tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84719295154439978512024-03-12T20:04:41.322-05:00Anika's Polka DotteryAnikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.comBlogger185125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-10656610139639003852015-01-27T03:00:00.000-06:002015-01-27T03:00:02.598-06:00Three Years Post-Op UpdateToday marks 3 years since Ezra had his crazy Atypical Mycobacterial Infection removed! He is old enough now that when we show him the pictures and tell him the story about the day he kind of understands it...as well as an almost-4-year-old can. Ashton actually asks about it and comments on it more than Ezra does. Anyway, everything is looking great with the incision and the infection site. His Frey's Syndrome from having the gland removed still flares up when he eats, but that's really no big deal as long as we remember to tell people it's not an allergic reaction.<br />
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Here he is a week or so after surgery.</div>
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This is a month or so post-op.</div>
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And here he is just a couple days ago! The incision is almost invisible and the infection site continues to fade.</div>
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The lighting here exaggerates the depression left from the Parotid Gland they removed (that's what causes the Frey's Syndrome - a red blotch on his cheek from the salivary nerves that are still there, but are no longer connected to the gland.) I had intended to get a picture while it was flared up, but that didn't happen. </div>
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And here's his beautiful smile! As I have said before, we are beyond thankful that the surgeon and his amazing team were able to remove the infection without damaging the facial nerve. </div>
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Every month or so, I get a comment or an email from another mom whose child has been diagnosed with this. While I am no expert, I remember wishing I knew another mom who had been through this to talk to or ask questions to. So if that's you, please don't hesitate to comment or send me an email at thoner02k @ yahoo . com. You can also read all my posts about Atypical Mycobacterium <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/search/label/Atypical%20Mycobacterial%20Infection">here</a>.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by! </div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-58081546744922863232014-11-30T18:12:00.003-06:002014-11-30T18:12:50.868-06:00Jude Laurence: 3 months old<br />
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Jude at 3 months:</div>
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Weight: 18 pounds</div>
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Length: 27 inches</div>
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Diaper Size: 2</div>
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Clothing Size: Carter's 6 month (but their 9 month onesies fit you fine, too) and a few 6-9 month things</div>
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Eating: Nursing 5 times a day, every 3-4 hours during the day</div>
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Looks like: You seem to have eyes like Ashton and a smile & chin like Ezra. Almost everyone thinks you look like Mommy and Grandpa Steve<br />
Nickname: JuderBug</div>
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At 9 weeks old you started sleeping through the night! I feed you around 8:00 PM and you fall asleep shortly after. We barely hear a peep out of you until 6:30-7:00 AM! </div>
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We took you to the Minnesota State Fair with our friends John & Rachel. You enjoyed riding around in your stroller and eyeing up all the food you will be able to try next year...especially Sweet Martha's Cookies! You went to your second cookout at the Peterson's for Labor Day and sat around your first campfire at Grandpa Steve & Grandma Roxie's.<br />
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You were baptized at our church by Pastor Dave and we had a yummy brunch at our house to celebrate.<br />
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We brought you to Duluth for Mommy's cousin's wedding. You were such a good boy in the van the whole way up and back. You also got to stay in your first hotel and see Lake Superior.<br />
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Love you more and more each day, JuderBug!</div>
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-29598512432322852162014-11-30T18:06:00.000-06:002014-11-30T18:06:30.386-06:00Stitch Fix #5 & #6Way back at the beginning of October, I got my 5th Fix. I went back to work a week later so blogging about it got put on the back burner. This week I got my 6th Fix so I am lumping them together in one post.<br />
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So, up first my October Fix...<br />
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These purple skinny jeans were a fabulous color. So fabulous in fact, that I already own a pair in this exact shade of purple...bummer!</div>
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The lighting was not good at all, but this was an awesome navy dress. It was a little too clingy around my tummy...which is "still squishy" according to one of my 3 year olds. If I was a year out from having Jude, instead of 3 months, I probably would have kept it.</div>
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This sweater was super soft and the color was great, but my rule for keeping Stitch Fix items is that they have to be perfect. Unfortunately, the chevron pattern is not in my Element, so this went back.</div>
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This sheer navy top was the keeper in my October fix. It's perfect for work and I loved the longer length.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahW-slczJmxN6o7Sfsd0MMN4Y3v_Ve8CX92XcuZAzuPt6I3wIx844xxt3CsvCcBeqplj-EYcgGBrSoKrX170oP7lXg0q75u1ku7ESIftFBEQEKBnd8yyXmR8C-R62uDyWzAY0jJqb_jjE/s1600/IMG_4331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahW-slczJmxN6o7Sfsd0MMN4Y3v_Ve8CX92XcuZAzuPt6I3wIx844xxt3CsvCcBeqplj-EYcgGBrSoKrX170oP7lXg0q75u1ku7ESIftFBEQEKBnd8yyXmR8C-R62uDyWzAY0jJqb_jjE/s1600/IMG_4331.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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This shiny silver bracelet was the last item in my Fix. Not something I would get a lot of wear out of so it went back.</div>
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Onto my 6th Fix...</div>
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I loved this sweater, both the navy and green colors are in my Element and it fit perfectly. But, there was a bit of angora in the material and it made me itch like crazy so this one had to so back.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgGnuH_ttxOMK_rTjm7YwdZKSF9zr81dB6uqn9wmsJj7JSegLzybgT5KnchsflfrtmzMBrHEOORHYkuGp4wvPG11PTKqn-7CYAg_lXRB2bwN_F0HvrlCVgA57rqUZafER4dFE0T1vdYpw/s1600/IMG_4947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgGnuH_ttxOMK_rTjm7YwdZKSF9zr81dB6uqn9wmsJj7JSegLzybgT5KnchsflfrtmzMBrHEOORHYkuGp4wvPG11PTKqn-7CYAg_lXRB2bwN_F0HvrlCVgA57rqUZafER4dFE0T1vdYpw/s1600/IMG_4947.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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The sheer cream layer on the bottom of this sweater is a faux blouse. This was soft and comfy, but didn't really do anything for me.</div>
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This dolman top is perfect...a little wrinkly from being boxed up, but the color is fantastic and the material is super soft. This was a keeper!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTysuA86gAaKja5LaxZIeiptlNWQLb6IEfrp1unqf7IT8Xr6-cAyzL4qYk7z25gQTy2DZcUXBiV56jiod5LfCVrIgcD5nhNkd_UbEs-dN10xPQ30Ah9-YLG7GdTm3KpUn3bWt8CJiVYclt/s1600/IMG_4950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTysuA86gAaKja5LaxZIeiptlNWQLb6IEfrp1unqf7IT8Xr6-cAyzL4qYk7z25gQTy2DZcUXBiV56jiod5LfCVrIgcD5nhNkd_UbEs-dN10xPQ30Ah9-YLG7GdTm3KpUn3bWt8CJiVYclt/s1600/IMG_4950.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Oh, the dress that could have been wonderful! When I saw the raspberry and purple colors on this dress I was so excited...but then I saw the skirt. I don't wear black. For a minute I thought maybe it was a charcoal gray, but after holding it up to several other black items in my house, I came to terms with the fact that it was black. At that point I really hoped that it wouldn't fit so it would be easier to send back, Of course it fit like a glove and was so comfortable. I'm not lying when I say that I was tempted to cut off the skirt and sew a gray one on instead. It's on it's way back to California.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55cE3yXFzqIlxp1lC-MuevOUPZ4uWqGcha5UvAZX6T8c0ggNdMfovQhV7YtJFRtl3y5Qfg9-srO5bqZJ0yMRGxryRmSIdrktZcJv-XI_BcP4-JWRmpbu834S09gPyNEcUJ8mAmNcHJuJJ/s1600/IMG_4954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55cE3yXFzqIlxp1lC-MuevOUPZ4uWqGcha5UvAZX6T8c0ggNdMfovQhV7YtJFRtl3y5Qfg9-srO5bqZJ0yMRGxryRmSIdrktZcJv-XI_BcP4-JWRmpbu834S09gPyNEcUJ8mAmNcHJuJJ/s1600/IMG_4954.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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These green skinny jeans were great as well. Great color (sorry, bad picture!) and they fit really nicely, but when I walk around in them for a bit, they felt like they were starting to sag down and that just gets annoying. So they went back too. (I couldn't get my cute little helper to look at the camera.)</div>
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Want to try out Stitch Fix? If you sign up using my referral link I'll get a $25 credit and we can both get a fun Fix! <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3075423">https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3075423</a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-53126020370959136352014-09-29T16:25:00.002-05:002014-09-29T16:28:11.507-05:00Jude Laurence: 2 months old<br />
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Jude at 2 months:</div>
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Weight: 15 lbs. 8 oz</div>
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Length: 26 3/4 inches</div>
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Diaper Size: 2</div>
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Clothing Size: 3-6 month and Carter's 6 month</div>
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Eating: Nursing 7 times a day, every 3-4 hours during the day and once in the middle of the night</div>
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Looks like: You seem to have eyes like Ashton and a smile & chin like Ezra</div>
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We brought you to the Pierce County Fair this month. You slept a lot of the time we were there, but when you were awake you enjoyed riding in your stroller. You weren't too impressed with the parade, but you watched your brothers pick up a lot of candy.</div>
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Your Uncle Mitch married Ashley so you officially gained an Aunt and a cousin in the same day! You came with Mommy and Grandma Roxie to get our makeup done, then once we got to the church your Aunt Kylee took care of you while Mommy and Daddy took part in the wedding ceremony. Then we went to the reception and your Great Aunt Margo and Great Uncle Jeff watched you for quite awhile so Mommy and Daddy could enjoy dinner. After dancing with Mommy for a little bit, you napped with Kris Deiss. You were such a trooper the whole day!</div>
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Even though Mommy is not going back to work until October, we still went to set up her classroom and get things ready for her sub. You got your first ride on Grandpa Steve's golf cart - I think you are going to love that thing just as much as Ezra and Ashton do!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxsZvOREcqkZHzXkd9l8qR6MYzadcTuPb9WcwWeURqcr6HAFXJH5_cmLg2Ek5F10X_l34KrwOiPtWB5xcm3OI25HShLPFd5DC851OHuvhEtt128DH08x3RW95Q1MCPOiPxtUiJK2j4MLx/s1600/IMG_3691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxsZvOREcqkZHzXkd9l8qR6MYzadcTuPb9WcwWeURqcr6HAFXJH5_cmLg2Ek5F10X_l34KrwOiPtWB5xcm3OI25HShLPFd5DC851OHuvhEtt128DH08x3RW95Q1MCPOiPxtUiJK2j4MLx/s1600/IMG_3691.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-23361539508140464582014-09-01T15:16:00.001-05:002014-09-29T16:25:48.260-05:00Jude Laurence: 1 month oldSo I am already a month behind, but I am going to post an update on our new little guy each month. They grow and change so quickly and there are so many little things I want to remember!<br />
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Jude at 1 month:<br />
Weight: 12 lbs, 6 oz. - that's 2 pounds in a month!!<br />
Length: 24 inches<br />
Diaper Size: 1 (we skipped Newborns)<br />
Clothing Size: 0-3 month, and Carter's 3 month, some of it is already getting too small<br />
Eating: Nursing 8 times a day, usually every 3 hours, but sometimes you stretch it to 4+ hours over night and cluster feed in the evening<br />
Looks like: I still think you look like a good mix of your brothers, the Thoner genes seem to be strong in you!<br />
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You are a noisy little guy - always grunting whether you are awake or asleep! Your big brothers have a hard time leaving you alone. They always want to touch you, kiss you, hug you and hold you, but they aren't always gentle about it. It's a good thing God made you big so they can't beat you up too much! Your naps often get cut short because one of them makes a loud noise or comes over to pester you if you are napping in your swing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ub9-j58mwqwmTV-Cy5HCMm1YUQxyni3xE6MWfcsfQUdJ22XWUV3KbGJXWjY22dzyGRS1INmg4cfE7PKE0FxfUqLrUE2m6KIoh8DKrxyaD5je9vBto8YvIIc14tf9XVfn8YEB6dL5lHHi/s1600/IMG_3247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ub9-j58mwqwmTV-Cy5HCMm1YUQxyni3xE6MWfcsfQUdJ22XWUV3KbGJXWjY22dzyGRS1INmg4cfE7PKE0FxfUqLrUE2m6KIoh8DKrxyaD5je9vBto8YvIIc14tf9XVfn8YEB6dL5lHHi/s1600/IMG_3247.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a>You started to smile around 3 1/2 weeks old and now you smile at us a lot...until Mom brings out the camera! You have adorable dimples. Bath time is your favorite! We have to keep your whale tub in the big bath tub because you kick and splash so much!<br />
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We celebrated your first 4th of July at Lowell and Carol Peterson's and at The Rush. You slept through the fireworks! At Peterson's your tank took first place for distance by a long shot! Mommy and Grandma Roxie took you to the Mall of America for the first time. We were shopping for clothes and shoes for Uncle Mitchell's wedding. We found you a sweet little outfit at Janie & Jack, but Mommy didn't have any luck finding shoes for her wide feet!<br />
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Family Picture at Vino in the Valley</div>
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<br />Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-27174349828911669402014-07-31T14:12:00.000-05:002014-07-31T14:52:07.412-05:00Stitch Fix #4I took a break from Stitch Fix while I was pregnant, however, I have since read a few blogs from ladies who have continued to get them even with a growing baby bump and they have gotten some great pieces that work even though Stitch Fix doesn't actually carry maternity clothes.<div>
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You can see my previous 3 Fixes <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/search/label/Stitch%20Fix">here</a>.<br /><div>
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So as you may or may not remember, I am a WATER. Since I know my Element, there are many colors and patterns that I won't wear because they just don't work for me - they might overwhelm me, wash me out, etc... It certainly makes getting a Fix interesting, but I keep my Pinterest board filled with styles and colors that do work for me so that my stylist can see what I am going for. </div>
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Tiffani was my stylist this time, and I thought she did a pretty good job picking things for me. I will leave her some feedback when I check out to help her more next time around. I will start with showing you the worst and work towards the best...</div>
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(I feel like I am always apologizing for my pictures. Today, I had to take them on our back deck, which is kind of a mess, and I didn't have time to clean it up...all 3 boys were sleeping at the same, so I had to get the pictures fast because that never lasts long!)</div>
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Item #1: Whistler Graphic Print Button Front Blouse</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGReVAQUofBHtoKB0JO6637sIDiPXssALw1_jG5grhhuu0Txn-6gFgxGKT1DGS_edzcANjgWdFgJn19R5omKjEGSiowPFd12cA4gRgamQzO5JIh3eCqb02xjNLttk3IZSa62GgQXjYLwUP/s1600/IMG_3280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGReVAQUofBHtoKB0JO6637sIDiPXssALw1_jG5grhhuu0Txn-6gFgxGKT1DGS_edzcANjgWdFgJn19R5omKjEGSiowPFd12cA4gRgamQzO5JIh3eCqb02xjNLttk3IZSa62GgQXjYLwUP/s1600/IMG_3280.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Graphic print is not really my thing, and doesn't work for my Element either. So this was a definite no.</div>
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Item #2: Laural Sleeveless Geo Print Maxi Dress<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjuhWIM9T7f8jw_msOkDlYNO9xjdN4MLJE-aDv3DwLb8QgW7FAeBEmTViM5O2MBkr8a_wUlhf3ocPGNLJxAaOPhp4XZzAHZzW4RUmOpO6kB0boejvYOHddzPJfZkxqL8ylZ6RZkyC_hDJ/s1600/IMG_3285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjuhWIM9T7f8jw_msOkDlYNO9xjdN4MLJE-aDv3DwLb8QgW7FAeBEmTViM5O2MBkr8a_wUlhf3ocPGNLJxAaOPhp4XZzAHZzW4RUmOpO6kB0boejvYOHddzPJfZkxqL8ylZ6RZkyC_hDJ/s1600/IMG_3285.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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This dress is super soft and comfortable, but the print was not my thing and it's too short. So this will be going back too. If it was longer and a solid color in my Element, I totally would have kept it!</div>
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Item #3: Clea Colorblock Maxi Dress</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZiGrhA4DJZJEPt3TTxW7gqr-Es9LEFy5McfzO-uI_S1cRzlRUHE_aChSaFP499UB9kXWkKU2-UFHUXseepG0thfI36kiyQ10MkA2Ic6dH_lOa9KhN6A7dKU8mAmccFMX9rsv7gNHnVF5/s1600/IMG_3286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZiGrhA4DJZJEPt3TTxW7gqr-Es9LEFy5McfzO-uI_S1cRzlRUHE_aChSaFP499UB9kXWkKU2-UFHUXseepG0thfI36kiyQ10MkA2Ic6dH_lOa9KhN6A7dKU8mAmccFMX9rsv7gNHnVF5/s1600/IMG_3286.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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The length of this maxi was better, but that cream color fabric is really throwing me off. The purplish/blue color was fantastic though! Again, this was very comfortable, but it will be going back mostly because of that cream color. (It's weird, right??)</div>
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Item #4: Rylin Pintuck Detailed Silk Blouse<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGQ3-daQu_2tLV6OlmsKL6mSCJknz_zHGKQPoGGI5OnAa5heJMGG-hs93jLj5h81r6ll3AivHnPoD5gDkCVGpKvdABLieUVmCXLxhuhpdPQwdCj0P5-0d6O8T1mPAxZYMM3BQ3LU-mjhU/s1600/IMG_3281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGQ3-daQu_2tLV6OlmsKL6mSCJknz_zHGKQPoGGI5OnAa5heJMGG-hs93jLj5h81r6ll3AivHnPoD5gDkCVGpKvdABLieUVmCXLxhuhpdPQwdCj0P5-0d6O8T1mPAxZYMM3BQ3LU-mjhU/s1600/IMG_3281.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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The color of this shirt is a little deeper purple in real life and it is gorgeous! It also looks boxy in this picture, but it's really not. I'm on the fence about this one. I really like it, but I'm not going back to work until October and I don't know how often I will have a reason to wear a silk blouse before that...I have a feeling silk and spit up don't work well together!</div>
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Item #5: Sam Hi-Lo Short Sleeve Tee</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEZPacn_R1xSWejzL9qRUkfpin0WHz5D0622oRsPyyGGGPWJKCB2GVirByhk4boVKZCUUI65SnRWOs_qvOKDXfAuyeXopV_mewfOYRP0OxxHBG1tPDqU3yFC3JH-K8mXESGcFO84gjSNR/s1600/IMG_3284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaEZPacn_R1xSWejzL9qRUkfpin0WHz5D0622oRsPyyGGGPWJKCB2GVirByhk4boVKZCUUI65SnRWOs_qvOKDXfAuyeXopV_mewfOYRP0OxxHBG1tPDqU3yFC3JH-K8mXESGcFO84gjSNR/s1600/IMG_3284.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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This shirt is so comfortable! The color and hi-lo hem are great. I usually find the "hi" hem of hi-lo shirts to be too short for me, but this one was perfect. It's being added to my closet for sure.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #191919; line-height: 18px;">Want to try Stitch Fix yourself? If you decide to do it, I would love it if you signed up through my referral code</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #191919; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #191919; line-height: 18px;">so I can get a little credit towards my next Fix! Just sign up through this link..</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #191919; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">.</span><a href="http://mandrillapp.com/track/click.php?u=3541274&id=b3fb180894924bc5accb333fa957fb3a&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstitchfix.com%2Fsign_up%3Freferrer_id%3D3075423&url_id=9d2040ba72e4fb9ca8dd6ceb9018dfda25835cd0">http://stitchfix.com/sign_up?referrer_id=3075423</a> </div>
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Hope you are having a wonderful summer! Thanks for stopping by!<br />
~Anika<br />
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-82835486715112675362014-07-31T13:35:00.002-05:002014-07-31T14:52:21.214-05:00Introducing JudeWe welcomed our 3rd son into the world on June 27th. We are so in love with our little Jude! However, he's not so little! He weighed 10 pounds, 6 ounces and was 21.5 inches long. We were all a bit surprised by his size, but it's probably a good thing since he has two big brothers who would literally love him to pieces if I wasn't around to rescue him!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEHin-7WdC73NCdKb69kvXwzvZqla-Lfuym4SOfcXJjziQ2TaC1TKIxYs69bV9crrSYaF6jBnn7tF5ZEFhiwoTMEwRp9GEFhxlqsYnLTBhogO_hqHqvz7HKJBX8DlNgqFKbEdAZbQaait/s1600/Jude-Jude-0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEHin-7WdC73NCdKb69kvXwzvZqla-Lfuym4SOfcXJjziQ2TaC1TKIxYs69bV9crrSYaF6jBnn7tF5ZEFhiwoTMEwRp9GEFhxlqsYnLTBhogO_hqHqvz7HKJBX8DlNgqFKbEdAZbQaait/s1600/Jude-Jude-0001.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNbhcrbdCqmSL904U6D7Pox0YCXY38uDVqsbrLoV2_Vb4FEPsQNMNpJExOomQMSdyGasEGoVv68ZCPbtkgWZe0jbgSsozEHqv2CU9qPqFyrYuKNH5lLwtdQOjQcooDYWneJPVvhlYaui5u/s1600/Jude-Jude-0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNbhcrbdCqmSL904U6D7Pox0YCXY38uDVqsbrLoV2_Vb4FEPsQNMNpJExOomQMSdyGasEGoVv68ZCPbtkgWZe0jbgSsozEHqv2CU9qPqFyrYuKNH5lLwtdQOjQcooDYWneJPVvhlYaui5u/s1600/Jude-Jude-0005.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWbcr6qSf_fZeyqPRfe4nueBfervJ1S7bz0z1oNI-Zpy12Tw07kiHFAxHgD9Ih0mNXOpidqbZrLqS3OIgEn9HN56L6vHiQv98d0dynY_HH2Bt9n9pSXuvstjtBI6q9mryVTq26L8iSWas/s1600/Jude-Jude-0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWbcr6qSf_fZeyqPRfe4nueBfervJ1S7bz0z1oNI-Zpy12Tw07kiHFAxHgD9Ih0mNXOpidqbZrLqS3OIgEn9HN56L6vHiQv98d0dynY_HH2Bt9n9pSXuvstjtBI6q9mryVTq26L8iSWas/s1600/Jude-Jude-0007.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwjfPgGdkB18OR-83GJvLwRwEUgKI9E4I9WSSLA9YFCkRUMwZkGMIZmeQZhR0LJAb1jPu6e7sW0rnD1uMUdUAdl7CKapTR7_APLwkBu8028VuBPu0VnlbQQGzaSNFuwORxrDOxKJTPUlP/s1600/Jude-Jude-0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwjfPgGdkB18OR-83GJvLwRwEUgKI9E4I9WSSLA9YFCkRUMwZkGMIZmeQZhR0LJAb1jPu6e7sW0rnD1uMUdUAdl7CKapTR7_APLwkBu8028VuBPu0VnlbQQGzaSNFuwORxrDOxKJTPUlP/s1600/Jude-Jude-0009.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
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Can't believe it's taken me so long to introduce him to all of you! I will be back with more pictures soon!</div>
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~Anika</div>
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-78372692351753728112014-06-16T14:48:00.000-05:002014-06-18T14:30:03.581-05:00Is Baby #3 a Boy or a Girl?<br />
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<b>When I was expecting the boys, I wrote a post about Old Wives Tales to see what ended up being true for me. I have been meaning to do the same with this pregnancy, but just haven't had a chance. So, since we only have 11 day (or less) until we meet this new Baby, I figured I better get it done! Here are the same Old Wives Tales I used when I was pregnant with the boys...</b></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"></span></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Heart Rate - </span></i></strong><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If the baby’s heart rate is above 140 bpm, it is said that the baby will be a girl. If it is under 140 bpm, then it will be a boy.</span></i></div>
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Baby's heart rate has always been above 140. Usually somewhere between 140 and 150. </div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Shape of Belly - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you are carrying high with a big, round belly, you are having a girl. If you are carrying low with a smaller belly that sticks straight out, it’s a boy.</span></i></span></strong></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I have had people tell me I am carrying high and people tell me I am carrying low. I'm really not sure. Aside from being smaller than I was with the boys, I feel like I am carrying about the same as I did with them...we will call it right in the middle and sticking straight out.</span></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Shape of Mom’s Face - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When your face gets fuller and rounder when pregnant, it means you’re going to have a girl. If your face is long and narrow, it’s a boy.</span></i></span></strong></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Again, no change in the shape of my face this time around.</span></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale : Key Test - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This test involves a key. If you pick up a key at the top (the roundest part), you are going to have a boy. If you pick up the key at the bottom (smallest part), you are going to have a girl. If you happen to grab the key in the middle, congrats, it’s twins!</span></i></span></strong></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So I had to leave this one in the mix because I always grab a key by the middle. :) But, we do know it's only 1 this time!</span></span></strong></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Mayan Tale - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The Mayan tale adds the mothers age at conception and the year of conception. If the result is a even number then mom is having a girl. If the result is an odd number then a boy is on the way!</span></i></span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">29 + 2013 = 2042, even = girl</span></span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Acne - </span></i></strong><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you have acne while pregnant, it’s a girl. It’s thought that acne during pregnancy is caused by the extra hormones.</span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Yup...strange break outs...more so than I remember with the boys. Often around my hairline and behind my ears. Lately it's been my chin.</span></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Cravings - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">People believe that if you are craving salty foods while pregnant, you can count on having a boy. If you crave sweets, fruit, and orange juice, you are having a little girl.</span></i></span></strong></div>
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Like last time, no specific cravings...just lots of what I usually like...sweets!</div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Skin under Left Eye - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The eye test is when a “V” or “branches” appear when you pull down the skin under your left eye. If you see a “V” or “branches” in the white part, you’re having a girl.</span></i></span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Still no "V" or "branches" to speak of, just one squiggly line.</span></span></strong></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Dream of Gender of Baby - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you have dreams that you are having a boy, you will have a girl. If you dream about having a girl, it will be a boy. Dreams show the opposite of what you are having.</span></i></span></strong></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I have had 2 dreams about having a girl. </span></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Side You Most Rest On - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If a pregnant woman prefers to lay on her left side, she’s having a boy. If she prefers resting on her right side, she’s having a girl.</span></i></span></strong></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I prefer my right side.</span></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Morning Sickness - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you had a smooth pregnancy with no morning sickness, it’s a boy. If you were sick or felt really nauseous during your pregnancy, count on a girl.</span></i></span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I didn't really have morning sickness this time around either, but I realized I was pregnant after getting nauseous 3 afternoons in a row. All it took was a quick snack and some water and I felt better. After those 3 days, I just made sure to have a snack before I started feeling yucky.</span></span></strong></div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Old Wives Tale: Hair on Legs - </span></i></strong><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If the hair on your legs has been growing at record speeds, you might be having a boy.</span></i></span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1.571em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My leg hair barely grows these days. I haven't shaved in 5 days, but my legs are still smooth.</span></span></strong></div>
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So, there you go. What are your thoughts this time? I should also add that Ashton (one of our boys) has been insisting that it's a girl! We will see if he has any brotherly intuition! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9VVpd2idbSzgBjU7TF6FOcWTiIyW72JSH5dJhJTobGFsNvMgcJNGmkzDx7szeXNAO-hX-i0s7n7P98Pp9LLmQY2lqDO3qZRQjY0nB-Mp14oYnFuNmQJU0SYulW5xkBUuTs5hx6yi1c5x/s1600/Family_07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9VVpd2idbSzgBjU7TF6FOcWTiIyW72JSH5dJhJTobGFsNvMgcJNGmkzDx7szeXNAO-hX-i0s7n7P98Pp9LLmQY2lqDO3qZRQjY0nB-Mp14oYnFuNmQJU0SYulW5xkBUuTs5hx6yi1c5x/s1600/Family_07.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
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Here's a picture from some recent family pictures we had taken. Not the best "bump" picture, but it will have to do! (Poor baby #3 isn't getting the weekly bump pictures like the boys did!)</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-10635354748160425112014-02-11T16:57:00.002-06:002014-02-11T16:57:55.315-06:0020 weeks...Halfway There!Yesterday we had our 20 week ultrasound. Baby was a bit of a showoff - scratching it's forehead and nose, and wiggling around quite a bit. Overall measurements put Baby in the 73rd percentile...weighing in around 12 ounces. The heart rate ranged from 145-150 bpm. The technician also noted that Baby has long toes; Daddy's toes are ridiculously long too. :)<div>
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While we don't want to find out the gender until Baby is born, I do enjoy guessing based on the many Old Wives Tales that exist. Something I read recently said that if the placenta is on the right it's a girl and if it's on the left it's a boy. So I asked the technician...mine is posterior, or smack dab in the back...so that didn't help at all, but it does explain why I felt so much movement early on.</div>
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Here is Baby scratching its nose. We also got a short video of this...so fun!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkuurOtvPjwTjgX8zCcBzN1dj9HJZRSc7E0-5VG5pc6sf4EYWrIoRf58o6gBkl0xZV7_braLGz_M7_02zdNy3DutzXJBuN1JYZSLK6s70rkCWIYiJ_aoIY6KbIIDSB2d5x0dQjFN_dDQg/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20140210130502350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkuurOtvPjwTjgX8zCcBzN1dj9HJZRSc7E0-5VG5pc6sf4EYWrIoRf58o6gBkl0xZV7_braLGz_M7_02zdNy3DutzXJBuN1JYZSLK6s70rkCWIYiJ_aoIY6KbIIDSB2d5x0dQjFN_dDQg/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20140210130502350.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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A good look at those long toes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-946Wj_7Titx1Mxhh5KFWrw8SzQhG9QzQAskZwW6V1azvM_oGgyBCuFZ7KxQqycbo2fKK6SL1ZjGrp7pMaSVK2RmWTI2TSHSdrT0cgAsu7_QILm4_gMSGMiPX1gnmYuUHCTZugrZ27lQ3/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20140210125155237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-946Wj_7Titx1Mxhh5KFWrw8SzQhG9QzQAskZwW6V1azvM_oGgyBCuFZ7KxQqycbo2fKK6SL1ZjGrp7pMaSVK2RmWTI2TSHSdrT0cgAsu7_QILm4_gMSGMiPX1gnmYuUHCTZugrZ27lQ3/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20140210125155237.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here is a great profile shot...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVib6njxjQpcv9DMDYXofZ4dkOaQKmEtvRhAAOAmuVr0k69a0K_LAxgMBCcZ3snLU_pgPNVHpujrq1-49V-yYdTLTsR4kRsqLW0ibaiSKe55XWHfZ5rSJXct4NZmW2hhvsJBex-ixSjGxG/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20140210130510567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVib6njxjQpcv9DMDYXofZ4dkOaQKmEtvRhAAOAmuVr0k69a0K_LAxgMBCcZ3snLU_pgPNVHpujrq1-49V-yYdTLTsR4kRsqLW0ibaiSKe55XWHfZ5rSJXct4NZmW2hhvsJBex-ixSjGxG/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20140210130510567.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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For comparison, here is Ezra's profile at 20 weeks...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmIQAoUOPny4grRyQEWm31rlzQLhusK5cX8_nqyGNhLs9MMVF7_q0AKqkcVqs-lR0_ZWM3qdgywuoP8tDpDBIClopcf9OzaHRUd9meTB_KaIQ8WxDjGcfF20vt_dM9tNs4JhVqCn8Duzg/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20101215164223961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmIQAoUOPny4grRyQEWm31rlzQLhusK5cX8_nqyGNhLs9MMVF7_q0AKqkcVqs-lR0_ZWM3qdgywuoP8tDpDBIClopcf9OzaHRUd9meTB_KaIQ8WxDjGcfF20vt_dM9tNs4JhVqCn8Duzg/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20101215164223961.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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...and here is Ashton's profile at 20 weeks. (He was always wiggling so this was the best we got!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8yKJqMIIKNGXnFFviLePoh4NGvDtBSvEO-WA344ofOOkxBg0Rxq-_fffJKbERwGdO42paoA3EeA3YFoq2jZ3_mIyPpGONVxS6jS_ikq95shoPur4iWZ1Pq1ubZsIRL5Y35j4uatMGTu5/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20101215165619566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8yKJqMIIKNGXnFFviLePoh4NGvDtBSvEO-WA344ofOOkxBg0Rxq-_fffJKbERwGdO42paoA3EeA3YFoq2jZ3_mIyPpGONVxS6jS_ikq95shoPur4iWZ1Pq1ubZsIRL5Y35j4uatMGTu5/s1600/BORNERANIKAM20101215165619566.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hard to believe we are already halfway through this pregnancy! Praying the last half is as easy as the first half!<br />
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~AnikaAnikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-85680153078266272152014-01-28T10:50:00.001-06:002015-01-22T22:26:26.508-06:00Two Years Post-Op UpdateTwo Years! It's been two years since Ezra had surgery to remove the atypical mycobacterial infection that had settled around the facial nerve along the right side of his jaw. He is doing great; both the incision and the spot where the infection was are continuing to heal nicely.<br />
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You can see the faint line of the incision along the front of his ear, then under his earlobe and towards his chin...it stops about halfway between his ear and chin. There is still a slight depression from the gland they removed above the end of the incision; the doctor said that because of how young he was this should completely go away. He developed Frey's Syndrome because they removed that gland; he had just had a glass of apple juice before I took this picture, so the redness you see on his cheek is the effect of the Frey's Syndrome - it comes and goes with varying intensity depending on what he eats...fruit and candy cause a stronger reaction. It doesn't hurt him at all, we just have to make sure anyone who takes care of him knows it isn't an allergic reaction!</div>
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The actual spot where the infection was is in such a hard place to get a picture of. You can kind of see it here...right where his shirt, neck and jawline meet. Over the last few months we have really noticed it change from red to a light pinkish color. His doctor said we could bring him back for more surgery if we didn't like the way it healed up, but it seem so unnecessary to put a child through cosmetic surgery when it is something that very few people notice. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrbO6P8l_GLECjWaxdjc7jxx5YbTiUoGm347IgJTt0xJaOPIggJy0EmOi0DF0JdySgOGQ_XjaOSUtoIKW0r3JuUKqN18lDaiimgEIzP5F6nGwoMUhCScAyaHReq_kwuMWSgKt8GAYerTSW/s1600/IMG_1781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrbO6P8l_GLECjWaxdjc7jxx5YbTiUoGm347IgJTt0xJaOPIggJy0EmOi0DF0JdySgOGQ_XjaOSUtoIKW0r3JuUKqN18lDaiimgEIzP5F6nGwoMUhCScAyaHReq_kwuMWSgKt8GAYerTSW/s1600/IMG_1781.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ezra also had a "crooked smile" for a couple months after surgery due to the facial nerve being disturbed, but there are no signs of that now! Just a mischievous grin and twinkling eyes!</div>
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Last night we wanted to celebrate Two Years Post-Op, but it has been so cold here (cold enough for school to be closed the last 2 days!) that we decided to just stay in and have a little ice cream rather than venture out for a treat!<br />
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If you have more questions about our experience with Atypical Mycobacterium, please leave a comment or email me at thoner02k @ yahoo . com<thoner02k at="" com="" dot="" yahoo="">. You can read all my posts related to this <a href="http://www.anikamarie.blogspot.com/search/label/Atypical%20Mycobacterial%20Infection">here</a>.</thoner02k></div>
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Hope it is warmer where you are than it is here! Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-24448274373027501052013-12-28T19:27:00.000-06:002013-12-28T19:28:06.441-06:00I have a really good excuse!!It's been pretty quiet around here for a couple months, but this time I have a good excuse...<div>
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It could be that I am just busy taking care of the cutest toddlers you have ever seen. Which is true, but it's not my excuse.</div>
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It could be that my husband took a new job this fall and is working 2nd shift, so I am on my own in the evening with said cute toddlers. Which is true, but it's not my excuse.</div>
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Today, my excuse is the size of a lemon...</div>
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We are expecting Baby #3 in June! (Yes, just #3...not #3 & #4.) I don't remember being overly tired when I was pregnant with the boys, but I have been this time. Possibly the combination of taking care of two toddler plus being pregnant??? Anyway, thought I would let anyone who is still reading know that I am alive and well! </div>
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Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and that your 2014 is filled with much love and happiness!</div>
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~Anika</div>
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-58875864860465631422013-10-20T15:48:00.000-05:002013-10-20T15:48:20.521-05:00Stitch Fix #3After receiving some referral credit from a friend who signed up for Stitch Fix, I decided it was time to get another Fix! Here's what I got this time...I'll start with the not-so-great things and work my way towards the better pieces!<br />
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Item #1: Toulouse Collared Wrap Dress<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8Y_-qQ3sAkLSB-rRnr8QDWIwHYI7TBCVJ_a0xXvJYDZCWRB_oRMh_J4gk-TKAkQ9fmLIZI2moiMXcNS7_46WBG1vjPezqQz9FxpXfMnM6S73USaA3GfJmQk6wrRpQ99OXp3BgRdvwuwn/s1600/IMG_1011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8Y_-qQ3sAkLSB-rRnr8QDWIwHYI7TBCVJ_a0xXvJYDZCWRB_oRMh_J4gk-TKAkQ9fmLIZI2moiMXcNS7_46WBG1vjPezqQz9FxpXfMnM6S73USaA3GfJmQk6wrRpQ99OXp3BgRdvwuwn/s640/IMG_1011.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
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Wow! That is one red dress. True red is obviously not a WATER color! While I like the idea of this dress, even if it was a different color, I wouldn't be able to wear it to work (too short) and my boys would probably pull the wrap skirt open all the time too. Status: Returned</div>
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Item #2: Elsa Chevron Arrow Bib Necklace</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwbw-gvuQy-b8vjZOppQ16oEwqV07HFcawaZz1tsTE5MMqGpt5hYpiOH_dkDYY9gJKEAGibV8Wxk9zL27JpdNV_DxOhWBv-3wC2T_JNIrjCRZaUzIdG6TX7LvTrRAZQZcSv3t_aKq0-Iv/s1600/IMG_1009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwbw-gvuQy-b8vjZOppQ16oEwqV07HFcawaZz1tsTE5MMqGpt5hYpiOH_dkDYY9gJKEAGibV8Wxk9zL27JpdNV_DxOhWBv-3wC2T_JNIrjCRZaUzIdG6TX7LvTrRAZQZcSv3t_aKq0-Iv/s320/IMG_1009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This just wasn't something I see myself wearing. Too shiny and too pointy for my taste. Status: Returned</div>
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Item #3: Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwv4XWCuyO4BLE1hvAPYGdPdXGtatD0xfrHV_M7z4FFPRpbtqFypFJOiapDTYyzjIzTe1QsQY9u1gKEmM4PcpdnsYFXNiVh3SHhBcmC7fh_AAXUGMbQWgbYQ9zruJIsDhR7zIuOeT0Auy/s1600/IMG_1007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwv4XWCuyO4BLE1hvAPYGdPdXGtatD0xfrHV_M7z4FFPRpbtqFypFJOiapDTYyzjIzTe1QsQY9u1gKEmM4PcpdnsYFXNiVh3SHhBcmC7fh_AAXUGMbQWgbYQ9zruJIsDhR7zIuOeT0Auy/s640/IMG_1007.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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The color of this shirt was great (not quite as bright as it looks here), but the sleeves hit me at an awkward spot. Status: Returned</div>
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Item #4: Breyson Split-Neck Tab-Sleeve Knit Top</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxkSKEwjjtcqNyxfMgZnS_ErzboTSyjrbt0p7WakEPE4VGKAXtghvzmrtWFGptUiv1DWyTtayI6DZ8hUHLMnjq8szQdPm-KcalzhOeH2Kd8C_Q1PrkUHDLUq1r_Ly4wrjqtVmuf6bjtiG/s1600/IMG_1008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxkSKEwjjtcqNyxfMgZnS_ErzboTSyjrbt0p7WakEPE4VGKAXtghvzmrtWFGptUiv1DWyTtayI6DZ8hUHLMnjq8szQdPm-KcalzhOeH2Kd8C_Q1PrkUHDLUq1r_Ly4wrjqtVmuf6bjtiG/s640/IMG_1008.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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First of all, this shirt isn't not ombre, it was solid gray, I am not sure why it looks like it's black on the bottom here, because it doesn't in iPhoto, anyway...I loved this shirt, it was super soft and comfy, yet it had enough details so it wasn't boring, BUT it was $58. And I just couldn't bring myself to spend almost $60 on a glorified long-sleeved t-shirt. Status: Returned (reluctantly)</div>
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Item #5: Abrianna Long-sleeve Knit Cardigan<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoSuoex3IuLBZBgn4K3so35K4yrBrt9rpevKKHyYOeu-eGXB9_7nZq-e3T-AFcPCQoxdmY3abVkwy6J5iWzIfNLWUU5gtSOsPDLLCT3CYk_U6JzAADf8fpf7bg6KStsGbznRBlNZWpkyA/s1600/IMG_1005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoSuoex3IuLBZBgn4K3so35K4yrBrt9rpevKKHyYOeu-eGXB9_7nZq-e3T-AFcPCQoxdmY3abVkwy6J5iWzIfNLWUU5gtSOsPDLLCT3CYk_U6JzAADf8fpf7bg6KStsGbznRBlNZWpkyA/s640/IMG_1005.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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I LOVE this cardigan! I have a bunch of cardigans, but nothing this color. It's so pretty and soft and I love the long, flowy length. (I was interrupting my boys morning cartoons while taking this picture!) Status: Kept!!</div>
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So, that was my Third Fix! You can see my First Fix <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/2013/08/stitch-fix-1.html">here</a> and my Second Fix <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/2013/08/stitch-fix-2.html">here</a>. If you decide to give Stitch Fix a try, I would love it if you used my Referral Link so I can earn some more credit! Just click on this link to sign up...https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3075423</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-32252766502972646002013-08-30T08:30:00.000-05:002013-08-30T08:31:07.513-05:00Stitch Fix #2After leaving a lot of feedback regarding my <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/2013/08/stitch-fix-1.html">First Fix</a>, I decided to give Stitch Fix another chance. I tried to be even more specific about the colors that I wanted, and I think my stylist, Addie, did a great job! <div>
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Never heard of Stitch Fix? It's an online personal styling company. You fill out a Style Profile, schedule a Fix for a $20 styling fee, and they send you 5 items. You try them on, decide what to keep, return the rest in a pre-paid mailer, and apply the $20 styling fee to whatever you decide to keep.<br /><div>
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I was anxious to open my box, but when I saw this, I knew I would be able to add something to my closet!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi4-sm2AjJaCOPcQxmQBjhDRdBzRnsT9QaKm88f7mWkL11ZfLuP1Jd1m_yPu5wwukC_Rt-JMbjGQl292uqWNO738LcKONrjhTqxtCUpvjnOC_-XOGMvNa3fYA6Q73cwsUTG-e6mg0tWYZc/s1600/IMG_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi4-sm2AjJaCOPcQxmQBjhDRdBzRnsT9QaKm88f7mWkL11ZfLuP1Jd1m_yPu5wwukC_Rt-JMbjGQl292uqWNO738LcKONrjhTqxtCUpvjnOC_-XOGMvNa3fYA6Q73cwsUTG-e6mg0tWYZc/s640/IMG_0722.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Item #1: Treena Space-Dye Sweater<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOt-fTeoBs6DRnzNk-u_Kudix7ggti7g9Lj7oKqT8lD626kZ9olAiJDaF_EWcZhWslCbEndLMR6qHI7SSc_gqBG3HLwZxCHR2CStl078jdTlCyGSy8U4JelvW7cfqmugAHk9bj6jKAYg8/s1600/IMG_0726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOt-fTeoBs6DRnzNk-u_Kudix7ggti7g9Lj7oKqT8lD626kZ9olAiJDaF_EWcZhWslCbEndLMR6qHI7SSc_gqBG3HLwZxCHR2CStl078jdTlCyGSy8U4JelvW7cfqmugAHk9bj6jKAYg8/s400/IMG_0726.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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This wasn't awful, but it just kind of hung there. For $68, I need a sweater to do a little more for me than that! I paired it with my new plum skinnies from American Eagle though...they are so soft and comfy! (Ashton just couldn't resist modeling with me!) Status: Returned</div>
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Item #2: Melville Front Pleat Button-Up Blouse </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0FyQjOU_4CeHf3yY87z6qvxDf3E1coiu3jp0JJvrpCvvoBjEO6fPRzTa3NYb9lJ6PW2fJ7LEBrgd2ChK4a9uVuImx4t54Cv1Taa4L0Ntm2H9110mWc6QTv201lefCcQF_LnegmHkC1V-/s1600/IMG_0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0FyQjOU_4CeHf3yY87z6qvxDf3E1coiu3jp0JJvrpCvvoBjEO6fPRzTa3NYb9lJ6PW2fJ7LEBrgd2ChK4a9uVuImx4t54Cv1Taa4L0Ntm2H9110mWc6QTv201lefCcQF_LnegmHkC1V-/s320/IMG_0727.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I wanted to love this, but it just didn't work. The color is so pretty; I loved the sleeves, but it just didn't give me any shape. Also, the loops for the buttons were so tight that I had to pull it over my head because I couldn't get the buttons undone and the bottom button was above my belly button, which was just weird to me. (The necklace I have on was from my first fix!) Status: Returned</div>
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Item #3: Ballario Ruched Side Longsleeve Top </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrw0_u1h9Dqa4RS8bJ0xo-thJW1PlDKIYVeLAcZDYKfo5ATIMeaeDHcYJ0UCXJD_R7GMbjB8LfKRZYwYsIVWTxW2XPNJfFhcrHaKd1ZlLG0BGrcMCv5zDjJQePh4HcIvMrBLACpCMgrLi4/s1600/IMG_0730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrw0_u1h9Dqa4RS8bJ0xo-thJW1PlDKIYVeLAcZDYKfo5ATIMeaeDHcYJ0UCXJD_R7GMbjB8LfKRZYwYsIVWTxW2XPNJfFhcrHaKd1ZlLG0BGrcMCv5zDjJQePh4HcIvMrBLACpCMgrLi4/s320/IMG_0730.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I loved the style of this shirt, but it was made from a sheer meshy material that made me feel itchy (that's another "Water" thing.) I was also worried that it would snag easily, especially with 2 toddlers always climbing around on me and 38 preschoolers I will be in contact with everyday! Status: Returned</div>
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Item #4: Batik Dot Scarf<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhOy0aKcZ2v_c5N0_FkEOqiPYEu7ayCtnTjr03GzTXH4rClVRRuVW3N1_fXiLbigsyKG46QcK5j3ItyrDiJpVsVOY2nvs2_57pZtdSdQI96otOgNVUS3hAPVFCxqqi-xCZb9lMbl6IiGM/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhOy0aKcZ2v_c5N0_FkEOqiPYEu7ayCtnTjr03GzTXH4rClVRRuVW3N1_fXiLbigsyKG46QcK5j3ItyrDiJpVsVOY2nvs2_57pZtdSdQI96otOgNVUS3hAPVFCxqqi-xCZb9lMbl6IiGM/s320/IMG_0732.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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My husband was ready to get back into our air conditioned house, so I just threw this scarf on quick. Anyway, I don't do white, and I am not a polka-dot kind of girl...at least not on my clothing, so this was a no. It was also $48, which is way more than I am willing to spend on a scarf. Status: Returned</div>
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Item #5: Sadie Cowl Neck Jersey Tank</div>
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It was getting dark out, so the flash kicked in on the camera, but the color of this tank is fantastic! Once I figured out how to put it on...it is a regular tank with an extra draped layer that is only attached at the shoulders so it looks confusing...I also loved how soft the fabric was and how it fit. Status: Kept! And I am planning to wear it this weekend while it is still ridiculously hot and humid here in Western Wisconsin!</div>
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That was my second fix...so much better that the first! Want to try Stitch Fix? If you decide to do it, I would love it if you signed up through my <a href="http://stitchfix.com/sign_up?referrer_id=3075423">referral code</a> so I can get a little credit towards my next Fix!</div>
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<a href="http://mandrillapp.com/track/click.php?u=3541274&id=b3fb180894924bc5accb333fa957fb3a&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstitchfix.com%2Fsign_up%3Freferrer_id%3D3075423&url_id=9d2040ba72e4fb9ca8dd6ceb9018dfda25835cd0">http://stitchfix.com/sign_up?referrer_id=3075423</a></div>
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Have a great Labor Day Weekend!</div>
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~Anika</div>
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-76850947631801170052013-08-23T13:29:00.000-05:002013-08-23T13:29:27.288-05:00A Backyard Rustic WeddingLast weekend my brother-in-law and his bride had a gorgeous day for their wedding! I am not sure if I have ever seen a more perfect weather forecast for the whole week! We spent several days leading up to the wedding decorating the yard. It was exciting to watch everything come together.<br />
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Rhett and Kylee got engaged in May, so there wasn't a lot of time to plan and prepare. They decided to get married in my in-laws backyard and went with a somewhat rustic theme...including a lot of burlap, lace and mason jars. Their colors were gray and yellow - think sunflower yellow. We had a couple pinterest boards filled with ideas and realized we would need to focus on a few projects that would have the most impact. This is what we ended up with...<br />
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Wooden Signs: We cut out letters with my cricut, pinned them onto pallet boards and spray painted over them. They took longer to make than I expected, but they turned out great! Some of the spray paint was shimmery so it didn't photograph well, but you could easily read them in real life.<br />
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Some of the signs helped the guests find their way around...</div>
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Some of them lined the path to the ceremony and reception...</div>
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And this one was carried (or should I say pulled) down the aisle by my boys! (Too cute!)</div>
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The Father of the Bride built the arbor and the aisle runner was burlap and we sewed lace onto the ends...I didn't get a close up picture. </div>
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We spent many hours making yarn balls. After a few fails, we found that a mixture of cornstarch, glue and water worked best...and be sure to grease the balloon with vaseline! For the bigger balls, we used "punching balloons" because they are round, versus the teardrop shape of a regular balloon.<br />
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We also used embroidery hoops to make "fabric chandeliers. Three of them hung in the middle of the tent surrounded by the yarn balls...<br />
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And the rest hung in the tree limbs along the path, like this one.</div>
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The bar area turned out so cute! The guys built the bar using pallets and it was decorated with bouquets of sticks and burlap roses and embroidery hoops filled with various fabrics. The windows sitting on the left listed the drinks that were available.<br />
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This arch was to the side of the bar. We saw something similar on pinterest and asked the guys to take a stab at making one too.</div>
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There were both regular tables and picnic tables. We tied twine around the ends of the table to hold the table cloths down. The centerpiece was a tree cookie and 3 mason jars...one with sunflowers, one with a candle and one with sticks and rocks. I wish I would have taken another picture after we flipped the plates over...they were purchased from various thrift stores and the variety of patterns and colors was so fun!<br />
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The food was served from the basement of the house so we added a few decorations to the porch. This old wooden ladder got spruced up with left over decorations from other areas. </div>
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And the other side had a cute lantern and a giant tree cookie. </div>
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They used their picnic basket as a card box. </div>
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Cow bells to ring for a kiss </div>
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This was part of the guest book table decor...a stick bouquet on a tree cookie.</div>
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There were several garlands (made from lace, burlap and various other fabrics) that were hung is a few areas too.</div>
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Such a fun day, well actually it was a fun week! Oh, and I should probably share a family picture from the day! (The boys are at an age were suckers are a necessity if you want them to cooperate for more than 2 minutes!) Quite a good looking group, don't you think!?!<br />
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I am planning to write a post about my dress as well. It was a $4 Salvation Army find, the color was perfect for my Element, but it had silly sleeves so I reworked it.<br />
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Enjoy the weekend!<br />
~Anika<br />
<br />Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-29527358111874603272013-08-22T15:29:00.000-05:002013-08-22T15:32:48.489-05:00Dyeing Clothing...like an (almost) free shopping spreeAs I mentioned in my <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/2013/08/stitch-fix-1.html">last post</a>, I am a Water. I went to a workshop held by one of my best friends and learned about the 4 Elements...Air, Water, Fire and Earth...and how knowing which Element you are can help you choose clothing, make-up and jewelry that will look great on you. It even helps with which hair styles will be best for you! You leave with a color fan that easily fits in your purse to help you when you are shopping. You can find out more about the Element's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FindingYourElement">here</a> and <a href="http://findingyourelement1.blogspot.com/">here</a>.<br />
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Once I knew my Element, it was time to go through my closet. About half of the clothing I had was still going to work for me. The majority of the rest would have been perfect for an Air...too bad I don't have a friend that wears the same size that's an Air! I decided to give away most of the things I wouldn't be wearing anymore, but decided to try dyeing some of the clothes.<br />
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I bought Purple, Royal Blue and Navy Blue Liquid Rit Dye and dug through my pile of clothing. I pulled out several white items to try and decided to toss in a few colored things too...pink + blue = purple and purple is a great color for a Water. I ended up with a pile of 10 things, here are a few of them...<br />
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Check the labels to make sure they are compatible with the dye and then follow the directions on the bottle of dye. I needed hot water, salt and the dye.</div>
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Start by getting the clothing wet. Then mix up the dye and stir...and stir...and stir... I left all my pieces in for about 30 minutes.</div>
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Then drain the water and start rinsing out each piece. </div>
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Once the water runs clear (or almost clear) toss them in the wash.</div>
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Here is what I ended up with...</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp2joSoJryYuCjBSgySfw88d9GaywfyxcQi6Q82DskbReOQNbQDXWReU3-Zzuryf6Er1WQ6dwuoIMT9qjOUOQWM1hOPb-rM4od90deFRllar53UJGv_8MCOJk5pgrFB5FKeLQk4Y5soKYL/s1600/IMG_0720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp2joSoJryYuCjBSgySfw88d9GaywfyxcQi6Q82DskbReOQNbQDXWReU3-Zzuryf6Er1WQ6dwuoIMT9qjOUOQWM1hOPb-rM4od90deFRllar53UJGv_8MCOJk5pgrFB5FKeLQk4Y5soKYL/s640/IMG_0720.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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From left to right...v-neck t-shirt originally white, dyed with Navy Blue; swirly long sleeved t-shirt originally bubblegum pink, dyed with Navy Blue; Seuss shirt originally cream, dyed with Royal Blue; swirly cardigan originally cream, dyed with Purple; ruffled collar shirt originally white, dyed with Purple</div>
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From left to right...v-neck long sleeved t-shirt originally coral, dyed with Navy Blue; crew neck t-shirt originally white, dyed with Royal Blue; tank top originally robin's egg blue, dyed with Navy Blue.</div>
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Just wanted to show you a close up of the Seuss shirt...the screen printing wasn't affected by the dye. So now I can kind of dress in my Element even during Dr. Seuss week at school...not sure if the fish are really in my Element! ;-) </div>
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And here are my last two pieces...the top was originally coral and I dyed it with Navy Blue, and the skirt was originally white and I dyed it with Royal Blue...it doesn't have such a purple tone in real life.</div>
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So that's how I made some of my Air clothing into Water clothing for under $10! If you have clothing in your closet that you never wear, it might be fun to try dyeing it to see what you end up with!</div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-82389818997801319732013-08-07T15:02:00.000-05:002013-08-22T15:29:39.873-05:00Stitch Fix #1For the past couple months, I have read several posts about Stitch Fix. Have you heard of it?? Basically, after filling out your Style Profile, a Stitch Fix Stylist chooses 5 pieces of clothing and jewelry that they think you will love. Then they mail it to you and you have 3 days to decide which items you want to keep. There is a $20 styling fee, however, you can apply that fee to any of the items you decide to keep.<br />
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Today, my first Fix arrived! Now, before I show you what I got, you should know that I am a "Water". I won't go into a lot of detail...wait, who am I kidding, I am a Water and details are practically my life! So let me explain...one of my best friends is a consultant for In Your Element. When you go to an Element Workshop you learn what colors, patterns, styles, etc... work with your body's natural energy. As a Water muted colors and colors with gray undertones (think gray, lilac, mauve, etc.) and flowing, soft styles are great for me. I tried really hard to convey that while filling out my style profile for Stitch Fix. They even let you link to a Pinterest board so your stylist can get a better sense of what you like, so I linked up to <a href="http://pinterest.com/anika_marie/my-style/">this board</a>.<br />
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So here we go...(Yes, I took this pictures in my boys' room...only place I could get somewhat decent lighting inside.)<br />
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Item #1: Paradiso Cowl Neck Short Sleeve Top<br />
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The style of this shirt is good, but the color is not! It totally washes me out. Also, while the cowl neck is good for a Water, this was almost too drapey for my small frame. </div>
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Item #2: Martine Floral Print Wrap Dress<br />
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I specifically stated "No White" in 2 different places on my profile. I also stated that any prints needed to be subtle...no high contrast. The fit of this dress was good, but lower cut and shorter than I prefer. It was also a clingy material that is not great for my "post-twins-tummy".</div>
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Here is the styling card that was included with this dress (there is one for each item, but I didn't take pictures of them all). At least there was a purple cardigan on the styling card...too bad it wasn't included in my Fix!</div>
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Item #3: Bryan Short-Sleeve Open-Front Cardigan </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIc4zS7tFaMJ7AS19Tnh3QXkTlGykZh5bEWKXJCv93RaYRDNyBIFSl3tRRgpH4rCZnIip8cSaLQPMUT_EtkUt6PEyfJ_3kop_b8IK-vp8MZC0MNOgnf5UYyU3aCPpmdNtO4ercRjsvLEUo/s1600/IMG_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIc4zS7tFaMJ7AS19Tnh3QXkTlGykZh5bEWKXJCv93RaYRDNyBIFSl3tRRgpH4rCZnIip8cSaLQPMUT_EtkUt6PEyfJ_3kop_b8IK-vp8MZC0MNOgnf5UYyU3aCPpmdNtO4ercRjsvLEUo/s640/IMG_0046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another color I specifically stated no to...orange. Again, sizing and style are okay, but this color does nothing for me.</div>
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I am also wearing the necklace I got in this picture, more on that later...</div>
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Item #4: Ivan Bejeweled Neck Tribal Print Tank</div>
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The blue color in this tank is awesome...perfect for a Water, however, it is paired with white which ends up washing me out. The style is great...oval neckline and slightly flowy.</div>
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Item #5: Mini Circle Long Necklace<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8kCReGoGe86nye3F_urdXviTi1I5Fns2l0e8B-g1nhV459IlSvIehSfqbl-AVZt9fxF150SQZJuyzxTFIo-koStkHbQrL0EKWG37w9mIPR6wau9pkp7S1XpTwXkBPvNxiDK-1rk6Mh3b/s1600/IMG_0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8kCReGoGe86nye3F_urdXviTi1I5Fns2l0e8B-g1nhV459IlSvIehSfqbl-AVZt9fxF150SQZJuyzxTFIo-koStkHbQrL0EKWG37w9mIPR6wau9pkp7S1XpTwXkBPvNxiDK-1rk6Mh3b/s320/IMG_0052.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I will be keeping this necklace, it's simple, the perfect length and gives a great oval shape to whatever neckline I am wearing.</div>
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While, I definitely don't think the stylist hit it out of the park on this fix (I actually feel like she struck out! I feel like she just looked at my sizes and picked clothing completely disregarding anything on my Pinterest Board.) It was still a fun experience. And now I get to go leave her feedback on each of these items...hopefully that will make my next Fix better. (I am also going to request a different stylist next time.)</div>
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Want to get a Fix of your own? If you do, I would love it if you'd use my referral code so I can get a $25 Stitch Fix Credit <a href="http://mandrillapp.com/track/click.php?u=3541274&id=14e5734ee4dc4d51bcf3fafaed7cd5d3&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstitchfix.com%2Fsign_up%3Freferrer_id%3D3075423&url_id=9d2040ba72e4fb9ca8dd6ceb9018dfda25835cd0&tags=_all,_sendhello@stitchfix.com">http://stitchfix.com/sign_up?referrer_id=3075423</a><br />
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And here is proof that dressing in my Element makes a difference.<br />
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This aqua colored shirt was washing me out...</div>
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...but look at my skin in this purple dress! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqAG9nUkbNQwXk-D89j4d30PJU2tOrpWKeTGwizPMg5cn9GQXGJxbnwjWaCZycJqxmIRhzNLkI5FDjqDJXGvlBjWiX6v4sGkvxwgbcgU0CW4DKWhmaXSXfE88rW6Utuioke8jXW7UGBdP/s1600/IMG_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqAG9nUkbNQwXk-D89j4d30PJU2tOrpWKeTGwizPMg5cn9GQXGJxbnwjWaCZycJqxmIRhzNLkI5FDjqDJXGvlBjWiX6v4sGkvxwgbcgU0CW4DKWhmaXSXfE88rW6Utuioke8jXW7UGBdP/s320/IMG_0068.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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(I promise I have the exact same makeup on and I am not any tanner.)</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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~Anika<br />
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<i>**Stitch Fix has not paid or perked me in anyway. I just wanted to share my experience.**</i></div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-54227140245178246932013-08-02T15:32:00.001-05:002013-08-02T15:32:50.006-05:00Bridal Shower CardI mentioned in my last post that I had been doing quite a bit of crafting, just hadn't had the time to blog about it. The majority of the crafting has been because my brother-in-law is getting married! They got engaged in the Spring and decided to get married this Summer...just 15 more days away! They are having a rustic, elegant, backyard wedding at my in-laws house...burlap, lace, mason jars, embroidery hoops!! So, we have been busy little crafters making all sorts of fun decorations. We are praying for gorgeous weather and that we manage to finish everything on the list. I will definitely share pictures here in a few weeks!<br />
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Tomorrow is the Bridal Shower so I sat down while the boys napped today and put together a card based on the adorable layout I saw on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/49680402109209682/">this</a> card by <a href="http://www.dawnmcvey.typepad.com/">Dawn McVey</a>. (The pin on pinterest is not linked to the card's specific blog post.) <br />
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I went with the wedding colors...gray and yellow and cut the hearts using the Simply Sweet Cricut cartridge<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUNaLyRlwOhb9uWNzmFlI5aUnoMCBS3Dv4X8Nz0sAbRPyQX40eZL_A0SMZJ7LbHgBD2sEHLp0spU8G6A9fHy5K588llyYZqOa_6IVdQdOoDaqX19BJmk4BVD51uGMSBp4mjicu9xHJ7fF/s1600/IMG_0035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUNaLyRlwOhb9uWNzmFlI5aUnoMCBS3Dv4X8Nz0sAbRPyQX40eZL_A0SMZJ7LbHgBD2sEHLp0spU8G6A9fHy5K588llyYZqOa_6IVdQdOoDaqX19BJmk4BVD51uGMSBp4mjicu9xHJ7fF/s400/IMG_0035.JPG" width="311" /></a></div>
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And here's a close up...I am out of dimensional adhesive, so i cut some squares of corrugated cardboard to pop the hearts up; the "r" heart has one layer under it and the "k" heart has two. I also cut a small piece of the gray polka dot paper and glued it behind the "k", otherwise it wasn't noticeable against the other heart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jUvrr6WsYGhyDchZVJ_98vhx_ILkNTCVdN1wkkVtBHdmTI7XHR4Ke3ipMG3xBDkQcFa0VgnPM7SP7KtB3kOOAAscHVVP5_PmPCafcaQW82Ji4KEmOtGpMYuRwgvaB8XXvOxs_AFfXWda/s1600/IMG_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jUvrr6WsYGhyDchZVJ_98vhx_ILkNTCVdN1wkkVtBHdmTI7XHR4Ke3ipMG3xBDkQcFa0VgnPM7SP7KtB3kOOAAscHVVP5_PmPCafcaQW82Ji4KEmOtGpMYuRwgvaB8XXvOxs_AFfXWda/s320/IMG_0034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Definitely tucking this layout away for future use on shower and wedding cards...love how easy it was to make it more personal with the monogrammed hearts!</div>
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Well, I am off to finish up decorations for the shower! Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend!</div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-35165800905752869882013-07-26T13:08:00.002-05:002013-08-02T09:07:05.817-05:00Tote BagI have actually had some time to get crafty this summer! Just no time to blog about it. Oh well, at least the dust is off my sewing machine, stamp sets, and cricut!<br />
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Today, the boys are cooperating by napping, however, so I am going to quick share a tote bag I just finished. (It's a birthday gift for my brother's girlfriend and I am giving it to her tonight. I don't think she reads my blog, but Ashley, if you are reading this here's your gift! Happy Birthday!)<br />
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I saw the tutorial for this tote on <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2013/07/two-tone-fabric-totes-2-variations.html">Make It & Love It</a> the other day just after I had received a box of fabric from onlinefabricstore.com. I had been trying to figure out what to get Ashley and decided I had plenty of time to whip this up with a couple of the new fabrics I had ordered. The tutorial was really easy to follow and I love the final product...it's going to be hard to wrap up and give away, but I say that about almost everything I make!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7lDsyBzRpqZgYHDDDTYgONsFUDDQbof8EpE97AR_x2ENCTemFvTjoj3nQJjo-9q6JoRgBTAMLmM7d3AXV_JXT1RK9Rf-KmkY8syAX1XxGcw0gnWNUG8zO8zJiSoPNF_s-pm6F2-CtDAk/s1600/IMG_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7lDsyBzRpqZgYHDDDTYgONsFUDDQbof8EpE97AR_x2ENCTemFvTjoj3nQJjo-9q6JoRgBTAMLmM7d3AXV_JXT1RK9Rf-KmkY8syAX1XxGcw0gnWNUG8zO8zJiSoPNF_s-pm6F2-CtDAk/s640/IMG_0005.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
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It's bigger than I was expecting, which is awesome!</div>
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Now to pick up a few things to put in it before I wrap it up! (Magazines, Snacks...)</div>
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Linking up here...be sure to check out what everyone else has been up to!</div>
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<a href="http://www.fivedaysfiveways.com/" nbsp="" target="_blank" title="five days five ways feature friday free for all"><img alt="five days five ways | feature friday free for all" src="http://www.capitalhcoder.com/fivedaysfiveways/5d5wfreeforall.png" style="border-style: none;" /></a></div>
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Hope you are enjoying your summer! I will try not to take another 2 month hiatus from blogging, but no promises with back to school time only weeks away. (Am I the only one who can't believe it will be August in a week??)</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-90163878024738024812013-05-28T20:02:00.001-05:002013-05-28T20:02:31.570-05:00Spring 2013...if you can call this weather SpringIt's been an interesting season here is Wisconsin. Just when we think the weather is making a turn for the better, we get another cold spell. Or even 16 inches of snow...that's what happened on May 2nd! I think we are out of the woods when it comes to the snow storms, now if it could just warm up and stay that way for awhile!! (Keep in mind these pictures are in chronological order!)<div>
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Riding around the house with their shades on.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjD64e030FShlQbC4Jx6wm4EenDYgbb6EUiEGfEo6hNvillgZimQhc-xZFF01wuh_-WydlFpWn9S11RWfIpRSfS-SJGKcFtseqwSKhubLftFS0MvCXkpH7fB9at4hHwJjpEfsYzvX6lqh/s1600/IMG_8706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjD64e030FShlQbC4Jx6wm4EenDYgbb6EUiEGfEo6hNvillgZimQhc-xZFF01wuh_-WydlFpWn9S11RWfIpRSfS-SJGKcFtseqwSKhubLftFS0MvCXkpH7fB9at4hHwJjpEfsYzvX6lqh/s400/IMG_8706.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Just a little snow left. We were so ready for some outside time! </div>
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Relaxing with the magna-doodles</div>
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No more snow and no more coats! Our annual visit to the S&S Sugar Bush to pick up our Maple Syrup and eat some delicious pancakes. </div>
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Shorts and John Deere Tractors!</div>
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UGH!! </div>
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At least the boys enjoyed it for a bit!</div>
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One lazy Saturday morning. :) When they wake up at their usual 6:00AM on the weekends we toss them in the middle of our bed and try to get another hour of sleep...this particular Saturday it actually worked!</div>
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The snow is gone again!</div>
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Golf cart rides at Grandpa's house. </div>
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Mother's Day campfire </div>
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More sandbox time </div>
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And a few pictures from our family photo session...</div>
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So that's what we have been up to the past couple months. I have 7 more days of school and am looking forward to summer vacation with my boys! I'm hopeful that the weather will turn around for good so we can enjoy a lot of time outside. </div>
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Have any fun summer plans?</div>
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~Anika</div>
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-80735262645043087052013-04-14T17:01:00.006-05:002013-04-14T17:02:43.812-05:00TWO!Today my baby boys turned 2! What a wild and crazy 2 years it has been! We had a Dump Truck / Digger themed party yesterday. I didn't put nearly as much time into the decorations and details as I did for their 1st birthday when we had a Dr. Seuss party, but here is what I did do...<br />
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Made a wreath for the front door...Caution Tape wrapped around a wreath form and orange cardstock for the sign </div>
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We had a couple sawhorses that we added a barricade stripe to. One was on the front deck and this one is in the entry way.</div>
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Yellow and black cardstock and my cricut made this sign quick and easy to put together. To make the black line around each sign, I just cut a square of cardstock slightly smaller and traced it carefully with a black Sharpie marker.</div>
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I added some balloons to the light fixture chain over the kitchen island, along with a twirly decoration I bought on amazon.com.</div>
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A couple CAUTION signs hung in various places</div>
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The food set up was my favorite! We used Tonka Dump Trucks to hold the forks and spoons. There are "DIG IN" signs hanging from the door pulls...</div>
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We put bags of chips in one giant dump truck...</div>
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Then there was dessert!! My fabulous Aunt make the cake along with the "dirt pile" which was rice krispie treats mounded up and covered with chocolate (and gummy worms, of course!)</div>
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The 2 small dump trucks on the dirt pile and this big dump truck were filled with "Dirt Dessert"! (AKA pudding, OREO crumbs and gummy worms...YUM!) </div>
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We put the candles in the little dump trucks, </div>
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and after we sang, they got to dig in with their loader forks! </div>
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We had a blast celebrating with our family and friends - even though we were slightly crowded in our house! We are so blessed by these two little (or should I say BIG) dudes!</div>
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~Anika</div>
<br />Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-52181541723461611442013-02-02T16:21:00.000-06:002013-02-02T16:21:14.581-06:00"Welcome Baby" cardSince when do I get to post something to my blog two days in a row? I know, I can't believe it either! But, I just finished this baby card and the boys were still napping, so I decided to play around with the Manual settings on my camera and try to get a decent picture of it. And after a few attempts, I *think* I got one...and the boys are still asleep so I figured I'd get it posted quick!<br />
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And, how about a cute picture from bath time the other night??<br />
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I think this was taken just seconds before I got attacked by their crazy splashing! I guess that's one way to get the bathroom floor clean! :)<br />
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Thanks for stopping by!<br />
~AnikaAnikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-14352100535782927262013-02-01T06:07:00.000-06:002013-02-01T06:09:01.186-06:00Preschool Project: Jj is for JellyfishI love how technology is continually changing the way I teach. A few years ago our classrooms were equipped with SMART Boards and now I'm not sure how I taught without one. And now that everyone is sharing and pinning amazing ideas online, I'm not sure how I planned lessons and projects without Pinterest!<br />
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Last summer, I found these adorable jellyfish on Pinterest.</div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/141793088238526434/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="900" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/550/f0/bd/fe/f0bdfedd3c0f5e8d324a65a6550513a3.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.scrapbooksetc.com/blogs/iscrapuscrap/2011/06/15/how-to-make-your-own-jellyfish/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">scrapbooksetc.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/anika_marie/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Anika</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">I knew I had to make them with my preschoolers during our Letter Jj week, BUT everyone knows a teacher's budget is small; there was no way I could afford to buy enough ric rac and fancy ribbon for 37 jellyfish. Time to brainstorm a cheap alternative...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Enter the plastic bag!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">I flattened the bag and cut off the bottom seam.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrSlcy6nsDXJe-dB8eWuMfU96XoRMcRROmVqZrgZhx68nuliPGgTzYhOkDZPXVUnQLbP4zXw0CEls2e53b-rFjD-nnC6DwrAdEro1E5eYdRHydn0seSZSAIL4mCSXuJnZa8rdbTUIyhWOR/s1600/IMG_8225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrSlcy6nsDXJe-dB8eWuMfU96XoRMcRROmVqZrgZhx68nuliPGgTzYhOkDZPXVUnQLbP4zXw0CEls2e53b-rFjD-nnC6DwrAdEro1E5eYdRHydn0seSZSAIL4mCSXuJnZa8rdbTUIyhWOR/s320/IMG_8225.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Then I re-flattened the bag and folded it in half, then in half again. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHKQK77MRixnU645A7Vzed3VJzujC-lMXbwYilI53r2Vr4Vy4BEsVPbczoyXEefRtn8I2xYChRUNo2kly2qOecF7nakhDvU6BnrOEy1LpYN3Vud8uYAEL2GKgc0sYweQPPY1pNijt7KYB/s1600/IMG_8226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHKQK77MRixnU645A7Vzed3VJzujC-lMXbwYilI53r2Vr4Vy4BEsVPbczoyXEefRtn8I2xYChRUNo2kly2qOecF7nakhDvU6BnrOEy1LpYN3Vud8uYAEL2GKgc0sYweQPPY1pNijt7KYB/s320/IMG_8226.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi96duhVLklmJ3gayTmrvzF1oQupAb0zBZkYeFcfWx1TvibSLFj_GoYfShXtWzugUOv9ImXorMFoTtHBFU_Z3v3WnZJHxILwdlKU-BPesWy2q7r4_8l7lSZzGufMEhPmGwrI-6FmlSbO_Lv/s1600/IMG_8228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi96duhVLklmJ3gayTmrvzF1oQupAb0zBZkYeFcfWx1TvibSLFj_GoYfShXtWzugUOv9ImXorMFoTtHBFU_Z3v3WnZJHxILwdlKU-BPesWy2q7r4_8l7lSZzGufMEhPmGwrI-6FmlSbO_Lv/s320/IMG_8228.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">I cut the folded bag into 3 squares.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkf8dgpHgmc1g_S7NbBm1nCgmOahKsKWk5-LlaV3MyZOA65F5qbp4dYDmfFDMBC_6bFao_2h-NDdmoR5YPYAaoyVQyAhd0dNKAr8yQR8hj-A-3XFchbCqBVz37qxKyASWU7Diz1hLQqOdZ/s1600/IMG_8229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkf8dgpHgmc1g_S7NbBm1nCgmOahKsKWk5-LlaV3MyZOA65F5qbp4dYDmfFDMBC_6bFao_2h-NDdmoR5YPYAaoyVQyAhd0dNKAr8yQR8hj-A-3XFchbCqBVz37qxKyASWU7Diz1hLQqOdZ/s320/IMG_8229.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbi9o1nvpuUv7gwfXqZFDNJFy-nWAolkDpfyCD0hyphenhyphenkZ9INW-khgGBuF-_YlnpadV4WcxLbRUqq7mzmq9GtAa7CkbAjxGs_S0O0UCRSrSKI2BbCoLmDSmYXA_zJz1uKg4l4uUTHAEiMPc1D/s1600/IMG_8230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbi9o1nvpuUv7gwfXqZFDNJFy-nWAolkDpfyCD0hyphenhyphenkZ9INW-khgGBuF-_YlnpadV4WcxLbRUqq7mzmq9GtAa7CkbAjxGs_S0O0UCRSrSKI2BbCoLmDSmYXA_zJz1uKg4l4uUTHAEiMPc1D/s320/IMG_8230.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I cut the squares into circles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcv4TxBRmk80f-blEq3rpyW04VOgjxHBgsPPNQhNjWfG2AmGYBDSvn8_XxFT8j-4uM5MgF9etsNg2npT_MOEE24LXlT_vgRJPT4CZFKc72uLZdcGoHYgv70XDJt7IUlSCMCwuVeWXcGQdY/s1600/IMG_8231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcv4TxBRmk80f-blEq3rpyW04VOgjxHBgsPPNQhNjWfG2AmGYBDSvn8_XxFT8j-4uM5MgF9etsNg2npT_MOEE24LXlT_vgRJPT4CZFKc72uLZdcGoHYgv70XDJt7IUlSCMCwuVeWXcGQdY/s320/IMG_8231.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Then I held the layers together tightly and cut a spiral all the way to the middle. If you have a good sharp scissors, the layers hold together better making it easier to hold onto and cut.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAjzh1r2Tmtx7ktaX0-OT-AAoQzimHZH4c3czZeuKgJsZyUWUGQ-GJq8rbqbh1pTQXRZgqoMVVf6OhHmbwdjmctSXxAxrbR7ETGoIl1F2k118IiTDWaIq48r4kbf8JVnD23FviD-xvugp/s1600/IMG_8232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAjzh1r2Tmtx7ktaX0-OT-AAoQzimHZH4c3czZeuKgJsZyUWUGQ-GJq8rbqbh1pTQXRZgqoMVVf6OhHmbwdjmctSXxAxrbR7ETGoIl1F2k118IiTDWaIq48r4kbf8JVnD23FviD-xvugp/s320/IMG_8232.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5rdmq1e3v09TcbBCKlIZo4uZogb6w5Sahl_lnX5_HvPCZ8E-OrJ_tNOIvCADBax7Z8MuyHVUd_Opp6yyZHhvGhF3MiRObfq7GOphzxUI6W-raXAIm5Yvnwgz-N65GC3gidty4A47SI_Cv/s1600/IMG_8233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5rdmq1e3v09TcbBCKlIZo4uZogb6w5Sahl_lnX5_HvPCZ8E-OrJ_tNOIvCADBax7Z8MuyHVUd_Opp6yyZHhvGhF3MiRObfq7GOphzxUI6W-raXAIm5Yvnwgz-N65GC3gidty4A47SI_Cv/s320/IMG_8233.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Separate the layers and Ta-da! Awesome jellyfish "guts" for free! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0S1k9_CVQp59hjpg1cKJ3GCqTxP38Vj-CGULbD8T-MpFsthC7p8heYMYvB-2tMorWeRIStGeBTSk7ttV2n8HEK1GNzVRo1Rjx0VNHN-QDd-cf55dxdKhRzrFjKtlHAx_qJDDVvWLKOnbk/s1600/IMG_8234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0S1k9_CVQp59hjpg1cKJ3GCqTxP38Vj-CGULbD8T-MpFsthC7p8heYMYvB-2tMorWeRIStGeBTSk7ttV2n8HEK1GNzVRo1Rjx0VNHN-QDd-cf55dxdKhRzrFjKtlHAx_qJDDVvWLKOnbk/s320/IMG_8234.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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This is everything I was able to cut from one bag. It would be enough for 2-3 jellyfish, depending on how full you want the guts. And here is the final product...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmqNwLBU7pICZpkArVLZJiBiJlIoLNqZG3nHJLE0uklWI0EgtGc_wGhgKchspUbzn2YzbjRtkEB0Ff2g2BLfnY_oRM5fsWjUhrC_oJ_Ecnd6AW5Jq8hi6HlHwcSmCADIJFO3UvJOM7q0e/s1600/DSC04856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmqNwLBU7pICZpkArVLZJiBiJlIoLNqZG3nHJLE0uklWI0EgtGc_wGhgKchspUbzn2YzbjRtkEB0Ff2g2BLfnY_oRM5fsWjUhrC_oJ_Ecnd6AW5Jq8hi6HlHwcSmCADIJFO3UvJOM7q0e/s400/DSC04856.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">To complete the jellyfish, I was lucky enough to have a pretty decent stash of ribbon, and some great parents who donated some as well, to use for the ribbons around the outside of the jellyfish. And the bowls were only a few dollars at Target. So we were able to make our jellyfish for super cheap! I think they are adorable with the white Target bags, but I'm planning to save up colored plastic bags for when we do this next year!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalXyz5GiH5ldcHEqvVvTpmOy8HbDM35No-1q-43TeZNlrOMWAmhg_waM-gHywA_8AMU7iC9JOIX4-NLFfVkIVXrHaLlGSvorMQNQHYnkaAsi7UFGqHPjxteEbdpR64dfKornyHOguiGQx/s1600/DSC04857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalXyz5GiH5ldcHEqvVvTpmOy8HbDM35No-1q-43TeZNlrOMWAmhg_waM-gHywA_8AMU7iC9JOIX4-NLFfVkIVXrHaLlGSvorMQNQHYnkaAsi7UFGqHPjxteEbdpR64dfKornyHOguiGQx/s400/DSC04857.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">We followed the rest of the directions as stated <a href="http://www.scrapbooksetc.com/blogs/iscrapuscrap/2011/06/15/how-to-make-your-own-jellyfish">here</a> on the scrapbooks etc. blog. The preschoolers were able to paint their own bowl, glue the ribbon along the rim of the bowl and add the googly eyes. Then I threaded the fishing line and they helped me add the strands of plastic bag. </span>They look so fun hanging in our hallway and classroom! <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Have you come across any projects that you have been able to modify so they were cheaper to make? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Thanks for stopping by!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">~Anika</span>Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-15455048442600169472013-01-27T06:00:00.000-06:002015-01-22T22:27:18.433-06:00Atypical Mycobacterial Infection: One year post surgeryIn some ways the past year has flown by and I feel like we were just checking into the hospital for Ezra's surgery with anxious stomachs. In other ways, it seems like SO long ago. Ezra was a only 9 month old baby then. Now he's a walking, running, climbing, talking, eating-on-his-own toddler!<br />
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Here we are in prep-op on surgery day - 1/27/2012</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMXt-11yPmO2vMLc9ki7awQL1CZ0Ys0k4QdnXPpSzIwxDsIPkHUaeCfoKbc45d_O6lDpFx8sew-VZlUfamqNXiNgnuJwVBSWst6Fu5ln26GZ2d7m_OVKgkg6hNAH380Yjle5KORQFGp7N/s1600/IMG_3677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMXt-11yPmO2vMLc9ki7awQL1CZ0Ys0k4QdnXPpSzIwxDsIPkHUaeCfoKbc45d_O6lDpFx8sew-VZlUfamqNXiNgnuJwVBSWst6Fu5ln26GZ2d7m_OVKgkg6hNAH380Yjle5KORQFGp7N/s640/IMG_3677.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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We are so thankful everyday that his surgery and recovery went so smoothly! We will never forget how blessed we are to live with modern medicine and to live so close to such amazing Children's hospitals - had we not been satisfied with the first doctor we saw, there would have been at least 3 other places we could have went all within an hour of our house.<br />
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(He napped while the doc was prepping him.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0a3xQL7YqRZPeMqzH9T1OZ7FKmHAYX0ulMgz8RMsXubfHtD1c_z0vQ696awB4gHz0wYh5RYW3pqYv8WaP444KicJjNMiahRgXljd4E6zf7_2BZhOQZcciWRXWkE0goLARK8XRR0pGJ559/s1600/IMG_3680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0a3xQL7YqRZPeMqzH9T1OZ7FKmHAYX0ulMgz8RMsXubfHtD1c_z0vQ696awB4gHz0wYh5RYW3pqYv8WaP444KicJjNMiahRgXljd4E6zf7_2BZhOQZcciWRXWkE0goLARK8XRR0pGJ559/s640/IMG_3680.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ezra has healed up well. His incision scar is barely visible - even if you are looking for it. The red spot left on his skin from where the infection was shrunk from the size of a Quarter to the size of a Pea. It seems to continue to shrink bit by bit each month. His doctor said that if it stops shrinking he could remove that small section of skin, but I think we will give it a little more time to heal on it own.<br />
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The only way I can get a picture of it these days is while he's asleep.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGPdgEIGCQ6rkkbGoAoPy0pVHt28-Y6zw8jh9aKi4-DogFfFQ0O_CiX0D44L6bEk7wvA6LFyVfZTNOGH5xCH5l7q9_i1m48rv0u1swKKXCPpjGpQQwMkrLJ3syKYbz_OgIal2QDQKmzSW/s1600/IMG_8214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGPdgEIGCQ6rkkbGoAoPy0pVHt28-Y6zw8jh9aKi4-DogFfFQ0O_CiX0D44L6bEk7wvA6LFyVfZTNOGH5xCH5l7q9_i1m48rv0u1swKKXCPpjGpQQwMkrLJ3syKYbz_OgIal2QDQKmzSW/s640/IMG_8214.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ezra also developed Frey's Syndrome from the surgery. (He gets a red area on his cheek when he eats acidic foods, such as fruit.) Not much is known about Frey's because it's so rare. We aren't sure if he will have this for a few years or the rest of his life, but I don't think the area seems to get as red as it used to. So maybe it will just go away! It's nothing that hurts him though so we will just wait and see!<br />
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Here's his best "cheese face" for you!</div>
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So thankful that both boys have been very healthy over the past year...one ear infection each and pink eye for Ashton was all we had to deal with since the crazy, how-on-earth-did-my-baby-develop-that, Atypical Mycobacterial Infection!<br />
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(You can read about his diagnosis <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/2012/01/atypical-mycobacterial-infection.html">here</a>, his hospital stay and initial recovery <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/2012/01/surgery-update.html">here</a>, and his 6 month post-op update <a href="http://anikamarie.blogspot.com/2012/07/6-months-post-op.html">here</a>.)<br />
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If you have more questions about our experience with Atypical Mycobacterium, please leave a comment or email me at thoner02k @ yahoo . com<thoner02k at="" com="" dot="" yahoo=""><thoner02k at="" com="" dot="" yahoo="">. </thoner02k></thoner02k><br />
~AnikaAnikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-64001261237712825462012-12-10T14:58:00.001-06:002012-12-10T14:59:09.012-06:00Preschool Project: Elmer ElephantsWe have been in Christmas Project Making Mode at school, but I have a non-Christmas project to share with you today.<div>
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Have you read the book <u>Elmer</u>? If not, Elmer the Elephant is not "ordinary elephant color", he is patchwork. After reading the story that went along with our "Letter Ee Week", we used paper plates to make brightly colored and patterned elephants. </div>
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First the students colored designs on their plates (each student needed 2) then they used watercolor paints over the top of the crayon for a fun effect! They also followed these steps for the elephants trunk. (I found the pattern in an old activity book, but you could draw your own or look online for a picture that would work.)</div>
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Once they were dry, we cut one paper plate in half and stapled it on either side of the other plate as ears. Then we glued the trunk and eyes on.</div>
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I thought they turned out great and we got lots of comments on them from parents and other people who visited our school. Definitely a project we will do again next year for Letter Ee!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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~Anika</div>
Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471929515443997851.post-69799804713252781362012-10-22T16:32:00.000-05:002012-12-10T14:59:09.015-06:00Preschool Project: Marble Painted Jack-o-LanternsWow! After 7 weeks, I finally feel like things are settling down just a tiny bit at school. Most of my crafting happens at school these days and it's of the "preschool project" variety, I've decided that I might as well start blogging about those things, or I probably won't get to blog at all!<br />
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So today, I want to share a fun and quick Halloween project we made at school this month. </div>
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<b>Marble Painted Jack-o-Lanterns</b></div>
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Have you marble painted before? If not, you are totally missing out! I took pictures of the process, but they all have students in them so I can't use them on my blog. However, it's fairly simple. </div>
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<b>Here's what you need:</b></div>
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Shallow box or lid big enough to hold your paper (I used the lid from a box of paper, it had about 3" sides.)</div>
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8-15 Marbles</div>
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Orange Tempera Paint</div>
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Plastic Cup</div>
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Plastic Spoon</div>
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Construction Paper (White, Black and Tan)</div>
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Masking Tape</div>
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Scissors</div>
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Glue</div>
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<b>Here's what you do:</b></div>
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Make a small ring of masking tape, attach it to the center of a piece of white construction paper and then stick it down inside the box</div>
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Put some orange paint in the plastic cup and add the marbles to the cup</div>
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Stir them with the spoon until they are coated well</div>
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Dump them out into the corner of the box with the paper</div>
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Gently tilt and shake the box to make the marbles roll across the paper</div>
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When you like the design, dump the marbles back into the cup and pull the paper out</div>
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Once the paint is dry, cut the paper into a pumpkin shape</div>
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Cut Jack-o-Lantern features and a stem from the black and tan paper</div>
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Attach with glue and you're done!</div>
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If you are making a classroom bulletin board, a title such as "We've just <i>rolled</i> in from the Pumpkin Patch" ties in with the rolling marbles. (Clever, huh?! Ha! If you think of something better leave me a comment.)</div>
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My students loved making these and keep asking when they can marble paint again. So I guess I've have to figure out a few more marble painting projects this year! Hope you have been making some fun Halloween projects of your own!</div>
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And, since I haven't posted a picture of my boys lately, here they are! 18 months old and enjoying a beautiful fall evening on their new John Deere tractors that Grandpa Steve got them!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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~Anika</div>
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Anikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14971999624160392449noreply@blogger.com0