tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20472935371463468992024-03-13T02:57:48.776-04:00Organized and Simplified!Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.comBlogger219125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-39186909610055542002015-12-04T01:32:00.002-05:002015-12-04T01:33:50.917-05:00I Bought It!From this day forward, you can find me at <a href="http://www.organizedandsimplified.com/">http://www.organizedandsimplified.com</a>. I will be blogging there from now on.Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-22535002761358313662015-12-03T01:30:00.000-05:002015-12-03T01:30:35.501-05:00Christmas home tour postponedToday, I was supposed to post our Christmas home tour. Instead, one of my trees is currently without lights. The lights have ceased working and must be replaced before I can show you the tour. I am hoping to have everything ready to share by tomorrow, or Monday at the latest. I apologize for the inconvenience.Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-11929907952520185092015-12-02T13:35:00.005-05:002015-12-02T13:37:02.148-05:00Wordless WednesdayThis week in pictures<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span>Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-72565494677688025362015-12-01T13:14:00.000-05:002015-12-01T14:59:26.348-05:00Getting organized...and singing in the shower Admit it, when you read that title, you started singing that Becky G song "Shower," didn't you?<br />
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I'm about to do something I never thought I'd do- invite my readers into my shower. Sort of. There are a few reasons why this is a rare occurrence- we are currently saving money to do a bathroom remodel here in a few years. Our bathroom fixtures, except for the vanities, are cheap and not in good shape. The bathtubs are horrible.<br />
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Our bathtub in the master bath is horrible for a different reason. On any given day, when I or my husband are in the shower, this is what you might hear: *running water, running water, crash! running water, running water, BOOM! running water, running water, BANG!**<br />
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You get the idea. But why all the noise? Well, our tub and shower are kind of on the narrow side. And by kind of, I mean REALLY narrow. Plus, the inside of the shower looks like this:<br />
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Bottles, bottles everywhere. Did I mention that the majority of them are EMPTY? </div>
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Kid shower items in my shower? But their bathroom is down the hall. And do we really need 6 cups to wash little girl hair? </div>
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Ok, this part doesn't look so bad...</div>
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I want to get a bigger shampoo rack (or whatever you call this thing) so I can fit more things on it, but in the meantime, I decided to do what I could. I started by throwing away those empty shampoo bottles.</div>
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I also looked at what is being kept in the shower that we don't need- I removed all but one cup for washing little girls' hair, and while I left her shower products, I moved them. I also removed that bottle of baby oil gel that was taking up the bottom of my shampoo rack- can't remember the last time I used that. </div>
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Then, I moved that bottle of Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body to my cabinet. I don't use it everyday, and I figured I could get it out when I want to use it. By the way, if you don't use Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub, stop reading right now, get in your car, go to Wal-Mart, and buy some right now. It'll be the best $7 you ever spent and you'll wonder where Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub has been all your life. Wonder how many times I can say "Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub" in one blog post? </div>
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When all was said and done, I stepped back to admire a shower that looked like this: </div>
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My husband and I both start and end our day here in the shower- we might as well make it an organized and simplified experience. Not to mention, a much quieter one. </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">0d462f806db77aed4db4bc56ee04f3a05f9d487b71ad5c7e00</span></div>
Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-73443124958912989732015-11-30T13:52:00.001-05:002015-12-02T13:36:41.537-05:00Top ten baby essentials: newborn editionGood afternoon! It is wet, cold and rainy in my neck of the woods. Needless to say, we are staying in! As I'm sitting here typing, my precious girl is taking a nap right across from me in a baby swing.<br />
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As most of you know, life with a newborn is a tough adjustment sometimes...especially if you waited 4.5 years between children like we did. If you're a first time parent, registering for what your baby needs can be ovewhelming, and chances are, you're going to end up with a lot of things you really don't need. Earlier this year, I wrote a <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/getting-organized-before-baby-how-to.html">post about keeping baby gear from taking over your home.</a> You may want to revisit that.<br />
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Today, I'm going to share ten things that are making our life with a new baby easier. They are in particular order, and of course, this list is based off of our opinions and what's working for us. We're real people with real children- we're not experts, we're just parents. So please, if there are any products that you can't live without, please comment and tell me about them. Who knows? a first time parent may be reading, and may benefit from your suggestions.<br />
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As I said before, these are in no particular order.<br />
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1. Medela Pump In Style Advanced breast pump<br />
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<img alt="Pump In Style® Advanced" src="http://www.medelaimages.com/product_images/lrg/MPNSA001-02-001.jpg" /><br />
[photograph courtesy of the <a href="http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/products/573/pump-in-style-advanced">Medela website</a>]<br />
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If you're planning to breastfeed, this pump is where it's at. I had access to a hospital grade pump in my hospital room, but they had it set on a preemie setting, and this engorged mama didn't get any relief until I was at home with my Medela Pump in Style. I also obtained a free one from insurance and now have two pumps. You should contact Aeroflow and see if your insurance qualifies. This promotion didn't exist when I had Emorie, but you should definitely take advantage of it.<br />
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2. Graco Pack and Play with changing station and newborn napper<br />
<img alt="Graco Pack 'N Play with Newborn Napper Elite, Vance" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61Y6IlqeBhL._SX522_.jpg" height="327" width="400" /><br />
[Photo from<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Graco-Newborn-Napper-Elite-Vance/dp/B005UV0UU4"> Amazon.com</a>]<br />
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There are several different models of Pack and Plays you can get. We like this one because it has a bassinet for newborns. It's currently set up in our bedroom, where she'll sleep until we feel she's big enough for her crib. The newborn napper has a feature in which you can play music, use vibration to calm a fussy baby (it works!), play nature sounds, and shine a light to check on your baby. The changing station is nice, too. Our house is one level and her nursery changing table is right across the hall, but when I'm tired, I don't always want to leave the bedroom. It's nice to have two places to change her. Also, when she outgrows the newborn napper and changer, we can remove them and she can sleep in the pack and play itself. Also, we have out of state family and we travel a lot. We can fold up this Pack and Play and she can sleep in it. I've also seen people take them outdoors in the summer and stretch a fitted crib sheet across the top so babies can play safely away from the grass and any biting bugs. I definitely recommend this!!<br />
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3. Fisher Price Rock and Play sleeper<br />
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<img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/615Jjt9K2VL._SL1000_.jpg" height="320" width="240" /><br />
I love how portable this is. When Aubrey is asleep, I can just move it to whatever room I am in. It folds up easily and travels easily. The only negative is that it's small and she won't use it long.The incline is nice too- seems to help with the tummy troubles.<br />
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4. Dr. Brown's Preemie Bottles with Preemie Nipples<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i5.walmartimages.com/dfw/dce07b8c-c6e4/k2-_fad453d5-b3a4-4bc0-9e6b-987f834c3003.v2.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Photo courtesy of <a href="http://walmart.com/">Walmart.com</a>]</td></tr>
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Our girl was a little early, and as a result, pretty tiny. She was too small to properly latch and adequately nurse. At the lactation specialists' recommendation, we purchased these bottles. They are two ounce bottles, and we used them and loved them until she reached three weeks and began eating more.<br />
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5. Avent Natural<br />
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<img src="http://www.toysrus.com/graphics/tru_prod_images/Philips-AVENT-4-Ounce-BPA--pTRU1-12832727dt.jpg" height="320" width="320" /><br />
[photo from <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/buy/bottles-sizes-2-6-oz./philips-avent-4-ounce-bpa-free-natural-polypropylene-bottles-3-pk-scf690-37-12934542">Babies R Us</a>]<br />
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I used Avent Classic bottles with my oldest, but received several of these through a promotion Motherhood Maternity was doing. When Aubrey started eating larger amounts, I decided to try them. What I discovered is that the latch is almost identical to breastfeeding. Once we started using these bottles during the day, her nursing improved dramatically. We're now back to nursing every other feeding, and bottle feeding pumped milk on the feedings in between. My goal is to exclusively nurse on nights and weekends once I return to work.<br />
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6. aden + anais swaddle blankets<br />
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<img src="http://trus.imageg.net/graphics/media/trus/Aplusplus/2012/4001836/aden-and-anais-four-pack-swaddleplus-wraps-safari-friends-4001836-05.jpg" /><br />
[photo from <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/buy/swaddle-blankets/aden-anais-4-pack-swaddleplus-wraps-safari-friends-s105-4001836">Babies R Us</a>]<br />
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First off, let me say that I love the SwaddleMe blankets and the Halo sleep sacks, but our girl isn't big enough for them yet. In the meantime, we are loving this swaddle blanket. Yes, we have swaddled Aubrey with regular receiving blankets, but they are not big enough, and as a result, she ends up "busting out" of the swaddle. These are long enough, plus, they are so soft and cuddly.<br />
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7. Pampers Swaddlers<br />
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<img src="http://scene7.samsclub.com/is/image/samsclub/0003700081962_A?$img_size_380x380$" height="320" width="320" /><br />
[photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.samsclub.com/sams/pampers-swaddlers-size-newborn-up-to-10-lbs-96-ct/prod5220207.ip">Sam's Club</a>]<br />
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We actually use both Pampers and Huggies, but Pampers are actually my favorite. I like the fact that they have the wetness indicator and I haven't had any problems with them leaking as long as they aren't too big or too small. Plus, the Pampers reward program is a nice perk, too.<br />
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8. Mam newborn pacifiers<br />
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<img src="http://s7d9.scene7.com/is/image/BedBathandBeyond/35909442366416p" height="320" width="320" /><br />
[<a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/1/1/186886-mam-start-size-newborn-2-months-pacifier-pink-purple-2-pack.html">Photo from Bed, Bath and Beyond</a>]<br />
We received one of these pacifiers as a gift. They are small and easier for my baby girl to hold on to. Plus, they come in all sorts of cute designs. We were divided on whether we should get her paci, but these have definitely been good.<br />
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9. Boppy feeding pillow<br />
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<img src="http://www.boppy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Peaceful-Jungle1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /><br />
[Photo from <a href="http://boppy.com/">Boppy.Com</a>]<br />
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This thing is awesome!! Right now we use it for nursing- I've never really been able to get her to the correct height with just regular pillows. It's also great for propping up babies who can't sit independently and for tummy time.<br />
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10. DexBaby Mommy Bear<br />
<img alt="Mommy Bear with Womb Sounds, Tan/Light Brown Teddy Bear" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eEARnJ8rL._SX425_.jpg" height="320" width="320" /><br />
[photo from <a href="http://amazon.com/">Amazon.com</a>]<br />
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Our baby is something of a light sleeper. We got this bear when we had Emorie- it was a hand-me-down gift from my cousin. Emorie didn't really use it, but Aubrey has. We put the bear near her and turn on the womb sounds and she usually goes right to sleep. DISCLAIMER: Do not put stuffed animals, pillows, or blankets in areas where babies sleep (cribs, cradles, bassinets, pack and plays, rock and plays, etc).<br />
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So there you have it! Please feel free to comment and add your newborn necessities. As Aubrey gets older, I'll post more necessities. Thanks for reading!<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span><br />
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<br />Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-91146892900855731902015-11-28T17:47:00.001-05:002015-11-28T17:50:39.674-05:00Of maternity leave and toilet plungersAs most of you know, we just had a baby.<br />
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[Hillary Graves Photography]</div>
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She is now three weeks old, and I took about four weeks off from blogging. I wanted to tell you I am back now and will resume a normal schedule. Today we are decorating for Christmas, and boy, has it been fun!</div>
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But first, a funny story...that may or may not be TMI.</div>
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Someone in our house clogged the toilet. </div>
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After calling out for the husband to bring a plunger, we realized we didn't have one. Even though we always have. Where it went, I don't know. </div>
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A short time later, my hubby amateur plumber called from the hardware store. </div>
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"Can you look at the toilet and see what the flush capacity is?"</div>
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I told him I'd be happy to, but at that moment, I was nursing. </div>
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"Why do you need to know?" I asked.</div>
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He then told me that he was shopping plungers and needed to make sure the one he was buying was appropriate for our toilet. </div>
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Huh? I hadn't ever realized there were varying degrees of toilet plungers. I thought they were pretty much "one model fits all...." that you just went to the store, bought a plunger, and then came home and well, plunged. </div>
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Clearly, I have a lot to learn. By the way, it's called a magic plunger and apparently, you can use it to unclog sinks as well. Who knew? I'm not sure how it stacks up to regular plungers, but it got the job done. </div>
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-89451037669448123272015-11-17T20:25:00.001-05:002015-11-17T20:25:51.669-05:00An announcement...and a birth story :)If you're wondering where I've been lately, and why this blog has been so quiet, I promise I have a good reason. After dealing with several days of false labor, I decided to give myself some time off from the blog to make sure I was as ready for Aubrey as I could possibly be, both at school and at home.<br />
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You can probably guess what happened next: this sweet girl arrived on November 6, 2015 at 8:04 p.m., after a long and difficult labor. She was born a little over 3 weeks early, and we initially dealt with an extended hospital stay for jaundice, but everything is OK now.<br />
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I worked on Thursday, November 5, and had contractions all day long. I timed them, and while they were fairly consistent, they were still pretty far apart. I didn't think too much about it, but wondered if maybe we might be going to the hospital that night. In the afternoon, I began to suspect that my water might be leaking. When I was in labor with Emorie, the doctor broke my water, and this was definitely nothing like that. I called my doctor and they suggested I come to the hospital.<br />
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I spent a few minutes making sure things were ready in case I was out of school the next day, then headed home to wait for Michael and make arrangements for Emorie. Upon arriving at the hospital Thursday evening, I was monitored and doctors ran tests to check for amniotic fluid. The initial tests came back negative, and I prepared myself to leave. Doctors wanted to run one more test, and it came back positive.<br />
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I was admitted, and spent the night in labor and delivery being monitored. My contractions, while still coming, were not necessarily getting stronger or closer together. In the morning, doctors and nurses made the decision to start me on Pitocin. My heart sank- I am a natural childbirth mama and was worried about how much more intense the pain would be.<br />
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I labored several hours more on the Pitocin, and when I still was not dilating at a quick pace, I asked my doctor how he felt about stripping membranes. I knew they would typically not do this prior to 37 weeks, but because my water was leaking, I also knew they had to deliver her. My doctor agreed, and then discovered my water had not completely broken. He chose to break it the rest of the way.<br />
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Things began to progress rapidly after that. I remember the nurses coming in and telling me I was dilated to a six. Five minutes after that, I had a strong contraction and yelled to the nurses that the baby was coming. She checked me and ran to the phone. My doctor nearly missed Aubrey's birth, but arrived just in time. After being in labor for nearly 24 hours, Aubrey entered the world in three pushes. She was completely OK, despite some bruising on her head and face, and having to receive phototherapy for jaundice. Her slight prematurity has not had an effect on her, blessedly.<br />
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Something funny- Aubrey and her sister Emorie have so many similarities. Emorie was born at 37 weeks, Aubrey at 36 weeks, 5 days. Emorie was 6 pounds 2 ounces, and 19.5 inches long and Aubrey was 6 pounds, 1.4 ounces, and 19 inches long. Both girls had jaundice and had to have phototherapy. Both girls have similar features and were both born with a head full of dark hair. If you want to read Emorie's birth story, you can find it <a href="http://candlewoodboones.blogspot.com/2011/06/our-birth-story.html">here on our old blog. </a><br />
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Emorie adores her little sister and constantly wants to hold her and kiss her.<br />
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Our hearts are full. Thank you for all the prayers for our family. </div>
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<br />Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-52610312601664461002015-11-05T00:00:00.001-05:002015-11-17T21:16:55.591-05:00Making the old things newI haven't had much luck lately at the thrift stores. In fact, my most recent thrift store tripIs have been a giant bust. I did have some luck in a really unlikely place this weekend- my mama's garage.<br />
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This is unlikely because my mom and dad have a garage that is fairly neat and organized- it's way more organized than mine, for sure! It's just not likely that my mom would have things in her garage that she doesn't use.<br />
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A friend of ours had recently given her a really cool lantern, but she really didn't know yet where she wanted it.<br />
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I took one look at it and thought about how it had a neat shape about it, but that the floral swag attached to it really didn't match anything I had. I took a closer look and realized that the floral pieces were attached with zip ties. </div>
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Needless to say, I brought it home and took some scissors to those zip ties. It only took me about two minutes to chop those guys off and then I was left with this:</div>
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I really like the shape of this candleholder. I am thinking of putting something at the top- something simple, like a burlap bow. I have this sitting by our TV cabinet at the moment, but that is not its permanent spot. It would look great on a fireplace hearth (which we don't have) (#firstworldproblems) or maybe even paired with other lanterns. </div>
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The possibilities are kind of endless. Can't wait to show you what I do with it! </div>
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-40259957304166338952015-10-28T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-28T00:00:04.039-04:00Wordless Wednesday <div style="text-align: center;">
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-80106702604174200982015-10-27T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-27T06:10:16.170-04:00Recipe: Apple spice cake I have always wanted to make an apple spice cake, but I've never tried. I have several family members who can make an apple spice cake, and I've always found it to be the perfect fall recipe. It tastes wonderful with coffee, and it will make your house smell amazing!<br />
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As always, I like to use recipes that only use pantry staples. Most commercially printed cookbooks these days contain recipes with hard to find ingredients and I have a hard time being able to buy all the ingredients. This is why I love church cookbooks and old cookbooks :)<br />
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The only thing I changed was not using the walnuts. I have some friends who are allergic to tree nuts and wouldn't be able to enjoy this recipe. I also used an 8x8 nonstick pan instead of a bundt pan. You can also make muffins with this. The top of the cake is just brown sugar and cinnamon.<br />
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Here is the recipe for apple spice cake. I hope you enjoy it! As always, right click the card to save to your computer. For best results, change your paper size to 5x7 and print on an index card.<br />
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-65985759880403229532015-10-26T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-26T00:00:05.956-04:00Weekend recap: Millstone Creek OrchardsWe had a great, but busy weekend around here- Emorie stayed with my parents Friday night, and Michael had to work Saturday morning. I took advantage of the alone time to catch up on some housework. We also had some family come into town from WV this weekend on Saturday, and yesterday, we finally made it out to Millstone Creek.<br />
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We've been trying to get out there for weeks, but it has either rained or someone has been sick. It's a good thing we finally went, too- today was the last day for hayrides and pumpkin picking. </div>
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Emorie and her daddy really enjoyed the hayride. </div>
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It was such a pretty day to go enjoy the orchard, too. </div>
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Most of the pumpkins in the patch were rotten or sampled by some local wildlife. Our sweet girl did manage to choose three pumpkins she liked. </div>
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I found some neat abandoned buildings and some rusted, decaying farm equipment. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Once she chose her pumpkins, it was time for a snack and some playtime in the kids' area. </span></div>
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I hope each one of you had a good weekend- we know we certainly did :)Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-62296951490259053462015-10-24T09:15:00.004-04:002015-10-24T09:15:42.108-04:00Happy weekend! I don't know about you, but I'm pretty glad the weekend is here. We have family coming into town this weekend, and we have lots of fun activities planned...especially since we had lots of fun things planned last weekend, and our weekend ended up being a big bust.<br />
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At any rate, here is what I shared this week on our blog:<br />
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1. On Friday, I shared <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/upcycling-plastic-food-and-cleaning.html">ways to repurpose plastic food containers</a>- I actually have a few more ideas for this that I haven't shared with you yet.<br />
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2. On Thursday, I <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/thrift-store-findsor-not.html">shared a trip to the thrift stores that was a total bust</a>...but a trip to "W-store" that turned out to be pretty good. </div>
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<img alt="So lovely! Details are what make the dinnerware from Ree Drummond’s new Pioneer Woman collection so special. Available exclusively at Walmart, the Paige 12-piece stoneware set has intricate embossed details and a unique crackle glaze finish. The dishes are both microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe, making them perfect for everyday use. Included are four 10.75" dinner plates, four 8" salad plates and four 8.25" bowls. See Ree’s full line at Walmart.com/thepioneerwoman now and in your store on 9/14.: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/30/4a/02/304a02dd0171d938d9bd87d8858674cd.jpg" width="310" /></div>
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3. On Wednesday, I shared a super cute picture of my sweet girl. </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/11825936_10100670340514472_5552663145238224965_n.jpg?oh=ad234005c89a47a888219c6ef4e95a71&oe=5691CCCB" width="400" /></div>
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4. On Tuesday, <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/tuesday-decorating-on-dime.html">I shared our plans for decorating our dining room. </a></div>
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d622b3127ccee99217ed0afa00000030O18AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720150803152317082.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" /></div>
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5. On Monday, I shared <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/getting-organized-mondays-desk-drawers.html">a small organizing project. </a></div>
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce36b3127cceea363bf3f70300000030O08AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720151018002548474.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" /></div>
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Here is what you can expect for next week:</div>
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1. Repurposed glass containers </div>
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2. Antique mall finds </div>
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3. Dining room reveal (we hope so, anyway)</div>
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4. Wordless Wednesday </div>
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5. Recipe</div>
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6. Weekend Travels </div>
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And here is what I am enjoying reading this weekend: </div>
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1. <a href="http://www.diycraftproject.com/2014/03/52-life-hacks-every-homeowner-should.html?m=1">52 Life Hacks Every Homeowner Should Know</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/advice/g1968/kitchen-backsplash-ideas/">2. 14 Creative Kitchen Backsplash Ideas</a></div>
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3.<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/how-to/g2064/classic-tv-show-living-rooms/?slide=11"> How Classic TV Show Living Rooms Would Look Today</a></div>
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4. <a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/gardening/a4289/fall-yard-chores-landscaping/">10 Things Pro Landscapers Do To Their Yards Every Fall </a></div>
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Have a wonderful weekend...and week! </div>
Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-17508651383153520112015-10-23T00:00:00.000-04:002015-11-30T13:52:06.503-05:00Upcycling: plastic food and cleaning product containers Last week, I showed you some of the ways I have used tin cans to organize and decorate. Now, I'm going to show you some of the ways we re-use plastic food containers.<br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e9/0b/ff/e90bffa7651ddc1a060739ee111d0b04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Travel Snacks...didn't know these were clear under the wrapper: " border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e9/0b/ff/e90bffa7651ddc1a060739ee111d0b04.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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We have upcycled cottage cheese containers to plant small plants.<br />
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<img alt="DIY - Modge Podge Yogurt Tubs Step-by-Step Tutorial using Lightweight Scrapbook Paper.: " height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/77/ee/00/77ee000969f98b90fdcdc4d4c5169410.jpg" width="213" /></div>
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We also have covered them with paper and used them to store things, just like the cans. I use a oaoer-covered Chlorox wipes container to hold Boxtops for Education in my classroom.<br />
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Recently, I got an even better idea. I had an old Chlorox wipes container in my kitchen that I had saved for one reason or another. I decided it would make a great headband holder for the baby's room, but I wasn't sure exactly how I wanted to do it. I started by wrapping the can in pretty paper.<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce36b3127cceea37528c16ac00000030O18AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720151018003012344.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" /></div>
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Then, I found a dollar store candleholder and attached it to the bottom of the can with some Locktite super glue to give it some height. I added some pretty ribbon to the top and bottom of the can.<br />
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I had a pretty cute little headband stand then :) What do you think?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTiiELhVpbLAm4ixJPX237Zw3wUFXB6P1f2EhXPALWbm7NxkFBbnruouHOe79F4eRORknNwAOhQYLGitPRi-NAaN63mJAQz-1NKJwEcHkQI4KJIr6Ri5BNkV16b86xOcu6PPup2HpNg/s1600/DSC_0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTiiELhVpbLAm4ixJPX237Zw3wUFXB6P1f2EhXPALWbm7NxkFBbnruouHOe79F4eRORknNwAOhQYLGitPRi-NAaN63mJAQz-1NKJwEcHkQI4KJIr6Ri5BNkV16b86xOcu6PPup2HpNg/s320/DSC_0062.JPG" width="211" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span>Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-85005691440803745272015-10-22T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-22T06:12:54.340-04:00Thrift store finds...or not. This past weekend, we had so many fun things planned. We intended to go to the park with a friend and her daughter, we intended to go to the pumpkin patch, and we intended to go to the fall festival. None of these things happened, as we all woke up feeling bad on Saturday. Determined to salvage even a small grain of the weekend, I decided to enjoy one of my favorite past times- going to the local thrift stores. I love this- it's like a treasure hunt; you never know what you might find.<br />
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It is easy to go into a thrift store, though, and end up coming back out with a lot of things you really didn't need. To curb this problem, I have begun going into the thrift stores in search of certain things only. Right now I'm in the market for the following items: a chandelier that can be painted and used with shades, interesting pictures or art work, plates or dishes, and place mats that can be made into pillows.<br />
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I wanted six red or white plates to hang on either side of my china hutch. In the end, I found zero red plates, and the only nice white ones I found were Christmas-y. Bummer. Do you ever go to the thrift store and come up empty handed? It doesn't happen to me often, but it surely did this time :(<br />
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I try to avoid "local big box store that seems to be in every town and starts with a W" for obvious reasons- I overspend when I go there, the quality of their merchandise isn't always what I want, and I can never seem to get in and out of their quickly. I decided yesterday that I would just cruise through their kitchen section and leave.<br />
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Have you guys SEEN the new Pioneer Woman line? Holy. Cow.<br />
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<img alt="So lovely! Details are what make the dinnerware from Ree Drummond’s new Pioneer Woman collection so special. Available exclusively at Walmart, the Paige 12-piece stoneware set has intricate embossed details and a unique crackle glaze finish. The dishes are both microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe, making them perfect for everyday use. Included are four 10.75" dinner plates, four 8" salad plates and four 8.25" bowls. See Ree’s full line at Walmart.com/thepioneerwoman now and in your store on 9/14.: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/30/4a/02/304a02dd0171d938d9bd87d8858674cd.jpg" width="310" /></div>
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[<a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Pioneer-Woman-Happiness-10.6-Decorated-Scallop-Shape-Dinner-Plates-Red-Rim/46039784">source</a>] </div>
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Do you see those plates? They want to come live with me at my house. </div>
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I have briefly perused her website and a couple of press releases, and even own one of the coffee cups, but those plates? Just what I was looking for.<br />
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I know what you're thinking, And no, I didn't break my "W-store rules." I only bought six of these pretty little plates...and some plate hangers so I could hang them in my dining room. I haven't got them on my wall yet, but I will soon. In the meantime, take a look at some of my "Pin-spiration" from Pinterest.<br />
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<img src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/4a/84/0e/4a840e011bc276b3c79ce85e4b79fd87.jpg" /></div>
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[<a href="http://www.lesliefehling.com/2011/09/hand-painted-tile-fireplace-surround.html">source</a>] </div>
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I really can't wait for you to see what I do next :)</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span><br />
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<br />Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-81113751227999065242015-10-21T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-21T00:00:00.920-04:00Wordless Wednesday Happy Wednesday! Hope you are having a great week!<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://scontent-mia1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12115743_10100670692309472_3736882106604483064_n.jpg?oh=8cae80e418f50c66838553dc1db8a386&oe=56C91982" width="400" /><br />
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<img height="465" src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce34b3127cceea0b9be4e66f00000030O18AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720151015230825387.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" width="640" /><br />
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<img height="465" src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce34b3127cceea0a4c62076600000030O18AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720151015230916449.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" width="640" /><br />
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<img height="400" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpl1/v/t1.0-9/p720x720/11222119_10100671506976872_2900347556772162692_n.jpg?oh=a8deb96293a743dcc426577cb0b838e5&oe=568E0978" width="400" /><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span></div>
Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-18375988976777327132015-10-20T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-20T00:00:04.553-04:00Tuesday: Decorating on a dimeWe've been working on our dining room since we moved in. It's a nice size, it has some large windows that let in lots of great natural light, and the wall mouldings make it look really nice. Plus, the hardwood floor is really pretty.<br />
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What isn't pretty is the builder grade light fixture and the lack of decorating.<br />
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We recently purchased a new (to us) dining room set that has helped the room tremendously. This didn't solve the lack of decor problems, but it gave us a roomier table for meals and did make it look like a dining room for "grown ups."<br />
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<img height="465" src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5d622b3127ccee99217ed0afa00000030O18AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720150803152317082.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" width="640" /></div>
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This weekend, I purchased a painter's drop cloth for the sole purpose of creating these knock-off curtains in my dining room. I am still searching for a long enough curtain rod that isn't too expensive.<br />
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<img alt="Pottery Barn Knock-Off! DROP CLOTH Curtains! $10 per 6'x9' pannel!: " height="195" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/23/89/e5/2389e5324a84e2c80e05f793f729cd0a.jpg" width="200" /></div>
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[<a href="http://www.beneathmyheart.net/2009/09/kitchen-curtains-and-fall-giveaway/">source</a>]</div>
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I also have some additional wall decor in the works- something that will only cost me the price of the frames. I am excited about how this room is finally taking shape! </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span></div>
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-26978580188181682882015-10-19T00:00:00.001-04:002015-10-19T00:00:03.580-04:00Getting organized Mondays: desk drawers In the past few months, we have organized so many drawers and closets at our house, but some of them still remain in need of help. I wanted to devote one a day a week to a small organizational project, and preferably, a free organizing project :) This one is both.<br />
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Our office desk drawers were not that bad, but they definitely could use a little help. They certainly could use a little "prettying up."<br />
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<img height="290" src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce36b3127cceea36d0bab7a700000030O08AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720151018002251762.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" width="400" /></div>
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I used scrapbook paper to line the drawers because I had a bunch of it, and most of it was pretty!<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce36b3127cceea36ff36769400000030O18AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720151018002409190.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D1/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" /></div>
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I already had the clear trays; I found them at a local dollar store a few years ago.<br />
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<img src="https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a5ce36b3127cceea363bf3f70300000030O08AbuWbRo1cOAe3nwM/cC/f%3D0/ls%3D00008854439720151018002548474.JPG/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/" /></div>
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I think the overall result is way better, don't you? And best of all, this project cost us nothing.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span>Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-70578945317777063292015-10-18T21:20:00.000-04:002015-10-18T21:20:54.841-04:00Getting to Know You! 15 random facts about me...just for fun.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0sVcm0GFwrIBaHPjWk-wHRrHKbYFOwdxaQ5q_2wXkGVLU7ZkAMBdzUCI01ws3Pqvc2aN61qCVL3wCi9DvCw_gQsXLSQOe5Scl6ks0ac-d7cLTsmvH3Hwh2mB_NNiQ6Sc9R8ULsaTmQ/s1600/DSC_8793a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0sVcm0GFwrIBaHPjWk-wHRrHKbYFOwdxaQ5q_2wXkGVLU7ZkAMBdzUCI01ws3Pqvc2aN61qCVL3wCi9DvCw_gQsXLSQOe5Scl6ks0ac-d7cLTsmvH3Hwh2mB_NNiQ6Sc9R8ULsaTmQ/s320/DSC_8793a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The basics, that you probably already know: I spent most of my life living in the country and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I'm a Christian who is working on getting her life back on track after a period of stumbling blindly/backsliding. I'm a wife for almost seven years now, a mother of one four year old girl, and am five weeks away from our due date- it's another girl. We also have a yellow labrador mix named Bear and a tortoiseshell cat named Annie Sue (yes, after Annie Oakley).<br />
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And now for the random facts :)<br />
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15. I once bragged to my now husband, then acquaintance, that I never burned food when I cook. The first time I cooked for him, I made chicken on the grill. Guess what happened?<br />
14 When we found out our four year old was a girl, I was initially worried, since I had grown up in a family full of boys. I knew nothing about girls! It didn't take long to realize that I wouldn't have it any other way.<br />
13. When we learned that our youngest daughter (not yet born) was a girl, we both admitted we'd secretly wanted another girl all along.<br />
12. I am a teacher, but if I could quit tomorrow and be a farmer, I'd do it without a thought.<br />
11. I love to garden! There is something about growing your own veggies that just makes them taste better.<br />
10. I don't wear make up in the summer, except to church. It is so hot here in NC in the summer that I often feel like there is no point.<br />
09. Ree Drummond, AKA The Pioneer Woman, is my spirit animal. LOL No, all kidding aside, if I could hang out with her for just a day, I bet we'd have a blast.<br />
08. I love cleaning and organizing, but I do not love doing the laundry.<br />
07. I am always jealous of people who can draw, sing or play an instrument. I can do none of those things and I really wish I could.<br />
06. I have started writing a book several times but have never finished it. Maybe someday.<br />
05. I love to read but don't often have time to read- so I make a book list and try to work my way through it in the summer.<br />
04. I don't care if people know my age or weight. I am not self conscious about either one of those things.<br />
03. I love running, and I cannot wait until the doctor clears me to start running again.<br />
02. I once was put on stage to sing in church as a kid. I froze and stood there like a deer in the headlights. I still hate being in front of others.<br />
01. I adopted my cat from a shelter and my dog was rescued from a former smart alleck of a neighbor who took great joy in telling me he was taking him to the pound. I confiscated and kept him :)Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-24237823014814640702015-10-17T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-17T10:52:19.397-04:00Weekend reading Hope you all have had a fantastic week- we have had a quick and busy week, and had every intention of having a busy weekend. This weekend, we were supposed to go to the park with some friends, and go to the pumpkin patch, and get a few last minute things done before baby comes. Then we all woke up feeling bad and didn't get to do any of it. But before next week gets here, why don't we do a little recap of this week?<br>
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On Monday, I began the week by sharing a few tips for <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/getting-organized-before-baby-how-to.html">not letting baby gear take over the house. </a><br>
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On Tuesday, I shared <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/diy-gift-ideas-homemade-hand-scrub.html">a DIY gift idea:</a><br>
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On Wednesday, <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/wordless-wednesday_14.html">I shared some photos that I took this week,</a> and one of them was a super sweet picture of my daddy with Emorie. </div>
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On Thursday, I shared a throwback post <a href="http://organizedandsimplified.blogspot.com/2015/10/recent-travels.html">about a local orchard where we are going today. </a></div>
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On Friday, I showed off some neat uses for tin cans. </div>
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Hope you're having a fantastic weekend. Here is what you can expect this week at Organized and Simplified: </div>
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1. Monday: Thrift store finds </div>
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2. Tuesday: High/low knockoffs </div>
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3. Wordless Wednesday </div>
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4. Getting organized Thursdays </div>
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5. DIY FRidays: Upcycling Plastic Containers </div>
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And, here are some great articles I enjoyed this week, that you will probably enjoy: </div>
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<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2665/spookiest-ghost-towns-in-america/">Spookiest Ghost Towns in America</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/g2842/trading-spaces-where-are-they-now/">Catching Up with the Trading Spaces Team</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/shopping-storing/beverages/make-latte-at-home">How to Make a Latte Like a Barista</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing/wardrobe-basics/fall-wardrobe-tips">5 Layering Hacks to Instantly Expand Your Wardrobe</a></div>
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Have a great week! </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span></div>
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-68965311642391942702015-10-16T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-16T00:00:02.158-04:00DIY'ing with upcycled "garbage": tin cansOne man's junk is another man's treasure. We go through a lot of cans at our house, and while we usually throw them away or recycle them, it recently occurred to me just how many things we could do with the cans. I decided that it would be a good idea to see what I could do with those cans.<br />
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1. DIY storage:<br />
Put some pretty scrapbook or contact paper on those cans and use them for storage. I use the black and white cans in my crafting cabinet to hold scissors, Sharpies and paint pens, and even a contact paper-covered Oatmeal can for storing pipe cleaners.<br />
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2. Turn them into decor!<br />
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I found these great printable vintage can labels on Pinterest, and I printed several of them off on our printer. Wrap them around your cans and you've got some "antique" cans you can display! I am going to ask the cafeteria at my school if they'll give me one of the large cans so I can wrap a pretty label around it and use it as a vase.<br />
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How pretty would the pumpkin can be with some light pink flowers in it?<br />
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3.Candle holders/tea lights<br />
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I didn't do this one, but I may try it soon- I'd love to make these tea light holders for our porch this coming summer!<br />
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<img alt="Garden Lanterns #tin cans: " src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/31/f7/9f/31f79f60aa7b01753880e2d02f689c46.jpg" /></div>
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[<a href="http://www.finegardening.com/how-to/articles/garden-lanterns.aspx">source</a>]</div>
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Here is another similar idea: </div>
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<img alt="Fun Summer Nights Call for Tin Can Lanterns | Fox News Magazine: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/28/97/a3/2897a3c7e5bd2f83cc2736897584867d.jpg" width="361" /></div>
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[<a href="http://magazine.foxnews.com/at-home/fun-summer-nights-call-tin-can-lanterns">source</a>] </div>
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4. Seasonal decor: </div>
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I didn't make this one either, but I'd like to. Here are some cute seasonal craft ideas you can make from tin cans. </div>
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<img alt="Snowman from tomato paste can...I think my kids can do this for our holiday present!!! Christine!!!!: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/54/da/1b/54da1bf673fc0724812fa93524e36d76.jpg" width="307" /></div>
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[<a href="http://debrapate.blogspot.com/2011/12/frosty-snowman.html">source</a>] </div>
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And how cool is this advent calendar? </div>
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<img alt="Recycled Tin Can Advent Calendar and 50 family activities #skiptomylou: " src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/85/aa/c1/85aac1d300e8fb75e3104d34193dab75.jpg" /></div>
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[<a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/2011/11/29/recycled-tin-can-advent-calendar-50-family-activities/">source</a>] </div>
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Have you made any neat things with tin cans? </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span><br />
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-76415731213927015972015-10-15T00:00:00.001-04:002015-10-15T06:12:36.127-04:00Recent "travels" After a super busy and stressful two weeks, we are going to have a weekend of fun and family time. We are planning to go to Millstone Creek Orchards, which is just a stone's throw from where I work. We have been there before, but it has been a few years. To be exact, Emorie was 15 months:<br />
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<img height="307" src="https://scontent-mia1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/524907_881951131142_917036989_n.jpg?oh=035c34e72fc8007be7a4ab3d9be4ae0e&oe=5698F3F0" width="400" /></div>
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In the pumpkin patch! </div>
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And with a "friend" she made: </div>
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Now she's four and able to choose her own pumpkin! We are planning to go back to Millstone Creek this weekend and let her choose a pumpkin. She is so excited!<br />
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There is also a gift shop, where you can buy fall decor, jams and jellies, and other foods. You can pick apples, blueberries, and peaches, as well as go on hayrides and visit the pumpkin patch in the fall.<br />
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Here is the website in case you want to check it out: <a href="http://millstonecreekorchards.com/">Millstone Creek Orchards</a><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span><br />
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-9326805034965541832015-10-14T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-15T17:11:21.163-04:00Wordless Wednesday <div style="text-align: center;">
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Too pretty not to share again. </div>
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My daughter visiting my dad in the hospital. Thanks for praying for him! </div>
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<img alt="Post your #PrayerRequest on Instapray.com Download the free prayer app. #Pray with the world -----> www.instapray.com: " height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/bf/1d/cc/bf1dcc6c0fdad20caf09a4bd15c13aa5.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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[<a href="http://www.instapray.com/">source</a>]<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/v/t1.0-9/12079511_10100669568636322_4735431457385112557_n.jpg?oh=8b95f2b86cdb610a4de47cbd3d4d34b6&oe=56CBE484" width="400" /><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span></div>
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-32590984313450959862015-10-13T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-13T00:00:00.555-04:00DIY gift ideas: Homemade Hand Scrub Today, I'm taking a break from my typical recipe post to bring you a different kind of recipe. A recipe for a DIY gift idea: Homemade hand scrub!<br />
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This is by no means an original idea. I've seen this all over Pinterest, and I've even received a few jars of this from students as a gift. We are actually now making a few jars of this not only for ourselves, but for teachers and some of the women in our family. </div>
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First, you will need a small container. We have found that small Mason jars work the best.<br />
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Next, fill your jars 2/3 of the way full of Sugar in the Raw. You can find this at any grocery store. </div>
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Then, fill the jar 1/3 full of Dawn Hand Renewal Dish Soap. Stir well. </div>
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You want the consistency at this point to be wet but not runny. You may have to add in more sugar/hand soap until the consistency looks like a thick cream. </div>
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This is super cheap and easy to make, and it smells soooo wonderful!! It also makes your hands feel so good.<br />
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I hope you enjoyed this recipe! Now, I'm going to go make some more hand soap. As you can see, I've still got some jars to fill :)<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span></div>
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Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-4576243980527373422015-10-12T00:00:00.000-04:002015-10-12T17:58:11.884-04:00Getting organized before baby: how to keep baby gear from taking over your house <div style="text-align: center;">
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Everyone knows babies require lots of...stuff. And if you're anti-clutter like me, then it's truly easy for all the baby stuff to take over your house and make you crazy. Our house is not big, and the house where we lived when Emorie was born was even smaller. One of the hardest challenges to storing baby items is finding a place to put everything.<br />
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Here are a few ways to combat the storage issues and most of them are pretty easy.<br />
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<b>1. Only bring what you need into your home. </b><br />
A common idea among new parents is that you need everything for your baby before the baby is born. We were guilty of this the first time around, too. Now that we have had one baby, we are more conscious of what we need and when we need it. You can really cut down on the clutter by not bringing things you don't need yet into your home. For example, we are aware that our child won't need a high chair until she is at least six months old. For this reason, the high chair is being stored elsewhere until we need it. Another way to accomplish this is to look for items that are dual purpose. The first time around, we purchased a bassinet, a bouncer seat, a Pack 'n' Play, and several other items that we didn't need altogether. This time, we have realized we don't need a bouncer seat as the Pack 'n' Play has a built in bassinet that has the vibrate feature our bouncer seat had. We sold the bouncer seat. The Pack 'n' Play can be used in place of a co-sleeper or a bassinet, as it has a "newborn napper" attachment.<br />
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<b>2. Donate/consign/pack away baby items that are outgrown/ no longer needed. </b><br />
If there are baby items that your child has outgrown or no longer needs, get them out of the house as soon as they're no longer needed. You can donate them, give them away, or consign them for a little money. If you're planning on having more kids, do what we did and pack them away until they're needed again.<br />
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<b>3. Use "sneaky storage" spots to store things. </b><br />
Crib skirts are your best friend. When baby is tiny, the crib mattress is at its highest point. This provides you with a lot of storage, and the crib skirt will hide the mess. We have underbed storage bags and small plastic totes underneath Aubrey's crib, in which we are storing extra diapers, wipes, baby wash, and other small items.<br />
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<b>4. Try a closet organizer </b><br />
My dad helped us build closet organizer shelves in both girls' closets to give us vertical storage, and this gave us nearly twice the space we had before. Now, we can store things in baskets in the middle of her closet, as well as on the top shelf and in the bottom.<br />
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<b>5. Dresser drawer organizers keep items easily accessible. </b><br />
We have used dollar store containers, old wipes containers and plastic baskets to section off drawers so we can keep items separated and easy to find.<br />
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<b>6. Try some storage furniture. </b><br />
We currently have one tall bookshelf and two cubby shelves in the playroom. We are in the process of getting another vertical shelf. We are going to use the shelves to store items belonging to our older daughter so we can keep items with small parts or art supplies out of baby's reach. We also plan to use the cubby drawers and baskets to corral smaller toys and keep them organized.<br />
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Do you have any tips for managing baby gear and not making your house look like a Babies 'R' Us store? Feel free to share!<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Linking to </span><a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/the-scoop-176/" style="text-align: start;">Stonegable</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://www.worthingcourtblog.com/" style="text-align: start;">Worthing Court</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://cedarhillfarmhouse.com/" style="text-align: start;">Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a><span style="text-align: start;">, </span><a href="http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: start;">Confessions of a Plate Addict</a><span style="text-align: start;">, and </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/" style="text-align: start;">French Country Cottage</a><span style="text-align: start;">!</span><br />
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<br />Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2047293537146346899.post-69594794879112605092015-10-09T06:06:00.001-04:002015-10-09T06:06:18.708-04:00Blogger break! No, I didn't post so much that I broke Blogger. I wanted to let you know things might be a little quieter than usual around here this weekend- we have a lot going on, and I just need to get things done, but also to take a break.<br />
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If you know me, then you already know my dad has stage 4 colon and liver cancer. This week, he underwent his fourth surgery in two years to remove cancerous tumors on his liver- he had this same thing done in January. This time, when doctors operated, they found he had eight more tumors they didn't know about. Wednesday night was a really bad night, but last night he was doing so much better.<br />
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We are working our regular jobs each day, and then driving almost 2 hours to see him at the hospital each night. I am planning to take this weekend off from blogging to rest, get some things done, and most importantly, spend time with my family.<br />
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I'll be back next week. Thanks for understanding.Angela D. Boonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00090281183401236809noreply@blogger.com4