tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58320265667626703742024-03-13T20:28:38.001-07:00Jar of LaughsKatiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-71559451105211903932014-08-24T20:30:00.002-07:002014-08-24T20:43:21.495-07:00Opposites<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #999999;">For the past few week the hubby and I have been involved in the house buying process, which has kept us busy to say the least. We are waiting to see what the appraiser says and then we will being going to closing! Because of this and a few other things going on, I feel a little behind as far as what I had planned to do this week. Despite these distractions, S made AMAZING progress this week! She has picked up how to use "out," "up," and almost "in." To be honest, all of these words mostly sound like grunts with a consonant stuck on there some where. But, in the broader sense, she is learning to use words to express what she wants instead of screams and cries. I still have to prompt her to use the words and that's ok because we are taking baby steps here (pun indented).</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">** I found that even though I was focusing on a specific concept that day, other concepts could be reinforced throughout each day. As a matter of fact, the best way to teach these concepts is to continually use them on a daily basis.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Monday</span></strong>: Use a large box for in/out, up/down, light/dark, open/close, over/under. Sort toys into two piles of opposites (hard/soft, big/small, noisy/ quiet).</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">We were lucky to have a very large box leftover from our party last week. We had lots of fun with Uncle Z getting in and out, and being pushed around the living room.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tuesday</span>: light switch on/off</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">S learned a month or so ago about the power (and fun) of a light switch. Every time we walk by one she insists on turning it on and off a few times. It has been kinda handy when I'm carrying her and neither of my hands are free to turn off a light. Since we had the light switch thing down, I focused on other things that could be "on or off." We played with the lid to her snack up by putting it on and off, and we put a beaded necklace on and off. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Wednesday</span></strong>: Hello/ Goodbye with front door. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">It's such a bitter sweet learning experience to practice hello and goodbye. I chose to use the door to her little play house instead of the front door to the house. She got pretty good at waving goodbye (and blowing kisses) but not so much at hello. To reinforce the idea of hello means "I'm here!" and goodbye means "I'm gone" I played peek-a-boo but used hello and goodbye instead of "where is S" and "peek-a-boo."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Thursday</strong></span>: Up/Down, High/Low</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">By far, my favorite thing S has learned with week was "up." No more screaming and pulling at my leg, mostly. And it was a lot of fun to learn this concept. At first, when she said up I would throw her in the air, then each time she wanted me to pick her up I would ask her if she wanted up. She doesn't remember to use the word all the time but she is willing to say it when prompted. This is progress, people!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Friday</strong></span>: Stop/Go, Over/Under</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">These two concepts are a little advanced for S (seeing how she just had her first birthday last week), but it was fun to practice anyway. My SIL has an awesome little red wagon that S loves to get in every time we are out back. So we played "stop and go." I would say GO and proceed to move the wagon, then I would yell STOP and stop the wagon abruptly (but gently enough to not to make her fly out of the vehicle) to demonstrate stopping. We also played stop and go during our morning walks and while pushing the walker.</span> <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ahU0US5wPR8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;">I hadn't really considered doing Over/Under until I talked to my mom earlier in the week. She has been a teacher in the public school district for about sixteen years, working with students ranging from kindergarten to high school. She said that one of the hardest learning concepts kindergarten teachers have is teaching Over/Under. Which, if you think of it, is kind of hard to teach without getting physically moving. I didn't do too much with this concept, but we did go to the play area at the mall and crawled under a few things. I don't think it would be too hard to set up a little tunnel with pillows or cardboard, or even to use a table to practice going over and under things. This is not a fully thought-out concept (I guess most of my ideas aren't either), but I felt that it was worth mentioning. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;">More concepts to work on:</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">In/Out</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Up/Down</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">On/Off</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Hello/Goodbye</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Hot/Cold</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Wet/Dry</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Open/Close</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Stop/Go</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">High/Low</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Happy/Sad</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Dirty/Clean</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Sweet/Sour</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Day/Night</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Loud/Quiet</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">Songs: Open/Shut them, If You Chance to Meet a Frown</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">Books: Opposites by Sandra Boynton </span><a href="http://www.everythingpreschool.com/themes/opposites/books.php"><span style="color: #999999;">http://www.everythingpreschool.com/themes/opposites/books.php</span></a><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">Ideas: </span><a href="http://www.guruparents.com/teaching-opposites.html"><span style="color: #999999;">http://www.guruparents.com/teaching-opposites.html</span></a><span style="color: #999999;">#</span><br />
<a href="http://mylittlesonbeam.blogspot.com/2013/10/game-noisy-or-quiet.html?m=1"><span style="color: #999999;">http://mylittlesonbeam.blogspot.com/2013/10/game-noisy-or-quiet.html?m=1</span></a><br />
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<span style="color: #999999;">I am realizing that my original idea to do a new activity each day with a new focus is a little too much at this stage in Summer's life. Next week we are going to try a few different approaches. Stay tuned!</span><br />
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Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-58460785916351264522014-08-22T19:04:00.001-07:002014-08-22T19:04:27.479-07:00Summer's First Birthday Party!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;">Let it be known that <span style="font-size: x-large;">Summer Ann Colton</span> has survived her first year of life, despite her parents' <span style="font-family: inherit;">lack of experience</span> and training. We shall celebrate with CAKE!!</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hbW8Dh9T4mI/U_eLbtA0T-I/AAAAAAAAAvw/ZmSJiyOuhJU/s1600/IMG_8271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hbW8Dh9T4mI/U_eLbtA0T-I/AAAAAAAAAvw/ZmSJiyOuhJU/s1600/IMG_8271.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ek9FGfXuG2o/U_eLYnWdpOI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/g87cbzbEynI/s1600/20140809_191314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ek9FGfXuG2o/U_eLYnWdpOI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/g87cbzbEynI/s1600/20140809_191314.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> </div>
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To see the birthday girl's cake-eating experience click here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFBiOB8yiRg&feature=youtu.be">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFBiOB8yiRg&feature=youtu.be</a> </div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">And presents!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-large;">And who could forget that delicious spaghetti dinner . . .</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ypN8lICSFg/U_eLdAa56yI/AAAAAAAAAv8/HU5kLtDTjI8/s1600/IMG_8276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ypN8lICSFg/U_eLdAa56yI/AAAAAAAAAv8/HU5kLtDTjI8/s1600/IMG_8276.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mzZCDaQc4cc/U_eLeKAdn7I/AAAAAAAAAwE/E9yjfONDZUI/s1600/IMG_8281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mzZCDaQc4cc/U_eLeKAdn7I/AAAAAAAAAwE/E9yjfONDZUI/s1600/IMG_8281.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-large;">It was a great day, and fun was had by all! Thank you to our family who made it a very special day. </span> </div>
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Tips for toddler birthdays:<br />
1. Keep guest list to intimately known friends. <br />
2. I would suggest doing the party in this order: Sing & Blow out candles, give guests cake and ice cream and have birthday person open gifts while guests are eating, then give birthday girl or boy cake. As the guests finish eating, give them gift bags. That way everyone is always busy with food or toys. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(This is not a tested theory).</span><br />
3.If you want to make colored whipping cream frosting, mix the color in the cream before starting to whip it. Don't over whip cream into butter! Here is the recipe I used <a href="http://frostingandasmile.com/homemade-whipped-cream/">http://frostingandasmile.com/homemade-whipped-cream/</a> I also suggest this recipe if you are going to be leaving your cake/cupcakes out for a while <a href="http://www.trueaimeducation.com/the-perfect-whipped-cream-frosting/">http://www.trueaimeducation.com/the-perfect-whipped-cream-frosting/</a><br />
4. Have snacks for kids as they arrive to they won't be overwhelmingly hungry for cake and ice cream before it's time.<br />
5. Keep gifts out of reach of kids.<br />
(Thank you Julie for a lot of these tips!)</div>
Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-12108173975006499382014-08-17T20:12:00.000-07:002014-08-17T20:12:47.722-07:00Birthday Girl<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Little girl S is turning one! I can't even believe that she has been in our lives for a whole year. She went from this adorable little chunk<br />
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To this beautiful little girl</div>
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She is such a blessing from our Heavenly Father! In honor of her birthday week, we learned about birthdays. Here is our schedule for the Week:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Monday- </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Balloons</span>, balloon pit with pool, tossing balloon, rolling, kicking, making noises with balloons, fill them with different things= rice, air, water, jello, cotton balls, etc, blow bubbles</span></div>
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**WARNING: beware of latex allergies. My husband gets red itchy painful skin when he blows up balloons so I chose not to use latex balloons but FOIL balloons instead. Due to fussiness we didn't get to most of them. She did have fun crinkling the semi flat balloon and punching them around. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tuesday-<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> <span style="font-size: small;">Birthday Apparel and Games</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: small;">, birthday crown, boa, blow out candles, noise makers, dance party</span> </span></span></span></div>
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I pulled out some of S's favorite stuffed toys to use as "birthday guests." We took turns putting on party hats and necklaces. Mostly I put the stuff on and she took them off. Then she put the necklaces on me. It was very cute watching her put the necklaces on and off. Cousin J played dress up with us too.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wednesday- <span style="font-family: Courier New; font-size: small;">Presents</span><span style="font-size: small;">, different wrapping paper, play with tape on box and floor, play with tissue paper, stuff boxes with toys, top with bows</span></span></div>
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I think I was more excited about this than she was. I took some of her favorite toys and wrapped them in different boxes and bags. We talked about the size of the bags and boxes. She especially loved the noise of the tissue paper and opening and closing the lid to the box.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thursday-</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Cakes</span>, bake cake or cupcakes, decorating with frosting, building a cake</span></div>
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We didn't end up doing this, unfortunately =( Life got too busy. But I did find an awesome recipe for delicious whipped cream frosting that didn't have too much sugar in it. Here is the link: <a href="http://www.trueaimeducation.com/the-perfect-whipped-cream-frosting/">http://www.trueaimeducation.com/the-perfect-whipped-cream-frosting/</a></div>
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This is another good one</div>
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<a href="http://frostingandasmile.com/homemade-whipped-cream/">http://frostingandasmile.com/homemade-whipped-cream/</a></div>
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** Just make sure you don't over whip your cream**</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Friday-<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Birthday Day</span>! Cake Smash, special dinner, swimming</span></div>
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We ended up doing her birthday party a week early because we had cousins in town and we wanted to celebrate with them. On her actual birthday Dad came home early and we had mashed potatoes, meat balls, and corn (her favorite foods), and cupcakes. Thanks to Skype, Gramma and Grampa Graham, Auntie Hil and Uncle Justin got to sing happy birthday to her too. It was a fun first birthday. </div>
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Books: Birthday Monsters by Sandra Boynton, Bear's Birthday by Stella Blackstone, The Birthday Box by Leslie Patricelli, A Birthday for Cow! by Jan Thomas, Birthday Rhymes Special Times by Bobbye S Goldstein</div>
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Birthday Songs: All of my favorite birthday songs came from the primary song book, <a href="https://www.lds.org/music/library/childrens-songbook?lang=eng">https://www.lds.org/music/library/childrens-songbook?lang=eng</a> </div>
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We also watched a lot Elmo's World Birthday episode on youtube.com </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I hope you enjoyed reading and got some good ideas. See you next week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large;">-Katie</span></div>
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Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-13596518666400537642014-08-05T12:05:00.003-07:002014-08-05T12:05:39.214-07:00OverHaul<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">Alright, people we are overhauling this blog! It's time to update and try a few new thing. I am going to try to focus more on our raising our daughter and hobbies. My goal is to post once or twice a week. Once to review our learning week with Summer and another time to document our family memories. Here we go!</span></div>
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Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-72773182717065702632012-01-19T20:41:00.000-08:002012-01-19T20:41:10.833-08:00Jimmer's Kings vs Rockets<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So our computer has been on the fritz and is on its way out the door. Hopefully I will be posting from a new computer soon. I have a few posts ready to go, but I'm gonna parsel them out. Since we got back from vacation we have been taking mini-vacations. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We got lucky enough to snag a few tickets to the Houston Rockets vs Sacramento Kings, which just so happens to be the team Jimmer was drafted to! We got the tickets through the BYU Alumni, who also upgraded our tickets. We sat about 30 rows from the court; it was awesome!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0YFABy9GMAA/TxXVhBwTOII/AAAAAAAAAqQ/_jIRFJx8Hf0/s320/IMG_5709.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is one of 4 points Jimmer made throughout the game. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xs7pGGxTmek/TxXU_DwvGqI/AAAAAAAAAqA/6VCSULLnz3s/s1600/IMG_5707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xs7pGGxTmek/TxXU_DwvGqI/AAAAAAAAAqA/6VCSULLnz3s/s320/IMG_5707.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bruce took this great picture of Jimmer on defense.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RpRiDfscDrg/TxXUs2rt9tI/AAAAAAAAAp4/tqQ-fxs9lBU/s1600/IMG_5706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RpRiDfscDrg/TxXUs2rt9tI/AAAAAAAAAp4/tqQ-fxs9lBU/s320/IMG_5706.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qltxtPDD_3c/TxXUcEFQTQI/AAAAAAAAApw/kEeZCB-Bftc/s1600/IMG_5705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qltxtPDD_3c/TxXUcEFQTQI/AAAAAAAAApw/kEeZCB-Bftc/s320/IMG_5705.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Team huddle! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cFvvJrSMRoY/TxXY4Bc8rPI/AAAAAAAAAqY/s9gC_lAr0Po/s1600/IMG_5718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cFvvJrSMRoY/TxXY4Bc8rPI/AAAAAAAAAqY/s9gC_lAr0Po/s320/IMG_5718.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Us and the court. I realized a little too late that I needed the flash to be on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysVJOwXekws/TxXa5X1ziJI/AAAAAAAAAqw/0M5MowlB9Qo/s1600/IMG_5731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysVJOwXekws/TxXa5X1ziJI/AAAAAAAAAqw/0M5MowlB9Qo/s320/IMG_5731.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And this is what Bruce would have looked like if he pursued a career in professional hoops. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We really had so much fun going to a real live professional basketball game. Even though Jimmer didn't preform at the level we are used to seeing, it was super fun to scream for him whenever he got the ball. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><span id="goog_1864039823"><span id="goog_2008048351"></span><span id="goog_2008048352"></span></span><span id="goog_1864039824"></span></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-32028912185064691712012-01-12T23:31:00.000-08:002012-01-19T20:24:45.251-08:00Looks Like We're Gonna Need an Ark Down Here<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wow, what a Monday! We had a little drizzle throughout the night, and that combined with the sprinkling the next morning made for an exciting, wet, and adventurous day. Here are just a few pictures of the water around our apartment. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aWqT8dser14/Tw_Ah11IxcI/AAAAAAAAAoI/uSZbVSyaoPo/s320/IMG_5684.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you can see in the lower right hand corner of the picture there is a sign that is supposed to say "Camping Is Prohibited" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tj_SS4ASW3A/Tw_AOVyqgmI/AAAAAAAAAoA/DigbzGeGZpo/s1600/IMG_5683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tj_SS4ASW3A/Tw_AOVyqgmI/AAAAAAAAAoA/DigbzGeGZpo/s320/IMG_5683.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the bayou next to our apartments. It is about a quarter of a mile from where were live, and when the water levels got to high for the bayou the water backed up and created a water way of the streets around our apartment. These photos were taken a few hours after the rain had stopped and the city was started to drain the bayou. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfZKwEHb70k/Tw_BFigpAHI/AAAAAAAAAoY/W6ynxEAju4o/s1600/IMG_5686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfZKwEHb70k/Tw_BFigpAHI/AAAAAAAAAoY/W6ynxEAju4o/s320/IMG_5686.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These two photos (above and below) are the route I take while running in the morning. Guess I won't be on that trail any time soon . . . </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-itvHypV4TPs/Tw_NsdOG2AI/AAAAAAAAAog/0mPYnN1AXXY/s1600/IMG_5688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-itvHypV4TPs/Tw_NsdOG2AI/AAAAAAAAAog/0mPYnN1AXXY/s320/IMG_5688.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As scary as this may look, it was kinda fun. My friend Stephanie and I had a little adventure. Because Bruce had to go off-campus in the middle of the day for vision screenings he took the car, which left me stranded at home (which I usually don't mind). However, this particular morning Stephanie and I decided to hang out with our friend Nikki who just had a baby. Stephanie was kind enough to pick me up (not knowing that she would be driving up a river). I waited for about an hour before she called and said that there was a puddle in the road that she was trying to get around and she would call when she got here. After about two hours of driving around trying to find a road that wasn't flooded that would get to our apartment, we agreed that it would be best if I walked to her. I pulled on my red rain boots, zipped up my jacket, and hid my cell phone inside my jacket. I opened the front door to embark on my adventure. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Initially, I wasn't impressed with the current drizzle from the clouds. It wasn't until I got to the street that I saw the damage that "drizzle" had done. The first step into the street felt as if I was wading though a stream. I tried to take slow and calculated steps so water wouldn't splash up into my boots. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw a guy run through the river on our street with nothing but tennis shoes and jeans on. When I made it to the other side of the street I noticed about 15 cars parked in the grocery store's raised parking lot just sitting there waiting out the flooded streets. But I trudged on through the rain. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the next intersection the water had risen past the side walk and was starting to flood the shopping center's parking lot. Looking around I saw only trucks and raised SUVs braving the drive through the river-street (little did they know that it only got deeper from there.) I chose to cross the road about 20 feet from the intersection, where the water wasn't as deep. On the first step into the road-river I sank into water up to my calves, with about 3 inches to spare before my highwater boots went under. But I made it to the other side without getting water in my boots. Pretty talented, I know! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just before crossing the bridge over the bayou I walked by two city buses that had stopped in the middle of the road and refused to continue their route through the water. The passengers were being kicked off and into the rain. Crossing the bridge over the bayou, I peeked over the edge to see that the water had risen to the top arch of the bridge. Floating leaves and trash were piling up against the bridge. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The second intersection crossing was slightly easier, except when my boot got stuck and I almost fell. I had finally made it to Stephanie, and just had to cross the street . . . There were 4 cars stopped in the middle of the road, another car driving on the wrong side of the road, and several more trucks haphazardly driving through the river-street intersection. I cautiously crossed the river-street trying to not get splashed by the passing trucks. My reward was a warm car and good friends to hang out with!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here are some more crazy photos of the Houston highways, taken the same day by local journalists. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lyk4W6Ne0cs/Tw_ZykQvv8I/AAAAAAAAAoo/YMgSiFDJtyA/s1600/flood1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lyk4W6Ne0cs/Tw_ZykQvv8I/AAAAAAAAAoo/YMgSiFDJtyA/s320/flood1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> This is the highway we take to get to our favorite Greek restaurant. Not the over pass. The flooded road the guy is canoeing down. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lcw9h19K18k/Tw_ZzE2oDhI/AAAAAAAAAow/hx014I-AFW4/s1600/flood+%252712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lcw9h19K18k/Tw_ZzE2oDhI/AAAAAAAAAow/hx014I-AFW4/s1600/flood+%252712.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Downtown Houston; looks like traffic is gonna be a little backed up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8Hho-ru-2I/Tw_Zz3ExwAI/AAAAAAAAAo4/eRZSgYiLArk/s1600/flooding2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8Hho-ru-2I/Tw_Zz3ExwAI/AAAAAAAAAo4/eRZSgYiLArk/s320/flooding2.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the worst! I would've had to abandon my car and watch it flood! (There are sunken cars under there)</div><br />
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</div><span id="goog_2036635592"><span id="goog_2031724713"></span><span id="goog_2031724714"></span></span><span id="goog_2036635593"></span></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-14440526125175247012011-12-09T16:35:00.000-08:002011-12-09T16:35:59.719-08:00Nativity Costumes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So here is the basic outline of how I made just about all the Nativity costumes. After these instructions, each costume only needs minor unique adjustments:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The angel costume has sleeves and a fitted bust. For one of the wise men I left off the sleeves. For Mary I made the sleeves fitted, and for Joseph I changed the neck into a V neck. I made the costumes ridiculously big so they would fit EVERYBODY!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is how to make these costumes. First, and this part is always confusing, lay the fabric out flat then fold so the short ends are together. (the fabric I bought was 48" wide) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dHCZgrQFcM8/TuAhY1Xu-TI/AAAAAAAAAlo/vn52-4MznDE/s320/IMG_5492.JPG" width="320" /></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Then fold the long ends together. You want somewhere between 2-3 yards of fabric. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7SSjjomBxM/TuAhpT-EDZI/AAAAAAAAAlw/ztVuQc_zaLo/s1600/IMG_5493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7SSjjomBxM/TuAhpT-EDZI/AAAAAAAAAlw/ztVuQc_zaLo/s320/IMG_5493.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, you want to find the corner of the fabric with both folds. This is were you will cut the neck hole. I would start by making the cut hole about 5 inches wide. You can always make it bigger, but it's much harder to make it smaller. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1KWbdTePe64/TuAia8emKyI/AAAAAAAAAmI/o6TWqwCrujM/s320/IMG_5496.JPG" width="240" /></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This is the fun part. Now you are gonna create the shape of the garment. For the angel, I made sleeves with openings and the silhouette a triangle (make sure you don't make the bust too tight). For Mary I made the sleeves straight and the silhouette more rectangular. For Joseph and one of the wise men, I didn't add sleeves. The possibilities are endless.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_QSBJdUJXo/TuAiraeqUZI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/E54Jehkbjrc/s1600/IMG_5497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_QSBJdUJXo/TuAiraeqUZI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/E54Jehkbjrc/s320/IMG_5497.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Here is the final silhouette, still folded, with the neck hole on the upper right of the picture. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R_HUmMRDoTg/TuAi8Dp83LI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yCyAXnImSXM/s1600/IMG_5498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R_HUmMRDoTg/TuAi8Dp83LI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yCyAXnImSXM/s320/IMG_5498.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">When you unfold the first fold it should look something like this. The top of the sleeves should still be uncut. So, you just need to sew up the sides and the bottom of the sleeves, and hem the neck, sleeve ends, and the bottom of the dress. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WEBwq-ypzlI/TuAjKpwi2LI/AAAAAAAAAmg/yCXkDsx_EZA/s1600/IMG_5499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WEBwq-ypzlI/TuAjKpwi2LI/AAAAAAAAAmg/yCXkDsx_EZA/s320/IMG_5499.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is the final product. I give you . . . The Angel!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lIocCT6KCmY/TuAjdBvJvzI/AAAAAAAAAmo/SwyvObgTHAs/s1600/IMG_5500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lIocCT6KCmY/TuAjdBvJvzI/AAAAAAAAAmo/SwyvObgTHAs/s320/IMG_5500.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I will try to get some pictures of the other costumes up as soon as possible. If you have any questions about making these costumes, let me know. </div><br />
</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-33070501468082233412011-12-03T13:09:00.000-08:002011-12-03T17:06:42.004-08:00Christmas is in the Air!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">It's the merriest time of year! Now that Thanksgiving has passed we can hang the lights, turn up the Christmas music, and wrap the presents. I am a firm believer that Christmas with all of its trimming should come only after Thanksgiving. Isn't that the order they are in? Anyways, I had a request from a friend to post a tutorial on easy, homemade Nativity costumes. Our ward is putting on a play called "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." It's based on a book and has been made into a movie. It's a really cute play and the kids in our ward are doing a great job. I jumped at the chance to make the costumes for the Nativity scene. It was much easier than I anticipated. I am gonna do a few posts on this. So I will start with a list of supplies and how to make halos.<br />
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The costumes are going to use a lot of material. I bought a couple of flat bedsheets at Walmart for $5 to make the shepherds and Joseph. For Mary, the angel, and the wise-men I got satin-poly material from Hobby Lobby. I used the 40% coupon that can be found online. I'm sure I'm leaving out a lot but I will add as we go.<br />
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Okay, for the Angel and the little choir of angels' halos I used 18mm wire (Hobby Lobby), gold garland (Dollar Tree), and a headband (Dollar Tree). <br />
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First, cut the garland into the halo circumference you want; then measure the wire to the same length. Twist garland around wire. Shape into a circle. <br />
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Second, (this part is optional) paint headbands white. Spray paint works best. I got the cheap kind from Walmart for $1.<br />
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Third, cut two wires 3" long each to hold up the halo.<br />
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Fourth, wrap one end of the 3"-wire to the halo. Try to secure it tightly with hot glue to keep in place.<br />
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Fifth, wrap the other end of the 3"-wire around the headband and use pliers to tighten the wire around the headband. <br />
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All Done!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CYhHrzsTfsw/TtqPlAW_oDI/AAAAAAAAAk4/K-OlFb0c1qM/s1600/IMG_5479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CYhHrzsTfsw/TtqPlAW_oDI/AAAAAAAAAk4/K-OlFb0c1qM/s320/IMG_5479.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JIdrTJni72U/TtqP4hAmDDI/AAAAAAAAAlA/j3kU879HPZQ/s1600/IMG_5480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JIdrTJni72U/TtqP4hAmDDI/AAAAAAAAAlA/j3kU879HPZQ/s320/IMG_5480.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-44857174074983314932011-11-24T10:06:00.000-08:002011-11-24T10:06:20.117-08:00Happy Turkey Day!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I hope you all enjoy your yummy Thanksgiving dinners surrounded by loved ones. I thought I'd give you a few ideas for what to do with your dinner leftovers. Click the links for the full recipe.<br />
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<a href="http://www.chow.com/recipes/29029-thanksgiving-turkey-cake">http://www.chow.com/recipes/29029-thanksgiving-turkey-cake</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aCGGJvwvANw/Ts6ASLqZRAI/AAAAAAAAAkg/ivHL4GHrUdE/s1600/phpThumb_generated_thumbnailjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aCGGJvwvANw/Ts6ASLqZRAI/AAAAAAAAAkg/ivHL4GHrUdE/s320/phpThumb_generated_thumbnailjpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/turkey_white_chili/">http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/turkey_white_chili/</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxYeF039B-0/Ts58QaX32PI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/kb9LK-b193I/s1600/turkey-white-chili-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxYeF039B-0/Ts58QaX32PI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/kb9LK-b193I/s320/turkey-white-chili-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com/">http://www.browneyedbaker.com/</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IxWdn65EK0k/Ts570N9NYqI/AAAAAAAAAkI/TA_d5tZlFOE/s1600/turkey-leftovers-casserole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="257" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IxWdn65EK0k/Ts570N9NYqI/AAAAAAAAAkI/TA_d5tZlFOE/s320/turkey-leftovers-casserole.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left"><a href="http://www.curbly.com/">http://www.curbly.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dJ0rGwV1ITw/Ts5-NP0QpNI/AAAAAAAAAkY/hVTjGXRGwRg/s1600/Grilled_Turkey_and_Brie_Sandwich_with_Cranberry_Chutney_1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dJ0rGwV1ITw/Ts5-NP0QpNI/AAAAAAAAAkY/hVTjGXRGwRg/s320/Grilled_Turkey_and_Brie_Sandwich_with_Cranberry_Chutney_1_500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.realsimple.com/">http://www.realsimple.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cvF0YIbt_S0/Ts6BQIPtJ-I/AAAAAAAAAko/vBWE-mTzqxw/s1600/turkey-enchiladas_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cvF0YIbt_S0/Ts6BQIPtJ-I/AAAAAAAAAko/vBWE-mTzqxw/s320/turkey-enchiladas_300.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/">http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eOXPc3JbjKw/Ts6Fjq5eYkI/AAAAAAAAAkw/Mxi4P7BVvTY/s1600/turkey_soupVert_o1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eOXPc3JbjKw/Ts6Fjq5eYkI/AAAAAAAAAkw/Mxi4P7BVvTY/s320/turkey_soupVert_o1.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Hope You Enjoy!</div></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-31900837319319121022011-11-23T09:11:00.000-08:002011-11-23T09:11:10.249-08:00Pies and Yummy Deserts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: left;"> So our lap top broke last week and we just got it back so I apologies for not post more Thanksgiving recipes. But this post should be pretty good! I made a list of pie recipes I love. Here they are:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/pumpkin-cream-cheese-pie/bcbb0b89-f19b-49d1-9021-73cb7e40e0a2">bettycrocker.com/recipes/pumpkin-cream-cheese-pie</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X-Thvzy_R7U/Ts0oRzWSvdI/AAAAAAAAAjo/0XadKDbhk0s/s1600/pumpkin+cream+cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X-Thvzy_R7U/Ts0oRzWSvdI/AAAAAAAAAjo/0XadKDbhk0s/s320/pumpkin+cream+cheese.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2009/11/perfect-apple-crisp.html">apple crisp</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yQrmIb-jkXA/Ts0oMAbDApI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/sqHe_K8bz8I/s1600/apple+crisp.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yQrmIb-jkXA/Ts0oMAbDApI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/sqHe_K8bz8I/s320/apple+crisp.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2009/11/perfect-apple-crisp.html">banana cream pie</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uzicVkfF8Ck/Ts0oM7sq1yI/AAAAAAAAAjg/UFCHQ1sZm1s/s1600/banana+cream+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uzicVkfF8Ck/Ts0oM7sq1yI/AAAAAAAAAjg/UFCHQ1sZm1s/s320/banana+cream+pie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2008/11/turtle-cheesecake.html">turtle cheesecake</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nyCL2V-zP8k/Ts0oS_-wEiI/AAAAAAAAAkA/ushvSFurM7o/s1600/turtle+cheese+cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nyCL2V-zP8k/Ts0oS_-wEiI/AAAAAAAAAkA/ushvSFurM7o/s320/turtle+cheese+cake.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.momswhothink.com/pie-recipes/apple-pie-recipe.html">apple pie</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-goYIMO_-JmY/Ts0oMgIpOdI/AAAAAAAAAjY/1xeHGwmNvT4/s1600/apple+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-goYIMO_-JmY/Ts0oMgIpOdI/AAAAAAAAAjY/1xeHGwmNvT4/s320/apple+pie.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hope You Enjoy!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-24177917684160661822011-11-17T12:55:00.000-08:002011-11-17T12:55:36.404-08:00Potateos<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Basic Smashed Potatoes<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niX_zAi15Ac/Tr1ll4-mXuI/AAAAAAAAAiM/iiTWknQV8d0/s1600/cheese+smashed+potatoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niX_zAi15Ac/Tr1ll4-mXuI/AAAAAAAAAiM/iiTWknQV8d0/s320/cheese+smashed+potatoes.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/two-cheese-and-rosemary-mashed-potato-casserole/8b109515-b706-402f-9077-3e7d11f3b743">http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/two-cheese-and-rosemary-mashed-potato-casserole</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cheesy Potatoes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R3cI1iDw8Bs/Tr1qcrsfWYI/AAAAAAAAAiU/i44-YF-f4fY/s1600/cheesey+potatoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R3cI1iDw8Bs/Tr1qcrsfWYI/AAAAAAAAAiU/i44-YF-f4fY/s1600/cheesey+potatoes.jpg" /></a></div><a href="http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1850,148182-225196,00.html">http://www.cooks.com/rec</a><br />
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The Graham clan requires two types of potatoes every year. The top dish is a traditional smashed potatoes. It can be added to and changed up. The second dish is a cheesy potato, my sisters favorite. Both are really great!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"> Hope You Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-16050640282932534512011-11-13T23:43:00.000-08:002011-11-13T23:43:04.187-08:00Pre-Dinner Munchies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pre-Dinner snacks are as big of a tradition in my family as turkey and gravy. My wonderful aunts usually make 4-5 different dips or platters for the family to munch on while dinner is being prepared. My grandpa and the other men in the house especially love having these snacks for the football game. Here are just a few of my favorites:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXqY1-pZEaE/TsCJPO7ENHI/AAAAAAAAAic/Tsb35NuBjeY/s320/bread+dip.jpg" width="320" /> </div>Cheesy Bread Dip. I tried this recipe about 3 months ago at a friend's house and it was a big hit.<a href="http://triedandtasty.com/2011/01/cheesy-baked-dip/"> http://triedandtasty.com/2011/01/cheesy-baked-dip/</a> And it is even better when you get to eat the bread bowl.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ624bomWWQ/TsCKSB-r0oI/AAAAAAAAAik/XmeqVCTxP9o/s1600/onion+dip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ624bomWWQ/TsCKSB-r0oI/AAAAAAAAAik/XmeqVCTxP9o/s1600/onion+dip.jpg" /></a></div> We have had Onion Dip with chips for as long as I can remember. It's such an easy recipe: just pick up a pack of dry onion dip mix (I think it's in the salad dressing aisle), a container of sour cream (follow recipe on the onion dip mix package), and chips.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ByAKDwit3J4/TsCKSStflRI/AAAAAAAAAis/OhR_TS2e4P8/s1600/salami+roll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ByAKDwit3J4/TsCKSStflRI/AAAAAAAAAis/OhR_TS2e4P8/s1600/salami+roll.jpg" /></a></div> Here is another great side that my Aunt Jennifer makes. I was surprised by how much my husband really liked them. All it is is a slice of cream cheese next to a jalapeno rolled up in a salami. Use a tooth pick to hold together. (I usually take out the jalapeno and eat the rest.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yk86ZvoyRRs/TsCKShG2hhI/AAAAAAAAAi0/cq4zTgoodQo/s1600/salsa+and+cream+cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yk86ZvoyRRs/TsCKShG2hhI/AAAAAAAAAi0/cq4zTgoodQo/s1600/salsa+and+cream+cheese.jpg" /></a></div> My family really likes chips and dip so here is another recipe. Take a block of cream cheese and pour salsa over it. Eat with chips or veggies. The last few years, someone has been bringing peach salsa and putting it over the cream cheese. I think I like that better. I'm not sure where they get it from, but if you ever see peach salsa you should try it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ynLzWA5Bm8Q/TsCKTA2ghgI/AAAAAAAAAi8/_ruonEwAipk/s1600/veggie+platter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ynLzWA5Bm8Q/TsCKTA2ghgI/AAAAAAAAAi8/_ruonEwAipk/s1600/veggie+platter.jpg" /></a></div>And for good measure, one of my Aunts usually puts out a veggie tray. It usually consists of olives, carrots, celery, pickles, and carrots with ranch in the middle.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_HK7Fzq88zA/TsCOMkyqGaI/AAAAAAAAAjE/-ayxnZnuytc/s1600/fruit+salsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_HK7Fzq88zA/TsCOMkyqGaI/AAAAAAAAAjE/-ayxnZnuytc/s320/fruit+salsa.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is a new recipe for me but I love it! It's fruit salad with cinnamon chips. <a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2010/05/fruit-salsa-with-baked-cinnamon-chips.html">This recipe</a> uses very few ingredients, but I've had fruit salsa with all kinds of fruit including mango, strawberries, raspberries, bananas, etc. Also, if you don't want to make chips you can get cinnamon flavored Pita chips from the store. This is a great way to incorporate fruit into your Thanksgiving feast. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hope You Enjoy!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-57456825605148636102011-11-11T09:57:00.000-08:002011-11-11T09:57:24.433-08:00Green BeansOk, so I know I've been slacking in the recipe updates but I'm gonna make up for it. Today I'm bringing you two recipe for green beans. The first is one of my favorite dishes of Thanksgiving and Christmas.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Green Bean Casserole </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-layxcbILBoY/Tr1bm-JPgJI/AAAAAAAAAh0/7-_jFcRpZn8/s1600/greenbean+cassrole.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My favorite part of this dish is the fried onions on the top, yum. Follow this link to get the official recipe: <a href="http://www.frenchs.com/recipe/frenchs-green-bean-casserole-RE1511">http://www.frenchs.com/recipe/</a>. </div><br />
<br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"></h3><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Garlic-Roasted Green Beans Recipe with Shallots and Almonds</span></span></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gXHS-3AXiOU/Tr1bnkIV2EI/AAAAAAAAAh8/VCBbK9RJA9Q/s320/greenbean+garlic.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I haven't tried this recipe yet but it is on my menu this year. If anybody gets to this recipe before I do, please let me know how they turn out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Hope You Enjoy!</span></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-73027145229299355362011-11-06T16:06:00.000-08:002011-11-06T16:06:04.106-08:00Texas Road House Rolls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjBblfHzYyM/Trcb57UKXQI/AAAAAAAAAhs/q4OeBR5BFEk/s1600/144462904_ZLIkEPJn_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjBblfHzYyM/Trcb57UKXQI/AAAAAAAAAhs/q4OeBR5BFEk/s320/144462904_ZLIkEPJn_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>One food item that no Thanksgiving feast should be without is a basket of warm rolls. I have found the best roll recipe ever! Seriously, people, look no further. This is the only roll recipe you will ever need! I made it with some friends a few weeks ago and they turned out fluffy but thick, and melt in your mouth. The recipe is pretty simple. I'm gonna give you the link to the blog I found the recipe on (<a href="http://eatcakefordinner.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-04-25T18%3A40%3A00-06%3A00&max-results=6">eatcakefordinner</a>). Her directions were okay . . . but if I can do it, so can you! Bonus: We followed her notes at the bottom of the recipe that helped the rolls split apart easily.Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-70068073348386695162011-11-02T08:32:00.000-07:002011-11-02T08:32:48.264-07:00Welcome to November<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MzpG78tXE-I/TrFZ_IP-7KI/AAAAAAAAAhc/Aojq7dUif8k/s1600/bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MzpG78tXE-I/TrFZ_IP-7KI/AAAAAAAAAhc/Aojq7dUif8k/s1600/bridge.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's November, or what I like to call "Unlimited Calorie" month. And to celebrate I'm gonna be featuring recipes for Thanksgiving and what to do with the leftovers. I would love to hear from you about your favorite holiday recipe or a recipe you want to try. This will be a season of traditional favorites and new holiday treats.</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-43297176884829371532011-10-31T09:49:00.000-07:002011-10-31T09:49:08.455-07:00HaPpY HaLLoWeeN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/WAXMtUCcp7o?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hope you enjoy this video and have a spooky Halloween!</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-72423656032750482612011-10-30T01:51:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:51:17.764-07:001 Day to Halloween<div style="text-align: center;">Trick-or-Treat Etiquette<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SW1j99IOHPw/TqzbkdIOFRI/AAAAAAAAAeE/NIHhfdh_ssM/s1600/trick+or+treaters.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Unwritten Rules of Halloween</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"> 1. Trick-or-Treating starts just after dark (~7pm). Some people argue that little kids should trick-or-treat before dark and older kids go after dark. But it is generally assumed that 9 pm is the cut off time for trick-or-treating. However, your city my have a specific time for trick-or-treating.</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Only ring the door bells of the houses with the porch lights on. And only ring the door bell once.</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Everyone receiving candy must be in costume. You gotta earn that candy.</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Age limit for trick-or-treaters should be 12-13 years old. But if you have younger children with you, the older kids can come if they are in costume.</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. To get candy you must say "Trick-or-Treat" and remember to say thank you after receiving candy. You should only take one piece unless otherwise instructed. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PqwJV9VHXMU/TqzgQOXn8jI/AAAAAAAAAeM/p7kL_9tWOEQ/s1600/tot1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PqwJV9VHXMU/TqzgQOXn8jI/AAAAAAAAAeM/p7kL_9tWOEQ/s1600/tot1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Safety Rules to Follow<br />
<div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">1.Young children should always go trick-or-treating with an <b>adult</b>. Never trick-or-treat alone!! Have at least <b>2 friends</b> go with you.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">2.Plan you entire <b>route </b>and make sure your family knows what it is.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Wear only <b>flame retardant </b>costumes and accessories.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span class="style1" style="font-size: large;">4. Accept candy only in the <b>doorway</b>. Never go inside a house. Don't take <b>unwrapped </b>candy.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span class="style1" style="font-size: large;">5. <b>Don't play</b> near lit jack-o-lanterns or other open flames. </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">6. <b>WALK!</b> don't RUN. Stay on sidewalks and driveways. Cross the street only in crosswalks.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">7. Take a <b>cell phone</b> with you if possible.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="style1">8. <b>Carry a flashlight.</b></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nz4Pj96-W_I/Tqzgdbj8UYI/AAAAAAAAAeU/G1O7x0T2kWM/s1600/tot3.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Have a fun and safe Halloween!</span></div></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;"><span class="style1"></span></span></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-33906676880141155202011-10-29T10:34:00.000-07:002011-10-29T10:34:50.086-07:002 Days to Halloween<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Haunted Houses in Houston</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NuP5U1bVjnE/TquOu3iWx9I/AAAAAAAAAb0/Rr0oYo7X5PQ/s320/IMG_5406.JPG" width="320" /></div> Since Bruce and I will be stuck at home studying on Halloween night, we decided to admire the Halloween decor today. Here are some of our favorite houses. Not only are these houses beautiful, but they have spared no inflatable prop while decorating. REALLY what happened to the good old spider webs and tomb stones? When I was a kid, people stuck chicken bones and fake blood on their front yard to scare off trick-or-treaters. Seriously, we need some good scary houses. Please send me a picture if you find one!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vQsZzOk4dcc/TquPC9RfYXI/AAAAAAAAAb8/c__ej5acC-Q/s1600/IMG_5408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vQsZzOk4dcc/TquPC9RfYXI/AAAAAAAAAb8/c__ej5acC-Q/s320/IMG_5408.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> This was Bruce's favorite. It's a spider crawling down the balcony.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6DeubHbRlBk/TquPboF150I/AAAAAAAAAcE/D9sNKdgwscI/s1600/IMG_5410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6DeubHbRlBk/TquPboF150I/AAAAAAAAAcE/D9sNKdgwscI/s320/IMG_5410.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was the creepiest front yard. It was random scarecrow-like figures in purple dresses with masks. You have to give them an A for creativity. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fFMeOJH5SL4/TquQOzzf40I/AAAAAAAAAcU/pR-vlR_IZLc/s1600/IMG_5412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fFMeOJH5SL4/TquQOzzf40I/AAAAAAAAAcU/pR-vlR_IZLc/s320/IMG_5412.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Straight out of a serial-killer movie is this colonial style home. I bet this house is frightening at night. If you look closely you can see that trick-or-treaters have to walk past the giant spider with a severed human foot dangling out of its mouth. And on the other side of the walkway is a graveyard who's occupants have dug their way out of their coffins. You may not make it back in one piece . . .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Sqzs38TkaI/TquQkvF6UUI/AAAAAAAAAcc/63CJlblBZqE/s320/IMG_5413.JPG" width="320" /></div>Pretty cool doorway decoration. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3WJWtSte_c8/TquRVmcoUII/AAAAAAAAAcs/TbSL9sCsfHE/s320/IMG_5415.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another haunted house that utilized the fake cob webs. They even have one of those creepy zombie babies on the porch bench.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7E710c8iGUU/TquSaqfKXqI/AAAAAAAAAc8/ila88q-jgLQ/s1600/IMG_5417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7E710c8iGUU/TquSaqfKXqI/AAAAAAAAAc8/ila88q-jgLQ/s320/IMG_5417.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another cool entryway.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1QNt1YkxGc/TquS5KQaONI/AAAAAAAAAdE/e8z80fUVIx0/s1600/IMG_5418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1QNt1YkxGc/TquS5KQaONI/AAAAAAAAAdE/e8z80fUVIx0/s320/IMG_5418.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>What 90's thriller does this scene take you back to? Arachnophobia! The movie that still haunts me these days. <br />
<br />
Now that you have got the hebe-geebees, see if you can find any houses in your neighborhood to top these ones.</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-35210352730011362202011-10-28T10:11:00.000-07:002011-10-28T13:22:49.738-07:003 Days to Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Trick-or-Treat Bags</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEirebJou5w/TqsPAcItIXI/AAAAAAAAAbs/x81qsKAdGfw/s1600/IMG_5405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEirebJou5w/TqsPAcItIXI/AAAAAAAAAbs/x81qsKAdGfw/s320/IMG_5405.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Who says you have to use a boring old pillow case for a tick-or-treat bag. How about having your kids make their own bags this year. It can be as easy as stickers to a bag or more involved with glitter and buttons. I decided to use felt. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kN4czpYTL2c/TqrH2WfOyrI/AAAAAAAAAaU/cqywXq6McK4/s320/IMG_5398.JPG" width="320" /></div> Here are a few things you may want to have on hand:<br />
-felt<br />
-scissors<br />
-buttons<br />
-fabric<br />
-fabric scraps<br />
-hot glue gun<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iVzuv5Qb_wA/TqrINqe3c-I/AAAAAAAAAac/-zepVijgucI/s320/IMG_5399.JPG" width="240" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First cut the top 1 inch to 1 1/2 off the top of the felt sheets. These will be used for the handles. Hot glue them on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-StuUTrbBtJw/TqrJklXIuoI/AAAAAAAAAa0/5N2ga8vrCog/s1600/IMG_5402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-StuUTrbBtJw/TqrJklXIuoI/AAAAAAAAAa0/5N2ga8vrCog/s320/IMG_5402.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Next, cut out the eyes, mouth, nose, and other features or shapes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGJ2C3VyEmg/TqrJ_2WL4ZI/AAAAAAAAAa8/9c2XpHL8ZtY/s320/IMG_5403.JPG" width="240" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Assemble your shapes on the bag. And hot glue them on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E-rvzpUpXUY/TqrRu-XAoOI/AAAAAAAAAbU/IZVcDgtBWDQ/s1600/IMG_5404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E-rvzpUpXUY/TqrRu-XAoOI/AAAAAAAAAbU/IZVcDgtBWDQ/s320/IMG_5404.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Finally, glue the front of the bag to the back of the bag. Now, you and your kids are ready to hit the streets with your new candy bags.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ywa5uuS9h-U/TqrSWweY_yI/AAAAAAAAAbc/3V9TwXo3S8A/s1600/candy+bag1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ywa5uuS9h-U/TqrSWweY_yI/AAAAAAAAAbc/3V9TwXo3S8A/s1600/candy+bag1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are some more ideas for trick-or-treat bags. </div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-24054726218107636482011-10-26T22:40:00.000-07:002011-10-26T22:40:29.432-07:004 Days to Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Caramel Apples</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9X06gVTP1k/Tqjikk-TJ5I/AAAAAAAAAaE/kPDBNv2FCY0/s320/IMG_5394.JPG" width="240" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can never go wrong with caramel and apples. Whether it's the contrast between the sweet of the caramel and the sour of the apple, or the candy pieces, this treat will have you licking your fingers when it's gone. To make it even better, I found a recipe that is simple and fast.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fXVe7G3b2hY/TqjegzY6qsI/AAAAAAAAAYM/6Liz0ERNRQ8/s1600/IMG_5379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fXVe7G3b2hY/TqjegzY6qsI/AAAAAAAAAYM/6Liz0ERNRQ8/s320/IMG_5379.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Here are the ingredients you will need:<br />
- Green apples<br />
-Popsicle sticks or wooden sticks. (I found these at Walmart for $1)<br />
-Pure Caramel pieces<br />
-Your choice of extra toppings. Anything from nuts and sprinkles to your favorite candy bar will work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yy-z9unG2-g/Tqje0UwBouI/AAAAAAAAAYU/kp1mxGxwZy4/s1600/IMG_5380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yy-z9unG2-g/Tqje0UwBouI/AAAAAAAAAYU/kp1mxGxwZy4/s320/IMG_5380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Make sure you wash your apples and take out the stem before inserting the stick. I used a hammer to tap it in. Do not go all the way through the apple. About half way works fine.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFlJK3aR5zk/TqjhOcbWjwI/AAAAAAAAAZc/juit6pbKZFc/s1600/IMG_5389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFlJK3aR5zk/TqjhOcbWjwI/AAAAAAAAAZc/juit6pbKZFc/s320/IMG_5389.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cover a cookie sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray. Live and Learn: DO NOT USE WAX PAPER - the apples will stick. At least that's what happened to me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zkedj1J-d3M/TqjfXDQmspI/AAAAAAAAAYk/i5YaZt_C-to/s1600/IMG_5382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zkedj1J-d3M/TqjfXDQmspI/AAAAAAAAAYk/i5YaZt_C-to/s320/IMG_5382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Unwrap the amount of caramel you want to use for your apple. I only made one apple so I used about 10-12 individual caramel pieces. If you are doing a whole batch of apples (4 or more) I would use the entire bag. If you are using the entire bag, you will need to add 2 Tbsp water to the caramel. The quickest way to melt the caramel is to microwave it on high for about 1-3 min. You have to stir the caramel every 30 seconds. Live and Learn: When I make these again I am either going to keep them melted over the stove or put them in a hot water bath. Otherwise, I found that it got hard really fast.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hjL5GD3Iuec/TqjfpXHPwaI/AAAAAAAAAYs/f8M51CrUUAs/s1600/IMG_5383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hjL5GD3Iuec/TqjfpXHPwaI/AAAAAAAAAYs/f8M51CrUUAs/s320/IMG_5383.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Cut your candy or get your other toppings ready. Live and Learn: When I make these again, I am going to stick the candy onto the caramel apple before it cools. They will stay better.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xV-PnNbWJw/TqjgZY-8-4I/AAAAAAAAAZE/xCZECxjFWIs/s1600/IMG_5386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xV-PnNbWJw/TqjgZY-8-4I/AAAAAAAAAZE/xCZECxjFWIs/s320/IMG_5386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> When your caramel is melted, roll your apple in it. If you used the whole bag you may be able to dip the apples. You can also use a small plastic spatula to smooth out and spread the caramel. Also, let the excess caramel drip off the apple before flattening the bottom of the apple.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ocusQYoa8KU/TqjgrSNx54I/AAAAAAAAAZM/_zj-QD9LfrM/s320/IMG_5387.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Refrigerate your apples for 10-15 min to let them get cool. Some recipes ask you to wait 1 hour, but I'm not that patient. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXl6HXmEWPI/Tqjg8f2Ef_I/AAAAAAAAAZU/UaGXwNGfM1k/s1600/IMG_5388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXl6HXmEWPI/Tqjg8f2Ef_I/AAAAAAAAAZU/UaGXwNGfM1k/s320/IMG_5388.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Here is my first attempt at the caramel apple. It wasn't a complete failure. I scraped off the wax paper and smoothed out the bubbles with a spatula. Reminder: use tin foil; not wax paper.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XKlIstbEhEc/TqjhgLJVI_I/AAAAAAAAAZk/vJ9iLmkxnEo/s320/IMG_5390.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> To help the candy attach, and because it's yummy, I melted some chocolate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y58S5aOSvhw/TqjhtuALExI/AAAAAAAAAZs/El3Inyhcn2Y/s320/IMG_5391.JPG" width="320" /></div>Roll the apple in the chocolate, and let the excess drip off. This is when I added the candy. I had to push the pieces into the apple so they wouldn't drip off. Be careful not to push too hard. Put back into the refrigerator to set the chocolate.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0Zw0DdU95A/TqjiBWrmsnI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/g0xRJGDaPXE/s1600/IMG_5392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0Zw0DdU95A/TqjiBWrmsnI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/g0xRJGDaPXE/s320/IMG_5392.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Here is the yummy apple! You can get really creative by drizzling more caramel, chocolate, or peanut butter over the apple. Have fun with the toppings. When you are ready to eat the apple, try cutting it into pieces with a knife or with an apple cutter. I hope you enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-37118331771599270422011-10-25T23:11:00.000-07:002011-10-26T09:53:08.439-07:005 Days to Halloween<div style="text-align: center;">Halloween History<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ORCYzlppcU/Tqej5tAUxCI/AAAAAAAAAYE/z9fx3zsNWuY/s1600/ghost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ORCYzlppcU/Tqej5tAUxCI/AAAAAAAAAYE/z9fx3zsNWuY/s1600/ghost.jpg" /></a></div> <br />
I found this great documentary about Halloween yesterday and I had to share it. It's not really scary, the freeze frame looks scary. It's a short history on everything from Halloween traditions, Halloween candy, costumes, Mexico's Day of the Dead, and why we get scared. Here is a little taste of the episode:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/R-VRAemIvbI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>If you like what you see, follow this link to <a href="http://www.hulu.com/watch/188576/national-geographic-specials-halloween-unmasked?hw=1#s-p1-so-i3">hulu.com </a>to watch the full episode. It's about 40-45min.<br />
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If you are in the mood for something that will make your senses tingle, follow these links to read a short ghost story. Some of these stories are creepy, other are common urban ledgens. <br />
<a href="http://www.halloweenishere.com/ghost_stories.html">http://www.halloweenishere.com/ghost_stories.html</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.halloween-website.com/scary_stories.htm">http://www.halloween-website.com/scary_stories.htm</a><br />
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And I added a link to some stories for kids that are not as spooky.<br />
<a href="http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/halloween/kids-short-stories/the-phantom-knight-of-the-vandal-camp.html">http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/halloween/kids-short-stories/the-phantom-knight-of-the-vandal-camp.html</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4ElCvhbuwk/TqejEdmugAI/AAAAAAAAAX8/Macrqppbfbg/s1600/hall+monsters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4ElCvhbuwk/TqejEdmugAI/AAAAAAAAAX8/Macrqppbfbg/s1600/hall+monsters.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: yellow;">Warning:</b></span> Do NOT read before bed. I hid under the covers all night! </div><br />
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</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-11293340289874398672011-10-25T10:27:00.000-07:002011-10-25T10:33:03.510-07:006 Days to Halloween<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Outdoor Halloween Decoration Ideas</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sm0-efAXkKc/TqYOC29N1SI/AAAAAAAAAWs/Doi2D-1NZAM/s1600/coloring+haunted+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sm0-efAXkKc/TqYOC29N1SI/AAAAAAAAAWs/Doi2D-1NZAM/s1600/coloring+haunted+house.jpg" /></a></div><blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">Sight seeing Halloween houses is one of my favorite activities in October. I love all the spooky decorations. They are even more fun on Halloween night. Here are a few ideas to spice up your yard for Halloween.</blockquote></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AP2mDqlhYE4/TqYrmHDji9I/AAAAAAAAAW0/_VVhB-wKwd4/s1600/IMG_3933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AP2mDqlhYE4/TqYrmHDji9I/AAAAAAAAAW0/_VVhB-wKwd4/s320/IMG_3933.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Bush Witch<br />
This is one of my own creations. I found the legs and hat in a dollar bin at Target. They light-up eyes are from the grocery store. I think she is super cute! <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dlv-wtTt2wY/TqYJ8liwZDI/AAAAAAAAAWM/dgnRHgURmQM/s320/bats+on+door.jpg" width="250" /></div> Bat Attack<br />
This is another simply spooky idea. The bats are cut from black paper and taped to the door and wall. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j3-23qB_lYM/TqYJ9F6K0yI/AAAAAAAAAWU/SJLdfHCL64M/s1600/ghost.jpg" /></div> Ghoulish Ghost<br />
This ghost was made with an old white sheet, a ball for the head, and paint for the face.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-07ZB7EkTPjE/TqbyQA85y3I/AAAAAAAAAXE/ixcaOK_n2SU/s1600/gravestones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-07ZB7EkTPjE/TqbyQA85y3I/AAAAAAAAAXE/ixcaOK_n2SU/s1600/gravestones.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Carve Your Own Gravestones<br />
I found this great tutorial I just had to share: <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/323703/Gravestones---milwaukee">http://www.houzz.com/</a><br />
or <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/halloweengraveyards">http://www.squidoo.com/halloweengraveyards</a> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GyzYxh_EhdI/TqYJ-OLO9VI/AAAAAAAAAWk/pNrZorLOYcA/s1600/window+decor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GyzYxh_EhdI/TqYJ-OLO9VI/AAAAAAAAAWk/pNrZorLOYcA/s320/window+decor.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Scary Silhouette<br />
I had never thought of this until I saw this picture! All you need is black paper, scissors, tape, bright light, and a silhouette. And it's an easy clean up, no cob webs!!<br />
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Now that you know how to make your house a little more eerie, I have an assignment for you. Explore your neighborhood and admire all the spine-chilling homes in your area. Take a picture of your favorite house and email it to me. I will post them this Friday, the 28th, for everyone to see!</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-80117786679174548992011-10-23T22:02:00.000-07:002011-10-23T22:02:19.085-07:007 Days to Halloween<div style="text-align: center;">Last minute Halloween Costumes<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aP2m7K7dLM8/TqTZpsOMOHI/AAAAAAAAAUU/6xE41pLDm88/s1600/farmer.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Farmer</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Simple overalls or suspenders with a plaid shirt and a straw hat. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98pL4BqDU6c/TqTZqCaF8iI/AAAAAAAAAUc/0MR7iRAkEZ0/s1600/father+and+son.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98pL4BqDU6c/TqTZqCaF8iI/AAAAAAAAAUc/0MR7iRAkEZ0/s1600/father+and+son.jpg" /></a></div> Scientist Smarty Pants<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHnbQjVZTSY/TqTZq3Zr1fI/AAAAAAAAAUk/01sgRiWbMQQ/s1600/Frog+Prince+and+Priness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHnbQjVZTSY/TqTZq3Zr1fI/AAAAAAAAAUk/01sgRiWbMQQ/s320/Frog+Prince+and+Priness.jpg" width="256" /></a></div> Cute Frog Prince and Princess Hoddies<br />
Here is the tutorial; courtesy of Martha Stewart: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/271461/hoodie-costumes-frog-prince-and-princess">http://www.marthastewart.com/271461/hoodie-costumes-frog-prince-and-princess</a> She also has a tutorial for Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fv7LRwKWB78/TqTZrL1ZciI/AAAAAAAAAUs/sSTIJ3F7BzA/s1600/hippie.jpg" /></div>Hippies<br />
Another simple idea for clothes you may already have in your closet, or your parents' closet. The mustache is a great touch.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xnlZXfhgLSQ/TqTZruHdqGI/AAAAAAAAAU0/wnpV8MBD5xI/s1600/knight+and+dragon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xnlZXfhgLSQ/TqTZruHdqGI/AAAAAAAAAU0/wnpV8MBD5xI/s320/knight+and+dragon.jpg" width="256" /></a></div> A Knight made out of tin foil.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qh2TVWklszc/TqTZsMKOCpI/AAAAAAAAAU8/x202zLNi81o/s1600/medusa+Hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qh2TVWklszc/TqTZsMKOCpI/AAAAAAAAAU8/x202zLNi81o/s1600/medusa+Hair.jpg" /></a></div>Medusa<br />
I thought this was so cool! I might try this just for fun. Here is the tutorial: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/271526/medusa-hair">http://www.marthastewart.com/271526/medusa-hair</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wSweLuBY6Bo/TqTZsUxqHiI/AAAAAAAAAVE/PPAtZt1f0Vc/s1600/miss+universe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wSweLuBY6Bo/TqTZsUxqHiI/AAAAAAAAAVE/PPAtZt1f0Vc/s1600/miss+universe.jpg" /></a></div>Miss Universe<br />
All you need is a fancy (sparkly) dress, a crown, and sash. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rqcVt59VzyU/TqTZsmyyFQI/AAAAAAAAAVM/FsUYDqJyAFw/s1600/nerds.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nerds</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The nerd costume revolves around over-sized glasses, nerdy hair, and a tucked in shirt. This is a fun one for teens.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c3dNQJSjZ0g/TqTZuTTKsrI/AAAAAAAAAVs/iYXqbPqbOaU/s1600/sun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c3dNQJSjZ0g/TqTZuTTKsrI/AAAAAAAAAVs/iYXqbPqbOaU/s320/sun.jpg" width="239" /></a></div> A Sunbeam<br />
This one is a little fancy, but a felt sun on the front of a yellow sweater would do the trick. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oecax4zdzPA/TqTZtwG9CJI/AAAAAAAAAVk/Hu_ISzX2gJk/s1600/stick+man.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oecax4zdzPA/TqTZtwG9CJI/AAAAAAAAAVk/Hu_ISzX2gJk/s1600/stick+man.jpg" /></a></div>Stick Person <br />
I love this idea! My old young women's leader's son did this one year. For this costume you want to dress in all black, and glue glow sticks on body to made a stick figure.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onNunEJ9cZo/TqTZtUO7uxI/AAAAAAAAAVc/wpsEUr8mxoE/s1600/spirder+princess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onNunEJ9cZo/TqTZtUO7uxI/AAAAAAAAAVc/wpsEUr8mxoE/s320/spirder+princess.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>Spider Princess <br />
Another cute idea. Here is the tutorial: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/271940/paper-pumpkin-costume-cat-costume-and-sp?page=1">http://www.marthastewart.com/271940/paper-pumpkin-costume-cat-costume-and-sp?page=1</a> My favorite part is the spider web wings. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6HHeXGIQp4E/TqTZs2LCanI/AAAAAAAAAVU/JL_jPq8QADQ/s1600/scarcrow.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scarecrow</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just some straw and patched up clothes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ItwR_Kp3X2Q/TqTZvjOK1jI/AAAAAAAAAWE/I17GhktJJaE/s1600/twister.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ItwR_Kp3X2Q/TqTZvjOK1jI/AAAAAAAAAWE/I17GhktJJaE/s320/twister.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>Twister <br />
This was another really creative idea, especially in Texas!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hzPqktnazdQ/TqTZvK7XNII/AAAAAAAAAV8/dIk_l2xfDus/s1600/super+hero2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hzPqktnazdQ/TqTZvK7XNII/AAAAAAAAAV8/dIk_l2xfDus/s320/super+hero2.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>Super Hero <br />
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I hope this list gives you a few good ideas for Halloween costumes. </div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-33138589900234069162011-10-23T13:06:00.000-07:002011-10-23T13:06:41.099-07:008 Days to Halloween<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Spooky Treats</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W48lF87zfsQ/TqMQWgvyQUI/AAAAAAAAATk/JC2hQUc3KEk/s320/IMG_5332.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are just a few ideas for dressing up your desserts for Halloween. In this picture I made a cupcake into an owl cupcake. All it is is an Oreo (use double-stuffed) and M&Ms for the eyes, frosting or a candy corn for the beak, and a little extra frosting above the eyes for a brow. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ttgG01EUOtk/TqOlGnhQ8II/AAAAAAAAATs/--giCJqv25U/s1600/candy+corn+cookie.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For this fun and easy cookie idea you need your favorite peanut butter cookie recipe and a pack of Hershey's Candy Corn Kisses. Follow the cookie recipe and add the Kisses as you would for a Peanut Butter Blossom. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YvOvltZmzt8/TqOlHrZTiII/AAAAAAAAAT0/VC5rc-4ajY8/s320/candy+corn+rice+crispy.jpg" width="320" /></div>This is my experiment for today. Here is the recipe for you to follow: <a href="http://www.lovefromtheoven.com/2011/09/09/candy-corn-krispy-treat-pretzel-pops/">http://www.lovefromtheoven.com/2011/09/09/candy-corn-krispy-treat-pretzel-pops/</a><br />
They used store-bought Rice Crispy Treats, but I made my own and they turned out great.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7r1w50tI6uk/TqOncA7UTnI/AAAAAAAAAT8/-L8ro4OfLRw/s1600/dirt+cupcake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7r1w50tI6uk/TqOncA7UTnI/AAAAAAAAAT8/-L8ro4OfLRw/s1600/dirt+cupcake.jpg" /></a></div> Dirt for Dessert! I found this simple dirt recipe here: <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/cakes-cupcakes/theme-cupcakes/w-is-for-worms-cupcake-685459/">http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/cakes-cupcakes/theme-cupcakes/w-is-for-worms-cupcake-685459/</a><br />
It isn't a true dirt recipe but it's a quick and easy way to dress up your cupcake.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FDIfRR6gqrU/TqOnccJ-_EI/AAAAAAAAAUE/RSPPeecTkn4/s1600/monster+cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FDIfRR6gqrU/TqOnccJ-_EI/AAAAAAAAAUE/RSPPeecTkn4/s1600/monster+cupcakes.jpg" /></a></div>I love these cupcakes! They look pretty simple if you have the right tip to decorate. It looks like all it is a grass tip all over the cupcake; then a #4 or 5 for the eyes and #2 for the pupil. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z5E46v3OLX0/TqOnclkak8I/AAAAAAAAAUM/cizyv4TMbiQ/s1600/pumpkin+frosting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z5E46v3OLX0/TqOnclkak8I/AAAAAAAAAUM/cizyv4TMbiQ/s1600/pumpkin+frosting.jpg" /></a></div>And this list wouldn't be complete without sugar cookies decorated like pumpkins. Just use your favorite sugar cook recipe to make the cookies. Frost with orange butter cream frosting, and decorate! <br />
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Live and Learn: Store-bought frosting is generally too runny to make small designs. If you want a frosting that will be more stiff try a home-made recipe. Here is my favorite home-made frosting recipe:<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">-1 cup shortening @room temperature. (You can use butter to make it taste better but it will not be a pure white)</div><div style="text-align: left;">-4 cups powdered sugar</div><div style="text-align: left;">-4 Tbsp. milk</div><div style="text-align: left;">-1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract/ butter extract/ or almond extract. (These may also give the frosting a hint of color.)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Combine all ingredients and mix well. (I use the Kitchen Aid)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here is a sugar cook recipe I highly recommend. Thank you Kim!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 c softened butter<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 c. sugar<br />
-cream these ingredients together, then add<br />
3 c. flour<br />
1 t salt<br />
1/2 t baking soda<br />
*the original recipe also has 1 1/2 t. vanilla, but Kim and her mom both hate vanilla, so they never add it</div><div style="text-align: left;">Bake at 400 degrees for 8 min.<br />
Make sure you don't roll them out too thin or they'll get crispy real fast:)</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span></div></div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5832026566762670374.post-87447005425698128652011-10-22T08:29:00.000-07:002011-10-25T12:16:11.628-07:009 Days to Halloween<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Halloween Movies For Everyone</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LnUigEixUvk/TqGso-cEP4I/AAAAAAAAARA/aBhn8lsMwSM/s1600/hocus+pocus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LnUigEixUvk/TqGso-cEP4I/AAAAAAAAARA/aBhn8lsMwSM/s1600/hocus+pocus.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-_7DCWR5uE/TqGslTfR9FI/AAAAAAAAAQA/s2qaJBAyTAE/s1600/Clue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-_7DCWR5uE/TqGslTfR9FI/AAAAAAAAAQA/s2qaJBAyTAE/s1600/Clue.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Every year about mid-September I start getting the hankering to watch Halloween movies. So I go online and Google "halloween movies." As you can imagine, all of the results are tear-your-guts-out horror movies, or Barney's Magic Halloween. This year I decided to make a list of my own. I have seen just about all of these movies, except Coraline and Young Frankenstein. If you have any movies you want added to this list just let me know! Hope you enjoy! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qx1V70VyKcE/TqGsjKZn0gI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/uQ02Svefn2o/s1600/arsenic+and+old+lace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qx1V70VyKcE/TqGsjKZn0gI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/uQ02Svefn2o/s1600/arsenic+and+old+lace.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HUm8dwT-xNY/TqGspMXkTwI/AAAAAAAAARI/kTqMXVBI8bE/s1600/Icabod+Crane+and+Mr+Todd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HUm8dwT-xNY/TqGspMXkTwI/AAAAAAAAARI/kTqMXVBI8bE/s1600/Icabod+Crane+and+Mr+Todd.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rstZLeSwEgY/TqGsod8GWHI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/7vE4V4luLGc/s1600/harry+potter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rstZLeSwEgY/TqGsod8GWHI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/7vE4V4luLGc/s1600/harry+potter.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lZgYubbjPo/TqGspXOSumI/AAAAAAAAARQ/dj1vAeOShPU/s1600/monsters+inc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lZgYubbjPo/TqGspXOSumI/AAAAAAAAARQ/dj1vAeOShPU/s1600/monsters+inc.jpg" /></a></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKvQfjPGcOY/TqGsniHyyfI/AAAAAAAAAQo/TKgdET9SBm8/s1600/gremlins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKvQfjPGcOY/TqGsniHyyfI/AAAAAAAAAQo/TKgdET9SBm8/s1600/gremlins.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ2pi8aeVgc/TqGsnyw-zWI/AAAAAAAAAQw/DKlJ3546n98/s1600/Halloweentown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ2pi8aeVgc/TqGsnyw-zWI/AAAAAAAAAQw/DKlJ3546n98/s1600/Halloweentown.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1BM5hxkwwZc/TqGspllFoqI/AAAAAAAAARY/makpDadF41g/s1600/scooby+doo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1BM5hxkwwZc/TqGspllFoqI/AAAAAAAAARY/makpDadF41g/s1600/scooby+doo.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jhg07A3zOMs/TqGsjs6GiWI/AAAAAAAAAPY/YyNAS-6a0Qs/s1600/bedknobs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jhg07A3zOMs/TqGsjs6GiWI/AAAAAAAAAPY/YyNAS-6a0Qs/s1600/bedknobs.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aX4DaDCNtsI/TqGsmxofbXI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/Hvp1VcaBvmc/s1600/corpse+bride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aX4DaDCNtsI/TqGsmxofbXI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/Hvp1VcaBvmc/s1600/corpse+bride.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vvM7B916CBY/TqGsnIvVLJI/AAAAAAAAAQY/9LnQqoMXZwg/s1600/frankenstein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vvM7B916CBY/TqGsnIvVLJI/AAAAAAAAAQY/9LnQqoMXZwg/s1600/frankenstein.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BVjC-zJxBWU/TqGsnUJXU9I/AAAAAAAAAQg/mheDCU5Xem0/s1600/ghostbusters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BVjC-zJxBWU/TqGsnUJXU9I/AAAAAAAAAQg/mheDCU5Xem0/s1600/ghostbusters.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbDZXfoRAOY/TqGsqIljnJI/AAAAAAAAARg/lg1DP3d0gUA/s1600/sleep+hallow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbDZXfoRAOY/TqGsqIljnJI/AAAAAAAAARg/lg1DP3d0gUA/s1600/sleep+hallow.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk1BAkdhvMA/TqGsqe4Bn9I/AAAAAAAAARo/WEz0Yn-oH3M/s1600/so+I+married+an+ax.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk1BAkdhvMA/TqGsqe4Bn9I/AAAAAAAAARo/WEz0Yn-oH3M/s1600/so+I+married+an+ax.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-aTHJOapz0/TqGsrgJeQNI/AAAAAAAAASA/nAucQIds2RQ/s1600/the+nightmare+before+christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-aTHJOapz0/TqGsrgJeQNI/AAAAAAAAASA/nAucQIds2RQ/s1600/the+nightmare+before+christmas.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X3xeYgcdgaw/TqGsravScRI/AAAAAAAAAR4/kCLOhtGYv9k/s1600/the+haunted+mansion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X3xeYgcdgaw/TqGsravScRI/AAAAAAAAAR4/kCLOhtGYv9k/s1600/the+haunted+mansion.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dhjW8vtlEb8/TqGsq6uKhMI/AAAAAAAAARw/_gcvJ89d8t4/s1600/the+adam%2527s+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dhjW8vtlEb8/TqGsq6uKhMI/AAAAAAAAARw/_gcvJ89d8t4/s1600/the+adam%2527s+family.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VeGYSzKXTvU/TqGskPJz52I/AAAAAAAAAPg/B31dn2TJ2jg/s1600/beetlejcuice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VeGYSzKXTvU/TqGskPJz52I/AAAAAAAAAPg/B31dn2TJ2jg/s1600/beetlejcuice.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAkJbgzGbO8/TqGsku8rn7I/AAAAAAAAAPo/kBvUt20MBvk/s1600/casper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAkJbgzGbO8/TqGsku8rn7I/AAAAAAAAAPo/kBvUt20MBvk/s1600/casper.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RgQ_MYeuSSU/TqGsk83DbmI/AAAAAAAAAPw/smMblUosCUw/s1600/casper+and+wendy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RgQ_MYeuSSU/TqGsk83DbmI/AAAAAAAAAPw/smMblUosCUw/s1600/casper+and+wendy.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9NeaslC4QY/TqGslJIqDrI/AAAAAAAAAP4/MOqbmC7S-Kg/s1600/charle+brown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9NeaslC4QY/TqGslJIqDrI/AAAAAAAAAP4/MOqbmC7S-Kg/s1600/charle+brown.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8zPaYm2PLZM/TqLg3Fk1KKI/AAAAAAAAATM/TZWzY0oC99Q/s1600/1408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8zPaYm2PLZM/TqLg3Fk1KKI/AAAAAAAAATM/TZWzY0oC99Q/s1600/1408.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rvR9JRR9Wp8/TqLg96Zs0BI/AAAAAAAAATU/rbXEB7gW6eY/s1600/monster+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rvR9JRR9Wp8/TqLg96Zs0BI/AAAAAAAAATU/rbXEB7gW6eY/s1600/monster+house.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eicncL-NSCM/TqLhGLZ9g5I/AAAAAAAAATc/PnOUsFK8Els/s1600/tower+of+terror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eicncL-NSCM/TqLhGLZ9g5I/AAAAAAAAATc/PnOUsFK8Els/s1600/tower+of+terror.jpg" /></a><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aelrYD2ETuI/TqGsmiNg70I/AAAAAAAAAQI/L0Y3BPljeSY/s1600/coraline.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Colton's (Brent and Cheryl) requested that I add a few movies to this list. Here it is:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EJfMGmmoZw/TqcJ1kQsp5I/AAAAAAAAAXM/SuTDXkJJPAg/s1600/arachnaphobia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EJfMGmmoZw/TqcJ1kQsp5I/AAAAAAAAAXM/SuTDXkJJPAg/s1600/arachnaphobia.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Xo4HnnZcZ8/TqcJ8xcDtII/AAAAAAAAAXU/76jx5Tmq-q0/s1600/Death+becomes+her.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Xo4HnnZcZ8/TqcJ8xcDtII/AAAAAAAAAXU/76jx5Tmq-q0/s1600/Death+becomes+her.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t7kdARSg410/TqcKBWC9aXI/AAAAAAAAAXc/6ODR0Dg9PwY/s1600/Garfield%2527s+Halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t7kdARSg410/TqcKBWC9aXI/AAAAAAAAAXc/6ODR0Dg9PwY/s1600/Garfield%2527s+Halloween.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9DfPX3y837I/TqcKRp4cZFI/AAAAAAAAAXs/ifUp-q85TB8/s1600/the+Burbs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9DfPX3y837I/TqcKRp4cZFI/AAAAAAAAAXs/ifUp-q85TB8/s1600/the+Burbs.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pYEs24dsecQ/TqcKR11K7YI/AAAAAAAAAX0/jPWaHJTzkTo/s1600/the+ghost+and+mr+chicken.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And Daniel suggested we add this movie: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_AEuqnTgmc/TqcKHH9Pq_I/AAAAAAAAAXk/5_kbaGj5LB8/s1600/I+am+Legend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_AEuqnTgmc/TqcKHH9Pq_I/AAAAAAAAAXk/5_kbaGj5LB8/s1600/I+am+Legend.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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</div>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028258673176603771noreply@blogger.com1