tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76926912989559080772023-11-16T10:18:17.905-05:00Tonya's Treasure ChestThe daily chronicles of a thirty-something wife of one and mother of two that enjoys finding a good bargain, making a great meal and is always in search of fun.clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-45624308217050371402012-10-31T09:44:00.001-04:002012-10-31T09:44:28.354-04:00Its been so long...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little Daisy</td></tr>
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It has been so long since my last post and a lot has changed for me. First off let's start with my oldest daughter. Makenzie started Kindergarten and her first day went well. I was probably the bigger cry baby! I think that is how goes because that day marked a chapter change for me. Mak also joined the sisterhood of The Girl Scouts as Daisy. Just think, this is the same child whose survival I prayed for while I was on bed rest in the hospital six years ago (exactly because it was Halloween 2006 when I saw her looking back at me during an ultrasound). Here she is thriving!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The birthday girl!</td></tr>
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So I still have one more little one at home, who just turned 4. Payton has flourished into a talented dancer (ballet, tap and jazz to be exact). I think that I may have a triple threat thespian on my hands. See, I told you a lot has happened my last post. I haven't told you the best part yet, I was nominated and elected as the PTA President for my daughter's school. In the words of one of my fellow mommy bloggers, "you are such an overachiever, Tonya!" This past weekend, our PTA sponsored and organized a Fall Festival. It was a hit. Just think what I could have done with more than a month to plan!!!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton's 2 tier birthday cake</td></tr>
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I am in such a positive, encouraging place right now. Afterall I have been through it feels good to be reaquainting myself with the core of who I am and exercising all my many talents and gifts that I shelved years ago because of my heartache and loss. Time does heal all wounds but the most important point to remember is how much time is required? It took me 8 years to get back to this place... but it is possible to out on the other side with a few scars but tons of life lessons. Life isn't promised to be neat and clean. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNjxQIHIbBcyiegtHqKYHlmryH39C8sE3sVAp5tI8p1qCafBCECKhnkWjXdTdCYQfdzTJXfAVMAcQZY-tTdotC6cQ_aIdZxMmpmjsaddlN_UZ8nD9TwFoo3RjmQ4whhY999q7VB9uOJgk/s1600/20121025_121235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNjxQIHIbBcyiegtHqKYHlmryH39C8sE3sVAp5tI8p1qCafBCECKhnkWjXdTdCYQfdzTJXfAVMAcQZY-tTdotC6cQ_aIdZxMmpmjsaddlN_UZ8nD9TwFoo3RjmQ4whhY999q7VB9uOJgk/s200/20121025_121235.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall Festival Display at the school</td></tr>
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I read a bumper sticker that really encompassed my stance on life right now. It read, "Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius. It's better to be absolutely ridiculous than to be absolutely boring." That's me in a nutshell.</div>
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Ciao!
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clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-59448225554828772962012-08-07T15:39:00.000-04:002012-08-07T15:39:02.461-04:00Flour Power!!!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, I surf <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest </a>on occassion and recently I came across a crafty idea for my girls called Cloud Dough/Moon Sand. Anyone that has spent hours at the Children's Museum with their little ones is familiar with the Moon Sand, which is soft and moldable. The recipe is so simple and inexpensive, you will wonder why you haven't made it sooner. The recipe simple calls for 8 cups of flour and 1 cup of Baby Oil. Who doesn't have any of those items sitting in a closet at this very moment?! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YenJ5-zZZGs/UCFskGsyW4I/AAAAAAAACC4/mgsdbsT3Fq4/s1600/20120807_134644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" kda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YenJ5-zZZGs/UCFskGsyW4I/AAAAAAAACC4/mgsdbsT3Fq4/s200/20120807_134644.jpg" width="200" /></a>Well, I wiped up a batch for my girls in about 5 minutes! I put the cloud sand in a huge rubbermaid container and I threw in some cookie cutters and tiny cups... Voila'! That is the best boredom killer on a dreary Atlanta day! Two hours, yes, two hours of uninterrupted play time!!!! Now, I will say that there was a bit of a mess after play but that is nothing that can't be solved with a vacuum (for the floor) and soap & water (for little hands). Wipe up a batch and see for yourself...</div>
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Ciao, <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1wo1tln9bjUpkLbA_Y6epiwovSn9eSqg9CsFBYkjrSiDUmdmpqz1HvO4sxUaKUaKLzJc6MRgi_PUAdzsH0KInsnCZ3p4B1FSHeJfQSWiG0D9UxzOpJd3Z2Lr7HsG-SAAalyUAgTuzTg/s1600/tonya-sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1wo1tln9bjUpkLbA_Y6epiwovSn9eSqg9CsFBYkjrSiDUmdmpqz1HvO4sxUaKUaKLzJc6MRgi_PUAdzsH0KInsnCZ3p4B1FSHeJfQSWiG0D9UxzOpJd3Z2Lr7HsG-SAAalyUAgTuzTg/s1600/tonya-sig.png" /></a></div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-82432235296217885732012-08-02T20:54:00.000-04:002012-08-04T19:04:48.468-04:00And the First Place goes to... ME!!!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeling a little experimental...</td></tr>
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I entered my first bake off contest this week sponsored by our local library. Since I saw the advertisement for the contest, I have been pondering on which cake to bake because I have a few favorites. My first thought was to make a Red Velvet cake but this is the South and that is a very common cake around here. Alas, I decided against it. Then I thought, perhaps, I could bake my Signature Strawberry Dream Cake. Well, considering that strawberries are plentiful and abounding, I was sure someone would make a cake containing strawberries. I finally settled on making a Key lime cake with cream cheese frosting. Making this cake can be tricky because it contains various citrus flavors outside key limes.</div>
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Ok, moving on... So I baked the cake the night before and decorated it the next day a few hours before the competition. I load up my car and head to my destination. At this point, I am a nervous wreck!!! I turn in my registration form and place my cake on the table for the moderator to label. I have to leave the room because my heart is thumping. As I walk out of the room, I notice some of the other entries. I am thinking, "There is some real competition in here."</div>
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrr5VYXU3MWYD_-At3B1eOdiWbG08KvnZHo0l2r9g1nPH42L0YRTonCuSSq6LQdTUljnlaCcjjOR9qzSvSN5-oOhbRoeDtU1mw0wSxR_A1O-FTRqtxJjE_h-Hc83V57zndn3b0NQdk2X4/s1600/IMG_20120802_124736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrr5VYXU3MWYD_-At3B1eOdiWbG08KvnZHo0l2r9g1nPH42L0YRTonCuSSq6LQdTUljnlaCcjjOR9qzSvSN5-oOhbRoeDtU1mw0wSxR_A1O-FTRqtxJjE_h-Hc83V57zndn3b0NQdk2X4/s320/IMG_20120802_124736.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: <br />
My "award" winning Key lime cake</td></tr>
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Judging is now over. While the scores are being tallied, the floor is open for all the contestants and spectators to enjoy the dessert entries. My ever loyal children make a beeline to my cake and that was all they wanted to eat. :) The moderator now has the list of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners and she is ready to let us know the results... The moderator calls my name for <u><strong>first prize</strong></u> and I am completely surprised. I am given a blue ribbon, a recipe book on baking and I will be featured in our <a href="http://www.news-daily.com/news/2012/aug/02/key-lime-kicks-blueberrys-pie/" target="_blank">local county newspaper</a>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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I simply can't stop smiling about my win. I am so proud of myself. I was actually going to talk myself out of entering because I didn't want to be disappointed. That is the one thing that I have learned about life, <u><em><strong>it goes on</strong></em></u> regardless of whether I actively participate and engage or not. I am stepping even further outside of my box and I am now on the hunt for my next competition....<br />
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Ciao,<br />
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</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-90710566406818547582012-07-27T18:00:00.000-04:002012-07-27T18:00:06.288-04:00Citius, altius, fortius!! Let the games begin.... <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhShHf0P39V5ThrsX7o7sp6Ci85-Sov5duvlRG1-RUMRNBNNrnF0MDHKu7NxomZn8McM3ndP6krx4BnW__H6oE7bAPek6ooXyo6C4_oATKKldMOFHiOfjYTjdSBWwkc56dmfDI3azTI8AI/s1600/20120721_124640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhShHf0P39V5ThrsX7o7sp6Ci85-Sov5duvlRG1-RUMRNBNNrnF0MDHKu7NxomZn8McM3ndP6krx4BnW__H6oE7bAPek6ooXyo6C4_oATKKldMOFHiOfjYTjdSBWwkc56dmfDI3azTI8AI/s200/20120721_124640.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Makenzie playing tennis on <br />
the green @ Atlantic Station</td></tr>
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I am not sure that there is anyone as excited about the 2012 Olympic Games as much as I am! I have always been an avid fan of the events and the pageantry for as long as I can remember. The 2008 Olympics is actually more near and dear to my heart because the athletic events actually kept me "company" during my second stint of bed rest during my pregnancy with my youngest child, Payton. So fast forward 4 years later, I am excited as ever! I did want to have a party to celebrate the opening of night but my husband leaves out of town for business the following day for a week. I'll find another reason the throw a party, I'm sure...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLmqUXnZ1yJ9cZYArtf1q_xhD1fx71ZJFt0ZvkGj_Jfz5af0f96t9ZsjvIgHxUEX85FhI_vvpeXn6U6Ap-kg_K7hqzmeAms5IfqSFMn1xbrtWxb7cUh8-kw_jQq44s_5YBzJ9pjz8KB4/s1600/20120721_130549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLmqUXnZ1yJ9cZYArtf1q_xhD1fx71ZJFt0ZvkGj_Jfz5af0f96t9ZsjvIgHxUEX85FhI_vvpeXn6U6Ap-kg_K7hqzmeAms5IfqSFMn1xbrtWxb7cUh8-kw_jQq44s_5YBzJ9pjz8KB4/s200/20120721_130549.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton holding up her Team USA flag.</td></tr>
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Now, there were a few thing I did to get myself as well as my girls ready for the festivities. First, we spent an afternoon at <a href="http://www.atlanticstation.com/" target="_blank">Atlantic Station</a> to participate in the Team USA displays and interactive games during the BB&T Atlanta Open Tennis Tournament. That was a lot of fun even considering the heat. My girls, by nature, are very competitive and athletic. After completing the interactive games as a reward, we were given Team USA towels and miniature Team USA flags. </div>
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Next, we visited to the<a href="http://www.atlantahistorycenter.com/" target="_blank"> Atlanta History Center</a> to see some of the mementos and artifacts from the 1996 Olympics hosted here in Atlanta. The girls really enjoyed this museum exhibit because they could touch and interact to their heart's content as well as use some the equipment in the Olympics Sports Lab on the second floor.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interactive exhibit @ The Atlanta History Center.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On your mark, get set... GO!</td></tr>
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The last and finally activity was to get my hands on the Sports Illustrated and Time Magazines so that I could learn a little more about some of the new faces I plan to cheer on over the next three weeks. I really enjoyed reading about Gabby Douglas, the new fresh face for Womens' gymnastics. What an amazing story on here rise to the top in such a short amount of time!</div>
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Well, that is all for now. As you read this, just know that my popcorn has been popped, my favorite cup is full and I am sitting right in front of the TV enjoying the Olympic Games. I hope you do the same!!<br />
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Ciao,<br />
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPAHyBCQyMJ4vZykHt9wDf5Z3xtB9fVoLyN8GYBXPH90Fiz-ooEAOIcNG7s70y4UrUD-MCwc0EnwNX_0PJV1lJ4SpXNnsOEr0qgoA80opwiG8y2CouLjVfb7O_pveP6-YGXDQYmeQzZE/s1600/20120724_145257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPAHyBCQyMJ4vZykHt9wDf5Z3xtB9fVoLyN8GYBXPH90Fiz-ooEAOIcNG7s70y4UrUD-MCwc0EnwNX_0PJV1lJ4SpXNnsOEr0qgoA80opwiG8y2CouLjVfb7O_pveP6-YGXDQYmeQzZE/s200/20120724_145257.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">@ The Atlanta History Center</td></tr>
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</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-84959974242938175862012-07-26T18:25:00.000-04:002012-07-26T18:27:01.625-04:00The Emperor and the NightingaleDuring my usual finger swype through the Daily Deals on <a href="http://halfoffdepot.com/atlanta" target="_blank">Half Off Depot</a>, I came across a steal of a deal for tickets to a musical production of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Emperors-Nightingale-Hans-Christian-Andersen/dp/0805237801/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1343341292&sr=8-5&keywords=the+emperor+and+the+nightingale" target="_blank">The Emperor and the Nightingale</a>. This happens to be one of Makenzie's favorite books by Hans Christian Andersen. Once I saw the price of $5 per ticket, I couldn't complete the transaction fast enough. Why spend more, when I don't have to!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVd0KSL_7_fLTxJdO3sM0gWU13jYZ7oyskH3Llx2ECfUqDZm5DoGTqMv7LojRzYHI7sqfC1BuY2YiaWvcGvV6FZpMXeUZQ5goY7PbTJAlpF9RzIBe_C6GLgoXxqg0azboxeoYsWejehU/s1600/IMG_20120721_111951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVd0KSL_7_fLTxJdO3sM0gWU13jYZ7oyskH3Llx2ECfUqDZm5DoGTqMv7LojRzYHI7sqfC1BuY2YiaWvcGvV6FZpMXeUZQ5goY7PbTJAlpF9RzIBe_C6GLgoXxqg0azboxeoYsWejehU/s320/IMG_20120721_111951.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Makenzie and Payton posing<br />
with the Nightingale and the Emperor.</td></tr>
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The production runs now through August 3, 2012 at the <a href="http://gashakespeare.org/" target="_blank">Georgia Shakespeare</a> Theatre on the campus of Oglethrope University. I enjoyed the musical and it was extremely family-friendly as well as very interactive. My kids sat quietly through the entire production in awe of the sounds, lights and the costumes. I like to expose my girls to lots of different settings and activities, so that they have a chance to appreciate the Arts starting at an early age. This early exposure also gives them a chance to learn how to act appropriately in various settings. Kids are blank slates (<em>carte blanc</em>) and they <strong><em><u>HAVE </u></em></strong>to learn something, so I might as well teach them the best that I can while I still have their attention. <br />
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Ciao, <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1wo1tln9bjUpkLbA_Y6epiwovSn9eSqg9CsFBYkjrSiDUmdmpqz1HvO4sxUaKUaKLzJc6MRgi_PUAdzsH0KInsnCZ3p4B1FSHeJfQSWiG0D9UxzOpJd3Z2Lr7HsG-SAAalyUAgTuzTg/s1600/tonya-sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1wo1tln9bjUpkLbA_Y6epiwovSn9eSqg9CsFBYkjrSiDUmdmpqz1HvO4sxUaKUaKLzJc6MRgi_PUAdzsH0KInsnCZ3p4B1FSHeJfQSWiG0D9UxzOpJd3Z2Lr7HsG-SAAalyUAgTuzTg/s1600/tonya-sig.png" /></a></div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-51202062881302004732012-07-10T11:24:00.000-04:002012-07-10T11:24:26.687-04:00Start your engines!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2eRNwsRPteRUDIPGOv7rIxNOVxMBLMLk6x6hpt4IAlXrtyzhbdmh_EIg3yXYZ8cHi3Yiz266NcxdM6dsz9fJtwfXCzR8P9Dviq4E_8v4DLCGYtFQYR3GKWsMsVXIWJNV1kNQlzs0f30/s1600/20120708_160153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img $ca="true" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2eRNwsRPteRUDIPGOv7rIxNOVxMBLMLk6x6hpt4IAlXrtyzhbdmh_EIg3yXYZ8cHi3Yiz266NcxdM6dsz9fJtwfXCzR8P9Dviq4E_8v4DLCGYtFQYR3GKWsMsVXIWJNV1kNQlzs0f30/s320/20120708_160153.jpg" width="320" /></a>My weekends during the summer time are usually filled with birthday parties, cookouts and an occasional trip to the beach to Savannah to visit my brother. Well, last weekend I thought I would have a moment to rest my feet on a lazy Sunday afternoon... That didn't happen! </div>
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Instead, I ended up burning rubber on the track at <a href="http://www.andrettikarting.com/" target="_blank">Andretti Indoor Karting</a> (sans kids, of course). Talk about adrenaline rush! On first sight of the building I wasn't sure of what was in store for me behind those doors. I thought it would be the standard run of the mill go-karts that you find at an outdoor festival or carnival. These badboys were no where near that description! The superkarts simulate a speed of up to 50 mph!!! What!?! Yes, that's right and its all indoors! The cool part was signing up with a racer name and getting fitted for a helmet. My first thought was, "oh, there is safety equipment involved?" LOL! I donned my helmet and step out onto the platform. I see the previous heat in wrapping up their 10 laps and they are flying by! "Is it my turn yet?" Now I sound like my kids! This place will do that to you though. It's an indoor adult playground for adrenaline junkies. During my first few laps, I was cutting the corners cautiously but that soon changed. I was burning out and gliding around the corners. And to think Mike was concerned. Once my heat was over, I checked my best lap time, which was 40.3 secs.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kIP9VwKkcrk/T_wx0fjfumI/AAAAAAAABiQ/fp80GkEnWqU/s1600/20120708_160214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img $ca="true" border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kIP9VwKkcrk/T_wx0fjfumI/AAAAAAAABiQ/fp80GkEnWqU/s200/20120708_160214.jpg" width="200" /></a>After all that fun, I had to cool off, literally. I was covered in sweat. So we played games and climbed the cosmic rock wall (this was a first for me). I made it to the top by hitting the buzzer and realized that what goes up must come down... by just pushing off the wall. Are you kidding?! I crashed into two of the crew members on my way down. Occupational hazard, I guess.</div>
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Aside from the racing action, there is a zipline (which is above the track), rock climbing, and an extreme rope course (above the arcade area).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I survived the cosmic rock wall!</td></tr>
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We redeemed our tickets on our way home, which are stored electronically the reloadable cards, and selected a few things for the girls. I was exhausted but my day wasn't over... I still had to make it to a wedding invitation stuffing "party".<br />
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Now word to the wise, this is not the kind of place where you get all fancy and jazzy with your attire. Because most of the attractions are extremely physical, it is best to go in comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes. I am still wondering how the lady in the short mini kirt and 5 inch heels felt when she walked in? Someone should have warned her. Tsk, Tsk.<br />
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TTFN!<br />
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</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-30379361101211429112012-07-04T10:00:00.000-04:002012-07-04T10:00:02.044-04:00Cool Parks = Cool Mom<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
My girls are 3 and 5, so what makes me cool at this juncture in our relationship is a cool activity where they are free to be their age. What gets me a lot of points during the summer time is finding a place where they can play in water and keep cool! I think we have officially hit the "dog days of summer" with daily temperatures exceeding the high 90's. </div>
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Here is a list of my top 5 places to keep cool in Atlanta. All on the list are budget friendly with the exception of number 5, but there are coupons available to help with that. Now, keep in mind there is no particular order:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChQ3xLVkt3-ggFbSd0UdGYgPKN-7L_dMt-qayl_bngaDtuBa7LaWdfqepxDSy0LG39BW58PtWe-asRG9NVm9a1bxDDubcJmfiyyWanzv81pguJNjIUtwhfx1u5V8dV5dQ23F7HUu4kW8/s1600/20120627_134820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChQ3xLVkt3-ggFbSd0UdGYgPKN-7L_dMt-qayl_bngaDtuBa7LaWdfqepxDSy0LG39BW58PtWe-asRG9NVm9a1bxDDubcJmfiyyWanzv81pguJNjIUtwhfx1u5V8dV5dQ23F7HUu4kW8/s200/20120627_134820.jpg" vca="true" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mak @ the Historic Fourth Ward Park</td></tr>
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1. <a href="http://www.centennialpark.com/index.php/things-to-do/fountain-of-rings" target="_blank">Centennial Park Fountain of Rings</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://www.h4wpc.com/" target="_blank">Historic Fourth Ward Park Sprayground</a></div>
3. <a href="http://www.thebeachccip.com/" target="_blank">International Beach</a><br />
4. <a href="http://www.piedmontpark.org/do/swimming.html" target="_blank">Piedmont Park Aquatic Center</a><br />
5. <a href="http://www.lakelanier.com/attractions/lake-lanier-islands-waterpark" target="_blank">Lake Lanier Waterpark</a><br />
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It may be hot outside but that is no reason to stay in the house... get outside, have some fun and keep cool!<br />
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</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-44891097878704936862012-07-02T10:58:00.001-04:002012-07-02T10:58:09.648-04:00Just give me a reason....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmhwZ2-aEVhoYsiokqQ8mG8mzZXPSPFIuglN_jnJziLyecy-1l1HpHDv2zQ0V8GSnkRhG-501furVBRmtty5oSgDM5RM4kXpD9um1i9E84pTL-lcI-ehtArJMxULkuTh8L5KYVI43ocM/s1600/20120601_174424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmhwZ2-aEVhoYsiokqQ8mG8mzZXPSPFIuglN_jnJziLyecy-1l1HpHDv2zQ0V8GSnkRhG-501furVBRmtty5oSgDM5RM4kXpD9um1i9E84pTL-lcI-ehtArJMxULkuTh8L5KYVI43ocM/s200/20120601_174424.jpg" vca="true" width="200" /></a></div>
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Just give me a reason and I will throw a party! I have been known to have an impromptu gathering simply because its sunny outside. So recently, I had the opportunity to host a product sample party for a few friends sponsored by Proctor and Gamble. The theme of the party was <a href="http://www.pgtryit.com/" target="_blank">"Have You Tried This Yet?"</a> As a hostess, we were allowed to have the party in any format, so I decided to have an ice cream social. Free Products + coupons + ice cream = Smile </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcMzyQnA8I1QjS_ySsnHWueObMxtLN5b4e05hZLoqL6fNq8l7ALXM4fBjuyODit7fOe_7bRTDjSzvYw4ysVuc7pWtoh2S9627DwPqkDpqJV0zzBnXGkYWztGI-adRnUjFllfBvXxgYfs/s1600/20120616_140253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcMzyQnA8I1QjS_ySsnHWueObMxtLN5b4e05hZLoqL6fNq8l7ALXM4fBjuyODit7fOe_7bRTDjSzvYw4ysVuc7pWtoh2S9627DwPqkDpqJV0zzBnXGkYWztGI-adRnUjFllfBvXxgYfs/s200/20120616_140253.jpg" vca="true" width="150" /></a>Having an ice cream social was something that I have always wanted to do, for no other reason than my extreme love for ice cream. I provided several toppings like caramel, chocolate syrup, chocolate sprinkles, nuts, whipped cream, bananas, cherries and strawberries. We also had some root beer and orange soda to make floats. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDsUIqaYnbjgqafLtEKZ_WPFpTofS52zA8zGqVQpmhRxJuf2ZxNPYCpmdjiKhPqwU8hcvRtWSXNoeJ0Cp8z9zPRdn9R7Xn0VJxAQWinlo10wx7KsyKPrckm9DYT25K3C4mz9ctH2kyoVo/s1600/20120616_135403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDsUIqaYnbjgqafLtEKZ_WPFpTofS52zA8zGqVQpmhRxJuf2ZxNPYCpmdjiKhPqwU8hcvRtWSXNoeJ0Cp8z9zPRdn9R7Xn0VJxAQWinlo10wx7KsyKPrckm9DYT25K3C4mz9ctH2kyoVo/s200/20120616_135403.jpg" vca="true" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gift bags for my guests</td></tr>
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What can I say... I aim to please and so did P & G! The best part of the whole event was that I was able to provide everyone invited with full-size personal care products and a booklet of coupons for the future purchase of those items. As you can see from the picture above the products were items people use everyday, so its not like the products would be wasted. My practical side approved of this. </div>
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Here is a list of the items that I was able to give to my guests, thanks to P & G:</div>
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Crest Complete Multi-Benefit Extra White + Scope Dual Blast Toothpaste</div>
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Crest Complete Multi-Benefit Whitening + Deep Clean</div>
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Covergirl Naturaluxe Gloss Balm</div>
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Herbal Essences Touchably Smooth Shampoo</div>
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Herbal Essences Touchably Smooth Conditioner</div>
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Oral B Complete Fresh Scope Scented Toothbrush</div>
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Scope Dual Blast Mouthwash</div>
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Gillette Fusion ProSeries Irritaion Defense Moisturizer</div>
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Gillette Fusion ProGlide Razor</div>
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Gillette Fusion ProGlide Irritation Defense Shave Prep</div>
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</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-35738535250352059462012-06-12T12:03:00.000-04:002012-06-14T12:25:11.415-04:00My Golden TicketSo, I have been searching my brain for more blog ideas and as I searched through my phone's photo album, I realized that I didn't mention attending the 2012 Commencement at Spelman College, my alma mater. I didn't know anyone graduating but at the same time, I saw myself in all of the young women receiving their degree. The best part besides supporting my alma mater, of course, was that Oprah Winfrey was the commencement speaker. <br />
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Let me give you a run down of how I received my golden ticket, who knows, it may make you chuckle! So checked my email as usual and I notice an email announcing who will be speaking at commencement and a petition to reply to the email if you would like to be considered for a ticket. I thought to myself, "Why not?" So I replied and few days later I received the confirmation email. Some people may laugh at what happened next.... But I had to sit down! My knees were weak, no joke. I was acting like I was going to meet Oprah instead of just hear her speak. This makes me wonder what will happen if I actually met her? My heart is racing just thinking about it... Moving on.<br />
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So, I go to pick up my ticket on the Saturday prior to the commencement, which worked out well because it was Mike's 10 year college reunion weekend. So my daughters and I walked to the grounds of <a href="http://www.spelman.edu/" target="_blank">Spelman</a> while hubby gathered with his old college friends over at <a href="http://www.morehouse.edu/" target="_blank">Morehouse</a>. I get my ticket and guard it with my life by placing it the only place I know is near, dear and secure.... my coupon holder! <br />
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Fast forward to Sunday morning... I am feeling festive and simply because I can't help myself, I wear the customary white dress and black shoes. I arrive about 30 minutes before the doors open at the <a href="http://www.gicc.com/" target="_blank">Georgia International Convention Center</a> and the line to enter is already at the end the block!!! Doh! I get in line and stay positive. As the line starts to move, I realize that the line has almost tripled in size. Now, here is my rationale for finding a good seat: I only needed one really good seat because I went alone. It cannot possibly be hard a respectable seat. Of course, I was right. I found a seat right behind the section for the graduates. Translation: I could see Oprah without looking at the jumbo projector screens. YES, with a fist pump!<br />
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The title of Oprah's message was " Three things that I know for sure." I have listed the highlights and major points below:<br />
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<ol>
<li><strong><u>Knowing who you are!</u></strong> She said, "Ask yourself, Who am I? and What do I want?" This is tricky because a lot of times we identify ourselves by roles, responsibilities or titles. Oprah stated that this is the way to fulfill the truest expression of oneself as a human being. That's deep right!? That's the primary reason why I don't watch reality TV anymore. What kind of life am I living if I continue to let time pass watching someone else "live"? I can't enjoy things that merely <em>entertain</em> me. I have to strive to find activities that <em>edify</em>.</li>
<li><strong><u>Find a way to serve</u></strong>. The main tagline for this talking point is, "Your greatness is determined by your service and your significance." I thought it was extremely helpful when she mentioned branding yourself. This seems to be a prevailing theme among successful people. Oprah stated that using your product or brand to be a service to others. How will others remember you when you have been of service to them... a problem solver or problem starter?</li>
<li><strong><u>Always do the right thing. Be excellent!</u></strong> This talking point sounded an alarm in my head! "Let excellence be your brand. When you become excellent, you become unforgettable!" Oftentimes, in this society, everyone wants the shortcut or abbreviated path to success, stardom, wealth and fame. I always make an attempt to put my best foot forward in all situations but, at times, I have others around asking me why do I go to such lengths for even the most trivial things. Why? Because my name is on it, that's why. I told my husband recently that if he thinks that my final product of a project that I have been working on is over the top, then I should have shown him my original plans. I have tried my best to drill this into my daughters: Always try your best and do the right thing even when no one is looking because God is watching. </li>
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Oprah's closing remarks are as follows: "You will be rewarded with peace in the end. Be sure to surround yourself with people who fill up your cup and avoid "pint" people. "Pint" people are individuals that don't have much to offer you and only take from you. Periodically, ask yourself who do you want to be in this world? The answer can be found by being connected and aligned with the Source. Remember to honor yourself first. You want to the sweet life. So, even if the storm comes, this too shall pass and Grace and Glory will follow."clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-17537968428353037792012-06-04T15:07:00.000-04:002012-06-04T15:10:11.404-04:00Our quest continues...<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/AVvXsEiBN1yJG99ug20Nyf6paKBm4apVY2syj_glD-EDbS7BPkcZLYWLiX4BsiVYbsCSQmCJWGm1G7BAORZtU8A8qjvPsmxQZFOvqWP92RIMDs_DhFK27_2oRBCfCffkeAVzfJwRW5JtC_VnSfw/s1600/20120602_131933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBN1yJG99ug20Nyf6paKBm4apVY2syj_glD-EDbS7BPkcZLYWLiX4BsiVYbsCSQmCJWGm1G7BAORZtU8A8qjvPsmxQZFOvqWP92RIMDs_DhFK27_2oRBCfCffkeAVzfJwRW5JtC_VnSfw/s400/20120602_131933.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amicalola Falls - That's actually a picture that I took with my camera!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xf3zc6GuSEQ/T80DQ7aDC9I/AAAAAAAABJs/g0A6FPbwXRE/s1600/20120602_145002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xf3zc6GuSEQ/T80DQ7aDC9I/AAAAAAAABJs/g0A6FPbwXRE/s200/20120602_145002.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://www.gastateparks.org/AmicalolaFalls" target="_blank">Amicalola falls</a> was the next stop on our All About GA tour, in Dawson County, GA. It was absolutely breath-taking and quite peaceful. Amicalola in Cherokee means "tumbling waters." It is the tallest cascade in the southeast at 729 feet. I have seen pictures of the falls a few times, but I had to go see it for myself. </div>
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1b2dqE4B1gMBZZjNaofutjTdLWX_c93bl6cVo9Zk1OiC2g84LFewZKg1EsDvS78OsCqgXIcj6jrIWl21XFVSmERLPMa64mFqvnRX25Bj-ruaB2vasTaIpJPi73o2n4cPQEjCI5NaurTc/s1600/20120602_133747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1b2dqE4B1gMBZZjNaofutjTdLWX_c93bl6cVo9Zk1OiC2g84LFewZKg1EsDvS78OsCqgXIcj6jrIWl21XFVSmERLPMa64mFqvnRX25Bj-ruaB2vasTaIpJPi73o2n4cPQEjCI5NaurTc/s200/20120602_133747.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton and Makenzie flexing their <br />
muscles after climbing up 425 steps.</td></tr>
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The drive to Amicalola Falls is about 1.5 hours from our house in South Atlanta. It is a pretty scenic drive once you make it out of the city. It is a wonderful place to go if you enjoy nature, fishing and light to strenous hiking. The hiker at every level there are a few<a href="http://www.gastateparks.org/AmicalolaFalls/Trails" target="_blank"> trails</a> to choose from. Since I have two small girls we hike the light to moderate trails and my oldest daughter, who is 5, was the trail leader. If I had to guess, I would estimate that we hiked about 3 miles. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eZLVS4A9wONN_GvVxGYdk43pljomB2oe7U_JSajsYsGwBvo8AWzNq7OHc3eUZ_mGEBwf8w2x1D8jjdjm8ilLDlRweIyOnFGlzPsimT9YFLnPyMbEqOonM92I1CDzsIkhpOA87Fa6QUo/s1600/20120602_140811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eZLVS4A9wONN_GvVxGYdk43pljomB2oe7U_JSajsYsGwBvo8AWzNq7OHc3eUZ_mGEBwf8w2x1D8jjdjm8ilLDlRweIyOnFGlzPsimT9YFLnPyMbEqOonM92I1CDzsIkhpOA87Fa6QUo/s200/20120602_140811.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton sitting creekside<br />
after lunch.</td></tr>
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We started at the middle of the waterfall and then ventured to the top of the falls. Once you climbed the 425 steps to the top, we enjoyed a picnic lunch and lingered by a babbling creek just to enjoy the weather. The weather could not have been any better, it was a refeshing 75 degrees, sunny with a light breeze. After lunch, we headed back down to the bottom of the falls to the reflecting pool. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9dNkVE7FAchWUjxt25zHrpkT_Mptb_lskniFPx3pXE9R4IZeeGzXd7Jr83nJ3opwumOKtoxUzVsbN2qSmLAUQGpbfIqBjN73B7W3yyNbZ3bU37JdSCOvq-cF7QHDN71s_ybsG-lcVrg/s1600/20120602_132055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9dNkVE7FAchWUjxt25zHrpkT_Mptb_lskniFPx3pXE9R4IZeeGzXd7Jr83nJ3opwumOKtoxUzVsbN2qSmLAUQGpbfIqBjN73B7W3yyNbZ3bU37JdSCOvq-cF7QHDN71s_ybsG-lcVrg/s200/20120602_132055.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the bridge over the <br />
middle of the cascade.</td></tr>
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Once we made it back to our car that was parked near the middle of the falls, we took the kids over to the playground. At the playground, we ran into a curious squirrel that enjoyed a goldfish that Payton dropped on the ground. Believe it or not, the squirrel waited patiently for PJ to drop another one. </div>
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All in all, we were out in nature for about 4 hours and we enjoyed every minute. Did I mention what it was only $5 to enter the park and enjoy the entire day!?</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's that crew again!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My trail leader</td></tr>
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</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-10219367184513176912012-06-01T18:52:00.000-04:002012-06-01T18:52:12.376-04:00Mission: Summer Break!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTsB4Tk1BwFxLvWAchISrkVpc6jpDahmuJPhWFUlPMdNg0WntetAW6CauJd8XX1khAfk-hpvApWbrO1UmhhWHHooGDBULMyA-LlE2X426uCKu7Cll9zzoqGAN7l9uf1-SxAW9md9wJPQ/s1600/20120524_152144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTsB4Tk1BwFxLvWAchISrkVpc6jpDahmuJPhWFUlPMdNg0WntetAW6CauJd8XX1khAfk-hpvApWbrO1UmhhWHHooGDBULMyA-LlE2X426uCKu7Cll9zzoqGAN7l9uf1-SxAW9md9wJPQ/s200/20120524_152144.jpg" width="200" /></a>We have had a lot of fun 3 weeks into summer break. The girls have enjoyed a puppet show, a few water days, outdoor festivals and picnics. I had a bright idea today... I should note every fun activity that the girls and I do week by week, just in case someone else needs some inspiration. I have found that my days go alot <em><strong>smoother </strong></em>when I have a schedule of activities and lots of interesting opportunities to learn something new.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QHN6lUxxn7jMXdoQoWtt9jZmeeaqy3yM65g9bxXNbyug91H8V79TsnegyfibhG-TDyZNodUlK-VIV7peZFVFDkceT9yHyl25uyJI5F8PX_adCMIuBe4e5ioC9_GY8JSPlYWD0vtbAf4/s1600/20120601_141215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QHN6lUxxn7jMXdoQoWtt9jZmeeaqy3yM65g9bxXNbyug91H8V79TsnegyfibhG-TDyZNodUlK-VIV7peZFVFDkceT9yHyl25uyJI5F8PX_adCMIuBe4e5ioC9_GY8JSPlYWD0vtbAf4/s200/20120601_141215.jpg" width="200" /></a>So this week fresh off of Memorial day, we stuffed ourselves with an impromptu Pizza Picnic on Wednesday. The weather on Thursday called for hot weather and high humidity translation: Find some water to get into! Our first stop was story time and crafts at the library. Next, we headed over to Centennial Park for a music during the <span id="goog_237527764"></span><a href="http://www.centennialpark.com/?page_id=62" target="_blank">Music @ Noon<span id="goog_237527765"></span></a> series and then the girls cooled off by jump in and through the Fountain of Rings. I plan on keeping this outing in my back pocket, in case I run out of ideas or fall behind schedule for another event.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4NB0yJc6NlLJpksUu7vFkluNc6QzVRsU00_jKTu-PWlufzu-A1DltJPdN8CRmiwNomJ5OYosTdq10GTpKayCZ_52NEk1uW8vkrJiD8euFULOlkk8NOhhRkqqidKjybtCCJ5oUbY52cHc/s1600/20120601_171043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4NB0yJc6NlLJpksUu7vFkluNc6QzVRsU00_jKTu-PWlufzu-A1DltJPdN8CRmiwNomJ5OYosTdq10GTpKayCZ_52NEk1uW8vkrJiD8euFULOlkk8NOhhRkqqidKjybtCCJ5oUbY52cHc/s200/20120601_171043.jpg" width="200" /></a>After all of my errands were complete, I rewarded the girls for good behavior with a free donut in honor of National Donut Day from Krispy Kreme. Believe it or not, we were able to pick whatever doughnut we wanted, not just one of the original glazed. We loaded back into the car and headed to the library so that Makenie and Payon could turn in their reading logs for a prize as part of the <a href="http://www.claytonpl.org/features/srp2012/index.cfm#kids" target="_blank">Clayton County Dream Big - Read!</a> program.</div>
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Stay tuned for our next installation of Mission: Summer Break!</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-55893602684197843992012-05-17T11:15:00.001-04:002012-05-17T11:17:55.054-04:00Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens....These are a few of my favorite things.... As I type this post, I am humming the words from the <u>Sound of Music</u>. On really rough days, this list comes in handy and thank goodness all items are accessible. The only difference between my list of favorite things and Oprah's is this.... There is no giveaway involved. LOL! I'll start with 10 favorites. Feel free to tell me how you feel about my list.<br />
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<li>My pink and white polka dot Snoozies. It's like wrapping my feet in cloud and hanging out around the house.</li>
<li>A Grilled Peanut Butter and Strawberry Jam sandwich. Two words: Delicious and addictive. I saw Bobby Flay make one on his show and I <em>had</em> to try it. Of course, I am using my homemade Strawberry Jam.</li>
<li>Banana Pudding Milkshakes from Chick-fil-a. I hate that the shake is always for a limited time. At least, I have some to look forward to each Spring.</li>
<li>Coupons, need I say more?</li>
<li>My Oster 10 speed blender comes in handy when my sweet tooth is attempting to over power my will. I throw some fruit in the blender and make a quick fruit smoothie to end the battle.</li>
<li>My Kindle. No matter where I go, I always have entertainment or motivation right at my fingertips.</li>
<li>Wet Wipes. I have yet to find a stain that couldn't be tamed by a wipe!</li>
<li>Ivory Body Wash I have tried several body washes and most leave me too greasy, too dry or with too much residue. Oddly enough, I can't use the Ivory soap bar because it makes me itch.</li>
<li>C.O. Bigelow Moisturizing lip shine. I CAN'T concentrate with dry, ashy lips. This seems to be the only lip balm that doesn't just sit on the top of my lips like an oil slick. It actually moisturizes.</li>
<li>California Burger at Steak-n-Shake because its the closest thing to an In-n-Out Burger on this side of the Mississippi!</li>
</ol>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-51202858707721487612012-05-10T15:56:00.000-04:002012-05-10T16:03:49.996-04:00I've been to the mountaintop<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Previously I mentioned that we were going to dive head first into everything that Georgia has to offer as far as state parks, museums, culture and history. Our latest installment of "All things GA" takes us to a hike at <a href="http://www.getoutdoorsgeorgia.org/parks/index.asp?parkId=42" target="_blank">Panola Mountain</a> located in Stockbridge, GA. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSN-VUCFUDa2AOc0eFzMYxmGXpiXnyEtB3TBdpAWTqqHJUAAYwMD2S8Kn2DTT5JOATgJDSOvTfD0l0taeFEdnbdE7pj7-2lwNkQWQ6MU9ACZZZL7WZ3PKMl8GFK7cuhPKsvW1rHBgLUs/s1600/20120505_122804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" dba="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSN-VUCFUDa2AOc0eFzMYxmGXpiXnyEtB3TBdpAWTqqHJUAAYwMD2S8Kn2DTT5JOATgJDSOvTfD0l0taeFEdnbdE7pj7-2lwNkQWQ6MU9ACZZZL7WZ3PKMl8GFK7cuhPKsvW1rHBgLUs/s320/20120505_122804.jpg" width="320" /></a>It has been on my list for a while but seemingly bothersome minute things like strollers, potty training, pregnancy and bed rest always got in the way of fun. Now that none of that above applies, the crew and I rose early (for a Saturday anyway) and headed for that giant beacon of granite. We walked the smaller self-guided hike that was just a little over a mile long instead of the 2.5 hour guided tour with a Ranger because our girls are still a little too young endure the terrain and the distance of a longer hike. My girls handled the 1+ mile hike like champs because that's part of our weekly workout anyway at a neighborhood park. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love my hat because it is practical...</td></tr>
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The weather was perfect. It was sunny with a few clouds and a gentle breeze, that was a relief when in the shade the tree's understory. The view from the summit was very pretty and I could have stayed longer to enjoy the view but I was starting to get hungry. Tonya + Hunger simply doesn't mix well and should be avoided at all cost. My girls most enjoyed watching the animals in their natural environment. Payton couldn't understand why the lizards kept running from her... that child is fearless and I like it!</div>
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After lunch we enjoyed another light trek around Alexander Lake. We watched the turtles sun bathe on a log in the center of the log. My husband was so excited that he scared the turtles back into the water to safety. Mike was convinced that he would capture a turtle and bring it home with us... Good thing for me that the turtles returned back to water in time. I am not interested in having a turtle. That's just one more thing to clean up after. No, thanks!</div>
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Next stop... <a href="http://gastateparks.org/info/providence/" target="_blank">Georgia's Little Grand Canyon</a>!</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-68559214900414141712012-04-27T10:00:00.000-04:002012-06-04T14:26:43.716-04:00My light green thumbMy girls and I are trying once again to produce veggies and fruit from seeds. My thumb is a little greened since the last time I tried to plant any fruits or veggies. My previous attempt in growing a small garden was not a success. I only yielded a small watermelon about the size of an apple!<br />
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We are hoping for some good results. We are growing, watermelons, yellow squash, carrots and pumpkins. Here is my little farmer Payton hard at work planting our seedlings:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxiPwzMQrV83P1k83aTK1bMyTBXe94sM5iFPjRNPd3MQizC-gznsljoaGfNqPB5hOQpqWjsKJFO4xnPq_wjoJ0qxevYGloDlaHB2ygPTVggg8Wf9FvssFoxUovOWRKae5JAxJ9UFeduLc/s1600/20120411_105612.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/AVvXsEgxiPwzMQrV83P1k83aTK1bMyTBXe94sM5iFPjRNPd3MQizC-gznsljoaGfNqPB5hOQpqWjsKJFO4xnPq_wjoJ0qxevYGloDlaHB2ygPTVggg8Wf9FvssFoxUovOWRKae5JAxJ9UFeduLc/s320/20120411_105612.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great photo op!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Filling each container with soil.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water + sunshine= yum!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now we wait...</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvzjEnqsEyi4OCrFlxVukgpzT_FV6FwAHDUMJkaCRIe8l6sfeKrSmetMcuJo50jbHSWy8kC1W19JmOXMpczqaW6FMCN-DScejtvxSSecCvh3xKoZ6Yq_qcCgKDi_A_eFaFkndNEh4leI/s1600/20120424_162253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>UPDATE: Ten days later<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh846tqt8Vxv8hzCEwyrZkFcbQsBn5A2XNx4GIyjytKcktTZqh1bTquWijbp8lDzrN4LtbkbqJbHarrBCNM74kpBvrUcwrpbv-bo1K_JW-ipjqD9o1qzOy25A13Lq1RjfKuzeLJAK96a8g/s1600/20120424_162253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh846tqt8Vxv8hzCEwyrZkFcbQsBn5A2XNx4GIyjytKcktTZqh1bTquWijbp8lDzrN4LtbkbqJbHarrBCNM74kpBvrUcwrpbv-bo1K_JW-ipjqD9o1qzOy25A13Lq1RjfKuzeLJAK96a8g/s200/20120424_162253.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watermelon seedlings</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi560nFCa2wojCOzM0P_eXS5J9-LhiG5mZZYxGwkU30diDCO33y3Lfa8V_ICO8oD7xSvo_hf2Ea75nMkUybtfSgC8QDfpUmhdWNnRwaA9Yg2fudcaWHWMEO1qMjroyV-_j2tCOddopO6Wc/s1600/20120424_162302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi560nFCa2wojCOzM0P_eXS5J9-LhiG5mZZYxGwkU30diDCO33y3Lfa8V_ICO8oD7xSvo_hf2Ea75nMkUybtfSgC8QDfpUmhdWNnRwaA9Yg2fudcaWHWMEO1qMjroyV-_j2tCOddopO6Wc/s200/20120424_162302.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squash seedlings</td></tr>
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Forty Days plus days later, we have a few squash plants growing on the vines. Everyone was excited!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGI-aw8hIeWEgXHoJ6TGcLH3ngkuwb5So1tXMb3LCgJ8YlYIUpedTC-RgY37y6GkPWti4BoHrap_yafhazhYCYey665ZGVgDMimAp2Wsxe7HVbyUNqf1efX9YElbS_GayDG4AjsoQFIo/s1600/20120604_141822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGI-aw8hIeWEgXHoJ6TGcLH3ngkuwb5So1tXMb3LCgJ8YlYIUpedTC-RgY37y6GkPWti4BoHrap_yafhazhYCYey665ZGVgDMimAp2Wsxe7HVbyUNqf1efX9YElbS_GayDG4AjsoQFIo/s200/20120604_141822.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the yellow squash <br />
growing on the vine.</td></tr>
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<br />clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-14818309487484806552012-04-24T15:57:00.002-04:002012-07-10T09:59:39.340-04:00Ahh... Sweet Destin....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GIWfFyiBlsk/T5cClalln6I/AAAAAAAAAxw/ZZM_TvUJEb4/s1600/20120423_121424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GIWfFyiBlsk/T5cClalln6I/AAAAAAAAAxw/ZZM_TvUJEb4/s200/20120423_121424.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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This past weekend we spent 4 days in beautiful <a href="http://www.destin.com/" target="_blank">Destin, FL</a>, where the water of the color blue only found in jewels. Gorgeous!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhG563rapja9SSepf4z-xbBNAtOBqElSCbBKclmipeUpD5bJTwCQlZnE9Xj2QAb3qVKdI8Iaw2a1ZE5DY4jg9jZ9GfAJXSoa3WqwTfL-ZUopxLDThVDRYZGCJGplApct5w0M2cAWSPIU/s1600/20120420_144328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhG563rapja9SSepf4z-xbBNAtOBqElSCbBKclmipeUpD5bJTwCQlZnE9Xj2QAb3qVKdI8Iaw2a1ZE5DY4jg9jZ9GfAJXSoa3WqwTfL-ZUopxLDThVDRYZGCJGplApct5w0M2cAWSPIU/s200/20120420_144328.jpg" width="200" /></a>We rented a beach villa on a golf resort with 2 other families called <a href="http://www.sandestin.com/" target="_blank">Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort</a>. I started my trip with the objective of enjoying the weather, the view and being around friends. I achieved all my goals and even got a little shopping in at the <a href="http://silversandsoutlet.com/" target="_blank">Silver Sands Factory Stores</a> (not without my coupons handy).<br />
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One the first evening there, we went to eat a family fun center called <a href="http://www.fatdaddyspizza.com/" target="_blank">Fat Daddy's Pizza </a>because everyone was in the mood for really good pizza outside of standard delivery! The bright neon signs, flashing lights and kids running around with arms full of tickets and tokens was not a great indicator of what I would consider to be a place that serve gourmet pizza as the ad noted!! I will be the first to admit that the pizza at this establishment was <b><i>hands down</i></b> in my top 3 favorite pizza places. After one bite, I was in love and seeing fireworks! I was pleasantly surprised to say the least. Added bonus, you get to feed live alligators as well out on the deck.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5wo4vyoH2E/T5cClbIoN_I/AAAAAAAAAxw/ZDqMack6byM/s1600/20120420_145409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5wo4vyoH2E/T5cClbIoN_I/AAAAAAAAAxw/ZDqMack6byM/s200/20120420_145409.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
So over the next 4 days, we gave to kids a chance to splash in the pool and dig sand castles to their hearts content. <b>What a great weekend!</b><br />
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I love to bake, so I did my best to satiate everyone's sweet tooth by crafting a Red Velvet cake and a Banana Pudding Cheesecake to handle the task. Both were a success.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6AoX4taVz0UvcDzQWkA4hsIB5Om6ff-Y_n9drcmOLGLxCFpDF2SRGL7vy1pcyzyZcE4jCSyoy7uTqLoNMt3iFWDM4fq4TSxup7GjqiJabIhKnXhC8J1g-05mUnWaoy2Ca7bU3EjvwCVg/s1600/20120419_231923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6AoX4taVz0UvcDzQWkA4hsIB5Om6ff-Y_n9drcmOLGLxCFpDF2SRGL7vy1pcyzyZcE4jCSyoy7uTqLoNMt3iFWDM4fq4TSxup7GjqiJabIhKnXhC8J1g-05mUnWaoy2Ca7bU3EjvwCVg/s200/20120419_231923.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Velvet Cake</td></tr>
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Here are some pictures from the trip enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBY3g3cdM12X4uZC5hED251OLSabn1F8mXFDfvadVtzx-Ixqrq3QhIjinwMNB4M61bby0mNuxX0ncY3eLuWcoeTYtKjBKQM6fujHswwx-yyMgl0D7ZSvsbSHnGg9zblMs-RLMYqEe69qU/s1600/20120423_121127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBY3g3cdM12X4uZC5hED251OLSabn1F8mXFDfvadVtzx-Ixqrq3QhIjinwMNB4M61bby0mNuxX0ncY3eLuWcoeTYtKjBKQM6fujHswwx-yyMgl0D7ZSvsbSHnGg9zblMs-RLMYqEe69qU/s200/20120423_121127.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdoWABhtIHBJLeeF0Fx4oMjjOdHiWtmv1Fmlw1fzdMVeCvjNl6zb8zjjqGKZHb32gZdWqILLkD3bqmv3gVlPit9HZS5zIewnhc4az6eCEO2E38Dd9JMLv7mv819dBkGY0GtoIJQpnZ6Q/s1600/20120422_131222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdoWABhtIHBJLeeF0Fx4oMjjOdHiWtmv1Fmlw1fzdMVeCvjNl6zb8zjjqGKZHb32gZdWqILLkD3bqmv3gVlPit9HZS5zIewnhc4az6eCEO2E38Dd9JMLv7mv819dBkGY0GtoIJQpnZ6Q/s200/20120422_131222.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdvYYxngM_RvMptE0qNvOq8xH17zwZr0K265TynFc1WHJs3aWeZcMwBWFShAO6eca39mzhA09wdxb7vaqLc6SITieNIzPV5LvjZaIcPkPuEG9RIstmYUELH_UdxCRkl1OopZDWZAH6wXw/s1600/20120423_121204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdvYYxngM_RvMptE0qNvOq8xH17zwZr0K265TynFc1WHJs3aWeZcMwBWFShAO6eca39mzhA09wdxb7vaqLc6SITieNIzPV5LvjZaIcPkPuEG9RIstmYUELH_UdxCRkl1OopZDWZAH6wXw/s200/20120423_121204.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ShXbtdZQytTM6uUpDsk0AXrJ2yIvL5n2txK8TeXwRhlPV-C-TYENWxBL9EDzCU41fLz3vb5ccKjJnc-KjTJrJQnUFVjgCuRCIAgnRDruzyoAKASKRYht-W_OBsQbxboupJPa-c_uVYw/s1600/20120423_120421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ShXbtdZQytTM6uUpDsk0AXrJ2yIvL5n2txK8TeXwRhlPV-C-TYENWxBL9EDzCU41fLz3vb5ccKjJnc-KjTJrJQnUFVjgCuRCIAgnRDruzyoAKASKRYht-W_OBsQbxboupJPa-c_uVYw/s200/20120423_120421.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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P.S. On our way down to Destin, FL, we had to drive through many small towns to reach our destination. There was one town in particular that tickled me deeply by the name of <a href="http://www.piddle.org/directions.htm" target="_blank">Brundidge, AL</a>. What appealed to me most was the sweet, adorable downtown area with quaint flower boxes overflowing with petunias on the top of each trash receptacle down the main drag. That attention to delightful detail is what stuck out to me the most. Simple things like that bring a smile to my face the older I get.<br />
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Ciao!<br />
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<div id="yui_3_2_0_2_133529705515954">
<span id="yui_3_2_0_2_133529705515976" style="color: #0060bf;"><img alt="Tonya" height="47" id="yui_3_2_0_2_133529705515975" src="http://media.vocalpoint.com/email/images/tonya-sig.png" style="height: 56px; width: 165px;" width="156" /></span></div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-45339205183497684082012-04-19T12:36:00.000-04:002012-04-19T12:36:20.940-04:00Who knew a rooster could be so friendly...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0deZDGRysLIBMGWUB8aDsC2jOOIAgD-UkN262o5ozYXdlhKGkvgt3OviLQExwIYIsPC_yZe07qs8iUyzJ6Y3Op4ml4aHHhDcx13wgQdF2ikygVv0r4Gw4Mr4TYYuZW8tG8aVLVkOc3FY/s1600/20120414_104237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0deZDGRysLIBMGWUB8aDsC2jOOIAgD-UkN262o5ozYXdlhKGkvgt3OviLQExwIYIsPC_yZe07qs8iUyzJ6Y3Op4ml4aHHhDcx13wgQdF2ikygVv0r4Gw4Mr4TYYuZW8tG8aVLVkOc3FY/s200/20120414_104237.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Petting the miniature horse.</td></tr>
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Last weekend, my daughters and and I enjoyed the Sheep to Shawl event at the <a href="http://atlantahistorycenter.com/" target="_blank">Atlanta History Center</a>. During a prior visit to the museum, one of the docents convinced me that it would be a great event for the family but I had no idea what to REALLY expect. I had no idea how hands-on the event would truly be. I really enjoyed myself! Makenzie took a few of the items that she made to school to show her classmates. The event is only once a year, so mark your calendars for next time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi73vYHeD4amIb00cwkNmtMzwVntyb1QKtNND4neVGfwgchw0ftkvyMSoxZHyRe27fGbZFY7rD1UvnyhL4bOFRhe4o7t0bYbuqqCLI2HDBFsw-gwc8y849Vrn3veEN-WoSJPtFdkdceXoA/s1600/20120414_103651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi73vYHeD4amIb00cwkNmtMzwVntyb1QKtNND4neVGfwgchw0ftkvyMSoxZHyRe27fGbZFY7rD1UvnyhL4bOFRhe4o7t0bYbuqqCLI2HDBFsw-gwc8y849Vrn3veEN-WoSJPtFdkdceXoA/s200/20120414_103651.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She didn't want to just pet the rooster she wanted to hold it!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Since we are members, we had the opportunity to preview the petting zoo earlier than others, which was cool. As we walked through the petting zoo, in my mind I had already guessed which animals both of my girls would be excited about independently based on their personalities. For Payton, I knew she would enjoy the miniature pony and the rooster. Makenzie is a big fan of rabbits and cows, that is exactly where she spent most of her time. Mak would love a pet rabbit but our dog, Coco Chanel, is too territorial for another pet to come into our home. After all we have had Coco for almost 9 years and I can respect that.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wool was very smelly!</td></tr>
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After enjoying the petting zoo, we moved on the main event... the sheep shearing. The whole purpose of the exhibition is to learn how about all the steps involved from cultivating the wool from the sheep and the by-products of the wool on a plantation. So we gather around the barn to watch the shearing of the wool from the sheep. I have a new respect for my wool clothing items. The process is very labor intensive. The farmer sheared the sheep then he passed out the wool to the children in the audience. At this point, we took the wool to washing and carding station where we met women dressed in clothing from the 1890's. Remainder: the wool is fresh off the back of a live sheep. Translation: this stuff is smelly! There were several basins to wash, rinse and card the wool.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkF8aMir_M8YU58Z6Tara67y-gsqu1fVLFbchM0spRcvXQvJ6SfPP3zuyvmvYH3TAesJcFEfvYGM4DU7XTWYRZF9rI-F_bxTxMntXX4EUxZ_OYVyR_TsOM5mlhFG1vkONuw4a4JP3f0uI/s1600/20120414_114219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkF8aMir_M8YU58Z6Tara67y-gsqu1fVLFbchM0spRcvXQvJ6SfPP3zuyvmvYH3TAesJcFEfvYGM4DU7XTWYRZF9rI-F_bxTxMntXX4EUxZ_OYVyR_TsOM5mlhFG1vkONuw4a4JP3f0uI/s200/20120414_114219.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton carding the wool.</td></tr>
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Carding the wool involves two large brushes that we used to soften the wool and remove any matting and twigs. Then from there the wool is spun using a spindle. We didn't actually do the spinning but the was a demonstation of how it is done. The final fibers can either be dyed to whatever color and then used by the lady of the house to create a shawl, towels or blankets.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One candle after 9 dunks in wax and water.</td></tr>
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The girls also had an opportunity to enjoy making pottery and candles. Let me talk a little about the whole candle making process.... So considering that there wasn't electricity during this time, plantation families had to make their own candles using animal fat. The docent tells the crowd before we make our own candles that the family would make all the candles that they needed for the <i>YEAR</i> in <i>ONE</i> day! That figures roughly includes 400 candles so that is just about 1 candle or so per day. Here is the punchline, to create <u><b><i>one</i></b></u> candle, the wick has to dipped in the wax and water 400 times. <b>Huh?!</b> My girls only dunked their candles in the wax and then water a total of 9 times and they were worked up because the candles was as thin as PJ's pinky finger. Thank you Edison and I won't complain about the GA Power rate hike again.clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-30927631698279714792012-03-23T12:29:00.001-04:002012-03-31T10:16:31.634-04:00What am I going to do with all these plastics eggs???That's a good question! I am going to make some wreaths!!!!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OgLTewtGNHw/T2yenjNuSkI/AAAAAAAAAgI/tz5JzsuxSOY/s1600/20120323_115524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OgLTewtGNHw/T2yenjNuSkI/AAAAAAAAAgI/tz5JzsuxSOY/s320/20120323_115524.jpg" width="320" /></a>For the first one I used the plastic eggs and the pink basket filler. I purchased a wire wreath frame and wrapped with a wide pink ribbon. Next, I glued the plastic eggs to the covered frame with my handy dandy glue gun. I didn't put the eggs on in any particular, so that I wouldn't obsess over it. I did use large eggs and miniature eggs just to give the wreath more texture. So just glued them on the frame and move on. To fill in some of the gaps between the eggs, I stuffed the plastic streamers into any crevice I could find on the wreath. Once every nook and cranny was with the stringy filler, I added a wooden decorative egg to the center of the wreath suspended from jewelry wire beaded with glass bead.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5cOjJmXOStfZritqyh0MIlepYls7UbJ26Z3uFABxVUVznSgy-jqUghivM430Zm4KIvGJbyJ4-44OaZ9jg5EBSCT_NLnnFM9vFxueulUaKZazK92PlF5Y1qGgMSCYcspCASyi1YGicVI/s1600/20120323_115659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5cOjJmXOStfZritqyh0MIlepYls7UbJ26Z3uFABxVUVznSgy-jqUghivM430Zm4KIvGJbyJ4-44OaZ9jg5EBSCT_NLnnFM9vFxueulUaKZazK92PlF5Y1qGgMSCYcspCASyi1YGicVI/s320/20120323_115659.jpg" width="320" /></a>My second wreath has a grapevine frame. I purchased a bag of adorable pastel speckled eggs that look pretty realistic. I loosely wrapped sheer green ribbon around the wreath and secured it with glue. Next I attached the eggs to the bottom of the wreath and use floral moss to fill in any gaps between the eggs. I found that adding the floral moss makes the eggs look like they are resting in a nest. Once the foundation is set, I added a few silk daisies randomly around the eggs and the moss. I added a glittery rabbit ornament to the center of the wreath suspended from jewelry wire beaded with wooden painted beads and added a handmade bow on the top. </div>
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Voila!</div>
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<br /></div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-6560430806876235562012-03-13T12:11:00.000-04:002012-03-13T12:11:53.186-04:00My good, my bad and my very ugly...This post contains the good, the bad and the very ugly about a part of my journey. Continue reading at your own risk.<br />
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Some of my darkest, most private moments that I carry are the stillbirth and miscarriages that I suffered. I have wanted to tell my story for a while but not sure how to start it or if it is even worth sharing. I have alienated a lot of great people from my life because of my personal losses. I think it primarily stems from the fact that I, just like most people, don't enjoy my weaknesses being out for public display. I am just now able to pick up the pieces and try to rebuild stronger relationships that I had with certain people over 10 years ago. I am not sure if detailing my journey through my pregnancy issues will empower other families who are dealing with similar issues or if it will give me some sort of closure, victory or grace.<br />
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So here goes... About 8 years ago, I was pregnant with my first child, Makayla. She died shortly after birth, roughly 15 minutes. Those minutes felt so surreal. She was really premature, somewhere during my 7th month. The nurse told me to hold her until she passed because there was nothing that could be done to save her. That was extremely hard on me and the end of who I was at that time. I felt like I was having an out of body experience. It was like I was watching someone else's life. I was so alone and sad. I just kept saying repeatedly, "Why? Why me?" I cut myself off from God because I felt he overlooked me and let me suffer. So in the hospital recovery room while holding my lifeless baby, I left God and the relationship that I had with him right there. Presently, I know that no matter how much something hurts, God knows best.<br />
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My obstetrician at the time was completely stumped and ran a battery of tests to find out what was wrong with me. Was it my hormone levels? Did I have some sort of autoimmune disorder? The results came back that I was completely normal but emotionally my feelings were hurt. Fast forward one year, I am pregnant again. I cautiously attended each appointment afraid of what the doctor would find... I am told that everything is fine and that the first pregnancy may have been a sad and unfortunate event. I continue to live my life and work my job all the while hoping and praying that my outcome would be a positive one this time. <br />
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I go home to visit my parents in Las Vegas. I was sitting around talking with my parents and got up to use the restroom. I start bleeding profusely and something drops in the toilet. I couldn't look in the toilet but my mom did. I was so numb that I flushed the toilet, cleaned myself up and mentally moved on. I returned to Atlanta two weeks later and I threw myself back into my work and self-improvement all without God, so I thought.<br />
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Little did I know that I was still pregnant with another baby, the remaining twin. How was I supposed to know this? My doctor only saw one fetus during my initial ultrasound. After a few months, I go to the obstetrician for my annual check up on my birthday. I am in the lovely stirrups on the examine table and she tells me that I am still pregnant. We are both in shock, I explain everything that happened over the holidays and she sends me to the hospital for a more extensive ultrasound. I was on strict bed rest with this baby, Elijah, isolated from the world and my job. Don't get to excited here though because I lost that baby as well during my 6th month. <br />
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Finally after two failed pregnancies of three babies and another round of tests and labs, I was diagnosed with an incompetent cervix. Translation: my cervix can't hold the weight of a baby after the 5th month, so my cervix spontaneously opens leading to premature labor and sometimes pregnancy loss. I had no idea that a cervix could even be incompetent! The issue with this is that you have to lose a baby first before a solution or diagnosis can be provided. The remedy for me was a stitch around the neck of my cervix called a <a href="http://pregnancy.about.com/cs/incompetentcervix/a/aaincomp.htm" target="_blank">cerclage</a>, which is an equally tricky procedure that could also lead to pregnancy loss. Talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place!!!<br />
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At this point, I am numb to life and people. I don't recall much of 2004-2007, selective amnesia, I guess. I actually don't have many pictures from that time. I realized this fact when I was working on a scrapbook recently. I had very, very few pictures from those years. So sad. Now I know you are probably wondering, when does the sun shine again, I am getting there bear with me. Every story has a great turning point.<br />
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I felt like my invitation to motherhood was somehow lost in the mail. I was so sad from grief that my analytical side took the steering wheel for this part of my journey. Also remember, God and I are still not on speaking terms or at least, I am not talking or listening to Him. I developed a hard shell that had many layers at this point, no one could get in.<br />
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I find out that I am pregnant, yet again, in the early Spring of 2006. I am not excited because I have been here before and I remember how the story ended. I tell no one but my husband for weeks. To be quite frank, I felt sorry for myself and the baby. The bright side is that I knew what needed to be done in order to increase this baby's survival rate. During my 13th week, I had the cerclage inserted. I received the green light to go home after a short weekend stay in the hospital for observation.<br />
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Needless to say, the remaining journey was not easy. I was on strict bedrest from the moment I had the cerclage done until I had it removed (week 13 until week 36), which was one month before my due date. Strict bedrest, for me, meant laying on my left side in my bed. My activity was extremely limited: I could only leave the house for appointments, I couldn't drive myself anywhere, couldn't go for a walk and couldn't take a shower longer than 7 minutes. I was taken to appointments by my, husband, my dad or my brother depending on who was available or in town. I would <em><strong>beg</strong></em> my brother to take me somewhere, anywhere even just for a few minutes just to people watch. My mom always called at just the right time to convince him otherwise! A mother's job is never done. Of course, hindsight is 20/20 and I see God everywhere along my journey when I look back now.<br />
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I experienced premature contractions during my 6 month <u>while</u> at an appointment with my perinatologist, so I was sent immediately to the hospital for observation, which turned into an extended hospital visit. I stayed put in the Ante Partum Unit for <strong>36 days</strong>, in the uncomfortable hospital bed on my left side plugged up to several monitors, gadgets and an IV in my hand. I wasn't allowed to get out of the bed <strong> <i>AT ALL</i></strong>. The things I do for love. My only connection to the outside world was one solitary tree outside of my single rectangular window. When I entered the hospital, the tree had lots of green leaves. I watched that tree change by the seasons. The leaves turned from green to golden. Finally the leaves fell from the tree and it was bare.<br />
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Broken and desperate while on bed rest in the hospital, I cut a deal with God down the hall from the same room where I left our relationship just 3 years earlier. I prayed that God would remember me as he remembered <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hannah_%28Bible%29" target="_blank">Hannah</a> in the book of Samuel. The overall jest of my prayer was that I would be a good mom and not take my journey for granted. I see the entire experience as a blessing now eventhough it was devastatingly lonely and sad. I believe it was clandestine for me to be in the hospital in the very last room at the end of the hallway isolated, so that <strong>I</strong> could reconcile with God. He had me all to himself, not distractions. One week in, I was broken. I cried and begged for the life of my child because things weren't looking good for me as well as my child at this point, according my doctor. I kept my mouth shut and heart open for the next 3.5 weeks. <br />
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After one of my crying spells and feeling sorry for myself, my dad came to visit me at the hospital. Right on time as usual. He was loaded down with books, movies, magazine and snacks. I remember telling him that this whole thing should remain a family secret because I was too embarrassed. He suggested I do the opposite and tell my story to anyone that will listen because it would definitely help someone. It took me six year to catch on to his wisdom. <br />
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At about 28 weeks, my Ob and perinatologist both agreed that I could go home, because I was considered out of immediate danger and if I did go into labor at this point, the birth would be viable. I did have a few more small visits to the hospital ranging from a few hours to 2 days but overall the next several weeks flew by. I delivered my first living and thriving child, Makenzie Simone Skye, one month early but we made it! Quickly followed by birth of Payton Michele Joy <b>exactly</b> 21 months later because I am a glutton for punishment, I'm sure. That pregnancy was just as difficult but not as tedious because we <em>(meaning my family and team of doctors)</em> followed the blueprint laid out during my pregnancy with Makenzie. I am grateful and thankful.<br />
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Eight years later, I am still healing from the initial loss of Makayla and Elijah. I have keepsakes that I look over on their birthdays and light a candle in their honor on that day. I celebrate the births of all my children, privately and publicly. Everyday I get back a piece of me that I haven't seen in a while. I am slowly rebuilding relationship that were lost. I did the inverse of what I should have done during my time of distress. I should have taken refuge in their support but I hid and ignored them instead. I can't change what happened and what I did but I definitely do apologize.<br />
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Thank you for reading and I hope this helps someone. I have told the story to a few people but never with this much detail. This exercise has been beneficial. I have always wanted to put it into words but afraid of the emotions that would follow.clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-34906284722408320422012-03-06T09:00:00.000-05:002012-03-13T11:33:20.025-04:00Dolphin Tales and Beluga Whales...I had the opportunity to visit the Georgia Aquarium with my daughters recently. We took advantage of the <a href="http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/acb/stores/1/newclubfishlink.aspx?Conv_Id=1453" target="_blank">Mommy and Me combo pass</a> that expires on March 8th. It has been about a year since I last visited the aquarium because I like to buy this particular combo pass each year when it becomes available. Click on the link above to check out what the pass includes. If there is still time before the expiration, take advantage. If not, make a note for next year and buy a pass then. <br />
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There are a few things that are different about the pass this year. The best perk outside of free parking (usually $10) is the inclusion of the Dolphin Tales show and the Deepo 4D show with the pass. I have to say that I was most impressed with the Dolphin Tales show. My youngest has been talking about it everyday since our visit (and carrying around her blue dolphin). I have to say that I definitely recommend it. I actually felt like I was at SeaWorld watching a live "legitmate" theatrical performance instead of your run of the mill, self-guided aquarium tour. My personal favorite was watching the Beluga whales swim gracefully around their habitat. My oldest, a budding scientist, was so excited (the jumping up and down kind of excitement) each time she correctly identified a fish in the tank based on what she saw on the Ocean Voyager pictorial guide. So cool... I'm raising nerds. I love it! :)<br />
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As you can see, we are still chipping away at our All Things GA plan for 2012. We were short one from our crew though, hubby had to work. :(clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-32120665968898259452012-03-04T09:00:00.000-05:002012-04-05T09:54:01.574-04:00Enough is enough!!!I am still working on my last 10 pounds post-baby and my youngest is 3 years old! (insert laughter here) Don't get me wrong, I am very happy about the 55 pounds that I was able to lose and keep off in this same time frame... but enough is enough! I am not wanting to lose this weight for vanity purposes, though buying something smaller than my current size 6 would make me shout "Hallelujah!" from the second level of any shopping mall. I am working to be within my<a href="http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/" target="_blank"> BMI (Body Mass Index)</a> and keeping certain medical conditions that plague my family tree at bay. You are probably wondering what I plan to do in order to lose these nagging pounds? Well, I am not using any newfangled pills, potions or lotions. Just simple mathematics... <i>Eat less and move more. </i><br />
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I found a calorie counting app for my phone called <a href="https://market.android.com/details?id=org.medhelp.mydiet" target="_blank">My Diet Diary</a>. I have been using it for the last 2 weeks and so far so good. This application is really keeping me honest. The cool thing about this app is that I can enter my weight, height, desired weight and the time frame in which I want to achieve this goal and I will be able to see how many calories I need to consume each day to <i>lose</i> the weight. Each day has a section where I can enter what I have eaten plus the caloric value, how much water I have consumed and how many calories I have left for the day. My caloric intake is roughly 1100 calories. This may seem extremely low but I want to reach my goal by the time I pull out my spring and summer clothes, which should be around April 1st.<br />
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The average American consumes roughly 4000 calories a day! Is that a shocker? Well actually, I am not surprised at all. It is so easy to consume 1000 calories in one meal these days. I did the calorie count for my <b>free</b> short stack from IHOP during National Pancake Day. So I ordered a short stack, which consists of 3 buttermilk pancakes and added on 2 turkey sausage links and water (drum roll, please)... that was a whopping 478 calories. Imagine what it would have been if I ordered the standard pancake breakfast that includes everything I ordered <u>plus</u> hash browns and 2 scrambled eggs plus some sort of drink. Another feature cool feature is entering how many calories I have burned while exercising or doing housework. Who knew that you could burn 131 calories while cleaning your house for 45 minutes or 100 calories by using a jump rope for 8 minutes? <br />
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I am sure that I am raining on the parade of several of my friends when I tell then how many calories are in the meal they are currently eating... :| Oh well, they will thank me later. Good friends are hard to come by so I want them be healthy too!<br />
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<b><i>Update:</i></b><br />
<i>I have lost, as of 4/4/12, 7 pounds and lost 2 inches around my waist. I notice the most difference around my "mommy" tummy, so I have decided to extend my goal from losing 10 pounds to 15 pounds. I have 8 more pounds to go!! I <u><b>will</b></u> be ready for the Bahamas in June!!!!</i>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-75594003417729001912012-03-02T08:52:00.000-05:002012-03-02T08:52:22.215-05:00All things GA or bust!Recently, we were sitting around talking about our weekend plans and I realized there are so many places that we haven't been to in Georgia considering how long we have lived here. We have been married 9 years (that is another blog post for another day) this August but we have been here longer if you include college. So we decided that we would theme our excursions as "All things GA." This essentially means we are going to use our weekends and other miscellaneous down time to enjoy everything that Georgia has to offer. We have seen majority of the "mainstream" attractions here in Atlanta but not very many attractions off the well-worn tourist path. It is actually a bit pitiful that we have not been more places that speak on the rich history of GA. I can't count the number of weekends that we have complained that we had nothing to do! I can spend a whole afternoon talking about other states and countries that I want to visit but I haven't even played in my own backyard yet. What a shame?<br />
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So in order to get prepared I had to acquire a map (of course!) that included all historical landmarks and State Park and I printed a list of museums and other attractions. We made this pledge on New Year's Day and so far we have visited the <a href="http://www.cartercenter.org/index.html" target="_blank">Jimmy Carter Presidential Museum</a>, <a href="http://www.callawaygardens.com/" target="_blank">Callaway Gardens</a>, <a href="http://www.atlantahistorycenter.com/" target="_blank">Atlanta History Museum</a> during to the last 3 weekends. Let me just say, I have been <b>pleasantly</b> surprised (to say the least) at each place that we visited. Next on our list will be<a href="http://www.gastateparks.org/parks/" target="_blank"> Sweetwater Creek, Panola Mountain, Etowah Indian Mounds, Red Top Mountain, Amicalola Falls</a> and <a href="http://www.tellusmuseum.com/" target="_blank">Tellus Museum</a>. That list should keep us busy for the next 6 weeks. I need weather contingency plan for the outdoor activities just in case we get rain, which is not a surprise here in Georgia.clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-31450194299900869852012-02-15T12:31:00.000-05:002012-03-18T20:49:09.044-04:00Jimmy Carter Presidential MuseumSo this past weekend, I wanted to go somewhere new. We researched some ideas and decided to go to the <a href="http://www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov/" target="_blank">Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum</a>. I have lived in Atlanta since 1997 and I have never been to the Jimmy Carter Museum. I have really been missing out on a jewel because the place is beautiful. The design and layout are impeccable. There are picnic benches outside of the building surrounding a small lake and wonderful gardens. I plan to experience that fully once the weather warms up. <br />
First off, children 12 and under are free and adults are $8. After paying a nominal admission price, you are encouraged to enjoy a short 15-minute documentary covering the life of former President Jimmy Carter, which was very insightful. Upon leaving the auditorium, we moved into the museum portion that charted Jimmy Carter's life chronologically from birth, to his time in the Navy and all the way to the White House and beyond. The best part of the whole exhibit, outside of the breath-taking rotunda, was the Oval Office replica. As an added perk to Carter's biographical exhibit, we had an opportunity to enjoy a small temporary exhibit on the research and life of Dr. George Washington Carver. This was a real treat for Makenzie because she just learned about him at school. <br />
With all that being said, I highly recommend the visiting the museum, it definitely exceeded my expectations and I am a little upset that I hadn't visited sooner. So, what are you waiting for? Go find out for yourself...clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-69141378754748314202012-02-13T16:57:00.000-05:002012-02-13T22:38:56.166-05:00My Own Personal Jam SessionI have had an addiction to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches since I was a small child. Of course, this means that I go through a lot of peanut butter and jelly. Currently, my adult palate prefers natural peanut butter and strawberry jam. At this moment, we are out of jam and being the resourceful yet adventurous person that I am, I decided to make my own. :) I'm sure you knew that was coming. <br />
Surprisingly from start to finish (minus the time to allow the jam to set), it took me about 30 minutes to make 4 jars of strawberry jam. <br />
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Here is how I did it:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ingredients (mostly, anyway)</td></tr>
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2 lbs of smashed strawberries <br />
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1/4 cup of lemon juice</div>
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3 cups of sugar</div>
1/2 pkg of pectin <br />
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4 glass jars with self sealing lids</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wash jars, tops and lids. <br />
Then place in a pot of hot water until ready for filling.</td></tr>
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Clean, hull and cut your strawberries down into chunks. Using a potato masher, smash the berries to your desired consistency. Since I like texture, I left my a little on the chunky side. I let Makenzie mash the berries, so that I could move on to the next steps. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Combine the first 2 ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.</td></tr>
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Add the pectin and continue to stir. Then add the sugar.</div>
Let the mixture come to a hard boil for 1 minute. <br />
At this point, remove the the saucepan from the heat and skim any froth off the top. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Fill the jars with jam using a ladle, it will be a little loose at the point, no worries. Wipe the rim and sides of the jar before centering the top over the jar. Screw on each lid and return the jars to the pot of hot water to seal the jars. Be sure that the entire jar is underwater. Let the jars process for 10 minutes, covered. After the processing time, remove the lid, cut off the fire and let the jars stand for 5 minutes. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"> Finally remove the jars from the pot and place on top of a towel to set for 12-24 hours.</td></tr>
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Making jam was very simple and it didn't require much time. Heaven only knows what is in the stuff on the shelves at the store with artificial flavoring and a "real fruit" taste. I don't know about you, but I want to know what I am eating these days. Also, it is a great activity to do with kids. Kids are more likely going to try something if they helped with making it. <br />
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I plan to make some buttermilk biscuits to sample my creation. Enjoy!<br />
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</div>clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-72453323627423592932012-02-10T09:00:00.000-05:002012-02-10T09:00:10.373-05:00Book Review - Water for ElephantsI wanted to take time to review <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/mn/search/?_encoding=UTF8&tag=tonystrea-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=water%20for%20elephants&url=search-alias%3Daps">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=tonystrea-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />" target="_blank">Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen</a> that I recently finished and tell you what I liked about it. Now that I think about it, this review is perfect timing because it is circus season in Atlanta. The book is basically about a young man who literally stumbles into joining a circus after experiencing a sudden personal loss. He uses everything he has learned or experienced in his life up to the major turning point to his advantage in order to survive. The book really made me focus on what is important in life and the finality of the decisions that we make. I try my best not to say, "If I could go back in time, I would change...", I know that if one thing is changed, everything is changed. Currently, I like my life probably because the laundry is done and put away :). <br />
As I read the prologue of the book, I knew I was going to be hooked until the last page. The characters were so colorful and real, I felt like I was in the book watching from afar. Now I can watch the movie and see if it lives up to the richness of the book. The resounding theme of the book to me,of course, is to live fully in the moment and be present, so that when I look back on my life at my sunset, I will have vivid memories of my life's journey. My final take-away from the book is to try new things no matter how old I am or whatever plans I have made because I never know where it will take me. The adventure may not include joining the circus but it might be just as cool.clevadivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02463342524938651587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7692691298955908077.post-53463777275486662202012-02-09T16:00:00.001-05:002012-03-13T11:41:07.082-04:00What I love about the Fernbank Museum... <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Since my membership will be up for renewal soon, I thought that I would take the time to talk about what I love about the <a href="http://www.fernbankmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Fernbank Museum of Natural History</a> to be sure that I renew it ;). First off, the membership is really worth the price of <a href="http://www.fernbankmuseum.org/become-a-member/" target="_blank">$95</a>. (For the record the membership was previously $89) That price includes 12 months of admission for 2 adults and up to 4 children (under 18) to museum exhibits, invitations to members-only gatherings and discounts on IMAX movies. I could just stop there and say, "Nuff said!" but I will continue because I have more to say. My girls really enjoy playing in the NatureQuest children's interactive play area. The coolest part of NatureQuest, for me, is the life-size treehouse. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPdR2enMI3yAlAuNSwbCL_iN0Em5SbzJUJvk3NbG8iFRAibfTHNGLcSoqZSy_3xu69S38MS5mlMCLG4dn5bsoGPwNQorhsL4S70ItZvPOPRIXOAIju6Dpx9R2i2poyCg4FWmKQ_hQB0ww/s1600/20120312_142034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPdR2enMI3yAlAuNSwbCL_iN0Em5SbzJUJvk3NbG8iFRAibfTHNGLcSoqZSy_3xu69S38MS5mlMCLG4dn5bsoGPwNQorhsL4S70ItZvPOPRIXOAIju6Dpx9R2i2poyCg4FWmKQ_hQB0ww/s200/20120312_142034.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Identifying inhabitants of a cavern in NatureQuest.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creating a huge bubble in a bin of soapy solution.<br />
Sounds like Physics to me!</td></tr>
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Another positive is the themed Princess and Pirates weekends, where children can arrive in their favorite princess or pirate costume, make a craft, meet "real" pirates and princesses and participate in a interactive story time. The museum calendar is filled with lots of great activities outside of the giant dinosaur in the rotunda.</div>
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The membership also includes reciprocal gratis admission to <a href="http://www.astc.org/passport" target="_blank">partnering museums</a> 90 miles as the "crow flies" from the home museum, as well as admission into the Fernbank Planetarium programs. All in all the value of the membership works for us because we have somewhere to go on lazy weekends, rainy days or chilly afternoons all for free, plus my girls might learn a thing or two. Just to be sure that I get extreme value out of the membership, we go at a minimum of once a month. The membership pays for itself in 2 visits for the Braswell Crew and its tax-deductible... What more could a parent ask for?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV749cqNgh3IHNMUljSWdUl9j2ymqfuPxbMvfVB1xncMtaAkSBNngBsTJQiyy3Hrs8tQqmlv7k0n1b92VEToVRoduP7RafXkNkNyBvSj8diKwaCj1tsGKYQ-3wS3auRzPS4drm_CJEsZM/s1600/20120312_131715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV749cqNgh3IHNMUljSWdUl9j2ymqfuPxbMvfVB1xncMtaAkSBNngBsTJQiyy3Hrs8tQqmlv7k0n1b92VEToVRoduP7RafXkNkNyBvSj8diKwaCj1tsGKYQ-3wS3auRzPS4drm_CJEsZM/s200/20120312_131715.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls are wearing turtle shells in the <br />
Wildlife Preservation exhibit.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxmXWAHnPx_TsKhLk-tIU7jQeR3cQgT0Io6amedKpgBU0FTCGoeCfOZoVMRIvlqh5CAQ5UVeelHDqw2Ni-N2ztxej6fG-aytxPC8XrYm7ozFVjkgn19OzH8NhFIGB7e69C50CeDwJ0i8/s1600/20120312_144427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxmXWAHnPx_TsKhLk-tIU7jQeR3cQgT0Io6amedKpgBU0FTCGoeCfOZoVMRIvlqh5CAQ5UVeelHDqw2Ni-N2ztxej6fG-aytxPC8XrYm7ozFVjkgn19OzH8NhFIGB7e69C50CeDwJ0i8/s200/20120312_144427.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton is creating shadows <br />
with different light sources.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildlife Preservation Exhibit </td></tr>
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