tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76566600027231015402024-02-01T21:36:01.677-08:00The King George ChroniclesKing George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-12124651066904188532013-07-12T10:49:00.001-07:002013-07-12T10:49:52.106-07:00Letters<div class="MsoNormal">
Riah boy, <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmxx8fgrY21HVfAM9SeU0OmhY8kl4YWW7Xm8KJdiH2TIttsixSpsHLk56uhsFlfqBakhxyqixJ7tU_Ao0hjlnzco_jwFekGaA59kiSpTiFoEuVwbFj2x6X0yDvcjueqMdOJ-EDM6GGZh2/s1600/_MG_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmxx8fgrY21HVfAM9SeU0OmhY8kl4YWW7Xm8KJdiH2TIttsixSpsHLk56uhsFlfqBakhxyqixJ7tU_Ao0hjlnzco_jwFekGaA59kiSpTiFoEuVwbFj2x6X0yDvcjueqMdOJ-EDM6GGZh2/s320/_MG_0011.JPG" width="320" /></a>You haven’t been mine for long, but I want to know you more
than words can express. The moment you
started to grow inside me, I knew you… I wanted nothing more than to care for
you. I gladly provide you with whatever
you need. I even give you things that
you things you want, but don’t need, all because I love you more than you know.
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I made sacrifices to have you. I endured pain. I chose to care for you over
monetarily providing for our family. I
often feel like your life consumes mine…but I have no regrets. Your well-being and upbringing is my purpose.
I want to teach you all that I can and show you unconditional love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I sit here watching
you, amazed…speechless. Every move you
make intrigues me. You live in a state
of curiosity. Everything in your world
is new and exciting! I watch you explore your surroundings, always moving from
one thing to another. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxQs-uvVGVAfCx6vqoNQLXS1GSqBLZ9nOnXK-lXGRnNXqhc6HLTuBs-WQgiECC-qKzc2EyF3Zt20cAneM82ca0i70Q-2fzUEkddGQoZE9O_ROSQa6PC9-x1emsfQ5CCl61_huQ2FlK7kq/s1600/_MG_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxQs-uvVGVAfCx6vqoNQLXS1GSqBLZ9nOnXK-lXGRnNXqhc6HLTuBs-WQgiECC-qKzc2EyF3Zt20cAneM82ca0i70Q-2fzUEkddGQoZE9O_ROSQa6PC9-x1emsfQ5CCl61_huQ2FlK7kq/s320/_MG_0002.JPG" width="320" /></a>Something catches your eye.
You move towards it only to be scorned by my gentle voice telling you
“no”. You hear me, but you continue on
your path…eager, excited. I watch as the
forbidden object hurts you. You fall to
the ground, tears in your eyes. You see
me in the distance and come crawling towards the one who gives you
security. I, feeling overwhelmed with
sadness by your pain, comfort and love you, wishing you would have listened and
obeyed to avoid this moment. I press on,
hoping you have learned from your mistake and will choose to listen to me in
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You, my child, will always be loved by me. You may hurt me sometimes, or even turn your
back on me, but my love for you will not change. You bring be so much joy! When you come to me
with open arms, my heart is overwhelmed with gladness! I want to be your
shoulder to cry on, your voice of reason in times of trouble, and your cheerleader
in moments of victory! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Mama <o:p></o:p></div>
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My mom wrote me a journal when she was diagnosed with
cancer, and it has now become a precious keepsake. I wanted to start something similar for Riah
that told his birth story and certain lessons I have learned through raising him. I was watching him play a few days ago and decided
to write him my thought in this letter to show him how much I enjoy being his
mother. As I was writing, I realized how
much little Riah and I have in common. I
too am much like an infant with God as my Father. I am always learning, sometimes hurting
myself along the way. I can never truly
understand the level of love God has for me, but every time a little bit is
uncovered, I want to run to him and feel His security. <br />
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Being a mom is not always easy, but it has certainly taught me a lot about my
God. There are so many similarities, it’s
often mind blowing! I know I love Riah so much and would do anything for him—but
it just scratches the surface of how selflessly God loves us! I have become much more thankful for Him over
the last 10 months. I’m certainly
looking forward to Him guiding me to be the best mother I can be over the life
of all my children. <o:p></o:p></div>
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King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-67937298563862400292013-02-13T11:10:00.004-08:002013-02-13T11:36:24.855-08:00The Vegan Experiment<br />
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Vegan. The word sparks up so many visuals in my mind. I can’t help but picture a hemp-covered hippie with dirty hair, sporting edible, biodegradable Crocs and protesting outside of a chicken farm. Well, maybe that’s overdoing it, but still, the word has a negative connotation. I have come to discover that the word “vegan” means different things to different people. I know there are many die-hard vegans out there that would go berserk if they ate bread because, “yeast has feelings”. For the sake of this blog, when I say “vegan”, I strictly mean, “no meat, no dairy, no eggs”. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">A week or so before Christmas I went to my doctor to get a normal check-up. My blood pressure read was 143/100, which, unfortunately, has been a very normal number for me since I’ve had Zechariah. My doctor has been very concerned and referred me to a cardiologist. I was so devastated and embarrassed. I’m 24, I work out occasionally, and I thought I was healthier than the average American. I knew that if I went to a cardiologist, they would put me on medication. I understand that medication can often times be necessary, especially with hereditary issues such as HBP, however, I wanted to try other things before making that decision. I did some research and found that by reducing foods high in cholesterol, fat, and salt, that blood pressure would lower naturally. I believe it was Hippocretes that said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food”. After a gluttonous Christmas season, I was truly up for anything!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Let’s go back to 4th grade and set this up in a Science Fair format (If only I had a 3-sided board to present my findings!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Problem</b>: Will switching to a plant-based diet lower my blood pressure in 6 weeks?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Hypothesis</b>: I believe that by eliminating animal-based foods from my diet, and incorporating exercise, that my blood pressure with stabilize without the help of western medicine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Control</b>: eliminate meat, eggs, dairy, and as much refined sugar and processed foods as possible from my current diet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Method/recipes</b>: I started out really frightened by the thought of not cooking with meat or dairy. The first week was definitely the hardest! I spent a lot of time planning what food I would eat for the following day. Nick decided to be supportive and just did the “no meat” portion of the experiment—this was really helpful for me! I found Pinterest to be my biggest ally in this adventure. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Here are some of my favorite recipes (I am not great at food photography, so please don't let that discourage you from trying the recipe): </span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818;">1. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/vegetable-lime-chickpea-chili/">Vegetable Lime Chickpea Chili</a> *pictured></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818;">2. </span><a href="http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/bean-enchiladas"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Bean Enchiladas</span></a><b><span style="color: #181818;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgUjMJ1ix3Tjl7eupUS8R71_fKM3mUJP2NeZl4rRW5EoEUBVcM89YzwRdn8FO2boYsZ1NkwBaoKdLhC9iFjpx7zINnhBECE9tRRaeUihvzIBg2t5Cy8Whmvcq3JYPInI8t28WEw-HynWA/s1600/IMG_0796%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgUjMJ1ix3Tjl7eupUS8R71_fKM3mUJP2NeZl4rRW5EoEUBVcM89YzwRdn8FO2boYsZ1NkwBaoKdLhC9iFjpx7zINnhBECE9tRRaeUihvzIBg2t5Cy8Whmvcq3JYPInI8t28WEw-HynWA/s320/IMG_0796%255B1%255D.JPG" width="239" /></a><span style="color: #181818;">3. </span><a href="http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2012/11/lentil-soup-with-coriander-and-cumin.html"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Lentil Soup</span></a><span style="color: #181818;"> (Nick was not so
much a fan of this one-but I thought it was delicious!)<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818;">4. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://thym-thym.blogspot.com/2009/04/colors-of-spring-les-couleurs-du.html">Kale, Pinto
beans, and Roasted Red Peppers</a> *pictured<</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezFhdwJtZj5zH1gYJ5nToDYIlSPRoS2XHvrr_NarU6-MzfDRf3o1vg49bC5bol8ld5LO68psXtmy52FPdVjBIgVtnSSwjqzCuKpC0kfvv9ScQOQYe0ZG7VqRI4Grsrt6BYPnvNJNH2c7e/s1600/IMG_1085%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezFhdwJtZj5zH1gYJ5nToDYIlSPRoS2XHvrr_NarU6-MzfDRf3o1vg49bC5bol8ld5LO68psXtmy52FPdVjBIgVtnSSwjqzCuKpC0kfvv9ScQOQYe0ZG7VqRI4Grsrt6BYPnvNJNH2c7e/s320/IMG_1085%255B1%255D.JPG" width="239" /></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">5. Kale Salad *pictured>: (no link…Amber, my health-food cheerleader, told me about this one…and this recipe makes me LOVE salads!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">3-4 C kale, chopped</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">1 avocado</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">juice of ½ lemon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">2 tsp of LOW SODIUM soy sauce (optional)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">mash the avocado all throughout the kale (use your hands…really saturate it), squeeze the lemon on top. Add the soy sauce and sesame seeds according to your taste. I’m telling you—this salad will blow your mind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I use a lot of quinoa, barley, and brown rice for our whole grains, as well. When I’m in a pinch for time, my “go-to” recipes are stir-fried veggies, and whole wheat pasta with organic tomato sauce. I basically purged our fridge and pantry of all junk food. I kept fruits and veggies cut up so I had easy access when I had the munchies. In order to get optimum nutritional value, I tried to keep my fruits and veggies at their most raw state for most meals. When I needed an energy-boosting snack, I would eat seeds and nuts (raw, unsalted) or I’d make some juice! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Disclaimer</b>: I figured I might ruffle some feathers with this post, so I want to do a little disclaimer section. I believe God gave us dominion over the animals on the earth, so I don't think that its wrong to eat meat, nor do I judge those around me for not taking this approach-it was a simple 6-week experiment and there are plenty of other ways to live a healthy lifestyle. I’m still nursing, so I was adamant that I keep a log of all my nutrients to make sure there were no gaps being passed down to my little Riah Boy. A lot of people have urged me to eat meat because I need protein. I agree that protein is essential in a diet. </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/How-Much-Protein-Should-I-Eat-165578"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">daily protein
requirement chart</span></a><span style="color: #181818;">, </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I need to be taking in between 50-70 grams, especially on days I work out. I have found that there are plenty of foods outside of meat that are high in protein: lentils (and other beans, whole grains, nuts, spinach, and soy. I input everything I eat into an app on my phone, which then charts my nutrition for the day. I also add walnuts and a tablespoon of flax seeds to my oatmeal each morning to get all those good Omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to nutritious foods, I take a daily multivitamin to help with iron, zinc, and b12, which are common deficiencies among plant-based dieters. So, before you go blowing up my comment section, know that I am very mindful of supplying my body and my baby with the best nutrients possible! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Conclusion</b>: after 6 weeks of staying loyal to this program, my blood pressure has lowered significantly!!!! I have successfully lost all of my baby weight (yes, I still had a couple of lingering pounds). On top of it all, I feel fantastic. I also feel like I have more energy when I run. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Will I continue with this program? Yes-but I will adopt a modified version. I really don’t miss meat that much, but I certainly miss my cheese! However, cheese is a huge source of saturated fat and sodium, so I want to really keep an eye on my intake. I have decided that I will remain “plant-based” 80% of the time. The extra 20% will give me more freedom when we have visitors (or when we ARE visitors), go out with friends, or have special occasions. I want to have more leniencies with myself, but also do my best to maintain a healthy blood pressure through diet and exercise. Although Nick has been extremely supportive, I have decided that my man needs his meat! I will be continuing to cook meals with meat and dairy for him to keep our marriage strong. :-) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">There are always ways to become more healthy in life. This was a big step for me because I have gone through stages of my life where I really didn't care what I put in my body. I was pretty proud of myself when I hit the 6 week mark, because I have no been known for self-discipline. I've always lost motivation half way through and given up, so to accomplish this was a big victory for me. We can always learn more about nourishing our bodies to the fullest! Please feel free to share any accomplishments or changes you've made in your life that have boosted your health! I'd love to be encouraged by your stories, as well. </span></div>
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<br />King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-81010191399897064872013-01-18T13:15:00.003-08:002013-01-18T22:45:04.802-08:00The Juice Diaries<br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hate
salad. There. I said it. I’m sure I’ve stirred a few gasps of horror based on
this confession. I love the idea of salads, but I can’t get passed the
bitterness of leafy greens. I would always force myself to eat one every once
in a while because I know the veggies are good for you, but I would find myself
overusing dressing (that’s a big no, no!).
<span style="font-size: small;">I’ve recently been enthralled with health-food related research and
decided to try juicing a couple times a week.
Before I get into my favorite recipes, I want to kind of lay out some of
pros and cons of juicing lifestyle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cons: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-When you
juice, you separate the sugars from the fiber in the fruit. The roughage bin on the back of the juicer
will fill up with all of that fiber-goodness.
If you juice that day, make sure you are getting your 25-35 grams of fiber in
other foods, because it won’t be in the juice! Some people opt for using a
blender instead of a juicer so they reap all the benefits of their produce! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-For this
reason, along with others, I also do not recommend an exclusive juice-based
diet. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-It can get a
little pricey in the produce department! (Sam’s club is a blessing!)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-Cleaning the
juicer is a pain! Some juicers may be
better than others, but ours has tiny crevices where all the fibery-pulp likes
to hide. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pros (yay! The
pros!):<br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-It’s delicious
and filling! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-Our body is
very smart and “detoxifies” a lot on its own, but let’s face it, we live in a
culture of HIGHLY processed, chemically-enhanced foods (even in unsuspecting
grocery items!), and our precious body could use all the extra help we can give it. “Jesus-foods”, as I like to call them
(plants, plants, plants!), are great at detoxifying a lot of chemicals we
ingest other places. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-The
nutritional benefits are stellar! When we cook veggies, they lose most of the
vitamins and minerals our bodies need, so juicing allows us to JAM PACK all
these nutrients into one delicious glass. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-You can get
your greens without the dreaded salad (and dressing-free, too!)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-You also
digest juice a lot more quickly than if you just ate the fruit or veggie
itself. Your body absorbs the liquid
instead of having to break it down first. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-When you get
all the nutrients from your fruits and veggies, your hair, skin, bones, etc.
will all be in great shape! I’m kind of a hair snob and pregnancy took its toll on my locks-so I drink juice for
vanity! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-When Ri
starts drinking juice, I plan to make it for him instead of buying sugar-filled
juice at the grocery store. I want a healthy, healthy boy! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are
plenty more pros and cons, those are just the big ones for me. When I juice, I always try to add as many “detox”
items as possible (kale, spinach, lemons, parsley, cucumber, cilantro, etc) I
love trying new juicing recipes, but here are a few of my favorites! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Green juice</b>: </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br />
</span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;">2 stalks celery</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br />
<span style="background: white;">1/2 cucumber</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">1/2 apple</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">1/2 lemon</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">small piece ginger</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">1/2 green chard leaf</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">bunch cilantro</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">5 kale leaves</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">handful spinach<br />
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carrot and apple juice:</b></span></span></span></div>
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</span></span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;">4-5 Carrots</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br />
<span style="background: white;">2 Apples</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">2 Cups Spinach<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The above recipes I found
online. When I make my juice, I generally just
throw whatever produce is in the fridge into the juicer (crazy style!). A rough
recipe for my favorite concoction is as follows:<br />
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1 bunch parsley<br />
½ bunch cilantro (its quite over-powering)<br />
1 lemon (1.5 if you like it more tart… I do!)<br />
4-5 stalks of kale<br />
½ cucumber<br />
3-4 carrots<br />
1 apple (usually fuji)<br />
5 strawberries<br />
2-3 stalks of celery<br />
2-3 cups baby spring salad mix <br />
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viola! Delicious juice. It makes about 4
cups, and I omit certain ingredients depending on if we have it in the fridge
or not. Take that, boring salad! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do you have any favorite juice recipes? I’d love to try them!! </span></span>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-40848775905489578102013-01-08T09:32:00.003-08:002013-01-08T09:32:38.167-08:00Lessons of Motherhood<br />
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Yikes… it’s been over 4 months since I've blogged-I’m going
to have to blame Zechariah on this one.
My mother-in-law told me some words of wisdom shortly after Ri was born:
“it will take about 3 months to get used to having a baby and establish routine”. I’m such a crazy-clean, organized lady, that
I thought I’d have normalcy in a matter of weeks. Turns out I was wrong. I am now a firm
believer of the “three-month” rule. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58unrhhPhQdiQKlPVpXQ56sW77A14eL3JsT9YU2yYpTvQL2-J0GA8k2GeXuQzluukGi9fHzWdTbg50T2GvqxQPiJRQzc-dCD3_VfeP8wljdNPHtLGJFWPrbw0-70ktPOaqft6w_zi1Gjt/s1600/_MG_0386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58unrhhPhQdiQKlPVpXQ56sW77A14eL3JsT9YU2yYpTvQL2-J0GA8k2GeXuQzluukGi9fHzWdTbg50T2GvqxQPiJRQzc-dCD3_VfeP8wljdNPHtLGJFWPrbw0-70ktPOaqft6w_zi1Gjt/s320/_MG_0386.jpg" width="213" /></a>I truly believe that at all times God is trying to teach us
something. I’m not always listening, or
willing to learn, but the lesson is there regardless. A whole WORLD of lessons has opened up since
having a baby!! <o:p></o:p></div>
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1. <!--[endif]-->Time: When I was pregnant, everyone said “well,
you better get stuff done now; you won’t have time when your little one comes
along.” I would just smile and nod, and disagree with them in my mind. I used to pride myself on accomplishing to-do
lists…now I avoid them altogether. This
kid consumes my every waking moment…and I stay at home! (I would just like to
take a brief moment and applaud the working mom---seriously…respect!) I try not
to think about having more than one child running around. I may as well give up
on cleaning my home (not likely). My favorite time during the day is when Ri
takes his morning nap and I can drink a cup of coffee and have some Jesus time
(even that get interrupted on occasion). <o:p></o:p></div>
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2. <!--[endif]-->Humility: This is a big one for me. Sweet little
Zechariah was born with a hemangioma (or “strawberry”) on his lip. When the dermatologist told me it could stay
up until Ri is 5, I really was okay with it.
He just has a little Steven Tyler thing going on. Nick and I hardly
notice it anymore. The real issue is
when complete strangers make rude comments. Some of the following include: “what’s
wrong with your baby?” “Are you going to fix his lip?” “Will that ever go
away!?” “Why wouldn't you make him get surgery?” <o:p></o:p></div>
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I really love my child the way he is, and I’m
not going to make him have permanent scarring because the public thinks it’s an
eyesore. I've gotten to the place where I pull the little hood over him in his
carrier so people won’t even look at him-thus saving me another conversation
about his lip (which is not the right attitude to have...) I have a really hard
time showing people Christ when they inquire about “what’s wrong with my child”. This is a lesson I am still learning, and
will continue to learn for years to come.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcC-aXCSGpsTUiWVnOiClkoiRO0CeD8s8zHXnICrwRWl6-6FmIBaiJUSErKqRCKfv-9WvKuleFnvJ5iM0IFQhDOTM6QgacDcsFn0Czt30PAX3q8rBnL7mmRDS4maA6n3YkeaHQc7JYbbi/s1600/_MG_0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcC-aXCSGpsTUiWVnOiClkoiRO0CeD8s8zHXnICrwRWl6-6FmIBaiJUSErKqRCKfv-9WvKuleFnvJ5iM0IFQhDOTM6QgacDcsFn0Czt30PAX3q8rBnL7mmRDS4maA6n3YkeaHQc7JYbbi/s320/_MG_0654.JPG" width="213" /></a> 3. <!--[endif]-->Marriage: Keeping your marriage strong through
newborn times! This lesson was more challenging in the beginning. Your life
changes SO dramatically after having a baby.
You have to learn to love your spouse as the father of your child in
addition to all the other reasons. I believe that spouse should come before
baby. Babies are so fun, and it’s so
easy to make your life revolve around their every move. Ri has my heart, but Nick had it first. Nick
and I have to make every effort to spend time together when he naps in the
evenings. We disagree on a lot of
things, but we both recognize how important it is for Ri to know what love is
through our love of one another. <o:p></o:p></div>
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4. <!--[endif]-->“Where did our money go?” I’m a spender-Nick is a saver. I’m so thankful for this balance! When you’re
pregnant, you think you need everything.
You want your nursery to be as cute as everyone else’s and for your baby
to have all the cool things as all the other babies. If it was up to me, we would have had all the
best of the best items and been thousands of dollars in debt. I’m glad Nick is
my husband, because I look back and realize how unnecessary some things are! Ri doesn't care if his nursery isn't done, and I shouldn't either. God has taught me
that my ONE role is not to surround Ri with things, but to surround him with
Jesus. Ri is my little sparrow—I know
God will provide for him.</div>
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<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> 5. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">You don’t need a mom to be a good mom.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I was reading a baby book when I was pregnant
and the author said something like this, “you won’t be able to do this without
your mom around to answer all of your questions!” I put the book down and sobbed.
I was so worried I wouldn't know how to be a good mom without my Mama cheering
me on.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">God fills in your gaps!</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I've learned to call on him when I’m
impatient or worried about making the right decision in motherhood.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">This has not only helped me be a better mom,
but it has drawn me closer to my God.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I
hope to grow profusely in this area so that I can teach Ri how to do the same
thing.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhte17GctIel8k2NWlJCV0k3a-3fr9ZP6F2WclZ_G3pp0uUxNTEsJVNRxjx2KpftDXZSuwcm2M7Tyo2j5owx7GSvKmjQNijf5sAEJvMzhUhLYlES-3WjyUGArn0AObUfMVNYI7rnk6T2uug/s1600/_MG_0340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhte17GctIel8k2NWlJCV0k3a-3fr9ZP6F2WclZ_G3pp0uUxNTEsJVNRxjx2KpftDXZSuwcm2M7Tyo2j5owx7GSvKmjQNijf5sAEJvMzhUhLYlES-3WjyUGArn0AObUfMVNYI7rnk6T2uug/s320/_MG_0340.jpg" width="320" /></a>I’ve learned more than five lessons, but the baby is
calling! Baby comes before blogging. I know all you mom’s out there have a lot
of lessons you've learned as well! Feel free to share them with me so I can
keep an eye out. <o:p></o:p></div>
King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-76247509651945791202012-09-02T20:07:00.002-07:002012-09-03T08:12:19.429-07:00The Lord Remembers-A birth story<br />
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<o:p> </o:p>“Where are you, God?”
is a question I’ve asked myself many times over the last two years. "I thought you were going to heal my mom. I thought you would keep my husband and me
closer to home. I thought you’d let me
be married for at least a year before getting pregnant! I thought I could have
this baby the way I wanted to." I put so
many expectations on God, that when things weren’t going my way, I surely
thought he had forgotten about me. He
has continually changed the course (my course…) and humbled me down to my core.
With each new event that came, I would
reference the last one to Him: “uh, God, do you remember what you just put me
through? Why this? Why now? I’m still recovering from that last test of my
faith.” I constantly questioned his Will. </div>
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Last Sunday afternoon, Ashley and Kyle had just driven off
from a lovely weekend visit! We had an exceptional time, but near the end of
their time, I was feeling a bit “off”.
My stomach was very tight and I was having difficult time
breathing. I told Nick I was going to
take my blood pressure out of curiosity.
It was a shocking 178/115! I was concerned, so I called Whitney, who
just finished nursing school (oh, and did I mention she’s brilliant?). She advised me to take it again in a half
hour and call her back. No change. Whitney, knowing how “high-stress” I am,
called me and used soothing tones! Haha. The conversation went a little
something like this: “Adrienne, don’t be alarmed. I want you to hold Nick’s hand...take deep
breaths…and then pack a bag and drive to the ER immediately.” I wasn’t stressed. I felt fine.
I humored Whit by packing a bag, but I thought for sure I’d be
unpacking it in a few hours. </div>
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We arrived at the ER, and I calmly explained the situation
to the front desk. They got me a
bracelet and shipped us off to a private room where they proceeded to hook me
up to various machines. They monitored
by blood pressure and, sure enough, it was still high. Nick and I were very relaxed and were
reluctant to call any family members because we thought it was such a minor
issue. We had a dozen doctors and nurses
come in and ask me various questions, and then they sent me next door to get a
full ultrasound. They spend 45 minutes
documenting every inch of my sweet baby, while Nick and I chatted about his
upcoming business trip. We went back
into our little room where they proceeded to hook me up to an IV and told us we’d be staying the night. We
were both kind of wondering if that was necessary… when the nurse casually said
“oh yeah, you kids probably won’t be leaving here without a baby”…. WHAT?! Both
of our jaws dropped!! I was speechless and Nick managed to mutter “but…we don’t
have anything at our house for a baby….we don’t have a car seat!”… The nurse
chuckled and said “oh, you’ll have plenty of time to get all of that stuff…don’t
worry”. </div>
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Finally, we were left alone for the first time in two
hours. We were so shocked! We didn’t
realize the severity of the situation, and were NOT prepared to think about
having a baby so soon! The doctor came back in and briefly explained
preeclampsia. He said they would have to
do a 24 test to be sure, but he was quite certain I had it. They hooked me up to magnesium so I wouldn’t
get seizures from the said preeclampsia.
We were transferred to a different room where Nick “set up shop”. He ran home and got us all the essentials
(even his playstation…). I look back at
how terrifying the experience could have been, and I can only thank God that he
prepared me for each step. I was very
relaxed and focused on getting those results! Even at that point, Nick and I
were praying it wasn’t preeclampsia, and I could go home and keep the baby safe in my womb for a few more weeks. </div>
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After 24 hours, the doctor came in and said that based on my
protein levels I had severe preeclampsia and they would have to do a cesarean section
as soon as possible. A c-section?
Really, God? We have discussed this! I want a natural birth—no meds—no magnesium—no
steroids….where are you? I had done SO much research on natural birth, that I
had no idea what to even expect with a c-section. The magnesium is a muscle relaxer, so I am
still slightly foggy on a lot of the details.
They prepared both Nick and me for the procedure, and wheeled me
in. They gave me a spinal anesthetic and
minutes later, I was strapped down ready for surgery. They let Nick back in at this point. He looked just as scared as I was while he
held my hand tightly. The doctors were
discussing the weather as they cut right into me. I heard someone say they took the baby away
(what? I didn’t hear anything… is he okay? Am I okay??). I started to cry when a nurse came up and
told me the baby was in good health. I couldn’t
shake my anxiety so they gave me even MORE pain meds in my IV line. Awesome.
Even though I was upset, I felt God say “I’m here, I haven’t forgotten”. </div>
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The doctors finished up and wheeled me into a recovery room
for an hour before I could see my baby. I
had that time to mentally recover and hopefully gain some coherency before
visiting the NICU. I honestly protested when
the nurse asked me if I wanted to go see him.
It wasn’t my fairy tale birth. I
still felt so light headed, and I wanted to mentally record every second of
meeting my child. They wheeled me in
anyway, and Nick and I were awestruck at the sight of our perfect little
baby. He was so beautiful. So small.
Such a beautiful representation of God’s faithfulness. As I looked at his sweet face, God whispered “this
is my Will…you have a son”. </div>
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Zechariah means “The Lord Remembers”. Throughout each trial Nick and I have faced
in our love story, God has always reminded us that He is there. He hasn’t forgotten our needs, He fulfilled
them. We have chosen to forget God and ask
for our own will, but He has remained faithful and shown us mercy when we haven’t
deserved it. This little baby boy will
always be a reminder of God’s love and provision. </div>
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Zechariah Alan George,<br />
We love you more than you will ever
know. We will strive to live godly lives
so that you might see Him through us. We
can’t wait to watch you grow, and we will always remind you that God is there,
even if it feels like He’s not. You are
our little miracle. We praise Him for
your life! </div>
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Love, Mom and Dad</div>
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update! Baby Z is back to his birth weight of 3 lbs 6 oz. He if off oxygen and on breast milk every three hours! :) They just put a PICC line in his arm to replace the tube in his belly button. This will reduce the chance of him getting infection, and is a better alternative for his fluids. He's progressing very well, and the nurses say if he continues to do well, we can plan to take him home in about 2.5 weeks!!<br />
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Also- Nick changed his very first diaper (of his life....for shame!) yesterday. He was absolutely terrified, but took it like a champ. :) I presume there will be many more to come. </div>
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King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-28197532994328020422012-08-28T19:20:00.001-07:002012-08-28T19:20:25.520-07:00Baby ZThis is gonna be short and sweet people! Nick and I will blog later about the birth story and God's hand through our journey. For now, we would love to introduce you to our little miracle!<br /><br />Zechariah Alan George<br />
3 lbs 6 oz<br />16.5 inches<br />
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<br />King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-53096290192355802182012-08-14T08:29:00.000-07:002012-08-14T08:39:50.512-07:0032 weeks and Celica post 2.0<br />
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I haven’t updated the blog on Baby G in quite some time! I
felt a little stifled after some comments from nameless individuals concerning “arrogant baby bloggers” , so I think that contributed to my lack of dedication. I’m here to say, lighten up people! I’m
really excited and proud of my growing boy and will continue to update anyone
who wants to support me through this electronic venue. I’ve had a hard time being in another state
where I know no one, so the encouragement and love I receive through this sometimes gets me through tough days. I
appreciate everyone who chooses to support Nick and I through this silly little
blog. On to the good stuff…</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgNxQuj7l76gfDpGf7o1C_TeaVGkfN-XTkEWxxNd1kLGEPSwjFB926gOWAwd1Sn31js7y5eURSqWbKt32AfxNjcl4rBvKN6f3iOD8VRMBiFM8q5QQS6jb-w-efJpriUzin0KcmcEgV_AX/s1600/IMG_1057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgNxQuj7l76gfDpGf7o1C_TeaVGkfN-XTkEWxxNd1kLGEPSwjFB926gOWAwd1Sn31js7y5eURSqWbKt32AfxNjcl4rBvKN6f3iOD8VRMBiFM8q5QQS6jb-w-efJpriUzin0KcmcEgV_AX/s320/IMG_1057.JPG" width="238" /></a><o:p> </o:p><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">How far along</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">: 32 weeks—time is flying.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Total weight gain</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: 26 lbs and counting (yikes!) I
have gained so much faster in the third trimester! Thankfully, I think I can
keep a healthy hold on it and stay under the recommended 35 lbs before
delivery. I got the King family bird legs, so my resemblance to a pug is uncanny! I get a good kick out of it sometimes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Food cravings</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: strawberries, graham crackers,
tomatoes, and Mexican food (its always been a weakness)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><b>What I
miss</b>: shopping. I know, I know…vanity is a terrible trap…. But I’m already
bored of my maternity clothes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Best moments this week</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: I had my first of two baby
showers! My Mother-in-law is really thoughtful and planned a shower for the
George side of the family. I really
enjoyed connecting more with his family and feeling their support through such
an amazing transition in both of our lives! Also, Nick and I started a birthing class. We are really busy from now until delivery,
so I couldn’t get us into an actual community class (boo…I may have cried), BUT
our hospital offers an online version of the class with a lot of great
tools. This is really convenient for us
during this hectic time. I'm praying that its just as beneficial as learning from a tangible instructor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Milestones</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: I’m already seeing my doctor
every two weeks!! This makes me feel like nameless “Baby G” is coming very
soon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIBpT0CimYyfRDK0y9jBJBO7EvmHxQZJqGksJYv0UZLE6kwJ9WEUsuxeVA85bIx6s39g02Lxl4NMTPemWyXAteGBHadXkQmvUqQSspRT4sY5ZeF1wMPGLZg7lRh7Ih0txx2Z-v1DaeQNF/s1600/IMG_1043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIBpT0CimYyfRDK0y9jBJBO7EvmHxQZJqGksJYv0UZLE6kwJ9WEUsuxeVA85bIx6s39g02Lxl4NMTPemWyXAteGBHadXkQmvUqQSspRT4sY5ZeF1wMPGLZg7lRh7Ih0txx2Z-v1DaeQNF/s320/IMG_1043.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">In other
news, Nick and the Celica got into a car accident!! (Everyone is fine, thank
the Lord). Out of the four cars
involved, Nick was one of the least beat up.
He called me that morning and said “well, the officer on sight said that
since my car is so old, it’s considered totaled”. I thought for sure this was the end of an
era with that little black car. Nope!
Nick pulled into the garage and I looked at his car and was like “...why is
there duct tape securing your back bumper?”
Apparently, his car IS totaled, and the insurance company will pay us a
little extra if we turn it in to them-but Nick refuses. Haha!! He said that it’s
still drivable and he will choose to keep it for a little while longer. I sure do love that guy. I have full confidence in that man’s loyalty.
Thank the Lord he and the Celica are safe! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-24918700923657921052012-07-22T14:33:00.001-07:002012-07-22T14:33:25.054-07:00The Little Celica That Could<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my favorite parts of being a newlywed is the “resourceful
life”. I am so blessed to have the opportunity
to stay home when our little munchkin comes along, but that doesn’t mean Nick
and I live without a budget. We actually
are very strict about saving for large purchases throughout the year. This, however, creates a very resourceful
lifestyle! For example, we have a lot of hand-me-down furniture (Futon, baby!),
very little home décor, and our cars are, by no mean, “top of the line”. On that note, I’d like to introduce you to
Nick’s pride and joy: the Celica. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you’ve ever met an engineer, you might be able to
empathize with me on this one. This 1995
Toyota Celica has no internal issues, and runs “better than most cars during
its time (quote from the spouse)”. In
fact, my 2001 Chevy Malibu has the most issues, and has earned the title: “piece
of crap (also…Nick’s words)”. We are
currently looking for a newer car for me, but Nick has requested we wait to
purchase one for him when his is on its last breath. I personally, think the car needs a
respirator to make that last breath, but I will let you be the judge. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the day we got engaged (December ice storm!), we got into
a car accident. We were not hurt, but
the ditch we were in managed to devour the left rearview mirror. This photo was taken on our wedding day (note
the missing mirror!). Nick finally went
to a junk yard and found a perfectly good WHITE mirror to replace the missing
black one. Cla-ssy! (oh! Please pardon all my photos... I didn't think this was worthy of the Cannon, so my phone will have to do)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbYW_GCWWJyZq_X0r8qcUERmxJgnqYMuYHljEQLE3I6TxOkffEH1R9yqLy-y3HbyA7SkG76QJ2e6CzwDkUEb1_fmpmd5Ick64qHh-0nMDqsZ_1eDMMn-33l1hNO_SCRfh-gfCthE2gmIz/s1600/IMG_1013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbYW_GCWWJyZq_X0r8qcUERmxJgnqYMuYHljEQLE3I6TxOkffEH1R9yqLy-y3HbyA7SkG76QJ2e6CzwDkUEb1_fmpmd5Ick64qHh-0nMDqsZ_1eDMMn-33l1hNO_SCRfh-gfCthE2gmIz/s200/IMG_1013.JPG" width="149" /></span></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I questioned Nick about the hubcaps, and he informed me that
when he purchased the car, they were all present, but had since “blown away”. Nice. The
speakers had been blown out by the incessant hardcore music phase (phase?? Is that
appropriate since it’s still his music of choice?) during his high school
years. My sweet engineer found a remedy
for this! Styrofoam-encased speakers, secured with electrical tape, sit on the floor boards on either side to
promote the best sound quality. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Nick was living in Clifton and attending UC, his car
(along with his home…twice), got broken into, and the passenger window was
shattered. He replaced the window
himself (why would you pay someone to do something you clearly could do alone),
and it will not roll down. The sun roof
stopped working a few months back---oh, don’t worry---it’s nothing a little
rubber caulk won’t permanently fix! (Who needs a sun roof anyway? It’s clearly
too luxurious for us!). OH! Did I
mention that the air conditioning hasn’t worked for years? So now, this coupe
has one functioning window and no AC. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The lack of air conditioning has nearly melted Nick
in this 100 plus degree weather. After
doing internet research, he found a cure (going to get the AC fixed
professionally would cost more than the car is worth). The latest Celica quirk is the make shift
cooling system installed by Mr. Resourceful, himself. This quality air unit is comprised of a
cooler, a fan, a large PVC pipe, and a lot of ice packs! Hahaha! I watched him
create this masterpiece and couldn’t wrap my mind around the level of “white
trash” we were stooping to. It was a
wonderful moment. </span></span></div>
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So, are we in agreement? The Celica is on its last breath? Nick refuses to give
up a car that still runs just fine. I
have already informed him that our child will exclusively be a passenger in my
car. I know this will be one of those
things we look back on with laughter and fond memories. I love my precious husband, and I vowed to
love all of him…Celica included. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">PLEASE feel free to share your “junk car” stories, or any resourceful
newlywed moments. I love knowing we’re
not the only ones. </span></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-63733924191114970702012-07-19T06:28:00.000-07:002012-07-19T06:35:24.793-07:00Renotta King Peru Memorial Project<br />
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““Before I formed you
in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you
as a prophet to the nations.” “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know
how to speak; I am too young.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too
young.’ You must go to everyone I send you and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you
and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.“
Jeremiah 1: 5-8</div>
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I have heard this verse more times than I can count over the
last 24 years of my life. This has been
my parents “life verse” that has carried them through pastoral ministries, and
on to cross-cultural ministries. Most
people don’t know this, but my mom was called to be a missionary when she was
in college. God spent years molding her
and preparing her for the work he had for my parents overseas. God then called my dad when I was just 12
years old. The rest is history! <br />
<br />
My mom loved the Peruvians, and recognized that this calling was not just for
her marriage, but for her individual growth in the Lord. She took her job there very seriously. She developed a deep love for the people and
the culture of Peru. In her final days,
mom made it clear that she wanted to carry on her ministry to the Peruvians,
even after death. My dad promised her he
would make this happen. This brought the
birth of the <i>Renotta King Peru Memorial
Project</i>. </div>
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Thanks to hundreds of generous donations, we were able to
contact a dear family friend, Oscar Medina, to develop a much-needed project in
the area of Trujilo, Peru. Oscar and my
parents shared the same passion for discipleship and leadership within the
church community. He and my dad, both,
have been called to train ordinary men to do extraordinary things for the
Kingdom of God. This passion allowed the
church of the Nazarene purchased a retreat center through the funds provided by
the Renotta King Memorial fund. This
retreat center will be used for so many things!! Pastor and wives will be able
to come and reconnect with God, growing in their own personal relationship with
him so they can further benefit their surrounding communities. This will also be a place of fellowship and
discipleship for local Peruvians to build up their relationship with the Lord. </div>
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Three weeks ago, 16 of us went to Trujillo, Peru to start
the building process for this retreat center.
We laid bricks, painted (oh man! Did we paint!!), and spent time with
the Peruvian people within the community.
We also had a day that we were able to go to a nearby church in the
area, and lay bricks for a second floor in their church to share the love of
Christ with the children in the community, along with teaching them how to read
and write. On the last day, we invited
the surrounding churches to join us in dedicating this center to Renotta, and
the Christ like life she chose to live. This
particular evening was so important to my family, and we are grateful for those
who chose to come and work to support this ministry. </div>
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<o:p>Lord willing, we will be taking two more teams down within the next few years to finish the work we started. We want to express our gratitude to everyone who has and will contribute to the Renotta King Peru Memorial fund. We could not even begin this project without those who chose to honor Renotta in this way. We also want to thank the group who sacrificed their time and money to come and do physical labor for a week!! Gods light shined through everyone involved, and reached many lives in the process.
</o:p></div>
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Andy, David, and Nick showed the Peruvians how to play "American football". They really loved tackling and were shocked by the concept.<br />
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Allison was a master at catching bricks!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwLYJ0kyQipIsX0CT8W_dJ9M1aUWp8E06sDrjhntMUbK87jLKnkthtRoKpv3yDqJu93GRwok8WllhjtxidH27SrnU-sVxu6w8BzhQpb5cR1mvAEVchDrhqBE3J0YtTJD3ssmDUv_495Hu9/s1600/_MG_9291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwLYJ0kyQipIsX0CT8W_dJ9M1aUWp8E06sDrjhntMUbK87jLKnkthtRoKpv3yDqJu93GRwok8WllhjtxidH27SrnU-sVxu6w8BzhQpb5cR1mvAEVchDrhqBE3J0YtTJD3ssmDUv_495Hu9/s320/_MG_9291.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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Rebekah and Amber priming one of many walls in the retreat center. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_wngmK2puxkU9ORPsfeXnh9SPmTTT1cATAvpfdS9JlpMl8sIu9nqJ0IQ-zK87HJzsbGB1kY3hDcAsH8IMyyk5XdpzqTgF1p4iyd6_nfoKV4UrpBchbxJNakV5pn1nH7G6ebP1WZcH6jY/s1600/_MG_9355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_wngmK2puxkU9ORPsfeXnh9SPmTTT1cATAvpfdS9JlpMl8sIu9nqJ0IQ-zK87HJzsbGB1kY3hDcAsH8IMyyk5XdpzqTgF1p4iyd6_nfoKV4UrpBchbxJNakV5pn1nH7G6ebP1WZcH6jY/s320/_MG_9355.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This tarantula was found dead outside the men's dormitory! yikes! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSBkBIYbnjXbRbF_TOYRId7J7-EyIBCtagr1okE5NBXBvblJ0a9_A4aAxYDXhJRYjAcUQWgO8emxwcVRSG8BDQDiDP5Wz3lGA11Pgx1r9AVqDc3bohk3LWQ_bk7uA59NHwxkI5kKCs_sO/s1600/_MG_9343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSBkBIYbnjXbRbF_TOYRId7J7-EyIBCtagr1okE5NBXBvblJ0a9_A4aAxYDXhJRYjAcUQWgO8emxwcVRSG8BDQDiDP5Wz3lGA11Pgx1r9AVqDc3bohk3LWQ_bk7uA59NHwxkI5kKCs_sO/s320/_MG_9343.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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Nick and Alex found a little friend<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVEpu2an_XgmrRwd1QDsix1Wzyfcjt9GqOg0WdV6f37T-uXoA4SD_zmfPfyU8q4gUGrojwhO1TTUeanmtSrnh1fwIzf1vG1kMmv7pGm6qsiw_N85yQSlPpaDM_mdoCNbjw_TIZYFkJ_dZ/s1600/_MG_9409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVEpu2an_XgmrRwd1QDsix1Wzyfcjt9GqOg0WdV6f37T-uXoA4SD_zmfPfyU8q4gUGrojwhO1TTUeanmtSrnh1fwIzf1vG1kMmv7pGm6qsiw_N85yQSlPpaDM_mdoCNbjw_TIZYFkJ_dZ/s320/_MG_9409.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The group:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZ38oP9sJz8Z-SkODzPWbdNg9cFurDxeaTCZlcHcyTPl9EWjTMzHT6hWHQESj7JeGRpa1DQi2mgU1lx7fCsPy9QYM3JFJY4ZlvzKnrNtRgjD792UnfARZD8WYkpp2GyRpJLVBH1LSQ4KS/s1600/_MG_9473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="423" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZ38oP9sJz8Z-SkODzPWbdNg9cFurDxeaTCZlcHcyTPl9EWjTMzHT6hWHQESj7JeGRpa1DQi2mgU1lx7fCsPy9QYM3JFJY4ZlvzKnrNtRgjD792UnfARZD8WYkpp2GyRpJLVBH1LSQ4KS/s640/_MG_9473.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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We all fell in love with the grounds keeper, Tio! He always wore that big hat and whistled joyfully!<br />
Below: Allison made friends with every child in which she came in contact. It proves that you don't need to speak the language to show Christ's love.<br />
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The King family was overwhelmed with emotion when Oscar presented a plaque that will be placed the the chapel of the retreat center, dedicating it to the life and ministry of Renotta King. (we missed Ashley!!!!)</div>
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I want to say a special thank you to Rebekah Gernhard, Allison Simmons, and Samantha Meinerding. You each showed a tremendous amount of love and sacrifice by spending part of your summer to be with me during such a monumental time in my life. I am so appreciative for friends who loved my mom, and chose to support me in this endeavor. I love you each very much and will never forget what a huge blessing you are in my life. </div>
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<br /></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-64858739400305927782012-07-02T19:07:00.001-07:002012-07-02T19:07:54.543-07:00Preggo In Peru<br />
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This last month has been a roller coaster! Some of the
craziness includes: one year anniversary, Peru Work and Witness trip, Family
vacation to Lima and Machu Picchu, moving out of Ottawa, moving INTO
Evansville, Nick started a new rotation for work, etc. The upside to all of this exhaustion is that
my pregnancy has been FLYING by. I was
freaking out that I was already 6 months! When did that happen? Needless to say, there will be many blog
updates within the next two weeks. I
thought I’d give you a little sneak peak of our Peru trip and update you on
baby boy George. </div>
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(That's right! This Mamma hiked Machu Picchu!) </div>
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<b>How far along</b>: 25 weeks</div>
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<b>Total weight gain</b>: …I
was up 13 pounds up before our Peru trip—I haven’t unpacked our scale quite
yet…but I’m certain I’ve gained! I blame the delicious food! </div>
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<b>Food craving</b>s: steak!!! Our baby is going to be a mini
version of his daddy in terms of his love for red meat. Thanks to MY dad-I’ve
eaten steak like a KING (ha!) this last week.</div>
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<b>What I miss</b>: fitting into my non-maternity clothes. I have had a lot of trouble finding cute,
affordable, maternity clothes. I’m glad
Nick still loves me even when I exclusively wear his sweat pants.</div>
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<b>Best moments of this week</b>:
There have been SO many great moments, but one sticks out above the
rest. My family was hiking Machu Picchu
with the world’s worst tour guide, and Baby started kicking pretty
consistently. I waved Amber over, and he
gave her a huge Chuck Norris roundhouse kick! We both started to squeal
(disturbing the guide), and it was one of the highlights of our day. Baby loves
his Aunt Ambie. </div>
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<b>Milestones</b>: moving
into our newly rented HOUSE, and visualizing that sweet little boy crawling
around his new nursery. </div>
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Stay tuned for updates on the Renotta King Memorial project,
and on our family vacation. </div>
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<br /></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-73317292253806141552012-06-11T08:44:00.003-07:002012-06-11T08:44:35.840-07:00Anniversary!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkGKH5HznMuNv-0czOJXyGMFjDN87aoB_4YX8nkvhEMiQhF1ok7I5C7SyFOy30y5LrePwC2m6S9PdQ_a3_1NgPsQ1G-j_MF5MQVEdLU7bTVNY-fAzIarSegM7rCWrOTSh8Oz6gy-G7CPB/s1600/0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkGKH5HznMuNv-0czOJXyGMFjDN87aoB_4YX8nkvhEMiQhF1ok7I5C7SyFOy30y5LrePwC2m6S9PdQ_a3_1NgPsQ1G-j_MF5MQVEdLU7bTVNY-fAzIarSegM7rCWrOTSh8Oz6gy-G7CPB/s320/0048.jpg" width="212" /></a>One year ago today I married my perfect match. I have never doubted that he was the one God
designed for me. I can’t express how
deeply I care and love him. I know, I
know…I’m the annoying smitten girl that makes people roll their eyes. Even though I am so head-over-heels in love,
I recognize now that marriage is not all fun and games. <br />
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Last year brought so many challenges. I
was getting married without my mom by my side, and then moving six hours away-
far from everything that made me comfortable.
Life was going to be different, to say the least. Nick literally graduated from college the
same day we got married. We are so
thankful he had a job lined up, but we were both a little nervous about being
so far away from friends and family. The
first month was fun “playing house”-but then the reality sank in. I had not yet had time to mourn my mom
(planning a wedding kept my mind pretty busy), and the shock set in every
morning when Nick left for work. I was
alone with my thoughts for 11 hours a day.
I wish I could tell you I was a great wife who greeted Nick with joy
when he came home…instead; my attitude was that of resentment. I felt like MAYBE if I had my family closer,
I could get through this. I whined about
being in such a small town without any support system nearby. God knew better. He knew that I needed that time with Him to
heal. He knew that I needed to cast my
cares on Him-so that He could be the one to deliver me. This process was very painful, but I can
honestly look back and feel Him blessing me during such a challenging
time. Nick had a hard time
understanding, but God transformed our lives through this process as well. The bond you form with your spouse after a
family member passes is truly unparalleled.
God used Nick as my constant-my rock in a time of uncertainty. I am so thankful for a husband like
Nick. This year has brought its
challenges, but I can honestly say that I am the happiest I’ve ever been, with
the man who surprises me with his love every day. </div>
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Dad,</div>
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I also would like to say Happy Anniversary to you, as
well. Nick and I are both so honored to
share June 11<sup>th</sup> with you. I
have learned this past year that love is unconditional, and you, more than
anyone, have spent 24 years showing that to me through your love for mom. You continued to pursue her in difficult
years, and you stayed by her side through ‘sickness and in health’, until the
day she passed. You two had a love story
that I will never forget. Thank you for
being a dad who teaches his kids through your love of Christ. I hope that my son will see my marriage with
the same respect as I see yours. I know
you’re missing your other half today.
She was the epitome of your “helper”, and I can only pray to have that
servant-like attitude towards my own husband.
I love you both so dearly and I’m praying for you as you remember the
last 30 years of having her by your side.</div>
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On our wedding day, I sang this song to Nick. It’s the same song my mom sang to dad on
their wedding day 29 years ago. Nick-I
hope to live out these words through the rest of our many years together. I grow more in love with you each day. I pray that
I can be the godly wife He wants me to be:</div>
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Lord, let me be his sunshine when the skies are dark and grey.<br />
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Let me be his comfort, when he’s had a long hard day.</div>
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Let me be his shelter, when the world is harsh and cold.</div>
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Let me be submissive, when the rest on earth are bold.</div>
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Lord, let me be his pillow, when he’s tired and needs a
rest.</div>
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Let me be assuring, when he faces some hard test.</div>
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Let me listen softly, when the world is pressing in.</div>
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Let me understand when no one else can comprehend.</div>
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Let me walk beside him, when he needs to have a friend.</div>
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Let me be something that’s real, in a world of pretend.</div>
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Let me sing sweet music, when his hearts without a song. </div>
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Let me be his living joy, each moment all along. </div>
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Happy one year Anniversary, Nick! I love you.</div>
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<br /></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-69405870380308079772012-05-25T11:13:00.000-07:002012-05-25T11:16:43.467-07:0020 weeks!<br />
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Well, I’ve been a blog slacker! Haha! I have friends who
blog like… 3 times a week and I just don’t know how they do it! The last few
weeks have been really busy, but also very exciting! I have a lot of fun, new
things to share! </div>
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Nick and I found out about the gender and were absolutely
floored! We both had no doubt that our little bump was a girl. We even walked into the ultrasound
appointment saying “aww.. I can’t wait to see how cute she is!” The ultrasound technician
was like “Well, you’re OBVIOUSLY having a boy!”
Both of our jaws dropped, and Nick shot one arm in the air and shouted, “YES!!!!!”
haha! The rest of the appointment was a bit of a blur. We both were euphoric at the thought of
having a sweet baby boy. Here's a little picture of him! He got the Baker nose (mom lives on!): </div>
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We decided we wanted to tell our friends in a creative
way. We made cupcakes and had one filled
with blue frosting. When we found out I
was pregnant, I started a journal to remember all the details of my pregnancy
and to write letters to our little guy. I
was so excited Matt Russell got the cupcake!
I can now use the journal to document all the many reasons Nick and I
love Matt! Our son will be interested to
know that daddy was in a band with Matt for several years!! ;-) We love you,
Matt! We can’t wait for our little guy to grow up loving you, too! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysmpfdzlH95-eZ39SvHZ6GWiXI0Q3hKaUL6ZFS7ke73s0fieRFIpXZukIL8GjTIWBdnXMrrzcrQaAU1bp1aWyFzjkUgWpdipyl-fgp0i9wiCp-3iwgJuvkWlgueA4bvhDrcBhDGgNAtfl/s1600/_MG_9139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysmpfdzlH95-eZ39SvHZ6GWiXI0Q3hKaUL6ZFS7ke73s0fieRFIpXZukIL8GjTIWBdnXMrrzcrQaAU1bp1aWyFzjkUgWpdipyl-fgp0i9wiCp-3iwgJuvkWlgueA4bvhDrcBhDGgNAtfl/s400/_MG_9139.jpg" width="161" /></a>So---I’m 20 weeks! Halfway there! Let me get you up to date:<br />
<b>Total weight gain</b>: 8 lbs! So far I’m
on track! This is a big accomplishment for me. </div>
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<b>Food cravings</b>: Rice,
tomatoes, and popsicles (I blame Jen Becker for this one… her influence has
made me love all things cold) </div>
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<b>Gender:</b> BOY!!! Yay!
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<b>What I miss</b>: sleeping on my back. Thankfully, I can still
sleep very well on my side!</div>
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<b>Best moments of this
week:</b> Nick wrote a letter to the
baby—it made me cry (most things do, nowadays).
Also, Nick and I are going house hunting this weekend- I will be eyeing
possible nursery rooms. We will finally
be a little closer to home (God is good!)</div>
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<b>Milestones</b>: the
halfway mark! Annnd buying the first little thing for the nursery. </div>
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The last few weeks have been and adventure, to say the
least. I’m so grateful for a loving
family, supportive friends, and the world’s best hubby (Our anniversary is fast
approaching!). </div>
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<br /></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-34805808434646734982012-05-09T03:32:00.000-07:002012-05-09T03:32:50.235-07:00Memories for Mother's Day<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fvot1mUg3mfUsDs23lqNXtGPbT8WNEWjItgB1Rewaz47QebSp54biY9jCDOviOKIlVqRAeXzY5bITikS4Dwt9unBrRzE9TvBOml3Ewc_ul4nIzfuN2Gr3efkOCA6Ol1fj_YPaLUzKpb7/s1600/momal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fvot1mUg3mfUsDs23lqNXtGPbT8WNEWjItgB1Rewaz47QebSp54biY9jCDOviOKIlVqRAeXzY5bITikS4Dwt9unBrRzE9TvBOml3Ewc_ul4nIzfuN2Gr3efkOCA6Ol1fj_YPaLUzKpb7/s320/momal.jpg" width="320" /></a>Shortly after my mom passed, I was overwhelmed with worry
that I would forget some of her many “isms”.
I diligently wrote down what I could remember in the back of the journal
she wrote for me. I know, this sounds like
an easy task, but for the last year of her life, she wasn’t quite herself, so I
had a challenge before me. Some of my
favorites include:<br />
<br />-The way she could blow bubbles with her gum (constantly), without it every
leaving her mouth! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTg-W7TatXC38riLkKj_VkZvQ-fEZ0Fq9IPZudhB_45oAORx-kTLcG03hGE-pXRQgkrLBJVctTFKww6hIY3bpN6dOpWNZqVduLumH9hR85CPJaKXMzFiXL9AFmVhUipG-ZmwrkVinSx4ME/s1600/momambsbetter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTg-W7TatXC38riLkKj_VkZvQ-fEZ0Fq9IPZudhB_45oAORx-kTLcG03hGE-pXRQgkrLBJVctTFKww6hIY3bpN6dOpWNZqVduLumH9hR85CPJaKXMzFiXL9AFmVhUipG-ZmwrkVinSx4ME/s320/momambsbetter.jpg" width="320" /></a>-Her leg would shake furiously if asked to sit still in any
circumstance (dr. office, church, weddings...she was a hot mess!) </div>
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-Her nostrils would flare when she laughed uncontrollably </div>
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-I wish I could accurately describe the noise she would make
when something wasn’t quite going her way…something along the lines of, “ahrrggg!”</div>
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-How she would ask me to finish her hair in the back-it
frequently liked to gravitate westward</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5E9GcJrbiu2LAKRfM6X8ewaFVVC9XClDMdozyp92Srx6Vn0EPF5sg1OYOWutapoqg0DnGydX3tmXzTNLmI2T3uW6q9GNc45hT0NPclQN_pmWLoqlc1DnpXrkjwr1TW7e4Jki4W3X1YCn/s1600/momash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5E9GcJrbiu2LAKRfM6X8ewaFVVC9XClDMdozyp92Srx6Vn0EPF5sg1OYOWutapoqg0DnGydX3tmXzTNLmI2T3uW6q9GNc45hT0NPclQN_pmWLoqlc1DnpXrkjwr1TW7e4Jki4W3X1YCn/s320/momash.jpg" width="320" /></a>-The little face she would get when she accomplished a task
she took pride in (wrapping a gorgeous-looking present, finishing a scrapbook
page, examining a flawlessly ironed shirt)</div>
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-Her “you’re in trouble” face that she would flash to us in
public situations, lest we get embarrassed
by being called down </div>
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-How frustrated she would become when eye makeup wouldn’t
stay on her face. Haha! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrc-0hRLeF2H3-S-bUacPkP26B3D8d95UjxBFPH-oVD4_l5UTRZEOvoOROacV41kwpyTBjvuKyxPcS1QS7C90Vw8Yblv4cPeaEszokPdf1mgYHt_7mk51t_VZWeaeJGLNyyWTtGDQ2u_b/s1600/momfunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrc-0hRLeF2H3-S-bUacPkP26B3D8d95UjxBFPH-oVD4_l5UTRZEOvoOROacV41kwpyTBjvuKyxPcS1QS7C90Vw8Yblv4cPeaEszokPdf1mgYHt_7mk51t_VZWeaeJGLNyyWTtGDQ2u_b/s320/momfunny.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I know that these qualities are things that only close
family and friends will understand, but they were definitely the things that
made me love her more. She was so weird, in a good way! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpT-bvGMOB4sm2Dl0ovYv7eKtDSA3sYiYKXN6FexPpjtdWUglI1PxV65vjp_Prp2S7x8rWUPbRuVVRDikym5zwdO6szYcmY-RhXLIsEwImqAZ9qZ28nOCUgay5rr9d9Z8rH7q2SDETlUl8/s1600/momlucas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpT-bvGMOB4sm2Dl0ovYv7eKtDSA3sYiYKXN6FexPpjtdWUglI1PxV65vjp_Prp2S7x8rWUPbRuVVRDikym5zwdO6szYcmY-RhXLIsEwImqAZ9qZ28nOCUgay5rr9d9Z8rH7q2SDETlUl8/s320/momlucas.jpg" width="320" /></a>Last year’s Mother’s Day was a very difficult day for
me. I chose to be bitter and sulk in
self pity over the loss of such a wonderful mom. This year is different! I am choosing to
celebrate her: a mom who would selflessly give herself for the well-being of
her children and husband. Nick asked me
what I wanted for Mother’s Day…and the only answer I could think of was an ode
to my own mother. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7CNu9s3ENfINSeTyuORf9SiMpF6nn9cUDEnpJggfau1dRpvZeJksxJnoHAwajb3dqJmPnE-tv1iaFyPmZutWJFPNA5wHbI6sLLjQvD3iuvO86l3knU89otqMDF_P0ESEjIw8O3Hf7G48p/s1600/momgorge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7CNu9s3ENfINSeTyuORf9SiMpF6nn9cUDEnpJggfau1dRpvZeJksxJnoHAwajb3dqJmPnE-tv1iaFyPmZutWJFPNA5wHbI6sLLjQvD3iuvO86l3knU89otqMDF_P0ESEjIw8O3Hf7G48p/s320/momgorge.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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In conclusion, I invite you to join with me in this
celebration. This Mother’s Day, I want
more than anything to read YOUR memories of my mom. I want to share them with
my family and celebrate a life dedicated to Christ. Your memories of her can be funny,
sentimental, from the past, or more current…I don’t care! I just want to spend Sunday feeling
overwhelmed by God’s peace, by joyfully commemorating a woman I will always
look up to. </div>
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<br /></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-16242824177714747242012-04-08T15:21:00.004-07:002012-04-08T17:27:43.671-07:00Little George Baby<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">As most of you know, Nick and I are expecting a sweet new member of our family in October. We are so elated about this news!! It has been killing us keeping it inside the last three months. As happy as we are now, it didn’t start out that way. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">This new addition was definitely not in our plans for the first few years of marriage. I had always wanted to be a young parent, but I definitely wanted to take time and enjoy my husband before having greater responsibilities. We both wanted kids, but had planned to have them in about 2-3 years. When we first discovered the “news”, I will be honest, I was terrified. I cried for about 10 minutes while Nick prayed for us and our future. It was super bowl Sunday and I could not think of anything but the child growing inside me. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> Monday came, and as Nick left for work, I was left with my thoughts. I cried and sat in pajamas ALL day! I had a life to live before kids! I had so many things I wanted to do with my husband before we were parents. Nick came home and saw what a train wreck I was and immediately came to my side. We talked it over for a few hours and I said I would just feel better with another home pregnancy test. As we were waiting for the results, Nick again prayed for us. This prayer was different. I felt Nick’s peace in his voice and words, and I literally felt God release all the tension inside of me. It was a feeling I will never forget. Growing up my dad always quoted a part of this verse and it came to me in that moment “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:7. I finally experienced the “peace that passes all understanding”. Nick said amen, and we rushed to see the results of the test. We both read positive and looked at one another and smiled so big, it hurt. I felt peace and joy in that moment. I can honestly say I have never looked back. I even get offended when people ask, “was it planned?”… or “Oh! So you have a little accident baby”. The truth of the matter is, this baby was planned… long before I even met Nick. God planned this sweet child at the exact time he wanted it in the world. I feel blessed to be used by Him in this incredible way. I cannot contain my excitement to be a mom!! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoxSmrbFKPe-JYVzFWtKjhMmTQEzlc97-GOboMpIvvrrun2L7EGfd4qOJK29ZtyO1Xh0LqcjVWLzVSFqUEQ4sL9awzuKb8yTqnFaxEHVRqRtjcx604G2_vlk92MVPlb1_fWKgRRNULhI7/s1600/13wks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoxSmrbFKPe-JYVzFWtKjhMmTQEzlc97-GOboMpIvvrrun2L7EGfd4qOJK29ZtyO1Xh0LqcjVWLzVSFqUEQ4sL9awzuKb8yTqnFaxEHVRqRtjcx604G2_vlk92MVPlb1_fWKgRRNULhI7/s400/13wks.jpg" width="210" /></a><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I really wanted to have a way to log my pregnancy and keep everyone updated in a fun and informative way, but I wasn't coming up with any fresh ideas. I found a few blogs that did different things, but my favorites were by from some friends <a href="http://www.youmakemelive.com/">Kelly Smith</a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> and <a href="http://thehauerblogger.blogspot.com/">Jen Hauer</a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">. They both have amazing blogs, and I had their permission to rip the idea for my own blog (</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Plagiarism</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> at its finest)! So here we go! </span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>How far along?</b> 13 weeks </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Total weight gain</b>: 3 lbs! (I may omit this question depending on how rapidly I gain. Lol)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Food cravings:</b> eggs (of all kinds)!, Mexican food and Skyline (both of which have not been fulfilled lately) </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Gender</b>: TBA at the end of May. Yippee! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>What I miss: </b>Playing DDR (Dance Dance Revolution). Laugh all you want, but Nick and I play at home and could dominate you any day. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Best moments this week</b>: FINALLY telling people! I will forever have little snapshot memories in my head of friends and family reactions. It brought me so much joy. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>What I am looking forward to</b>: Knowing the gender and seeing the next ultrasound. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Woes:</b> Morning sickness (boo… I’m praying this ends soon), and heartburn! My goodness!! No one warned me about the heartburn-I have such a hard time sleeping. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><b>Milestones:</b> Informing facebook. :--) oh! And officially being in my second trimester! WOOT!</span></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gD6Znfzght9rj8WsrtRMEvCSB-pRwOI-Hr01K5LtlwPzVfP4f3pkoMxH518cdDGDiQMUijYtqIih-Ctac1C6M82AHklTI_sWV5EtfRVOi4B8o38Hp5aFDeqre3YJ1_r984PCQpgSpd8H/s1600/plum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gD6Znfzght9rj8WsrtRMEvCSB-pRwOI-Hr01K5LtlwPzVfP4f3pkoMxH518cdDGDiQMUijYtqIih-Ctac1C6M82AHklTI_sWV5EtfRVOi4B8o38Hp5aFDeqre3YJ1_r984PCQpgSpd8H/s320/plum.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; line-height: 23px;">(Nick wanted to be involved: The baby is as big as a plum this week!)</span></div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; line-height: 23px;"><br />
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</span></span>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-13879739461519167432012-03-14T09:08:00.000-07:002012-03-14T09:08:29.454-07:00Beauty and the Peeb<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Anyone who knows me well knows that my sisters are my best friends. Ashley and I shared a room growing up, had the same friends, and similar interests, so our friendship has been pretty solid since childhood. My relationship with Amber, however, did not begin at such a young age. Actually, Ash and I used to really give Amber a hard time because of her “innately good” status which made her the apple of our parents’ eye. So, my friendship with Amber was much later in life, to say the least. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmh0foiSz6QZ-YXdJh1LFnBcfcdpyqiCZSCMEqg_XD5qx23bzOyozqN5R-1K3Bq1CCUXaGujqR04SS7ncrH35_O4wvLQIy1bpmPpaI331yF-FNa5wEewW6nORlrOSXZeMMIe25UBCHvUbl/s1600/IMG_2215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmh0foiSz6QZ-YXdJh1LFnBcfcdpyqiCZSCMEqg_XD5qx23bzOyozqN5R-1K3Bq1CCUXaGujqR04SS7ncrH35_O4wvLQIy1bpmPpaI331yF-FNa5wEewW6nORlrOSXZeMMIe25UBCHvUbl/s320/IMG_2215.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It all started when we spent a summer in Kentucky, living with our Grandparents. This was an adventure! Amber was a sophomore in college, while I had just finished my 10<sup>th</sup> grade year of high school. I didn’t have a license, so Amber had the honor of driving me everywhere ;). On the occasional weekend, we would drive to Cincy to see our close friends. On the drive we always passed that store called “Peebles”. Being a missionary kid, this name was new to me, and was also quite amusing. I repeated it several times, laughing out loud. Amber gave me the death stare-not understanding why it was so funny. She then started laughing at MY laughter, and thus the nickname “Peeble” was born. We have, ever since, been calling one another “Peeble” as a term of endearment. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">This has become kind of a sick game between the two of us. We have warped the name “Peeble” into any creative sign off we can. Some examples include:<br />
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The Peeb<br />
Peebylicious<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peeby&J <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Katniss and Peeba<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peeb90X<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">And our favorite…. Justin Peeber. Haha! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtPeHJfzkIYM8_8a1br4C3WrHqAaxFRE9j4Wt4WFH6aS3nf-NQjs60YJ96Z-8MjgVhcboqel-nGONEYLCHk3ZRJ1J6w9rsn4rypSWJU9T__4W0LHEneJQQEpRzDyiBNuxgLXVcyPhNz7Ws/s1600/IMG_2207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strike></strike></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtPeHJfzkIYM8_8a1br4C3WrHqAaxFRE9j4Wt4WFH6aS3nf-NQjs60YJ96Z-8MjgVhcboqel-nGONEYLCHk3ZRJ1J6w9rsn4rypSWJU9T__4W0LHEneJQQEpRzDyiBNuxgLXVcyPhNz7Ws/s1600/IMG_2207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtPeHJfzkIYM8_8a1br4C3WrHqAaxFRE9j4Wt4WFH6aS3nf-NQjs60YJ96Z-8MjgVhcboqel-nGONEYLCHk3ZRJ1J6w9rsn4rypSWJU9T__4W0LHEneJQQEpRzDyiBNuxgLXVcyPhNz7Ws/s400/IMG_2207.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Anyway, Peeby and Andy came to visit Nick and me in Ottawa this past weekend. It was splendid!! We had the most fabulous time together. It was so relaxing, fun, and entertaining. There was so much laughter, my stomach hurt after they left. We watched movies, went hiking, and we made delicious food and awesome biscotti! It honestly felt like I was in Cincinnati instead of Ottawa. I just love both of them! Nick and I felt so refreshed after their visit!! <br />
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Thank you both for making the drive to see us! We both consider you best friends, and we hope we only grow closer regardless of where we are geographically. We LOVE YOU! <br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">OH! P.S. Here's a little treat for all the readers out there... We found this website where you can upload your photos and supposedly find out what your kid will look like. We fused Amber and Andy's faces to make this hilarious looking little girl with a perm....</span></div><br />
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</span></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-58276819967977683702012-01-18T16:14:00.000-08:002012-01-18T16:14:58.284-08:00PerUnion<div class="MsoNormal">I feel like it was just yesterday when I was living in the glory years of “missionary kid” life. It’s an experience that is not only hard to explain, but one that few choose to understand. The group of friends I had could only be described as “hodgepodge”. We all had different backgrounds, denominations, and accents-some more distinguishable than others. When you found someone who spoke English, you kind of adopted them as a new best friend. You may have had hundreds of differences with this person, but the one thing you did have in common, was being uprooted from the “normalcy” of the American Dream childhood.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> The kids and the adults all meshed into one giant family. I had more Aunts and Uncles than I could count! I was thankful for this since my own extended family was thousands of miles away and I could only see them every two years. We’d all spend Friday nights having youth group, Christmas’ camping on the beach, and don’t forget our annual vacation to the Bujama beach retreat! I’m a little giddy inside thinking of all those good times!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">My senior year drew to an abrupt end, and my close Peru friends dispersed to various parts of continental U.S. As I stepped back on American soil, I knew things were going to be different. I managed to keep the same friends I had in middle school before we left 6 years earlier, which was a blessing! However, very little interest was sparked of my oversee endeavors, and we picked back up as if nothing had changed. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">My Christian college was used to missionary kids coming in wearing capes, developing new languages, and being true outcasts among the other students. In an effort to shield me from said social faux pas , Mt. Vernon involuntarily placed me in a Third Culture Kid support group (they called it a club), where I was assigned a faculty member to meet with monthly to discuss my “re-entry” into the North American society. This woman gave me seasonal appliqué sweaters throughout the year—yeah! That’ll help me fit in among my peers. I admittedly found her to be more in need of the “social skills” tutelage. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hfgldmP9dCiypbTTtTq60byW5PtiREPTZBzgl0YPWSSvPIV41mTu4DFhzX_2Spe7OCjdNoWLdkPr1-FtmUuJTMq44XyDHx9gEh9oiXQ7Nos8yqZf7jln1Yp4p3kTGvvEIW2t-XZRI7_w/s1600/photo+2+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hfgldmP9dCiypbTTtTq60byW5PtiREPTZBzgl0YPWSSvPIV41mTu4DFhzX_2Spe7OCjdNoWLdkPr1-FtmUuJTMq44XyDHx9gEh9oiXQ7Nos8yqZf7jln1Yp4p3kTGvvEIW2t-XZRI7_w/s320/photo+2+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">I do admit that on the rare occasion I will fall into an infamous “missionary kid” moment. I will do or say something “un-American” and will get slight ridicule from my states friends. This just makes me chuckle inside because they’ll never know how unusual we really were (choash, anyone?)!! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Years have passed since I’ve been in Peru-but the memories live on. There have been several occasions where God has blessed me with the opportunity to see these friends again-at which point, the nostalgia comes screaming back to me! We call these moments “PerUnions” (dorky, but effective!). Just this last weekend I was so thankful to see my dear friend, Lucas Floyd. I’ve seen him twice in the last 5 years, but unlike usual long distance friendships, it wasn’t awkward! We played Balderdash, had “facetime” with his family, and spent lots of time catching up and laughing. The friendship I have with him is so carefree and fun. I’ve missed my friends from Peru so much-but I’m so thankful that, through Jesus, our relationships will last forever!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Technology amuses us more than most....we discovered photobooth on the ipad. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</o:p></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-41939086083562924702012-01-03T09:10:00.000-08:002012-01-03T11:20:15.793-08:00Mom<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where do I even begin? Today marks the 1 year anniversary of my Mom’s loss to pancreatic cancer. Each day marking some new “first” that she couldn’t be there to share with us. How do I go about explaining grief? Living each day remember what now makes you feel incomplete inside. Wishing you could turn back the proverbial hands of time to recapture every hug, smile, and “I love you”. In a way, today is no different than the last 365- I still feel pain, but know that she no longer has to. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk67lUSCJn6SISkH-3jpU6mdnutbNFezf7IK59F81h1PmvduziU3KKOigpGImJW7wp-OG4_tIgdh7ob31iIcWYYN7iGVqWSX-lZEHpOUUo9mp4AkB0iHoU6vANHvJYporM11QJIkeOMvpD/s1600/IMG_1024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk67lUSCJn6SISkH-3jpU6mdnutbNFezf7IK59F81h1PmvduziU3KKOigpGImJW7wp-OG4_tIgdh7ob31iIcWYYN7iGVqWSX-lZEHpOUUo9mp4AkB0iHoU6vANHvJYporM11QJIkeOMvpD/s320/IMG_1024.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year has brought many people to my mind and prayers. My Mom’s Dad, who wondered why he had to outlive his youngest child; her sister, who called her every year on Mother’s Day to remember their beloved mother-who passed when I was just a baby; her older brothers, who she looked up to so much; her friends, who wrote her, called her, and visited with her throughout the year and a half that she fought this battle. I also think of my siblings, who are all dealing with this grief differently. Lastly, I think of my Dad, who hasn’t known life without my mom since he was 19 years old. I know these people hurt, just as I do, and I’m thankful for their influence in making my Mom such an inspiration in my own life. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIHthiVv6MbpHa016ksMA-WSlTBQ61-83iV1sPlInvsrqYbkeN8vbFbV-bz5lr7U5y4I9wKDiJflF0QYjxPMQ1rc7w4wKjEJAJz1V6xLC3cdBiAk7zE4QNM035e61JHBKHDFaE8-CKV1-O/s1600/Baker+family+christmas+023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIHthiVv6MbpHa016ksMA-WSlTBQ61-83iV1sPlInvsrqYbkeN8vbFbV-bz5lr7U5y4I9wKDiJflF0QYjxPMQ1rc7w4wKjEJAJz1V6xLC3cdBiAk7zE4QNM035e61JHBKHDFaE8-CKV1-O/s320/Baker+family+christmas+023.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I tossed and turned in bed last night recounting this time last year. Every member of my family camped out in the small living quarters we affectionately called “the fune”. We were each on 2 hour rotations to coax mom into taking morphine. Although it was awful to watch her degenerate, I think God planned out the timing perfectly. We were each given alone time with her to say our goodbye’s. Although many would say she was too far gone to understand, I knew she could feel my touch and hear my voice. I still remember holding her beautiful hand and memorizing her soft skin and each detail of her features. As days passed, we were all praying that God would take her and free her from the pain she was feeling. When the time came, it was almost as if a burden was lifted. She was with Jesus-her whole life’s journey was complete in just one moment. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, it is clear that I mourn. I still pick up the phone to talk to her, and then remember she’s not there. I still wonder what future events will bring without her presence. And I still have moments of weakness when I question God for taking her from me. All that aside, I know one thing to be true: God does not make mistakes. As a Christian, I need to daily take in this powerful verse: <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRvkhJ2f5I0tWX9SbT0c4K4sKuZyHUW_dpkkrrWSHbrQG7mfDxttNDibk8wdPXVX1HFJybabS1LyqB0rq8jVxLqz80Ktx_WvKKVjPBhyphenhyphenB2nCuIUjwRzUkFYgV4DxfJGBnVsAOutjgEdqy/s1600/IMG_1575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRvkhJ2f5I0tWX9SbT0c4K4sKuZyHUW_dpkkrrWSHbrQG7mfDxttNDibk8wdPXVX1HFJybabS1LyqB0rq8jVxLqz80Ktx_WvKKVjPBhyphenhyphenB2nCuIUjwRzUkFYgV4DxfJGBnVsAOutjgEdqy/s320/IMG_1575.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span> </span>For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him” 1 Thes. 4: 13-14<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">We have hope of a new life. I’m thankful my Mom no longer suffers! I’m thankful that she reached so many people during her life-most of all when she was ill. She will forever be that example in my mind of Christ-likeness. I couldn’t have asked for a better mother, and I will live my life remembering her-but also remembering that we have the hope of heaven.</span> </span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In closing, I’d like to offer you a valuable piece of my mother to hang on to, just as I have. Mom knew God was going to take her home early on in her illness. She prepared a journal for my dad, each of us kids, and one she wrote from a personal perspective: 6 in total. I have decided to share a couple of excerpts to bring joy to her friends and family-just as they have brought me joy. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8/29/09 “Lord, I pray that I will have the strength for Marlon when he is down-give me the words to say. I love him so dearly. Lord, whatever I face, my prayer is that you continually be seen in me. May others see grace and calmness in the face of tribulation”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #fce5cd; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This entry was to my Dad:<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9-31-09</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I do feel sadness for many things: </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Will I live to see more grandchildren other than Lucas? To answer all the questions about pregnancy that Amber and eventually Adrienne will have?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Sadness over perhaps not being around to help </span><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Adrienne plan her wedding-this is a very hard thought for me and tears drip off my chin as I write.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Sadness over who will hold and comfort you (Marlon) in times of loneliness and sadness?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Who will iron your shirts?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-sadness over the thought of you eating alone in restaurants.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-knowing from personal experience the heavy, crushing weight of losing a parents and knowing that I can’t be here to make is better for my kids. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-sadness over the possibility of not partnering with you in ministry. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Her personal journal:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">11/9/09 This week has been a bit of a struggle. Satan has attacked both Marlon and I physically and mentally. It’s difficult going through a sickness that has the ultimate end of death. It’s so hard to share our feeling of lost hopes and dreams-only hard in the fact that it brings us sadness. It’s not difficult to share and talk together-just difficult know that in the not so far-off future, Marlon will not have me here physically to share with. We are taking this time to cherish one another, fall in love again every day and count our many blessings. “God, give us the strength and purpose we need for each and every day. Please be with our children and family as well. Lord, We need you.” </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4L16w9K0czC1nNiDlo1aRAj3jiH6kNMkPmbq7QmIwZg51PaAxHfCslFBfUaGnPChgyAS531XUu5WIxamremt3Dnq8RALmLXUOBFNeAglz0DOjT_fxO-vupaNL51RJPVhJbrwO9XlFJp_/s1600/CSC_0404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEIKDdeWE9Isl74h9GVaqlnxcxvDiEqg-nQNi-1rhinArGEr-H6EicQIo3q5b-u0PWGzz_GYJ_NWP2Q11Q-RDv5mkVuoxDa0DhGEzkILEkpABQwb4t2QcPMJpYBf4EL0fiNN6kDZDZ4yFA/s1600/DSC_0547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEIKDdeWE9Isl74h9GVaqlnxcxvDiEqg-nQNi-1rhinArGEr-H6EicQIo3q5b-u0PWGzz_GYJ_NWP2Q11Q-RDv5mkVuoxDa0DhGEzkILEkpABQwb4t2QcPMJpYBf4EL0fiNN6kDZDZ4yFA/s400/DSC_0547.JPG" width="263" /></span></a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p style="background-color: #fce5cd;"> </o:p></span></div><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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</o:p></span></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-86741652708627609092012-01-01T10:51:00.000-08:002012-01-01T10:51:30.631-08:00Book Suggestions?I've been a little reading machine as of late!! I really enjoy snuggling down with a good book. So I've decided to make a "2012 book list". However, the list is shorter than I'd like---so I need friendly suggestions! Here's what I have so far:<div><br />
</div><div>1. The Help - Kathryn Stockett</div><div>2. Sun Stand Still - Steven Furtick</div><div>3. The Maker's Diet - Jordan Rubin</div><div>4. An Invisible Thread - Laura Schroff</div><div>5. Stories I Only Tell My Friends - Rob Lowe</div><div><br />
</div><div>I loved reading The Hunger Games, anything by Elisabeth Elliot, and most "fluff" novels. That should give you an idea of my reading style! I'm open to any and all suggestions!! :)</div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-39385633678175566052011-12-24T12:15:00.000-08:002011-12-24T12:16:46.166-08:00Cheers to Firsts!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmLXFgl079qgCzdxhb4_DBn6vBYn-GLlG5CRtA_m0mOSqD0-vtQw4wdgO_pd_Nj948qdnaObNNgfib7uLdM_YDcsQnw5Yz9Q6ZxH9C8-S29Sa7JexZMjtg53TnVp3QdmXtlEiQHIPAtjku/s1600/ottawacmas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmLXFgl079qgCzdxhb4_DBn6vBYn-GLlG5CRtA_m0mOSqD0-vtQw4wdgO_pd_Nj948qdnaObNNgfib7uLdM_YDcsQnw5Yz9Q6ZxH9C8-S29Sa7JexZMjtg53TnVp3QdmXtlEiQHIPAtjku/s400/ottawacmas.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Few things have made me happier than being a newlywed. The experience is truly impossible to describe. The joy of starting a new life with the one you love and sharing a whole new set of “firsts” with them has opened my eyes to a new facet of God’s blessings. For this reason, I was thrilled to plan out our first Christmas as a married couple! <br />
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One night at dinner, we had a good time discussing our respective family traditions. We gleaned through the list and decided to adopt some, nix others, and develop a brand new list of our own. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7WPz3W-tbqqF9_V5BKTDNTr_539cyzu6xqyz4lN2_ohoM1k7fJDEzWztJqzn4J9XFPbH00s2zHw1kMQmiQlPiawf3rSHZmcqaDGd9jW8cyKAimQ2GzEK-Q4u6VhDTGNHtGFWMNi0_HWP0/s1600/cmaslove.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7WPz3W-tbqqF9_V5BKTDNTr_539cyzu6xqyz4lN2_ohoM1k7fJDEzWztJqzn4J9XFPbH00s2zHw1kMQmiQlPiawf3rSHZmcqaDGd9jW8cyKAimQ2GzEK-Q4u6VhDTGNHtGFWMNi0_HWP0/s320/cmaslove.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I asked Nick what he wanted for dinner that night and he responded: “BACON!” So, we opted for the “breakfast for dinner” tradition. We read the Christmas story from Luke (we do this in the King family!), ate dinner, and proceeded to share both good and bad memories from the previous year. We exchanged gifts and finished off the night with Home Alone 2! We were talking before bed and it just kind of hit me how thankful I am that I married someone who will always be my best friend. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7xAPqftYWARXL94zEd6_sJ-zGsHk_vctWLo3aKRHQ8e1gEjpV9TZuzQfSyNg5U3UCEwEdv-r9cHkQOGnFIrRA9lPEuMBppf6syifyNfXb3l3ii6al7WfO9ADGvxMLmWfVVQ_5zhLSo_AL/s1600/cmasreasons.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7xAPqftYWARXL94zEd6_sJ-zGsHk_vctWLo3aKRHQ8e1gEjpV9TZuzQfSyNg5U3UCEwEdv-r9cHkQOGnFIrRA9lPEuMBppf6syifyNfXb3l3ii6al7WfO9ADGvxMLmWfVVQ_5zhLSo_AL/s320/cmasreasons.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a child, a fond memory of mine was listening to my Mom sing along to The Carpenters Christmas album! I really wanted to listen to it this year and asked Nick if he would get me the CD. One morning, Nick left for work without my knowledge. I woke up a little disappointed that I didn’t get to kiss him goodbye. I walked into the living room and heard Mary Carpenter singing “Merry Christmas Darling” and found a note that said “look outside! Our first snow as husband and wife”. What a blessing it is to have a man who values “firsts” as much as I do. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</span></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(we sipped on my favorite wine to celebrate our first Christmas together!)</span></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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My mom was always a big advocate of the Holiday season! Her Christmas tree would be breathtaking! Our job as kids was to "separate the lights"-we took it seriously until we realized it was busy work to keep us away from the handmade bows and cinnamon sticks which would elegantly grace the tree. All the homemade, macaroni ornaments were displayed on the tree in mine and Ashley's bedroom--they had no place on the opulent tree in the family room. We used to have this long-running joke where someone would hide and ugly ornament on the tree and see how long it too my mom to say "Who put that there?? where did that come from?!" haha! I still laugh about it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAgYFcbssr1OTyZjr5oaX32T8MvtdLrJOL4UNsTGfllC60CzHC-7xwUNUf1Qn7VSxeuu8vdKQd7nS4axdnNb0oNHDyYABcojMZM-AAEKCxf_pW1IO-a2ol72yv-kvFeAEBWJgWLGFFpfI/s1600/IMG_0655%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAgYFcbssr1OTyZjr5oaX32T8MvtdLrJOL4UNsTGfllC60CzHC-7xwUNUf1Qn7VSxeuu8vdKQd7nS4axdnNb0oNHDyYABcojMZM-AAEKCxf_pW1IO-a2ol72yv-kvFeAEBWJgWLGFFpfI/s320/IMG_0655%255B1%255D.JPG" width="238" /></a>This year is somehow different. I don't know if its the memory of my mom, being newly married, or that God has changed my heart---but I'm really excited!! My itunes is filled with popular Christmas songs, our tree was up before Thanksgiving, and I'm eager to come home and celebrate with family and friends. There's something so thrilling about making new traditions between Nick and myself. <br />
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Thanks to Mamma Simms (Allison Simmon's mom, and also my good friend), we had plenty of cheerful ornaments to put up! What a great wedding gift!<br />
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Pinterest gave me a great idea to have a gift for Nick every day of December up until Christmas! I've been working on collecting them and wrapping them with some sense of uniformity. I'm very thankful to have an excellent husband around this time of year--he's been my shoulder to cry on. On each gift I made a little tag with a reason why I love him. So far, he's really enjoyed opening each gift (even the boring ones--like undershirts and socks!). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got a little crafty with puffy paint and scrapbook paper:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66jD6sAg3NduCrseoOppkftSPjgj5RAIJOPlgMqROLUu9cQBD_ATcp1pHDuSDSu2aPhcXCTtF0Dsi_8hLrXb1QtWvHEWPnJO2KJhSjJIARnC-5z4f92CI7PlZdu9nom9MgOFgHst2FRNE/s1600/IMG_0653%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66jD6sAg3NduCrseoOppkftSPjgj5RAIJOPlgMqROLUu9cQBD_ATcp1pHDuSDSu2aPhcXCTtF0Dsi_8hLrXb1QtWvHEWPnJO2KJhSjJIARnC-5z4f92CI7PlZdu9nom9MgOFgHst2FRNE/s400/IMG_0653%255B1%255D.JPG" width="297" /></a><br />
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25 reasons why I love my hubs!!!:</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJeiTX_8iM4OmGjbdsynsVpV4JlogqwK0vzQQV30634AyoSAat5qUAQ9CEn4veEaPvRgaZ76q-KPnQqiybSbMcQNP5MmNNEmuvp924TNaL0Jggkdz8whcnUYlH88chma9ciduriywxydy/s1600/IMG_0656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJeiTX_8iM4OmGjbdsynsVpV4JlogqwK0vzQQV30634AyoSAat5qUAQ9CEn4veEaPvRgaZ76q-KPnQqiybSbMcQNP5MmNNEmuvp924TNaL0Jggkdz8whcnUYlH88chma9ciduriywxydy/s400/IMG_0656.JPG" width="297" /></a><br />
To really get me in the Christmas spirit, Nick got me roses and a fraiser fir scented candle (I'm in love with it!):<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-58212295425787534392011-11-15T11:06:00.000-08:002011-11-15T11:06:45.069-08:00Thoughts on Grief Before Nick and I moved to Ottawa, we began to pray that God would show us a good church so we could get involved and connected to the community. After several weeks of searching, God thankfully opened that door to church just 5 minutes from our apartment. We are so grateful to have an insightful pastor, a new small group, and several new friends to hang out with for the duration of our time here in Ottawa. Alex and Audrey came for a visit this weekend, and we were able to make it to church right after we hugged them goodbye on Sunday. Pastor Brian shared a tremendous sermon on grief - it directly spoke to my heart. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjblKT0_-n6zmoW38IJ_IrLfx3qp5Y7nKkp-fOBf_wJIYZhanB0oqgk8pHq7siuP5k8DgRo1T2fkdP5M7hnCNNIQo63ObTA_LywZI-q9_EXp0E1sLl00axP_ofY0sJNDTKs21wSibeXqc-/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjblKT0_-n6zmoW38IJ_IrLfx3qp5Y7nKkp-fOBf_wJIYZhanB0oqgk8pHq7siuP5k8DgRo1T2fkdP5M7hnCNNIQo63ObTA_LywZI-q9_EXp0E1sLl00axP_ofY0sJNDTKs21wSibeXqc-/s320/DSC_0003.JPG" width="212" /></a> Although I would never wish to relive these last two and a half years, I am thankful for how it has made my heart more tender to those who suffer. In the past, I would just say "wow! That's really sad...", but now, I truly hurt for people who are going through so much pain. God graciously puts people in my mind who I know need prayer for their circumstances. I become a bit discouraged when I think of how many people in my life who hurt from loss of a loved one, cancer, miscarriages, and depression. It breaks my heart! When I heard Pastor Brian's words on Matthew 5:4 ("Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted"), I knew I wanted to share some things that have opened my eyes as of late.<br />
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C.S. Lewis said: <i>"</i><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -24px;"><i>Part of every misery is, so to speak, the misery's shadow or reflection: the fact that you don't merely suffer but have to keep on thinking about the fact that you suffer. I not only live each endless day in grief, but live each day thinking about living each day in grief."</i></span><br />
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I never thought you could be "blessed" by grieving. I've heard being blessed once described as a pilot light-always lit, never conditional upon circumstance. To obtain this pilot light, its necessary to understand that grief is a pathway, not a destination. Something that takes time and healing to overcome. Pastor Brian used the example of a broken bone. If you don't seek attention for it, it will heal incorrectly, and it will have long term effects for years to come. So, how do you receive the proper attention for grief? Before listening to the sermon and doing some research on my own, I can honestly say that I didn't know the answer to "how should I grieve?". Here are a few notes I've gleaned from several sources:<br />
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Grief...<br />
<b>Takes time</b>: a <i>journey</i>, not a quick fix solution that many of us are accustomed to in our culture.<br />
<b>Does not pretend</b>: I always hated it when people would come up to me and say "everything is going to be okay"... it pissed me off.. because I was like "uhh...thanks for the support". Just call a spade a spade-it didn't feel like it was going to be okay in the moment, and its insulting to downplay the reality of everything. This concept has taught me a lot on how to pray for people. Honesty is such an important aspect of grieving.<br />
<b>Reflects and Celebrates</b>: My Dad is the poster child for this bullet point. It hurt so much to let Mom go, but Dad always reminded us of her example, her godly life, and her dedication to being an excellent wife and mother. We have to recognize God's gifts and be thankful for what he gave us--in my case, the perfect example of the mother I want to be.<br />
<b>Surrenders:</b> The word "surrender" is difficult for a control freak, like myself. It takes a lot of sacrifice to be "okay" with not knowing the answers. We have to lay all the questions and concerns at God's feet before we can experience peace and blessedness.<br />
<b>Trusts</b>: The only way to experience hope through grief, is by trusting that God is in control!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A good friend of mine gave me the book, "A Grief Observed" by C.S. Lewis. Its quite heavy, but I'm slowly making my way through it. I really enjoyed his quote concerning the loss of his wife, <i>"</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #f7f7f7;"><i>Can I meet Helen again only if I learn to love You so much that I don’t care whether I meet her or not?"</i> Bottom line: its not about me or my will-Its about my Creator and His Will. He gave the ultimate sacrifice so that <i>we</i> could be made new through suffering. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I guess this post is more beneficial to me than anyone. After my mom passed, I planned a wedding, got married, moved away and started a brand new life. I have pushed aside grieving for so long. I just don't want to do it. I want to be blessed without going through the whole process. I know, however, that God doesn't work that way. And I also know that God needs me to get through this so I can be a living example of healing-just like my Mom was. So many people need prayer and comfort, and I want to be a vessel of Gods hope that comes from relying on Him through difficult times. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Here are some key verses that have shown me the pathway of grieving to reach the destination of God's love:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQQ8QzxkwcohxLnfNYrSgGaUW1rp6rvhGCydUYPdnwLwXSSGyDA_QZJb40CJQ_LMRPaYaHuxXpMkHfwQseBS-pgkTEiYPB7twocWTwte5aZjoEicXSpuE1ZVqbt17aXHkprxiRSXa24Xn/s1600/PnB_2+165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQQ8QzxkwcohxLnfNYrSgGaUW1rp6rvhGCydUYPdnwLwXSSGyDA_QZJb40CJQ_LMRPaYaHuxXpMkHfwQseBS-pgkTEiYPB7twocWTwte5aZjoEicXSpuE1ZVqbt17aXHkprxiRSXa24Xn/s320/PnB_2+165.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; persecuted, not abandoned, struck down, but not destroyed" - 2 Corinthians 4:7</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"I will never leave you nor forsake you" Joshua 1:5b</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"I will make everything new" Revelation 21:5</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"O Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, "God will not deliver him". But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the Lord I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. I lie down and sleep; I wake again because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side. Arise O Lord! Deliver me, O my God! From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people." Psalm 3 (My Moms personal favorite)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet i will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior" Habakkuk 3:17-18</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLSdkzD3Yx_zkmqslQEvVGjAbwTdJOdgsxEOilrNsWlntgzPvaHLPbIydRt_VNUUmS_P7SzP_rvUis4WDvsf92DGGhtZQ2gOiKEfqVby9gpcog-nDQHImvdimsYIJGYujFgBXfJ0sndCV0/s1600/DSC_0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLSdkzD3Yx_zkmqslQEvVGjAbwTdJOdgsxEOilrNsWlntgzPvaHLPbIydRt_VNUUmS_P7SzP_rvUis4WDvsf92DGGhtZQ2gOiKEfqVby9gpcog-nDQHImvdimsYIJGYujFgBXfJ0sndCV0/s320/DSC_0070.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-63704079608159455772011-11-08T10:57:00.000-08:002011-11-08T10:57:26.102-08:00Ode to a BFF<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHkn3XqbXgLZdt6PCYYLB3jknvUYC9itPaOWuofxJEX6xd1olEIUlZLN0o3CHtl9DXvVx7QNH9mc_aMXe67rpufZcdNzHBOS6QYqDtAQ0l_p_WQI-PpSuTtLW7apCvs3i4eziuz1Mmf4g4/s1600/CIMG2204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHkn3XqbXgLZdt6PCYYLB3jknvUYC9itPaOWuofxJEX6xd1olEIUlZLN0o3CHtl9DXvVx7QNH9mc_aMXe67rpufZcdNzHBOS6QYqDtAQ0l_p_WQI-PpSuTtLW7apCvs3i4eziuz1Mmf4g4/s320/CIMG2204.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I hope everyone out there has a Rebekah! She’s the quintessential best friend who lasts through the ages. The one who stays your bestie even when you’re several states away, texts you daily with pointless things that only you find amusing, lets you be yourself without any judgment (EVER!), and chooses to encourage you and lift you up rather than pointing out your weaknesses! She never pokes fun at you for poor outfit choices or bad haircuts, she’s quick to defend you, and she laughs at your jokes even when they aren’t funny! She makes your stomach hurt from laughing so hard, but knows when you need to be cheered up! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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I love Bekah! We met almost 10 years ago in Peru. We disliked on another in the beginning-but God had a bigger plan and resolved our prepubescent quarrels. A lot of people didn’t understand us-since we chose to embrace the awkward middle-school years instead of fighting them. We loved to be weird! That friendship carried over into adult life. We stayed close even when we went to different colleges, moved 15 hours apart, and started new lives with our respective husbands. We only see one another a couple times a year-even still-our friendship remains stronger than ever! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cBnnS5ETMwRDbaToX7DxIIX0scoZsGWq6_hwVcdtI9MsA54lJhTNxWBRub4G8rTmln2Iqmy7PPYqo7DEtKId9b1RgBhbPNT1y1z44c2h_e6Jd7IPJpAzXLmvn9UIlFDYeCxBoQnrR1DP/s1600/IMG_4931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cBnnS5ETMwRDbaToX7DxIIX0scoZsGWq6_hwVcdtI9MsA54lJhTNxWBRub4G8rTmln2Iqmy7PPYqo7DEtKId9b1RgBhbPNT1y1z44c2h_e6Jd7IPJpAzXLmvn9UIlFDYeCxBoQnrR1DP/s320/IMG_4931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
I knew I would stay best friends FOREVER with Bekah when she was such a pillar for me during my mom’s illness. She always had the right thing to say and knew when I just needed to vent. She also had a special bond with my mom-so my grief was her grief. When I called to tell her Mom had passed…we sat on the phone crying together---I knew she mourned with me. I can’t describe how much that meant to me. <br />
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So….when I found out she was coming to visit me in Ottawa---I was ELATED! We had the greatest time together! She’s so low maintenance so I didn’t feel like I had to entertain her the whole time! We just laughed, relaxed, and enjoyed being together again! I’m so thankful for the rejuvenation of friendship! I feel so refreshed and loved when she’s around. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3G06ML4eBhmzrIxJZRWpOvW5iAKUSgvRjW0nlDuHlQvsHO3BnLB1KP7WULtJqw7oEyrsNZejZx5BDm7mPH1pXHaLJQiPsZnVFVMEtQRcoSvbZ36m6dVQGiZ6bP9sGWPnFhX9pfOGy03tA/s1600/funny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3G06ML4eBhmzrIxJZRWpOvW5iAKUSgvRjW0nlDuHlQvsHO3BnLB1KP7WULtJqw7oEyrsNZejZx5BDm7mPH1pXHaLJQiPsZnVFVMEtQRcoSvbZ36m6dVQGiZ6bP9sGWPnFhX9pfOGy03tA/s320/funny.jpg" width="236" /></a>Bekah-my bif… I love you so much! Thank you for being so loyal, forgiving, encouraging, and just AWESOME.<br />
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(typical Adrienne-Bekah pic)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-19011854044755075162011-10-29T14:51:00.000-07:002011-10-29T14:51:21.844-07:00Dancing Through Life!<div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMrOuqH4Tp2KXhLVLpMJkV_qmRZ5U2SzjV9XFrWeokZeacft-LPYcyqPMqLvTIdFKL5KuXQ8CosWr8qBsQOYffoHtVjaW8LGclBXnXs8MeT1vX2vgxQD9Z6gm-LLH4W2toZhJwtoMS3_9/s1600/naids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMrOuqH4Tp2KXhLVLpMJkV_qmRZ5U2SzjV9XFrWeokZeacft-LPYcyqPMqLvTIdFKL5KuXQ8CosWr8qBsQOYffoHtVjaW8LGclBXnXs8MeT1vX2vgxQD9Z6gm-LLH4W2toZhJwtoMS3_9/s320/naids.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I absolutely love music! I have a friend who is just about to graduate with a music composition degree, and every time I hear one of his pieces, I'm awestruck. Some people feel God in nature, or in art, but I feel him through music---for sure! I realize that "musicals" are not necessary an outlet of God's glory, however, I feel like they have a lot of soul! I'm amazed by the talents shown in musicals: the instruments, the song-writing, the VOICES!! I had never been to a legit Broadway show, until last night.<br />
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</div><div>Nick surprised me with Wicked tickets about a month ago! I have been overcoming some life issues, and he wanted to reward my progress and hard work. I was SO excited! I've been on cloud 9 ever since. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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I have a feel this will not be the last Broadway show for the Georges. :)<br />
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Even though it was after 1am when we got home... we managed to get a shot of the residual excitement! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXub9Ix0cNJr99Pl_L17lvR4kQWGA1MbX7Db8eaOIMQEb4DqGZG0xzQVerqs1BwR4zJXGfTatYijliBt9wYWHNQoCLUjKogOYcxJu5xEdjzABYI0XdqJFA7UEbIWlUSFWpa1S4rvVtky0w/s1600/IMG_0626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXub9Ix0cNJr99Pl_L17lvR4kQWGA1MbX7Db8eaOIMQEb4DqGZG0xzQVerqs1BwR4zJXGfTatYijliBt9wYWHNQoCLUjKogOYcxJu5xEdjzABYI0XdqJFA7UEbIWlUSFWpa1S4rvVtky0w/s320/IMG_0626.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
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</div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-25139514210031409122011-10-12T10:56:00.000-07:002011-10-12T10:56:02.431-07:00Fall RecipesI was a nanny for a family for 3 years for a family who had my dream kitchen! They had all the latest gadgets and cookware that made for fun, easy cooking! This, however, spoiled me greatly. The newlywed lifestyle is far from this extravagant way of living. They had one piece of cookware that I put on my mental wishlist---a Le Creuset dutch oven! You can sear things (without it sticking), and throw the whole thing in the oven due to its cast iron core! They are beautiful, functional, and SO easy to clean (I value cleanliness above all things).<br />
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I had been having some rough days after moving away from my friends and family, so Nick surprised me with a day of shopping at the outlet malls an hour away (smart man..). Our excursion was so exciting! We walked around and I spotted a Le Creuset store. I asked Nick if we could go in and just dream. I was in heaven. Everything was so pretty and colorful! I had my little 10 minutes of dreaming when I suggested we go to a different store. Without any manipulation on my part, Nick said "We should get one, Adi!"..the persuasive sales lady chimed in with a "that one is 40% off if you're interested. Nick picked it up and moved it to the register! ....I was glowing! :) I held it in my lap the whole way home, thinking of recipes to try!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DWJDFE3EYxQ2Gjaf7H3I3cgNA87OQMT7Xwa67kIk3upOrbC5sgkpdu0Sgt3JWLrVZ0bIsvm_H38nBgoL8R7-r4yFweKw3nTat-V0sx2pmUmkfkMX3wjma61kA7stxpG9I60qcljm0tQI/s1600/IMG_0501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DWJDFE3EYxQ2Gjaf7H3I3cgNA87OQMT7Xwa67kIk3upOrbC5sgkpdu0Sgt3JWLrVZ0bIsvm_H38nBgoL8R7-r4yFweKw3nTat-V0sx2pmUmkfkMX3wjma61kA7stxpG9I60qcljm0tQI/s320/IMG_0501.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Isn't she a 'beaut! I can almost hear the jeers of my friends back home! Who gets THIS excited about a pot? ...I do!<br />
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So far I've made lettuce wraps, pork roast, jambalaya, and a whole slew of fall soups and stews! I'll share some of our favorites!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
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Chickpea and Chard Stew</b></span><br />
3 tsp extra virgin olive oil<br />
1/2 red onion, diced<br />
3 sprigs of thyme<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWOLvRv_5dHe6UyeU7ME06PAN8jEjEsm8h0VkxOmVgQdUealXdeYgxp-cOiBnwa18G793Z_2Qhxwz-b_TPAytwzgtWZznMQLFggGtM7QA9khz5EyxbI4v7YtC2gbIB2N6cgZL5Y8iJHUT/s1600/_MG_8461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWOLvRv_5dHe6UyeU7ME06PAN8jEjEsm8h0VkxOmVgQdUealXdeYgxp-cOiBnwa18G793Z_2Qhxwz-b_TPAytwzgtWZznMQLFggGtM7QA9khz5EyxbI4v7YtC2gbIB2N6cgZL5Y8iJHUT/s320/_MG_8461.JPG" width="213" /></a>1/4 tsp. salt<br />
1 bunch of chard, chopped (can use collard greens too!)<br />
2 c baby spinach<br />
1 15-oz can petite diced tomatoes<br />
2 15-oz cans chickpeas,rinsed<br />
1 15-oz can great northern beans, drained and rinsed (optional)<br />
1-1 1/2 vegetable stock (low sodium preferred)<br />
pinch of cayenne pepper<br />
1 T chili pepper<br />
2 tsp cumin<br />
1/2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice<br />
2 c water<br />
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With the great northern beans: serving size: 1 cup cal: 400 fiber: 23 g (holy cow!) protein 22 g<br />
Without the great northern beans: serving size 1 cup cal 283 fiber: 13.4 protein: 14 g<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjgrpcEZ1Xq0iezqEjShBZSWbQlyVIX-AWJ4BuIbbp1hqs4fkp562XZVMqgHvsfnkWONnEyjmlEUmmNbqNSD4l-oIQrHMM2_buYMKlMuR4QQm6UZ7gc46qT_w3lpflK8yvLFPKbmnrjuj/s1600/_MG_8463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjgrpcEZ1Xq0iezqEjShBZSWbQlyVIX-AWJ4BuIbbp1hqs4fkp562XZVMqgHvsfnkWONnEyjmlEUmmNbqNSD4l-oIQrHMM2_buYMKlMuR4QQm6UZ7gc46qT_w3lpflK8yvLFPKbmnrjuj/s320/_MG_8463.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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We served it with bruschetta! YUM!!! we used whole wheat bread, diced tomatoes, garlic, thyme (i didnt have basil), white onion, and olive oil. it was incredible!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Turkey Chili </b></span><br />
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2 lb lean ground turkey (make sure the ratio is close to 93/7, the less fat, the better!)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmz7V4EqRNMh9MukQnSQRS-H6KigV3PTFfIBL1oVDcxZtJdtk3vMdHlDzZaIaGBaY0Qmn6EDHRqe31Z6clUahcHKNfchwNb8vfRltRMX9OSBWIrnSrGguny9FI1TncOWGgorzqdG_SWxBq/s1600/_MG_8455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmz7V4EqRNMh9MukQnSQRS-H6KigV3PTFfIBL1oVDcxZtJdtk3vMdHlDzZaIaGBaY0Qmn6EDHRqe31Z6clUahcHKNfchwNb8vfRltRMX9OSBWIrnSrGguny9FI1TncOWGgorzqdG_SWxBq/s320/_MG_8455.JPG" width="320" /></a>1/2 onion (red or white), diced<br />
3 cloves garlic, minced<br />
1 box 2-Alarm Kit Chili Mix (google it! Its a great spice kit)<br />
1 14-oz can diced tomatoes<br />
1 11.5-oz bottle of beer, lager makes the best flavor (look away my fellow Nazarenes)<br />
1 c tomato juice<br />
1 cup water<br />
1 jalapeno pepper, diced<br />
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serving size: 1 1/3 c. cal: 275 fiber .62 g protein: 29.8 g<br />
We serve it with green onion, sour cream, cheese, and mutligrain tortilla chips!<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Red Chicken Chili</span></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQhyphenhyphenohNZOp6YUZ6ej8rc1wuVQ4x4B7iPIRWGOREps428bYR7crp03HP-A-02NegHAmartMt3nGE2bczF8Bm8Q9l2fblWhmUC0vN8riOD8LZ7dlWxlOU28dzs9nVuccJHYP_9UBv0EeDo9/s1600/_MG_8409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQhyphenhyphenohNZOp6YUZ6ej8rc1wuVQ4x4B7iPIRWGOREps428bYR7crp03HP-A-02NegHAmartMt3nGE2bczF8Bm8Q9l2fblWhmUC0vN8riOD8LZ7dlWxlOU28dzs9nVuccJHYP_9UBv0EeDo9/s320/_MG_8409.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>1 pound cooked chicken, shredded<br />
1 15-oz can red kidney beans, with juices<br />
1 15-oz can great northern beans, (rinsed)<br />
1 15-oz can crushed tomatoes<br />
1 6-oz can tomato paste<br />
2 jalapenos, diced<br />
1/2 medium onion, chopped<br />
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped<br />
1 cup celery, chopped<br />
1 tablespoon worchestershire sauce<br />
2 tsp chili pepper<br />
1 tsp black pepper<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp cumin<br />
2 cups water<br />
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serving size: 1 cup cal: 331 fiber 14.8 protein 28.6<br />
we like it with tortilla chips, a grilled cheese, saltines, salsa, etc!<br />
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Well, there ya have it! Money did buy happiness in this case. :) I'm very thankful for such a wonderful husband who gives me gifts when I don't deserve them. Whining about moving hardly merits rewards- but I'm thankful, nonetheless. He loves to eat, and I love to cook---we're a match made in heaven. :)King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7656660002723101540.post-36109446739629320772011-10-07T09:42:00.000-07:002011-10-07T09:42:01.745-07:00Pumpkin lovin'I was texting Nick the other day and called him "pumpkin", and then pitched the idea of "seasonal pet names". I thought it was clever and could get interesting. He responded with "I'm gonna be late for work, witch-face". I retracted my request shortly thereafter.<br />
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Anyway, I just love the Fall! Its such a gorgeous time of year--probably my favorite! Its still warm enough outside to go running, but breezy enough to wear a closet full of trendy boots. I love the deep colors of orange, red and brown-it all just makes me so happy! I got into the Fall spirit a few weeks ago at the grocery store and purchased a very small, pathetic-looking pumpkin. It looked quite funny in our bare apartment, but it did spark the desire to make pumpkin-flavored goodies! Here's a few of our pumpkin creations:<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cranberry Pumpkin Muffins</span></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAYJV1xrDG692Vj3QD-zmSAjq1tq_b3Xio4xNWVVpj9Hc5nMXz3VMuIhOF_Dr5Y0qkX5bYjW221Kf4CXx51fIZANknf6jc2smDobmoGHRnCJIKnEATJkYF5MzPeGTMPJkzBgDUKj4yHlq/s1600/_MG_8431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAYJV1xrDG692Vj3QD-zmSAjq1tq_b3Xio4xNWVVpj9Hc5nMXz3VMuIhOF_Dr5Y0qkX5bYjW221Kf4CXx51fIZANknf6jc2smDobmoGHRnCJIKnEATJkYF5MzPeGTMPJkzBgDUKj4yHlq/s320/_MG_8431.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFaU3-bRbzq07Jew_fSQTwZ9h7X8nuqa_zf14Alx9Opyi1u4l7h4fNzqsOZ9Nk7SQRJwCgpgoOF9sEdLbTGv-Fv_8nH1llW_JHeGm58ZthOGtcKR87I-xAw-rwJBx-0CYa2u9kJfY2Tmx/s1600/_MG_8433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFaU3-bRbzq07Jew_fSQTwZ9h7X8nuqa_zf14Alx9Opyi1u4l7h4fNzqsOZ9Nk7SQRJwCgpgoOF9sEdLbTGv-Fv_8nH1llW_JHeGm58ZthOGtcKR87I-xAw-rwJBx-0CYa2u9kJfY2Tmx/s320/_MG_8433.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
2 T Truvia (if you dont want it low-cal, add 1/2 c. sugar)<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/4 tsp nutmeg<br />
1 cup pumpkin puree<br />
1 large egg, lightly beaten<br />
1/4 cup vegetable oil<br />
1 cup nonfat milk<br />
1 cup craisins<br />
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directions: add flour, sugar, truvia, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg in small bowl. In large bowl, combine pumpkin, egg, oil, and milk. Add the dry to the wet ingredients by folding it together. (if you over-mix, the muffins will be dense), carefully fold in craisins.<br />
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For cup cake pans: 350 degrees for 22-25 minutes<br />
For mini muffin cake pan: 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes<br />
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We used a mini muffin pan so they would be less calories for 1. 1 serving is 55 calories with 1 g protein and 1.5 g of fat! :) pretty tasty!<br />
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I told Nick to grease the pan... he took his job very seriously. :)<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin "Ice Cream" </span></b><br />
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I must give props to Amber for this one. She developed this little treat a while back and I tweaked it a little. Its delicious.<br />
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ingredients:<br />
1 container vanilla chobani yogurt<br />
1/2 c. pumpkin puree<br />
dash of cinnamon<br />
dash of pumpkin pie spice<br />
1/4 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 little packet of truvia (i just added that because i have a serious sweet tooth)<br />
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combine all the ingredients, and put in the freezer for 1.5 hours and it gets really smooth and cold--it tastes just like ice cream!<br />
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It makes 1 serving. and its 166 calories, 4 g of fiber, 17.5 g of protein (wow!), and .4 g of fat! and its PACKED with vitamin A. <br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Toasted Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87_GqPlXaBoIiLIOfdEnmBKqtj6wfJyqmQpc5V1-qH0Pf-TLmDI1VV07n4jjJtiBg-nBalO_Np4ZIVgzkQBQ32bVWysYAQCH3YhxI_bscJ5skLy0JUa_hYiW9xbWANT3y_jRjr0cvJKf5/s1600/_MG_8488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87_GqPlXaBoIiLIOfdEnmBKqtj6wfJyqmQpc5V1-qH0Pf-TLmDI1VV07n4jjJtiBg-nBalO_Np4ZIVgzkQBQ32bVWysYAQCH3YhxI_bscJ5skLy0JUa_hYiW9xbWANT3y_jRjr0cvJKf5/s320/_MG_8488.JPG" width="320" /></a>This recipe is NOT good for you. lol...but its delicious!<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
1 c. fresh pumpkin seeds, rinsed and dried<br />
1 Tablespoon butter, melted<br />
1 Tablespoon brown sugar<br />
1/4 c. chopped walnuts or pecans (optional...but fantastic!)<br />
1/4 tsp of cinnamon<br />
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice (optional)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rhHR04sKBEH5amtlmWXEIMk97qvkLRj-tw0MckpSL3AA85RxPV-hTMIMyQ4w6ru8vruEXSEfK40uH-Ey9Ks54i_5ojd29Byc63R2wAQy8KMeLH37W9pznzOLAkdDgbNMXjqqxg2c5ppc/s1600/_MG_8490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rhHR04sKBEH5amtlmWXEIMk97qvkLRj-tw0MckpSL3AA85RxPV-hTMIMyQ4w6ru8vruEXSEfK40uH-Ey9Ks54i_5ojd29Byc63R2wAQy8KMeLH37W9pznzOLAkdDgbNMXjqqxg2c5ppc/s320/_MG_8490.JPG" width="320" /></a>Mix everything together in a large bowl and then spread it out on a baking sheet covered in foil (otherwise they will stick to the pan). 375 degrees for 15 minutes on one side, remove to stir, and then bake 15 more minutes. Keep an eye on them.. it may not take that long depending on the oven.. and they burn quickly.<br />
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Here's pictures of us carving the pumpkin! :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84fBT8RWChpRtbk4la0mI3fuE_aWxBqyz1PThG109GNFKHRBCAyFSQJuUOYsySZ9i8VaiOa1Sky64bYxF_t_tRlb5MJ6wTkkRRLvkU1IBQMkOFU9kQKqZfGHxJEAxK2iKlUJRcQfAD3Wr/s1600/_MG_8472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84fBT8RWChpRtbk4la0mI3fuE_aWxBqyz1PThG109GNFKHRBCAyFSQJuUOYsySZ9i8VaiOa1Sky64bYxF_t_tRlb5MJ6wTkkRRLvkU1IBQMkOFU9kQKqZfGHxJEAxK2iKlUJRcQfAD3Wr/s320/_MG_8472.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixw0gGo4Sh3OXUmBBqxiADkTqb6FPEhKfARgda6WWxv3ckXyUm2llqQhmsF6gjKU2SLjbtZK_XdCb3IwAJPQrax-Rliepoh4gna8dxR2DY_QfptA4h79mK-OcVzmEDX_CERanNRcEsguSk/s1600/_MG_8477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixw0gGo4Sh3OXUmBBqxiADkTqb6FPEhKfARgda6WWxv3ckXyUm2llqQhmsF6gjKU2SLjbtZK_XdCb3IwAJPQrax-Rliepoh4gna8dxR2DY_QfptA4h79mK-OcVzmEDX_CERanNRcEsguSk/s320/_MG_8477.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Say hello to Nicks little friend. He created this guy when I was working hard to get the guts out of our tiny pumpkin!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ_MC0tv93ZuNdgoWTIcZSibdkiRM7BPJveVbhRlTKeH1RO6kUoijGvo1G-ZzIrlXkfP6V2YxrJrJF-4FKKrKlM9YoLS731ncCifdrFu-NPzeUqtL2E8I8bttjt4a-0W-qPsWqVM1if6c5/s1600/_MG_8483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ_MC0tv93ZuNdgoWTIcZSibdkiRM7BPJveVbhRlTKeH1RO6kUoijGvo1G-ZzIrlXkfP6V2YxrJrJF-4FKKrKlM9YoLS731ncCifdrFu-NPzeUqtL2E8I8bttjt4a-0W-qPsWqVM1if6c5/s320/_MG_8483.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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My husband is not a hillbilly. I warned him his nudity would be blogged. He was indifferent as always.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBIpGK9kPilFD8HQunK5AhY8qXjPfFA0sWJAE1znirLjj_CRfpNhxwNzpURcBHLZi4EJFDio1CnVeIVGTgbx4wpzegWJoFG2uNOfdtuC7U_dSzMNUF8G_VksKcbIL2kwomF8Zcjy3BgNRR/s1600/_MG_8487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBIpGK9kPilFD8HQunK5AhY8qXjPfFA0sWJAE1znirLjj_CRfpNhxwNzpURcBHLZi4EJFDio1CnVeIVGTgbx4wpzegWJoFG2uNOfdtuC7U_dSzMNUF8G_VksKcbIL2kwomF8Zcjy3BgNRR/s320/_MG_8487.JPG" width="230" /></a><br />
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Not the most flattering of pictures after going to the gym... It looks like a "first day of school" photo. It was the only photo Nick agreed to take of our sad pumpkin. I thought the "G" would be cute...we just ended up looking like die-hard Packers fans (this one's for you Bekah!). It was still a fun experience! </div>King George Chronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06657043598456903939noreply@blogger.com4