tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14285065992595407412024-03-05T21:38:52.491-06:00Wink and a SmileLive ❦ Laugh ❦ LoveEmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-40848181419752920372020-06-17T17:26:00.003-05:002020-06-17T20:59:06.332-05:00Life and DeathI guess you could say my childhood was chaotic. I definitely did not have the white picket fence, friends living down the road experience. One morning, while I was in elementary school - 4th grade, I believe, my mom woke me very early, we packed a few things and left our little home in Fernley, Nevada. I did not get to say goodbye to my dad. We just left. I was not given a reason. No phone call, No goodbye hug and kiss. Just gone. <div><br /></div><div>She drove us to Oregon to live for a short time with her only sister and her husband - my dear Aunt Pat and Uncle Bruce. Looking back, I imagine there must have been communication between them what was happening. Coming from a small town to an affluent neighborhood - new school in the middle of the school year was not easy. One look at me and it would have been obvious that I did not fit in. There were many embarrassing and shameful moments that I will not go into. I can also say that this would have been the beginning of my severe anxiety and OCD. </div><div><br /></div><div>We stayed there, sharing a bedroom for a short time until we moved out and rented a small house - my mom selling Avon and waitressing to get by. Again, I am sure there was help from my aunt. Another new school, I cannot even remember that one. I would stay with the kids - boys - of a coworker of mom's from the restaurant. That was short lived. After a molestation incident I ran home and when she returned from work I told her I would never go back, saying I was old enough to be home alone. This was a different time - the 70s. Certain topics were not discussed. I doubt she told my dad. Please don't misunderstand - I loved my mom to the moon and back. She was my world. But life was not easy. </div><div><br /></div><div>From there we moved again - to Nevada, Oregon, California, a brief stay with my sister Katie and her family in Utah, Oregon again, another brief stay with my sister and her family again - this time in Wyoming, back to Oregon - different states, different towns. Many new schools, always the new kid. Never easy to make friends - we often were not there long enough to forge those lasting relationships. It wasn't until middle school, in Seaside, that I made friends that would stick. For that I am truly blessed.</div><div><br /></div><div>With my father not in the picture at all during these growing up years and living our vagabond life - we stayed with my brother Mike and his daughter Mari in San Pedro; we moved in with my other brother Buck and his wife and children in Nevada and Oregon; my brothers, brother-in-law Jeff and cousin John became father figures to me. Metaphorically. Again, I was blessed with them filling a role they didn't ask for and probably did not even recognize they were doing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mom and I finally landed in Seaside - this was truly home. We rented a cute little house, we were near my Aunt Pat and Uncle Bruce, Uncle Ron and Aunt Janie and all my cousins. It was blissful. I had friends, babysat for pocket money, roller skated up and down the promenade, was a cheerleader. I loved it! Fate was quick to intervene though - my mom became noticeably ill the fall of my freshman year - I knew she was not well when she did not have the energy to watch me cheer at football games. She was diagnosed with cancer and only a few months later, in January she died. </div><div><br /></div><div>Family thought it best that I move, yet again, with my sister, Katie, brother-in-law, Jeff, and their three great kids in Wyoming. Again I was blessed. I spent my remaining school years there in Lyman - going back to Oregon for summer and Christmas breaks where I would stay with Aunt Pat at her beach house and also with my cousin Amy, her husband John and their three sweet children. I most likely broke my aunt's heart when I did not move back to Oregon after graduation to attend college. She had aspirations for me. But to be honest, I did not think I was smart enough and I definitely was not brave enough. So after school, I stayed in Wyoming - eventually marrying, having children, divorcing and moving. But that is not this story.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our family was never large - my mom had one sister and one brother. Their dad, was not a good man and left the world young but not before hurting his daughters in unspeakable ways. My nana died when I was in elementary. My mother - married too young and had a son - they divorced shortly after my eldest brother, Mike, was born. She remarried and within a short time had three more children - my brother Buck, sisters Katie and Tammy. He left my mom with four young children - just walked out on them - and was not in their lives ever again. Many years later - my mom married again - to my dad, and they had me. The age gap between me and my siblings spanned from 20 to 13 years. With that union, I gained another sister - Judy - my dad's firstborn.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5zje0bGB423JYsH5JI04vOZ0-gXlmUtF0rhgK9Y6YwEQqnZzGw-EyhGmmQGvkWTbGeNlmG9tde52npT_SskW3_Gpe_mUBdmkfnEx2IdTqvUFIzsFNl-IA_baMgeeTn0Xsy-wEJoEWA/s4032/574F0BDE-16C8-4CAC-B338-A62C8689D54B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5zje0bGB423JYsH5JI04vOZ0-gXlmUtF0rhgK9Y6YwEQqnZzGw-EyhGmmQGvkWTbGeNlmG9tde52npT_SskW3_Gpe_mUBdmkfnEx2IdTqvUFIzsFNl-IA_baMgeeTn0Xsy-wEJoEWA/w240-h320/574F0BDE-16C8-4CAC-B338-A62C8689D54B.jpeg" title="Chickie (my mom) and Buck." width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>My brother, Mike, and sister, Tammy, are both gone now. Leaving this life a few short years ago. Yesterday, I received a call that Buck died. So here we are. I am sad and grieving in Iowa; my sister Katie is doing the same, but in Wyoming. My sister-in-law Donna is grieving alone in a care center in Oregon where she cannot leave and cannot have visitors thanks to the Novel Corona Virus Covid-19. She and Buck did not have children together but they shared a lifetime. Married 45 years - Bad Buck the Bandit and Donna the Belle, as their wedding announcement read. </div><div><br /></div><div>I did not have a favorite brother - I loved them equally, but different. Mike was a career Army man, a veteran. Serving selflessly. But sweet, too. Buck was a little softer with me - his awkward little sister - the baby. I remember him driving a cute, blue Mustang when I was a kid. I loved that car! He was mischievous, had a dimpled smile. His pictures from high school show a handsome guy with a sparkle in his eyes. He knew he was a cutie. TROUBLE I'm sure. But he was also unassuming. Often quiet, but observant - nothing got past him. Many mornings, in later years, he would have coffee with Ken Kesey in Pleasant Hill, Oregon - a great American writer of the same era. I wish I could have been a fly on the wall for those conversations!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnJI9OV2C_FaH9hzrajyuoNMzp9dnPuZTbyrulzgurbqS037V52iQ4G2GDuEJeSQsNvrY725UzhedYC3x3w5StVRw6O150aEEKk4gUdV0LUQ__NiKa2SZFch90Ei72ntZJLW7hb_Geg/s1024/1FB96AE3-0733-4A5B-9E0F-B485A69C9BAC.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Donna, Buck and me - sometime in the 80s." border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnJI9OV2C_FaH9hzrajyuoNMzp9dnPuZTbyrulzgurbqS037V52iQ4G2GDuEJeSQsNvrY725UzhedYC3x3w5StVRw6O150aEEKk4gUdV0LUQ__NiKa2SZFch90Ei72ntZJLW7hb_Geg/w200-h200/1FB96AE3-0733-4A5B-9E0F-B485A69C9BAC.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>He expected good manners and that we (me and his children) be respectful - that was a given. I remember him being patient with me. Protective over his, our, mom and family. He and Jeff walked me - practically carried me down the aisle when I got married (I was so nervous). </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTcmjjQJt-1HvZBZdHHHfeFBGUBQy1eu4-LjQEVBjPObWQ1o0meWhEQD0bx1iwdmiOXteixvpw8_ZW9TQSjoAAW-AG8k-_lhu6tSQzvdMROiFXuowr2AxHbpuoTvzLAv9dNeMl1dvzw/s2049/621E245D-92ED-43BD-9362-A66E40EC9A13.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2049" data-original-width="1630" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTcmjjQJt-1HvZBZdHHHfeFBGUBQy1eu4-LjQEVBjPObWQ1o0meWhEQD0bx1iwdmiOXteixvpw8_ZW9TQSjoAAW-AG8k-_lhu6tSQzvdMROiFXuowr2AxHbpuoTvzLAv9dNeMl1dvzw/s320/621E245D-92ED-43BD-9362-A66E40EC9A13.jpeg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The rock of the family. I hit a low spot in high school. Few know this but I did not want to live. Getting word of this, my aunt sent Buck and Donna to retrieve me over Thanksgiving to bring me back to Seaside for an extended visit. I remember a knock at my window in the very early hours of the morning - there they were. They took me out to breakfast, wanting to see for themselves how I was doing. After Thanksgiving dinner with Katie and the family we left for Oregon. My rock.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWTGQCk4feFasAtDxrE2JeX1nLc728U1D3mdOoazYxGtIiyvZV9C4gpjLpC8owPYKDX9SnzVrcnGXAMF651brtvXFUkLQ1XugFq1oq5Tz1kh6T_dprZGb72uMD9GiKbI2lKLD0A-Nvw/s2049/28C75B85-3CC9-47F2-A1FB-75F8E555EA34.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2049" data-original-width="1537" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWTGQCk4feFasAtDxrE2JeX1nLc728U1D3mdOoazYxGtIiyvZV9C4gpjLpC8owPYKDX9SnzVrcnGXAMF651brtvXFUkLQ1XugFq1oq5Tz1kh6T_dprZGb72uMD9GiKbI2lKLD0A-Nvw/s320/28C75B85-3CC9-47F2-A1FB-75F8E555EA34.jpeg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Being so much younger, I do not share the same memories or experiences as my sibs. Buck and Tammy remembered everything! I was always amazed at their skills. So with the passing of three of my siblings not only are there huge holes in our family, but history is also lost. My heart aches - for Donna who is alone. For Buck's children and grandchildren. For me and my kids - they so loved their Uncle Buck! But also for my sister Katie - who has last her last full blood family member. Their shared childhoods, memories. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaX2VXuSgRAJZ9zaO8qJWI37836j7VPk_ChYvB_xmYKM75caPbAY63y06osqtg2_19dddXYuQ7fh_gHKH05fjws5s-NHbEsPtBcexQJmYX9tPZlpZz_Rtt-6-id9FbHBQRQoMrqeusg/s1440/104003350_10158478577550960_4413835978030956066_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="955" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaX2VXuSgRAJZ9zaO8qJWI37836j7VPk_ChYvB_xmYKM75caPbAY63y06osqtg2_19dddXYuQ7fh_gHKH05fjws5s-NHbEsPtBcexQJmYX9tPZlpZz_Rtt-6-id9FbHBQRQoMrqeusg/s320/104003350_10158478577550960_4413835978030956066_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Buck was 70 and was coming up on another birthday July 4. All of his children share July birthdays. He made friends easily. Was a craftsman - leatherworker, hard worker, loved his family, adored his wife Donna (he could often be found sharing a lunch with her outside of her window (since the lockdown due to the pandemic). He was a no-BS kind of guy. Loved fishing and sharing wisdom. Missed by many. Missed by me.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagwFlhcX0cZKqCEP19zgATw5HozoWbBd6gqH8Y3iX1W07szshKQWnOr0B_fpLMyWDDh0e6yw835oLWT5y2OG-0jLNAt9mCpGdmdTe2dafaH6P1dTFBBZRl-PHKbB-RagIkzxMOM2whg/s1440/B556780F-4263-4B1F-894A-46EA9C24897F.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagwFlhcX0cZKqCEP19zgATw5HozoWbBd6gqH8Y3iX1W07szshKQWnOr0B_fpLMyWDDh0e6yw835oLWT5y2OG-0jLNAt9mCpGdmdTe2dafaH6P1dTFBBZRl-PHKbB-RagIkzxMOM2whg/s320/B556780F-4263-4B1F-894A-46EA9C24897F.jpeg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE469SWgsv15T82jrYki-b3Fpev9-6x3mPtSyvg2zuSSVpPHxaKQ7_xb7Gc2u5PcjdBfzRFyY1vTj5Q9ku6yP9T1hfoUeDzCnivydUxhX5JBH1u75XTHXLG5N0DvVpH01KItXNbbj9Sw/s2048/1DB6E63A-6B1F-464E-A9C4-F57071C4A358.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE469SWgsv15T82jrYki-b3Fpev9-6x3mPtSyvg2zuSSVpPHxaKQ7_xb7Gc2u5PcjdBfzRFyY1vTj5Q9ku6yP9T1hfoUeDzCnivydUxhX5JBH1u75XTHXLG5N0DvVpH01KItXNbbj9Sw/s320/1DB6E63A-6B1F-464E-A9C4-F57071C4A358.jpeg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-73005519312253896182017-06-22T22:36:00.001-05:002017-06-22T22:57:56.335-05:00At Peace<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VzqQp0SHmenVOY5lQNE4iEkQRAe1HZqm4kGhT8kePs1xdV1qlQHw6FxkEwnWbUABO7-1NClO-tDxOpBTXQmywU6Ru57DucbJRCpBqrnl_b3g-m_PbKG7JPcDg8OOO3oLbENUTzdY1A/s1600/FullSizeRender.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/AVvXsEg3VzqQp0SHmenVOY5lQNE4iEkQRAe1HZqm4kGhT8kePs1xdV1qlQHw6FxkEwnWbUABO7-1NClO-tDxOpBTXQmywU6Ru57DucbJRCpBqrnl_b3g-m_PbKG7JPcDg8OOO3oLbENUTzdY1A/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="248" /></a>This is one of my favorite pictures of her. Here she is young and beautiful, a full life still ahead of her. Looking confident in her 30s. This is my sister, Tamara Alice. She died unexpectedly Wednesday, June 20 in Oregon.<br />
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Tammy was a mother to three: James, Deana and Jesse. She was a sister to Mike, Buck, Katie, me. She was a grandmother. She was a daughter. She was a cousin and an aunt. She was a friend. She was preceded in death by our mother, Charlene "Chick" and brother, Mike.<br />
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Life for Tammy wasn't easy. Her road was long and rough. But throughout her trials she always loved her family, delighted in telling funny jokes, making people laugh and smile. Tammy remembered everything - she could recount events from her childhood, playing with our cousins and siblings. I loved to listen to her stories. Her favorite place to be was on the beach.<br />
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Thirteen years my senior, she wasn't thrilled when I was born. Who can blame her? Being the little one for so long, would make most people a little jealous. But she still loved me.<br />
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My life is a little darker without her in it. Words are few. I ponder if there is a heaven, an afterlife. Times like these, I like to hope there is. I imagine her sitting with our mom and brother, Mike, sharing laughs. Smiling. Finally feeling and knowing she is loved.<br />
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Please tell your family you love them, often. We only have right now. Tomorrow isn't promised.<br />
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I love you, Sis, to infinity and beyond, forever and ever.<br />
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<br />Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-68703976532883899812017-02-05T20:13:00.002-06:002017-02-06T10:45:52.949-06:00Jackalopes, Bows and a Jack Russell PuppyMy brother-in-law, Jeff, from Wyoming recently visited us in Iowa. He stopped here for a few days on his way, and back, to lend a hand with some friends for a bow hunt in Alabama with the Physically Challenged Bowhunters of America. Jeff is a key organizer for the Wyoming hunt each fall and makes new friends from around the country. Recently retired, he and my sister plan on traveling and are looking forward to this new chapter in their lives. Unfortunately, she wasn't able to make it out this time.<br />
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This presented a unique opportunity to spend some time with my BIL. He's been a huge part of my life since I was five-years-old. The Jeff I know isn't a man of many words, dislikes crowds - he is a rugged miner, hunter, outdoorsman. Not the gentle, sensitive type (maybe he is to my sister) but not to the rest of the world. But he is quick to donate his time or a freshly crafted bow to local fundraisers, offer assistance to a friend or neighbor - he's an all-around great guy.<br />
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Living in rural Wyoming in the mid-eighties, there were many professional services that you would have to travel out of state for, such as visiting my orthodontist for braces and the maintenance that is required with having them. There were a few times Jeff would have to take me to Ogden, Utah for that upkeep. My sister was busy with their three young children and they were saddled with the awesome task of taking on a teenager after the deaths of my parents.<br />
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A trip to Utah with my BIL consisted of: completing the task at hand, such as brace-face annoying teen getting her braces tightened (does anyone remember how uncomfortable that was?); a stop at the archery/gun store (oh YAY!); a visit to the military surplus shop (WHY?); home store for a new tool or two; and rounding out the day at the boat dealership (with me wishing he would get a ski boat and not just a fishing boat - that never happened!). Sadly, even though we were in the city, I would not be shopping at the mall or going to the movies (however when my sis took me that's what we would do).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEyRGA7me_SbRjDyDgqVLut6jwWAjUs0OGX21nb2H3vTbrDar26Nj4p9B7IFfIiyOh8C7GjmyQB6z7t7Ov_9oLUQDPrJBsfGGjC81kFWhD9xIeQkXh0Tv8SAcHnaxBGKsEIFWfV0_qbw/s1600/IMG_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEyRGA7me_SbRjDyDgqVLut6jwWAjUs0OGX21nb2H3vTbrDar26Nj4p9B7IFfIiyOh8C7GjmyQB6z7t7Ov_9oLUQDPrJBsfGGjC81kFWhD9xIeQkXh0Tv8SAcHnaxBGKsEIFWfV0_qbw/s400/IMG_0009.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lise and Jeff at Antique Archaeology.</td></tr>
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So here we are, over 30 years later, in rural Iowa with a visit from Jeff. We had a great time checking out the nearby cute town of Le Claire with a stop at Antique Archaeology and lunch in a historic old colonial with a view of the Mississippi River. We took several jaunts to local attractions: the Amana Colonies, a drive along the Mississippi from Muscatine to Davenport, the local solar farm in Frytown. And we ate out - a lot! Jeff has friends all over the country and we broke bread with a hunter buddy of his (Gary and his wife Amy) - we are blessed to call them our friends, too. It's always fun to catch up!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwtvZjVGfdVgmjGLgLOpTkETEt4tepImMsBsKhtyzWNLEDPWNKQ8PdPhWlM3jY3rRSShBNcJz8Plta9nU1A0dSLw-yPtCkyuA1YPNK6rY9c5gEoSHVmC04pcZmoThqn0EUQ1gBKCwxA/s1600/IMG_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwtvZjVGfdVgmjGLgLOpTkETEt4tepImMsBsKhtyzWNLEDPWNKQ8PdPhWlM3jY3rRSShBNcJz8Plta9nU1A0dSLw-yPtCkyuA1YPNK6rY9c5gEoSHVmC04pcZmoThqn0EUQ1gBKCwxA/s200/IMG_0002.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New jackalope PJs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpqcpwoPen2tvYVqMoXy6LGqQEaPK6WqlYpeKdLZ3CEGVDyBh9Tuon5Lu0OC2j8CjEEaAbHBBibkIyT-oMm-RbH681dztl6bqxXS6DVHtdFpOmo4tzdGSJEpoiVT3q-gSHff_JOV1LQ/s1600/IMG_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpqcpwoPen2tvYVqMoXy6LGqQEaPK6WqlYpeKdLZ3CEGVDyBh9Tuon5Lu0OC2j8CjEEaAbHBBibkIyT-oMm-RbH681dztl6bqxXS6DVHtdFpOmo4tzdGSJEpoiVT3q-gSHff_JOV1LQ/s200/IMG_0017.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeff accused me of spending his money! <br />
Looks like he didn't need my help at the candy <br />
store in Le Claire.</td></tr>
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But tucked in among these trips was a visit to Gander Mountain in Davenport where we looked at barbecue grills and smokers, ammo and clothing. He left empty-handed but my daughter and I each scored a cute pair of pajama pants adorned with jackalopes. We also stopped at the Buffalo Bill Museum where we spent a couple of hours learning a bit about the wild-haired man from long ago, steamboats on the river, and life in the past. We did not go to the mall, but we did peruse our local Costco looking for good deals (he was intrigued enough to possibly join) and we found just the perfect hooded zipper jacket he had been looking for at Kohl's (on sale, too).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hill Hardwood - ebony.</td></tr>
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I did not think I would ever have a reason to stop into a military surplus store again - but I was wrong. Jeff found the waterproof bags he was wanting, to keep his sleeping bags dry, for an upcoming goose hunting trip to the Dakotas. A visit into our local oil/vinegar store was not without sharing cooking and seasoning ideas with the storekeeper (glad he isn't shy). We also stopped by Hill Hardwood Supply in Iowa City for a piece of ebony. He uses this beautiful wood in the risers on the longbows he makes. The week was topped off with a stop at Bass Pro Shops near Des Moines where we looked at boats, archery stuff, ammo and guns. Some things never change!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeff's copilot for his trip home.</td></tr>
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He left with his truck a little heavier from the goodies he purchased as well as a tiny, little Jack Russell Terrier puppy. From the day he got here, he kept talking about finding a JRT pup. Mission accomplished - to the ire of my sis. I hope she starts talking to me again!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local fave - Pagliai's Pizza in Iowa City.</td></tr>
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Our time together was filled with talk of politics, hope for the future, losses he and Katie have suffered, happy times remembered, stories of the past, ideas for cooking (he is a great cook), sharing stories of his friends and the funny pranks they've pulled on each other. It was a great trip! We spent time with Tim, Lise, Taylor and Libby - it makes my heart happy when we get to be with family. I will cherish the time we had and am grateful to have him in my life.<br />
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<br />Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-47509935007823997982015-04-19T12:58:00.000-05:002015-04-19T12:58:00.447-05:00Fun Finds from Sisters GardenOoh-la-la - found some great treasures at Sisters and Bloom in rural Kalona, Saturday.<br />
What's in the bag?<br />
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These tea towels are just too much, too cute, too fun! Love them!<br />
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Hmmm...what else, is in there? Oh, just a pair of sweet vintage hobnail plates!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">Annie B Caramels - there were four, but I just couldn't resist a sweet treat. These were on Oprah's Favorite Things last Christmas. They are divine</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh, local honey - yummy! Great for keeping allergies at bay, too.<br /></td></tr>
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These soaps... The two on the left are handmade, one is Fruit Loops scent - Tim's favorite. It truly smells like the cereal! Of course I can't remember what the top one is but it smells great - fresh, with a hint of flowers. The bar on the right is Pre de Provence, Jasmine. These are favorites of mine. Pre de Provence soaps are made in France with natural ingredients. Oh so luxurious.<br />
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The plates cleaned up nicely and match well with my pretty glasses from Pier One. Whipped up a batch of homemade guacamole and poured fresh lemonade. Pleased as punch with the great finds at Sisters and Bloom! </div>
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<b>Claudia's Guacamole</b><br />
Avacados - mashed<br />
Red Onion - finely chopped<br />
Cherry Tomatoes - diced<br />
Garlic Powder<br />
Season Salt<br />
Parsley Flakes<br />
Spoon of Lemon Juice - to prevent browning<br />
Spoon of Olive Oil<br />
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My Bahamian friend, Claudia, didn't give me amounts - so I just eyeballed and added to taste. Of course, it's fabulous when she makes it. She's a great cook!<br />
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Happy Sunday,<br />
xo - Em<br />
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<br />Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-34431537077135352582013-02-16T23:32:00.000-06:002013-02-17T14:13:25.853-06:00Snail Mail Love Swap and a Lazy Dog on a Saturday Night<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey living large on Saturday night - watching "Too Cute" on Animal Planet. Just living the dream!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My super-cool V-day surprise from my Snail Mail Love Swap buddy. Isn't she so craftylicious? I love it! There were also tons of other cute and fun goodies in my package: adorbs paperclips (make work fun), heart pencils, a sweet owl Valentine and lots more. I was very spoiled! Thank you!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A couple of gifties for my Snail Mail Love Swap buddy. I just love the mugs from Starbucks that you can personalize. I put a fun polka dot print sheet of scrapbook paper in her mug but I hope she makes it all her own with photos or cool quotes. Had to include fine tip Sharpies - they are my fave! Oh, and some chocolate. :) Hope she liked it. Thank you thank you thank you to Kendra Pryor for organizing this swap. What a great way to connect and make new friends!</td></tr>
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Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-91924037730905467372012-11-18T19:59:00.000-06:002012-11-18T20:35:30.660-06:00NewBo City Market Rocks!We checked out a dynamic new shopping venue in Cedar Rapids this past weekend and it is fresh, fun, creative - all things wonderful. It's only been open a few weeks but judging from the crowds it's a raving success.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smoothie samples and friendly staff at Get Fresh!</td></tr>
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Analise loved the smoothie and juice samples at Get Fresh - Bo. She even tried the It's Not Easy Being Green and said it was wonderful! They use fresh, healthy, good-for-you ingredients. Mmmmm...good! Her favorite was Strawberry Fields Forever. How fun are the names? Love it!<br />
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Most of the booths had samples. The lines were long, the place was packed, but it is worth it. P.H.A.T. Daddy's at the Market has hot, hot, HOT barbecue sauces (a few mild ones, too). We scored a bottle of their red pepper jelly (tasty poured over cream cheese as a dip) and a bottle of mild BBQ sauce. Can't beat P.H.A.T. Daddy's!<br />
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Of course, we couldn't leave without buying a sweet cupcake from That One Cupcake Place. Make that <b>SIX</b> cupcakes. Pretty and delish!<br />
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I absolutely love the concept of NewBo City Market. Bringing together local companies, vendors, craftspeople in a cooperative spirit to sell fresh food and products in an open market style. It's housed large building in an area of Cedar Rapids (New Bohemia district) that has struggled since the flood of 2008. NewBo Market is one of many projects to revitalize the neighborhood. The local flair and entrepreneurial spirit is encouraging and is a win-win for the community, consumers and businesses.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbpwdxjTKuvbjyxSTu3uLTwcHuBFnJ4MaPWgVjZoJ4QTYz6bO1n6BWCgKzR08_GshO0w7Q8S5pdhcS4koUVK7b4XLG7xm-SeMbq60Pxx-UA6fYQ_sNJRh9L0tfcOgtCEvz0Kq46zFFPw/s1600/IMG_8275.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/AVvXsEhbpwdxjTKuvbjyxSTu3uLTwcHuBFnJ4MaPWgVjZoJ4QTYz6bO1n6BWCgKzR08_GshO0w7Q8S5pdhcS4koUVK7b4XLG7xm-SeMbq60Pxx-UA6fYQ_sNJRh9L0tfcOgtCEvz0Kq46zFFPw/s320/IMG_8275.JPG" width="320" /></a>You can get breakfast, lunch, dinner from the many food vendors. There are flavors from all over the world: La Reyna, Caribbean Kitchen, Greyhound Deli, Iowa Soul Food Company, JoJo's Asian Foods, Russian Delights, Zaytoon Mediterranean Grill, Big Boy Meats. If you want to shop for home a dinner party you can pick up pasta and sauce from Pappardelle's Pasta, coffee from Roasters, fresh produce from Morgan Creek, cheese from NewBo Cheese Co., bread/rolls from Betty and Bobo's Better Breads and after-dinner desserts from Christopher Ryan Confections.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NewBo City Market is a fun place to gather, shop, each and chat.</td></tr>
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Fresh flowers? Bark and Bloom. Snacks? CR Popcorn Shop. Unique, handcrafted jewelry, gift and more. Seriously - you can't go wrong. It's a sensory experience shopping at NewBo. Check it out! You won't be disappointed. xo - EmEmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-83407643902485068382012-10-04T15:53:00.000-05:002012-10-04T15:53:14.329-05:00Golden GirlOur Golden Retriever, Miss Zoey, after a day at the lake! It was her first time and I think the look on her face says it all!<br />
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Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-2858405954992586112012-10-03T23:22:00.001-05:002012-10-03T23:22:36.168-05:00Move In Day at UNI<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-Z-KE5bYv2QYsDQZcnnk4X1qQMqr5dl6NtV3FNNK-NCzrvSF9oTHy2UgfkvemlGiWH-X_O-zA3aJdg8xC8JcwHYgxFPv-UfRcMcjwTlMVr_abimlhGjY9-ZTZ20293PTjNj1IoTSEw/s1600/IMG_20120812_173424.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/AVvXsEi7-Z-KE5bYv2QYsDQZcnnk4X1qQMqr5dl6NtV3FNNK-NCzrvSF9oTHy2UgfkvemlGiWH-X_O-zA3aJdg8xC8JcwHYgxFPv-UfRcMcjwTlMVr_abimlhGjY9-ZTZ20293PTjNj1IoTSEw/s320/IMG_20120812_173424.jpg" width="240" /></a>Another school year is upon us and we've been busy at our little house in Joetown. T just started his second year at UNI. He went to Cedar Falls a week early for marching band (go Panthers!) and of course the one day we move him it on this summer of drought it was pouring, POURING rain. He has a new (used) loft that he bought from a former UNI student - it's a double loft and T doesn't live on the first floor anymore. I'm sure it was quite a sight watching us maneuver 14' long boards up <b>FIVE</b> flights of stairs. Luckily we were able to take the rest of his things up in the elevator. <br />
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Miss A was a good big sister and climbed up on the loft and made her baby brother's bed for him. Awww... We left a couple of hours later than we'd planned and shared pizza in his dorm when we were done moving and unpacking.<br />
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So he's gone and of course there were a few things he forgot. His roommate, and classmate from Mid-Prairie, was coming home overnight so I thought it would be nice if I made a few treats for them along with the bag of items he forgot. T requested various cords that I wasn't quite sure if I knew what they were so I'd take pics with my cell phone and text them to him for confirmation. The main thing he wanted was his bike lock. So I packed a bag filled to the hilt with goodies, cords, some clothes, popcorn bowl. He loves, loves, LOVES Biscoff Spread and white chocolate/almond hot chocolate. Mmmmm... good! Bag successfully packed, picked up by his roomie and delivered to T. But, one thing was missing...</div>
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I forgot the bike lock! :/</div>
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xo - Em</div>
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Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-67130350688667305222012-05-20T18:20:00.000-05:002012-05-20T18:20:28.136-05:00May You Always Have a Shell in Your Pocket and Sand in Your ShoesFor years, each summer, I see my dear friend Jamie for only a few hours. It's a far cry from the many hours and days we've spent together over the years: from when we met as coworkers at a credit union, and the countless hours together with our kids and trips to Bear Lake, Park City, the park. We became fast friends working side by side at that small credit union. Each of our three kids were close in age and got along well. About 14 years ago, I moved out of state. I go back each summer for a week or two but the time passes quickly and other obligations keep me from spending more than a couple of hours with Jamie.<br />
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Last year, she said to me, "You aren't supposed to be stressed on vacation - you should be relaxed. You need to go to the beach with me." Yeah, right! I thought. She reminded me the kids are older - out of high school. It would be relaxing, wonderful, quiet. Just laying on the beach, reading, whatever. It would be OK!<br />
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I'm not sure I ever imagined I really would meet her in Florida at her sister's condo. It seemed so far away. I also felt unsure, guilty to go on a vacation without my family, selfish to spend time like that on me, embarrassed to get in a swimsuit (I don't like how I look and need to lose some weight). But in spite of all that and with her persistence I agreed. Really, I just didn't want to talk about it anymore and figured it wouldn't go any further.<br />
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I was wrong.<br />
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Jamie, being so incredibly giving and generous, booked the flights, arranged the dates, rented the car - basically took care of everything. All I had to do was pack a few things and get to the airport. Feelings of guilt kept me from telling anybody right away. Seriously, I'm not the type of person to go on a vacation without my family! She even thought I would back out.<br />
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But I didn't.<br />
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So on a cool morning in May, Tim drove me to the airport in Des Moines and I headed south. Jamie and her sister had been there a week already. They were both tan and content. I had one week with them in Florida on the white sand beach of Navarre. It was wonderful. We picked shells from the beach and in the warm water of the Gulf, we laughed, laid out on the beach (with lots of sunscreen, of course), went to neighboring tourist towns (Destin and Pensacola Beach), ate at fun restaurants (Old Bay Steamer, Hemingway's Island Grill, Mellow Mushroom, Sailors' Grill), shopped. It was great not to live by a set schedule. I even tried new things. Jamie loves boiled peanuts. I do not. We bought them from a roadside vendor - I won't eat them again. Her sister brought us crawfish etouffee from Louisiana - that was tasty and I would definitely eat that again.<br />
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I discovered that it was refreshing to spend time away from the family - even though I missed them and hope they missed me too. A week-long getaway with good friends and some new ones was just what I needed. If there's a next time, I hope it's a little longer than a week. Our daily routine consisted of sleeping in a little, eating a bite for breakfast, slathering on sunscreen, packing up beach bags and the small cooler with water, ice and snacks. We'd gather beach chairs and an umbrella, nets to scoop shells. It didn't take long to set up in just the perfect spot on the beach. I brought back tons of shells - each unique - for my family and friends back home. The one I dove in for after I spotted through the water is mine though.<br />
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I've lived beachside, on the west coast. It's beautiful there, in a different way. Like my mom, the ocean beckons to me. I miss living near a large body of water. It's so powerful yet peaceful. She was a true Southern California beach babe back in the day. Jamie is a beach girl too and I so thankful she encouraged me to go. It was just what I needed.<br />
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<br />Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-85827085390029046112011-12-17T19:26:00.001-06:002011-12-17T20:02:50.597-06:00Sip and Dip Night with the Girls!Lanie, Kimberly and I had our first annual "Sip & Dip" Friday night. What is a Sip & Dip you might ask? Beverage of your choice to sip on and lots of yummies to dip in chocolate and sprinkles! We dipped pretzel rods, marshmallows and spoons into white chocolate, chocolate. Sprinkles, crushed Skor candy bars, crushed peppermints. I can't wait to make goodie plates for my friends and neighbors. xo - Em<br />
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</div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-2498188403643748432011-11-29T08:04:00.001-06:002011-11-29T22:44:51.391-06:00Chocolatey goodness!'Tis the season for baking! I love the holidays and all of the baking that comes with this time of year. I'm starting to get excited again for the holidays. The past few years have been difficult for my family, we've had our hearts broken with the unexpected passings of several loved ones. I know we aren't alone - but I've just been in a funk. Finding joy in the everyday things, let alone the bigger ones, has seemed pointless to me until recently. I haven't started decorating yet but will soon. Nearly all of the autumn pretties are put away for another year. I expect it will be looking a lot like Christmas in my house next weekend.<br />
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Following all of my bloggy friends is so much fun. I can't believe how many creative people there are who generously share with us via their blogs. I came across a yummylicious-recipe via <a href="http://www.sweetbakingsupply.com/blog/">http://www.sweetbakingsupply.com/blog/</a> and just had to give the recipe a whirl!<br />
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Here's how I spent my manic-Monday evening!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Zoey waited impatiently just outside the kitchen - hoping I'd let her in for a bite. Oh no!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These are filled cupcakes with chocolate ganache frosting (since ganache isn't very sweet I also frosted some with chocolate buttercream). Tim must have liked them because he ate three of them before I was done frosting them! Don't they look delish? I hope my co-workers like them - they are my unofficial test market. Check out Sweet Baking Supply - awesome blog. Have a fabulous day. I can't wait to find a new recipe to try for the holidays. xo - Em</div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-34603380238636772402011-11-20T20:35:00.001-06:002011-11-20T20:35:50.888-06:00Em'sView's photostream<div style="padding: 0; overflow: hidden; margin: 0; width: 500px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361849601/in/photostream/" title="Lights at Sister's Garden" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6056/6361849601_baac47f47b_s.jpg" alt="Lights at Sister's Garden" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361848995/in/photostream/" title="Outside looking in at Sister's Garden" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6039/6361848995_82f79b4942_s.jpg" alt="Outside looking in at Sister's Garden" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361848321/in/photostream/" title="View from outside Sister's Garden" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6048/6361848321_123e534439_s.jpg" alt="View from outside Sister's Garden" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361847743/in/photostream/" title="Sister's Garden" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6057/6361847743_910d3913c6_s.jpg" alt="Sister's Garden" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361847047/in/photostream/" title="Santa treats" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6104/6361847047_8ede0bea6a_s.jpg" alt="Santa treats" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361846273/in/photostream/" title="Vintage glam" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6120/6361846273_91757bace4_s.jpg" alt="Vintage glam" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361845515/in/photostream/" title="Lise going downstairs at Sister's Garden" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6220/6361845515_516e9138d5_s.jpg" alt="Lise going downstairs at Sister's Garden" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361844925/in/photostream/" title="Walk in Faith" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6060/6361844925_32bcf5e712_s.jpg" alt="Walk in Faith" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361844359/in/photostream/" title="Vintage "keyboard" LOL" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6224/6361844359_57799f6001_s.jpg" alt="Vintage "keyboard" LOL" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361843793/in/photostream/" title="Sparkly tree" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6060/6361843793_ce1c41c62e_s.jpg" alt="Sparkly tree" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361843323/in/photostream/" title="Silver Christmas balls" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6095/6361843323_f2ab30734d_s.jpg" alt="Silver Christmas balls" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361842771/in/photostream/" title="Pretty" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6038/6361842771_7c2a0ca5bd_s.jpg" alt="Pretty" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361842181/in/photostream/" title=""Ice"" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6102/6361842181_7557431c6f_s.jpg" alt=""Ice"" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361841673/in/photostream/" title="Keyboard?" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6232/6361841673_8a48d3660a_s.jpg" alt="Keyboard?" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361841159/in/photostream/" title="Books and books - oh so many books" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6222/6361841159_d615fe6f37_s.jpg" alt="Books and books - oh so many books" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361840703/in/photostream/" title="Decorate a tree with vintage baubles" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6232/6361840703_f5833b7aa0_s.jpg" alt="Decorate a tree with vintage baubles" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361840247/in/photostream/" title="Yes, please" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6095/6361840247_a8a0019392_s.jpg" alt="Yes, please" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361839777/in/photostream/" title="Mercury glass, candles=pretty reflection" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6031/6361839777_166356c932_s.jpg" alt="Mercury glass, candles=pretty reflection" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361839213/in/photostream/" title="for the LOVE of Vintage!" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6227/6361839213_6ea0924a5e_s.jpg" alt="for the LOVE of Vintage!" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361838625/in/photostream/" title="How cool are these?" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6095/6361838625_5250ed744d_s.jpg" alt="How cool are these?" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361838103/in/photostream/" title="Candles light the night at Sister's Garden" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6044/6361838103_9b4a1c4cc9_s.jpg" alt="Candles light the night at Sister's Garden" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361837723/in/photostream/" title="Pretty candles" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6116/6361837723_d405d11cc5_s.jpg" alt="Pretty candles" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361837239/in/photostream/" title="All is bright" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6042/6361837239_802ec6c67a_s.jpg" alt="All is bright" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6361836561/in/photostream/" title="Gingerbread men" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6040/6361836561_9b3c3e533c_s.jpg" alt="Gingerbread men" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/></div><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px"><p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/">Em'sView's photostream</a> on Flickr.</p></div><p>Pics from the Farm-Style Holiday Open House at Sisters' Garden and Bloom this past Friday night.</p>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-74351248265648844872011-11-05T03:32:00.000-05:002011-11-05T03:32:52.814-05:00Skunked!Puppy dogs - so cute, lovable, fun, friendly, smelly. Smelly? Miss Ellie was skunked while out in the yard a couple of nights ago. The smell was overwhelming, to say the least. After a bath - a long bath with Dawn soap she smells slightly better. As I sit on my loveseat the unmistakable pungent scent of skunk lingers. I think it's coming from her head - I hesitated to wash her head too much - I didn't want to get water in her ears or eyes. But I think I'll be bathing her again.<br />
<br />
On a nicer note, I am inspired by something I saw on Pinterest tonight. As usual. It's so easy to get sucked in to Pinterest. Time seems to stop. Only it doesn't. Flies by.<br />
<br />
After bath #2, Ellie smells better. Still a little skunky.<br />
xo - Em<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAy6c0sAh3CC03Gvhyg8ZfXa5F3YNIlMjmZh5VnmcD7Pf_lGY9CgNQVgbft5HGeDOKjiHW4kxzqQCF4lDGQ8oa3Q7XOooTXvBEv84kAcDSkxEjTb7f6lqg1B-Uq3rtU1TEdcn6_N0JXA/s1600/IMG_1769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAy6c0sAh3CC03Gvhyg8ZfXa5F3YNIlMjmZh5VnmcD7Pf_lGY9CgNQVgbft5HGeDOKjiHW4kxzqQCF4lDGQ8oa3Q7XOooTXvBEv84kAcDSkxEjTb7f6lqg1B-Uq3rtU1TEdcn6_N0JXA/s320/IMG_1769.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie, pre-skunk. :)<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVQ2SMqLqaKvMCPukHbvaxnegpq-lEsmlAnmWCCGV_vsrt3nl4l1wdW3y-OWzoWQOXdUOnAencV0iJejzHtvBvw3EQ0HECEXdi0WKb4BHssRjTFnSOG4DJaokNgKuTF4Vk3iwiSsDhw/s1600/IMG_6348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVQ2SMqLqaKvMCPukHbvaxnegpq-lEsmlAnmWCCGV_vsrt3nl4l1wdW3y-OWzoWQOXdUOnAencV0iJejzHtvBvw3EQ0HECEXdi0WKb4BHssRjTFnSOG4DJaokNgKuTF4Vk3iwiSsDhw/s320/IMG_6348.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey on a walk last weekend. She didn't get skunked. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-61657694226472000262011-10-02T21:56:00.001-05:002011-10-02T21:56:37.012-05:00EmSather's photostream<div style="padding: 0; overflow: hidden; margin: 0; width: 500px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205494537/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6178/6205494537_00eaee5fe8_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205493875/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6174/6205493875_3e8996cf68_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6206008178/in/photostream/" title="Joetown" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6180/6206008178_3f910767fe_s.jpg" alt="Joetown" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205492363/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6141/6205492363_6a8de76b68_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6206006708/in/photostream/" title="Roadside pumpkin stand" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6178/6206006708_b0040b6b45_s.jpg" alt="Roadside pumpkin stand" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6206006002/in/photostream/" title="just a couple left" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6018/6206006002_d9096b47df_s.jpg" alt="just a couple left" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205490341/in/photostream/" title=""should've bought me, I wouldn't have been eaten"" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6175/6205490341_444e01eaaf_s.jpg" alt=""should've bought me, I wouldn't have been eaten"" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6206004638/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6144/6206004638_f226d46d6f_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6206004032/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6157/6206004032_ee8b93743d_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205488087/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6178/6205488087_c220983087_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6206002336/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6167/6206002336_c229ea679a_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205486233/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6171/6205486233_bbc973b6e0_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6206000804/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6132/6206000804_4af886036e_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205999654/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6024/6205999654_ec6fd86227_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6205998858/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6163/6205998858_7874aff82a_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6187314432/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6166/6187314432_04cd3543e1_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6186786471/in/photostream/" title="" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6163/6186786471_d0999be816_s.jpg" alt="" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6047793111/in/photostream/" title="love" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6088/6047793111_6daca71c2e_s.jpg" alt="love" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6047786613/in/photostream/" title="August moon" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6201/6047786613_36c61b2cbe_s.jpg" alt="August moon" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6047780599/in/photostream/" title="August moon II" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6047780599_a545b8b4bf_s.jpg" alt="August moon II" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6047773265/in/photostream/" title="donkey tears" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6208/6047773265_dc28255eee_s.jpg" alt="donkey tears" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6007593152/in/photostream/" title="Jake playing with his band at the Blue Moose Tap, Iowa City" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6021/6007593152_89d56768b1_s.jpg" alt="Jake playing with his band at the Blue Moose Tap, Iowa City" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/6007591748/in/photostream/" title="Troy playing with his band at the Blue Moose Tap, Iowa City" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6006/6007591748_2bff1164f9_s.jpg" alt="Troy playing with his band at the Blue Moose Tap, Iowa City" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/5879062073/in/photostream/" title="Summertime Fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5313/5879062073_53b98f67f0_s.jpg" alt="Summertime Fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/></div><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px"><p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photosbyemma/">EmSather's photostream</a> on Flickr.</p></div><p>New photos from an Autumn day.</p>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-5060097808958331582011-09-04T21:54:00.000-05:002011-09-04T21:54:19.847-05:00Rocky Road Chocolate Cake - Make in Your Crock-PotI wish I had a picture to share with you - this cake is chocolate-heaven! My cousin Amy and I made it together in 2008 and I've made it a few times since. This recipe is very rich so pair it with a basic meal. It's from the October 2008 issue of "Southern Living" magazine. I must tell you that I love, LOVE this magazine - it's always chock full of lovely pictures, travel ideas and tasty recipes. Mmmmm - good!<br />
<br />
Rocky Road Chocolate Cake<br />
Makes 8-10 servings<br />
Prep: 15 min.<br />
Cook: 3 hr., 40 min. (you may want to add 10-15 min, to the cooking time)<br />
Stand: 15 min.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
1 (18.25-oz.) package German chocolate cake mix<br />
1 (3.9-oz) package chocolate instant pudding mix<br />
3 large eggs, lightly beaten<br />
1 cup sour cream<br />
1/3 cup butter, melted<br />
1 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
3 1/4 cups milk, divided<br />
1(3.4-oz.) package chocolate cook-and-serve pudding mix<br />
1/2 cup chopped pecans<br />
1 1/2 cup miniature marshmallows<br />
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol><li>Beat cake mix, next 5 ingredients, and 1 1/4 cups milk at medium speed for 2 min. with an electric mixer, scrape sides as needed. Pour batter into a lightly greased 4-qt slow cooker.</li>
<li>Cook remaining 2 cups milk in a heavy non-aluminum saucepan over medium heat, stirring often, 3 to 5 minutes or just until bubbles appear (don't boil); remove from heat.</li>
<li>Sprinkle cook-and-serve pudding mix over batter. Slowly pour hot milk over pudding. Cook and cover on LOW 3 1/2 hours.</li>
<li>Meanwhile, heat pecans in a small non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often, 3 to 5 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.</li>
<li>Turn off slow cooker. Sprinkle cake with pecans, marshmallows, and chocolate chips. Let stand 15 minutes or until marshmallows are slightly melted. Spoon into dessert bowls (serve with vanilla ice cream - optional).</li>
</ol>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-28754832098496911642011-06-28T21:04:00.000-05:002011-06-28T21:04:00.385-05:00Wedding Snaps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoH0Z3NFXFMFmI-tljnYboEkuCMGlp3OKTjFfRephrZW94HHr2Ee2ESwVMTZubQmwLmUb13gTB0svgqCMIDOGgt4o5msaYM0gs-4-0mdhyphenhyphen1wpOLLQCp688UiyN0ZqQhkxUO8YGxWe2w/s1600/IMG_5629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoH0Z3NFXFMFmI-tljnYboEkuCMGlp3OKTjFfRephrZW94HHr2Ee2ESwVMTZubQmwLmUb13gTB0svgqCMIDOGgt4o5msaYM0gs-4-0mdhyphenhyphen1wpOLLQCp688UiyN0ZqQhkxUO8YGxWe2w/s320/IMG_5629.JPG" width="236" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4HgoCPEgc3SncgPExYsaPCQF3-ypiZq4tLSUzFUe-WQTom29MHF4d3k6axkR5yGajcgvW3_72aVrPIyHuGtMzjd7zsh5OwpUAjxO6VXZLH0aDZKm7Gi6SZMAC5XNkbZOU6hpP12aSzA/s1600/IMG_5632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4HgoCPEgc3SncgPExYsaPCQF3-ypiZq4tLSUzFUe-WQTom29MHF4d3k6axkR5yGajcgvW3_72aVrPIyHuGtMzjd7zsh5OwpUAjxO6VXZLH0aDZKm7Gi6SZMAC5XNkbZOU6hpP12aSzA/s320/IMG_5632.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-41585149438761550272011-05-08T17:05:00.000-05:002011-05-08T17:05:59.107-05:00S'mores cookie barsJust made these s'mores cookie bars, courtesy of http://www.lovintheoven.com/2008/12/day-11-smores-cookie-bars.html. Yummy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOP93G6m6I0JjR7mwiwnfH1NYzhKkOEjSIcwuO_FI6bUWO_7nEiXXLympLHnAIGRucg1S8guN4TPMIkNWiapQ-ah6ZK2gl44w3STK44kW7LJESOEqQYLk11-glfAYmV_6Pto-XAwUpQ/s1600/IMG_4668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOP93G6m6I0JjR7mwiwnfH1NYzhKkOEjSIcwuO_FI6bUWO_7nEiXXLympLHnAIGRucg1S8guN4TPMIkNWiapQ-ah6ZK2gl44w3STK44kW7LJESOEqQYLk11-glfAYmV_6Pto-XAwUpQ/s320/IMG_4668.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-77894369289660631792011-04-17T19:09:00.000-05:002011-04-17T19:09:26.006-05:00Last PromBittersweet is the word that best describes how I am feeling about my son's senior year. Saturday night was his last Prom. He was handsome, of course, and his sweet girlfriend, Breanna, was princess-pretty - I teared up when I saw her. We and three other couples hosted a dinner for them, Jake and Shelby at Breanna's house. Her dad grilled steaks, chicken and burgers. We served the kids downstairs at a table lit by candles, sparkly little white lights were strung around the room providing just the right amount of light. So as the kids dined by candlelight, sipped sparkling white grape juice and sparkling lemonade, we (the adults and Shelby's sister) enjoyed our meal in the dining room. I hope they had as much fun as we did. <br />
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I just love seeing all the teens all gussied up at Prom - shiny dresses and tuxedos. My sweet son even posed for pic with me.<br />
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So much to do before graduation: make his grad party invites, send out announcements, plan the party, order the food... I think my head is spinning!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNArV-AVWhNsEZJmO42OBtMTT_h2qXCUsx5TRu7vvhFfPAmaA47p8e_JXxcVnw12Bzi9j3XO7ZCZUsrqOIi37GUqBeR5PjcX7d2z7btxUFLYao1PxTlxL-r8zM0nLUOIF6DU4znazA3Q/s1600/IMG_4516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNArV-AVWhNsEZJmO42OBtMTT_h2qXCUsx5TRu7vvhFfPAmaA47p8e_JXxcVnw12Bzi9j3XO7ZCZUsrqOIi37GUqBeR5PjcX7d2z7btxUFLYao1PxTlxL-r8zM0nLUOIF6DU4znazA3Q/s320/IMG_4516.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-47242038758415686602011-01-30T16:36:00.000-06:002011-01-30T16:36:15.849-06:00Mehhh...Working on Soul Restoration stuff.<br />
Roast in the crock pot.<br />
My youngest Chicklet earned a I rating at State Jazz Band Contest yesterday with his high school band. Woot!!!<br />
Not ready for work tomorrow.<br />
Fighting a nasty cough/headache/earache - woe is me. (LOL)<br />
Preparing for looming snowstorms.<br />
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Here's some pics of the Mississippi via Muscatine, Iowa on an unseasonably warm January day.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbIZON943uknfLoAtin8YTwXAfl47mP0-A8d8EaEKnVWh7T26hEyGa3_vqf0HE3nHtYgstKSQ_Uob5Tv45RyGgYgSsLXXU5MZrVI9YXf0EZslE4YP31R6fpf4XLDU38vsp-wqJVweUKA/s1600/IMG_4150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbIZON943uknfLoAtin8YTwXAfl47mP0-A8d8EaEKnVWh7T26hEyGa3_vqf0HE3nHtYgstKSQ_Uob5Tv45RyGgYgSsLXXU5MZrVI9YXf0EZslE4YP31R6fpf4XLDU38vsp-wqJVweUKA/s320/IMG_4150.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-51943056165660186942011-01-16T22:50:00.000-06:002011-01-16T22:50:56.179-06:00Brave Girls Club - Soul RestorationOne of my chicklets (daughter Lise) and I are taking the online Soul Restoration workshop from Brave Girls Club. It's a six week class to heal, learn and grow through creativity and journaling. I'm so excited to take part of this life-changing class. We are in week one and I have to admit, it's a little scary to face my personal fears and put light in those dark places of my soul. But even though it's scary and challenging I'm looking forward to quieting some of those monsters and seeking love, healing and truth.<div><br />
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</div></div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-2490728931937261942010-12-30T20:36:00.001-06:002010-12-31T07:27:52.842-06:00Merry ChristmasAhhh... the hustle and bustle of the busy Christmas season is over and here I am reflecting on another year that has come and gone. We had a quiet holiday with the kids. Analise was home for a couple of days and after Christmas dinner we played a few rousing games of Yahtzee and Scrabble - we are bit competitive when it comes to family games! Tim and Taylor tied on Scrabble, which might be a first at our house. Tim usually wins by a landslide!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGde08iEVCOspr7_80e1-vCqz56_TiqQhGCccZvsiiJOABp6X4Yk-M1V5NrvgZ1SXfx8YeHdJL4mtb_Wzw7gxkEsG93qNnEiFTspDYuyO-cLd51_pXwQadoSz5WzuI004E4gVNL0HteA/s1600/IMG_3937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGde08iEVCOspr7_80e1-vCqz56_TiqQhGCccZvsiiJOABp6X4Yk-M1V5NrvgZ1SXfx8YeHdJL4mtb_Wzw7gxkEsG93qNnEiFTspDYuyO-cLd51_pXwQadoSz5WzuI004E4gVNL0HteA/s200/IMG_3937.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lise was playing Yahtzee, playing with her Nook and eating popcorn with M&Ms!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7Fa57wKRmnpsJZTgECXCc8WLEjiGfBbRpCcDBeVTQcA2aLRdFBlx8FxtZlLypt2F7xr4y-B8B7DZGRA-Z-Lz0xSCGd1VBa7pgYqfSP2RfPmXPodIlmkJ19TG-xUBlJSfOGxwkx98Zg/s1600/IMG_3961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7Fa57wKRmnpsJZTgECXCc8WLEjiGfBbRpCcDBeVTQcA2aLRdFBlx8FxtZlLypt2F7xr4y-B8B7DZGRA-Z-Lz0xSCGd1VBa7pgYqfSP2RfPmXPodIlmkJ19TG-xUBlJSfOGxwkx98Zg/s200/IMG_3961.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor contemplating strategy?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpcvadnA5kur9gyX0YWJUlVWoHwZr_yC9E68H0gnbYzYKsffgOaWHhkkRyUG5MSG_0FWJh6wQdf6U2YVzCh6jqpm-phfNLWcjk58nDPtQtm4NPb4nO_Wp4EVggSOiX2OvVZycbPOHZw/s1600/IMG_3962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpcvadnA5kur9gyX0YWJUlVWoHwZr_yC9E68H0gnbYzYKsffgOaWHhkkRyUG5MSG_0FWJh6wQdf6U2YVzCh6jqpm-phfNLWcjk58nDPtQtm4NPb4nO_Wp4EVggSOiX2OvVZycbPOHZw/s200/IMG_3962.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lot of thought went into game plays. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>As for a new year - I'm excited for new challenges and a lot of changes. Taylor is in his senior year of high school - so next year at this time he'll be a freshman in college. That'll totally change the dynamic in the house - we won't have any kids at home. Goodness, I get a little teary thinking about it.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Beginning January 3, I'll be taking on new responsibilities at work. I've been asked and agreed to be an interim manager at one of our CU branches. It means my commute will be triple for a few months until they hire a permanent manager. But the change will be good and I like a challenge. :)</div><div><br />
</div><div>Lise and I will also be participating in The Brave Girls Club online Soul Restoration class. We are both super-excited to do this. I'll keep you updated during it. Soul restoration - here we come! </div><div><br />
</div><div>New 360 photo blog is being created too! It'll be a year of changes, growing, goodbyes, hellos and creating. xo - Em</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQ96aie1FsM03fl7ldjKcak8mLx88ll1_xM61aCWimt1DRJYRnhKKOKzO6z8Suf2Nt2hIX77jSm5XOcWKGN3LPLpi-ScNUplvEJeAIC1zIi8uJdkt-X2WezC5_xgBM_K9uTKuzT6ePQ/s1600/IMG_3923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQ96aie1FsM03fl7ldjKcak8mLx88ll1_xM61aCWimt1DRJYRnhKKOKzO6z8Suf2Nt2hIX77jSm5XOcWKGN3LPLpi-ScNUplvEJeAIC1zIi8uJdkt-X2WezC5_xgBM_K9uTKuzT6ePQ/s320/IMG_3923.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boy, on edge of being a man. His eyes light up like a child's. Tolkien book.</td></tr>
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</div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-75075255733410777232010-12-11T20:48:00.000-06:002010-12-11T20:48:45.875-06:00WelcomeToday was a special day at our house - we adopted a 2-year-old golden retriever, Zoe, from a nice family who is moving. She is loved by them and by us too. The young girls and their parents brought her over this morning, before the winter storm hit.<br />
The girls made an instruction sheet which I'll share because it's so sweet:<br />
<br />
<i>To Emma and family</i><br />
<i>ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ZOE REESE</i><br />
<i>* I got Zoe for my 5th Birthday. Please treat her like family. Her birthday is June 9th, mine is August 9th and Olivia's is July 9th. Her middle name is Reese, just like mine.</i><br />
<i>* When you open the freezer Zoe will come running and sit and wait for you to give her her favorite treat. ICE CUBES.</i><br />
<i>* Sometimes when she is in deep sleep she snores!</i><br />
<i>* Zoe has sensitive ears. She is afraid of loud trucks, horses clomping, and vacuums. (Even though it's funny to watch her run from the vacuums)</i><br />
<i>* Zoe LOVES family walks.</i><br />
<i>* When Zoe gets fed she waits for Gracie the cat to eat one of her morsels before she gobbles it down.</i><br />
<i>* Zoe burps and farts a lot. Please try to ignore the smell.</i><br />
<i>* Zoe loves her bone. When she is naughty we tell her to get her bone. It is her therapy.</i><br />
<i>* Zoe has a small bladder just like me. Please don't let her drink water after 7 pm.</i><br />
<i>* Zoe knows how to shake, sit, jump, and dance on your shoulders with you.</i><br />
<i>* Zoe's nicknames are Zo, Zo Zo, Zee Zo, or Z. She'll respond to all of them.</i><br />
<i>* We will miss her a lot. Please send pictures.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>You Will Love Her. She Is The Best Dog In The World!</i><br />
<br />
I read this aloud when the girls were here, they are 7 and 10, and I got teary-eyed knowing how much they love her and how hard this is for them. We are so happy and thankful they are sharing her with us.<br />
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Happy December night. xo - EmEmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-13102958889089052082010-12-09T20:06:00.001-06:002010-12-09T21:26:17.688-06:00Christmas spiderI've been on vacation from my day job this week but stopped in today for a few minutes to find a fun surprise in my mailbox. Handcrafted by Barb - who is Ms Craftylicious!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLhGzyHWXFX4TN1_gkjpIKdKiTWleOwedi9Yt9s3ZonTuB17rwfTLs1-XFznSSe1VEQItXg9XWuGfB0HzeaRofvuvEeJ2J_VJlZ6y7xB68DXrxSwXsvt387eptTzig11kjk6Qz37b-g/s1600/IMG_3699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLhGzyHWXFX4TN1_gkjpIKdKiTWleOwedi9Yt9s3ZonTuB17rwfTLs1-XFznSSe1VEQItXg9XWuGfB0HzeaRofvuvEeJ2J_VJlZ6y7xB68DXrxSwXsvt387eptTzig11kjk6Qz37b-g/s200/IMG_3699.jpg" width="146" /></a></div><br />
How fun! How sweet of Barbara to think of me! What's in the sparkly bag?<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A lovely little spider and a sweet story about spiders wanting to be present for a visit from the Christ child. Miss Spider now hangs on my Christmas tree. Thank you Barb - you brightened my day. xo - Em</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-19262315505260914772010-11-29T23:02:00.000-06:002010-11-29T23:02:24.011-06:00New old treasures!I snagged some super-cute vintage ornaments from my favorite shop, Sister's Garden, which is oh-so-close (maybe too close and I live in the country) to my house! I haven't decided how I'm going to use them all yet, but I'm sure I'll come up with something. Just adore the vintage silver garland - it is sooooo long - 10 yards - LOVE IT!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">xo - Em</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428506599259540741.post-43021745788156760922010-11-25T20:37:00.000-06:002010-11-25T20:37:19.127-06:00So much to be thankful forHappy Thanksgiving - I'm sure you are all incredibly busy preparing, eating and enjoying your time with loved ones. We are going to the home of Tim's sister to enjoy the day with her family and since she's hosting - she has the bulk of the work and cooking to do. We got off pretty easy this year by bringing rolls (from an awesome Amish bakery near our home!), pop and a dessert. As I'm writing this I can smell the yummy spices and pumpkin in the pumpkin cheesecake bars that are baking in the oven. Mmmm...<br />
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This past Sunday our dear friends Betsy, Marvin and their kids had us over for dinner. I am so thankful to have them as friends. Our sons are the same age - high school seniors, we met and became fast friends when the boys were in Kindergarten. It seems like just yesterday - how fast time goes. Betsy works at a fabulous second-hand shop, The Crowded Closet (a Mennonite thrift store in which the proceeds benefit needy people here and in other countries). It's a fabulous shop if you ever get a chance to stop by! Betsy has a skill in decorating their home with nifty items she purchases at The Crowded Closet. I wish I was half as talented as she is!<br />
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Dinner was delicious, of course. Roasted chicken - raised by them, beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, carrots, rolls, pie - all so tasty! Good friends, good food, good conversation - can't ask for much more than that.<br />
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I'm thankful for so many things this year: my loving healthy family, dear friends, a roof over our heads, food on the table and clothes in our back. We are truly blessed. What are you thankful for this year?<br />
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Oh, the pumpkin cheesecake bars are done, here's the recipe if you'd like:<br />
1 cup flour<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
5 tablespoons softened margarine<br />
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (I just chop them - not finely)<br />
8 ounces of cream cheese<br />
3/4 cup sugar<br />
1/2 cup solid pack pumpkin<br />
2 eggs lightly beaten<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon<br />
1 teaspoon allspice (I use Watkins pumpkin pie spice instead)<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
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Combine flour and brown sugar, cut in margarine to make a crumb mix. Stir in nuts. Set aside 3/4 cup of the mix for topping. Press remaining mix into bottom of 8x8 baking pan and bake in preheated 350 oven for 15 minutes. Cool slightly.<br />
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Combine remaining ingredients in large mixer bowl. Blend until smooth then pour over baked crust. Sprinkle with reserved topping. Bake an additional 30-35 minutes. Cool before cutting.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Much love - xo - EmEmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17771300230802365756noreply@blogger.com0