tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51395199780948068222024-03-13T23:04:28.801-05:00Bramell, Party of FiveParty of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.comBlogger558125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-88678195098319627032018-12-06T11:33:00.001-06:002018-12-06T11:48:46.209-06:00Take the Opportunity to Give<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Arkansas Children’s to
support the 2018 Festival of Stars toy & donation drive. I am helping
promote the statewide event as part of a paid promotional partnership. However,
all opinions are my own.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">With the busyness of the holiday season in full swing, I want to take a minute
to offer up a simple way to share some goodness in your community.
The Festival Of Stars toy drive for Arkansas Children's Northwest in Springdale
will be next Friday, December 14. That means you have just over a week to run out and
purchase a new gift or toy for a child who needs a brighter Christmas this
year. There is a particular need for items for babies and teens, though gifts
for all ages are collected. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In Springdale, the collection will take place from 7am until 6pm, at the new
hospital on Gene George Boulevard, just west of I-49. There will be hot cocoa,
holiday music, snacks and special guests for people to enjoy when they stop to
make donations on site.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Our family has a yearly Advent calendar
that includes special activities and acts of kindness listed to complete each
day. Many of our activities include an aspect of giving to others during this
month. It's an easy way to help my kids understand that the holiday season is
about so much more than them being on the receiving end of gifts. We donate to
little free libraries, bell ringers and food pantries during this time. A toy
drive makes a great addition to the list! </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Unwrapped toys collected on December 14 will be
given to patients and their families who are staying in the hospital on
Christmas. There are drop-off locations all over the state, and an online <a href="https://giving.archildrens.org/donate" target="_blank">donation site</a> for those who
prefer to make a financial donation. Here are just some of the things that your
monetary donation can help with:</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In this season of giving, I encourage you to find something that
makes your heart happy to support. Let us all remember others who are in need
of a little holiday cheer.</span></div>
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<br />Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-61456732411070802502018-12-03T21:04:00.001-06:002018-12-06T10:44:55.775-06:00Memory LaneToday I'm participating in the #CheersToStorytelling Challenge with my blogging friends. Now, I know you are probably shocked to see a new blog post from me. Go ahead and pick yourself up off the floor.<br />
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For now, I'm going to share a story about the WHY and HOW I started this blog way back in 2007. I am what you might call a grandmother in blogging years--ELEVEN!! When we started, I'm pretty sure nobody read the blog except for my mother, bless her heart. Through this wonderful world of internet networking, I've come to meet and adore so many new people that I'm so thankful for in my life.<br />
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The original name of the blog was (creatively) named <i>The Bramell Family Blog</i>. (I know, I know.) The blog name is now <i>Bramell, Party of Five </i>so that should tell you a lot has changed. My husband and I actually created the blog together just about a week before our first baby was born. We did it as a platform for our large extended family, who is scattered around the country, to keep up with news and photos of our small growing family here. Oh, if I'd only known then what I know now....right???<br />
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I just took a look back to be reminded that the first few posts were actually written by Lee, which I totally love. We were so excited about the baby's arrival (aka now Big Sis). I'm including the first photo we ever posted, too. It's a photo of our Boston Terrier, Fergie. Sadly, we lost her earlier this year, just shy of her 12th birthday.<br />
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This is also where I tell you that I'm likely the last old-school Blogger holdout in the universe. I have not made the switch to WP, and I'm not sure that I will. Mainly, because I'm not sure how much life this 'ol journal has left it in. My life is different now, I'm different now, and eleven years is a long time. I guess we'll see. Stay tuned.<br />
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<br />Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-37821795248425904262018-03-15T08:52:00.000-05:002018-03-15T09:03:44.134-05:00Fran's Curried Chicken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This post has been swimming around in my head for a long time, so I thought now would be a good time to get it out there. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's really kind of funny, and won't surprise anyone who knows me, that I don't eat this meal. Yes, I'm sharing this recipe on my blog. And no, I don't cook it or eat it myself. Crazy, right?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This family favorite is Francena's famous curried chicken. This is the meal that my husband's mother loved to cook for him. This is also the first recipe of hers that he asked me to cook after she passed away.....and I couldn't do it. I just don't like the smell of curry!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So, this recipe I'm sharing belonged to a very special lady. She was my mother-in-law and she loved to cook. I love that we have a big binder full of her handwritten recipes that we will always treasure. I love that you can see a dirty grease stain on the bottom of the card. I love that we make this recipe using Fran's old, well-worn giant stock pot to boil the chicken. I love that her other grown children also have a copy and make this recipe for their families, too. I love that every time we cook this meal, it sparks a conversation about grandma with the kids. Food really does have some nostalgic power sometimes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In my house, my husband Lee cooks this meal. He loves it, and all of our children love it. I hope that some of you guys will love it, too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The recipe is really pretty simple, and doesn't involve a lot of ingredients. Don't let the prep time scare you off; it doesn't have to take that long. We choose to boil a whole chicken and make another meal with the extra meat, but you could definitely cut down on cooking time by using a deli rotisserie chicken. Also, her version was always served over white rice, but we found that it works well to just mix it together into one pot, too.</span></div>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-69209737607320623302017-10-31T10:58:00.000-05:002017-10-31T11:01:40.548-05:00My High-Tech Day<div class="MsoNormal">
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Technology Summit and its partners, NWA Tech Council and the Greater
Bentonville area Chamber of Commerce. I was invited to attend this conference
in exchange for social media promotion of the event. All opinions are my own
and recollections of the event are reflective of my experience. </i><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I recently attended the Northwest
Arkansas Technology Summit, which was held at the John Q. Hammons Convention
Center in Rogers. You may have noticed my Facebook and Twitter accounts blowing
up with information during that time. This was my second time to attend, where
I was able to learn about technology in the workplace and to share what I
learned on social media.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was not surprised to find out that the attendance for the
event has grown from 400 to 1500; it was obvious looking around the main
ballroom that people were excited to be there. This year, organizers even added
two days to the event, to include a day targeted to women professionals in tech
and another day labeled as a makers summit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I particularly enjoyed the morning keynote presentation by
Michael Troiano, who is the VP-IoT, of AT&T Business Solutions. He shared
some interesting figures that really got me thinking about how technology, and
specifically the internet, have such a big role in everyday life. In our personal
lives, we are connected not only through our phones, TVs and cars, but now we
are able to control our thermostats and view our home security systems when we
aren’t home. City governments are improving efficiency by doing things like providing
some workers with Wi-Fi in work vehicles and controlling street lights.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Troiano told us of a study that says by 2020, there will be
more than 35 billion devices connected to the internet. Guys, that’s four times
the number of people in the whole world! Can you imagine? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p>As I looked through the agenda (online, of course!), I found
it really hard to choose which breakout sessions I wanted to attend. Now, more
than ever, I realize that it’s important for me to keep learning new things to
improve my job skills and be more marketable as a potential employee. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One of the sessions I attended was a panel discussion led by
three women in the tech field. They each spoke about their careers, how they
came to them and how they continue to change. The women stressed the importance
of getting girls interested in technology early in life. In fact, studies have
shown that girls are equally as interested in technology gaming, building and
designing as boys are. Girls do think math is fun and cool, despite the old
stereotype we know. The problem is that at a certain age, most girls decide
that they don’t want to show that enthusiasm or interest in math in front of
boys. One of the panelists said this is a reason that some schools are starting
to separate classrooms so that boys and girls won’t be distracted or influenced
by the other. I’m not sure my opinion on this, but it’s certainly worth reading
about.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I had a great experience at the Northwest Arkansas
Technology Summit this year. I’m super proud that I have so many friends
involved in the planning of the event, and who support the event. I’m even more
proud of the girlfriends I have in the technology field. They are all doing
important work and being strong role models for girls just like mine.</span></div>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-72643624585732537362017-08-08T15:48:00.000-05:002017-08-08T15:48:10.830-05:00Summer Is...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kansas City Fun</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moving Day for Family! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Birthday Kids: Look Who Turned SEVEN!</span></div>
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<br />Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-87291046502882388822017-07-05T10:21:00.002-05:002017-07-05T10:21:42.870-05:00Welcome To My House (sing it)<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">We are deep in the heart of summer break here at the </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bramell</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> house. In a nutshell, it looks like this: school is out, bedtime is late and the house is a wreck. And with the exception of my birthday beach trip, it sure beats the heck out of last summer (battle of the head lice).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As an adult, "summer" has always just meant hot weather to me. I've always been envious of my children, work from home folks and those professionals who get an extended summer break from work. However, this marks the second summer that I've been home with my kids and now I see the light. Sure, it's mostly great, but there is a lot of not-so-great that comes with it. You might be wondering:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The constant slamming of doors as the kids run in and out ALL DAY LONG. It's like Saturday, but every day.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The never-ending demands for food! With so many kids, someone is always hungry. I did not sign up to be a short order cook for three meals a day. Nuh-uh.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Hearing the cries of boredom. Why?! Why?! With a house (and yard) full of trinkets and toys, why is there never anything to do? I would LOVE to be that bored. Cry me a river, kiddo. </span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The noise level in my home. In addition to the TV and other electronics, there are usually one or two extra neighborhood kids over throughout the day. While I appreciate the kids who keep my kids entertained, the noise level just wears me out.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Because I'm home, I notice the chores that need to be done. When I was working in an office, I didn't see the dirty dishes or pile of laundry all day. Now I just spend too much time doing chores when I should be doing work I'm paid to do.</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ51S3tKRUTafLHJ1AQKqkxJviai50JOjzqnQp0WJYXSIcl7e7UkvbfFRQwROGH7PiJLumTv7RSiXa36UmPoavi5Q4qMqmTIbEFpviEdCCMwjojBlIi3ZTETEa2sxBBh3GLKp7Q3tvYhKl/s1600/kids+family+edited+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="711" height="624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ51S3tKRUTafLHJ1AQKqkxJviai50JOjzqnQp0WJYXSIcl7e7UkvbfFRQwROGH7PiJLumTv7RSiXa36UmPoavi5Q4qMqmTIbEFpviEdCCMwjojBlIi3ZTETEa2sxBBh3GLKp7Q3tvYhKl/s640/kids+family+edited+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Family Day at the Bramell house with a visit from some of our favorites! </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">All of this bellyaching to come to this conclusion.....it's summer. If you come to our house, know that it will be messy and loud. But the good news is that you will have plenty to eat and lots of kids to play with. And, if you get too bored, you can help me with chores. It may not be the perfect summer around here, but it's pretty darn close.</span></div>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-73844124586857661822017-06-15T14:23:00.002-05:002017-06-15T14:23:42.747-05:00Wonder(ful) Woman Indeed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We took the family out to see the new Wonder Woman movie this week. As I sat there in the theater next to my kiddos, we were all wiggly with excitement. Within the first half hour, I knew I was going to deal with some major feelings this movie was stirring around in me. And I sure didn't expect that. Now that I've had a couple of days to process my thoughts, I'm ready to share. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">First, I promise no spoilers. I watched enough episodes of Wonder Woman as a kid to know her history, but I wasn't sure how the filmmakers could make it updated and realistic. Done. Also, Gal Gadot was a perfect choice for the role. Of course, one cannot deny her beauty, but also cannot deny her healthy, strong and muscly body appearance. She's no frail waif of a princess.</span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Right on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I never wanted to stand up and cheer in a theater as much as I did during her first real fight scene. Without giving too much away, she was being escorted through the front lines of a war zone. She saw women and children crying for help in the midst of explosions and dead bodies. The men with her seemed cold and blind to the sight, content to press on toward their business at hand. She, however, called them out on their BS. She said, "This is wrong and I will fight for them." And she did, while the men watched, and I was teary the entire 10 minutes. I couldn't help but think of the symbolism, while intended or not, that she represents so many women who keep fighting through BS every day to get their job done. It might be at home, in a workplace or in fighting for the rights of others. Instead of walking away, she fought because she believed. She stood her ground, and that is what I sat there and hoped my kids were understanding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">If you don't know, this movie is about a princess. But she definitely doesn't need a man to rescue her. The men clearly followed her lead, even though they didn't understand her motivation or her thought process. I haven't seen a movie like this in a long time, maybe ever. This is the kind of role model I want for my girls. The entire movie, she said (and showed) in many ways: YES I CAN, YES I WILL and I'M IN CHARGE. She was strong, determined and confident. My response to this? More, please!! We need to see more movies just like this. Women can save the world, too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">After the movie ended, I questioned my girls a little bit to see if they picked up on some of the themes. I told them how rare it is to have a strong, female hero in a movie. And on top of that, this movie has a female director, which I told them was also rare in Hollywood. I don't think the importance of it really clicked with them, but they are young. One day I hope there won't be a need to have that discussion with them, that it will be a non-issue in the world.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I've been asked a few times if the movie is appropriate for kids, since it has a PG-13 rating. I will say that we probably let our kids slide on PG-13 more than we should, but this one is totally fine. There is no foul language at all, and the rating is likely for the war/fighting/battle scenes. This movie gets a big 10 thumbs up from my family.</span></div>
Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-79290914905115698222017-05-22T14:00:00.000-05:002017-05-22T14:00:03.156-05:00Double Digit Diva<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Big Sis is celebrating a big day today. She's TEN!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Actually, we celebrated all weekend with her. We started with bowling with friends on Friday night and ended with a Kidz Bop concert on Sunday evening. And tonight she will get to play ball on her birthday. Sounds like a pretty perfect 10 to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">This kid is wrapping up 4th grade, where she managed to surprise me around every turn. I can vividly remember that 4th grade was my most difficult and worst year of my younger years; I was hoping to avoid a repeat with my own child. Thankfully, we did. She had a great teacher and super friends by her side this year. She makes us proud every day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I want her to know that she's (mostly) a good big sister, she's an above-average student and more than anything, she has a stubborn determination that I hope never quits. This year she improved in gymnastics, she ran TWO 5K races and she <em><strong>finally</strong></em> tried softball, which she is enjoying. Quite a year for this one!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">We are ready for a fun summer before her last year of elementary school. She's come a long way from that shy, tearful baby I left in kindergarten not too long ago. I can't wait to see what she does next year.</span></div>
Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-67964297281908529942017-03-30T09:30:00.000-05:002017-03-30T16:56:53.222-05:00The Future is Now for Springdale Students<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em><span style="font-size: small;">#Ad Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, for which I have been compensated.</span> </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There’s something special going on in the Springdale School
District, and as my children get older, I’ve started to pay a little more
attention to it. I’d watched the recent construction of the new Don Tyson
School of Innovation in east Springdale as we’ve traveled to soccer games, but
didn’t know much about the school itself until recently. As it turns out, I
have a friend whose children, Breana and Tanner, both attend classes there. I
caught up with them last week to find out more about the campus and what it
offers for their family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Don Tyson School of Innovation welcomed its first class
in 2014, but opened a brand new campus this past fall. By 2018, it will house a
full enrollment of 8<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup>-12<sup>th</sup> graders. The school offers
classes and programs that are project-based and focused on the STEM curriculum
(science, technology, engineering and math). Curriculum was developed by
teachers and business leaders in order to have the students both college and career
ready upon graduation, with students having the opportunity to earn concurrent college
credit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our friends are a busy family with three active children.
When the school announced its initial enrollment in 2014, Breana immediately signed
herself up for classes. Her mom laughs because she never even saw the forms that
were sent home! When younger brother Tanner had the chance, he decided to join
his sister at DTSOI. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here are some questions I had for the family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">What is your favorite
thing about your school?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Breana:</span></span></b><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> I like that we have a little more flexibility than traditional
school. We have open classroom environments. We also get to travel to the
junior high and high school </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">for activities like
sports, choir or band.</span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">How does your
experience compare with the more traditional school setting?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Breana:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The work is more self-paced here. We have
more time when we need it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">What are
some of the classes that you take?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Breana:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Chemistry, History, English,
Geometry and Entrepreneurship</span> </span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tanner:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Physical Science, English,
Math, Health, Careers and East<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Don Tyson School of Innovation is open to any 8th-12th grade student living in
Arkansas. They offer on-site and online classes, or a combination of both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The school is <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdWevTXpoeLdf6PgXdfazHW5YpSIcqkNzRbgN7MkGzDOMuFfg/viewform?c=0&w=1">currently enrolling</a> for next
fall. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I know that I will be keeping my eye on the Don Tyson School of
Innovation as an option for my kids in the future. I especially like that it
offers the STEM focus, with fun areas of study like robotics and drone piloting. To
find out more about the school, visit their <a href="http://soisdale.org/">website</a>. </span></span></div>
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* <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Photos provided by Don Tyson School of Innovation</span></div>
Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-311111131307941372017-02-27T11:39:00.001-06:002017-02-27T11:40:20.212-06:00Can We Talk About...<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">...<strong>spring pictures at school?</strong></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Seriously, this has got to be one of the most stressful times for a mama. Tomorrow is our picture day and none of my children have pants that cover their ankles! Fall pictures aren't that bad because the clothes are new and still fit. Fast forward to late in the school year and growth spurts have kicked in. It wouldn't matter so much if they were only doing yearbook photos, but they are also taking class photos. I'm heading to the store this afternoon to buy Boy Twin some jeans because Lord knows if I don't, then he'll be sitting in the front row with his pants up to his shins for all the world to see. The girls will be wearing dresses because I don't have the time, energy or cash for a shopping spree right now. Anyone feel my pain? And don't even get me started on why they even take school pictures <em>twice a year! </em>Why?</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><strong>...packing lunch boxes?</strong></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Totally over it. I'm tired of packing them and they're tired of eating them. They don't want anything we have in the cabinet, except for chips.</span></li>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">...everyone's favorite little Boston Terrier, Fergie?</span></strong><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">You know how they say old dogs can't learn new tricks? Well, ours can! Lee has taught her what "kitty-cat" means. She will now run to the front window and prop her paws on the windowsill to look for the neighborhood cat. Our usually non-barker will also bark her head off when looking for the "kitty-cat." It's really funny.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><strong>...kids that are growing up too fast?</strong></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">In light of the above mentioned growth spurt, Big Sis has asked that I take her shopping at Aeropostale. I blame You Tube. No more Children's Place for that girl, I guess. Sigh.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><strong>...Girl Scout cookies?</strong></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I was so excited that my girls wanted to join a troop this year! Yay! However, now I'm on the hook for delivering over 260 boxes of cookies next week. I suddenly realize how my mama felt all those years with mountains of cookie boxes stacked in our dining room. Oops.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I'm sure there are more things I'd like to rant about, but that's all the time I have now. Let me know what's on your mind, maybe we can do a collaborative list. In the meantime, you can look at these cute, growing kids of mine.</span><br />
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-12757232728528694892017-02-21T11:15:00.003-06:002017-02-21T11:15:29.254-06:00Twin Tuesday: A Tale of Two Breakfasts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Even though these two shared a tight living space for nearly nine months, that's where most of the similarity ends. From the beginning, they have had their own quirks and habits that make them special.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">For example, Girl Twin has always been the boss--and that hasn't changed. She could tell her brother what to do (and he'd do it), even before she could talk! Boy Twin has always been the more expressive one--fussing, crying or needing attention--where she reeks of quiet mischief. Remember, she's the one who has always been a hoarder of food and hider of things in the house. To this day, if something is missing, we all ask sister where she put it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">There is something else about them that made me chuckle the other day--their breakfast habits! I know, such an odd thing to notice. Girl Twin likes her breakfast. When the kids wake up, I usually go through the list of breakfast options for them: cereal, waffles, toast, fruit or Pop Tarts. Girl Twin likes her breakfast so much that she can't choose just one! She will often ask for cereal AND toast, or cereal AND a waffle. This may be one reason why I can't keep her in clothes that fit!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Boy Twin, on the other hand, can take it or leave it when it comes to breakfast. Where the girls want to eat as soon as they wake up, he will often wait until the last minute before school. On the weekends, he sometimes won't eat breakfast at all. You know, those days when you wake up late and it's past breakfast time but not yet lunch time....those are the hardest for Boy Twin. This happened one recent Saturday, where he didn't want breakfast when he got up. However, when it was time for me to make lunch, he freaked out. "But I didn't have breakfast yet," he cried. I told him that it was OK to skip breakfast and just go straight to lunch food. NO! He wasn't having any of that! So, at 11:30am, he had to eat a bowl of cereal before he would eat the lunch I made. Isn't that quirky? Truth be told, he gets that from his daddy. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Do you know anyone with breakfast quirks, or is it just a Bramell thing? You should know that as I write this, Lee is eating a bowl of cereal at 11:05am. See? I told you he gets it from his dad.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span>Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-18963207589566316662017-01-17T09:30:00.000-06:002017-01-17T09:30:12.661-06:00Twin Tuesday: Feel The Love<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">These two. I swear, sometimes I want to strangle them. Other times I want to put them in my pocket and keep them there forever. Just like any siblings, they fight and bicker a lot. They also love as fiercely as they fight; I suppose that's a good thing. One day they will realize just how lucky they are.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">The other night, Boy Twin must have been doing some deep thinking during bath time. He came out into the living room and this happened:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Him: Mom, can twins be married?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Him: Yes. Can me and Girl Twin get married?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Me: No, baby. You cannot marry each other; you will grow up and find different people to marry.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I love his innocence. I love his heart. And I love that I have to repeatedly tell him that he can't marry his sister. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span>Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-58837912879783542232017-01-09T14:36:00.003-06:002017-01-09T14:38:03.714-06:00Recap and Reset: Hello 2017!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Happy New Year! As usual, I get refreshed after the holiday rush and feel like blogging again. The cobwebs are gone and I'm ready to face 2017; I mean, it's got to be better than 2016, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Since October, I've been participating in a (mostly) daily exercise in practicing gratitude with one of my friends from <a href="http://arkansaswomenbloggers.com/">Arkansas Women Bloggers</a>. How does that work? We exchange a daily email with a list of three items that we are thankful for that day. I tell you, I think it's really helped me keep things in perspective. Where I used to get down and angry about things, I'm now trying to stay focused on even the small, happy moments in every day. They are there, I promise. Sometimes you just have to look deep for them. I highly recommend having a gratitude partner and giving this exercise a try.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">In December, I set a physical challenge for myself. I set a goal to walk at least 25 miles for the month--and I DID IT--thanks to inspiration from my friend Alicia at <a href="http://simplewordsbya.com/">Simple Words By A</a>, who has been smashing her own mileage goals. Because of the mild weather, I was able to do a lot of outside walking. On the cold days, I walked inside to my Leslie Sansone DVD.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">The kiddos enjoyed their long break from school, no doubt. We spent a lot of time cooking, watching Christmas movies and crafting. <em>Lots and lots of crafting.</em> It's funny, actually. Big Sis is at that age where she wants to try ALL THE CRAFTS. We dabbled in coloring, painting, making rubber band bracelets, bead bracelets, latch hook, finger knitting scarves and cross-stitching over the break. Add to that list some very basic acoustic guitar lessons from You Tube. Mercy, that girl keeps me busy! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I've also mentally prepared myself for broken bones in 2017 for a Bramell or two. Due to Christmas, my children are now the proud owners of a trampoline, three pair of Heelys (shoes with wheels), a pogo stick and a Ripstik. That is surely asking for trouble, and I'm not sure what Santa was thinking!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">All this to say that we survived a pretty rocky 2016 here in the Bramell house and we're ready to move on. Let's do this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-1327507311731851272016-12-09T09:00:00.000-06:002016-12-09T09:23:49.267-06:00Fun Music For Kids Makes a Great Holiday Gift<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><em>{Sponsored post} Alright guys, I have to disclose the business first. I was given a CD from a Northwest Arkansas recording duo, momandpop, </em><em>in exchange for my honest review on the blog. I was also given a second copy to give away to a lucky reader. (sponsored)</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Momandpop are a husband-wife duo who live in nearby Eureka Springs, who have recently released their debut album. I have connected with Virginia (the mom) who was kind enough to send me a CD to let my kids try out. We've had it about a week now, and played it every time we've been in the car. My kids are BANANAS over this music!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's actually kind of a funny story. My kids are ages 9, 6 and 6. When I first played the CD for them, the 9-year-old pretended to be too cool for "kid music." She said she didn't like it. Well, by 10 minutes into the CD, she was singing right along with the littles!</span></div>
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In short, we give this CD a glowing review. The lyrics are creative and catchy, and simple enough that we were singing along by the second chorus of each song. I personally appreciate the smart lyrics and punchy humor. We all have our favorites now, with these tracks being our top three:</div>
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1. <a href="http://www.momandpopband.com/new-album/">A Week In the Life</a> (the littles' choice)</div>
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2. Roy G. Biv (the big's choice)</div>
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3. <a href="http://www.momandpopband.com/new-album/">Take Care</a> (my choice)</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">WIN YOUR OWN COPY!</span></strong> </div>
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I will be giving away a copy of this CD to one lucky person next week. To enter, please leave a comment on this post. Make sure you leave me your email address so I can contact you if you win. Deadline to enter is 5:00pm CT on Tuesday, December 13th. I will have it mailed to you before Christmas.</div>
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I've decided this CD would make a great stocking stuffer for any kid---it's not too late! I think it would also make a great gift for a teacher, especially in daycare/preschool/elementary school.</div>
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To read more about momandpop, visit their website<a href="http://www.momandpopband.com/#intro-shift"> here</a>. And, <a href="https://www.maxrecordings.com/collections/frontpage/products/momandpop">here</a> is the link to purchase their CD, with 13 tracks of upbeat, positive and fun music for the whole family. They are very active on their Facebook page, so you might want to check them out there, too.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-30433917900067822092016-10-31T10:42:00.001-05:002016-10-31T10:42:11.474-05:00This Mama's Heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Last Thursday, sitting in Big Sister's gymnastics class, I almost lost my mind. I had an overwhelming, uncontrollable urge to just ball up and cry. Yes, right there in the gym.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I'm not sure when exactly this nine-year-old grew up on me, but I just noticed it. Right then and there. BAM! It hit me as I watched her nail round offs, one after the other. My clumsy, awkward little girl suddenly is graceful and growing legs for days. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><strong>This kid</strong>. She is so smart, strong, beautiful and confident; and she doesn't even know it. I watched in awe of her with tears in my eyes. She has the world at her fingertips, and she doesn't even know it yet. Every decision she makes from today forward will shape her heart and her life ahead, and she doesn't even know it. The sky's the limit with this girl, and I've got to figure out how to help her understand that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><strong>This kid.</strong> For years, I've urged her to try new things, speak up and not shy away from talking to new people. I can't really blame her because I was just like her as a kid. But now I know how much I missed out on because of my shyness; I don't want that for her. She shocked us when she told us last week that she'd auditioned for a part in the school program next month. Not just that--a speaking part AND a singing part! Hello? What? Since I didn't have the courage to do that until I hit my senior year in high school, it seems that she is already many miles ahead of me at that age.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><strong>This kid.</strong> Maybe it's all in the approach. I stopped putting my expectations on her, and just let her be in charge of herself. She's doing great in school, makes friends easily, looks after her siblings and knows what she wants to do. I guess I'll just shut up and hold on tight.</span></div>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-80661636229491005732016-10-26T10:37:00.000-05:002016-10-26T10:37:33.229-05:00Do It For Your Family, Do It For Yourself....Just Do It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">October is national Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As many of you know, I worked for the American Cancer Society for seven years, so I came to know professionally and personally how important this month is for a woman's health.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Today, let's talk about mammograms. The American Cancer Society, and my own physician, recommends that healthy women with no family history of breast cancer start getting annual mammograms at age 40. Actually, I had my first one at age 36 because my doctor wanted some images on file to compare with, when I did turn 40. I've just had my third mammogram this year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Let me address the reputation of mammograms. I've always heard that they are painful and most women dread having one done. In my experience, this annual visit is no more unpleasant than a routine trip to the dentist. I've never dreaded it, or had a painful experience. Granted, with all the tugging and smashing, I'm sure it's a little more unpleasant for my smaller-chested friends. Bonus for the big-boobed ladies, I guess!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">The whole mammogram visit literally takes about 20 minutes. It's over and done, with results coming in the mail about a week later. Better to get checked out than avoid it and have to find out about a problem when it's too advanced.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Which leads me to my next point. <strong>DO NOT PUT IT OFF!</strong> Ladies, I beg you. My sweet mother-in-law went for her very first mammogram when she was the ripe old age of 70. Yes, SEVENTY! And guess what they found? Breast cancer. She told me once that she never had a mammogram sooner because she didn't think she needed one. She battled that cancer on and off for seven years, before it finally got the best of her. I can't help but wonder if her quality of life would have been better if she'd had regular mammograms.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Here's one thing I learned from my work at ACS; mark your calendar for every October. Start your mammograms now, this month, so you will never forget. Every October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the month of your mammogram. Do it now, for your loved ones and for yourself. If you are afraid, call me; I will go with you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Here is a great article called </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><a href="http://www.cancer.org/research/infographicgallery/7mammogramstips">7 Things to Know About Getting a Mammogram</a>, that will tell you what you need to prepare for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span>Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-44472703242032152016-10-11T14:55:00.001-05:002016-10-11T14:59:14.042-05:00Rockstar Kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">OK, let me be honest here. This is really a "back to school" post, but it's mid-October, and that would just be embarrassing at this point.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So, let me tell you about the kids' annual doctor visit yesterday instead. The doctor pointed out to me that we hadn't been in the clinic since our last checkup in September of 2015. <i><b>Y'all.</b></i> That's a whole year without seeing the doctor. I'm shocked and amazed. Then he proceeded to tell me that people with more kids are usually just too busy and tend to let the kids ride out their sickness. I'm sure I'm more guilty of that than them being well for a year. Ain't nobody got time to run to the doctor for every sore throat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">They all checked out just fine, all in good health and growing like weeds. Then, this happened.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Before the appointment, I talked to them about the flu shot. In the past, they've always gotten the flu mist, but I knew that our clinic was no longer going to offer that option. Only the needle. So, I explained the vaccine--I gave them the pros and cons. I didn't take a position and let them make their own choice. By the time we got there, Big Sis and Boy Twin were on board with the shot. Surprisingly, Girl Twin conceded by the end of the appointment. They all chose to get the shot--without my encouragement---on their own. The doctor, nurses and I were all shocked. They took the shots like champs and never even flinched.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Now, if it will just do its job we'll all be happy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And here are those first day of school pictures that I promised, from August. :)</span></div>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-68154704457671266102016-09-27T19:01:00.001-05:002016-09-27T19:01:21.020-05:00Twin Tuesday Returns!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Twin Tuesday is here again! Isn't it great?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The kids turned six over the summer and are in the full-swing of first grade now. Which reminds me....I owe you a birthday post and a first day of school post. Since this is how my kids will have a record of their past, I don't want to forget these important ones. Did you know that I print out a book each year from the blog? It's my version of their memory books, that they will have to keep (or burn) when they are all grown up. But I digress...</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">He's playing soccer and coach pitch baseball this fall--and doing great at both! We are so proud of him and how hard he tries at both sports. He is not ready yet to choose one over the other, so we are hanging in there for both.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Oh, this girl is a hoot! Every day I find a selfie or a video on my phone that she's made. She is telling jokes or giggling all the time. It's funny that she's so happy because she was such a cranky toddler. (shhh!)</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This one totally goes to school for the social life. She doesn't tell us much about her day, usually. We have to find out from her teacher that she had to move seats for talking in class! She loves her friends so much, and wants to be friends with everyone.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">She is back in gymnastics and still loving it. Again, maybe for the social activity. But she is making great progress, too.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is my favorite photo of them from our beach vacay this summer. Also, another post I need to do.</span></div>
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<br />Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-44189656681444002122016-09-21T14:13:00.001-05:002016-09-21T14:50:54.066-05:00Helloooooo!<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Well, hi there! Look who's come out of the fog>>>>>>>ME! It sure has been a while, and I'm ready to dust off the cobwebs and blog again. Pardon me, but I've been in a bit of a funk lately. Ten months of being unemployed tends to do that to a person, I guess. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">If I'm being totally honest here, I've just been down. I don't want to write when I'm down, and there's been nothing worth writing about. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I spent the last 10 months applying for, and being rejected from, more jobs than I can count. I'm not joking. I quit counting after 45. I sat through interviews that I thought I nailed, only to find out they hired "a candidate better qualified for the job." Friends, through my top-notch investigative skills, I can tell you that means someone younger and prettier (and, in several cases, with less experience). Yes, I have hit middle age. Yes, it sucks. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">In the meantime, I did a lot of substitute teaching to keep my mind sharp. I fell in love with some Pre-K kids that I colored with, read stories to and helped put together puzzles. I got lots of hugs, high fives and beautiful artwork given to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I also got to spend all summer with my own children! When has that ever happened? NEVER. I'd like to say it was glorious, and it mostly was, but the summer of 2016 was not our best. I can sum it up with two words, basically: HEAD LICE. Y'all. It was awful. For 30 days, yes <b>THIRTY</b>, we washed, combed and picked for hours and hours. All three kids and myself were infected. We cancelled a lot of summer plans, sleepovers and play dates. It pretty much sucked. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">There were some bright parts of the summer---vacation--that I'll share in another post. But, mostly, our summer was a bummer. Alas, blogging was not to be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Fast forward to now: I have two jobs through contract work, allowing me to work from home. Kids are doing great in school. Summer is behind us, and I think my creative juices are flowing again. Welcome back, my friends. I hope you keep coming back for more.</span></div>
<br />Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-64287663279556441242016-06-23T10:30:00.001-05:002016-06-23T10:34:32.249-05:00The Cure For Summer Boredom {sponsored}<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>This is a sponsored post. I am currently serving as a blog ambassador for The Jones Center, who has compensated me for such. The photos and opinions are real, and are my own. This is a reflection of my family's personal experience as members of the facility.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here we are now, about a month into summer vacation. If your kids are like mine, you've gotten to the point where the excitement is starting to die down. I'm starting to hear grumblings of "I'm bored," and I'm having to work a little harder to keep them entertained. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lucky for us, The Jones Center has a few ideas to help us out. In case you missed it, The Jones Center has been hosting Free Movie Nights for a while, but the June schedule is particularly strong. I'm sure a new schedule will be coming out soon, but here's the one that runs this week, Thursday through Saturday. All movies are free and suitable for all ages. Call ahead or check <a href="http://thejonescenter.net/">their website</a> if you have questions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Jones Center has just recently announced a new activity that is sure to get parents and kids alike excited. I know we are! We've been spending a lot of time this summer at The Jones Center at gymnastics and swimming in the pool. Now, we have a new option just for the kids!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">First Friday Kids Night is a new addition to the activities at The Jones Center. This sounds like like every kid's dream: games, inflatables, pizza and a movie! For a family with three kids, I'm thrilled that it's so affordable to us. It's $15 per kid for the first kid and only $10 each additional kid (price is slightly higher for non-members). What a great way for mama and daddy to enjoy a date night! The bonus is that my kids already love The Jones Center and will have no reservations about hanging out there without us for a while. Speaking of reservations, make sure you make yours in time to save a spot for your kids. Here's all the info you need below, or click <a href="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/50a0000be4b001bf111244aa/t/575993fdc2ea5129bc8e9ad3/1465488381625/FirstFridayKidsNight_flyer.pdf">the link</a>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Remember, if you aren't a member of The Jones Center yet, I highly recommend you check it out. It's a great value and they have a ton of activities and amenities available for all ages.</span></div>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-49773855882883594892016-05-25T08:40:00.000-05:002016-05-25T08:40:02.780-05:00Rest and Recovery<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've just reached the five-month mark of unemployment. That is surely something I never thought would happen. Let it be known that I'm still actively looking, but haven't found the right thing for me yet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Now, if you know me well, I know what you are thinking. You are thinking that I am freaking out right about now, with a capital F. <i>However, I'm really not.</i> I'm really OK with waiting for the right job to come along; I don't want to settle and be unhappy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">What's interesting is that, over the past few months, I've seen a few friends that I don't see often. Each one commented to me in some way that I "look so relaxed" and seem so "refreshed and not stressed out." This really got me thinking about how I usually appeared to people--friends and strangers. Yes, I know I was uptight, stressed out, overworked and tired all the time. And guess what ? Now I AM NOT! I think I needed this break more than I could have imagined possible, and now I'm thankful for it. In 20 years, I've only had extended time off for having babies--and we all know that's no time to relax!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sure, there were some things that had to change due to tightening the budget, but it has all worked out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">1. We had to cancel our scheduled Spring Break trip to the Smoky Mountains.....boo! BUT, we got to spend a few days in Yellville with Lee's brothers and sister, who we rarely see. In fact, we had 15 people packed in the house and shared a lot of food, laughs and funny stories. The kids enjoyed seeing Uncle Rob's animals, riding the ATV, playing with little Pugsley and taking a hike around the Buffalo River. Here are a few pics that I borrowed from Lee and his sister, Dee.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">2. I got to be home for my kids. I've been home when they get off the bus, which gives us extra afternoon hours to play, watch movies, take walks and do homework before dinner. I got to volunteer at their school, help with classroom parties and eat lunch with them, which would have been difficult if I was working. I've been able to get to all the 5:30 ball games without having to rush from work. What a blessing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">3. I hate winter! And you know what? This winter, I didn't have to get out in it traveling back and forth to work. I got to stay home in my sweat pants. So, there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">4. I was able to substitute teach in Springdale during April and May, which helped our bank account and helped me exercise my brain a little. I made some new teacher friends and spent many days with some sweet little pre-K kids that stole my heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">5. We had to delay putting new carpet in the house until later this year, but even that's OK, too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">6. I got to attend a <a href="https://news.uark.edu/articles/34500/moms-on-the-farm-tour-offers-glimpse-into-food-production-process">Moms on the Farm tour</a>, which I've always wanted to do. The tours are always on weekdays, which is hard for a working gal. Even better, my mom was visiting and got to go with me! We had a blast and enjoyed the tours so much; we went to an operational dairy farm and a beef farm. If you are in Northwest Arkansas, I highly recommend this fun, free and educational activity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In case you're wondering, I've had a couple of really promising interviews recently. I'm waiting to hear if I get called back for additional interviews or an offer. Stay tuned! I may be working soon, or I may be spending the summer at home going on adventures with my monkeys.</span></div>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-4414511028004423182016-05-17T21:54:00.001-05:002016-05-17T21:54:45.589-05:00Twin Tuesday<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's Twin Tuesday! We've had a lot of stuff going on with end-of-school activities and sports. We are also getting ready for kindergarten graduation next week...I can't believe the school year is wrapping up! But I'm not sad about my babies growing up; we are having fun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I had lunch at school with these two jokers yesterday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here's a funny. We were getting ready for church on Sunday when the girls came into my bedroom in their pretty dresses. Girl Twin was up to something...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Her: Mama, who looks prettier---me or Big Sis?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Me: Don't ask me that! You both look pretty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Her: Well then, I'll just go ask Brother.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">*Luckily, he didn't answer it either!! :)</span></div>
Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-20871119424317416012016-04-26T15:30:00.000-05:002016-04-26T15:30:21.042-05:00Twin Tuesday<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As the twins are wrapping up kindergarten, I thought it was time to share a few things that have been going on.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The kids went to an "art party" birthday over the weekend--fun!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Girl Twin's sweet tooth has caught up with her; she had four cavities at her last check up. She was a rock star at her first two fillings, and we have to go back in a few weeks to finish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I also love her confidence and her humor! The other night, we were flipping through the channels on TV when I stopped on a female MMA fight. We both watched in awe for a few minutes before she nonchalantly said, "I could do that." No doubt she probably could. Ha ha.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Boy Twin is showing off his skills this spring in soccer and tee ball. His games and practices are keeping us busy for sure. We are so proud of him for getting out there and trying his best! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">He made us laugh the other day when we were snacking on some gummy bears. Before he ate one he asked us, "Are these fat free?" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We are coming up on kindergarten graduation soon and they are both so excited. Stay tuned to see what other things they can get into.</span></div>
Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-86163292286677410402016-04-19T11:30:00.002-05:002016-04-19T11:31:00.075-05:00Hitting the milestones<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Look what Big Sis learned how to do over the weekend! She practiced for two days straight until she finally got it. She even made her daddy go to the store and pick up a giant bag of bubble gum for her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's so exciting to learn to blow bubbles! I remember when I was about her age, I participated in a "biggest bubble" blowing contest at some sort of event or festival in downtown Wynne. I won the contest and took home a plastic bag with a goldfish inside! It's funny how bad my memory is, but I can remember this like it was yesterday. However, I don't remember what happened to the goldfish....but I can guess.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Next mountain to climb? Teaching the twins how to tie shoelaces...stay tuned.</span></div>
Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139519978094806822.post-75388626138161662502016-03-09T13:59:00.000-06:002016-03-09T18:08:42.140-06:00In A Day's Work...<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I just wanted to give an update for those who are trying to keep up...I'm still not working. I'm not sure what's going on, but it's almost comical now. I seriously think that I've applied for close to 50 jobs and nothing has panned out; I'm either not qualified or OVER qualified for just about everything! Doesn't that put me in a pickle! I've had some really good interviews--and gotten some really nice rejection letters. Even worse, I've had some interviews then been totally ignored afterwards. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Anyway, I've made pretty good use of my time at home. Contrary to what my kiddos think, I'm not just home partying it up all day while they are working hard at school. It <b><i>is</i></b> fair.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here are a few things that I've been up to during my work hiatus.</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've been letting Fergie ride with me to take the kids to school every morning. She loves it! She gets so excited when the kids start putting on their shoes; it means it's time to go. Sometimes, we even make a Sonic run.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I may or may not change out of my pajamas before taking the kids to school. Depends on my mood. Hey, this will likely be the only time I can slack off like this, so I'm totally taking advantage of it.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've got two more episodes of <i>The Office</i> to watch on Netflix. This is probably my all-time favorite show! I will admit that we quit watching it when Michael Scott left the office and never finished the series. I think something happened during that time, like I had two babies or NBC changed the night, or something. Anyway, I went back and picked up where Steve Carell left. Gosh, I didn't realize how much I missed Jim and Pam.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On a related note, daytime TV is horrible! What in the world??? After Kathie Lee and Hoda, just turn it off. Apparently, anyone can get their own talk show now. Ugh.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've discovered yoga! I. Love. It. At the referral of a friend, I tried <i>Yoga With Adriene</i> on You Tube, and I'm hooked. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've purged a lot of the excess junk in the house, now I'm ready for warm weather so I can get out in the yard.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've been cooking...A LOT. I'm so good that I've got dinner on the table most nights by 5:30. My people are getting spoiled. One night it was 6:30 and they nearly killed me.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The girls are still going to gymnastics on Thursdays. Boy Twin will start soccer and t-ball this week. Life is about to get crazier.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I road tripped with my girls to Keisha's wedding in Arkadelphia last weekend. Good times: staying in a hotel, seeing our girl and swimming!</span></li>
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Party of Fivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253030241764817983noreply@blogger.com2