tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60465459095963562532024-02-19T05:20:23.496-05:00Living to Seas the MomentKim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-30015503702894970122013-01-03T22:49:00.000-05:002013-01-03T22:49:12.521-05:00A Momma's Heart <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">New Year's Day morning I was enjoying a quiet moment in the kitchen while making a cup of tea when I heard footsteps on the stairs. Any of you who have a two story home and children know, footsteps on the stairs can warn you as to what is ahead...A sleepy, not ready to start my day child, or a "I'm in a hurry because I forgot something or am late" child, or a "you aren't going to believe THIS" child, or, as these footsteps warned me, "I have some horrible news to tell you" child. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>A friend lost her small child in an tragic accident the previous day. My heart was immediately broken and I cried out "NO!" as the truth sank in...the little one was gone too soon. Then, my heart found comfort when I told myself, instant death means instant heaven. Still, all week I have been struggling with the fact that this sweet family will not have that precious little one to hold, their lives are forever changed. In days past, this friend and I would have most likely lost touch when she moved away from the town where we both once lived to pursue more education and then got married, and began her family. Technology has allowed us, instead, to keep in touch and for me to "watch" as she announced her pregnancy, birth, and then each birthday of her little one. So, even though I never actually met this sweet child I feel as though I was blessed to see so much that normally I would have missed. This child LIVED! I amazed as I look through pictures and watch a video that have been added by the family at how many adventures such a wee one could enjoy. Obviously, the momma and daddy have embraced parenting and are training up their children in a way to be admired. As these types of events usually do, it has caused me to examine my own parenting. Although my children are adults, my momma's heart was reminded to be <em>present</em> as much as I possibly can. Life IS short and we know not what tomorrow holds. </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>In preparing for my preschool class Sunday school lesson (I teach 4 and 5 year olds) I was researching and stumbled upon a blog. I wish now I could remember the name of the blog as I do always want to give credit where credit is do but since the author's name is attached I think it is right to share this. It made me stop and think of each child I am blessed to have in my life and the responsibility I have to each them. I hope it speaks to you as it did to me.</strong> <strong>It is my prayer that these my friend and her husband know deep in their hearts that they did outstanding with their "thirty seconds".</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: coming soon; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: coming soon; font-size: x-small;">What
can we do with thirty seconds? What can we <span style="font-style: italic;">not
</span>do with thirty seconds!... [Suppose] y</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: coming soon; font-size: x-small;">our
little child looks out the window and sees a collie. 'What's that?' he asks you.
You have five options, which will each take about thirty seconds to make
stick:<br />
</span><br />
<div align="left">
1. We can tell him, "Look, baby, Mommy has to get dinner."<br />
2.
We can tell him, "That's a bow-wow."<br />
3. We can tell him, "That's a
dog."<br />
4. We can tell him, "That's a dog called a collie."</div>
The fifth option
is to tell him that it is a dog called a collie and then go on to tell him
thirty seconds worth of information about that animal...<br />
<br />
How sad it is
that we put information into a computer with great skill and great precision and
put information into our children's brains in a hit-or-miss, slip-shod, and
often untruthful way."<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: coming soon; font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div align="right">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">-</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Glenn Doman</span></div>
Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-79417026393694256902013-01-01T21:16:00.000-05:002013-01-01T21:16:48.866-05:00New Years Eve fiesta with a Southern twistOur family spent New Years Eve in our usual way...safely at home. I was going to say "quietly and safely at home" but that wouldn't be accurate as we actually brought 2013 in with a BANG! More about that in a minute. <br />
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I decided to make enchiladas for dinner and added a couple of dishes that have a decidedly Southern twist. After posting some pictures to Facebook and Instagram I had several requests for my recipes so just thought I would post them here for all to enjoy. <br />
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<em><strong>Enchiladas</strong></em><br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
This is my twist on a recipe I found in <em>The Pioneer Woman Cooks</em> cookbook for Simple, Perfect Enchiladas. (pages 176-178)<br />
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<br />
<em>The Sauce</em><br />
2 tablespoons Canola oil, in a pinch I have used Olive and Vegetable oil but Canola is best.<br />
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour<br />
2 large cans (28 oz each can) of enchilada sauce<br />
3 cans chicken stock or chicken broth<br />
salt and pepper <br />
1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped <br />
<br />
Make a rue over medium heat using the flour and oil. Whisk together and bring to a full bubble for 5 minutes, whisking constantly. Add in the enchilada sauce, chicken stock, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. I allow this to simmer while I prepare the filling. Be sure to stir often. <br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Beef Filling</em><br />
2 pounds ground beef, cooked and well seasoned with salt & black pepper. This is a great time to use up those bags of frozen left over ground beef from tacos or other recipes. I always tend to make more than I need and freeze what is left over so I may or may not use more than 2 pounds. I really just eye it. Drain off all fat. Add 1 chopped up medium sized onion, 2 large cans of green chilies ( I think they were 10 oz cans), a lot of fresh garlic...about 4 tablespoons, and a good dash of cumin and Cayenne pepper. Cook all together til the onion is transparent. <br />
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<em>Tortillas</em><br />
I use corn, not flour. I buy the big bags at Sam's Club and just make the enchiladas until I run out of sauce. Or sometimes I run out of filling first. Other times, I just make enough for the 4 of us and freeze the left over sauce and filling for a different time. Just do what works best for you! <br />
In order to roll the enchiladas you have to heat the tortillas first. I do this by layering 10 in a paper towel and microwaving for about 30 seconds. You can also fry them in oil until soft and flexible but this is time consuming and I don't think the flavor changes either way so I use the fast method. <br />
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<em>Cheese</em> <br />
I use A LOT...a whole lot! I bought a big bag (8 cups) of shredded Co Jack and another of Sharp Cheddar (4 cups). I mixed them up in a big bowl then divided that into a smaller bowl so that just in case I didn't use all the cheese my cheese and sauce wouldn't mingle. This is a messy dish!<br />
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<em>Assemble and Bake</em><br />
Use a 9X13 baking dish (or bigger if you have one). Spread a little sauce in the bottom. Now, is the messy part! Grab a warm shell, put some meat filling in using a large spoon (or do like I do, use your hands), cover with cheese, and roll. Place in baking dish with the folded side down. Sometimes I even spread a little sour cream over the meat before I cover with cheese. Continue until you have made all the enchiladas you and your family can eat. For cheese enchiladas skip the meat mixture and use double the cheese as the filling. I bake the all cheese variety in a different dish. I used 3 baking dishes last night. Once you have filled a baking dish, pour some sauce over the tops (use a little or a lot, it's up to you) and sprinkle with more shredded cheese. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes. <br />
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<em>Garnish</em><br />
With more cilantro, black olives, and green onion if that is what you like. I leave mine naked...my family prefers them that way. <br />
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<em>Serve</em><br />
Right away with sour cream, salsa, and any side dishes you enjoy. <br />
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whew! Typing all that out took almost as long as making them! I hope you enjoy!<br />
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Now, for the Southern twist! Superman has very few "rules" but one of them is that our family must have black eyed peas(BEP) on New Year's Day (NYD). My family never ate them so after we married I would choke down one to make him happy each NYD. My daughters did the same once they were old enough to eat them. Or they fed them to our doggies. Anyway, after we moved to NC I ate some at a church function ( I AM trying to embrace the Southern culture/way of eating) and they were AmAzIng! So, I have made them each year since using dried peas and a ham hock and found I like them! I guess the canned black eyed peas heated just didn't do this bean justice! This year, I found 2 ideas on <a href="http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/">The Pioneer Woman's blog</a> and decided to add them to our Fiesta! I know what you are thinking, but you made those on New Year's EVE not DAY. Yes, but I made so much that I wouldn't have to cook on NYD and we would still be able to eat our BEP AND Superman would be Happy! Win, Win! <br />
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<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/12/zannies-black-eyed-pea-dip/"><strong><em>Hot Black Eyed Pea Dip</em></strong></a> I made exactly as the recipe called for so I won't post the entire recipe, just a pic of mine. You can visit The Pioneer Woman and make it next time you are looking for a great dip! <br />
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<strong><em>Black Eyed Pea Salsa </em></strong><br />
For this, I found several on Pinterest and on The Pioneer Woman so I made mine using those as examples.<br />
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<em>Dressing</em><br />
1/2 cup canola Oil <br />
1/3 cup white wine vinegar<br />
2 tablespoons white granulated sugar<br />
1 teaspoon celery seed<br />
1/2 teaspoons ground mustard <br />
1/2 teaspoon sea salt<br />
fresh ground pepper<br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Salsa</em><br />
6 stalks celery, chopped in small bits<br />
1 bunch of green onions, chopped in small bits<br />
1 whole red bell pepper, the whole thing chopped in small bits<br />
2 whole jalapenos, seeded and chopped in small bits<br />
1 heaping cup of chopped cilantro<br />
2 cans black eyed peas, drained<br />
<br />
Mix the dressing. I used my Measure, Mix, and Pour from the Pampered Chef. It worked great! Mix the veggies in a bowl. Pour the dressing over and stir gently. Place in fridge for about an hour or til chilled. Serve with chips. YUMMMY and colorful! <br />
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We discovered these chips when the grocery was out of our favorite Hint Of Lime and have to say, we think these are delish! Full of flavor!<br />
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Superman ran an errand while I was cooking and brought home some fun with a BANG! Hopefully, we didn't wake the neighbors with the fun but weren't they pretty?! Superman says, "sometimes it is easier to ask for forgivness than to ask for permission" ;)<br />
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Ally and Mary Lou were the only two who weren't camera shy this year.<br />
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Happy New Year to you and yours! May 2013 be a Year of Increase for you and your family! <br />
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How did you celebrate the end of 2012 and beginning of 2013? Be sure to leave me a comment, I love to read each of them!<br />
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Kim Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-63934986886945201422012-09-13T18:50:00.000-04:002012-09-13T19:04:08.504-04:00LIFEPROOF<br />
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Two essentials for the beach...a great hat and your favorite drink! I wanted to show you a photo of my Lifeproof case but found it impossible to take a picture of my phone with my phone ;) <br />
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The new <a href="http://www.apple.com/">iPhone5</a> was unveiled yesterday. Honestly, I am more than thrilled with my iPhone 4 and have no desire to upgrade but Superman is ready for his contract to allow him to upgrade. I know for certain that when he does get his new phone he will already have a <a href="http://www.lifeproof.com/">Lifeproof </a>case on hand, ready to protect his investment. <br />
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My family surprised me with my white iPhone (remember when "white" was new and exciting? to me, it still is) and I immediately ordered an <a href="http://www.otterbox.com/">Otter Box</a> in bright green to protect my new, favorite toy. It arrived quickly, something like 3 days. My Sunshine gal had to help me get it on my phone and I thought, Oh now my phone is forever protected and this will last a long time. Not so much...it lasted about 8 months. I am not one who drops her phone often or is particularly hard on my electronics so I figured I got a lemon. During this time, I had visited the Apple store for some help with the "cloud". The employee helping me noticed my broken case and shared with me about how wonderful "this new lifeproof case is". I was in OK at the time and couldn't find it at a local store so just settled for another Otterbox, thinking I would get back to NC where I could mail back the broken one and get a refund. Life got in the way, and by the time I was able to mail it back, the 1 year warranty expired. I was now the "proud" owner of two Otterboxes, one of which lasted 8 months and the newest one lasted all of 2 months. Blah! <br />
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In July we had some friends over for dinner and the husband was showing mine his Lifeproof AND the video he had made of his kiddos swimming UNDER water!!! He told us how even at the beach his phone stayed water and sand proof. I was SOLD! I knew I wanted that case but hated to spend another chunk of change.<br />
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My girls and I were at Best Buy in August and I spotted an entire row of brightly colored LIFEPROOF cases!! I was so excited to see one in red, my favorite color! I was going to ask for an exchange (as I had purchased my 2nd Otter from Best Buy) when I realized I had left the pesky clip at home. A few days later Superman and I returned to the same store where I was delighted to find that they were more than happy to give me full credit on my broken Otter in exchange for a Lifeproof! <br />
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A few reasons I think my Lifeproof is the BEST case for my iPhone:<br />
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<em>RED!</em> my favorite color, but they have lots of bright colors from which to choose. <br />
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<em>BEACH!</em> proof, really 100% blowing sand and water proof. I have not had the problem of condensation build up between the screen and protector that I constantly had with the Otter. <br />
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<em>HAIR!</em> my hair no longer gets hung up on the silicone part of the case. <br />
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Just to be fair about the Otter Box, Superman has had his iPhone for about 1 1/2 years with the same Otter Box that he purchased the day he bought his phone and it still works perfectly. He does tell me that the first thing he will purchase for his iPhone5 is a Lifeproof case :) <br />
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Oh, and Lifeproof makes the same great case for your iPad and iPod too! <br />
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What is your new favorite product? <br />
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thanks for stopping by...<br />
Kim <br />
<a href="http://www.lifeproof.com/">Lifeproof </a>Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-70919666247211719322012-09-11T20:37:00.000-04:002012-09-11T20:37:17.561-04:00Cookin Up a Storm! Cooking is relaxing. Well, at least to ME it is relaxing! Today I spent the day "cookin up a storm" while watching <em><strong>The Help</strong></em>. It is my new go-to movie when I want to watch something but need my mind to concentrate on the task at hand. Since both of my daughters are now working and Superman is self employed, meaning he rarely works 9-5, I have to have a meal ready for one of them to eat at odd times during the day and evening. I was stressing over this task until I remembered Investment Cooking, a concept I have taught many times at Pampered Chef shows. So, today was Investment Cooking day and once again, cooking is FUN!!!<br />
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A couple of friends asked me to share one of the meals I often make on Investment Cooking day. I hope you enjoy it too!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>Cheeseburger Soup</em></strong></span><br />
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2.5 pounds of ground beef, browned with garlic. I also season the meat at this time.<br />
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1 large yellow onion, chopped<br />
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5 celery stalks, chopped<br />
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1 teaspoon dried basil<br />
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1 teaspoon dried parsley<br />
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5 cups (or more) chicken broth (I use the store bought, but I keep telling myself I will make some stock to have on hand)<br />
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4 or 5 large turnips, peeled and diced...before you say TURNIPS?! trust me, they are incredible cooked this way. I told my family they were Irish Potatoes (not a complete lie) and they ate them up! This is my man's favorite soup!!<br />
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1 cup heavy cream <br />
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1/2 cup sour cream <br />
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salt/pepper<br />
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your favorite shredded cheese, I use co jack<br />
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In a large stock pot, saute the onion and celery in a little butter. When they are tender, add the chicken broth and turnips. Boil until the turnips are tender but not mushy. Add the seasonings and the ground beef. Boil a few more minutes then slowly add the heavy cream. Allow to simmer til you are ready to serve. Just before serving, add the sour cream. Heat through. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite shredded cheese. This soup reheats very well. It is also a great meal to prepare and then pour into a crock pot to keep warm and ready to eat when you arrive home after a day out. Just prepare a tossed salad and dinner is ready!<br />
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This recipe was given to me by friend who doesn't think cooking is relaxing. She would much rather clean up the kitchen while I cook. We make a great team in the kitchen! <br />
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I know what you are thinking...what does this picture have to do with Cheeseburger Soup?!<br />
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This picture was taken about a year ago in Oklahoma. Meet (bottom row L to R) Shana, Danielle, Ally. Also, (top row) me, Natalie, and Sheryl. We had just watched <strong><em>The Help </em></strong> (the movie I was watching today while I was cooking) and wanted to take a picture of all of us since we are rarely all in one city. Sheryl, my friend who would rather clean up than cook, lives in Istanbul, Turkey, and is the one who shared this recipe with me. <br />
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As you can see, this is the perfect picture for Cheeseburger Soup! <br />
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What cooking challenges are you encountering since summer is almost over? Please leave me a note, I love reading each one!!<br />
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Kiss The Cook~<br />
Kim Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-22799262159844137492012-09-02T20:12:00.001-04:002012-09-02T20:12:24.569-04:00Back to Blogging! <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last year at this time, I was preparing for my final back-to-"school" year. This year I am back-to-blogging! My previous post was supposed to be the start of a commitment to post two or three times a week. As you may have noticed...that didn't happen! Right after we finished helping my friend clean her beach houses (see my last post, Home Sweet Beach Home) our summer whizzed past! Another unexpected, fast trip to Oklahoma and several sets of company later. I am back to my commitment to post, regularly!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Just a sneak peek into our summer...please stop by again soon for more Summer Fun!</span><br />
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One of my favorite ways to spend a spring evening...a wienie roast at a friend's house! <br />
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I have to apologize for the quality of these pictures...all were taken on my iPhone and this is obviously a self portrait. While in OK, I was subpoenaed to testify at a trial. My dear friend offered to accompany me and we joked that we had better take a picture for my blog. A little piece of advice...ALWAYS pack a going-to-court dress! I pack for a wedding, a funeral, a GNO, and a date night whenever we head to OK for an extended period of time but had never even thought of needing a dress to wear to court! Thankfully, all my anxiety was for naught, I wasn't even called to the witness stand! <br />
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Downtown T-Town (Tulsa) taken from our excellent seats at the new, perfectly located for the optimum view, Driller's Stadium. After the baseball game an incredible fireworks display took place. <br />
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Although I had lived in the Tulsa area for 20+ years I had never experienced the Jenks Herb Festival. When a friend invited me to tag along with her and her step mom I jumped at the chance! <br />
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These ladies are the best friends a girl could ask for (minus 3 who were preparing to send a young lady off to Africa). We are so blessed that even though I live in NC and one lives in Istanbul, Turkey, we see each other at least twice a year and always eat at PF Changs for our GNO. <br />
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A day on Skiatook Lake with my man's on his cousin's boat. We have spent hours on this lake making memories with family and friends. <br />
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The REAL reason we traveled to OK. Allyson graduated with her fellow home educated friends who she literally grew up with since the age of one. Here, Andy is presenting me with flowers in honor of Hudson Academy completing the girls' high school education. <br />
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She was ALL smiles!!! </div>
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The Pioneer Woman launched her new cookbook with a party at the Cain's Ballroom, a Tulsa icon. I had never been to the Cains so my dear friend Rhonda joined me for a fun night. I will post more pictures and details soon! </div>
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No trip to Oklahoma would be complete (at least to me) without at least one trip to Williams-Sonoma. At the Utica Square location this cute chef has been carved out of a dead tree. <br />
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I'm so glad you dropped by! Our trip to Oklahoma was full of adventures and I can't wait to share more of them and details of some of those shown above so be sure to return often!<br />
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Tell me about your summer...did you explore some new, exotic location or did you have a staycation? <br />
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Kim <br />
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<span id="goog_912108032"></span><span id="goog_912108033"></span><br />Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-35555746670947233172012-05-21T22:17:00.000-04:002012-05-21T22:17:31.949-04:00Home Sweet Beach Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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OH it is good to be home! My daughters and I have just returned from a two month trip to our hometown in Oklahoma. While we had a great time with friends and family it is just good to be home! </div>
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I have so many fun memories to share with all of you and can't wait to blog about my daughter's graduation and our home state. This week we are embarking on a new adventure...cleaning beach houses! My sweet friend owns a beach house cleaning company and with the holiday weekend approaching she has found herself short staffed. My girls were more than excited when I asked if they would be willing to take this week and help her out. So tomorrow morning we will be up early (6 am!) to head to OIB to get cleaning. </div>
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Thanks for your faithful following...98 of you stopped by last month and I didn't even write a new post! I promise to have new posts up by next Monday!</div>
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Kim </div>Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-42036551363101271062012-03-10T23:03:00.000-05:002012-03-10T23:03:57.964-05:00Change is GOOD!...at least I keep telling myself that this week. <br />
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On Tuesday, my little Sunshine gal finished all of her school work to earn her high school diploma. Yes, I know it is only the beginning of March but when she sets her mind to something, she can accomplish it! Wanting to finish high school before heading to OK to prepare for her graduation with her friends that she grew up with was top on her priority list. With that goal in mind, right after we started back to school after Christmas break she has been working extra hard. On her last day of "class" she completed 5 lessons, 3 quizzes, and 3 tests. I don't know who screamed the loudest, my daughter or myself! As she was rejoicing in her hard work (she made straight A's all through high school) I was realizing that my "job" of educator had come to a very abrupt and anti-climatic end. Or had it? After all, my baby is still only 17 with much to learn about life and I plan to be available as she takes her first steps into this new season. Titus 2:4 commands us as women "That they may teach the young women to be sensible, to love their husbands, to
love their children." KJV I may add a "student" here and there to include other younger women besides the two amazing daughters that God blessed me with, so in reality, my "job" will never end. <br />
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Sunshine gal thinks coffee should be enjoyed as often as possible. I promised her that the day she finished school we would head to Starbucks right away. Natalie went along too and Ally's friend met us but didn't want a coffee...can you imagine? Truth be told, he just wanted to purchase his own as he went back a bit later & ordered one too. We gobbled up that brownie so quick I had to take a picture with just a bite of it left. <br />
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As if finishing high school wasn't enough for one week, she also bought her first pair of heels and opened a checking account this week. Whew, it was just about enough to do me in...but I reminded myself that when we "train up a child in the way they should go, they will not depart from it"(paraphrased) and that this is exactly what is supposed to be happening in her life. She might be kinda mad I shared this picture since her toes weren't painted perfectly but I just had so show off these rockin heels. Such a different choice of footwear from her normal Converse! <br />
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I thought the nice lady who helped her open her checking account might think home educators are really weird if I pulled out my iPhone and took a picture of the process so I will share with you Sunshine's dream car. We came out of the orthodontist office on Wednesday (another event as this was her last check up since having her braces removed) to find this beauty parked right next to me. She just loves VW vans and bugs. This is truly the car she can see herself driving for the rest of her life and I so enjoy teasing her that after she is married she can fill it up with grandbabies for me! But for now, we dream of her driving it with her puppy, Little Lulu, hanging her head out the passenger window while she drives with her long hair flying out the driver's window. Hey, a girl has to have a dream! <br />
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Thanks for letting me share my wonderful, yet full-of-changes week with you. How was YOUR week? Did you have any life changing moments? Or was it just your normal routine, which I personally happen to love, kind of week? Either way, PLEASE leave me a comment. I so enjoy that you took the time to drop by and love reading your notes! <br />
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<br />Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-456758802298680102012-02-28T13:30:00.000-05:002012-02-28T13:30:30.391-05:00National Pancake Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Driving through our small town yesterday I noticed a sign on one of the THIRTY, yes I did say THIRTY restaurants...more on that in a later post, that proclaimed February 28th to be National Pancake Day. I decided to celebrate the day by making a recipe Sunshine Gal and I had discovered on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a> for Cream Cheese Pancakes. The blogger who shared these can be found at <a href="http://www.ibreatheimhungry.com/">I Breathe...I'm Hungry</a> just want to give credit where credit is due!<br />
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Super easy to whip up using three ingredients that I always have on hand. The recipe called for a blender or magic bullet so I was excited to bring out my Bosch. It is the best "machine" I have ever bought. <br />
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I just cracked 4 eggs, added 4 ounces of cream cheese, and about a tablespoon of Splenda in my blender and hit pulse a few times. While the bubbles settled, I heated up my Grill Pan from <a href="http://www.thepamperedchef.com/">The Pampered Chef</a> then poured a bit of the batter right in the center. <br />
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I did season the pan with just a small amount of butter before pouring on the batter. <br />
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Just like a traditional pancake, these bubbled up when ready to flip but oh joy! they flipped so much more easily than those flour pancakes! Sorry for the photo quality, but I am not the photographer in this family! <br />
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Ta Da!!! This was really the third pancake, I ate the first two right away after dipping them in some of my favorite sugar free syrup. Delish!!! <br />
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The only sugar free syrup that tastes like the real stuff. No after taste either! <br />
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In the past we have made <a href="http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/">The Pioneer Woman's </a>Sour Cream Pancakes. They are super yummy and like the cream cheese version easy to whip up. I did have some trouble getting them done in the center (but then again, I have never been a great pancake cooker) and still have some carbs from the small amount of flour. All in all, our family does prefer them over the traditional mixes we have tried. <br />
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I keep these on hand at all time too. The Griffins Syrup is an Oklahoma made product. I discovered this after moving to the coast and searching everywhere for this family favorite. Thankfully, our family and friends who travel to see us always bring us a jug or two. One friend had such pity on us, that she shipped a few bottles priority mail in one of those "fit as much as you can in this and ship it for a low price" boxes. I think the USPS got taken on that one! <br />
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So, after tasting each of these completely different pancakes, my Sunshine Gal and I have decided that our favorite is the Cream Cheese Pancake. <br />
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What is your favorite pancake recipe? Please share it with me and my followers...we all so enjoy reading your comments! <br />
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</div>Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-78044659934215205502012-02-10T00:06:00.002-05:002012-02-10T00:06:41.284-05:00Are We Listening?Tonight Superman and I took time for a much needed adult dinner out. Not a date night, mind you, but just a quick bite to eat before heading back to his shop to help him get some work finished so he can get back on the road tomorrow. I married the hardest working man I know...he has been working non stop for about the past month. I just was so glad he asked me to tag along to eat and run an errand, I really didn't care what we ate...I am sure many of you know exactly what I am talking about, men who work so hard to provide for their families and give so much to us! <br />
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We were enjoying our Jammin Jalapeno Wings and fried pickles at <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">www.buffalowildwings.com </a>when I heard a little girl voice "daddy, daddy" many times. My husband caught my eye and he too, realized what a sweet, little girl voice it was calling to her daddy over and over. "Daddy, please listen to me. Daddy, did you hear me?" I promise, this went on for at least 5 minutes. Broke my heart. To the core. Made my heart SAD. You know the kind of sad I am talking about, at least many of you do. Many of you, you who are so blessed to have had the daddy who hung the moon, will not understand. I told my husband how that sweet, little, sing-song voice was breaking my heart. He said the most profound statement. "One day, she won't say Daddy, Daddy anymore and she will find a boy who will answer that Daddy, Daddy and then her daddy will say WHAT happened?! to my little girl? and he will truly have no clue." Then, he looked across the room to the table where a teen aged boy with green hair, lots of piercings, and rebellion written all over his face sat and said, "that boy, the one with the green hair, HE will listen, HE will pay attention to her, and that daddy will not have a clue where he failed and when he lost his little girl." I said, you should go over, speak to that daddy...tell him how precious this time is with his little girl and encourage him to listen to her. He just shook his head and sadly said, "no, not my fight". <br />
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I write this not because I am judging the father, maybe he was exhausted, maybe he just lost his job, maybe he just found out someone he loves is very ill...and not because I think that all green haired, pierced young men are full of rebellion and out to cause trouble. I write this to say...I am so thankful that my man has raised our two daughters in a way that constantly amazes me! Just last Sunday he was finally able to head home after being on the road for a week and having very little sleep. As usual, he called to say he was headed our way and did we need anything? I told him that Natalie was supposed to wear a jersey for praise team that morning at church (we are not sports fans and didn't have one to represent our new home state in the house) so he offered to stop to pick one up for her (Oh, and does Ally want one too, he asked?) even though he had only slept for 3 hours in the past 48 hours. That's the kind of daddy my man is! He is devoted to teaching them to be young ladies, to honor and respect their mother, to look for a husband...not an every-Friday-night-date, to follow their dreams, and most of all...to be the young lady God created them to be. <br />
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So tonight I was once again reminded....listen to the little girl, when she is 20 and a grown young woman trying to find her way in this world, listen to the little girl, who is graduating from high school and ready to make some adult decisions, to the little girl in her tweens who doesn't see her value or beauty, to the little girl, who is only 5 but learning to live without her daddy due to a divorce, and to the little girl in an adult woman who is hurting because she never had a daddy who listened. Then, point each of them to Jesus, the best daddy God has given ALL of his children, male or female. Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-59608300477494585652012-01-16T22:46:00.001-05:002012-01-16T22:46:56.898-05:00Charleston, Charleston...a Road Trip!Sun, Seafood, Sand, and Surf...all found within eight minutes of my front door. The Apple Store...a 2 hour, 3 hour, or 4 hour drive depending on which city in North or South Carolina you would like to visit.<br />
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On Saturday we chose the 2 hour drive to Charleston, SC, which turned into more of a 3.5 hour drive as Superman worked a bit on the way to my favorite South Carolina city. My Sunshine gal was having problems with her itouch and if you know my youngest, you know how much of a problem this truly was...let's just say, I don't know of anyone who has literally worn out three itouches in just about as many years. We had just purchased this one in June at our local electronics store but of course, Apple products are only serviced by Apple stores. While I was irritated that it broke so quickly (her "home" button was stuck on "home"), I was more than happy to take a road trip to a city which the girls and I had visited one day last March when my friend was in town visiting me. Superman had driven through this historic city but had never spent any time exploring...so off we went! <br />
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Arriving in the downtown district we encountered traffic...I do mean traffic!!! Superman was less than pleased...he really would prefer not to shop on his days off but wanted to spend the day with his ladies & knew we had to fix that itouch. We finally found a parking spot on the 5th floor of a public garage. I think it was one of less than 10 that were empty.<br />
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I failed to grab my actual camera on the way out the door but of course, I had my iPhone which is what I used to snap the few photos of the day. I used to be so diligent in taking photos but these days I seem to be so "into the moment" when exploring new cities that I take the picture in my mind on not on my camera or iPhone. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the cruise ships docked in the port. Superman and I had an "ah ha!" moment...we have always wanted to take a cruise but didn't think of setting sail so close to home. Might be in the trips to consider for our 25th anniversary which is coming soon! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cooper Bridge. A bit intimidating to drive across the first time but after that it is just fun and gives such a vast view. I didn't think to take a night photo but it is beautiful, full of lights! <br />
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These two photos were taken from the parking garage. Not only did it give us a place to leave our car, but gave us some amazing views! <br />
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The Apple Store was first on our agenda. Sunshine gal was all smiles when they replaced her itouch with a brand new one. Next stop? Brookstone to get Superman a new helicopter. The girls had bought him a remote controlled flying machine with all the bell and whistles for Christmas and all I can say, is thank goodness I purchased the extra warranty. As we were heading into the store I noticed this interesting building across the street. It was dusk so forgive my photos but I want to give you a true glimpse into the history of the deep South. <br />
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When I first saw this building and pointed it out to my family I reasoned that it was probably an old train depot. I failed to get a picture of the length of it which would help to show why I thought it was a train depot. While the manager at Brookstone was swapping out helicopter I inquired about the building. When she told us it was an old slave market my hubby and I were shocked. Being from the Mid-West we studied the history of the deep South and of course, we have discussed it more since moving to the area but have never actually seen anything that would be tied to that controversial time in American history. She explained that now the upper floor houses the <a href="http://www.csa-scla.org/articles/ConfederateMuseum.htm">United Daughter's of the Confederacy </a> while the bottom is an open air shopping area. <br />
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After walking through the market, we used our iPhone GPS to get us to the restaurant that the nice lady at Brookstone raved about. I have learned to ask the locals where to eat, they know the best places! She promised an old, two story, brick building, short wait time, and delicious food. We found everything she promised and then some as we got another history lesson from our waiter. I managed to get a photo of the sign before the sun set and we headed on in for some dinner. <a href="http://www.southendbrewery.com/">The Southend Brewery and Smokehouse </a><br />
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The building which the resturant calls home is on the National Register of Historic Places. Our waiter gaves us tons of history about the building which will be something you can inquire about when you get to drop in for dinner. <br />
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<a _blank?="" href="http://southendbrewery.com/charleston-restaurant-week-menu-%E2%80%98southend-brewery-smokehouse%E2%80%99/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="94" src="http://southendbrewery.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/restweek-e1325650908225.jpg" width="200" /></a>I was excited to see that we had come on just the right night as Charleston was featuring Restaurant Week. The menu was large but I immediately knew that I wanted to order from the special menu. <br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<em>Starters</em></h3>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Smoked Pork and Green Chili Enchilada with Guajillo Pepper and Pict’s Stout Mole. *</div>
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OR</div>
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Alligator Sauce Piquant with Jalapeno Toast Points</div>
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<em>Entrées</em></h3>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Blackened Catfish with Sautéed Mirliton, Roasted Andouille and Béarnaise *</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
OR</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Chicken Clemençeau</div>
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<em>Desserts</em></h3>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Chocolate and Pecan Pie *</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
OR</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Red Velvet Cake</div>
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The selections which I have * are the ones I chose and of course, I took photos to share with you. I am sure your mouth is watering...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLkAS332MfoR43eUIM9vM16dQoX6uEzmdEPp35F4QF7kSe5qXcyt9K72w2Njffp_H9kIjJt9deDLZOCfjwGsaYY4Ph0JNYUdEgGhvrqIkTv1VD-pIVdupjndup8MoZ_JA5idAz_h0xP0/s1600/iphone+01162012+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLkAS332MfoR43eUIM9vM16dQoX6uEzmdEPp35F4QF7kSe5qXcyt9K72w2Njffp_H9kIjJt9deDLZOCfjwGsaYY4Ph0JNYUdEgGhvrqIkTv1VD-pIVdupjndup8MoZ_JA5idAz_h0xP0/s640/iphone+01162012+047.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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All three were delish! After our waiter left, we joked about his pronunciation of the Chocolate Pecan, PEE-Can, pie since of course, we all KNOW it is Pecan, Pu-Chan pie. ;)<br />
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I took some pics of the food the rest of my family ate too...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyCdipaiZKOZwgZRy_C9S81F7VYv9jKlqEluJl8Fr6qu-Uc6PhJrgOrHaNokg7GtPd5zbmVMGR-q7LiPG2SXZYnjxhM7NbwmCrfHZChRASo-qnsbBoHgLfhHI3L0wBM3sHxJQyv-sZpE8/s1600/iphone+01162012+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyCdipaiZKOZwgZRy_C9S81F7VYv9jKlqEluJl8Fr6qu-Uc6PhJrgOrHaNokg7GtPd5zbmVMGR-q7LiPG2SXZYnjxhM7NbwmCrfHZChRASo-qnsbBoHgLfhHI3L0wBM3sHxJQyv-sZpE8/s640/iphone+01162012+046.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She Crab Soup...I ordered this too as I just had to taste it! Very good and a bit sweeter than some that I have tried in other establishments. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPl2ehZTRDEn4Y_YDGmcSMLbVfAirMmWC3PWh1Zc9Z8s5UZiiQkSwvJ1R7Zyi6kG8umTZCltf0T2ivkhIEGtoe2RXVWwXAMFBgV4iD3PjlnN3XH9THpShu8lsbrhyeBmkcwgZUPNBb7k/s1600/iphone+01162012+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPl2ehZTRDEn4Y_YDGmcSMLbVfAirMmWC3PWh1Zc9Z8s5UZiiQkSwvJ1R7Zyi6kG8umTZCltf0T2ivkhIEGtoe2RXVWwXAMFBgV4iD3PjlnN3XH9THpShu8lsbrhyeBmkcwgZUPNBb7k/s640/iphone+01162012+048.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Superman had the steak...and yes, I tried it too! He and Sunshine Gal shared their meals as they both wanted to try the steak and the...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrAOPEfmJ3f8pPKrZFETJSzMxe3p_dtIiB_5WTdtuqoKKFMvRo5gaZ01aEQekebK1ONZnyeBZx2F9h-vacravxNLrtoGRvB9PuvXIzU53Af2zxepWwSuuT4lYW1TkxHYeuTKTQgPHqQeg/s1600/iphone+01162012+049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrAOPEfmJ3f8pPKrZFETJSzMxe3p_dtIiB_5WTdtuqoKKFMvRo5gaZ01aEQekebK1ONZnyeBZx2F9h-vacravxNLrtoGRvB9PuvXIzU53Af2zxepWwSuuT4lYW1TkxHYeuTKTQgPHqQeg/s640/iphone+01162012+049.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Fried Steak. The space on the plate is due to the other chicken fried steak had already been placed on Superman's plate...just keepin it real as a fellow blogger stated about her photos :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvz6PB04_HZ-IYlJzZ8UGZsiZn6yhkehWWz3HdsujCB4zxmNFnN_TsfHlwUxv4XmAevg_Zf8cUnbpes9M_sxX2TWhHtVyAQ82YqyKDgQz86GfOjnRCSLsBAdepmPEw588mfKydLsTQwM/s1600/iphone+01162012+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvz6PB04_HZ-IYlJzZ8UGZsiZn6yhkehWWz3HdsujCB4zxmNFnN_TsfHlwUxv4XmAevg_Zf8cUnbpes9M_sxX2TWhHtVyAQ82YqyKDgQz86GfOjnRCSLsBAdepmPEw588mfKydLsTQwM/s640/iphone+01162012+053.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brownie with Vanilla Bean ice cream...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztZDWGSV0kLYUNLz9Gz_SlHDwEMZysDEdwgb3jLoGF97q0mciBau3uO38DpMhLfMMu_dLgKZQI544LVGle5vLxe3jtzMAV59Yrur1PlVIIFIuuMXDDatURrbOA1iWOeh489HKJe9-MhM/s1600/iphone+01162012+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztZDWGSV0kLYUNLz9Gz_SlHDwEMZysDEdwgb3jLoGF97q0mciBau3uO38DpMhLfMMu_dLgKZQI544LVGle5vLxe3jtzMAV59Yrur1PlVIIFIuuMXDDatURrbOA1iWOeh489HKJe9-MhM/s640/iphone+01162012+054.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon-Lime Tart...for those who know me personally you will be surprised to know I didn't even try it. </td></tr>
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While eating dinner we actually debated on spending the night so we could explore more of the city the next day. Remembering we had made commitments to be greeters at church the next morning we decided to make a full weekend trip another time. As we were leaving the hostess called a bike taxi for us as the walk back to the Apple Store (I had a later appointment to get my iPhone looked at) was quite long and it was getting cold. Besides, we wanted to re enact a family photo that we took in Denver, Colorado, on a trip to downtown when the girls were small. <br />
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This is my all time favorite pic of my family on vacation in Colorado. We were in downtown Denver just after Christmas in a horse drawn carriage to see the lights. It was the best night! I am so thankful for digital photography, this was taken on a point n shoot on film!<br />
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The quality isn't much better but the memories are just as wonderful! My babies have grown up and Superman and I are a bit older. So glad we could squeeze into the bike carriage for a picture! We didn't want to break the back of the bike rider so we opted for two separate carriages. What a fun way to see more of the city on the way back to our destination. Super inexpensive too, at just 18.00 for both carriages! <br />
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Our road trip was fun and as I drove home, the other three fell asleep. I scanned the Sirius radio and listened briefly to the Republican debate before settling on Siriusly Sinatra. After we arrived home, Superman turned on the tv only to see that the FoxNews debate I had heard was live in downtown Charleston! We all laughed and laughed...no wonder so many people were downtown, parking was almost gone, two men asked us how to get to some auditorium, and all of those people were pouring out of a convention center as we were leaving town. Leave it to us to miss something so big that was right in front of us! <br />
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How was your weekend? Did you take a road trip? Please leave me a note, I truly enjoy reading each and every one of them! <br />
<br />Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-27039817070356315822012-01-02T21:49:00.000-05:002012-01-02T22:17:10.543-05:00Turkey Pot Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Turkey. The word has taken on new meaning to me in the past few years. Around the same time Superman started his new adventure in NC my dear friend, Sheryl, who blogs at <a href="http://www.thealteredpassport.blogspot.com/">The Altered Passport </a>and her hubby started looking into their own adventure in Istanbul, Turkey. These days when I hear turkey, I immediately recall my trip to Istanbul last summer. I plan to share that trip with you in the near future so be watching for future "Turkey" posts. <br />
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November brings Thanksgiving and my oldest daughter's birthday in the same week so often our left over turkey doesn't get eaten the first few days and is usually tossed in the freezer for a later reheat. This year, I decided to make a turkey pot pie and turned to my favorite online recipe source <a href="http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/">The Pioneer Woman</a> for a little help. Not finding a recipe, I looked in her first cookbook which has taken up permanent residence on my recipe stand and found one for chicken pot pie. Reasoning that both chicken and turkey are foul I used her recipe and added my own twist for a perfect pot pie! <br />
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My twist on her pot pie:<br />
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6 celery stalks, chopped<br />
handful of baby carrots, chopped<br />
1 sweet onion , chopped<br />
1 stick of butter<br />
1 cup frozen peas<br />
1 cup frozen corn<br />
4 cups cooked, chopped turkey...I used larger bite sized pieces<br />
1 cup all-purpose flour<br />
2 cups turkey stock, which I saved from the day I baked my turkey and didn't use for the gravy<br />
2 chicken bouillon cubes <br />
3/4 cup white wine<br />
1 cup heavy cream<br />
2 heaping teaspoons thyme<br />
salt and pepper<br />
2 Pillsbury pie crusts <br />
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I just melted the butter in my large skillet then added the veggies and cooked until the onion was clear. Then I added the turkey and flour and stirred it all together. I cooked it for just a few minutes before I added the turkey stock, bouillon cubes, wine, and cream. I simmered this until it was just thickened. I seasoned this with the thyme, salt, and pepper. I tasted it just to make sure the seasonings were right. YUM! was all I can say! While all of this was cooking on top of the stove, I had a pie crust baking in my stone in the oven. I baked it until it was just browned then poured in the pot pie mixture. I topped the mixture with another crust, adding the cute little cut out hearts for some "lovin from my oven". Baked it at 400 until it was deep brown and flaky. It was yummmm!!!<br />
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Just a side note, that night I actually had enough to make one deep dish pie and a small pie in my small deep dish baker, both from The Pampered Chef. I could have froze the extra filling for a later date. I baked a turkey a few days before Christmas as Superman thinks turkey should be served at every holiday and while our cousins were here from OK I made two pot pies and enough filling to freeze for a pot pie in the future. I just love the cook once, eat twice concept! <br />
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Just thought I would share what I have been experimenting with in my kitchen. What is your latest recipe that you have tried? <br />
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Be sure to leave me a comment, I do read each and every one! <br />
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<br />Linking up to <a href="http://www.threemangoseeds.blogspot.com/">The Three Mango Seeds </a><br />
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<br />Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-72797482248125230292012-01-01T23:06:00.003-05:002012-01-01T23:06:54.157-05:00Happy New Year Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhg7qZKMUQr7fh-U8Et3HmI26LgUQbpCJcFQ7bq7c6x41Vkwxh3c90sdR8WkR-tkErWi5axKH0aTXFKLRKtRVv6VSy_SfQKxvKqOKBQ1bcDzTkUKRfQeGOLP9xw4gl0IWiUj8wR-JbSQ/s1600/SeptOct+2010+176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhg7qZKMUQr7fh-U8Et3HmI26LgUQbpCJcFQ7bq7c6x41Vkwxh3c90sdR8WkR-tkErWi5axKH0aTXFKLRKtRVv6VSy_SfQKxvKqOKBQ1bcDzTkUKRfQeGOLP9xw4gl0IWiUj8wR-JbSQ/s400/SeptOct+2010+176.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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WHEW! 2011 sure ended with a bang, literally, in our family! My hubby crashed his Harley into an 18 wheeler, Oh I mean...fell off a ladder while working on Dec 23rd causing him some major pain and injury. He likes the first story, it is so much more interesting! Being self employeed, this caused him some great difficulty. Thankfully, his cousin was already on vacation and offered to head out to NC from OK to help him out. What a blessing to our entire family as he brought his wife, one of his daughters, and two of his grandsons with him!! We enjoyed having family with us to help bring in the new year and Superman was oh-so-grateful to have help with his work. Okie cousin worked hard while he was here and helped Superman so much! Superman still isn't flying around yet, but we believe he is on the road to recovery. <br />
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On the 30th while the men were out working hard, all of us girlies and the two little guys decided to head to Myrtle Beach for the day. An accident quickly changed our plans for a fun filled day. My daughters and I were in one car with the others following right behind. As I was attemping to turn into a gas station BAM! we were hit on the back drivers side of my car. Thankfully, we suffered no major injuries and know that a few visits to a chiropractor will have us feeling good as new in no time. My car, my all time favorite car, the car I have driven cross country many times, the car Superman bought me and I called to thank him at least once a day for the first month I had her, the car that we have filled up many times for trips to the lake and the beach, the car that is no longer being built by Dodge, is not looking too good. I included a picture of her at the top of my blog. You can tell how much luggage she can haul and that is Little Lulu peeking out of the back seat. She is always afraid we are going to leave her behind! Can you tell how much I super like this car?! She was taken away by a tow truck and we will have to see if she can be repaired. Even though our day was suddenly changed, I am thankful on many levels. We were not seriously injured, the babies were NOT in my car, my cousin was not only able to avoid hitting the man who hit me but was also right there to help calm me down, remind me to call 911 then my man, to take pictures of both cars, to help me know exactly what happened as I never saw the man who hit me coming...I was hit from behind, to take us back to my house even though it took two trips, to help me laugh through it all (we joked, well, today was a waste of hair and makeup!), and then to take me to pick up the rental car. What would I have done with out her?! I am just so thakful that she was here! <br />
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After that CRAZY day we were all in agreement that New Year's Eve night would be spent at home, far away from the danger of the roads. We did venture out to Sharkey's in Ocean Isle Beach for some delish seafood for lunch before staying if for the night. My girls invited some friends over and we all had a great time eating, dancing with the wii, and shooting off some fireworks!<br />
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Hope your 2011 ended with much less excitement than ours and as we enter 2012 please remember what is MOST important in life. Jesus, Family, and Friends...what would we do without them? <br />
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Happy New Years!<br />
<br />Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-36524593477528221102011-12-25T07:00:00.000-05:002011-12-25T07:00:10.203-05:00Jesus We Remember it's Your Birthday!<br />
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MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY! MAY JESUS BE THE REASON YOU CELEBRATE TODAY!!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZin0eVADm5JET8nkP6ufL6s9ouY6cQIxG17uekReemRdEwrX1UIdjZvSbVSItLrwdHkOgl19EozWck2Dc_AbcsS7ic1FfmjqBbpcjvkaAz334ZPWQa81ntQzKsvSVFCB6-o6rIyRfco/s1600/125115695867503252_M23I4krF_b%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="191" width="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZin0eVADm5JET8nkP6ufL6s9ouY6cQIxG17uekReemRdEwrX1UIdjZvSbVSItLrwdHkOgl19EozWck2Dc_AbcsS7ic1FfmjqBbpcjvkaAz334ZPWQa81ntQzKsvSVFCB6-o6rIyRfco/s400/125115695867503252_M23I4krF_b%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div>Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-18051625932384638962011-12-24T09:00:00.000-05:002011-12-24T09:45:09.420-05:00A Christmas Quiz!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYsHzyyt2c2xhy6PGl1suEHuVf072ZDfHqqaLTVlD9xZ1sJSWCHp_GVZ1jamP2grHtQTRj8YKb_aOHnYfVHeWDRyG3LjtwBqSexXb9ZCS4scqejZmso7p8MFc-2PEplPaLElQMdhdIsQ/s1600/68961438013739277_zAu8xOX7_b%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="283" width="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYsHzyyt2c2xhy6PGl1suEHuVf072ZDfHqqaLTVlD9xZ1sJSWCHp_GVZ1jamP2grHtQTRj8YKb_aOHnYfVHeWDRyG3LjtwBqSexXb9ZCS4scqejZmso7p8MFc-2PEplPaLElQMdhdIsQ/s400/68961438013739277_zAu8xOX7_b%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Thanks to Jesse over at www.goodgirlgoneglad.com for letting me borrow her quiz idea. Be sure after to leave me a note that you drop by her blog to sweet her sweet post! <br />
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1. Egg nog or hot chocolate? Hot Cocoa.<i> I so enjoy experimenting with different flavors. Starbucks serves up a delish Salted Carmel Hot Cocoa!</i><br />
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2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? <i>My daughters are 17 and 20 so they know Santa's real identity. We never gave Santa credit for any gifts, just the fun stuff in their stockings. We just felt that Daddy worked hard all year to buy their gifts and they should know he bought them for his girls. We wrap all of the gifts under the tree and stuff the stockings with small items</i>. <br />
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3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? <i>White on the tree, Colored on the house <br />
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</i>4. Do you hang mistletoe? <i>Nope, although since it is Oklahoma's state flower I suppose I should make the effort. I have always found it to be very odd that the state "flower" is actually a fungus</i>.<br />
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5. When do you put your decorations up? <i>Since my older girlie was born on a date that often falls on Thanksgiving I always waited until after her birthday so that she would feel her day was truly all about her. As she has gotten older and we tend to celebrate her birthday somewhere besides at home, we put them up on Thanksgiving afternoon/evening</i>. <br />
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6. What is your favorite holiday dish? <i>I love all of them but it wouldn't be Christmas without my hot apple cider made with mulling spices from Williams Sonoma. <br />
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</i>7. Favorite holiday memory as a child? <i>The year I got the worst "present", chicken pox! But what made it a good memory was my grandparents were at our house, they usually spent the winters in Arizona, and I got a new doll. I just loved baby dolls when I was a little girl. Still do!<br />
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8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? <i>I was either 7 or 8. We lived in Colorado and Santa dropped by our house. I really don't know if it was Christmas Eve or just right before Christmas. I was told to go to bed as soon as he left. When I got to my room, I peeked out the window and saw him driving off in an RV. I really have not a clue who that man was, but guessed he was a friend of my parents. After that, I knew my parents were actually Santa. <br />
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</i>9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?<i> Of course! I have bought my family PJ's since the girls were small to open on Christmas Eve. It's fun to spend Christams morning in our new jammies. <br />
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10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? <i> Which one? hehehe. In OK we have a traditional green tree decorated with an angel on top, tons of red wooden beads strung on a string, and the ornaments we have collected since Superman and I were in high school. We buy one each year to signify a major event or a trip we have taken that year. In my OK dining room I have a green tree with a star on top, white bulbs/balls, and hand cut from card stock fleur de lis. I have been known to leave this tree up through Valentines Day! In our NC house I chose a white tree and have decorated it with a sea theme complete with an anchor on the top. This year, the white tree is full of colored bulbs and a star on top. <br />
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11. Snow! Love it or dread it? <i>I have a love/hate relationship with snow. Since I grew up in Colorado, I enjoyed it as a child. No responsiblity, just got to play in it! Now, however, that has changed so IF I can stay home and just watch it fall, it is beautiful. If I have to get out in it and it is deep or the roads are slick I hate it. In OK we experienced an ice storm that made history. Our house was without electricity for 13 days! Living in NC I no longer have to decide if I love it or dread it, the only white stuff here is the sand!<br />
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12. Can you ice skate? <i>Yes! Since taking ballroom dance lessons I have greatly improved. I credit the lessons for teaching me the proper posture and balance needed to ice skate. <br />
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13. Do you remember your favorite gift? <i>I have to say I have two that are tied for favorite. My diamond necklace that my hubby bought for me about 6 years ago and the ballroom dance lessons he completely surprised me with about 5 years ago. Diamonds and a guaranteed date night every Friday night for 2 years, what could be better?<br />
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</i>14. What’s the most important thing about the holidays for you? <i>Jesus. I am constantly trying to point my family back to Him and love how God shows me unique ways to teach about Jesus every year. <br />
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15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? <i>Cherry Cheesecake, fudge, and cookies</i>! <br />
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16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? <i>I know this may be silly...but having my girls' pics made with Santa. When we lived in OK we always went to Santa's house at Utica Square for a high quality photo. Just standing outdoors in the cold with other families waiting for our turn, seeing all of the decorations in the square, and dropping by Starbucks created many memories for us through the years. Having a picture of my girls in the same location each year allows me to look back and see them grow up right before my eyes. <br />
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</i>17. What tops your tree? <i>Depends on the tree...we have two stars and one angel, as well as an anchor! I know an anchor seems strange, but after all, Jesus is my Anchor!<br />
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18. Which do you prefer: giving or receiving? <i>Giving! I just love to watch eyes light up when someone is truly surprised or gets something they have wanted for a long time.<br />
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</i>19. Candy canes: yuck or yummy? <i>Yuck. Unless they are chocolate covered and used in hot cocoa or used as decorations.<br />
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20. Favorite Christmas show? <i>A Charlie Brown Christmas, see my previous post. <br />
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</i>21. Saddest Christmas song? <i> The Christmas Shoes song...I don't know the exact name of it but it touches my heart every time I hear it sung. <br />
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</i>22. What is your favorite Christmas song? <i>I truly don't have a favorite, I just love all Christmas music. The top five? Mary Did You Know?, Silent Night, A Baby Changes Everything by Faith Hill, The Charlie Brown Christmas music/song, and Santa Baby. </i> <br />
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I hope that you are all finished with your Christmas preparations and will be able to spend the day with your families!<br />
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Merry Christmas Eve!<br />
<br />Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-55623444194081132412011-12-23T06:00:00.000-05:002011-12-22T20:58:40.979-05:00A Sweet ProjectYears ago the home school group that we are members of in OK made a GIANT gingerbread house for a fundraising event called Festival of the Trees at the Philbrook Museum of the Arts. The houses that were donated by groups like ours were on display for a short time, then auctioned off. We were given tickets to attend a showing of the houses before the public opening. I honestly don't remember if the money raised at the auction went to the museum or to an organization. While it was a lot of fun building the house with about 30 children, it was also a bit chaotic for this super organized momma. I like to enjoy projects, not be completely stressed out by them and I think the other moms agreed, so that was the last year our entire home school group joined forces to create a big house. <br />
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The next year I began the tradition with my own two girls. One year we made two and took one to our pastor's elderly mother to enjoy. The girls (and myself!) enjoy making them so much that I have often purchased extra kits after Christmas for as little as $2.00 to use on other holidays such as Valentines and Easter. The girls are excited about making one this year on Saint Patricks Day. <br />
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After building so many houses we have decided that the trick to making them look amazing is to buy lots of extra (generic brand) frosting and candy. Since Superman LOVES candy, left overs are never a problem at our house! <br />
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Here is a step by step of the house being built this year....<br />
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The items needed to make the perfect gingerbread house<br />
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Walls are up and ready for the roof to go on!<br />
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It takes two!<br />
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My girlies~they are becoming quite the gingerbread house experts!<br />
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Ally and Tyler. This is the second house he has helped to build. Last Easter he and Ally built one that was super cute!<br />
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The smiles show how happy they all were with the finished house.<br />
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the front complete with a yellow "brick" road...<br />
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Ally's side...love her twist on the lettering...<br />
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Natalie's side with a window...<br />
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Tyler designed the back of the house. He pointed out that he made a sled out of two candy canes and a triscut with two gum drops as "kids". <br />
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What is your favorite craft project during Christmas time?<br />
<br />Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-36264910348373720012011-12-22T22:09:00.000-05:002011-12-22T22:09:16.090-05:00Guest Post from The Three Mango Seeds<br />
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Thank you, Clydia, so much for inviting me to share about my family's Christmas traditions and decorations. I hope to share my heart of wanting to make this month fun but still focused on Jesus and maybe even inspire some new traditions in your family! I also have to give some love to my daughter, Natalie of The Lime Lens, for taking most of the photos you will see in this post. <br />
I have to be honest, when she first approached me I was just so excited to get started. When I actually started to prepare the photos, ideas, and etc...I began to get a bit of the Christmas blues. I honestly am content and love living to in NC about 98% of the time, but then the holidays approach and I am reminded again of the many traditions, parties, decorations, church activities, and family events we will be missing. I had to remind myself that "living to seas the moment" really means I have to grab hold of what I have to work with and make it fun! I am blessed to have such a beautifully furnished and decorated home to live in here at the beach. The following pictures show how I completely left my idea of a picture perfect green and red Christmas in OK and expanded my ideas to include our color scheme here in NC. I am pleased with the results and have actually enjoyed the more less is more approach of decorating. By the time I was finished with my post, I had my focus back where it belonged, on Jesus. Thanks for stopping by!<br />
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Just thought I would share my original post from a guest post day over at The Three Mango Seeds. Be sure to scroll all the way to the end for my favorite picture! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the view when looking up at the entrance of our house. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmMtinDQ6o8V3IFMtzuSVQMeqpkQYBDT8qSHSk09OL0PjoCS2ozoA-LEy3196kk3XO11KOyjzZ6BqW3tY6VhprS5sWlZoG_j6EeEtACoMR2ADnxe2Jvhf0v6ohYq0BaoL560DqH6bQzI/s1600/bow+banister.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmMtinDQ6o8V3IFMtzuSVQMeqpkQYBDT8qSHSk09OL0PjoCS2ozoA-LEy3196kk3XO11KOyjzZ6BqW3tY6VhprS5sWlZoG_j6EeEtACoMR2ADnxe2Jvhf0v6ohYq0BaoL560DqH6bQzI/s640/bow+banister.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This anchor, as well as the other elements on this and the banister, were on the tree for the first two Christmas seasons in NC. My daughters let me know this year that they would really like to get a more traditional look so I just used those elements on these areas instead. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0r5-Cj6QMyP0X2A5LX9UQlzGIsdakPIO-gwKKHnp0dLZ7R1bMan_aIh_UIFOZYfrOMcN7dcwh0gw23C5pCmiYPk36ZPw4G2puiIsOZM1rM0anZvWIzMVUlsizh8orFT0VnXuryEwt7ss/s1600/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0r5-Cj6QMyP0X2A5LX9UQlzGIsdakPIO-gwKKHnp0dLZ7R1bMan_aIh_UIFOZYfrOMcN7dcwh0gw23C5pCmiYPk36ZPw4G2puiIsOZM1rM0anZvWIzMVUlsizh8orFT0VnXuryEwt7ss/s640/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+087.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The banister was fun to decorate. I have wanted a banister to decorate for a long time, so I really enjoy the finished results!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxzuQrntFafluY9crGKETkgBMzgIQg-o_Mhhx96UdNW6kpnsit3_2tRV2-vWVB7hwkqYSP7my09_2oEC9KYf03ZcP82uAY8DE-uHrVdFnonzWU5JKXqod_YqOxTMv05XoiAWEIRWUd9o/s1600/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxzuQrntFafluY9crGKETkgBMzgIQg-o_Mhhx96UdNW6kpnsit3_2tRV2-vWVB7hwkqYSP7my09_2oEC9KYf03ZcP82uAY8DE-uHrVdFnonzWU5JKXqod_YqOxTMv05XoiAWEIRWUd9o/s640/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+027.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Flamingos. My family is divided about these birds. Half of us like the birds the other half, not so much. I happen to be on the " I like them side of it" so I decided they needed a little Christmas fun...</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, isn't that better? Their heads will stay warm while keeping our hats ready to grab as we run out the door. Much more festive looking too, don't you think? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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I made the peacock ornaments last year after seeing them used in many Christmas decorations. This year I just added some of the bulbs we didn't use on the tree. This light fixture hangs in the formal dining room, which gets used at least 5 nights a week. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7SU4QKGFP2zEeiEcAmkvfBEe92fJ8v-0472GpMtfqd0Mj1WqOAkW9GEAP3vZuoh_OYOMIIBqdxfrpjjq86j0ReAFCmZvI-jCnMW9KVv4RcElRzU-WxLB7QTVIcs9yHvWINZOgyTFwvD8/s1600/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7SU4QKGFP2zEeiEcAmkvfBEe92fJ8v-0472GpMtfqd0Mj1WqOAkW9GEAP3vZuoh_OYOMIIBqdxfrpjjq86j0ReAFCmZvI-jCnMW9KVv4RcElRzU-WxLB7QTVIcs9yHvWINZOgyTFwvD8/s640/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+047.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This year we added color to our tree and a few personal ornaments we have picked up in the past two years. Our OK tree is full of tradition as we have added at least one ornament each year since Superman and I met when we were 15 years old. We picked these colorful bulbs up in a big pack at Sam's club which made for quick decorating. A star on top perfects the tree.<br />
The bell hanging on the bottom branch is for our dog, Lulu, to ring. She just loves to use her paw to ring "her" bell each Christmas. She started this a few years ago after we hung bells we rang at a December wedding, when the bride and groom made their exit, on the bottom branches of our tree. It is also a great way to know if she or any small children are close to the tree.<br />
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Meet Presley! He has come to live at our house this year after I saw so many cute pictures on Pinterest. I really didn't know exactly what The Elf on the Shelf concept was but was looking for new traditions in our new home so I grabbed him up at a Hallmark store and began to search for ways to make some fun. My family was a bit apprehensive when he first sat around but after his first "appearance", they quickly changed their minds and love having a new family member. <br />
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Presley was welcomed with open arms when he brought a little something for my Sunshine gal as the rest of the family knew their turn was coming! I thought of the scripture a day idea after seeing a list of scriptures to read each day, every day in the month of December. I have to admit, I have missed a few days but am trying to be diligent with our newest tradition. <br />
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Now, to answer a few of the questions Clydia asked me to answer....<br />
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<strong>Do you travel or stay home for Christmas?</strong> My husband and I grew up traveling for the holidays. We decided early on in our marriage that we would not do the same with our own children. It was such a rush to hurry up and open gifts then get out the door to travel to a distant home for the rest of the day which left little time to actually enjoy the day. So, we were firm but polite with our parents that we would have Christmas morning at our home once we had our own children. The beauty of this has been that we also invited anyone and everyone in our families to join us. In the past we have had as many as 20 or more in our home for Christmas day! I truly love a houseful!!! At least twice we have traveled right after Christmas to CO to be with my Grams and this year we are still trying to make the decision to stay in NC or travel to OK. The key to a happy family? flexibility! <br />
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<strong>What is your favorite dessert and who makes it? </strong>Cheese cake! and usually my oldest daughter makes it. My youngest daughter and I usually find a new recipe to try and she makes it. We all work together to decorate a gingerbread house. It is an important part of the decor and so much fun to make. Our secret? Buy tons of extra icing and candy at the dollar store, what comes with the kit is never enough. <br />
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<strong>What is your favorite tradition? </strong> We have many and since moving to NC they have almost all changed! In OK we have Christmas plates which come out the first day of December and are used the entire month for every meal. I always feel that if you have it you should use it and not wait for that "special" occasion. My favorite "new" tradition which I have been able to continue here in our beach home is a themed Christmas meal. In the past, I would make the turkey dinner just like we made at Thanksgiving simply because Superman loves turkey. As my kids were getting older I decided I was tired of being in the kitchen all day either cooking or cleaning, I wanted to spend the day with them not with the food. We decided to chose an ethnic meal instead, allowing for much of the work to be done in advance. We have had Mexican, Italian, and our new favorite, Carolina Christmas from Southern Living Christmas magazine. <br />
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Thank you again, Clydia, for allowing me to be your guest today! I hope you will all leave her a sweet note and find time to drop by my blog someday too! <br />
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As you celebrate this year, remember <br />
It's not what is under the tree, but Who hung on the tree"<br />
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Merry Christmas!!!<br />
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Just had to share one last pic. These are my girls and their friend, Tyler, who dropped by Saturday for some homemade lasagna and to help make the gingerbread house. You can barely see on the side of the house next to Tyler they spelled out "Jesus". This blessed me as they came up with it all on their own. Jesus the Reason for the Season! <br />
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What is your favorite Christmas decoration? tradition? food? Please leave me a comment!Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-40048404229040817882011-12-16T11:08:00.000-05:002011-12-16T11:08:53.795-05:00Isn't There Anyone Who Knows What Christmas Is All About?!I just wanted to share my all time favorite Christmas TV show. Just in case you missed the airing of it, like I did, or if you have never seen it, I have added a link for you! Also, be sure to check out itunes for all things Charlie Brown. I downloaded an interactive book that is super fun! <br />
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What is YOUR favorite Christmas show or movie? <br />
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Thanks for taking time to stop by, be sure to leave me a note! <br />
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KimKim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-34564125136810205082011-12-14T00:00:00.002-05:002011-12-14T00:00:11.883-05:00All Things Purple and the SoonersToday is my dear, dear friend's birthday. She was the first lady I met at our OK home church and has become one of my favorite ladies and closest friends. Her husband actually introduced us and has probably regretted that introduction many times. Each time I am in OK we tease him that he is a Kim widower, HA~HA~HA! Many pedicures, dinners & lunches out, and late night shopping trips have bonded us together. Seriously, we have raised our daughters together, moved to different homes together, and have studied the Word of God together. <br />
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Being the sweet person she is, she never complained when her birthday came along in December and our regular group of eight ladies who always celebrated one another's birthdays was often too busy to spend her day with her. I decided about 8 years ago that was going to change so she and I began an annual birthday/Christmas just the two of us girls night out. It was a great way to reconnect during the super busy season and for her to feel a bit pampered, which is how every girl should feel on her birthday. Moving to NC brought a halt to our tradition so I decided this year to use my blog to show how much she means to me!<br />
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Meet Rhonda....<br />
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This is Rhonda (in the purple), myself, and our friend, Kim S. We had been to a Beth Moore conference and stopped off to eat some chocolate before heading off to do some shopping. Bible study, chocolate, and shopping all in one day! <br />
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This photo was taken on our lunch break during the Beth Moore Bible study. We eat Mexican food every chance we get and this day was no exception. Meet some of my other dear friends...Kim S, Melissa, Me, Rhonda, and Shawn. <br />
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Rhonda is passionate about purple! I think this is my favorite photo of the two of us. <br />
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Not the best quality but I had to add this as is shows her other passion...her SOONERS! I know everyone says an OU Sooner and an OSU Cowboy can't get along but we are living proof that just isn't so! <br />
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I hope you have enjoyed meeting Rhonda and a few of my other Okie gals. Leave her a note wishing her a happy birthday in the comments section please!<br />
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Happy Birthday sweet Rhonda!!! I love you and pray every dream you have ever dreamed comes true this year.Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-59792144366263191782011-12-12T21:45:00.000-05:002011-12-12T21:45:12.782-05:00Sometimes It's Worth The Wait!Since my girls were small, I have wanted to take them to see The Nutcracker Ballet. Each year as Christmas was ending, I realized that once again I had failed to get tickets in a timely manner and would have to put that on my "to do next year" list. <br />
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Recently I recieved an email from our homeschool group that we would have the opportunity to attend a school performance in Myrtle Beach at the high school PAC. I signed up right away, not wanting to miss the chance to get our seats. At just $5.00 per ticket I didn't know what level of performance we would see but the girls and I were just excited to see the ballet. <br />
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This morning we were up and out the door early, 8:00 am to be exact...an early morning for this home educating family! We made a stop at Starbucks for some energy and headed to the high school. Our seats were great, 4th row from the front! The dancers were from the Coastal Youth Ballet Theater and danced beautifully. The music and props were top notch. We enjoyed every minute of the Nutcracker. <br />
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Thanks to Natalie for the photos. She forgot to grab her camera on the way out the door this morning, it WAS early!, so she borrowed mine and snapped a few pics for us. <br />
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Is the Nutcracker on your Christmas to do list? What is your favorite Christmas play or movie? <br />
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Thanks for taking time to drop by, please leave me a comment! <br />
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KimKim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-21435965989548939362011-12-12T12:55:00.000-05:002011-12-12T12:55:16.769-05:00Be My Guest!Today I was featured on Three Mango Seeds blog as a guest! www.threemangoseeds.blogspot.com Please head over and give Clydia some love!
Merry Christmas!!!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpU3-6hr0W7gTmtarOR6Z0S3Z16DEF_Z1LJmy-5pr37freVT3QS3Qg5xqgd93q9bFSdVXw2y3rQK57pbAjvXcXZEB7Ik2GKI2ZqdGudsjqX08Chyphenhyphen8-7QLZDhbeVzRJ-q9wKEb3L0zGIGQ/s1600/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpU3-6hr0W7gTmtarOR6Z0S3Z16DEF_Z1LJmy-5pr37freVT3QS3Qg5xqgd93q9bFSdVXw2y3rQK57pbAjvXcXZEB7Ik2GKI2ZqdGudsjqX08Chyphenhyphen8-7QLZDhbeVzRJ-q9wKEb3L0zGIGQ/s400/Christmas+Time+Decor+2011+for+my+blog+103.JPG" /></a></div>Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-39300873746141663752011-12-03T23:46:00.000-05:002011-12-03T23:46:08.229-05:00Meet My Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOcIG27MT-SDm-HPH4k-DBvV012RAucaK0gCRemOBsAdHvaTGo8_vnUsNog-75tTnaich_zJH6B2JwytE2QASkRYJskphfg8tqLl7I7C4XGEZDl9WhyjV70rxEs5W6Gf-0ZzdKdYa0NyE/s1600/_DSC0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOcIG27MT-SDm-HPH4k-DBvV012RAucaK0gCRemOBsAdHvaTGo8_vnUsNog-75tTnaich_zJH6B2JwytE2QASkRYJskphfg8tqLl7I7C4XGEZDl9WhyjV70rxEs5W6Gf-0ZzdKdYa0NyE/s640/_DSC0027.jpg" width="424" /></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/AVvXsEjuUQmVbKChjY1TJdO7ZTB990zvsBIqtCErqb9xoffTbxIIe-ZuHhEiRtQTwGu18IjD5IyP8XfVhMMpDmvDPv2geFsx5JVHWghghDQX7AWFb1bzYIbkJw7-0Y2ZgLQHN_nIrL1jK1mZQIo/s1600/_DSC0155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUQmVbKChjY1TJdO7ZTB990zvsBIqtCErqb9xoffTbxIIe-ZuHhEiRtQTwGu18IjD5IyP8XfVhMMpDmvDPv2geFsx5JVHWghghDQX7AWFb1bzYIbkJw7-0Y2ZgLQHN_nIrL1jK1mZQIo/s640/_DSC0155.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XFaskAHsZbVk79Ur70WYlzkhGPnqhzA0JeMlVBaPr35_voTto2bK5j1xtqB-h9bgfCQ-YVkv1_TIwUIl4jRhpuXhwnHPQFB8qNanAE09WqAoAGL8vNpZzfZYoWEy2Yizu0O7suBlHUI/s1600/_DSC0187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XFaskAHsZbVk79Ur70WYlzkhGPnqhzA0JeMlVBaPr35_voTto2bK5j1xtqB-h9bgfCQ-YVkv1_TIwUIl4jRhpuXhwnHPQFB8qNanAE09WqAoAGL8vNpZzfZYoWEy2Yizu0O7suBlHUI/s640/_DSC0187.jpg" width="442" /></a></div>Just like everyone else, my family has been super busy since just before Thanksgiving. We did take the time to have some professional pictures made by the super talented Kelly Higgins of KMH Photography. I may have mentioned that my oldest daughter is a photographer but she really wanted her mentor and friend to take these photos. We first met Kelly through my hair stylist at a hair salon in Calabash, NC. I quickly hired Kelly to take Natalie's senior pictures. Kelly was still in college but did an outstanding job and as a double blessing, she and Natalie hit if off right away. Soon Kelly asked Natalie to be her assistant and Natalie was thrilled to have a mentor. They have worked together several times and have become great friends. I am still amazed at how God places the right people in our lives at just the right time! <br />
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Kelly gave me her blessing to share these with you. My husband, you have "met" him as Superman, is Andy. Isn't he just super handsome? He is my best friend and I can't wait to see where our adventures take us in the future. My oldest daughter, Natalie, has the cute short hair while Allyson, my baby, has the long hair. As you can tell my daughters are polar opposites and I wouldn't have it any other way. They are my favorite girls in the world. <br />
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Take the time to have your family photographed, even if just by a friend. Chose a fun location and clothes that coordinate. Just enjoy yourselves and let your personalities shine! <br />
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Thanks for taking the time to drop by. Come back soon as I promise to be posting about Christmas soon!Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com3Conway, SC, USA33.8360034 -79.04781430000002733.769502900000006 -79.124252800000022 33.9025039 -78.971375800000033tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-32172509313754507262011-11-22T23:46:00.000-05:002011-11-22T23:46:38.257-05:00Happy Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>My parents have arrived from Oklahoma and we are super excited to be sharing our area beaches with them this week. After giving thanks on Thursday, we will be celebrating my daughter's 20th birthday on Friday, then attending the Intracoastal Waterway Christmas Flotilla on Saturday! We have a busy weekend ahead of us! <br />
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I will be taking a bit of a break and be back soon ready to share some new pics and stories of these events and more. <br />
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Enjoy Thanksgiving with your family and friends! See you soon!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8iWcMnnj2dvr9SRJoDeiWZVSXfo05LKY8UbAid-wcehSdWnvzzcUJe9tX1-voAV4RT5Peaa02yCY_tMdM9iw-YOUeIUCDroRe0FSLzj6l5_vxLyz1WwGb6avlyyijMqd0JUdmmJ8P9U/s1600/ipod+pics+11202011+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8iWcMnnj2dvr9SRJoDeiWZVSXfo05LKY8UbAid-wcehSdWnvzzcUJe9tX1-voAV4RT5Peaa02yCY_tMdM9iw-YOUeIUCDroRe0FSLzj6l5_vxLyz1WwGb6avlyyijMqd0JUdmmJ8P9U/s640/ipod+pics+11202011+025.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>Here is my birthday girl at Sam's Club last weekend right after she purchased her new toy! Isn't she precious? Hard to believe it has been 20 years since she stole our hearts! Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-4673320578109169062011-11-07T23:14:00.001-05:002011-11-07T23:18:54.899-05:00I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date!I must apologize for being so late with passing The Versatile Blogger on in a timely manner. Now, being a new blogger I had to learn the rules of blogging and have been thankful to a few ladies who have been so helpful to teach me! Rule number 1, thank and link back to the one who gave me the award. Many thanks to Clydia at <a href="http://www.threemangoseeds.blogspot.com/">Three Mango Seeds</a> for this opportunity to share the love. She is super creative and makes some amazing signs as well as revamps furniture in some incredible ways. Please drop by and you might just find something you need for your home.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdCJe6CvzHNAyNEVkffUXWJIx3XPXv3b_aR9mnTSNGjv9dhVUM7m1tuMv0thHDbnZKjB83d0HJc5gQfMPC-hpRMN3EzyFhWkdME9Sl4eg5hlcplmTmbNFsE2eaotDZ7iMS4T49EyQXtgY/s1600/VersatileBloggerAward+button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdCJe6CvzHNAyNEVkffUXWJIx3XPXv3b_aR9mnTSNGjv9dhVUM7m1tuMv0thHDbnZKjB83d0HJc5gQfMPC-hpRMN3EzyFhWkdME9Sl4eg5hlcplmTmbNFsE2eaotDZ7iMS4T49EyQXtgY/s1600/VersatileBloggerAward+button.png" /></a></div><br />
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Rule number 2? I am to share 7 things about me that you might not know....<br />
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1) I met Superman when we were both 15 and in the high school marching band. He was the drum major and I was a little testy with him. I thought having my boyfriend as the drum major should give me room to be a little sassy...well, that little sassy got me kicked right out of band one day! It was my first lesson in submission to my man. Thankfully, I learned that lesson quickly and we have been married for 23 adventure filled years.<br />
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2) I have been a home educating momma for 12 years. It is an honor and a joy to be with my children on a daily basis, watching them learn and grow into young adults. <br />
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3) I have lived in more than 15 houses since I was born! <br />
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4) I am an Independent Kitchen Consultant for The Pampered Chef. I tied on my apron 13 years ago and so enjoy helping others to "discover the chef in you!" <br />
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5) I enjoy studying the Word of God with other women. Beth Moore and John Eldridge are my favorite Bible studies to dig into!<br />
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6) I find organizing to be great fun! My friends tease me when I want to take yet another seminar or read another book on the subject.<br />
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7) I traveled, ALONE, to Istanbul, Turkey! I went to see a dear friend and we had an amazing two weeks touring her new home city and other parts of Turkey. <br />
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I truly live each day in the moment, trying to seek God for His perfect will in my life.<br />
NOW, for the fun part! I chose 4 blogs I want to award the Versatile Blogger to, based on different reasons.<br />
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Jesse at <a href="http://www.goodgirlgoneglad.com/">Good Girl Gone Glad</a>. She was the very first blogger I met and followed. She is a super chic wife, momma, and artist. Her blog is full of decorating, home educating ideas, and glimpses into the life of her adorable family.<br />
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Sheryl at<a href="http://www.thealteredpassport.blogspot.com/"> The Altered Passport</a> A gifted paper artist, calligrapher, and world traveler, her blog is the perfect place to travel through her eyes without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. She also shares her love of all paper arts and photography.<br />
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Joy at <a href="http://www.myturkishjoys.blogspot.com/">My Turkish Joys</a> A professional chef who has followed her husband to Turkey as an expat. Her blog is for all foodies who want to learn about world cuisine. When she travels, her blog posts almost always focus on foods in the area. <br />
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The Girls of <a href="http://www.project64colors.blogspot.com/">Project 64: Out of the Box</a> here you will find 6 multi talented photographers who have a wide range of abilities. Each week they "color" a photo based on the 64 crayons found in a box of Crayolas. Others are invited to link up each week with their own version of the color. The ladies who post to this blog live all over the US and in one foreign country so you can be sure it is truly versatile!<br />
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Be sure to visit these blogs soon and become their newest followers!<br />
Remember, to leave me a message! I just love to read them!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWIJUBiX4mOBtqkfZ57mNBMeNcaTwpiOMuaiZA7Gw3XlTsJ-WcJHApXai3uRUQlf9YtLUOSrYZVXclNvRgrONtn5XDeQhJsbAM84_MFlN0WjtkZTfYJAEAV-mu9EX__gxTjnJLri_6h4/s1600/10122011+iphone+pics+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWIJUBiX4mOBtqkfZ57mNBMeNcaTwpiOMuaiZA7Gw3XlTsJ-WcJHApXai3uRUQlf9YtLUOSrYZVXclNvRgrONtn5XDeQhJsbAM84_MFlN0WjtkZTfYJAEAV-mu9EX__gxTjnJLri_6h4/s640/10122011+iphone+pics+026.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just thought I'd share a bit of the beauty of Colorado today. My mother took this photo on a recent trip to my home state. The Aspens are gorgeous this time of year! While she was in Vail she just happened to notice this particular tree had my name carved into it. Amazing how God will give you something exciting when you least expect it! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-76163220646338107612011-11-02T23:10:00.000-04:002011-11-02T23:10:03.647-04:00Too Much To Do, Too Little Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Just wanted to make a little post to say a big Thank You! to my fellow blogger, Clydia, of Three Mango Seeds, <a href="http://www.threemangoseeds.blogspot.com/">www.threemangoseeds.blogspot.com</a> for the Versatile Blogger award she so kindly gave me and a few others on Tuesday. I know this award comes with some responsibilities and I can't wait to fulfill them! This week has been extra full for this blogger and since I am not blog literate I am simply not able to get the work finished. I will get the links up and running as soon as possible! <br />
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Please drop by Clydia's blog and give her some love while waiting for me to get busy!<br />
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Have a Terrific Thursday!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTiy6V-sAiCp0uQKnouhTg4lM92SBWfjDxNDmeJBYopwhVBA45MXs1NwCCl_CM8NVyj3VXSWIKnLwwNDRgdoPsMumyGZK0r8P6Dji9cMkeaSgvkWa8NtcVInBUx8TyeaSmNbSGp9bh40/s1600/Beach+Day+with+Angela+102210+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTiy6V-sAiCp0uQKnouhTg4lM92SBWfjDxNDmeJBYopwhVBA45MXs1NwCCl_CM8NVyj3VXSWIKnLwwNDRgdoPsMumyGZK0r8P6Dji9cMkeaSgvkWa8NtcVInBUx8TyeaSmNbSGp9bh40/s640/Beach+Day+with+Angela+102210+036.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Just thought I would share one of my favorite beach photos. I took this on a day that my cousin and I spent exploring Sunset Beach, NC. We literally rode our bikes all over the island, ending up at the end of the sand. We were so hoping to find a patch of sand to ride our (rented) bikes across to Ocean Isle Beach, NC. When we couldn't find one, we just enjoyed the view from Sunset Beach.</span></strong> <br />
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</tbody></table>Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6046545909596356253.post-76656574716268024832011-10-31T15:04:00.000-04:002011-10-31T15:04:28.272-04:00Join the Party!<span style="color: orange;">Happy Monday! At least, I hope you are having a happy day. I know mine has been very happy since I was featured over at Three Mango Seeds </span><a href="http://www.threemangoseeds.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: orange;">www.threemangoseeds.blogspot.com</span></a><span style="color: orange;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: orange;">Link up and join in the fun!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWbMcBoUeC5S_a4oUtJ3tcNzs60bniQcDDTz6mmuq1UiqEmDSGBbiZzQcSfo3_zwRTN2k6A-kRyNosb7-qpT1JMYe1HZLjZVYXqIgyR0E0dzC8FVi7To_WlMnGmzt8Mjsyh2isdOQjgFo/s640/Oct+30+2010+Happy+Fall+Yall+159.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Happy Fall, Y'ALL!!!</strong> </td></tr>
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Have you had an exciting Monday or a run-of-the-mill day? Please remember to leave a comment so I'll know you dropped by!Kim, Living to Seas the Momenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10720588242945699460noreply@blogger.com5