my son say, "Daddy, do you think Mom is HOT?" Thank goodness Rowdy said YES:) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">+ We saw the movie <a href="http://disney.go.com/thewizard/#/tickets/?cmp=wdsmp_ozg_4d_google_src">Oz The Great and Powerful</a> and totally loved it. But we also saw it in Imax 3D and I honestly think that is the only way to go or else it's not half as cool. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">+ I'm pretty dang sure I'm going on a trip to NYC soon with some of my favorite girls. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">+ My cheap phone shuts off <i>all the time</i>. I have to go get <i>another</i> replacement. It's taking everything I have not to sign a new contract and go with an IPHONE. Maybe the birthday angels will hear my plea. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">+ Spring is coming. Maybe? I hope it is for all of us:) </span><br />
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+<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> Thinking of going the Natural Egg Dying route this year. I am such a hippy these days. You?</span>Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-91595842979307707152013-03-25T10:58:00.003-07:002013-03-25T10:59:18.398-07:00Dude. So my birthday is next week.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://asubtlerevelry.com/the-perfect-confetti-garland">perfect confetti garland</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I will be 32.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">When asked what I am going to do I said, "Something BIG."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I have no idea what that means.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So, you need to help me. Ideas? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">What can I do to make this birthday memorable? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> I go back and forth between "what is the big deal?" and </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">"why not make this day super awesome?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br />Really. What should I do? </span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-59127087177332581202013-03-11T12:21:00.000-07:002013-03-11T12:33:24.880-07:00Light bulb. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> my green and white afghan thrift store purchase. love. </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Dude. Light bulb. Rowdy and I were conversing last night (sometimes we married couples do that) and I was lamenting about how I am suffocating in our apartment. I can't change anything--there is no other way our bed can face and there is no other way our couch can be arranged and I am super sick of feeling restricted space and decor-wise. It's hard for me. Interior design--bringing out my unique style--is something I love and I honest to goodness just can't do it where I am at. I have spent a lot of time trying to. Or feeling bad that I can't. Or being irritated with how restricted I feel right now and can't I somehow do something that would make me feel better about our currents set-up? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Then Rowdy said to me, "Why are you spending so much of your energy being frustrated with such a temporary time in our lives? We won't be living in this apartment long enough for anything you do to matter. Try to find a way to be at peace for now...because it's such a small amount of time in the grand scheme of things." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><i>This thought has never occurred to me before. To be at peace with what I cannot change.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">You see, I have always thought I could change anything because <i>if I was creative enough..</i>.I could find a way to make it work. But instead, I have been banging my head against the wall with frustration that my dresser can't fit anywhere else in my room and with that said, <i>I must be missing some element to make it fit somewhere else in the room. </i>But guess what? It seriously can't fit anywhere else in the room! For gosh sakes. I can stop thinking about it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Instead. I can be at peace knowing that where I am at and how my apartment looks is simply temporary. My style can be arranged in the future and just because I cannot do it now, does not mean I am any less unique or creative. WHAT IF I spent that energy on a different aspect of my life? WHAT IF I took that focus and created something different? WHAT IF I channeled my passion into something greater and of more importance in the here and now? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Good idea, no? <br /> </span><br />
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-73290447329237473132013-03-05T14:00:00.001-08:002013-03-05T14:41:43.628-08:00Walk MS 2013 and I am making you a pie!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Hello my lovelies!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">This is the post where I tell you that I am doing the MS Walk in Seattle on April 14th for Rowdy. I'd love it if you could join me by either walking with me here, <a href="https://secure3.convio.net/nmss/site/SPageServer?pagename=WLK_National">walking where you are</a> (they are nationwide!), <a href="http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Walk/WASWalkEvents?px=4357757&pg=personal&fr_id=20468">donating</a>, or sending good vibes our way. I always feel so sheepish asking for money (even if it is such an amazing <i>personal</i> cause), so I want to be clear that support comes in many <i>many</i> ways and I am so super grateful for all efforts in the last 7 years for Rowdy and our family. Words cannot express how much.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">To get this thing going, I have a HUGE incentive for you. <i>If you walk anywhere in the US, or if you donate, I am sending you a pecan pie.</i> <a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2011/10/pie-party-2.html">Like the one I make for my pie parties</a>. I am not kidding. I'll hand deliver it if you live in the area or I am priority shipping it to you:) </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Walk and/or Donate = You Get This Pie </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">HORRAY FOR FIGHTING Multiple Sclerosis AND EATING A PIE! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="https://secure3.convio.net/nmss/site/SPageServer?pagename=WLK_WAS_WalkLocations">Sign up to Walk in the USA</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Walk/WASWalkEvents?px=4357757&pg=personal&fr_id=20468"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Donate</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=20468&team_id=332731">Join my Team</a></span>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">PS. </span><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/p/my-thoughts-on-multiple-sclerosis.html">Here</a> are some of my thoughts on this yucky disease over the years. Not a really fun read, but MS is not really fun anyway:) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">PPS. I did this post without crying! Success! </span>Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-35465523535860920692013-02-24T10:40:00.000-08:002013-02-25T10:00:41.868-08:00 Our Seattle Chocolate Tour<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">My sweet Hubby (not a chocolate lover himself) planned the ultimate date--a self-guided chocolate tour of the Seattle area. Better yet, we decided to make it a family affair since his Mom would be in town and didn't that sound like even more fun? We took the advice of the February 2013 Seattle Magazine issue to plan our chocolate adventure. Rowdy mapped the route out according to location and off we went on the perfect weekend outing! With the magazine and addresses in hand, we hit the road.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">First stop was<span style="font-size: x-large;"> <a href="http://www.chocolati.com/new/home.php">Chocolati Cafe</a></span> in Wallingford to try their Cayenne Hot Chocolate (fabulous with just enough warmth).
We left with a bit more yumminess for the road--but I told the family to slow down on consumption since we still had tons of chocolate to taste. The MIL and kiddos liked the salted caramel hot chocolate the best and we were also given some house made granule mixes to make some at home!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Our next stop was <a href="http://chocolatvitale.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Chocolat Vital<span style="font-size: x-large;">e</span></span></a>. We loved the 50 cent dispenser of chocolate pistachio's and the owner was so gracious to let us try her European Classic Hot Chocolate<span style="font-size: small;"> without ordering</span>. We also picked up the famous Pink Peony orange chocolate slices(too bad I was the only one who liked it). My MIL bought some silky chocolate body butter and the decor was so fun and eclectic we stayed there longer than planned. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Next on our list was <a href="http://www.getyourhotcakes.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">HOT<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span>CAKES</span></a> in Ballard. This was a chocolate MEAL and so we made sure it was at the forefront of our adventure since we might be too stuffed later. We picked up the recommended Hot Molten Cake and Grilled Chocolate Sandwich and Smore's cookie. The store had such rustic charm and the food was sinfully decadent. Honestly, we could only take a few bites so I am glad we did not order more! Their smoked chocolate samples were a super fun treat, too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="https://www.theochocolate.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Theo</span></a> Chocolates in Fremont was our next stop. They do chocolate tours but we opted out and just browsed the store. There were samples everywhere and I thought their packaging was super pretty and modern. And, who wouldn't love to get a chocolate library box? Good news about these chocolates are that they are in just about every upscale market in town. We actually went next door to PCC and found the bars for $1 cheaper (shhhhhh!) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Just down the block was our next taste test called <a href="http://wineteachocolate.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Wine Tea Chocolate</span></a>. The sipping chocolate was deep and bitter (pudding consistency)--but I enjoyed it. Not for the milk chocolate lovers out there and the kids will not enjoy it at all. A fun experience though!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">We then headed over to Queen Anne to try <a href="http://www.chocolopolis.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Chocolopolis</span></a>. Valrhona Manjari Drinking Chocolate was what I went for and it was definitely intense, but the rest of the family loved the sea salted chocolate caramels and fruit passion chocolate. It was also the <i>prettiest</i> chocolate bar we had seen. And can I just say that the staff at each chocolate location was just fantastic? No matter what you read, always ask what they recommend because so far they have all been spot on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Our last chocolate stop for the night was <a href="https://www.franschocolates.com/store/home.php?xid=98b755e289785c15e620fe4aa470c491"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Fran's</span></a> at the Four Seasons downtown. We grabbed some salted chocolate truffles and saved them for later. We also found out that these are the US Presidency chocolate of choice--so if you ever go to a White House event (which I frequently do btw), these chocolates are on the menu. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">We capped off the night with our new favorite Pizza joint <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/italian-family-pizza-seattle">Italian Family Pizza.</a> The day could not have been better!<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/italian-family-pizza-seattle"> </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Locations we opted out of due to chocolate fatigue but can't wait to try:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="http://www.sschocolatebox.com/#">The Chocolate Box </a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="http://indichocolate.com/">Indi's Chocolate at Pike Place Market</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="http://www.intriguechocolate.com/">Intrigue Chocolate </a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><i>I would also like to add that I experienced some serious heart palpitations at the end of the day. So, proceed with caution on such an adventure! Not for the faint in heart:) </i></span></div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4982495311070974364.post-38163107580969401282013-02-14T14:57:00.003-08:002013-02-14T14:57:54.179-08:00Memories of Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0s0YCRYTOi9FlcX3sEVVyUNe5zDjWT005PRkuGkjybeA7LzKpNg47_P9pEh_eEmSq4eBbHqc6F4jbD8C0BrtWoaOahGHAiNMBDRRdTuhHzchydiOqis7ehsWcNbNmG8DjVD7D0SGTbDJ/s1600/222100-Live_Laugh_Love_Print_8_x_10_by_amycnelson_on_Etsy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0s0YCRYTOi9FlcX3sEVVyUNe5zDjWT005PRkuGkjybeA7LzKpNg47_P9pEh_eEmSq4eBbHqc6F4jbD8C0BrtWoaOahGHAiNMBDRRdTuhHzchydiOqis7ehsWcNbNmG8DjVD7D0SGTbDJ/s400/222100-Live_Laugh_Love_Print_8_x_10_by_amycnelson_on_Etsy.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://how-do-it.com/Live_Laugh_Love_Print_8_x_10_by_amycnelson_on_Etsy/">(source) </a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I'd like to take this opportunity to announce that yes, I still <u>do not like</u> Valentine's Day. However, my life is full of love and love-ly experiences and so let's reflect on those, shall we?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Here are some of my faves for your reading pleasure:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"></span><a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2010/12/diamonds-are-girls-best-friend-were.html"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">HE PUT A RING ON IT</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/p/rowdy-beginnings.html"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">OUR LOVE STORY </span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">(seriously read all of it--hilario and sappy and true)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2012/02/our-valentines-day-and-story.html">HOW TO SEND A VALENTINE</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2011/02/worst-valentines-day-ever-let-stories.html"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">THE WORST VALENTINE'S DAY EVER</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2012/01/love-note-jars.html">LOVE NOTE JARS</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://rowdystroudy.blogspot.com/2010/02/mortified.html"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">SCHOOL VALENTINE'S GONE WRONG </span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I Amour You, my Lovelies!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">(Kiss Blown)</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">And now I am off to laugh at all the candy<span style="font-size: x-small;">-</span>heart commercialism that overtakes America.</span></span></div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13896293949728093187noreply@blogger.com1