tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11548010059999124632024-02-07T21:29:06.361-07:00Baby StepsFollow me as I navigate my way through my twenties, being a wife and a stay at home mother. Let the adventures begin!!Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-90679481775409809562011-05-05T09:11:00.002-06:002011-05-05T12:15:25.519-06:00Recipe of the Week.............. Quinoa "Fried Rice" <span style="font-size: large;"> Happy Thursday everyone! Yesterday Ellie and I took a trip to Costco and bought the first of our spring plants. Including a beautiful lavender plant for inside, it already smells wonderful even though it hasn't bloomed. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBebkVNHSXnvBolajyezvnCLTaiJFwEd1LVfE97h5EJrW0PWNq_lprarGnLR-yTZlodjnknlkqUtbz49xEIjT0OWrJ7OtqeUKbgluguaphFpDko9pL7oeIKoni-VqwQiKBxKB6evzl1pbh/s1600/aprilmay+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBebkVNHSXnvBolajyezvnCLTaiJFwEd1LVfE97h5EJrW0PWNq_lprarGnLR-yTZlodjnknlkqUtbz49xEIjT0OWrJ7OtqeUKbgluguaphFpDko9pL7oeIKoni-VqwQiKBxKB6evzl1pbh/s320/aprilmay+017.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hopefully buying outdoor plants doesn't jinx the beautiful, mild weather we've been having. I was just craving greenery, since after the snow melts in this wonderful city, every plant and piece of green is dead and brown.</span> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Its supposed to rain this weekend, so we've been trying to enjoy the weather by spending lots of time outside.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Now on to the recipe for this week. I sort of threw this together one day when I was trying to get Ellie to eat some vegetables. She ate two servings of this the first time I made it, and every time ever since. I shared the recipe with a few friends and their kids also devoured it! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A lot of the reason is because kids LOVE quinoa. Its a mild tasting, tiny little grain that is absolutely packed with nutrition. I started eating quinoa about four or five years ago when I was a vegetarian, since it contains more protein and nutrients than any other grain. At that time you could only find it in health food stores and it was quite pricey. Now Quinoa is everywhere! You can find it at the best price, by far, at Costco. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> For more nutritional information about Quinoa click </span><a href="http://www.allaboutquinoa.com/quinoa-nutrition-facts/general-quinoa-information/"><span style="font-size: large;">here</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> This recipe is sort of thrown together ( as my recipes usually are) so you can decide how much of everything you would prefer to add. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><strong><span style="color: #990000;">Quinoa " Fried Rice"</span></strong></u></span><br />
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<u><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"> What you will need:</span></u><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Quinoa</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">- vegetables of choice</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">- two eggs ( whisked )</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">- ham, chicken or any other meat of choice</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">- soy and Worcester sauce.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">- vegetable oil ( I use sesame oil but it isn't necessary)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>How to put it all together:</u></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">1- Cook one serving of quinoa as instructed. ( one cup of quinoa to two cups of water) You want it to be slightly undercooked, it should still be a little bit crunchy. Set aside.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">2- Chop vegetables and meat into small pieces. I chop mine as small as possible so my daughter doesn't realize whats in it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">3- Put chopped vegetables and meat in a large skillet, pot or wok with some vegetable oil and add small amount of soy, Worcester and seasonings of choice. Cook on medium/high until vegetables are tender.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">4- Add the quinoa, stir.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">5- Add small amount of soy and eggs ( whisk before adding ).</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">6- mix and cook well. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This makes a great lunch, or even an easy dinner if your in a hurry.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> If you noticed that I titled this "Recipe of the Week" instead of "Recipe Wednesday", its because I've decided to post when I can, instead of a certain day of the week. I was setting myself up for failure really, I am NOT organized enough for that! HA!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I hope everyone is having a great week. Can you <em>believe</em> we're already five days into May?! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">- </span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Rebecca</em></strong></span>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-10031203521835050902011-05-03T09:06:00.000-06:002011-05-03T09:06:54.367-06:00WE HAVE A WINNER!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLCAMMbVhYLvBROjzPYjgRc72xRrweUjoqK7LARTMxk7IukiB4Aiq-sg47wWCiSoranEhJ3s0hBo_HFq1I-968DGRKWJGctFcivunBQ-7KkJW4VXEXMZ8aOVAEoUzHYS4iCSCeBTQPe7S/s1600/babyboo+logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLCAMMbVhYLvBROjzPYjgRc72xRrweUjoqK7LARTMxk7IukiB4Aiq-sg47wWCiSoranEhJ3s0hBo_HFq1I-968DGRKWJGctFcivunBQ-7KkJW4VXEXMZ8aOVAEoUzHYS4iCSCeBTQPe7S/s1600/babyboo+logo.png" /></a></div> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And the winner of the BabyBoo Giveaway is.............................</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><strong> Lizzie Fofonove!!</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<iframe frameborder="0" id="rdo-iframe-draw-5995" longdesc="http://www.random.org/draws/" scrolling="no" src="http://www.random.org/widgets/draws/iframe.php?draw=5995&fixsize=off&limwin=off&border=on&bgcolor=%23E0E0E0&txtcolor=%23000000&" style="height: 150px; width: 445px;"></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Congratulations Lizzie, BabyBoo will be emailing you shortly! Make sure to post a picture of your little one in your winning hat on BabyBoo's facebook page. I can't wait to see what you choose!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Thank-you everyone for entering and supporting Baby Steps and BabyBoo, I wish everyone could have won! And thank-you to Olga (owner of BabyBoo) for allowing this giveaway to happen and being so generous. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am working on more wonderful giveaways for the near future, so keep an eye on the blog! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">- </span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Rebecca</em></strong></span>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-89679663842691743272011-05-02T00:33:00.001-06:002011-05-02T00:35:28.785-06:00These are a few of my favorite things...skin care edition.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I thought I would throw in a random post about something I would be interested in. There is always a fascination between women and what products they use. Looking into a women's purse....or diaper bag...can be a window into they're soul! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"> My purse would have loose cheerios, bobby pins and 5 or 6 random lip glosses to name a few things. How glamorous! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> The same goes for a woman's vanity or bathroom cupboard. I have had a skincare routine since I was about thirteen or fourteen. As soon as I started "wearing" make-up ( No there NOT be photos posted! ) my mother made sure I cleansed my face every night. She threatened the consequence of not washing my face would be pimples galore...which is true, and it scared me into being religious about my routine. I have tried almost everything available for my combination, blemish prone skin. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Which is why when I moved to Edmonton I got a job as a skincare expert at Sephora West Edmonton Mall. It was very easy for me to help people since I myself, have tried it all. I am extremely picky when it comes to the products I put on my skin, although I am less so now that I am a mother. Now it is more important for me to have highly effective products that are not too complicated. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I also try to stick to products that are more natural, or at least ingredient driven brands. What I mean by that is, the more non-sense on the bottle that I cannot pronounce, the less likely I will purchase it. I am even more so picky when it comes to the products I will use on my daughter. The studies that link diseases to chemical or unnatural ingredients aren't always the most accurate, but I prefer to take precautions and use products that choose to use more natural plant based ingredients. Better safe than sorry in my opinion, but obviously every mother knows whats best for their own child. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> So for this post I am going to share what I am using at the moment, and also what Ellie uses.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivUuXWg8ZJt3f3kWDr6SwgmOakphg0IVCxSzNMXwUPjvar8A6oMHLcsuTMrbZT7IlYd2QWoJKeCQj7ChwPtxiy_J2j9jsPO3CgBhIMnKa_qwc1UIN0bBXSbWD2dN8G_g8nwU19VvTPN3rQ/s1600/purity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivUuXWg8ZJt3f3kWDr6SwgmOakphg0IVCxSzNMXwUPjvar8A6oMHLcsuTMrbZT7IlYd2QWoJKeCQj7ChwPtxiy_J2j9jsPO3CgBhIMnKa_qwc1UIN0bBXSbWD2dN8G_g8nwU19VvTPN3rQ/s1600/purity.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> When ever I try something new I always end up going back to this great, easy cleanser. It takes off eye and complexion make-up so easily and makes your skin feel so clean. It is sold in 4 different sizes at Sephora, and is suitable for ANY skin type.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmX5j25dZSOAinaOf3xq53gtVIHhh45SCPKomVFjT2dFxZtgEn-DpCUCDQhoUrMfXqeaatCHzFYI-Ax5V2-hUkJIgQSKxH9VYGxU9jPfX_Q0AVKVTsGMVauLM0kAb3m6khqWFIPW6iQxu/s1600/ole+heriksen+3+pack+skincare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmX5j25dZSOAinaOf3xq53gtVIHhh45SCPKomVFjT2dFxZtgEn-DpCUCDQhoUrMfXqeaatCHzFYI-Ax5V2-hUkJIgQSKxH9VYGxU9jPfX_Q0AVKVTsGMVauLM0kAb3m6khqWFIPW6iQxu/s1600/ole+heriksen+3+pack+skincare.jpg" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">In the last few months I have been using this set from Ole Henriksen and I LOVE it. Its been really hard on my skin living in such a dry climate. Since I have combination skin and its sometimes hard to find a balance between moisturizing enough and clogging my pores. This set is perfect, it has your exfoliator, moisturizer and a great serum. Its so easy to use and all the products are non-comedogenic ( which means they will not clog your pores). My skin has been looking bright and refreshed from all the brightening ingredients in these products ( vitamin c, licorice root extract, AHA's) The price is also great for such quality skincare at $70 for the set ( almost half off if you bought them separately) Available at Sephora.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaOpBagfSjJP7pkwWQu7R0qf0rZ9TpRNpR8QsIU-OeI_yVDq9MbS4tSvgPvughnlukdcaEmN5jA_wT9F3JZkf16tMIccW1he_7OwLvRqD1GnTZYwXfR7dUQDpjat5zRrXWN7v6cP5IlNq/s1600/bkamins+eye+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaOpBagfSjJP7pkwWQu7R0qf0rZ9TpRNpR8QsIU-OeI_yVDq9MbS4tSvgPvughnlukdcaEmN5jA_wT9F3JZkf16tMIccW1he_7OwLvRqD1GnTZYwXfR7dUQDpjat5zRrXWN7v6cP5IlNq/s1600/bkamins+eye+cream.jpg" /></a></div>This eye cream is just easy and basic. It a gel so it sinks right in and hydrates. ( available at Sephora )<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSTv0HqKiGRtwpZ3z9W2R_s0_aIaZKhC_jhptCwfPQZmtaP1VOliRTlVpykeMJo9ANtMyy5C3DUVcdO0Ah10DgBEX_uPdXW20Qvp_OkA_WWZWKgW5m1xSowvN-MoKNzNGTsWS7NBfJfdh/s1600/sunscreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSTv0HqKiGRtwpZ3z9W2R_s0_aIaZKhC_jhptCwfPQZmtaP1VOliRTlVpykeMJo9ANtMyy5C3DUVcdO0Ah10DgBEX_uPdXW20Qvp_OkA_WWZWKgW5m1xSowvN-MoKNzNGTsWS7NBfJfdh/s1600/sunscreen.jpg" /></a></div>I am so lazy when it comes to protecting my skin from the sun, so this is perfect for me. I can keep it in my purse or diaper bag and just brush it on when needed. It wont make you greasy or clog your pores. LOVE! ( available at Sephora)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SgMHiXYaAymnyfZTGBTyPEESh5WtZo3zQAiWPhlrkPVqVu-mNwP7X8y4PFZOhjeBOWeZlH7DTWNpChFENFFJTIQIm5FZYy8Y6zPKJoVZRfBQkVM_eZ-yihLwMc8DN7xiMTNiYhzMw4uK/s1600/lavanilla+body+butter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SgMHiXYaAymnyfZTGBTyPEESh5WtZo3zQAiWPhlrkPVqVu-mNwP7X8y4PFZOhjeBOWeZlH7DTWNpChFENFFJTIQIm5FZYy8Y6zPKJoVZRfBQkVM_eZ-yihLwMc8DN7xiMTNiYhzMw4uK/s1600/lavanilla+body+butter.jpg" /></a></div> Last product for me is this great body butter from LAVANILLA. The smell isn't too over powering, its super hydrating and full of great antioxidants for your skin. (available at Sephora)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit__UdyuJXBUHlziGbIlyGAAOeEZx8hqbOWZuHJi0fVC4qZJkkdAkElhM14BB63iNHOFXRUjfVhASt5mhXeEoOtulmGsAkvwZsUjpcsvb7B6SJ90SMnCz9nKPDK7aMvaKJvEw3v9wqcDwh/s1600/ellies+wash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit__UdyuJXBUHlziGbIlyGAAOeEZx8hqbOWZuHJi0fVC4qZJkkdAkElhM14BB63iNHOFXRUjfVhASt5mhXeEoOtulmGsAkvwZsUjpcsvb7B6SJ90SMnCz9nKPDK7aMvaKJvEw3v9wqcDwh/s320/ellies+wash.jpg" width="191" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzvEyhMEFoAKKkR6I9zu_7t8kg6IryDYnG5LGey3GGvv5cuSfn89w4HsxHnGEV1UbNirE1Y3SLpRF98NXiSFz5OogvIqWNOjaE8qRhxtpSKmAf7jkEnnpKpLyf4GZs5viWYtO_Gw1uLVX/s1600/ellies+lotion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzvEyhMEFoAKKkR6I9zu_7t8kg6IryDYnG5LGey3GGvv5cuSfn89w4HsxHnGEV1UbNirE1Y3SLpRF98NXiSFz5OogvIqWNOjaE8qRhxtpSKmAf7jkEnnpKpLyf4GZs5viWYtO_Gw1uLVX/s320/ellies+lotion.jpg" width="191" /></a></div> These baby products are TO DIE FOR! If you were to bottle the smell of a baby, this scent would be as close as you could get. We've tried other brands for Ellie but none have even compared to this one. The wash and lotion are natural, smell great and are very affective. The only down side? Live Clean Baby is a little pricey at 7-8 dollars a bottle, but I find the bottles last quite a while. You can purchase it at any drug or grocery store, I find it is usually the lowest price at Superstore. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I hope every one found this interesting and not too superficial. I think that its important to take care of your skin as a part of your over-all health. Especially when you are a mother, you have to remember to take care of yourself as well. We slather lotions and sunscreens on our babies and then forget about ourselves. I am going to make it a priority to take care of my skin this summer. After all, how can I tell my daughter its important to protect her skin if I'm not doing it myself?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Next week I'll let everyone know whats in my make-up bag and then my curly hair must haves!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't forget to enter the <a href="http://steplikeababy.blogspot.com/2011/04/babyboo-giveaway.html">BabyBoo Giveaway</a>! The contest ends at 12pm tomorrow (MST) May.2nd, make sure you enter if you haven't already. You do not want to miss out on the chance to win a BabyBoo hat for your little one, they are the ultimate accessory. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Bjncv86T5yi5habvQhL2QNB9lCzB9AXXI5ORtLwCPKrmGQOY4QTT1V7EccTl5keCX4v62UbUAA9eIKntX7d-5aP7TGhBX3JLObIqthH8GXFmi_36cA3P7pO4SD2mkz57iu01DPvTZzfe/s1600/ellie+mar-apr+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Bjncv86T5yi5habvQhL2QNB9lCzB9AXXI5ORtLwCPKrmGQOY4QTT1V7EccTl5keCX4v62UbUAA9eIKntX7d-5aP7TGhBX3JLObIqthH8GXFmi_36cA3P7pO4SD2mkz57iu01DPvTZzfe/s320/ellie+mar-apr+012.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Here's another picture of Ellie in a BabyBoo hat strolling around the mall a few months ago. Good luck to everyone who has already entered, I can't wait to see who wins!</span><br />
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<div align="left"><span style="font-size: x-large;">- <strong><em><span style="color: #990000;">Rebecca</span></em></strong></span></div></td></tr>
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<img height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmX5j25dZSOAinaOf3xq53gtVIHhh45SCPKomVFjT2dFxZtgEn-DpCUCDQhoUrMfXqeaatCHzFYI-Ax5V2-hUkJIgQSKxH9VYGxU9jPfX_Q0AVKVTsGMVauLM0kAb3m6khqWFIPW6iQxu/s1600/ole+heriksen+3+pack+skincare.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 325px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1365px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" /> <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-21963830481087013892011-04-28T11:40:00.000-06:002011-04-28T11:40:01.030-06:00Quick, Easy Toddler snack/lunch recipe.<span style="font-size: large;"> We have been super busy over the last couple days, visiting our family in beautiful BC. Ellie is always thrilled to see everyone, and of-course all the birdies and choo-choo's Langley has!!! We've talked about the choo-choo train almost everyday since she saw it on our last visit, I cant wait to see her face when we see it tomorrow in Fort Langley. Our Ellie is quite the sensitive soul, she cries when any of Dora's friends are in trouble, and always does a long, "awwwwwwwwwwh." whenever she see an animal. So we were surprised that the big train that runs through the beautiful, historic town of Fort Langley ( Josh's hometown and where we got married) didn't spook her. Its even too loud for mommy's ears sometimes! Instead she squealed with delight and went on and on about that big choo-choo she saw. So cute.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> This weeks recipe is a no brain-er. I have the hardest time finding new snacks and lunch ideas for Ellie. I found myself making too many grilled cheese sandwiches and opening too many cans of lentil soup. I saw a similar recipe to this on a mommy forum and decided to try it out. I found that even I love it! Who would have thought that a savory pancake would taste so good?! That's right a savory pancake.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> <span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #660000;"><u>Yummy Savory pancakes</u>;</span></span></strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><u>What you will need;</u></span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Vegetables of your choice, chopped finely ( about 3/4 cup) </span><span style="font-size: small;">We love to use shredded carrots, bell peppers, green onions, zucchini, and mushrooms.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Cheese of your choice ( about 1/2 a cup) </span><span style="font-size: small;">We love to use strong cheddar.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Deli Ham chopped into small pieces ( about 1/2 cup ) </span><span style="font-size: small;">or whichever type of meat you prefer, we use nitrate-free deli meat.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Pancake mix </span><span style="font-size: small;">We use Bob's Gluten-free pancake mix, which isn't very sweet to begin with.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">1- Satay the vegetables and ham in a pan with a small amount of oil and seasoning to taste, until slightly tender. Set aside.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">2- Prepare pancake mix.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">3- Add in vegetables and meat mixture, and then cheese.</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">4- Cook pancakes as instructed.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Serve them with toppings of your choice! </span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">- Butter</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">- Salsa, guacamole</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">- Ketchup</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">- Cottage cheese</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">- Cream cheese</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Hummus or T</span><span style="font-size: large;">zatziki </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Or whatever toppings you see fitting! Enjoy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> These are a great way for me to get vegetables into my daughter without having to threaten bedtime. And who knows how long that will work anyways, HA!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I hope everyone is having a great week. Don't forget to enter the <strong><u>BabyBoo Hat Giveaway</u></strong> below, there are only a few days left! Its our first contest so the chances of winning are seriously high. The best part? You win a hat of YOUR CHOICE, and they have a ton of options for your little one. Don't miss out. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I love giveaways, and enter them all the time, why not get something for free? We spend enough on our kiddies! Too bad I cant enter this one because I would be ALL over it! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wMISE5r9RQni-78uQUTK6a9FoECcQQZeHkW3IuNwMYDNGX2dGBzGd0IOKyhbxhjevLeTY9Bgv-CRAuZ_Z5CBwlwp3-9s6eQF9LUtx_uYVGxrkcVlXvDfKmsyTYMLXgnoN146nfp5_UAz/s1600/IMG_0909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wMISE5r9RQni-78uQUTK6a9FoECcQQZeHkW3IuNwMYDNGX2dGBzGd0IOKyhbxhjevLeTY9Bgv-CRAuZ_Z5CBwlwp3-9s6eQF9LUtx_uYVGxrkcVlXvDfKmsyTYMLXgnoN146nfp5_UAz/s320/IMG_0909.JPG" width="240px" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here's a pictures of Ellie in one her <strong>BabyBoo hats,</strong> at 5 months old, almost exactly one year ago...sigh. She just melts my heart!</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">-<strong><em><span style="color: #990000;"> Rebecca</span></em></strong></span>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-45818515640975236622011-04-25T11:09:00.001-06:002011-04-25T20:49:43.328-06:00BabyBoo GIVEAWAY!!!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqN9sSthMrM8BKPP-47w-hI5RUBC6pT2Wu0OyEKoIJjYQoM16t45O55qQUFByigg4dibuqz8BcyXzCBCnhZAZ8byrAZoJnhTEwmVbbxga2uHXoo50a1HpWybvAxqbsfHPzpOMR8dYgWhXR/s1600/babyboo+logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqN9sSthMrM8BKPP-47w-hI5RUBC6pT2Wu0OyEKoIJjYQoM16t45O55qQUFByigg4dibuqz8BcyXzCBCnhZAZ8byrAZoJnhTEwmVbbxga2uHXoo50a1HpWybvAxqbsfHPzpOMR8dYgWhXR/s200/babyboo+logo.png" width="200" /></a></div> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> Anyone who knows me and my daughter, knows I am OBSESSED with hats, and if they know me well enough to know that, then they also would know that the hats I am MOST obsessed with are <a href="http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/">BabyBoo Hats</a>. Since Ellie was born I have probably purchased <em>at least</em> ten of these amazing hats! I don't know about all of your children, but my Ellie went through some seriously awkward hair "stages". First there was the "cul-de-sac", and then the "reverse mullet" and now she is plagued by "back of the head frizz". Isn't it just easier to put an adorable hat on your child rather than battle with their crazy hair?</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Why are <em>these</em> hats so amazing you ask? Well take a look for your self....</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAENO8onRQXSOkgndiZ-S6alZa4sUDrSuqZ72RNAOtURHwbNrCQiFLhIcVkDl-exus7s5WvpI6wbt7d6m_bWW6h67zCdpgWvIOL4xRDd-VBh02r1xCNgo49S4h_gbkYIQUhZ2k5LmLPFx0/s1600/baby+boo+white.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAENO8onRQXSOkgndiZ-S6alZa4sUDrSuqZ72RNAOtURHwbNrCQiFLhIcVkDl-exus7s5WvpI6wbt7d6m_bWW6h67zCdpgWvIOL4xRDd-VBh02r1xCNgo49S4h_gbkYIQUhZ2k5LmLPFx0/s400/baby+boo+white.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuLaXoQHJkeIZBLzqD_i0DlJGVM5a_R3yJfgcT6bZ6OzwaCtECfnWFUqpnlaBEy91iIzl61n0oAid9iVEk8UPokCnhlLUQ-rbbpRhHrmWp-t4l6Xzwc0FKZaH2u_6A7m3sK0w-Udwq7aA/s1600/babyboo+mow+halk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuLaXoQHJkeIZBLzqD_i0DlJGVM5a_R3yJfgcT6bZ6OzwaCtECfnWFUqpnlaBEy91iIzl61n0oAid9iVEk8UPokCnhlLUQ-rbbpRhHrmWp-t4l6Xzwc0FKZaH2u_6A7m3sK0w-Udwq7aA/s400/babyboo+mow+halk.jpg" width="264" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kdi9vSVvo1XX9hcrJdUGUu4uZbKYnd9rgwtID6YDsRlqzN_F3AaxzTpt23HQDcXFiX1RkyllUFsaxmYCxxkNFbpOEh8OJt17ghUSYZDFIt98-QmMU_w4yQe50lFnbGK5BkUHYqjNTv-U/s1600/black+boys+with+plaid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kdi9vSVvo1XX9hcrJdUGUu4uZbKYnd9rgwtID6YDsRlqzN_F3AaxzTpt23HQDcXFiX1RkyllUFsaxmYCxxkNFbpOEh8OJt17ghUSYZDFIt98-QmMU_w4yQe50lFnbGK5BkUHYqjNTv-U/s1600/black+boys+with+plaid.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8N8TVp_OjUxHw18-jvIPpXCUjY_UsuxdnUwiI8A8peZ5VfKWZz3sywGh5YX_kjVgJTsxGscoeA3RX3eKrkMgw40xuAQOHQm34r4ZH2au_rYYtdSs5ceSVsjOsyx_U4Xnyt3g8Z7U_pNl9/s1600/black+with+red+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8N8TVp_OjUxHw18-jvIPpXCUjY_UsuxdnUwiI8A8peZ5VfKWZz3sywGh5YX_kjVgJTsxGscoeA3RX3eKrkMgw40xuAQOHQm34r4ZH2au_rYYtdSs5ceSVsjOsyx_U4Xnyt3g8Z7U_pNl9/s1600/black+with+red+flowers.jpg" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2rcG-FEqdC6NC2HbfGsDnJHpWKuqAm5O6lqeV0JLY7OVUAMNxM_hL9BvRNPObB8s5tGdOpdZItWvAQs4Qa6KkOENzHxCiwodYsRG40yvKZ7wwesk2cL_F7zM8Y6SF61I-hP4h-wDd81W/s1600/babyboo+yellow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2rcG-FEqdC6NC2HbfGsDnJHpWKuqAm5O6lqeV0JLY7OVUAMNxM_hL9BvRNPObB8s5tGdOpdZItWvAQs4Qa6KkOENzHxCiwodYsRG40yvKZ7wwesk2cL_F7zM8Y6SF61I-hP4h-wDd81W/s400/babyboo+yellow.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are many more adorable hats to be seen at <a href="http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/">http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/</a>, check them out!</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Okay, I want to have a boy next just so I can buy a Mohawk hat for him!! I am totally eyeing the yellow with the purple flower next for my daughter, its perfectly bright for spring and summer. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> When Ellie wears her <a href="http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/">BabyBoo's</a> we constantly get compliments. I love that they are light enough for spring and fall, even summer, but some how they are still warm enough for winter! Because they are made with such a soft, stretchy and light bamboo-cotton blend, they are comfortable for your little one to wear, and your little one WILL wear them. These are the only hats that my daughter doesn't immediately pull right off her head! My girlfriends toddler will not leave ANYTHING on her head, but she will keep a Babyboo hat on. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Every hat is unique and made with love and quality materials by a stay-at-home BC mom, Olga. I just love supporting local brands made by moms... we <em>have</em> to support each other ladies. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Like I said before, I have purchased over 10 hats for my daughter and have NEVER had a problem with the quality of a hat, that's pretty rare if you ask me. Not a stitch out of place, not a petal falling, not a detail lost...notta! It is a real testament to Olga's work, she makes each hat with so much care and love. After all, her wonderful talent allows her to work from home and have more time with her two young children ( who yes sport <a href="http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/">BabyBoo hats</a> ). Olga also happens to be an incredibly sweet person, and wonderful with customer service. If you aren't able to find the exact hat you were wanting from the boutiques they are sold in around BC and Saskatchewan ( which you can find on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/BabyBoo/252314822556?sk=wall">BabyBoo facebook page</a> ), or on her <a href="http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/">website</a>, then you can custom order the hat you want for a small, fair fee. I recently got a custom creation for my little one and it is PERFECT!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerG0i4gGnoo4zIwdsI7Csgw67S-owBb5q2jhit176_AuDd4hHonPZhyphenhyphenPZSSVm5EltyELxpCMQ6ECGdyRyqaNRTMl0hz8CkMcRUujJVO7Bf3L9rOZVfIF7z4rjwJZtwQHWS3f0Wn97hPkJ/s1600/earth+day+in+april+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerG0i4gGnoo4zIwdsI7Csgw67S-owBb5q2jhit176_AuDd4hHonPZhyphenhyphenPZSSVm5EltyELxpCMQ6ECGdyRyqaNRTMl0hz8CkMcRUujJVO7Bf3L9rOZVfIF7z4rjwJZtwQHWS3f0Wn97hPkJ/s320/earth+day+in+april+015.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"> You know I couldn't resist an opportunity to throw in a picture of my little princess. The pearl with the rhinestones is absolutely stunning and classic, I'm totally in love with this hat on my daughter!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Okay so before we get to what YOU could WIN, lets re-cap what is so great about BabyBoo Hats;</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- They STAY ON! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- They are ultra soft</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- They are light enough for spring, summer and fall, but also warm enough for winter. Seriously.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- They are ultra stylish, cute and fun. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Your child WILL NOT even notice that its on!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- They are made by a local stay-at-home mom.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- They are made with such care and quality and stand the test of time or of a child I should say!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> And now onto what you all are waiting for....<strong> </strong></span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqOkaIDlu_JtLJxtMVcYyt07iUFFbcoeYb9XeeT7nRY_TiQE8muPvVATEty9RvOR672pA8DdsCDjT4CsE7t1R87mRI15SxCqb_y7pejT5sw4XaPPyP4wFGSKjH0YhyphenhyphenwJcKqEpy5NLU91-/s1600/babyboo+logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqOkaIDlu_JtLJxtMVcYyt07iUFFbcoeYb9XeeT7nRY_TiQE8muPvVATEty9RvOR672pA8DdsCDjT4CsE7t1R87mRI15SxCqb_y7pejT5sw4XaPPyP4wFGSKjH0YhyphenhyphenwJcKqEpy5NLU91-/s1600/babyboo+logo.png" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"> <span style="color: #cc0000;"> is giving away a <u>hat of choice</u> to ONE lucky winner!!!</span></span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is how to enter;</span><br />
*<em>please read carefully there will be no exceptions to the contest rules*</em><br />
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-<span style="font-size: large;"> Become a <strong>fan</strong> of the <strong>BabyBoo facebook page</strong> by clicking <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/BabyBoo/252314822556">here</a> and then clicking "like", <strong>leave a message on BabyBoo's wall</strong> saying you did so on behalf of this contest, and then <strong>leave a comment on this post</strong> with your <strong>first and last name</strong> and <strong>email address</strong> letting me know you did.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Its that easy!!! Want to increase your odds?? You can....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1- <strong>Follow Babysteps blog</strong> then comment on this post with your first and last name and email address saying you did.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2- <strong>Share this contest on <em>your</em> facebook page</strong>, encouraging your friends to enter and again comment on this post with your first and last name and email address letting me know you did.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> So in total you have three chances to enter! Keep in mind the first entry ( becoming a fan of <a href="http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/">Babyboo</a> on Facebook) is MANDATORY. The other entries are optional. There will be NO exceptions to the rules, so make sure you read them carefully. All entries will be thoroughly checked before the draw. The contest is open to all <strong>Canadian and U.S residents</strong>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Contest will close on <strong>Monday May.2nd at 12pm MST</strong>. The winner will be chosen by <a href="http://random.org/">Random.org</a> and announced on Tuesday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Thank-you to <a href="http://www.shopbabyboo.ca/">BabyBoo</a> for being so generous, I cant wait to see who wins!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Good luck everyone!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">-</span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><em> Rebecca</em></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-58239765742892889482011-04-21T08:47:00.003-06:002011-04-21T10:48:38.488-06:00Earth Day!<span style="font-size: large;"> Tomorrow is <span style="color: #274e13;">Earth Day</span><span style="color: black;">! In order to show our appreciation for the earth, the computer will be unplugged, so will the TV, there will be no driving, and we will be using cloth diapers for the day. I think it is important to separate yourself from technology every once in a while and really enjoy the day. Ellie and I will be heading to the park to have a picnic and feed some ducks, and appreciate nature for a day. One huge difference I noticed when I moved to Edmonton from BC is that people just don't appreciate the outdoors as much. It is a little hard to celebrate mother earth when she covers us in white stuff 90% of the year! Will all you Edmonton residents be taking a moment to appreciate the earth tomorrow?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> On behalf of <span style="color: #274e13;">Earth Day</span><span style="color: black;"> I'm going to share a really awesome natural all-purpose cleaner recipe that I found in <a href="http://www.canadianfamily.ca/">Canadian Family Magazine</a>, this works amazingly well!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> </strong> <span style="color: #274e13;"><u><strong>Earth Day All-purpose Cleaner!</strong></u></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"> -Take <strong>8 cups of warm water</strong> and <strong>add 1 tbsp of Borax</strong>, <strong>1/2 cup of liquid Castile soap</strong> ( vegetable based soap in organic section of grocery store) and <strong>1/2 cup of white vinegar</strong>. Put in a reusable spray bottle and its ready!! It is great for kitchen counters, floors, and bathrooms, pretty much any mess you can think of.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Obviously there will be no Frugal Fashion post tomorrow, but it will be posted on the weekend.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> What will everyone be doing to celebrate <span style="color: #274e13;">Earth Day</span><span style="color: black;">? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">- <em><span style="color: #990000;">Rebecca</span></em></span>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-21629558904918726682011-04-21T00:43:00.001-06:002011-04-21T00:48:57.596-06:00Recipe Wednesday....Easy Easter Treat!<span style="font-size: large;"> Easter is just around the corner, and i just love this holiday! It may or may not have something to do with the fact that i am addicted to chocolate...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I also think it is so fun to spend the day outside searching for hidden items, pretty dress on, basket in hand. My dad used to write riddles for us to find our hidden Easter presents in the house. It was always so much fun to try and solve them and hunt for our yummy prizes! I'm so excited for Ellie to be at the age where we can do the same thing for her. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> This recipe can hardly be called a recipe, its just too easy! This is meant to be a fun treat to make with the kids that looks super cute when displayed, tastes great and takes minutes!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtBmXchyphenhyphenL9YJCjM6tWeYmxvmcoayWMZsBQ_MC_UM1ten1Mv0snvArSmFXfaENCjKsi3kEJlVLyDOnIpUTPZUTqWPxArByl4hmpbIggeInfTBTI-z-SNhf6DoiUDQzuja_89dcGXj0rTPe/s1600/April20th+103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtBmXchyphenhyphenL9YJCjM6tWeYmxvmcoayWMZsBQ_MC_UM1ten1Mv0snvArSmFXfaENCjKsi3kEJlVLyDOnIpUTPZUTqWPxArByl4hmpbIggeInfTBTI-z-SNhf6DoiUDQzuja_89dcGXj0rTPe/s320/April20th+103.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is what you will need for <strong>Jelly Bean Bark:</strong></span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">- Easter colored jelly beans ( any size or type of your choice)</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">- White Chocolate ( about 12-18 ounces, I used 2 packs of Baker's white chocolate squares)</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">- Semi-sweet or milk chocolate ( about 8 ounces, I also used Bakers )</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">- A baking sheet</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">- parchment paper</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> 1- Melt the white chocolate in a double broiler over boiling water, with 1.5 inches of water in the pot . * If you don't have a double broiler, be creative. I used a medium sized pot and the bowl from my rice steamer. It fit perfectly and worked like a charm! * Stir the chocolate frequently until fully melted. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">2- Line the pan with parchment paper</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">3- Pour white chocolate into lined pan evenly</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">4- Place semi-sweet chocolate in broiler and melt the same way as the white chocolate, once completely melted, set aside.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">5- Add jelly beans to white chocolate in pan *use as many as you want, but in my experience more is better* </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">6- Then spoon semi-sweet chocolate on top creatively.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">7- Place pan in fridge until firm, break apart and voila!</span></strong><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiKL7XcKl2pGq7rPveTCR6RgpL69rl_2Jo4z4Ed_JXlIYcWj6PlMLedyspm4uZDE2mq2QQdfFet1uGmb0NyDq7Y_kPAKBBcajLhfsxl7_eR7WPIN06Vg0iYOy7yYmnZp8ZmMm0pIJGNON/s1600/April20th+104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiKL7XcKl2pGq7rPveTCR6RgpL69rl_2Jo4z4Ed_JXlIYcWj6PlMLedyspm4uZDE2mq2QQdfFet1uGmb0NyDq7Y_kPAKBBcajLhfsxl7_eR7WPIN06Vg0iYOy7yYmnZp8ZmMm0pIJGNON/s320/April20th+104.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong> </strong>I prefer it chilled, I love that cool crunch you expect from a "bark", but it can be stored either room temperature or in the fridge or freezer.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Z1mEG3uIzPpVR-oIj33zsxF7nE8JlisipDAk4DjQq1QhjX6oG__mslyF1MelBzNfqdwSebppHpcGVreHkOAx7yZUPezD4I-H9wBsAabqz_qos-m4_8i0DXCZk5wE2XMv3hI40AaQBEEK/s1600/April20th+125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Z1mEG3uIzPpVR-oIj33zsxF7nE8JlisipDAk4DjQq1QhjX6oG__mslyF1MelBzNfqdwSebppHpcGVreHkOAx7yZUPezD4I-H9wBsAabqz_qos-m4_8i0DXCZk5wE2XMv3hI40AaQBEEK/s320/April20th+125.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> </strong>I think it looks so fun, especially for how easy it is to make! I know Ellie had so much fun adding the chocolate, well more like licking the spoon....and adding the jelly beans, well more like licking the jelly beans. Ha! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter weekend! We are eagerly anticipating daddy coming home for Easter and my 25th birthday, and visiting family and new baby Keiran in Beautiful BC, aka home. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">- </span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><em>Rebecca</em></span>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-63212339672043902011-04-20T23:56:00.002-06:002011-04-21T11:28:32.992-06:00Monday Mommy Find....Vogue!! <span style="font-size: large;"> Okay so I know its WAY past Monday, I have been one negligent blogger...already. Life has kept me quite busy enough, especially since my husband has been away for a few weeks now. I am one tired mama! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I am so excited that there is a new beautiful addition to our extended family! One of my very best friends had a little baby girl, and I couldn't be more thrilled. This is girl number three, daddy is in trouble! She is perfect and tiny and so so loved. Last night I started going through my daughter's "old stuff" bin to see if there was anything that my friend would like, and there I was bawling my eyes out! All the clothes were so tiny I couldn't <em>even understand</em> how she was ever that small. The beautiful "newborn" stage where your just getting to know each other and all they want is to be held, when everything is a first and everything is so exciting, it is such a magical time. That being said its also a time where sleep deprivation is a serious problem and other mommy worries that are no fun. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I love the age my daughter is at right now, so inquisitive, so silly, so quick and unbelievably intelligent. Its like having a pet parrot, which can definitely keep you on your toes. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I guess there is something so fun about every stage of your child's life, the only problem is it goes frighteningly fast. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Congratulations to my best friend and her beautiful family on another wonderfully girl-y addition Keiran, these girls could seriously take over the world, WATCH OUT! Ha!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Now on to the Mommy Finds! I was going to feature Ellie's new spring wardrobe on Friday's Frugal Fashion Finds, but mommy got a few wardrobe additions so those will be featured instead. ( Thank goodness for birthdays!) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I am IN LOVE with the clothing for toddlers this spring/summer. It is so whimsical and girly and romantic, quite similar to mommy's fashion pics actually! There are beautiful pastel colors, lace and flowy whimsical dresses that are very vintage inspired. I seriously can't get enough of the ballerina inspired pieces, tutus, and bodysuits, flats and that wonderful ballerina pink. Oh I just think its perfect for little girls. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I hope everyone likes these pictures because man oh man it was hard to get my model to cooperate! But she was SUCH a little trooper, mommy tried to make it as quick and painless as possible. Even so this will be our last baby fashion post that she models...ha.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Nothing beats a beautiful, easy dress for summer, whether it be for baby or mommy. I'm also a lover of white.....yes I know she's a toddler, my "girly" girl happens to be quite clean. She's just not the roll in the mud type of gal, so I feel it is safe.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVI-ErktrO0w_rroXmD531WZGlJhNK57DRHbllGnnQ2MoPKHXA3Lr1p_eM-FT2EHlJobDw8JjmhzvWFCXlu0M-YZ_ilzyWYBJMHyibYTaZWi9vnobl4AyQoyfoWjcGGo-dmXlWEZhMD5Oe/s1600/April20th+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVI-ErktrO0w_rroXmD531WZGlJhNK57DRHbllGnnQ2MoPKHXA3Lr1p_eM-FT2EHlJobDw8JjmhzvWFCXlu0M-YZ_ilzyWYBJMHyibYTaZWi9vnobl4AyQoyfoWjcGGo-dmXlWEZhMD5Oe/s320/April20th+004.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;">Hello? Anyone there?</span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84WVYlm0WqEuALfhWXBPAQ8vH8IZGOUEAJTXcJirjWmxVhk_pE8eTzkaRnLcWZRY0bu6hiI6vkBSsqDhxkwsg8fUrVbX6_1VH_yCUleDKahVgI2fedhl8-wVBd5vDNfKCvVhQ_dZ1VC2F/s1600/April20th+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84WVYlm0WqEuALfhWXBPAQ8vH8IZGOUEAJTXcJirjWmxVhk_pE8eTzkaRnLcWZRY0bu6hiI6vkBSsqDhxkwsg8fUrVbX6_1VH_yCUleDKahVgI2fedhl8-wVBd5vDNfKCvVhQ_dZ1VC2F/s320/April20th+003.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh hello beautiful! What else I love about white is that I have a TON of Babylegs and tights that will be able to get lots of use with this number. </span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9jL5GvaFw7FHTUUfJE866TdPtOSBEsBQrNahVeQ0dodSQJhsSk09ufj5KcQD6pkMrKOtYL0v_Kur0Jo2P-kF_qElgNq-rXSu5so_3tIwB4hxy_ZoVCPdxflzH6g0_mput6nSX0y2rzr9/s1600/April20th+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9jL5GvaFw7FHTUUfJE866TdPtOSBEsBQrNahVeQ0dodSQJhsSk09ufj5KcQD6pkMrKOtYL0v_Kur0Jo2P-kF_qElgNq-rXSu5so_3tIwB4hxy_ZoVCPdxflzH6g0_mput6nSX0y2rzr9/s320/April20th+008.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It is a little bit big, but it will fit perfectly by summer. Its a nice comfortable, soft cotton and I just love the lace details. <strong>From Baby Gap: $30, Tights Babylegs from Babysteals: $20 ( including shipping for a set of two) </strong></span></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfxjeMFLxLcmxV5e6e3C33TnkdptX_ZQl_nXkSpezQC3SJdQ5CQb2q-8SBy7hyphenhyphenBu4vra4TBZmedKAx2pNqiLHzqxgIKz8vcfp3jDYPhc61C9ioRpCKEOZ3rfqFSkS4SYa9zyF-kbLKf8B6/s1600/April20th+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfxjeMFLxLcmxV5e6e3C33TnkdptX_ZQl_nXkSpezQC3SJdQ5CQb2q-8SBy7hyphenhyphenBu4vra4TBZmedKAx2pNqiLHzqxgIKz8vcfp3jDYPhc61C9ioRpCKEOZ3rfqFSkS4SYa9zyF-kbLKf8B6/s320/April20th+019.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> This is Ellie's special Easter dress also from <strong>Baby Gap: $35</strong>. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TZVRZd7Uem99GaGNCylCbsdM14tgv3kxw2fgBUYQmNlx0iDxLfu7vvq3eK73qzuHkDdyNiMwE7gi5uVt4glnSQQFEo-aB-Z0oVNhQK1ySAgxTIP9n9DZjYa_oq9buRgrV18WzXc_97gr/s1600/April20th+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TZVRZd7Uem99GaGNCylCbsdM14tgv3kxw2fgBUYQmNlx0iDxLfu7vvq3eK73qzuHkDdyNiMwE7gi5uVt4glnSQQFEo-aB-Z0oVNhQK1ySAgxTIP9n9DZjYa_oq9buRgrV18WzXc_97gr/s320/April20th+017.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> It has such a wonderful vintage feel, she looks like a little southern bell.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPPFlALafLCGK-OynSUDnE-WRwRg2jfqPEdI3nxIxI0m9xVP7mhoBYhwQbUiBjAcbFKGbQ5aPjexEfB1V6KuQ2aYj6bmZk1lmgOyKgKFeOLmrxuqdzQMeo3V1p2tZxtNDoSxb3JcfJLhs/s1600/April20th+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPPFlALafLCGK-OynSUDnE-WRwRg2jfqPEdI3nxIxI0m9xVP7mhoBYhwQbUiBjAcbFKGbQ5aPjexEfB1V6KuQ2aYj6bmZk1lmgOyKgKFeOLmrxuqdzQMeo3V1p2tZxtNDoSxb3JcfJLhs/s320/April20th+021.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> She was loving it too!!</span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTY7chjU5ii775HswNFN3pFjijyPreZh4iXbVonslE7pXuXCXnfrBdhmgSU4L5sw4mHntTWS06M7z4B1xgnp1J-OYetQVZHB8cUc7Dy3AGyJKdgQ14_n5cdf3VtAAZqamCPP1PxqNFQHpL/s1600/April20th+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTY7chjU5ii775HswNFN3pFjijyPreZh4iXbVonslE7pXuXCXnfrBdhmgSU4L5sw4mHntTWS06M7z4B1xgnp1J-OYetQVZHB8cUc7Dy3AGyJKdgQ14_n5cdf3VtAAZqamCPP1PxqNFQHpL/s320/April20th+028.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">This dress is Ellie's FAVORITE! She asks to put it on all the time, I think it will be getting a lot of use this summer.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj25y9cU7ml8KvT-njIji0L4eZF3EXQ9eXYO8eTgMYxsoDS2sk02cs0SoemapG4Bn93-f1IoNT63VaOn9NAW36GIBCvZgt1V-imgwokP-sD5fOFsBBoelFpUqIOdo1ikoPhI9fKTJOW0sJR/s1600/April20th+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj25y9cU7ml8KvT-njIji0L4eZF3EXQ9eXYO8eTgMYxsoDS2sk02cs0SoemapG4Bn93-f1IoNT63VaOn9NAW36GIBCvZgt1V-imgwokP-sD5fOFsBBoelFpUqIOdo1ikoPhI9fKTJOW0sJR/s320/April20th+025.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> And at only <strong>$15 from Old Navy</strong>, mommy loves it too!</span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcsilUYHza-9F14SORwJIk2wmK-gcjMzrHY8K3CAtDQy4j5YHbnMwk-o__BStXU8gUTvijMA8nLb1cRMU5f2REHORt1Bpp6__7odA-OW6wr9Bs2ADu_57rR_799DdW5PknGpwIGb_fVYU/s1600/April20th+042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcsilUYHza-9F14SORwJIk2wmK-gcjMzrHY8K3CAtDQy4j5YHbnMwk-o__BStXU8gUTvijMA8nLb1cRMU5f2REHORt1Bpp6__7odA-OW6wr9Bs2ADu_57rR_799DdW5PknGpwIGb_fVYU/s320/April20th+042.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> The buttery yellow is just so sweet!</span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZYXfqMrNwWgS1PSgW64sPJv44LzoIMgumodO2UDHBlRplG4gdYv3LaenmlV5fGe2ItowjVe_lWuoMEJns4KGKdny190IN-TLmKBeyQnX4WJxx0oo-QhfeZczakHXZvHvv4UlbXS8YxXd/s1600/April20th+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZYXfqMrNwWgS1PSgW64sPJv44LzoIMgumodO2UDHBlRplG4gdYv3LaenmlV5fGe2ItowjVe_lWuoMEJns4KGKdny190IN-TLmKBeyQnX4WJxx0oo-QhfeZczakHXZvHvv4UlbXS8YxXd/s320/April20th+048.JPG" width="213" /></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> This dress was also a steal at <strong>only $16 from Joe Fresh (superstore)</strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzp5Tt3yNbFZ_Q1TKXg3XX4FLYK6rTTdrd39DG7BQCvqV262bI9Pg-Ncf-5Vg1Iq7Bb6Y_mbYPHEPuEE3KTsfeshS881lZcQMLb37WserxwuwCCRgnVxSgElXCP9Y1h6WaAMC10m-ekOdO/s1600/April20th+049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzp5Tt3yNbFZ_Q1TKXg3XX4FLYK6rTTdrd39DG7BQCvqV262bI9Pg-Ncf-5Vg1Iq7Bb6Y_mbYPHEPuEE3KTsfeshS881lZcQMLb37WserxwuwCCRgnVxSgElXCP9Y1h6WaAMC10m-ekOdO/s320/April20th+049.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> Joe Fresh is one of my "go to" brands for a bargain. They always have super cute and current styles for awesome prices, and the best part?? You don't have to brave a mall with your little one to get it! And if you don't already know their baby/toddler socks ARE THE BEST!! </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvK_w7jUs0i1vO356tLoHWTefWMOTi6lE4xS_f9VHf1f1Au7HqjQiwLiIY-N-m1ufeRU6W8BZxVyvPxuMvZwGVDWfXxt60ykCQr_wLNmiy2Xw9UGHIQOBXWelCiHdsRXe1hRwkcX86IzN/s1600/April20th+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvK_w7jUs0i1vO356tLoHWTefWMOTi6lE4xS_f9VHf1f1Au7HqjQiwLiIY-N-m1ufeRU6W8BZxVyvPxuMvZwGVDWfXxt60ykCQr_wLNmiy2Xw9UGHIQOBXWelCiHdsRXe1hRwkcX86IzN/s320/April20th+052.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu-fsOAMyM9AtZQvL6z2S4Q2BCkjL2w0mTyCBFEhuSkyyN1-6gfxW6vKls_itxgzGMnjQJQA8cTMA9AfmgjTCS6pXGvz8yN4pD0BiUIN7uzP1p3GZ1jxR1JLwzOBuRA98DFdNAyXnnsPcO/s1600/April20th+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu-fsOAMyM9AtZQvL6z2S4Q2BCkjL2w0mTyCBFEhuSkyyN1-6gfxW6vKls_itxgzGMnjQJQA8cTMA9AfmgjTCS6pXGvz8yN4pD0BiUIN7uzP1p3GZ1jxR1JLwzOBuRA98DFdNAyXnnsPcO/s320/April20th+054.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> This cute Roxy jumper is from <strong>Premium Label Outlet ( In Langley) for $20. </strong>Such an easy summer outfit! The sandals are from <strong>Children's Place for $12.</strong></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXX149jQEI8aFWTrfU4VwIuURldjR4HZnffvSbWO8Lc858KdwgjSETv56CgWN5Jo0-WR5rUxJaYJPo04qGhgjd1bapOLNsTIoq-66m9WHi42yLsuV0pFb4xH_TkihN_YGtkPPiBhjKLJj/s1600/April20th+057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXX149jQEI8aFWTrfU4VwIuURldjR4HZnffvSbWO8Lc858KdwgjSETv56CgWN5Jo0-WR5rUxJaYJPo04qGhgjd1bapOLNsTIoq-66m9WHi42yLsuV0pFb4xH_TkihN_YGtkPPiBhjKLJj/s320/April20th+057.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Does that little knit cardigan look familiar? Looks a lot like the one that mommy has, featured in Friday's post. It was a bit of a splurge <strong>at $37 from Baby Gap, </strong>but it will get lots of use. It will pair so nicely with any of her dresses or leggings and a cute top for spring. <strong>Shirt Baby Gap $20, Jeggings Levi's $15 The Bay, Sandals Children's Place $12. </strong></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3ePDlAufh-puWA8DxjXO2GnW0GGC_b1YwLgKkF6NQv8mJQaTyAg5XBeXmGUjHmfeblJ-K1ws4fyBMBTGMyc-if_7suFIksc14NXycWegtJl5yDrhPNKjtBVbhJTidiZ-_UTUcIwZzAh3/s1600/April20th+059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3ePDlAufh-puWA8DxjXO2GnW0GGC_b1YwLgKkF6NQv8mJQaTyAg5XBeXmGUjHmfeblJ-K1ws4fyBMBTGMyc-if_7suFIksc14NXycWegtJl5yDrhPNKjtBVbhJTidiZ-_UTUcIwZzAh3/s320/April20th+059.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> Somebody is getting sleeeeepy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> So there is our toddler wardrobe additions for spring/summer. If your wondering why she has so many items from Baby Gap, well.......#1 I LOVE their clothing and #2 We had a TON of gift cards from Ellie's birthday. Normally I wouldn't splurge on so many expensive items, since lets face it they don't wear it for long enough! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> For next and upcoming weeks I'm working on some fun stuff for everyone...maybe even a contest or two, fingers crossed!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">-</span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><em> Rebecca</em></span><br />
<div align="center"></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-78411746724568691232011-04-16T01:19:00.000-06:002011-04-16T01:19:42.482-06:00Frugal Fashion Friday...getting ready for spring?? <span style="font-size: large;">Well its April.15th and its still a winter wonderland in Edmonton, but spring has to come eventually...right?! RIGHT?! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> In order to keep my sanity I have started to add to my spring/summer wardrobe...although its hard to find inspiration...maybe I need to google some beach scenes...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Although I am wasting your time whining, things are actually looking up, the snow is melting and no flakes have fallen today...yet. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> My precious daughter met the Easter bunny today, she liked him a lot from afar....up close, not so much. I know I was kind-of terrified myself, what is it that's so creepy about bunny suits?! Eek!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Now on to the goods, please excuse the shotty photography, self portraits are more difficult than you would think! HA! I promise I'll practice and get better.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> The first thing I purchased was a maxi dress off </span><a href="http://www.hautelook.com/index/index/mk/..."><span style="font-size: large;">Haute Look</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> for $45 (55% off the retail price). I've been on the hunt for one for a while, and I am so happy with this buy. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW65WhbdtZOkx8PjcVRj2BS-RkSPi812VY4K-fSVF0LKaF9lcU5kVmNc_04DC6-bITLUvE8gC4i1nKmD5iB3q4ia2bIUyVOjAZ3Qfgg3t1mZQZ-ivnrpcxAkh05ebTD-jPpOLuSw3I6ZXv/s1600/april+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW65WhbdtZOkx8PjcVRj2BS-RkSPi812VY4K-fSVF0LKaF9lcU5kVmNc_04DC6-bITLUvE8gC4i1nKmD5iB3q4ia2bIUyVOjAZ3Qfgg3t1mZQZ-ivnrpcxAkh05ebTD-jPpOLuSw3I6ZXv/s320/april+013.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love how feminine it is, and its seriously comfortable. It has such a wonderful vintage look to it, but will look MUCH better when the beige doesn't blend into my pasty winter skin, yikes!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GNgaelibzkj77pDOusjf68i7G6I7Rcrc6iS5i6UISV9zYNkyWUkwYhoru20OXbfLwA1Y1yEoIdHKedumMYczLdamswnSR_b3t07KswxF9aEAzncRTrgbSUwFngWd2ZEGTucezrCW1Ci6/s1600/april+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="213" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GNgaelibzkj77pDOusjf68i7G6I7Rcrc6iS5i6UISV9zYNkyWUkwYhoru20OXbfLwA1Y1yEoIdHKedumMYczLdamswnSR_b3t07KswxF9aEAzncRTrgbSUwFngWd2ZEGTucezrCW1Ci6/s320/april+011.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> I love how the metallic bead work on top just adds the right amount of modern and glam. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85WMDmBhkCn4VH9sEXUE4GUbb8o41zHoz6jxL9OpjwdCBBtC9T-WcTu1f-SjOB4DjFxG7l8gebUL29O7GPtnbp7jV6cfGkA4twRPXD8nuVBFvnvTY97qNYB0eU7ZE1EOzuaw15utXHCaH/s1600/april+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85WMDmBhkCn4VH9sEXUE4GUbb8o41zHoz6jxL9OpjwdCBBtC9T-WcTu1f-SjOB4DjFxG7l8gebUL29O7GPtnbp7jV6cfGkA4twRPXD8nuVBFvnvTY97qNYB0eU7ZE1EOzuaw15utXHCaH/s320/april+014.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Good for a night out or a day at the beach. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The next item is a pair of navy bell-bottom pants. I've scoping for a pair like these for a while and I found them for $27 at Forever Twenty-one, they are the most comfortable pants EVER!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddctujRNzlgftxDtZyohsdReK34Pg4Cv6CJi-vMIXxBzsbK6ctxQW1X4rNOiJvx0lss3cSNoJrHJKysSqnZ70yHzxikWUjBeFds145NRNS6D7mCno_4NoqoUdRmfuQ63SGUyXge8ER0kB/s1600/april+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddctujRNzlgftxDtZyohsdReK34Pg4Cv6CJi-vMIXxBzsbK6ctxQW1X4rNOiJvx0lss3cSNoJrHJKysSqnZ70yHzxikWUjBeFds145NRNS6D7mCno_4NoqoUdRmfuQ63SGUyXge8ER0kB/s320/april+018.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> They have much more flare in person, perfect for flats or heels. Plus I'm just excited to wear something other than skinny jeans! Knit sweater $27 also Forever 21.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDM2LMmgSO8S6bBdfrX7wv_pH5BTtZsUXgdeJrlQJ1TDz1Xs-S4CrnbIVFvRnijzKqs0U3ScqrH3XW6ur-lJreGd_YBexxzsltQWuaxspsBqb2PI1QYCCAHpke9WzG4Nx8lUGWTwjUAWV/s1600/april+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDM2LMmgSO8S6bBdfrX7wv_pH5BTtZsUXgdeJrlQJ1TDz1Xs-S4CrnbIVFvRnijzKqs0U3ScqrH3XW6ur-lJreGd_YBexxzsltQWuaxspsBqb2PI1QYCCAHpke9WzG4Nx8lUGWTwjUAWV/s320/april+020.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> There is something about navy and yellow, they are perfect for each other.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HCveBB1uKiAX8pEPt-80ndKcvVvEwbKPrPRZvE7jvhENcP7UDCTqd4GUkCmUn2Yy2qxoWTQHDW9D2-PkAruRthyUozo90osH9kBbGE2splHQeSenlRc6gsn0AqbOPP0m9ySA4Xerivp7/s1600/april+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HCveBB1uKiAX8pEPt-80ndKcvVvEwbKPrPRZvE7jvhENcP7UDCTqd4GUkCmUn2Yy2qxoWTQHDW9D2-PkAruRthyUozo90osH9kBbGE2splHQeSenlRc6gsn0AqbOPP0m9ySA4Xerivp7/s320/april+024.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I also got this gorgeous crochet number from Forever 21 again for $23, I'm excited to pair it with a romantic floral skirt or shorts when the weather permits. Oh and please ignore my new and unhemmed curtains, this is the excuse I need to get on it!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jQbk49wa8Eb-vKVpa6VrpigU8TCR0JdHUZ6-3ZXhbtA1EBN15HmqJC-58GPzJ5ExdUqpC-bv9-Qu4UU3Y9WR2GkCOOClZpeMYjYPIZle97K19fYQQ9NAs39xN36bPE31KxIamsOtLzxQ/s1600/april+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="213" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jQbk49wa8Eb-vKVpa6VrpigU8TCR0JdHUZ6-3ZXhbtA1EBN15HmqJC-58GPzJ5ExdUqpC-bv9-Qu4UU3Y9WR2GkCOOClZpeMYjYPIZle97K19fYQQ9NAs39xN36bPE31KxIamsOtLzxQ/s320/april+026.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">So there you have it! Just a few additions, but I'm on the right track to blue skies and sunshine-y days of summer. I'm still on the hunt for a chunky wedge sandal, some floral shorts/ skirts, a short romper, and anything with eyelet lace!! And man oh man do I need to get back into wearing accessories. I stopped wearing them when I had my daughter, fashionable accessories + baby = no go. I'm so happy that this season seems to be about ultra feminine and vintage inspired pieces...that's my FAVORITE! What trend are you excited about wearing this spring/summer?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next Friday there will be a special little model showing off her new "fashion finds", and they're always WAY better than mommies!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now to sleep....after I finish the dishes....why oh why I always leave them until 1am I will never know. See you for Monday's Mommy Find, you won't want to miss it.</span><br />
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<em><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">-Rebecca</span></em><br />
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</div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-36015127184585928822011-04-13T09:43:00.004-06:002011-04-14T00:10:55.644-06:00Easy, Healthy, and lasts 3 days in the fridge!! <span style="font-size: large;">What am I referring to you ask? Well its Wednesday, and that means I'm going to share a delicious recipe! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Grandma Sim's Seriously Delicious Lentil Salad</u> of course!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I first tried this salad at Josh's grandparent's house during a visit years ago, and I was hooked!! It is light and so flavorful, with flavors you can't quite put your finger on but LOVE. It is Packed with nutrition, seriously, lentils, brown rice, and olive oil to name a few. It makes a perfect side dish or a great lunch. My favorite part about this salad ( besides the fact that my picky toddler will actually eat it! ) is that it lasts in the fridge for 3 days, and trust me you wont get sick of it by then. It finally occurred to me to get the recipe from Grandma when we were visiting over Christmas and I've made it several times since. Enjoy!!</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1 tbsp</strong> fresh lemon zest</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1/4 cup</strong> fresh lemon juice</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>2 tbsp</strong> extra virgin olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1 tsp</strong>. Dijon mustard</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1/4</strong> tsp cinnamon</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>pinch</strong> of cayenne <em> <span style="font-size: small;">Tip: This does actually make a difference on the taste, so if your tempted to skip it (like I was) don't!</span></em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>One 19 oz can</strong> of lentils ( rinsed well )</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1 cup</strong> coarsely chopped fresh parsley </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>2 cups</strong> of cooked long or short grain brown rice</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>3/4 cup</strong> diced red onion </span><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Tip: If your not a fan of red onion or are planning on feeding this to a child, chop them finely.</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1/2</strong> cup currents</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1/2</strong> cup dried cranberries </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>1 tbsp</strong> finely chopped fresh mint</span><br />
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</span><br />
<ol style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, cinnamon and cayenne.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Toss in the brown rice until just combined.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;">Add the parsley, red onion, currants, dried cranberries, and mint. Toss until just combined. serve, cover and refrigerate, lasts up to 3 days.</span></li>
</ol><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlDB_oqOSanD9tg2HFPLA8AU-BcOaEVQ7VfSyR_6wHNrSdXLwY1loyA5P1o5v3T028LPpPYlsAxNBmC2SgzE0mCGocm9RKjz_ALZ96H16ZAbIC0mXH5DmbAKYzNEl0mx-oUyAhKy72XXY/s1600/grandma%252Bgrandpa%252Bellie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlDB_oqOSanD9tg2HFPLA8AU-BcOaEVQ7VfSyR_6wHNrSdXLwY1loyA5P1o5v3T028LPpPYlsAxNBmC2SgzE0mCGocm9RKjz_ALZ96H16ZAbIC0mXH5DmbAKYzNEl0mx-oUyAhKy72XXY/s200/grandma%252Bgrandpa%252Bellie.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie with her great grandma and grandpa.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <span style="font-size: large;">I can't wait to hear what everybody thinks of this seriously yummy salad. Serve it to your kids or serve it at a dinner party, everyone will be impressed, and you can pretend you made it up ;)</span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm very excited for Fridays post, even though I haven't had time to do any of my spring or summer clothing shopping, I did purchase a couple items recently from a certain online fashion/deal website. </span></div><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">- <em><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rebecca</span></em></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></em></div>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-1962593618598158792011-04-11T23:55:00.006-06:002011-04-12T08:33:08.763-06:00The very first Mommy Find Monday!! <span style="font-size: large;">Although Monday is almost over ( still trying to find the right time to blog) the first <strong>Mommy Find Monday </strong>is a website that EVERY mommy needs to know about. In fact I'm pretty sure any mom that reads this will already know, if not I ask, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> The website I am referring to is </span><a href="http://www.babysteals.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.babysteals.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. I began religiously stalking this site in February 2010, and from there I was hooked to getting all my must have baby, mommy, and toddler items for ATLEAST 40% off....sometimes even up to 60%! Seriously!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Babysteals really is one of the very first "one time deal " sites. This is basically how it works, at 9 am sharp a new item will come up on the website for a highly discounted price. You have to get the item you want quickly because once it sells out, that's it, you lost your chance. And with 115,102 fans (and counting) on their facebook page alone, the items often sell out in minutes. They have also added another "steal" at 9pm, so there are two chances you may "need " to buy something....<em>great my husband will be soooo happy. </em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em> </em>As a </span><a href="http://www.babysteal.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.babysteal.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> "veteran" I'm going to give you some insider tips that will insure you always get the steal.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1- Make a google checkout account WAY BEFORE and SIGN IN before the steal comes on, this will give you precious few seconds that could be the difference between scoring a steal or not. It is completely secure and simple to use.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2- Become a fan of their Facebook page. Not only can you get hints on future items but they also have "surprise steals" from time to time. Although there can be some mommy drama on the page, it is a great tool for any questions, from breastfeeding to cloth diapering to colic to husbands!! There will be a momma who has some advice for you. </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/babysteals?sk=wall"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.facebook.com/#!/babysteals?sk=wall</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3- Be advised there is a Babysteals Archive....this means that if you missed an item that you want, you can see if it turns up on there. It is usually updated, and there are often cancelled orders:) </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.babysteals.com%2Fdailydeals%2Farchive.php&h=8234d"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.babysteals.com%2Fdailydeals%2Farchive.php&h=8234d</span></a><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Some of my favorite items that I've "stolen" are, the </span><a href="http://www.signingtime.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Baby Signing Time</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://www.mynochi.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Nochi's Original Blankie</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> Ellie's favorite blanket, and we have LOTS of blankets, </span><a href="http://www.buggybagg.info/"><span style="font-size: large;">Buggy Bagg</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://www.gro-via.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Grovia diapers</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> previously called Grobaby, my absolute favorite cloth diaper, </span><a href="http://www.petuniapicklebottom.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bags</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://www.innobaby.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Innobaby packin smart</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://www.babylegs.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Babylegs</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://www.lilacmaternity.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Lilac maternity clothing</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://www.lollitopsusa.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Lollitops hats</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, and of course </span><a href="http://www.adenandanais.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Aden + Anais</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. PHEW! </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Not only does Babysteals find you the best items for the best price but they also have INCREDIBLE customer service. They will always find a generous solution to any problem with any product...seriously. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Oh is your baby not a baby anymore...well there is a </span><a href="http://www.kidsteals.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.kidsteals.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> too!! Don't have kids? Love to scrapbook? Well, introducing </span><a href="http://www.scrapbooksteals.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.scrapbooksteals.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Now you know! And if you already knew, sorry to bore you! For future Monday Mommy Finds if the item can be found on Babysteals I will let you know.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Enjoy ladies! I'm off to bury myself in laundry and dishes...sigh.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">- <span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><em>Rebecca</em></strong></span></span>Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620762192281244657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1154801005999912463.post-28393867980140560502011-04-11T16:55:00.014-06:002011-04-12T01:52:52.234-06:00And so it begins...<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I have been debating whether or not to start a blog for some time now. I have so many things I come across in my life that I believe other mothers and women will appreciate. Whether it be an experience, a recipe, an awesome deal on a must have baby item, or just a mommy challenge that we all have. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY79CHoOQDEta-I-gq0pjBHdTOx7nz8DZOUlVQtvy9w4bd0QKMuj-rFDk0oiA74JZYXAdrvgHTH4RdI5fhIq9wYUg8zjWJGK_9_fg8MjpjEclkbkmGhcfNKMhhcH9k4-JeWnOrKkDs61BY/s1600/04-11-11+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY79CHoOQDEta-I-gq0pjBHdTOx7nz8DZOUlVQtvy9w4bd0QKMuj-rFDk0oiA74JZYXAdrvgHTH4RdI5fhIq9wYUg8zjWJGK_9_fg8MjpjEclkbkmGhcfNKMhhcH9k4-JeWnOrKkDs61BY/s200/04-11-11+016.JPG" width="133" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Josh and I at our highschool graduation 04.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> I should start off by telling a little bit about me and my beautiful family. I am married to my high school sweetheart, it sounds cheesy I know, but its true! We started dating at 17 and have been together ever since. Josh joined the military in 2005 when we were on a "break"... oh being a teenager!</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Well, we got back together and I moved to Edmonton, once Josh was posted there, to start our life together. As a BC born and bred girl it was a seriously hard transition, but it was such an important test of our relationship. We made it through and managed to form a stronger relationship, and we are truly best friends first and foremost. </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> But there were more trials to come, in the fall of 2008 we found out that he would be deployed to Afghanistan in 2009. That Christmas we got engaged, and in early 2009 we found out we were expecting. We were thrilled but also scared, at the time I thought the timing was wrong, but I also knew that I wanted nothing more than to be a mother. I was the child that played with baby dolls all day long, and when people asked me what I wanted to be when I was grown-up I would say, " A mommy and a singer." haha well the second option was a bit off....</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> I remember going to my aunt's house and if my baby cousin was sleeping, I'd be so disappointed that I'd sneak into her room and walk VERY loudly, cough as LOUD as I could until she woke up, and then say, " Oh auntie!! She's awake!" My aunt took it with such grace, I'm not sure if I would have felt the same!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> My pregnancy was very normal and besides feeling lethargic, I felt wonderful most of the time. Josh doted on me whenever he was home and not away on training, preparing to go on his deployment. We took that summer to spend 4 weeks together in BC with our family before he had to go at the end of September. I knew right away that I could not have our baby in Edmonton all by myself, so I made the decision to have her in BC and stay with my parents for the 6 months he was supposed to be gone. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> As the day came closer, I grew more and more anxious, it seemed unfathomable that I should have to say goodbye to him. The day I drove Josh to the base, where he got on a bus to take him to the airport....I think will be impossible for me to explain. I really felt as if my heart was being torn out, I was terrified and in anguish. At the time I wasn't sure if he would be able to make it for our daughter's birth in November, I also wasn't sure if she would wait.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Well the day came that I picked my love up from the airport, looking like a beached whale....she waited. Six days later ( my actual due date) I was induced thanks to my wonderful obstetrician. I'll spare everyone the gory details, but may I just say....EPIDURALS ROCK! </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Md2VuPIkTU9ETQ_I4KIMUY6gi6hAg_2C2cuZvtCKA-qX8FQBRowJGBEQ_7AZ3b6fhsidkEUdkF7iq2_vUMuh2yl8U5MvTARmiR7WsVbbtqpDu2H9nmYy6a3pC0eFMDv0QHA8RnWFbWp4/s1600/ellie+newborn.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="132" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Md2VuPIkTU9ETQ_I4KIMUY6gi6hAg_2C2cuZvtCKA-qX8FQBRowJGBEQ_7AZ3b6fhsidkEUdkF7iq2_vUMuh2yl8U5MvTARmiR7WsVbbtqpDu2H9nmYy6a3pC0eFMDv0QHA8RnWFbWp4/s200/ellie+newborn.bmp" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ellie, one day old, feels like forever ago!</span></td></tr>
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> November, 19th, 2009 was the best day of my life. As soon as I looked into my daughter's eyes I knew that was where I belonged, that nothing I would ever do in my life would compare to this moment, and that I would do absolutely anything for my beautiful baby. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Mommy, daddy and baby Ellie spent 11 magical days together before we had to say goodbye to daddy.....anguish. It was the most magical time of our lives coupled with the most difficult time. We celebrated an early first Christmas with presents and dinner and fun and sadness on Dec.1st, on Dec.2nd we sent daddy off. </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> I put my heart and soul into our child, and every time I felt like life was unbearably hard and felt sorry for myself, she made sure I was in check. I couldn't possibly stay sad, all I had to do was look into Ellie's eyes and I felt an unmeasurable amount love, isn't love the greatest cure? </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> My husband's time away was much harder, he was not able to have a break for weeks at a time, lost friends, and was unable to contact me for long periods, the longest being a month. That month was a very hard time for me, I tried to remember the old saying, "No news is good news." But your mind is racing with what-ifs. Even thinking back to this time makes me feels anxious all over again.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> In retrospect I can see that I was depressed, I hardly ventured out, I put all my energies into Ellie, but shut everyone else in my life out. I skipped out on any outings or holidays that would involve questioning about Josh or being around couples. I did eventually start going to workout classes with my best friend a few days a week which helped my spirits immensely.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I now see that getting pregnant when I did was the PERFECT timing. Without Ellie I never would have been able to be as strong as I was, I never would have been able to smile so much, I never would have been able to feel so much love and hope. I tear up just thinking of those months, Ellie looking into my eyes with adoring devotion and letting me know that everything was going to be alright.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Josh ended up staying 2 extra months in Afghanistan, it seemed like we couldn't catch a break, it seemed like his spirit was breaking. And in the midst of this I was trying to plan our wedding, not actually knowing when he would be home. The wedding became immensely important to me, when marriage wasn't very important to me previously. But to me it came to symbolize, moving on, moving forward and starting our life together.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I eventually managed to plan our wedding and Josh finally came back to us at the end of May 2010. Bliss followed. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXdbIsdPCJdspA9ynhFU0yTHHRbf0qqXoHx7HBkbsAPy5hggQd_8piIpxybhPHGDK74GOnw2o7faCUfyHf0-aMFClQYwks6_A0sl5fxiQXKszlmVP3UVmEeLhWwQAwN8AYYBZr6SHKmG0/s1600/04-11-11+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXdbIsdPCJdspA9ynhFU0yTHHRbf0qqXoHx7HBkbsAPy5hggQd_8piIpxybhPHGDK74GOnw2o7faCUfyHf0-aMFClQYwks6_A0sl5fxiQXKszlmVP3UVmEeLhWwQAwN8AYYBZr6SHKmG0/s200/04-11-11+013.JPG" width="133" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our special day</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> We got to spend a glorious summer traveling around BC as a family , celebrated our marriage on September 17th, and then moved into our first home all together at the end of that month. The rest has been beautiful yet challenging. </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTx4k9zANVfMuegP6u3ve2bfOqmQw9mQd_Q1Fs0P_OyXXl9nhXL9uN0YE7MzDy5bN6obTKMWUYaIZGUSTBtyCf7HS-d4H5DTKuyFw-2phlvYcPxy3DtjsubLEStftvY-DBvbA07nAjEmCK/s1600/04-11-11+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTx4k9zANVfMuegP6u3ve2bfOqmQw9mQd_Q1Fs0P_OyXXl9nhXL9uN0YE7MzDy5bN6obTKMWUYaIZGUSTBtyCf7HS-d4H5DTKuyFw-2phlvYcPxy3DtjsubLEStftvY-DBvbA07nAjEmCK/s200/04-11-11+015.JPG" width="133" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">together again</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> I am so proud of my husband and so grateful that he came home to us, so many men weren't able to come home. He is such a strong person to have gone through everything he has and still not lose his genuinely kind heart. He is the real deal, I can't believe how lucky I am.Whenever I see him with our daughter, love in his eyes, my heart melts. </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Learning to accept help from my him was probably the hardest transition. Sometimes ( as I'm sure every other mother understands in some way) its difficult to find enough of "me" for everyone. I give 100% of myself to my daughter and that doesn't often leave much left for my husband. But life is about balance and I'm learning as I go along. As my daughter is entering full out "toddlerhood" balance and time is very important in my life. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> And seriously how fun and challenging is raising a toddler, so fascinating!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I hope some people will be able to skim through this novel HA! I wanted to get our unique family story out of the way so we can move on to the really fun stuff I have planned for this blog.</span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Some of which includes; </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Mommy Find Monday's</u></strong>- Where I will be highlighting some of my absolute FAVORITE baby, toddler and kid products and companies ( and how to get them for the best price) and also some great finds JUST for mommy's too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Recipe Wednesday</u></strong>- Do you have a ultra picky toddler like me? Or possibly a Gluten-allergy like I do? Or a husband that LOVES cookies like mine? You'll find tons of easy ( I only do easy ) recipes here!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Frugal Fashion Fridays</u></strong>- As a lover of fashion and a mother I have to find fashion fixes that fit more into the family budget but still make me feel amazing!! When I don't have time to wash my hair or put on make-up nothing makes me feel better than a good outfit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> See you soon!</span><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> - </span></em><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">Rebecca</span></span></em><br />
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