tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36631499567013174812024-03-14T00:37:27.047-04:00A Real PerspectiveA blog about our everyday lives with our 4 little girls and the trials and tribulations of being a stay at home mother while trying to maintain some kind of sanity in this ever changing, fast paced world that we call real life.Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-60493625694260664472015-09-23T21:48:00.002-04:002015-09-23T21:48:33.685-04:00How Do I Love Me for Me?Not really sure what to call this post. Just wanted to vent or maybe just say what I've been thinking about in my head because I'm sure that I can't be the only woman out there that feels this way.<br />
I am the mother of 4 little girls. Little girls that I adore and have made my life better and fuller than I ever imagined possible. I have an absolutely AMAZING husband who adores me and spoils me beyond my dreams. I have been fortunate enough to have been a stay at home mom for the last 9 years. All in all, I have a pretty blessed life and i thank God for all that He has given to me and to us!<br />
About a year after the birth of my youngest daughter I decided I was tired of being fat. And I was. I had 3 kids within 3 years, took off a few years and had a 4th. It took a toll on my body and on my health. Yes, I was running around chasing kids all the time but I wasn't eating well at all! So, I decided that it was time to change that and do something about it. I started by changing my eating choices. I began logging all of my food by using an app and I counted every calorie that I consumed. Then I decided that I needed to add exercise in to the mix. I started with P90X...yep, talk about jumping in with both feet! But, after a few weeks I could see changes and I felt better. Eventually, I lost a total of 35 pounds and felt great! I had more energy and felt healthier and I was eating better than ever before in my life. I kept exercising 5 to 6 times a week and kept maintaining my weight loss. I would indulge now and again. I wasn't nearly as strict with my food as I was when I initially started the process. I managed to keep it all off until about a year ago when my family and I went on vacation and from that point on I had a battle with those stubborn last 3 or 4 pounds to lose. Not terrible and I was living with it. Then in May of this year I hurt my back and was unable to do much of anything for about 2 months. 2 months!?! I went from exercising 5 to 6 times a week to NOTHING. I could barely walk let alone think about burpees, squats, running or anything else! As those 2 months past, I could see and feel my body changing. I was losing muscle that I had worked so hard to gain. Once I got the ok to workout again, it took me a while but eventually I started to get back at it. Over the summer (most of which I couldn't do anything because of the back pain) I let myself go a little bit. I still tried to be mindful of what I ate but I was pretty much eating what I wanted...and watching my muscle disappear. UGH. I went on vacation with my husband, determined to have a good time and let loose and then get back on to the exercise wagon and start eating better once we got home. And we had a GREAT vacation! But I put on a few pounds (which I had expected) Now I'm back at the exercise and back at watching what I eat, which is great. But my big problem is this...I want to lose the weight and get my body back to what it was but I don't want to miss out on life with my family and friends. I enjoy taking my girls for ice cream and I don't want to be the mom that says, "you can have it but none for me". I also really enjoy going out to eat with my husband and friends. I don't want to be the person that says no to a night out because I don't have enough calories left for the day. I guess what I'm saying is, I don't want life to pass me by without me experiencing it. But then why, WHY, when I look in the mirror, am I never happy with what I see? I always feel fat. I see my belly and cannot help but think to myself, "You have got to do something about that!" Why is it that I am never good enough for me? My husband has no complaints about how I look. He never did. He loves me for me. My girls don't complain about how I look. They love me regardless of how much I weigh. Why is it that I can't seem to love me for me? Why is it that when the scale goes up a pound or two, my husband can tell, without me even telling him, because of the mood I'm in that morning.Why am I never satisfied with the shape of my body? I'm not 18, not a supermodel and I never will be. I'm 39 with a husband and 4 girls. This body gave life to 4 girls. Why can't that be reason enough for me to love the way I look? I've read so many empowering articles about women who love their bodies no matter how they look and when I'm done reading I don't feel empowered. I think, "Wouldn't it be great to have that kind of self-confidence and self-acceptance and love for myself?" Why can't I get there? How do I get there?Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-25217184726235136522013-01-05T20:10:00.002-05:002013-01-05T20:10:38.418-05:00Emma knocked out a tooth...but not her tooth.So, I was sitting in the living room with all of my girls and my sister tonight when Cecilia showed Angelina her loose tooth. It was loose but not ready to come out yet. Cecilia asked Angelina is she had a string (to tie around her tooth and pull it out) but Angelina told her it wasn't that loose yet and laughed it off. Cecilia and Emma were sitting facing each other and looking at the loose tooth and talking. I was otherwise occupied watching Helena and trying to coax her to put on her jammies when all of a sudden I heard a <b><u><i>CRACK</i></u></b>. I looked up to see Cecilia's stunned face and then she started to laugh as she explained that Emma just punched her in the tooth. Now, I am pretty sure this was all Cecilia's idea, as she already wanted to put a string around it to pull it out, and that Emma very politely did as her sister requested. Cecilia showed us her tooth, through her laughter, and we all realized that it was indeed bleeding and hanging on by a thread. Seeing as how I don't do well with blood, Angelina took her and eventually pulled out the tooth. At this point, Emma was hysterically crying (she was not in trouble and I was certainly not mad at her) and Cecilia was overjoyed because the Tooth Fairy gets to come tonight.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Never a boring night at the Shafnisky house!</div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-4398951368223022632012-12-17T21:31:00.000-05:002012-12-17T21:31:28.395-05:00Pain...Last week I was thinking that I would write a post about kids and dealing with pain. We have had our share of pain,both emotional and physical, around here lately (certainly nothing major but some physical ailments, a scheduled ear tube procedure and some friend trouble). Nothing major, but nonetheless, pain. I was thinking that I would write about how hard it is to see your child in pain, physical or emotional. How, as a parent, all you want to do is scoop them up, hold them and deploy your magical, protective force-field that can protect them from everything, all while having Mommy or Daddy holding them tightly in their arms. I know that's what I want to do when I see my girls sick or hurting over a friend who turned out to be not such a good friend. All things we can get through pretty easily but I still don't like to see my girls in pain.<br />
<br />
Then Friday came.<br />
<br />
I was running crazy holiday errands all day with Helena in tow. She was great all day and we accomplished A LOT. I was feeling really good about things. So happy that we were able to accomplish so many things in one day. We headed right to school after we finished and parked in the parent pick up line to wait for our other girls.<br />
<br />
That was when things changed.<br />
<br />
I put on a movie for Helena and took out my phone and opened my Facebook app. As I was scrolling through everyone's posts I was confused by the things I was seeing. I had left the house at 9:00 AM and had not been back since. I knew something had happened but I wasn't sure what so I opened my ABC News app and there it was.<br />
<br />
In black and white.<br />
<br />
As I started to read, the tears welled up in my eyes and eventually just poured down my cheeks. As I sat there reading about those poor babies, teachers, and staff I absolutely broke down and cried and cried. It wasn't a pretty cry or a slight cry. It was a full-on, ugly, gut wrenching, soul depleting cry. I pulled it together enough to get my girls, even though they knew something was wrong with Mommy, and I took them for ice cream.<br />
<br />
Because ice cream helps make everything better.<br />
<br />
Or at least we pretend it does.<br />
<br />
After ice cream we came home and just were together. The weekend continued on, and we decided to keep the girls in the dark because we just couldn't figure out if we should tell them anything or not. We decided not to talk to them about it. I wanted to get out that force-field and keep them away from this for as long as possible. Their weekend was just like any other weekend, filled with activities and normalcy. My weekend was a bit different.<br />
<br />
I cried.<br />
<br />
A lot.<br />
<br />
And I kept crying.<br />
<br />
Everytime I thought about what happened or heard about it or read about it.<br />
<br />
I cried.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure why this has been hitting me so hard exactly. If it is because I was a teacher or if it is because those babies were the same age as my babies are. Just can't seem to figure it out. But I know that it has affected me.<br />
<br />
A lot!<br />
<br />
I have talked to my husband, friends, my mom and my sister and I still cannot wrap my head around it.<br />
<br />
How does this happen?<br />
<br />
Who hurts babies like that?<br />
<br />
Why???<br />
<br />
My husband reminded me that the Catholic, Christian thing to do is to forgive and that is the way to begin the healing. I wish I could but I don't know how to get there. I don't even know if it is my place to forgive. I just know that I am angry, hurt and incredibly sad. And I'm not sure how to change that.<br />
<br />
I know that as I got my girls ready for school this morning, I had a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach (as I am sure most parents felt). We all piled in to the car and headed for school. I know this school and I know these teachers. I went to school there as a child and I taught there as an adult. I know that safety is a priority and that the students are always put first. I never doubt that. but I bet those parents in Newtown felt the same way and never thought that anything would happen at their school. As I pulled away, the tears welled up in my eyes. Usually, watching my girls walk in to school together is one of the cutest and best parts of my day. Today, that is not how I was feeling.<br />
<br />
Today I was sad.<br />
<br />
Really sad.<br />
<br />
I said a silent prayer for my girls, all of the students and teachers here as well as all of those in Newtown.<br />
<br />
If I am feeling this way, I cannot imagine how the parents that lost a child are feeling right now. I hope and pray that those parents, teachers, staff and students can begin to find some peace and begin the healing process.<br />
<br />
<br />Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-52488708358254555092012-12-10T22:21:00.002-05:002012-12-10T22:21:54.351-05:00Work, work, workAs if life in our house isn't crazy enough, I have recently undertaken a new task each week.<br />
<br />
I have been a stay at home Mom since the birth of our second daughter, almost 7 years ago. I love it! I love every precious little second that I get to spend with my girlies. I am incredibly thankful that my husband works as hard as he does so that I am able to be at every school function, every parent/teacher conference, every play date...every everything! It has been a dream. But life has a way of getting really expensive with a family of 6, So,about a year or so ago I started doing some work for Tommy at night after the kids were in bed. I would work from about 8 until I was done, some nights that was 9 and some nights it was 11:30 but it was all good. Well, Tommy has been working and working and growing his business and has decided he needs some help in the office. So, I am now working from home at night, not every night maybe only 2-3 times a week, AND I am helping in the office 2 days a week part time. I drop the girls off at school, the baby at my Mom and Dad's house and off to work I go. I work until I have to leave to pick the kids up from school and then all of the afternoon activities begin. For those two days, it is nonstop motion, nonstop going and nonstop craziness. Which leads me to my point.<br />
Mommies...we ALL work extremely hard at what we do. It is, without a doubt, the most rewarding but most difficult job in the world. There are so many days that I feel like I do not have a clue what I am doing with my poor girls and that they will be facing a lifetime of therapy because of me. And then there are days where I finally begin to feel like I have it all under control...which is usually followed by one of those aforementioned days of self-doubt. But everyday, I get up again and start all over knowing that I really am doing the very best that I can be doing for them. But to all of the Mommies that work from home or outside of the home (and by work I mean work at something other than raising our children) I am in complete awe of you. I have no idea how you do it! I am run ragged by the end of the day and feel like I just ran a marathon. And forget about dinner. There is no way I could possibly cook on those days. Not necessarily only because there is legitimately <i>NO TIME</i> to do anything between picking up from school, doing homework and running out the door for our next activity but because I couldn't possibly muster the energy or desire to actually be responsible for making them something to eat that is actually good for them. <br />
It has to get easier, right?<br />
I mean, I'm sure eventually I will get the hang of this and I will get us in to some kind of routine or system of some kind and maybe, just maybe, I will dust off my pots and pans and cook for my family again...something other than hot dogs, pizza or macaroni and cheese.Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-67042146913942067782012-12-04T16:07:00.000-05:002012-12-04T16:07:14.904-05:00Birchbox - November<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So, I received my November Birchbox and unfortunately, I have to say that I was less than impressed. This makes me kind of sad because I always look forward to getting the Birchbox and seeing what great stuff it holds for me! This month was lackluster to say the least (in my very humble opinion). Oh well, maybe the December box will be better!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is what it contained...</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XChJFodbpd8/UL5idnEiABI/AAAAAAAAAyE/GwfGEprv64E/s1600/IMG_2162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XChJFodbpd8/UL5idnEiABI/AAAAAAAAAyE/GwfGEprv64E/s400/IMG_2162.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> As you can probably see, this is a cupcake bath bomb. I haven't used it yet but I can tell you that it was crumbled in the box and left a dusting on everything else in there. Maybe, sometime in the future, I might get to enjoy some quiet time and I will give this a try ; )</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4Xqz1oJC6Q/UL5ih3SOe9I/AAAAAAAAAyM/zBi2e4kT5mw/s1600/IMG_2164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j4Xqz1oJC6Q/UL5ih3SOe9I/AAAAAAAAAyM/zBi2e4kT5mw/s640/IMG_2164.JPG" width="425" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I tried this a few times on both freshly washed and dried hair and on 1 day dirty hair. I read and followed the directions on the can but I didn't really notice any difference. Hmph. </span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7e8Xs5n5YGs/UL5imC9gZuI/AAAAAAAAAyU/7EnACcfVHqE/s1600/IMG_2166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7e8Xs5n5YGs/UL5imC9gZuI/AAAAAAAAAyU/7EnACcfVHqE/s640/IMG_2166.JPG" width="426" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">If you have read my blog before, then you probably know how I feel about mascara. I don't think I could really live without the stuff. It is my make-up essential!!!! I was super excited to find a full size new mascara in the box...but disappointed once I used it. My very first thought when I was applying it was that it was VERY dry! It took many, many coats of this mascara to look like I had anything on at all. Once I put on a few dozen coats of it, it looked nice but I need something with a quick and easy application.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dX-29xkplY0/UL5iqPYSrHI/AAAAAAAAAyc/6YnOyTdaFb8/s1600/IMG_2167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dX-29xkplY0/UL5iqPYSrHI/AAAAAAAAAyc/6YnOyTdaFb8/s640/IMG_2167.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I did really like this perfume sample. It was fresh and light and was a nice change to what I usually wear. Even Tommy liked it!</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bbap_sNH3Io/UL5iuvltlmI/AAAAAAAAAyk/1FzjtxMP4ug/s1600/IMG_2168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bbap_sNH3Io/UL5iuvltlmI/AAAAAAAAAyk/1FzjtxMP4ug/s640/IMG_2168.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This was also included but I don't usually mess with a good thing...chocolate is a good thing so there is really no need in my eyes to add anything to it. It is pretty much delicious enough on its own (in the interest of full disclosure I do enjoy peanut M&Ms as well as a Hershey bar with almonds and chocolate and peanut butter...but who can resist chocolate and peanut butter?) Anyway, the popping and exploding was what ultimately turned me off of this. I didn't even try it but I might see if I can find someone brave enough to give it a shot.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-42rpIdmB0LU/UL5iypf5JsI/AAAAAAAAAyw/_ZkW0vRR4XQ/s1600/IMG_2170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-42rpIdmB0LU/UL5iypf5JsI/AAAAAAAAAyw/_ZkW0vRR4XQ/s640/IMG_2170.JPG" width="426" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This little pouch was in th box as well and you are supposed to use it to give someone else a gift (since it was November and the theme was about giving) I will be saving this little number for Christmas! Kind of makes you wish your name was on my Christmas list, doesn't it??? hee hee hee</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QGrZLbUYEvs/UL5i4NfZVdI/AAAAAAAAAy4/9dA3vSAjb5c/s1600/IMG_2171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QGrZLbUYEvs/UL5i4NfZVdI/AAAAAAAAAy4/9dA3vSAjb5c/s640/IMG_2171.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for reading!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Talk soon,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">-Jess</span></div>
<br />Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-82204770485895258462012-11-26T21:07:00.000-05:002012-11-26T21:07:35.596-05:00Fantasyland Preview Part 2!<div style="text-align: center;">
When we went for our Fantasyland preview, we were lucky enough to be able to see both The Beauty and The Beast section AND The Little Mermaid section.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They were both amazing!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Little Mermaid section was surrounded by water and you really felt like you were entering Ariel's world!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As you enter the line for the ride, you are taken to a world by the sea. It is absolutely breathtakingly beautiful!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLZebTD_N0o/ULQcPwJmaiI/AAAAAAAAArA/3mpZoG73Hjw/s1600/IMG_1763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLZebTD_N0o/ULQcPwJmaiI/AAAAAAAAArA/3mpZoG73Hjw/s640/IMG_1763.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ihImJ3uSjy4/ULQcQ3mbwiI/AAAAAAAAArI/h12YNbbVD4A/s1600/IMG_1764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ihImJ3uSjy4/ULQcQ3mbwiI/AAAAAAAAArI/h12YNbbVD4A/s640/IMG_1764.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The attention to detail is amazing!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Np9I31cTo/ULQcRz_t_1I/AAAAAAAAArQ/1tQPf7UAUUU/s1600/IMG_1765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Np9I31cTo/ULQcRz_t_1I/AAAAAAAAArQ/1tQPf7UAUUU/s640/IMG_1765.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A little blurry...sorry about that!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hFreLPvdKBs/ULQcSv9MQ6I/AAAAAAAAArY/-b-b7SOumvU/s1600/IMG_1766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hFreLPvdKBs/ULQcSv9MQ6I/AAAAAAAAArY/-b-b7SOumvU/s640/IMG_1766.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5cSmIXLZOtU/ULQcTrDIy1I/AAAAAAAAArg/tpGmAs8UC_c/s1600/IMG_1767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5cSmIXLZOtU/ULQcTrDIy1I/AAAAAAAAArg/tpGmAs8UC_c/s640/IMG_1767.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Dkw_D2WfFs/ULQcUtHA2WI/AAAAAAAAAro/oNfky8EdnhA/s1600/IMG_1768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Dkw_D2WfFs/ULQcUtHA2WI/AAAAAAAAAro/oNfky8EdnhA/s640/IMG_1768.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZUkSIO7Q3I/ULQcV-bmbvI/AAAAAAAAArw/DxGdLVnGGlc/s1600/IMG_1769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZUkSIO7Q3I/ULQcV-bmbvI/AAAAAAAAArw/DxGdLVnGGlc/s640/IMG_1769.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then you enter your the ride and it takes you through the story of The Little Mermaid. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yf1s1HWfamA/ULQcWleLPmI/AAAAAAAAAr4/MDqdiAKMXp8/s1600/IMG_1772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yf1s1HWfamA/ULQcWleLPmI/AAAAAAAAAr4/MDqdiAKMXp8/s640/IMG_1772.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjaN1AphGFA/ULQcXfz7eeI/AAAAAAAAAsA/Bei1YvtmexQ/s1600/IMG_1773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjaN1AphGFA/ULQcXfz7eeI/AAAAAAAAAsA/Bei1YvtmexQ/s640/IMG_1773.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bm-pbACYIlg/ULQcZKKOG8I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/1HPY7TdB54w/s1600/IMG_1775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bm-pbACYIlg/ULQcZKKOG8I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/1HPY7TdB54w/s640/IMG_1775.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-28lypLAi7Tc/ULQcaP7KUsI/AAAAAAAAAsY/zFKhxGYaw-k/s1600/IMG_1777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-28lypLAi7Tc/ULQcaP7KUsI/AAAAAAAAAsY/zFKhxGYaw-k/s640/IMG_1777.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkwhbLw5YdM/ULQcbOidTVI/AAAAAAAAAsg/NhDdT8WZR_o/s1600/IMG_1778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkwhbLw5YdM/ULQcbOidTVI/AAAAAAAAAsg/NhDdT8WZR_o/s640/IMG_1778.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-piMs3TSUiTI/ULQcbs0RedI/AAAAAAAAAso/vkiqDixV0O4/s1600/IMG_1779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-piMs3TSUiTI/ULQcbs0RedI/AAAAAAAAAso/vkiqDixV0O4/s640/IMG_1779.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75MRQKO7evc/ULQcckjk7oI/AAAAAAAAAsw/ia0-8F7DcuI/s1600/IMG_1781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75MRQKO7evc/ULQcckjk7oI/AAAAAAAAAsw/ia0-8F7DcuI/s640/IMG_1781.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFE0HG2S0ZE/ULQcdRWtAAI/AAAAAAAAAs4/2ZDBVFBcXS8/s1600/IMG_1782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFE0HG2S0ZE/ULQcdRWtAAI/AAAAAAAAAs4/2ZDBVFBcXS8/s640/IMG_1782.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GKmd3qwYyss/ULQceKmhluI/AAAAAAAAAtA/NenTQidfGk0/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GKmd3qwYyss/ULQceKmhluI/AAAAAAAAAtA/NenTQidfGk0/s640/IMG_1783.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i3vnqYc6CzQ/ULQcfNxP62I/AAAAAAAAAtI/uIxVcWjBnC8/s1600/IMG_1784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i3vnqYc6CzQ/ULQcfNxP62I/AAAAAAAAAtI/uIxVcWjBnC8/s640/IMG_1784.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qxxiltRWPlI/ULQcgABxjKI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/hjqK0snzrPQ/s1600/IMG_1785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qxxiltRWPlI/ULQcgABxjKI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/hjqK0snzrPQ/s640/IMG_1785.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-elJ0RqsWiak/ULQcguwdHeI/AAAAAAAAAtY/mlURhiA7Mek/s1600/IMG_1786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-elJ0RqsWiak/ULQcguwdHeI/AAAAAAAAAtY/mlURhiA7Mek/s640/IMG_1786.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zVfiHAbXoAc/ULQchCJ5A5I/AAAAAAAAAtg/I4p20og_0Z4/s1600/IMG_1787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zVfiHAbXoAc/ULQchCJ5A5I/AAAAAAAAAtg/I4p20og_0Z4/s640/IMG_1787.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d2tM9POEOeg/ULQcifqnQGI/AAAAAAAAAto/vqypQNjDP5M/s1600/IMG_1789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d2tM9POEOeg/ULQcifqnQGI/AAAAAAAAAto/vqypQNjDP5M/s640/IMG_1789.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MscoyJ9xHlc/ULQcjIeuy4I/AAAAAAAAAtw/9MsZ3N858G0/s1600/IMG_1790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MscoyJ9xHlc/ULQcjIeuy4I/AAAAAAAAAtw/9MsZ3N858G0/s640/IMG_1790.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yboq1iYyZMo/ULQcj2Qs7DI/AAAAAAAAAt4/RTXRjQt8FOQ/s1600/IMG_1791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yboq1iYyZMo/ULQcj2Qs7DI/AAAAAAAAAt4/RTXRjQt8FOQ/s640/IMG_1791.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9VKeAJHxeRw/ULQckuijEMI/AAAAAAAAAuE/LzQB2Lazl4M/s1600/IMG_1792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9VKeAJHxeRw/ULQckuijEMI/AAAAAAAAAuE/LzQB2Lazl4M/s640/IMG_1792.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
After the ride was over we moved along to spend a few minutes with Ariel herself!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N3-dbMMO0eU/ULQclw9kcbI/AAAAAAAAAuM/FaJfz98B8VE/s1600/IMG_1793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N3-dbMMO0eU/ULQclw9kcbI/AAAAAAAAAuM/FaJfz98B8VE/s640/IMG_1793.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ds1UHzZAgIc/ULQcnrORirI/AAAAAAAAAuU/CKUgJg6fhs0/s1600/IMG_1794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ds1UHzZAgIc/ULQcnrORirI/AAAAAAAAAuU/CKUgJg6fhs0/s640/IMG_1794.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQy2-1-_CPI/ULQconpfT1I/AAAAAAAAAuc/jhksc6_6UxM/s1600/IMG_1795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQy2-1-_CPI/ULQconpfT1I/AAAAAAAAAuc/jhksc6_6UxM/s640/IMG_1795.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
She was beautiful and took a few minutes to chat with our ladies, who were completely entranced!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2X79ShPsTTc/ULQcpoWe89I/AAAAAAAAAuk/YQlQL_4by6U/s1600/IMG_1796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2X79ShPsTTc/ULQcpoWe89I/AAAAAAAAAuk/YQlQL_4by6U/s640/IMG_1796.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can't wait to be a part of her world again next year!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-3365645164220040632012-11-26T08:00:00.000-05:002012-11-26T11:47:06.235-05:00Fantasyland Preview!<div style="text-align: center;">
When we took our annual trip to Disney World in the beginning of November, we were lucky enough to get to take a sneak peak at the new Fantasyland expansion which is set to officially open December 6th.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We started out preview with the new Beauty and the Beast experience.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It. Was. Awesome.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That is pretty much all I can say about it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Especially if you have a little one who really loves Belle!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add this to your list of things you must do!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a picture of the Beast's castle. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XR6N6szQXq4/ULLItz-aAdI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/QIM3wjm8vNc/s1600/IMG_1633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XR6N6szQXq4/ULLItz-aAdI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/QIM3wjm8vNc/s640/IMG_1633.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c_O5MyflBsk/ULLIxiJa_zI/AAAAAAAAAng/caExYBU58zg/s1600/IMG_1635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c_O5MyflBsk/ULLIxiJa_zI/AAAAAAAAAng/caExYBU58zg/s640/IMG_1635.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Belle and Maurice's cottage. So adorable!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F7K_riiIbUg/ULLIzL_EZYI/AAAAAAAAAno/-_VwnOKX9HQ/s1600/IMG_1638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F7K_riiIbUg/ULLIzL_EZYI/AAAAAAAAAno/-_VwnOKX9HQ/s640/IMG_1638.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fQPcc60Ip0w/ULLI02_fhRI/AAAAAAAAAnw/p8tkL4t9uq8/s1600/IMG_1640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fQPcc60Ip0w/ULLI02_fhRI/AAAAAAAAAnw/p8tkL4t9uq8/s640/IMG_1640.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nEkldu7wO74/ULLI2ChpeoI/AAAAAAAAAn4/2Rtny9iu2bo/s1600/IMG_1648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nEkldu7wO74/ULLI2ChpeoI/AAAAAAAAAn4/2Rtny9iu2bo/s640/IMG_1648.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The details were amazing!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1u3qCEZMKvs/ULLI3Lh0IlI/AAAAAAAAAoA/RLUtmMwSYHY/s1600/IMG_1649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1u3qCEZMKvs/ULLI3Lh0IlI/AAAAAAAAAoA/RLUtmMwSYHY/s640/IMG_1649.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our ladies loved the well. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5axD5Cofns/ULLI5Hbt2nI/AAAAAAAAAoI/zOlseGKlaqQ/s1600/IMG_1651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5axD5Cofns/ULLI5Hbt2nI/AAAAAAAAAoI/zOlseGKlaqQ/s640/IMG_1651.JPG" width="480" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is exactly how you think it would look! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTLHVLNL014/ULLI6Tha_dI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/Pi9R-_S6-4k/s1600/IMG_1660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTLHVLNL014/ULLI6Tha_dI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/Pi9R-_S6-4k/s640/IMG_1660.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A portrait inside the house.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHV62m6a7YE/ULLI76NcL9I/AAAAAAAAAoY/LKwnVAkZB8c/s1600/IMG_1662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHV62m6a7YE/ULLI76NcL9I/AAAAAAAAAoY/LKwnVAkZB8c/s640/IMG_1662.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aoxHkwsObCU/ULLI8TIByPI/AAAAAAAAAog/YKHhUj60ER8/s1600/IMG_1665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aoxHkwsObCU/ULLI8TIByPI/AAAAAAAAAog/YKHhUj60ER8/s640/IMG_1665.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
When you move through the house, you are greeted by the Wardrobe. It is there where people in the crowd are given roles to help retell the story of Belle and the Beast. (My entire family had roles and they were super cute! Even my hubby was chosen!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbBfIXf0VqE/ULLI9Mz3K2I/AAAAAAAAAoo/Rj94JToYy_s/s1600/IMG_1672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbBfIXf0VqE/ULLI9Mz3K2I/AAAAAAAAAoo/Rj94JToYy_s/s640/IMG_1672.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B72DIgTLO14/ULLI9-IJkWI/AAAAAAAAAos/8R-T4NgiNvc/s1600/IMG_1689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B72DIgTLO14/ULLI9-IJkWI/AAAAAAAAAos/8R-T4NgiNvc/s640/IMG_1689.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qgme4mS1j8k/ULLI_Ue2VcI/AAAAAAAAAo4/3jWwNAjvqcs/s1600/IMG_1692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qgme4mS1j8k/ULLI_Ue2VcI/AAAAAAAAAo4/3jWwNAjvqcs/s640/IMG_1692.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
After the story is finished, they let everyone in the cast take pictures with Belle! Lila was SOOOO excited!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksXb4wNIJs4/ULLJAhjZgiI/AAAAAAAAApA/Qd-0pW5JgVg/s1600/IMG_1718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksXb4wNIJs4/ULLJAhjZgiI/AAAAAAAAApA/Qd-0pW5JgVg/s640/IMG_1718.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then we made our way over to Be Our Guest restaurant and we were able to walk through. It is beautiful inside! The pictures just don't do it justice. I cannot wait to go back next year so we can have dinner!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwHp_PNovd0/ULLJBtKNHlI/AAAAAAAAApI/NFVm8_WhWQ4/s1600/IMG_1726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwHp_PNovd0/ULLJBtKNHlI/AAAAAAAAApI/NFVm8_WhWQ4/s640/IMG_1726.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qVNncZcbUmo/ULLJDPiSYjI/AAAAAAAAApQ/luekBWQsN2Y/s1600/IMG_1728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qVNncZcbUmo/ULLJDPiSYjI/AAAAAAAAApQ/luekBWQsN2Y/s640/IMG_1728.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VIV_TVcd_wU/ULLJFFTr3YI/AAAAAAAAApY/6Que4wHx1z4/s1600/IMG_1729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VIV_TVcd_wU/ULLJFFTr3YI/AAAAAAAAApY/6Que4wHx1z4/s640/IMG_1729.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5mI4rtUyI2c/ULLJHP_4OzI/AAAAAAAAApg/BlPzkqP2J4s/s1600/IMG_1730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5mI4rtUyI2c/ULLJHP_4OzI/AAAAAAAAApg/BlPzkqP2J4s/s640/IMG_1730.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DUdMmKFSdoE/ULLJIWs6bEI/AAAAAAAAApo/xZXbCAVl6lc/s1600/IMG_1731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DUdMmKFSdoE/ULLJIWs6bEI/AAAAAAAAApo/xZXbCAVl6lc/s640/IMG_1731.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AFJNkDBZTEg/ULLJJQSTtPI/AAAAAAAAApw/1KK3HiFZM4s/s1600/IMG_1743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AFJNkDBZTEg/ULLJJQSTtPI/AAAAAAAAApw/1KK3HiFZM4s/s640/IMG_1743.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEWcRqw_Yas/ULLJLaY4ajI/AAAAAAAAAqA/63WFH1NAtcI/s1600/IMG_1756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEWcRqw_Yas/ULLJLaY4ajI/AAAAAAAAAqA/63WFH1NAtcI/s640/IMG_1756.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hL1QokP2gs/ULLJNFVzKVI/AAAAAAAAAqI/DZSx2Iqt0MM/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hL1QokP2gs/ULLJNFVzKVI/AAAAAAAAAqI/DZSx2Iqt0MM/s640/IMG_1759.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so glad that we had this opportunity as I can only imagine what the lines will be like next time we visit! I have a feeling that we will be making a return to trip to see Belle again no matter what the lines are like!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We did make our way to Gaston's Tavern for some treats!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We HAD to try the enormous cinnamon rolls!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was good...not great but good. I think I may need to try it again just to be sure : )</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My girls loved it though!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUGRJnbcGqI/ULLJO-y92mI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/GjgPU-NNne8/s1600/IMG_1761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUGRJnbcGqI/ULLJO-y92mI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/GjgPU-NNne8/s640/IMG_1761.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We also tried the pork shank.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This picture cannot properly show you just how enormous this piece of meat was!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This I will definitely be having again! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RyGFRmzDE5E/ULLJQBZ_juI/AAAAAAAAAqY/jDd4jIEKM0w/s1600/IMG_1762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RyGFRmzDE5E/ULLJQBZ_juI/AAAAAAAAAqY/jDd4jIEKM0w/s640/IMG_1762.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We also went to Ariel's Grotto.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stay tuned for my pictures of that experience!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for visiting!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jess</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-86393300499454556982012-11-25T20:33:00.000-05:002012-11-25T20:33:20.159-05:00Out of the mouth of Lila!<div style="text-align: center;">
Over the last 12 years that Tommy and I have been hosting Thanksgiving, I
have always stressed about things being perfect. Does the silverware
all match? Are there enough matching glasses for everyone? Is the table
set just right? Every year Tommy would try to tell me that none of that
mattered to anyone but me and that I should loosen up a bit and relax. I
couldn't. I just couldn't. But this year was different. I listened to
my husband (thank you dear) and I relaxed. And you know what happened? I
enjoyed Thanksgiving this year. I had fun and liked having everyone at
our house!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On Thanksgiving morning Tommy and I were up around 5:30 to prepare the turkey and get it in the oven. By the time we finished and had things cleaned up, the girls were awake. We did a low key breakfast, got everyone showered and settled in to watch the parades...that's right, we watch 2 parades. We try flipping back and forth between Macy's parade and the Philly parade in hopes that we don't miss anything too spectacular in either one. Everyone else started showing up slowly but surely after a while. We were supposed to eat lunch/dinner at 2:00. Oh yeah, but the turkey was done at 11:30AM. Yep, I said it. DONE. Not like, maybe a little bit done but it could stay in for a little while longer. Nope. Done. But, instead of panicking, I just laughed! What else could I do? This is me no longer stressing if things aren't perfect. I like this me. She was calm. She didn't freak out. (and I hadn't had anything to drink yet!) So, I turned the turkey off and waited until it was time and then finished making dinner. All in all, it was a good meal and everyone ate until they were stuffed. We were surrounded by our loved ones and everyone was happy. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For that, I am extremely thankful. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think I may try to be more relaxed more often. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, I said I would TRY. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't promise anything!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ok, let's get to the part about the child and what comes out of her mouth!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, my little Lila. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lila, Lila, Lila.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lila will say EXACTLY what is on her mind.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She has very little filter but then again, she is only 5.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LOL</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love her!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
K, here goes...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wednesday before Thanksgiving I was driving Lila to gymnastics and we had the following conversation:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Perhaps I should preface this conversation by explaining that my brother-in-law is gay and has been in a relationship for a LONG time. It is the way my girls know and love them and nothing has ever before been questioned or has been looked at as anything other than ordinary.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Me: Uncle Jerry and Uncle Ricky are coming down to stay with us for 4 nights! Isn't that exciting?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lila: Where are they going to sleep?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Me: They are going to sleep in Emma's room (note: Emma has a futon in her room so 2 people can fit in her room.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lila: Who is going to sleep in Emma's bed?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Me: No one, they will both sleep on the futon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lila: But Mom...(INSERT LONG DRAMATIC PAUSE HERE)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
During this long dramatic pause a number of things went running through my head.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. How do I explain to my 5 year old what it means to be gay?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Oh God, please don't ask me this right now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. Tommy and I have never spoken about how to explain this to our girls, maybe we need to do that ASAP.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. Please don't ask me this right now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. WHAT DO I SAY????</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All of these thoughts went through my brain in those few nanoseconds.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I stayed calm.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is how she finished her sentence...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lila: How are they going to fit on the futon? They're HUGE!!!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LOL</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She is hysterical!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As I took a long sigh of relief I also literally laughed out loud at the way her little brain works!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love the fact that my girls don't question it and just know that Uncle Jerry and Uncle Ricky both love them very much and that that is the only thing that matters!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's our girl : )</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!!!</div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-61157469770421735252012-11-21T06:42:00.000-05:002012-11-21T06:42:12.792-05:00Only One?<div style="text-align: center;">
I have missed the last 2 WIWW! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have to admit that I have been lacking int he style department lately, but I do have reasons for being a slacker!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First, we had a visitor.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe you heard of her, Sandy was her name.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Overall, our family made it through the storm basically untouched. We were extremely lucky to not lose power at all so we ended up hosting a bunch of family and friends for showers and a warm place to be. Happy we could help!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Literally 4 days after the storm hit we went on vacation to my happy place....Disney World!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Who doesn't love Disney?!?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Needless to say that when we are in Disney, it is no holds barred Disney wear! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have Mickey, TInk and Minnie t shirts and Disney sweatshirts, and that is basically what I wear for the week!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Laugh if you must but it makes me happy!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My girls even convinced me to get my face painted this year...like Aurora (she's my favorite princess)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Anyway, I only have one outfit for today.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This outfit was SUPER comfy and WARM! I really don't like winter because I cannot stand to be cold so my winter wardrobe must be warm! I love this sweater. I picked it up over the summer at H&M on clearance for $10! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmdGeqfhetE/UKy8__MOz3I/AAAAAAAAAmk/3OaJp_g7LtQ/s1600/IMG_2135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmdGeqfhetE/UKy8__MOz3I/AAAAAAAAAmk/3OaJp_g7LtQ/s640/IMG_2135.JPG" width="307" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBAyUO42VwI/UKy9BZe37-I/AAAAAAAAAms/ZHaJZNGGq_M/s1600/IMG_2136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBAyUO42VwI/UKy9BZe37-I/AAAAAAAAAms/ZHaJZNGGq_M/s640/IMG_2136.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sweater: H&M</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oxford shirt: Old Navy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jeans: NY&Co</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Boots: DSW</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hopefully I can start taking pictures again...and hopefully start getting dressed in something other than my "comfy clothes"!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Thanksgiving!</div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-12902269549969449122012-11-20T17:20:00.001-05:002012-11-20T17:20:33.971-05:00Guess what time it is!I'll give you 1 guess! <br />
<br />
Stay tuned for details...and pictures!!! <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LJaR8PTHV5w/UKwCMG1bH-I/AAAAAAAAAl0/lE7un_r7CRs/s640/blogger-image--511348967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LJaR8PTHV5w/UKwCMG1bH-I/AAAAAAAAAl0/lE7un_r7CRs/s640/blogger-image--511348967.jpg" /></a></div>Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-35998111046002324682012-11-01T10:08:00.000-04:002012-11-01T10:08:59.061-04:00What we did during the hurricane...<div style="text-align: center;">
There isn't a whole lot to do during a hurricane but here is how we handled it...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My girls made a mess... </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-thniqVpxFlU/UJGFpc6EsMI/AAAAAAAAAj8/ZhV3lV_KikQ/s1600/IMG_2116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-thniqVpxFlU/UJGFpc6EsMI/AAAAAAAAAj8/ZhV3lV_KikQ/s400/IMG_2116.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
everywhere!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8GHqULppE2M/UJGFt0-cUsI/AAAAAAAAAkE/nzxvc_V8qkM/s1600/IMG_2117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8GHqULppE2M/UJGFt0-cUsI/AAAAAAAAAkE/nzxvc_V8qkM/s400/IMG_2117.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
over and over again!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-og6itWePZ60/UJGF1qOZOfI/AAAAAAAAAkU/0PaxfEQKoSs/s1600/IMG_2119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-og6itWePZ60/UJGF1qOZOfI/AAAAAAAAAkU/0PaxfEQKoSs/s400/IMG_2119.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They posed for pictures.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLG2W3_UK3M/UJGF5ijJ_WI/AAAAAAAAAkc/VtFLvY7Xvsg/s1600/IMG_2120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLG2W3_UK3M/UJGF5ijJ_WI/AAAAAAAAAkc/VtFLvY7Xvsg/s400/IMG_2120.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And picked out their own clothes.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-41hMJvwkSBA/UJGF6mK_98I/AAAAAAAAAks/h0iEE2i1mJw/s1600/IMG_2121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-41hMJvwkSBA/UJGF6mK_98I/AAAAAAAAAks/h0iEE2i1mJw/s400/IMG_2121.JPG" width="246" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Except for the baby...she stayed in her jammies all day! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7P5hwgUaRB0/UJGF-j2xKmI/AAAAAAAAAk0/i-1JLhOanWI/s1600/IMG_2122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7P5hwgUaRB0/UJGF-j2xKmI/AAAAAAAAAk0/i-1JLhOanWI/s400/IMG_2122.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And apparently my oldest is ready for summer weather again!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sZtFPqx0M1E/UJGFxw0iFlI/AAAAAAAAAkM/JvRyg74uVAo/s1600/IMG_2118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sZtFPqx0M1E/UJGFxw0iFlI/AAAAAAAAAkM/JvRyg74uVAo/s400/IMG_2118.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then there is what Mommy did...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
laundry,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
dishes,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
swept the floor approximately 1,000 times a day because my children make huge messes!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh yeah, and then I painted my toe nails. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rEqoMGEMyYk/UJGHyyh7qXI/AAAAAAAAAk8/fY0GZpv2r_k/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rEqoMGEMyYk/UJGHyyh7qXI/AAAAAAAAAk8/fY0GZpv2r_k/s320/IMG_2114.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I did the girls' nails too but didn't take pictures of them. Mainly because they wouldn't sit still long enough for them to dry!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then I was on Pinterest. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hmmm, not necessarily a good thing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I found this...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="No Bake Vanilla Cake Batter Chocolate Truffles" class="PinImageImg" height="359" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/100768110381974135_OIbvyPuE_c.jpg" style="height: 539px; width: 600px;" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And so I did what any normal person in the middle of a hurricane would do.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I called my hubby and asked him to stop at Giant on the way home and pick up a few things.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And so he did.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have I mentioned that he is the BEST. HUSBAND. EVER!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I tried to make them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And here is how they turned out...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hHx5WjAHp0Q/UJGI-79gYaI/AAAAAAAAAlI/gHknP4WETEs/s1600/IMG_2127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hHx5WjAHp0Q/UJGI-79gYaI/AAAAAAAAAlI/gHknP4WETEs/s400/IMG_2127.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RbkQ_cUnnkM/UJGJAD_q9ZI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/DlhJhjxifAw/s1600/IMG_2129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RbkQ_cUnnkM/UJGJAD_q9ZI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/DlhJhjxifAw/s400/IMG_2129.JPG" width="375" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used semi-sweet chocolate because I already had that at home but I think I might like them better with milk chocolate.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All in all they were pretty good.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you like cake batter.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which I do!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been known to make a cake mix just to sit and eat the batter.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just sayin'.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">-Jess</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-81250728416112001252012-10-28T18:05:00.000-04:002012-10-28T18:05:04.061-04:00I was a guest blogger today!!!Check out my friend Cheryl's awesome Disney blog! I was a guest blogger today! Let me know what you think!!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://magicalmemorymaker.com/?p=1305&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=traveling-with-little-ones" target="_blank">Magical Memory Maker</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Have a Magical Day! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">-Jess </span></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-2473498455779059722012-10-26T09:54:00.002-04:002012-10-26T09:54:54.777-04:00high five for friday<div style="text-align: center;">
I am linking up with <a href="http://www.frommygreydeskblog.com/2012/10/high-five-for-friday_26.html" target="_blank">From My Grey Desk</a> for high five for Friday today...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Five things about this past week...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. I am extremely thankful that, even though I had HUGE anxiety about leaving my Emma with her group at the Emmaus Halloween Parade Saturday night...in the dark...with hundreds of other people around that I didn't know...in an area that I had no idea where I was, she was returned to me safe and sound after the parade. So thankful that her awesome Parkette coaches and other Mommies kept her safe for me! I kind of felt like I wanted to throw up during the whole parade until I got her back!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2k9ifzicIv4/UIqTYR3H2LI/AAAAAAAAAiM/m_jvgTMQ1Fo/s1600/Emma+Grace+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2k9ifzicIv4/UIqTYR3H2LI/AAAAAAAAAiM/m_jvgTMQ1Fo/s320/Emma+Grace+(10).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I happen to be quite attached to this little face!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Helena had her first taste of peanut butter bars...not "official" Nazareth Area school District peanut butter bars but nonetheless, peanut butter bars.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C35b5DLNYQo/UIqUKCrpNvI/AAAAAAAAAiU/t1WnChKopfk/s1600/photo(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C35b5DLNYQo/UIqUKCrpNvI/AAAAAAAAAiU/t1WnChKopfk/s320/photo(1).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm pretty sure she liked them!!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. Baby smiles...what can you say about baby smiles? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They are the best! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Even if she isn't technically a baby anymore!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cUCwAl5lmvs/UIqUfISDC8I/AAAAAAAAAic/sjdIqRg692c/s1600/photo(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cUCwAl5lmvs/UIqUfISDC8I/AAAAAAAAAic/sjdIqRg692c/s320/photo(2).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
See, her face made you smile, didn't it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. Today is my girls' Harvest Party (AKA Halloween party and parade) at school and I cannot wait to go see my black cat, witch and rainbow butterfly! The best part is that my hubby is coming home early to go, my parents are going and my girlfriend and her new baby are going with us too! It really will be a party!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. BEST. HUSBAND. EVER. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's pretty much all I need to say. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He makes every week more than great!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zDGgy8-stF0/UIqVngOHZAI/AAAAAAAAAik/_Tqdx0eHBeY/s1600/Silly+(24).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zDGgy8-stF0/UIqVngOHZAI/AAAAAAAAAik/_Tqdx0eHBeY/s320/Silly+(24).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How was your week???</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-65432678508035306932012-10-21T21:38:00.000-04:002012-10-21T21:38:10.666-04:00Buffalo Chicken Stromboli<div style="text-align: center;">
I found this recipe (<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/116249234102674906/" target="_blank">see it here</a>) on Pinterest the other day and I decided to give it a try. She calls it Buffalo Chicken Garbage Bread but I think it is more like a stromboli. I altered it just a little bit (I only used a tablespoon of Ranch dressing and n cheddar cheese).</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I started with thin chicken cutlets (1.2 pounds)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_PG_6m6QpgA/UISgH4Nu5dI/AAAAAAAAAfc/uO3RnLzqNJQ/s1600/IMG_1958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_PG_6m6QpgA/UISgH4Nu5dI/AAAAAAAAAfc/uO3RnLzqNJQ/s400/IMG_1958.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I cooked it in 1 tablespoon of EVOO and when it was cooked, I cut it into pieces and added the 1/4 cup of Frank's Red Hot Sauce.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wNoFr27uMoo/UISgm6mE2XI/AAAAAAAAAfk/xVxQplyRG8E/s1600/IMG_1960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wNoFr27uMoo/UISgm6mE2XI/AAAAAAAAAfk/xVxQplyRG8E/s400/IMG_1960.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LOVE hot sauce! Can't get enough!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sWLu4_EnuI/UISg1pCEImI/AAAAAAAAAfs/-UmsfTPH85g/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sWLu4_EnuI/UISg1pCEImI/AAAAAAAAAfs/-UmsfTPH85g/s400/IMG_1961.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I sprayed a cookie sheet and and spread the pizza dough out on it. I spread the chicken on the dough and sprinkled 1 cup of reduced fat mozzarella cheese over the chicken. I mixed the remaining 1/4 cup of hot sauce with just 1 Tablespoon of Reduced Fat Ranch Dressing and poured that over everything, rolled it up, and it was ready to go in the oven!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls39kQsFhHg/UISh0eDiEQI/AAAAAAAAAf4/Te6BZNgN2hA/s1600/IMG_1963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls39kQsFhHg/UISh0eDiEQI/AAAAAAAAAf4/Te6BZNgN2hA/s400/IMG_1963.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I put it in a 450 degree oven for about 20 minutes...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xkHC7rv7MRw/UISiF5g0XzI/AAAAAAAAAgA/Wtpx-gegOBo/s1600/IMG_1964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xkHC7rv7MRw/UISiF5g0XzI/AAAAAAAAAgA/Wtpx-gegOBo/s400/IMG_1964.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and it was time to eat! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It looked SOOOOO good!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I couldn't wait to dig in and enjoy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_y08M26S00o/UISiUm-M7iI/AAAAAAAAAgI/UMqRHlT13A0/s1600/IMG_1966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_y08M26S00o/UISiUm-M7iI/AAAAAAAAAgI/UMqRHlT13A0/s320/IMG_1966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
YUMMY!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have to say, it was quite delicious!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will definitely, definitely be making this again!!!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-16142091093452849822012-10-18T13:41:00.001-04:002012-10-18T13:41:59.838-04:00Growing up too fast!I am feeling like my girls are really growing up WAY too fast for my liking. Even though my oldest and I do not always see eye to eye (I cannot even imagine what the next 10 years will have in store for us!) it makes me so very sad to see her growing up. She needs me less and less and wants me even less than that! She is only in 2nd grade and she is having social issues with friends...not major but important enough to a 7 year old. She's had a "boyfriend" since preschool. Yes, it has been the same boy this whole time and NO, her father cannot stand it but he has become quite accepting of it and he is understanding little girls more and more every day! Does she know that she will ALWAYS be my baby? In fact, do they all know that they will always be MY babies??? I cannot even imagine letting them go...I can't even let them walk in to PREP class by themselves yet and that is at a Catholic school!<br />
<br />
It seems much easier for me to handle with the middle two. Maybe because they will never be the first one to grow up and I can hang on to them for a bit longer. But I have to say, the youngest makes me especially sad too. She has started to go potty, even letting us know sometimes when she has to go. That's the beginning of the end, isn't it? I must say that I am enjoying my time at home with her immensely! I actually feel quite guilty that I never had this kind of time with my other three. I was either working or there was always another baby around to be tended to or preschool that we had to get to. There was always something else taking my attention away from them. But now it is just the two of us during the day. We run errands, we go to lunch, we read books and play and I love it! I hope she does too.<br />
<br />
So, how do you hold on just a little bit longer? I often ask them if they would stay little for just a bit longer for me and they always give me the same answer, "No! I want to grow up!" I just want to tell them "don't be in such a hurry girls! Slow down and have fun!"<br />
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PrHjXoRgy8A/UIA-nfItzOI/AAAAAAAAAew/IBu1Uq6pDK4/s1600/First+day+of+school!+(15).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PrHjXoRgy8A/UIA-nfItzOI/AAAAAAAAAew/IBu1Uq6pDK4/s400/First+day+of+school!+(15).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxd5STBfMuY/UIA-rHSX0SI/AAAAAAAAAe4/RpSYLYWYkO4/s1600/IMG_1778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxd5STBfMuY/UIA-rHSX0SI/AAAAAAAAAe4/RpSYLYWYkO4/s400/IMG_1778.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-44737311518219661572012-10-10T11:25:00.000-04:002012-10-10T11:25:04.276-04:00Style Wish List<div style="text-align: center;">
If I had unlimited money these are the things that I would go out and get...like now!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Flat Brown Boots</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a pair of brown boots that I just got (see <a href="http://shafnisky.blogspot.com/2012/09/horray-wiww.html" target="_blank">here</a>) but they have a heel on them and I would really like a pair of flat ones. They would be much easier for me to do all of the crazy running around that we do!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I do have a gift certificate to DSW from my sister (Thank you Angelina!!!) so I am keeping my eyes open for a great deal!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like these...(ok, so the image from DSW wouldn't copy so this is the link to the boots I like! <a href="http://www.dsw.com/dsw_shoes/catalog/product.jsp?fromPage=shoppingBag&category=dsw12cat1740074&brand=&prodId=252687&no_redirect=1&skuId=58000000002526872400000M008.0&productRef=&qty=1&item=ci8574033425" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am also thinking about a cute pair of booties : ) Never thought I'd wear them but all of you amazing women out there have inspired me with your outfits! Probably won't ever end up getting them but I think it is something I would like to try to pull off sometime. (All of these are just wishes anyway because, as we all know, money doesn't grow on trees!) LOL</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like these... <img class="" id="dragImg" src="http://oldnavy.gap.com/assets/common/clear.gif" />From Old Navy (<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=55149&vid=1&pid=287623&scid=287623032" target="_blank">here</a>) </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www1.assets-gap.com/webcontent/0005/198/982/cn5198982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" id="mainImage" src="http://www1.assets-gap.com/webcontent/0005/198/982/cn5198982.jpg" style="display: inline;" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Speaking of Old Navy...I saw this hat when I was in the store not so long ago and I haven't stopped thinking about it yet! (<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=37808&vid=1&pid=251676&scid=251676022" target="_blank">here</a>) The best part is that it comes in a bunch of different colors...and I love them all! But this is definitely an extra!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="200" id="mainImage" src="http://www3.assets-gap.com/webcontent/0005/237/039/cn5237039.jpg" style="display: inline;" width="150" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am always on the lookout for a great sweater too. Right now I'd like to find an oversized, comfy one that I can wear with leggins or my skinnies! Love this one but CANNOT afford the price tag! Do you have a favorite oversized sweater?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="225" data-width="225" height="225" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRpsOGWAOvis3xoFYcq3S4ZwYhK8MGpLPo2k8ucpfE2x5H_SXRCTA" style="height: 225px; width: 225px;" width="225" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And may be a cute cardigan or two...like these</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="200" id="mainImage" src="http://www1.assets-gap.com/webcontent/0005/175/047/cn5175047.jpg" style="display: inline;" width="150" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This one is from Old Navy (<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=60783&vid=1&pid=476877&scid=476877042" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Shawl Cardigan - Assorted Colors " class="photo" height="200" id="heroImage" itemprop="image" src="http://Img2.targetimg2.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/14/07/14075912.jpg" width="200" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This one from Target is super cute! (<a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-supply-co-juniors-shawl-cardigan-assorted-colors/-/A-14075912#prodSlot=large_1_10" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Merona® Women's Ultimate Cardigan Polka Dot Sweater - Assorted Colors " class="photo" height="200" id="heroImage" itemprop="image" src="http://Img2.targetimg2.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/14/06/14062956_120619223000.jpg" width="200" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is just something about polka dots! Target (<a href="http://www.target.com/p/merona-women-s-ultimate-cardigan-polka-dot-sweater-assorted-colors/-/A-14062956#prodSlot=large_1_29" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you have anything on your wish list for the fall???</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jess</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-39277643643444395412012-10-09T14:47:00.003-04:002012-10-09T14:47:51.654-04:00One of My Favorite Things About Fall Is...My Mom's Pumpkin Bread!!! Unfortunately, this year with trying to keep my calories down I wasn't sure I would be able to partake as I usually do in this delicious little treat! (and by partake I actually mean to stuff myself with as much as I can possibly eat!)<br />
<br />
I seriously wait for this all year! I know it may be kind of weird that we don't make it at other times during the year but it seems to be one of those comfort foods that you just associate with the fall!<br />
<br />
This is my Mom's recipe:<br />
Mix Together:<br />
1 2/3 C flour<br />
1/4 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
3/4 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp ground cloves<br />
1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp all spice<br />
<br />
Beat Together:<br />
1 1/2 C sugar<br />
1/2 C oil<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 C canned pumpkin<br />
<br />
Combine and either put into a greased and floured loaf pan or separate in to muffin tins (makes 12 muffins)<br />
<br />
So I decided to try to make it low calorie and this is what I did...<br />
<br />
Mix Together:<br />
1 2/3 C flour<br />
1/4 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
3/4 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp ground cloves<br />
1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp all spice<br />
<br />
Beat Together:<br />
<strike>1 1/2 C sugar </strike>3/4 C Truvia<br />
<strike>1/2 C oil </strike>1/2 C applesauce<br />
<strike>2 eggs </strike>1/2 C Egg Beaters<br />
1 C canned pumpkin<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LyDbbvBo41k/UHRv-7iPOJI/AAAAAAAAAaE/V2Sl3VxATOk/s1600/Pumpkin+Muffins+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LyDbbvBo41k/UHRv-7iPOJI/AAAAAAAAAaE/V2Sl3VxATOk/s320/Pumpkin+Muffins+(4).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WcVVAsJsMg/UHRwCbqAi8I/AAAAAAAAAaM/HO2FoIdI6SU/s1600/Pumpkin+Muffins+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WcVVAsJsMg/UHRwCbqAi8I/AAAAAAAAAaM/HO2FoIdI6SU/s320/Pumpkin+Muffins+(5).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">BEFORE</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9q_DG2LII9U/UHRwGsbcWTI/AAAAAAAAAaU/9eUDr3cLqpY/s1600/Pumpkin+Muffins+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9q_DG2LII9U/UHRwGsbcWTI/AAAAAAAAAaU/9eUDr3cLqpY/s320/Pumpkin+Muffins+(6).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">AFTER</span> </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3V-isu1CEWc/UHRwKMO9FXI/AAAAAAAAAac/YWkzb4Ev4yc/s1600/Pumpkin+Muffins+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3V-isu1CEWc/UHRwKMO9FXI/AAAAAAAAAac/YWkzb4Ev4yc/s320/Pumpkin+Muffins+(7).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This brings the calories to about 88 calories per muffin (I like making muffins because they are super easy to just grab and go!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have to say, they were not as moist as Mom's are but they were still quite good. I think next time I might try doing half applesauce and half oil to see if that makes a difference! Oh well, can't win 'em all!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for stopping by,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jess</span></span></div>
<br />Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-4372391480213403062012-10-04T06:25:00.001-04:002012-10-04T12:34:34.281-04:00I Did It!<div style="text-align: center;">I used the blue nail polish that came in my September Birchbox...and not on my toes like I had thought I would. I went for it and here are the results...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZpBobjWIkA/UGra_l8zZJI/AAAAAAAAAWs/4FVm6UG3iGo/s1600/IMG_1022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZpBobjWIkA/UGra_l8zZJI/AAAAAAAAAWs/4FVm6UG3iGo/s640/IMG_1022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMlnCnFY-4A/UGyiUejkH9I/AAAAAAAAAZo/sm-veVxe0Wo/s1600/IMG_1632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMlnCnFY-4A/UGyiUejkH9I/AAAAAAAAAZo/sm-veVxe0Wo/s640/IMG_1632.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Well, what do you think? I'm still not so sure about it. It is a super bold move for me. I usually stick to more subtle colors on my fingers. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh well. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Right?</div>Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-62977633307546517652012-10-02T11:41:00.000-04:002012-10-02T11:48:45.159-04:00Where is My Owner's Manual???When you buy something...just about anything, you generally get an owner's manual, right? For instance, a new dishwasher, washer and dryer, a new car and even a remote control; they all come with owner's manuals. Right? Can someone please explain to me how it is that children don't come with an owner's manual??? How can the most important little things that come into our lives be given to us with no instructions? Why didn't God give us a book?<br />
(Which by the way, if He did give us a book I would guess that it would be WAY to long for anyone to even attempt to look at let alone read the whole things so we would pretty much do what we want to do anyway.)<br />
<br />
But I digress.<br />
<br />
God has decided that it would be a good idea to give us, their parents, these precious, tiny, little, <i>NEW</i> people to raise and mold into big people...without instructions! Does He really think this is wise? Some of us had a hard time keeping ourselves alive and on the right path in our early years and now we are given the responsibility of doing that for another person...or people (if you have more than one child). Recently this thought has begun to scare the complete crap out of me. I am responsible for these little people to grow up and become good people. I don't mean good people like doctors or lawyers or anything that has to do with money. I mean <b><i>GOOD </i></b>people. The kind of people that care about others. The kind of people that have empathy and are willing to help someone in need.. Not only are we in charge of that but we have to make sure we don't screw them up along the way. Don't spoil them. Don't coddle them. Don't get them involved in too many things but don't let them be lazy either. Don't let them spend too much time on the computer but don't let them grow up and not know how to turn on a computer/iPad/iPod/whatever else is out there. Feed them, but only what is good for them. Don't be a helicopter parent but don't be an absentee parent.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please, Please, Please, someone give me some instructions on how to do all of this the right way!</div>
<br />
<br />
I worry so much about whether or not I am a good mom and if I am doing the right things for my girls. But what exactly are the "<i>right</i>" things? What does that even mean? Are these pressures that I am putting on myself? Am I not a good mom if there are days when I want to run out my front door just screaming and yelling at the top of my lungs? Luckily, I don't have those days every day (sometimes it just feels like it).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then, I look at my girls. I mean <b><i>REALLY </i></b>look at my girls. Sometimes they will be playing with their youngest sister in the way only a big sister can, or they will be reading by themselves just because they want to, or they will ask to help with the dishes without being asked, or when they are sleeping (because let's be quite honest, kids are almost always the most beautiful and angelic when they are asleep). And I know, or at least I am putting my faith in the fact, that God wouldn't have given <i>us </i>these little people to raise and mold into big people if He didn't believe in us. For some reason, unknown to anyone down here, He believes that we can make their lives exactly what they are supposed to be. So in my times of confusion, exasperation, exhaustion and sometimes sheer desperation, I am going to try really, really hard to remember His belief in us. The fact that He brought me such an amazing husband to share this crazy journey with makes me feel much better about the whole thing because I know that when I fall apart, and I <b><i>do </i></b>fall apart, my partner in life will be there to not only pick up the pieces I have left behind but to help me put everything back together too.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So onward we will march through this crazy life we are creating, with no instructions or directions, just our faith that all will be as it should be.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My partner in crime ; )</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTQkAiu0exI/UGsKKLIE65I/AAAAAAAAAXU/XynyUirHxmA/s1600/Silly+(24).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTQkAiu0exI/UGsKKLIE65I/AAAAAAAAAXU/XynyUirHxmA/s400/Silly+(24).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our little people... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jfIGTbQSGhA/UGsKdgWLMdI/AAAAAAAAAXg/3z2hKo26r9w/s1600/Little+Helena+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jfIGTbQSGhA/UGsKdgWLMdI/AAAAAAAAAXg/3z2hKo26r9w/s400/Little+Helena+(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPrTpr6blKo/UGsKiofg8FI/AAAAAAAAAXo/Nclt7VT3c1o/s1600/Sisters+(16).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPrTpr6blKo/UGsKiofg8FI/AAAAAAAAAXo/Nclt7VT3c1o/s400/Sisters+(16).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My amazing family </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Jitm0tblBU/UGsKkxl6bLI/AAAAAAAAAXw/QCD3Ui9lAog/s1600/piggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Jitm0tblBU/UGsKkxl6bLI/AAAAAAAAAXw/QCD3Ui9lAog/s400/piggies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-47638995970782357742012-10-02T08:25:00.002-04:002012-10-02T08:25:17.361-04:00September Birchbox (I know, I'm a little late!)I know, I know. September Birchbox? But it's already October! I'm a little bit behind the times. What can I say???<br />
<br />
But, for those of you who are interested, here is what my Birchbox held last month!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a little booklet that had fashion and make up tips and ideas for the fall. It was cute.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mBeWhujSOAo/UGrappE2kGI/AAAAAAAAAV4/1WGmDwj_2qA/s1600/IMG_1016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mBeWhujSOAo/UGrappE2kGI/AAAAAAAAAV4/1WGmDwj_2qA/s640/IMG_1016.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
An example of what was inside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GacPqm2kLlA/UGratpChD8I/AAAAAAAAAWA/5pcXdBClGgQ/s1600/IMG_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GacPqm2kLlA/UGratpChD8I/AAAAAAAAAWA/5pcXdBClGgQ/s640/IMG_1017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a volumizer. They gave us the shampoo, conditioner and volumizing spray samples. I used them all and didn't really notice a difference in my hair (although I did really like the smell!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jK0WZNL9EeE/UGraxN5wO4I/AAAAAAAAAWI/2njmLcbII-Q/s1600/IMG_1018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jK0WZNL9EeE/UGraxN5wO4I/AAAAAAAAAWI/2njmLcbII-Q/s640/IMG_1018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lfn4xynoo4U/UGra1LdcASI/AAAAAAAAAWU/wpQoHcVpuus/s1600/IMG_1019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lfn4xynoo4U/UGra1LdcASI/AAAAAAAAAWU/wpQoHcVpuus/s640/IMG_1019.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh boy! What's next???</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuySWGel1IQ/UGra4kRrzVI/AAAAAAAAAWc/gpMZZrKMPJ8/s1600/IMG_1020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuySWGel1IQ/UGra4kRrzVI/AAAAAAAAAWc/gpMZZrKMPJ8/s640/IMG_1020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Perfume! I have to say that have not received one perfume sample from them that I haven't loved and this is no exception!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dv4-LwcjAX0/UGra8aeqG_I/AAAAAAAAAWk/6RRm54h7FJA/s1600/IMG_1021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dv4-LwcjAX0/UGra8aeqG_I/AAAAAAAAAWk/6RRm54h7FJA/s640/IMG_1021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This nail polish I have yet to try yet. I'm not sure if I am bold enough to put it on my fingers so I am thinking maybe for my next at home pedicure I will try this color! What do you think? Would you wear blue on your finger nails???</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZpBobjWIkA/UGra_l8zZJI/AAAAAAAAAWs/4FVm6UG3iGo/s1600/IMG_1022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZpBobjWIkA/UGra_l8zZJI/AAAAAAAAAWs/4FVm6UG3iGo/s640/IMG_1022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Lastly, was a hair tie. This is actually the second one of these that I have received in one of my Birchboxes. To me, it's just another hair tie. I'm not really picky on how I put my hair up as long as it is out of my face! (I have been known to hold my hair back with a pencil at times!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x58d9x8xYI0/UGrbDVBIq9I/AAAAAAAAAW4/YCMNzoGJCS8/s1600/IMG_1023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x58d9x8xYI0/UGrbDVBIq9I/AAAAAAAAAW4/YCMNzoGJCS8/s640/IMG_1023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All in all, a good selection of things but nothing that I would go out of my way to purchase on my own.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can't wait to see what October has in store for me!</div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-35311130793643497062012-09-25T20:25:00.000-04:002012-09-25T20:25:21.816-04:00Decorating...I will be the first to admit that I am HORRIBLE at decorating. If you have been to my house you know that there is no actual style or much of anything in my house. It seems that we just kind of have random stuff in our house and not anything that remotely goes together. We are both minimalists but that being said, we have 4 children and no playroom so everything is in their rooms and our living room. UGH...It drives me crazy.<br />
<br />
Anyway, here is my point. I want to redo my family room. Repaint and everything. Right now my living room is a tan color but I would really like to paint
it...soon. We bought new furniture last winter and there is a blue
color in the pillows that I would love to use but am not sure if it
would be too much.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the pillow...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sih1VW2CmK0/UGJJbJTIzUI/AAAAAAAAAVA/y2bbPKDaXqk/s1600/IMG_1456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sih1VW2CmK0/UGJJbJTIzUI/AAAAAAAAAVA/y2bbPKDaXqk/s640/IMG_1456.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We also have these 2 buffets that were once my grandparents. One is int he living room and the other is in the dining room. We took them at the time because we had no other furniture and needed something. The first one, sits inside of my front door with either nothing really on it or filled with the kids' stuff (I use the word stuff loosely because what I would really like to say is the kids' crap!) I'm not really sure what to do with this. I don't really like it the way it is but I'm not sure what to do. I am open to anyone's thoughts or ideas.<br />
<br />
Here it is... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lsQjNpaWkUQ/UGJJwEHCWZI/AAAAAAAAAVM/8-NIFV3m6cs/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lsQjNpaWkUQ/UGJJwEHCWZI/AAAAAAAAAVM/8-NIFV3m6cs/s640/IMG_1321.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5OXhqRRs8zc/UGJJ0GoCTAI/AAAAAAAAAVU/QoZUkaKxHjg/s1600/IMG_1323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5OXhqRRs8zc/UGJJ0GoCTAI/AAAAAAAAAVU/QoZUkaKxHjg/s640/IMG_1323.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
I also need to figure out something to do with our windows as well. What kind of blinds? What kind of curtains? This is not an easy thing for someone who has no...let me repeat that, NO decorating ability at all!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking for any tips or suggestions to help a struggling decorator!</div>
<br />Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-46420424744198297502012-09-15T12:45:00.000-04:002012-09-15T12:45:07.496-04:00A Moral Question...Ok Mommas (and Daddys if you're reading too). I have a BIG question for you. May be it is not a moral question...maybe it is just a question of when is enough, enough? If you're reading this then you probably know that 2 of our girls are in to gymnastics. Our 6 year old has been taking gymnastics at Parkettes and is now starting her 4th year there. She LOVES gymnastics. She gets very excited when she gets a new skill and she really likes the girls that she is in class with (they have been together for the past 2 years now). That being said, let me tell you about her schedule. Over the summer she was moved up to Level 4 (this is the level where you start to compete) so things have gotten intense. Her summer schedule was Monday and Friday 12-3 and Tuesday 12-3:30. Yes, that's right. She is 6 years old and was spending 9 1/2 hours a week in the gym. There were a few times that she got upset because she couldn't go swimming or anything else and it was difficult but she always had fun in class. Fall classes have started and now her schedule is Tuesday 4-6:30, Thursday 4-6:30 and Saturday 11-3. Yes, 9 hours a week. Plus she still has school, dance class and PREP. It is a lot, I know. Recently, E has started crying when we take her anywhere...school, gymnastics, etc. She cries and says she is going to miss us to much. Today when Daddy took her to gymnastics, she cried the whole way there because she wanted Mommy to take her instead. When he started asking her about gymnastics and what was wrong she finally came out with, "it is just not fun anymore." Hmmm...what do we do with that?<br />
I understand that it is not really fun. It is a hard working class and it is a ton of hours. BUT she does love gymnastics and she LOVES to compete and this is the level where that really starts to happen.So, the question is what do we do? There are options. She can stay where she is for this semester (I think it goes until the end of November) and see how she feels then. She can move down a level and be in the same class with her sister (which would make traveling a WHOLE lot easier but is not a factor in the decision!) or she can quit completely. Now, the thing is we don't want to push her to do this and make her hate gymnastics but we don't want to encourage her to quit when the going gets tough either. What's the right decision and how do you know???<br />
Any advice at this time would be greatly appreciated!<br />
Thanks<br />
: )Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-37858023376702528082012-09-14T08:37:00.001-04:002012-09-14T08:42:13.063-04:00Favorite Outfit of the WeekToday I am linking up with Casual Chic Mom for "Favorite Frock Fridays"<br />
Check it out!<br />
<a href="http://www.casualchicmom.com/2012/09/star-print-jeans-linkup.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CasualChicMom+%28Casual+Chic+Mom%29&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank"><img alt="BLOG TITLE" src="http://i839.photobucket.com/albums/zz311/tundeivan/BLOG%20non%20outfit%20pics/favoritefrocknewgrabbuttonSMALL-2.jpg" /></a><br />
This outfit has to be my favorite of the week! I LOVE this top that I got from Old Navy and am considering going back and getting another one in a different color. Have you ever bought the same piece of clothing in different colors because you loved it that much?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lpZUM0JyKgQ/UFDHKKtbwfI/AAAAAAAAAPo/uTjVcR37Kns/s1600/IMG_1029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lpZUM0JyKgQ/UFDHKKtbwfI/AAAAAAAAAPo/uTjVcR37Kns/s400/IMG_1029.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5swNMXN-HVE/UFDHLWXUn0I/AAAAAAAAAPw/2bGKXM85-DQ/s1600/IMG_1051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5swNMXN-HVE/UFDHLWXUn0I/AAAAAAAAAPw/2bGKXM85-DQ/s640/IMG_1051.JPG" width="368" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQzj_SbIDko/UFMkyN3NKwI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/gCqRrQrJgNs/s1600/IMG_1056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQzj_SbIDko/UFMkyN3NKwI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/gCqRrQrJgNs/s640/IMG_1056.JPG" width="386" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Top: Old Navy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jeans; Old Navy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shoes: Target</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Necklace: NY&Co</div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-52003853617112581192012-09-14T08:33:00.000-04:002012-09-14T08:33:37.953-04:00Ruffles and Leopard Print Shoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a bit chilly here in the morning but was supposed to get warmer
throughout the day and I really wanted to wear my new ruffle blouse I
just picked up from Target so I decided to throw on a cardigan that I
got from the NY&Co outlet store and I thought they would go well
with my Old Navy skinny jeans. A perfect outfit for a busy day!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83dVj8bCvLs/UFIbL480b1I/AAAAAAAAAQI/nPOAhcYX2mU/s1600/IMG_1075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83dVj8bCvLs/UFIbL480b1I/AAAAAAAAAQI/nPOAhcYX2mU/s640/IMG_1075.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lAQ97sBo_s/UFIbODaMiKI/AAAAAAAAAQY/s0SpqMB77R4/s1600/IMG_1096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lAQ97sBo_s/UFIbODaMiKI/AAAAAAAAAQY/s0SpqMB77R4/s640/IMG_1096.JPG" width="304" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSCMX_eRKJU/UFIbM5jkVCI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/YIJPe_9I2J0/s1600/IMG_1093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSCMX_eRKJU/UFIbM5jkVCI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/YIJPe_9I2J0/s640/IMG_1093.JPG" width="362" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YOu2MEdLDM/UFIbPURGUSI/AAAAAAAAAQg/lWnNfJzkUiw/s1600/IMG_1109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YOu2MEdLDM/UFIbPURGUSI/AAAAAAAAAQg/lWnNfJzkUiw/s640/IMG_1109.JPG" width="388" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I thought about belting the sweater but wasn't super happy with how it looked. Would you have belted this cardigan?</div>
<br />
Top: Target (<a href="http://www.target.com/p/merona-women-s-sleeveless-ruffle-top-assorted-colors/-/A-14151303" target="_blank">here</a>)<br />
Jeans: Old Navy<br />
Shoes: Payless (<a href="http://www.payless.com/store/product/detail.jsp?catId=cat10088&subCatId=cat10276&skuId=099414055&productId=70092&lotId=099414&category=&catdisplayName=Womens" target="_blank">here</a>)<br />
Sweater: NY&Co outlet store<br />
<br />Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3663149956701317481.post-88253824153149228842012-09-10T11:26:00.000-04:002012-09-10T11:26:24.408-04:00I'm No Expert, but...I really love opening a new tube of mascara!<br />
<br />
I know, I know. It might be silly but sometimes the little things can make you smile! I love long lashes and so mascara is one of my favorite products. I have been using this mascara for quite a while now and I've been super happy with it!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hW2iP4EA-Js/UE4EanctxrI/AAAAAAAAAMk/Cu6Tls6sRXE/s1600/IMG_0973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hW2iP4EA-Js/UE4EanctxrI/AAAAAAAAAMk/Cu6Tls6sRXE/s320/IMG_0973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is Maybelline the Falsies Volum' Express (see <a href="http://www.maybelline.com/Products/Eye-Makeup/Mascara/Volum-Express-The-Falsies-Washable-Mascara.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I use Brownish Black in waterproof and I usually put on 2 coats.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhUGkitwXxQ/UE4FndH2lpI/AAAAAAAAAMw/Qy7wgJ_0dPM/s1600/IMG_0971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhUGkitwXxQ/UE4FndH2lpI/AAAAAAAAAMw/Qy7wgJ_0dPM/s320/IMG_0971.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love everything about this product! I love the way it goes on without getting clumpy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qHf3qu7xy-o/UE4Fr30xkbI/AAAAAAAAAM4/82No2_zUd-o/s1600/IMG_0977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qHf3qu7xy-o/UE4Fr30xkbI/AAAAAAAAAM4/82No2_zUd-o/s320/IMG_0977.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love the shape of the brush as it really makes application quite easy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5Obt7sApwo/UE4Fv07I-EI/AAAAAAAAANA/IPyG6xGuiW8/s1600/IMG_0978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5Obt7sApwo/UE4Fv07I-EI/AAAAAAAAANA/IPyG6xGuiW8/s320/IMG_0978.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Again, I'm no expert and these are just my opinions, but I love it. What do you think?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2I7HooAdnE4/UE4Fxg3mnSI/AAAAAAAAANI/sRX3pQLfn20/s1600/IMG_0999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2I7HooAdnE4/UE4Fxg3mnSI/AAAAAAAAANI/sRX3pQLfn20/s320/IMG_0999.JPG" width="243" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What kind of mascara do you use?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17114353072444816831noreply@blogger.com1