tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76809136130324367072024-03-05T23:10:21.783-06:00Lackadaisical MotivationMy Internet PsychologistJessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-11468585267900259922010-09-20T10:05:00.003-05:002010-09-20T10:20:50.198-05:00Update on the clutter<p style="text-align: left;">I felt much better after writing that post the other day about the clutter in our house. Putting it out there kept it on the forefront of my mind (where it had already been for several days, but now I have a plan). Yesterday I woke up early to start decluttering and, again, became almost too overwhelmed to even start.</p><p style="text-align: left;">To get things I don't use very often out of the kitchen, I needed to make room in the laundry room closet to put them. That meant I needed to spend time in the laundry room first. I opened the closet and there was just so much STUFF. I can't even tell you half of what was in there.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">Some of it was food that never fit in our kitchen pantry (how blessed are we that we have too much food to fit into a pantry?!) and had expired (see mom! it happens to me too :) ). I needed to throw it out, but our trash can in the garage was already overflowing with garbage.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">I almost quit before I ever got started. I knew I was about to make at least 3-4 more bags of trash and knowing I couldn't put it in the trash can nearly prevented me from even trying.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I literally had to talk myself into JUST DOING IT. Just start. "Pick up something and go" is what I told myself.</p><p style="text-align: left;">And so I did.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I got the closet mostly organized. Although it wasn't a complete cleaning out (I didn't go through the box of scarves/gloves/winter accessories and I didn't move the boxes of unopened appliances that we received at our wedding and haven't yet used (the clothes iron, the waffle iron and the electric carving knife)), I rearranged things to make room for the incoming appliances from the kitchen.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">I did get rid of some recipe books. I put them into a box that had been cluttering the laundry room floor for months (which contained books from upstairs, including more cookbooks, that I had set aside to donate to Goodwill).<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">That box is full and I WILL get rid of it TODAY!<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">I also cleaned off about 3/4 of the counter tops in the kitchen!! I moved appliances that only get used a few times into the cabinets underneath.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">Now I have more counter space near the sink so more dirty dishes can pile up :)</p><p style="text-align: left;">Although I know I accomplished quite a bit, I don't feel like it SHOWS. It was one of those days where you work, work, work but you don't feel like you got much accomplished. I guess thats because I know I have much more ahead of me to do.</p><p style="text-align: left;">But, I AM getting there. I'm not usually a "slowly but surely" kinda gal, but I need to be when it comes to decluttering.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">Side note: At one point I stopped to take pics for a before-and-after post, but then ditched that idea b/c I viewed it as yet another procrastination attempt!<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-27275743853814648602010-09-18T20:39:00.002-05:002010-09-18T21:19:23.533-05:00My world of excessWith a 7 week old baby at home (SEVEN WEEKS! Unbelievable), our house looks very different than it did pre-baby.<br /><br />The reality is that the clutter is not really due to the baby gear. I've just noticed our existing clutter more now that we have baby stuff here and there.<br /><br />I'm an organized person. My day is often organized. My purse is organized. Most important things in our house have a home.<br /><br />I'm running out of places to put things, though. Which leads me to a very important conclusion: we have waaaay to much stuff.<br /><br />I've spent the better part of this evening being thoroughly annoyed with STUFF. There isn't a flat surface in our house that doesn't have a pile (and, much to my dismay, the piles have piles).<br /><br />I'm living in a world of excess and it needs to stop.<br /><br />I've really struggled this past week or so with how much time I should be spending cleaning b/c I have this precious baby at home and I don't want to waste even one minute of time I could be spending with him. But the reality is that he sleeps. A lot. And he's sleeping really well at night, which means I'm also sleeping really well at night. Which means I don't need to sleep during the day when he's sleeping. Which ultimately means I should have <span style="font-style: italic;">some</span> time I could be spending make our house a home and not a pile of piles.<br /><br />My on-going plan is to declutter (I don't think it's an end goal b/c there will always be stuff).<br />Here is my plan:<br /><br />1) Start in the kitchen. We spent quite a bit of time in the kitchen so if we start there, I should feel better about our efforts b/c I'll notice it more (as opposed to, like our master bathroom closet, which we use, but not necessarily on a daily basis).<br /><br />2) Move onto the bedroom.<br /><br />3) Repeat steps 1 & 2 :)<br /><br />Interestingly, I stood up tonight, walked into the kitchen to start my project and just got completely overwhelmed so I came back to the couch and decided to blog about it instead :)<br /><br />Before I start, I have to have a mental game plan. I need to know generally what my plan of attack is before I start chipping away.<br /><br />For example, before I start cleaning out cabinets, I need boxes ready to accept things I plan on donating to Goodwill. So I really need to locate couple of good boxes.<br /><br />I feel like I can't start one project without first doing something else. This faulty thinking <span style="font-style: italic;">prevents</span> me from actually doing any decluttering. It's a procrastination technique.<br /><br />But that ends today.<br /><br />I've learned that there are several key items that I have an excess reserve of and as such, those items are consuming valuable cabinet and pantry space. I need to decide what to keep of the following items and what to donate:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">1) Glasses/cups/mugs</span>- I have waaaaaaaaaaaaaay too many glasses (cups). We have two shelves of glasses that we've almost never touched since moving in back in November 2006. I keep them "just in case." Just in case what? <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >We host 102 people at our home</span> and I insist on using actual glasses instead of the standard red Dixie party cups? YEAH RIGHT!<br /><br />Even knowing we have too many glasses, I still insist on purchasing the $0.99 Coke glasses from McDonalds every time they're sold. WTH? ENOUGH already! Seriously, I need a glasses intervention STAT.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">2) Cook books-</span> Let's admit a reality: I cook, like, once a week. And, it's usually hot dogs and beans. Last I checked, I didn't learn how to cook up a weiner from Good Housekeepings Top 100 Recipes of 2007. I'm pretty sure I haven't made a new recipe out of a cookbook in at least a year. Despite this fact, I've acquired at least 4 cookbooks in the last 365 days.<br /><br />Another reality: there is only one cookbook I use- it's a homemade one that my Aunt Sher compiled for us as a wedding gift. It's a book of recipes that she gathered from our closest family and friends. <span style="font-size:130%;">I LOVE it.</span> I use it all of the time. In the rare instance than I find a recipe out of another cookbook that we like, I put it into Shennie's cookbook.<br /><br />I need to keep a few cookbooks that I think we'll like and purge the rest of them AND agree to not acquire any more until we're cooking more homemade meals.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">3) George Foreman grills-</span> I'm totally serious. I'm pretty sure we have THREE Foreman grills. Well, maybe we have two. Regardless, I use it (the small one) maybe twice/year. So why is it taking up precious space in our kitchen island? And the other one (the BIG one) is taking up valuable space in the pantry (it takes up about 1/2 of the shelf it resides on). Unacceptable.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">4) Glass baking wear-</span> I rarely cook, yet I own no less than 4 9x13 glass dishes in addition to my CorningWear. Again, in what situation would I have the need to use FOUR glass casserole dishes? It's a similiar situation with glass mixing bowls. I have TWO sets of glass mixing bowls that I NEVER use. When I need mixing bowls, <span style="font-size:130%;">I exclusively use my THREE sets of Pampered Chef bowls AND my TWO sets of Oxo rubber-soled bowls. </span>You read that correctly. I own THREE of the same set of Pampered Chef bowls (side note: I LOVE those bowls and when I do bake or cook, I use them quite a bit, so those were a good investment).<br /><br />If I declutter the aforementioned items, then I'll have more cabinet and pantry space in which to store the stuff that is currently cluttering the counters (blender, toaster, toaster oven, bowls, etc).<br /><br />It would be really nice to walk into the kitchen and have visible countertops.<br /><br />When my house is clean, my life is in order and I tend to eat better, sleep better, exercise and generally be in a fantastic mood. (Side note: let's not assume that once my kitchen is decluttered that I'll drop 20 lbs...but it's a possibility ;)- or maybe that is my procrastination method for nothing having lost more weight!)<br /><br />I'm hoping that with this plan, my world of excess will shrink. I know I don't NEED this stuff and I'd like to do without it.<br /><br />Here's to trying!<br /><br />Cheers!<br /><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-48984115224650957162009-07-13T18:47:00.004-05:002009-07-13T19:54:41.319-05:00I can't seem to find much to blog about these days. Work and fun consume my time, so that doesn't leave time for much else. Having said that, I'm contemplating starting a health care blog. A blog where I can express my thoughts on health care, especially considering all of the attention and urgency that seems to surround that topic these days.<br /><br />I've even gone so far as to design a banner for my not-yet established blog (nothing too fancy-schmancy). I don't want to reveal it b/c I don't want someone stealing it before I actually put the blog together.<br /><br />The reason I'm <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">contemplating</span> another blog is because 1) I barely keep up with this one, am I delusional thinking I could have yet another blog? and 2) everything you do online is traceable and I'd hate to say or do something that someone could construe as me representing my company, rather than just giving my opinion. If I did have one, it would likely be anonymous (except that I would email you the link if you really wanted to follow me....). So, email me if you want to follow my not-yet established health care blog. If/When I start it, I'll let you in on the secret.<br /><br />OK, onto the real blog for today. Another edition of Friend Makin' Monday:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjeqak9IUmCy3sUVejbSylikjXUkKMGpeXkgnGG6nz9CJ9LKBmVI2pGiaxs0WubQOdgxdl69hdDrdJYhtv0GKuao1fAqyxh5_nzA4dYnNYC3WGPhNclsw1XBOy1Q9dBcpsUKatZJMQjg2/s400/friend+makin+monday+for+post.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjeqak9IUmCy3sUVejbSylikjXUkKMGpeXkgnGG6nz9CJ9LKBmVI2pGiaxs0WubQOdgxdl69hdDrdJYhtv0GKuao1fAqyxh5_nzA4dYnNYC3WGPhNclsw1XBOy1Q9dBcpsUKatZJMQjg2/s400/friend+makin+monday+for+post.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;">List 5-10 of your favorite things!</span><br /></div><br />These can be things you think everyone must have, a collection of things you have, or some product or miracle invention that has changed your life <em></em>...it's YOUR list of favorite things...HERE are a SOME of mine!<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">NFL Football (especially The Colts)</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I love watching football! Sunday afternoons in the fall are probably my favorite thing in the world. Football with chili and a fire in the fireplace...I'm in Heaven!<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>Cruising</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Cruises are my escape. In this day and age of cell phones, texting, and non-stop emailing, being out in the middle of the ocean surrounded by beautiful Caribbean blue water with the sun shining down on me is the best get-away I can imagine. If we vacation to Florida or Seattle or New England, as much as I try, I have a difficult time "cutting the cord" from my mobile device. I check work email, personal email, and I text all week. On a cruise is the only time I truly allow myself to be untouchable. It's fantastic and truly a mental break for me. On a cruise, my favorite thing is lying in bed at night with the balcony door open, listening to the waves crash against the ship, and falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the ship.<br /><br />Several people have tried talking us into an all-inclusive resort (instead of a cruise), but the things I love about a cruise are unique to cruising. We'll try a resort...someday.<br /><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>My Laptop</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Despite my aforementioned desire to escape from technology, I really do love my laptop! It's not a Mac (I've never even see a Mac in real life!), but I love it anyway! I love reading blogs and finding new friends online. I used to read up on politics and the news more, but when I committed to simplifying my life, those two were the first things to go. I'd rather find a new, interesting blog than read about what idiotic policies some brain dead politician is trying to force through Congress.<br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Cooper</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZYWJmK8BxrmGJjILXC8NQcNS2U-kD_ASgvOj2CswJUPfUZrC5OpZezbXU3KsVzCACuHiSebJmtHnn05TKBT2WgwrzNLFTG7J9Ky8zXWiLcvS6m_fXGbsNGLRaTrSV7-F2KV-LDxz9SW0/s1600-h/Coopereating.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZYWJmK8BxrmGJjILXC8NQcNS2U-kD_ASgvOj2CswJUPfUZrC5OpZezbXU3KsVzCACuHiSebJmtHnn05TKBT2WgwrzNLFTG7J9Ky8zXWiLcvS6m_fXGbsNGLRaTrSV7-F2KV-LDxz9SW0/s320/Coopereating.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358106752465102434" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I love, love, love our dog, Cooper. I actually feel sorry for people that have a dog that isn't Cooper. He is such a good dog! He's well trained, fun loving, laid back, engaging, loveable little guy. I'm trying to think about anyone that has stayed the weekend with us that hasn't asked us if they could steal him. At Camp Bow Wow, he is dubbed the Wal-Mart greeter since he is known for welcoming the new dogs into the pack. When a dog is dropped off at Camp, he walks over to them, sniffs them up and down, walks them over to the crowd, introduces the dog, then walks away once they are settled in. He is also used as an interview dog since he's such a good dog. Even though he's a good size, he is anything but intimidating. </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">He doesn't bark except when we're in the basement and someone rings the door bell. Thats the ONLY time he barks. </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I LOVE COOPER!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Accessories!</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I love shoes, purses and jewelry. I actually have a very plain wardrobe because I dress outfits up with accessories. Thats the biggest challenge when I travel. I tend to pack 5-7 pair of shoes and 1-2 purses. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Bookstores</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">One of my other favorite things to do besides cruising is to go to a local bookstore, find a few interesting books, grab a latte or fruit smoothie and read parts of each book while sitting in the big comfy chairs. I usually pick up books that I wouldn't normally purchase. Or, I'll read a book that teaches me about something. It's quiet and relaxing. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Organizing Things</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I love most things related to organization. Bins, totes, sorters, boards, anything that is used to keep me organized. I could spend my whole life at The Container Store and Bed, Bath, and Beyond. </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >*confession time*</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> Even during a "quick" run into Target for something, I'll take a small detour through the organization section on my way to the check out lane! I go out of my way to see whats new! </span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I just realized that most things on my list aren't really "things"....like tangible things. It's more things I like doing. Thats OK, right??! Hubs says I'm too practical to have "things" that I love :) He's right! I'd rather spend my money making memories rather than buying things.<br /></div></div><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-45438121584781915092009-06-15T19:15:00.002-05:002009-06-15T19:43:26.094-05:00Confessions<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjeqak9IUmCy3sUVejbSylikjXUkKMGpeXkgnGG6nz9CJ9LKBmVI2pGiaxs0WubQOdgxdl69hdDrdJYhtv0GKuao1fAqyxh5_nzA4dYnNYC3WGPhNclsw1XBOy1Q9dBcpsUKatZJMQjg2/s400/friend+makin+monday+for+post.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjeqak9IUmCy3sUVejbSylikjXUkKMGpeXkgnGG6nz9CJ9LKBmVI2pGiaxs0WubQOdgxdl69hdDrdJYhtv0GKuao1fAqyxh5_nzA4dYnNYC3WGPhNclsw1XBOy1Q9dBcpsUKatZJMQjg2/s400/friend+makin+monday+for+post.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Came across this on <a href="http://kaseyhelder.blogspot.com/">another blog</a> and I'm playing along! </p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:130%;" >Confessions</span></p><p style="text-align: left;">1) I love watching The Disney Channel. Because of Hubs profession (psychologist), we don't watch the news (which is what I used to watch to put me to sleep before we got married) so we decided we needed something <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102); font-weight: bold;">light</span> and <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102); font-weight: bold;">fun</span>, so we usually either fall asleep to Hanna Montana or Wizards of Waverly Place.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">2) We TiVo the aforementioned shows and sometimes I watch them while <strike>shoving clothes into drawers</strike> folding laundry.</p><p style="text-align: left;">3) As a child, I would pretend that the boy I was crushing on could see me all the time. This helped me watch what I eat, sit up straighter in class, and smile more often. </p><p style="text-align: left;">4) <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0); font-weight: bold;">I cash my reimbursement checks from work and keep the money to buy $1 ice cream cones so Hubs doesn't know I eat them when he's not around. </span><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">5) Through someone else's Facebook account, I was able to see pictures of an ex-boyfriend (OK, I only have 2 serious exes so it shouldn't be too difficult to figure out who that is) and he has a beautiful family and he hasn't gained one damn pound. I mean really, who goes 13 years without gaining ANY weight. Bastard.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">6) Occassionally I throw away some of Hubs clothes without his knowledge.</p><p style="text-align: left;">7) I don't go to the lady doctor like I should. It's been...well, years.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">Need to get something off your chest? Play along!<br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-89153094334935706652009-06-05T17:14:00.001-05:002009-06-05T17:14:53.791-05:00Paris<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDvrN6OkDNChLaffLivO18pFdqJ4tGwXGiOpxC_vl_ps4_4mh0FxT9jYXGf96y5A4nyuWjknQNxXkSbUpbJE-ALJz76sS0uJKIFP50mR7uKzbZkTdQMr7Dze0-YbSy1HV14oNCqJYEaN9/s1600-h/IMAGE_132-793792.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDvrN6OkDNChLaffLivO18pFdqJ4tGwXGiOpxC_vl_ps4_4mh0FxT9jYXGf96y5A4nyuWjknQNxXkSbUpbJE-ALJz76sS0uJKIFP50mR7uKzbZkTdQMr7Dze0-YbSy1HV14oNCqJYEaN9/s400/IMAGE_132-793792.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343970511451480786" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>I'm camped out poolside at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. It's perfect.</SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-40894054222908675072009-04-19T14:15:00.003-05:002009-04-19T14:28:54.880-05:00We did it!For many months I've been wanting to make these cupcake pops from <a href="http://bakerella.blogspot.com/2008/04/make-your-cupcakes-pop.html">Bakerella</a>. With the rainy weekend we had, I knew this weekend would be the perfect time to try them. Hubs helped out and he deserves just as much credit for their success. <br /><br />They are quite a bit of work, but well worth it!<br /><br />I think they turned out cute, don't you?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6oSdV7L__IBSRJZOaukcjdV6BdMg64Q9Y-JoHoV6onWtbI1v-tGEfyig97ksj86KFp72t9iY8rTlrIJrdwNqT3gWMXExvIPw36yB9cJFMyJWzD9sAPiCwQtAzU4GSwtNAQkaFY6RvuhV/s1600-h/bakerella1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6oSdV7L__IBSRJZOaukcjdV6BdMg64Q9Y-JoHoV6onWtbI1v-tGEfyig97ksj86KFp72t9iY8rTlrIJrdwNqT3gWMXExvIPw36yB9cJFMyJWzD9sAPiCwQtAzU4GSwtNAQkaFY6RvuhV/s320/bakerella1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326483607684749074" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIY_mItyjxPwSvv0xQGVQPZT93G2lKOO8J7XU0hytidtSui2ntF_AZZtoOlXVyrudUkN7BzfU6B-A2vDKINGoNqMKLlFWpbaPG4LozPDTz2dcxs_TMErmMuAH8Z9qlRQaUnc0b83TsskGt/s1600-h/bakerella2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIY_mItyjxPwSvv0xQGVQPZT93G2lKOO8J7XU0hytidtSui2ntF_AZZtoOlXVyrudUkN7BzfU6B-A2vDKINGoNqMKLlFWpbaPG4LozPDTz2dcxs_TMErmMuAH8Z9qlRQaUnc0b83TsskGt/s320/bakerella2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326483725107998434" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidI0nrbz5EgBrdnZP65o7Tr-CtoPzK9iti_dVutesFBVVe-zLwI1RURV_R4vpVHWgtDOWXxxC6DxMuaW64S8wQvrfGL4CvsE8wXjiPAOLtEDZ5JTLPyt24KmNrLoCITcnH5LWShT7JmxN/s1600-h/bakerella3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidI0nrbz5EgBrdnZP65o7Tr-CtoPzK9iti_dVutesFBVVe-zLwI1RURV_R4vpVHWgtDOWXxxC6DxMuaW64S8wQvrfGL4CvsE8wXjiPAOLtEDZ5JTLPyt24KmNrLoCITcnH5LWShT7JmxN/s320/bakerella3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326483823638317186" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HNk-hE1Q7KJJEypJh0O9IuNtv2Jg1sv84E9OVCA8SH-RzgDUsyC7984aQyzDlwSNf483EYQWCz3OBuuDBZ35ZGvp_RykeqYl2WDTKszF9I1QPy2dQrOkAmxHEk83OK1-vITH9o_pjL_J/s1600-h/bakerella5.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HNk-hE1Q7KJJEypJh0O9IuNtv2Jg1sv84E9OVCA8SH-RzgDUsyC7984aQyzDlwSNf483EYQWCz3OBuuDBZ35ZGvp_RykeqYl2WDTKszF9I1QPy2dQrOkAmxHEk83OK1-vITH9o_pjL_J/s320/bakerella5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326484030482230706" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcUWWGpa8-2-JnAiyZ9zBMaZ3aNNEl2FPPJltUl-1j3uXj4gVbjAIDOrUBdoYic_RvZJtZ9WWcjBZz6-5eeO5Z_Ld3fIXSfuLQTjBAwezBBbXki7UmNH_v_mzvmVS0szYcwb514lBr7jqV/s1600-h/bakerella4.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 318px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcUWWGpa8-2-JnAiyZ9zBMaZ3aNNEl2FPPJltUl-1j3uXj4gVbjAIDOrUBdoYic_RvZJtZ9WWcjBZz6-5eeO5Z_Ld3fIXSfuLQTjBAwezBBbXki7UmNH_v_mzvmVS0szYcwb514lBr7jqV/s320/bakerella4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326484026684016962" /></a><br /><br />We also made just a few regular cupcake bites and here's our pre-consumption cheers!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWfu52OEHX6_3BSFzvq5l8Quv47miYHHMDXTzASq74D7AfTaZ4VD86Dg4uKyccfI11InCgGiTl0cY6RD1pqwX9sq7MWHhkUC-vUGypicGTvSpCEQJJHhzT8eZc5JDvMkdt_Sbu3FlGcSr/s1600-h/bakerella6.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWfu52OEHX6_3BSFzvq5l8Quv47miYHHMDXTzASq74D7AfTaZ4VD86Dg4uKyccfI11InCgGiTl0cY6RD1pqwX9sq7MWHhkUC-vUGypicGTvSpCEQJJHhzT8eZc5JDvMkdt_Sbu3FlGcSr/s320/bakerella6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326484032363319154" /></a><br /><br />It definitely seemed like a two person job. I'm not sure how Bakerella does it by herself. <br /><br />We will for sure make these again. In fact, I hope to be known for them within our family. Craig's Aunt Carol makes these awesomely decorated sugar cookies and everyone looks forward to holidays because they know they'll get to eat some of her cookies. Maybe as I practice making these cupcake bites and become good at them, they'll make me popular at family functions, too :)<br /><p style="text-align: center"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG"/></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-29565400726078775032009-04-06T16:19:00.004-05:002009-04-06T16:31:07.553-05:00Disney gearI'm currently in Orlando at the second largest meeting of Family Physicians in the country. We presented this morning and it was a big success! We got great feedback from those who attended our talk.<br /><br />This afternoon, we headed over to Disney World to hit up the Disney Store. We had hoped to visit the park (Magic Kingdom) but the weather wasn't cooperating.<br /><br />I snagged this really cute and funny mug at the Disney Store. I got an even funnier one, but I think I'll give it as a gift to my older sister.<br /><br />Isn't this too cute?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMu_PqzX74e_s_v2pVyHn6I_X4XbDhzaIniapsKAsXusPVexw_x8pNWYavI5nV8sUDJYgsx6K77BCsysknC9Dc-iNxMRVR2BtqVXulS-TxZJ0RG3EkRnE763dHvtOjxK0UwTgbRLbsLbt/s1600-h/mug1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMu_PqzX74e_s_v2pVyHn6I_X4XbDhzaIniapsKAsXusPVexw_x8pNWYavI5nV8sUDJYgsx6K77BCsysknC9Dc-iNxMRVR2BtqVXulS-TxZJ0RG3EkRnE763dHvtOjxK0UwTgbRLbsLbt/s320/mug1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321693846972819810" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHxUKbVg0USlIU_bJyocAW7VTod4hyMas9OLjlhhB5vjYWj9ssuePtMvP_13DJr73gsP5W3ekMNTuvZuA_MgNBl0leDstJ-Xn_ZuVKaDXzNTZYajBMB4Ec2PJHjULoio58jTrHhp_w2Hc/s1600-h/mug2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHxUKbVg0USlIU_bJyocAW7VTod4hyMas9OLjlhhB5vjYWj9ssuePtMvP_13DJr73gsP5W3ekMNTuvZuA_MgNBl0leDstJ-Xn_ZuVKaDXzNTZYajBMB4Ec2PJHjULoio58jTrHhp_w2Hc/s320/mug2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321693958754881010" /></a><br /><br />Notice the donut in Minnie's right hand and all of the pink in her outfit? Thats totally me....Minnie me ;)<br /><br />Orlando is really fun. Craig and I should trip back here sometime. Alright, time to head out for a seafood dinner with the folks!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnSs_yQ4dld1dCiJes7k3nnJic4sXOpG48JXOygjJbGjOLEkIo1zNtPkwtJSL32i6coYQrwW_L2cBdnaEOWo1E5K1IC5rjaI7mV5e6rTsQC-DPawWlTq-g3YzHQTI2VpKsNmrXwzbK-yG/s1600-h/disney.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnSs_yQ4dld1dCiJes7k3nnJic4sXOpG48JXOygjJbGjOLEkIo1zNtPkwtJSL32i6coYQrwW_L2cBdnaEOWo1E5K1IC5rjaI7mV5e6rTsQC-DPawWlTq-g3YzHQTI2VpKsNmrXwzbK-yG/s320/disney.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321694051343967794" /></a><br /><br /><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-8231331935743278782009-03-24T07:28:00.001-05:002009-03-24T07:28:25.732-05:00Starting over<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJD-wXRp9ZdxjgAdrYc38iTyDK0r7CpfAeIi1t-vr-W6pgQAbYP4M8AxOEezAvycStUcksRlVQ60w8OoL3mNMPG4U4roLcKhJxzeOk71yzym1DzYq-nimn3pueSF-J_NcRmPNXZo4PF95/s1600-h/IMAGE_109-705734.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJD-wXRp9ZdxjgAdrYc38iTyDK0r7CpfAeIi1t-vr-W6pgQAbYP4M8AxOEezAvycStUcksRlVQ60w8OoL3mNMPG4U4roLcKhJxzeOk71yzym1DzYq-nimn3pueSF-J_NcRmPNXZo4PF95/s400/IMAGE_109-705734.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316730158804767186" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>This is how my day started. My coffee cup split in half. I hadn't even taken a sip from it.<br><br>I'm going home and will return to start my day over.<br><br>(Notice the bottle of Vitamin D on my PC stand... Good thing it sought higher ground during the Great Coffee Spill of 2009.)</SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-18538317752513510062009-03-16T12:50:00.001-05:002009-03-16T12:50:38.275-05:00What I'm doing right now....<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qeuKa5wK8LFD6_uC8UCjIq69c7bxUZ2uuCAlUlHsgjHBbYsXMltI_-tXc3jT6FLmbDMy8LBX4jJSr779vDimzqxNIR1lBNCCpdApVuPd4NLWkc1RMW3cBuz_EB_o27ZTHnhZ4Me9QRIo/s1600-h/IMAGE_106-738278.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qeuKa5wK8LFD6_uC8UCjIq69c7bxUZ2uuCAlUlHsgjHBbYsXMltI_-tXc3jT6FLmbDMy8LBX4jJSr779vDimzqxNIR1lBNCCpdApVuPd4NLWkc1RMW3cBuz_EB_o27ZTHnhZ4Me9QRIo/s400/IMAGE_106-738278.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313844513726729666" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>Trying to jump my car!</SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-59555838429703250632009-03-14T17:16:00.000-05:002009-03-14T17:17:15.018-05:00St Pattys festivities<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxq14kvljtRX5_vRmDOJa9LzOD0ZyoThRNp3jIg3OhAWHJ0-lke0azcmGRFUGmhOdYZrp-hFfG12iCkTDpoeCVWauZY2w6MxsVnmh6xSMJkNiOSHJF3DzsjPimX1kvNAJCTK_tEo4no2K/s1600-h/IMAGE_105-735020.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxq14kvljtRX5_vRmDOJa9LzOD0ZyoThRNp3jIg3OhAWHJ0-lke0azcmGRFUGmhOdYZrp-hFfG12iCkTDpoeCVWauZY2w6MxsVnmh6xSMJkNiOSHJF3DzsjPimX1kvNAJCTK_tEo4no2K/s400/IMAGE_105-735020.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313171052507560786" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>This is the greencolada I'm currently enjoying. Yum!</SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-24212437200920647922009-03-03T17:17:00.001-06:002009-03-03T17:17:56.525-06:00She's headache free!<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7sIw7aAcuewwbQGM0TQXIMwdL5GSmHvhILYEnL0G8UapGOu84wh4PGDSEU1dZE4yk1fMoMySJMa-BmGja4q1Y_91CMHooNOtQzm4cFZpNU4lEcZQtIsELGVUeosA3uYYh5xGDMmo6PT4/s1600-h/IMAGE_102-776528.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7sIw7aAcuewwbQGM0TQXIMwdL5GSmHvhILYEnL0G8UapGOu84wh4PGDSEU1dZE4yk1fMoMySJMa-BmGja4q1Y_91CMHooNOtQzm4cFZpNU4lEcZQtIsELGVUeosA3uYYh5xGDMmo6PT4/s400/IMAGE_102-776528.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309104750065648706" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>This is what a headache free mom looks like!<br><br>If you've been following my moms surgery story on facebook, then you know the surgery went well but she's had a monster, non-stop headache ever since.<br><br>Late this afternoon, anesthesiology came by and confirmed it was likely a spinal headache (from the anesthesia yesterday). About 30 minutes ago they took her downstairs where she got a blood patch.<br><br>And now... She's headache free!<br><br>She's like a whole new person! She has said that she could handle the hip pain OR the headache, but not both. Now that shes headache free, shes energetic, smiling and HUNGRY!<br><br>We're so thankful shes back to being Mom :)<br><br>Thanks to all for the happy thoughts and prayers!</SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-9711450887551150102009-02-16T17:52:00.017-06:002009-02-16T18:53:38.830-06:00It's in the bag baby!<a href="http://www.youngandrelentless.com/2009/02/whats-in-my-bag.html">Connie</a> wants to see what in my bag. She thinks I'm organized or something.<br /><br />I own a Butler bag, as seen on Oprah (don't hold that against me).<br /><br />Here's my purse and all of its contents (read the list, even I can't believe some of the stuff in my purse- click for larger images). I enjoyed doing this because it gave me the chance to clean it out:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuyrwXwrHvPxnFaBKvSAKN9gmPtpZIJQ5HQqu5L2rcfL9MJWWtrg4zbZgK-mf6vUuuHX3_rh7oZyacfHMHuuX2IC89LGqQswuRLHP4zOWsMx5yrgXtstLhezg2x-uz8x4MFsCSRWNeM6n/s1600-h/1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuyrwXwrHvPxnFaBKvSAKN9gmPtpZIJQ5HQqu5L2rcfL9MJWWtrg4zbZgK-mf6vUuuHX3_rh7oZyacfHMHuuX2IC89LGqQswuRLHP4zOWsMx5yrgXtstLhezg2x-uz8x4MFsCSRWNeM6n/s200/1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303550395682319474" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWUaiUCXFdJ6nos0C0k8dxA19tczoeEo2e1uQwn_PtDkJjp0AglmgYozkQr0GnEW-RJHHlbleKpo4DrX033ZPpG_a8qEsIhToTb2sN3QEsB_Fp7kmdLdF0udQ9ZanMNX1w_JMkgXzRdzm/s1600-h/2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWUaiUCXFdJ6nos0C0k8dxA19tczoeEo2e1uQwn_PtDkJjp0AglmgYozkQr0GnEW-RJHHlbleKpo4DrX033ZPpG_a8qEsIhToTb2sN3QEsB_Fp7kmdLdF0udQ9ZanMNX1w_JMkgXzRdzm/s200/2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303550587351949426" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzhUsHcNm3FMSB-a4hJRIb077JK5lXQd-iihxoQsJLUaX3Eh_vpScNwl6ThjeOKxY0kphWJkDIqNJ1-D4IPdnJ0rUfHOko-6w2bIk34KhKx5mFbEVLPr9CFjDuI0FUXc-aS4CMjykxyW9/s1600-h/3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzhUsHcNm3FMSB-a4hJRIb077JK5lXQd-iihxoQsJLUaX3Eh_vpScNwl6ThjeOKxY0kphWJkDIqNJ1-D4IPdnJ0rUfHOko-6w2bIk34KhKx5mFbEVLPr9CFjDuI0FUXc-aS4CMjykxyW9/s200/3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303563055347941714" border="0" /></a><br /></div><ol><li>Pink Wallet<br /></li><li>Animal Print Wallet<br /></li><li>Business Card for Lisa from <a href="http://budgetude.com/">Budgetude</a></li><li>My Planner</li><li>Packaged Pens (different colors since I color coordinate my planner)</li><li>Advil</li><li>Visine</li><li>Chapstick</li><li>3 bags of my daily pills (half empty- see my Facebook "25 Things" to learn how I tend to not finish things- this includes my pills!)</li><li>Sunglasses</li><li>Stack of mail</li><li>My high school report card (long story about why this is in my purse)</li><li>A reimbursement check from work</li><li>My Sirius Stiletto</li><li>Two containers of hand sanitizer</li><li>Package of emery boards</li><li>Nametag for the Chamber of Commerce</li><li>A frog pin that a friend gave me</li><li>Contact case</li><li>Cell phone</li><li>Vera Bradley makeup bag</li><li>AZO pills (for my used-to-be-frequent UTIs...have only had ONE in the past 2 years, but I still carry the pills with me "just in case")</li><li>Hair clip</li><li>3 sets of keys</li><li>A funny birthday complete with a stamped envelope (I carry it around so I can drop a card in the mail at the last minute if need be)</li><li>Checkbook with the "Checking" account label (<a href="http://lackadaisicalmotivation.blogspot.com/2009/02/its-deal.html">I LOVE labels!</a>)<br /></li></ol><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWaedQmR794QpMoji9Q0rwqhkXkFnG5sou0qDUw5oOI0-AOga2NEMrvamNxNGFlD5JjBCPzLb7JpeNB8yPCLId0bWf2gFJVmzWckVg1fAtng9o-yjOrVQrrCnwVl4MPjjbzFqWw-Vyt4T/s1600-h/4.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWaedQmR794QpMoji9Q0rwqhkXkFnG5sou0qDUw5oOI0-AOga2NEMrvamNxNGFlD5JjBCPzLb7JpeNB8yPCLId0bWf2gFJVmzWckVg1fAtng9o-yjOrVQrrCnwVl4MPjjbzFqWw-Vyt4T/s200/4.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303551360217397906" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFOiaibVnD4x15A-K9ZPr4xxXtQ81HnNNPwIYhHtXOt7rZXa3biTgyRb73Xp9lxWLRV105jSYZssDiI_Zow6lQ4elfY0LoQeRl92TLChoGJZip2RGbIHpeM2WKsiqhmJgMhYFVb5He2dw/s1600-h/5.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFOiaibVnD4x15A-K9ZPr4xxXtQ81HnNNPwIYhHtXOt7rZXa3biTgyRb73Xp9lxWLRV105jSYZssDiI_Zow6lQ4elfY0LoQeRl92TLChoGJZip2RGbIHpeM2WKsiqhmJgMhYFVb5He2dw/s200/5.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303551474931656738" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPpv3fFbB7YHNhKmuCsPM_rKoSD8LiX96ZdZafVfmfE-caEG7UBfZUT8feC-tQkHtSYACZuCimepuut2WR9nv1UdFASEHI6G3p1UTX2Odl5KL8bdQLhC_-PbHHVCS6HZE_mZS9nstl2l8/s1600-h/6.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPpv3fFbB7YHNhKmuCsPM_rKoSD8LiX96ZdZafVfmfE-caEG7UBfZUT8feC-tQkHtSYACZuCimepuut2WR9nv1UdFASEHI6G3p1UTX2Odl5KL8bdQLhC_-PbHHVCS6HZE_mZS9nstl2l8/s200/6.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303558236465795234" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2gSG1soaEJ1QdTJSQ8xv3xZMSej_53rKmIGZryy_l89l-avme8kZc7ZnuF4rmT14a0EqBjRfN734QcDjIRRscMyYxu1tAz64yK685QXwwY5jMaYRxOJfx41gDk1e2y04MtvoEEUNNlCI/s1600-h/7.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2gSG1soaEJ1QdTJSQ8xv3xZMSej_53rKmIGZryy_l89l-avme8kZc7ZnuF4rmT14a0EqBjRfN734QcDjIRRscMyYxu1tAz64yK685QXwwY5jMaYRxOJfx41gDk1e2y04MtvoEEUNNlCI/s200/7.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303558398841297954" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkEhv01HhhzrjPiUaPe6Z6q-Mv5RWJJPw2DFC-sV2DV68dJybBHZoIncX0PuW_sRh2xEuPbpHgY_O0iaM6agvpBoGdHISLOsaurrHHCEUomxNbc_ST4d15YRiB7ARxJI_1zFoqx9x0NUr/s1600-h/8.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkEhv01HhhzrjPiUaPe6Z6q-Mv5RWJJPw2DFC-sV2DV68dJybBHZoIncX0PuW_sRh2xEuPbpHgY_O0iaM6agvpBoGdHISLOsaurrHHCEUomxNbc_ST4d15YRiB7ARxJI_1zFoqx9x0NUr/s200/8.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303558531755394594" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXDqyc5PWU9w7Nr-laYvpLezpihhafPpxmte2zWF18qPmSfflqTnDcOTjNZXXTHsFGrGGMshLbc2nxGdgtdj8Q_wj3aU6IPodNuSebaok-Zv29GVs5yUpjqqNhu_p3YFfl9V61OZwhBWD/s1600-h/10.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXDqyc5PWU9w7Nr-laYvpLezpihhafPpxmte2zWF18qPmSfflqTnDcOTjNZXXTHsFGrGGMshLbc2nxGdgtdj8Q_wj3aU6IPodNuSebaok-Zv29GVs5yUpjqqNhu_p3YFfl9V61OZwhBWD/s200/10.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303559133373300034" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0uCL-HWf0FT3eZbgvX61cp_4A665u7mZ5jwtAqUMRcMs7mvVXsMmIVSGN8g7dCT-CPemdYYc_2aGdThw96dvZvkteRmyUFp9XT0jZLjo0hRV_FMcf8MRaGT4Vbv-n0VTugp5-MZ6qnsL/s1600-h/11.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0uCL-HWf0FT3eZbgvX61cp_4A665u7mZ5jwtAqUMRcMs7mvVXsMmIVSGN8g7dCT-CPemdYYc_2aGdThw96dvZvkteRmyUFp9XT0jZLjo0hRV_FMcf8MRaGT4Vbv-n0VTugp5-MZ6qnsL/s200/11.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303559297780285922" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBapUA-bnG3ELJebxUClo_2xmrtrunVvaDKVcyyN6j_71XpdqKEAuA-WREcby0Q0_7COhMOmTBGbAPXP1mI_lcgvJ78MN7U6snQpZBcoulosHl6taCLm6tVfLbStAFKO_64knnrts9lJxC/s1600-h/12.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 136px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBapUA-bnG3ELJebxUClo_2xmrtrunVvaDKVcyyN6j_71XpdqKEAuA-WREcby0Q0_7COhMOmTBGbAPXP1mI_lcgvJ78MN7U6snQpZBcoulosHl6taCLm6tVfLbStAFKO_64knnrts9lJxC/s200/12.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303559438059744770" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOacwuVtpJUAttaHY4WTKBNEpxpCD-elKpJCZL_7Tlfbb_e4FSS0xeNrMGiZGNzK9HbjskaODYSf9_FzBHjYjLzpZvzHhw_6CnvhNuM2GHpSA5txGdnIIZmS6LLgS6aaOM7heRC1x78dm/s1600-h/13.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOacwuVtpJUAttaHY4WTKBNEpxpCD-elKpJCZL_7Tlfbb_e4FSS0xeNrMGiZGNzK9HbjskaODYSf9_FzBHjYjLzpZvzHhw_6CnvhNuM2GHpSA5txGdnIIZmS6LLgS6aaOM7heRC1x78dm/s200/13.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303559588028804002" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgsqKBjGA0OXfeVAFEcNZqbyTLqkUBMD2lmRoHoD40klR6T9ACOxOIbaz1fhYiNulhT0wX-agAKRrZeBXD2Sgfyo0zeDTsO9MLZnUPMsx86DwZvvi9kZ5kzw5hXhFgVkyz1QSxVg9_Bgt/s1600-h/14.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgsqKBjGA0OXfeVAFEcNZqbyTLqkUBMD2lmRoHoD40klR6T9ACOxOIbaz1fhYiNulhT0wX-agAKRrZeBXD2Sgfyo0zeDTsO9MLZnUPMsx86DwZvvi9kZ5kzw5hXhFgVkyz1QSxVg9_Bgt/s200/14.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303559737008050834" border="0" /></a>The last pic is the "after" picture-- I got to put everything back in and its a little more organized now. Thanks Connie!<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-88687224005126355682009-02-16T11:33:00.006-06:002009-02-16T11:54:25.504-06:00It's a deal!If you're addicted to organizing and sorting like I am, then chances are, you'll love this deal too!<br /><br />At OfficeMax you can get a Brother label maker for $10! It originally retails for $40, but it's on sale for $10 right now. It is the exact labeler I use at work:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjxJhpxzCYzGdFVU7XneKoC3rrwYp4aB2LyIpS_AQEF-Sybe5l5G25jeUO1tgtJi3K2_YoxXH8uPSWQOfe4sluSzoenpWVLmPnQokNDjjA6VLrLoxf9B6ojb6baV_vglyHcFyokJ53VQk/s1600-h/800768_sk_lg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjxJhpxzCYzGdFVU7XneKoC3rrwYp4aB2LyIpS_AQEF-Sybe5l5G25jeUO1tgtJi3K2_YoxXH8uPSWQOfe4sluSzoenpWVLmPnQokNDjjA6VLrLoxf9B6ojb6baV_vglyHcFyokJ53VQk/s200/800768_sk_lg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303452308422376978" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here's the catch: it's a higher end machine and the tape for it is approx $25/roll. So depending on how much you plan on using a label maker, a $25 recurring expense could be cost-prohibitive (as it was for me).<br /><br />HOWEVER- while looking at label makers, I found a Brother Home and Kitchen labeler for $20 and the replacement tape is only $11. Even though the actual label maker was twice the cost of the other Brother, the recurring costs will be much less; therefore, I went with the Kitchen and Home label maker:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIam_PWGBnLkblQZhgxCUewdR7LeNWWS_Kud3loz2iRCa_DmDHFWaUusWUk_KQ3ZZ1RcbV8uyewivYU5gx3mVH1hE1HbpBF6itJwz6Ef-QAf7fnQZjqPYVrmiJ3l8qSRkWBc6ivQsCYX6d/s1600-h/IMG_4208.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIam_PWGBnLkblQZhgxCUewdR7LeNWWS_Kud3loz2iRCa_DmDHFWaUusWUk_KQ3ZZ1RcbV8uyewivYU5gx3mVH1hE1HbpBF6itJwz6Ef-QAf7fnQZjqPYVrmiJ3l8qSRkWBc6ivQsCYX6d/s200/IMG_4208.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303452769944902802" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This one really is made for Kitchen and Home as it has a Date/Time stamp. If you're someone that labels your food prior to storing it in the freezer, this feature would be helpful. Just click the date/time stamp then print and slap it on the container.<br /><br />I haven't actually used the labeler yet, but will let you know when I do!<br /><br />Blogging has taken a back seat lately....life remains busy for us. We've got family coming into town at the end of the week for Rebecca's Baptism, so Hubs and I have spent some time preparing the house for our guests. I'm SO excited that my Aunt Janet is coming out! My grandparents never made it out to see our house before they passed away, but with Aunt Janet coming, I feel like I would if they were coming. I want everything to be perfect! <br /><br />Ben and Becca are coming over today since Jennie has to work (we have today off for President's day). Ben and Craig will play video games (mostly Mass Effect) and Becca and I will hang out together. She's the bestest goddaughter in the history of goddaughterness. <br /><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-14872280227973946102009-02-15T11:57:00.003-06:002009-02-15T11:59:51.698-06:00Just nowMe: What do you want for lunch, honey?<br />Hubs: Dunno. What are you having?<br />Me: Leftover Red Lobster from the other day when mom and I went at lunch.<br />Hubs: I WANT RED LOBSTER!<br />Me: There's barely enough for me. What else do you want?<br />Hubs: I told you, I want Red Lobster *getting more whiney*<br />Me: I'm sorry, honey, there's not enough. It's just not possible.<br />Hubs: We're in America. Anything is possible.<br /><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-44816950382060894452009-02-10T19:15:00.002-06:002009-02-10T19:16:40.530-06:00Live blogging: outside our house<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1jMn9FRu71gb2tld-yQKw8-99SkZmdxP1_EzL5aD9AKX3y1na-VkjNmSzFNdGeW5sXQz_PZPmXGKfvlh9uPj6bJPNMNYZMCj6mCb7zniu5ii6adexblpoX1KOiYBQC-_H2mTqJbaXjB2/s1600-h/IMAGE_100-701730.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1jMn9FRu71gb2tld-yQKw8-99SkZmdxP1_EzL5aD9AKX3y1na-VkjNmSzFNdGeW5sXQz_PZPmXGKfvlh9uPj6bJPNMNYZMCj6mCb7zniu5ii6adexblpoX1KOiYBQC-_H2mTqJbaXjB2/s400/IMAGE_100-701730.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301342135931268562" border="0" /></a></p><span style="font-weight: normal;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >This is one of three fire trucks currently surrounding our house.<br /><br />Dont't worry. Everything is OK....its at our neighbors house and it doesn't appear to be urgent. Because our house in on a corner lot, we are literally surrounded by big, red flashy trucks.<br /><br />And...men in uniform :)</span>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-58475415446748434592009-02-06T19:36:00.000-06:002009-02-06T19:37:01.694-06:00What I'm doing tonight<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB1eYyMgwSUEIIH9wSxeva_iRNGhEHJ51mP-AGkDff7tcitrPVNCWcXmE1manPS_cPdcFWGQdDPy5KAEls3H7nPbHgCgVDemzj9RzSlAXX1hfgo7yY7RU3nlbv2C3oekPNiUWzopp-v50R/s1600-h/IMAGE_094-721696.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB1eYyMgwSUEIIH9wSxeva_iRNGhEHJ51mP-AGkDff7tcitrPVNCWcXmE1manPS_cPdcFWGQdDPy5KAEls3H7nPbHgCgVDemzj9RzSlAXX1hfgo7yY7RU3nlbv2C3oekPNiUWzopp-v50R/s400/IMAGE_094-721696.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299863461997218242" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>Babysitting Seventeen.<br><br>And I love it.</SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-34123016523124751602009-01-31T09:52:00.000-06:002009-01-31T09:53:03.243-06:00What in the...<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoj8Y_8bE3Kwe4cvK5BqY3yjQXtt4ywdGpCqijwQxyHJe2T-Yp3qaJsMF-P4iXwyV6b5RP2BDCtwWV9RsiyoHHinoZZAt_O0UUr1AXZ7WnsDKcptqEuy5up4QyjfKLr6FZYBxpvFKctlb8/s1600-h/IMAGE_093-783246.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoj8Y_8bE3Kwe4cvK5BqY3yjQXtt4ywdGpCqijwQxyHJe2T-Yp3qaJsMF-P4iXwyV6b5RP2BDCtwWV9RsiyoHHinoZZAt_O0UUr1AXZ7WnsDKcptqEuy5up4QyjfKLr6FZYBxpvFKctlb8/s400/IMAGE_093-783246.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297486464858848578" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>We're sitting outside of Sears, waiting for it to open and theres a chic with a stroller and a giant stuffed duck also waiting to go inside.<br><br>Why would you bring a giant duck to Sears?!<br><br>I witness the wierdest things in this town...last thing I took a pic of with my cell phone were bananas on skateboards.<br><br>Who needs NYC when you have giant ducks and skateboarding fruits?</SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-56881070857237537992009-01-28T17:23:00.002-06:002009-01-28T17:33:46.347-06:00Where we are<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Like most of our friends and family, we've experienced quite a bit of winter weather 'round here. Cooper has especially enjoyed the cold, white, fluffy stuff :)<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I snapped a few pictures yesterday and today. We averaged about 6 inches in the last 24 hours. The clinic opened late today due to the weather. I've not slept well the last two nights b/c I have to wake up and decide whether to open the clinic. Afraid I would sleep through my 5:00am alarm, I pretty much woke up every hour on the hour starting about midnight until 4:30am when I decided to just get up b/c I wasn't sleeping anyway.<br /><br />I'm hoping with the inclement weather behind us, I'll sleep better tonight.<br /><br />Here are a few pics...enjoy! (notice the snow on Coopies nose in the second picture...he's so dang cute!)<br /></div><br />Our patio table out back<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2O_76wtD16Ucr-fq0dZeQrLXWfMdzK-dkIwqBwiqjv2G_KOitBPTJhSFvLydpkPGRaLJ1nuW_kKlijcYbCDdbVDEsFUVbnt8bEWctNyzuhHY0uiTomR0A_agqg-G7DxKaDhVEjFbmjXWs/s1600-h/IMG_4165.JPG"><img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2O_76wtD16Ucr-fq0dZeQrLXWfMdzK-dkIwqBwiqjv2G_KOitBPTJhSFvLydpkPGRaLJ1nuW_kKlijcYbCDdbVDEsFUVbnt8bEWctNyzuhHY0uiTomR0A_agqg-G7DxKaDhVEjFbmjXWs/s400/IMG_4165.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Cooper Dooper<br /></div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRurASeu4YX4YodwjZPFZRGQ2UnTxurdOzZ8blLrqKGtYUBhyphenhyphenKVFizTC9btqOxtvHKZ1Vr_GaGNRYPu90kHYul7Z05Fb_LSvNJ2cOYxT0Or-v8hDmRR__BxOz396g7vOfbANBxp0VGpoVO/s1600-h/IMG_4166.JPG"><img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRurASeu4YX4YodwjZPFZRGQ2UnTxurdOzZ8blLrqKGtYUBhyphenhyphenKVFizTC9btqOxtvHKZ1Vr_GaGNRYPu90kHYul7Z05Fb_LSvNJ2cOYxT0Or-v8hDmRR__BxOz396g7vOfbANBxp0VGpoVO/s400/IMG_4166.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />My car outside the office at about 6 am today<br /></div><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLVh7fuh7ry7p-UG06TL896tOR5dgd3DsD-g3qY6gIjjeBUuvzUlFXeSdQHfU3c3LkwHxnPgzc1J7k_vos_g-lhet0SAA_O_hiJo1-7QKc1MG4f8RP4doEz19zN3K4AH9X6CDK25c4_I0/s1600-h/IMG_4164.JPG"><img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLVh7fuh7ry7p-UG06TL896tOR5dgd3DsD-g3qY6gIjjeBUuvzUlFXeSdQHfU3c3LkwHxnPgzc1J7k_vos_g-lhet0SAA_O_hiJo1-7QKc1MG4f8RP4doEz19zN3K4AH9X6CDK25c4_I0/s400/IMG_4164.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />A picture I snapped on the drive home last night from Scott and Robin's house around 11:30pm. I thought the night was so beautiful; I had to capture it.<br />(P.S. we got a lot more snow after this picture was taken!)<br /></div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJ0PnV9XxtCBvnCLBLVJ3_w9CHm3rW5bNAkAdZozmjxYJzPrQ_kY4ixMBqAYpNDaiEGRkZWMpLChqdnlwaPi7OQ_8WqgsL0gKpf5VYjcy3kcs7qQl6WgpWv78MUT1Qa0qFjnvkH3XLq4G/s1600-h/IMG_4158.jpg"><img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJ0PnV9XxtCBvnCLBLVJ3_w9CHm3rW5bNAkAdZozmjxYJzPrQ_kY4ixMBqAYpNDaiEGRkZWMpLChqdnlwaPi7OQ_8WqgsL0gKpf5VYjcy3kcs7qQl6WgpWv78MUT1Qa0qFjnvkH3XLq4G/s400/IMG_4158.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" alt="Posted by Picasa" style="border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="middle" border="0" /></a></div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-22214753220931237752009-01-21T19:08:00.006-06:002009-01-21T19:28:51.027-06:00My new favoritesI have two favorite new gadgets.<p style="text-align: left;">1- The <a href="http://www.danedigital.com/6-Zpen/">Z-Pen digital pen</a> I got for Christmas. It's a pen that digitally remembers what I wrote and then plugs into my PC and downloads the notes I took and saves either as an image or as a PDF. I LOVE IT! I use it all the time at work. There is also OCR capabilities, but I haven't installed the software to do that. Its working just as I need it to, so why bother :)</p><p style="text-align: left;">2- <a href="http://www.buythebullet.com/">The Magic Bullet</a> (get your mind out of the gutter...it's a blender).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQuqpIvqGZw_gAQtP3hnFhkqtTrL8UceVARxle14RAyWzXYcgxFA2sOWChNxJ1Cym45eBiabJmgrQKITzVYlPooPPIYnLXc8FH-MPIu4Og0B9YxlzXdKdI6gdAL-HEYCFlr-oEmtQyZkP/s1600-h/the-magic-bullet.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQuqpIvqGZw_gAQtP3hnFhkqtTrL8UceVARxle14RAyWzXYcgxFA2sOWChNxJ1Cym45eBiabJmgrQKITzVYlPooPPIYnLXc8FH-MPIu4Og0B9YxlzXdKdI6gdAL-HEYCFlr-oEmtQyZkP/s200/the-magic-bullet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293920334095206178" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: left;">I make no less than 2 fruit smoothies a day (usually one for me and one for Hubs). They're soooo quick and easy using TMB. You literally put the ingredients into the cup, screw on the blade, blend for about 10 seconds, and then take off the blade, put on the colored ring and drink! I cut up the fruit before I put it in the cup (helps it fit better), but you don't even have to do that. You could just throw in strawberries and 2 banana halves, add crushed ice and some OJ...blend and BAM!<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">I've also made hummus and guacamole using TMB.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">My favorite thing is that the blender becomes the mug. You don't blend the ingredients and then pour the smoothie into a cup.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">My Sister-in-love asked for one for Christmas, so before we purchased it for her, I got online to research it b/c I didn't know what TMB was or how it worked. Then when we tripped down to KY for New Years, I picked one up (on a whim) at Costco. The mother-in-love got one, too. I couldn't be happier with this snap decision purchase!<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">Without a doubt, it is one of the best purchases I've made in a long time.</p><p style="text-align: left;">They cost about $50...but if you catch a sale, you can get 'em for less than $40.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">It's definitely worth the price. I use mine twice a day, MINIMUM. I've already used it 3 times today :)</p><p style="text-align: left;">The most difficult part of eating healthy is keeping enough fruit around to make the smoothies. I've already RUN OUT of strawberries and bananas...TWICE! Seriously, how many of you ever imagined I would complain about not having enough FRUIT around?<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">You can make much more than just smoothies. Besides the aforementioned hummus and guacamole, you can also make salsa, chop onions, veggies, etc for salads, recipes, salad dressing and a lot more.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I'm in love!<br /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-13352825939657010022008-12-21T07:57:00.002-06:002008-12-21T08:25:52.167-06:00Christmas Menu<span style="font-weight:bold;">Appetizers:</span><br /><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Hot-Crab-Dip-2/Detail.aspx">Hot Crab Dip</a> with crackers<br /><a href="http://southernfood.about.com/od/stuffedmushrooms/r/blbb62.htm">Stuffed Mushrooms</a> <br />Shrimp with homemade cocktail sauce<br />Cheese and Crackers<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dinner:</span><br />Honey Baked Ham<br /><a href="http://www.grouprecipes.com/12808/funeral-potatoes.html">Funeral Potatoes</a><br />Green beans<br /><a href="http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detail.asp?recipe=2718">Zucchini Parmesan</a> <br />Croissants<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dessert:</span><br /><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/Dutch-Apple-Pie-43990">Dutch Apple Pie</a><br />(it's to die for!)<br /><br /><p style="text-align: center"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG"/></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-67139545215140632242008-12-17T21:26:00.001-06:002008-12-17T21:26:12.764-06:00Precious<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFQ6Sv1wiNLVJwPmghttT4fcv4HC6iGKW571XyDZh3IFF2bbcLQwOJsLcWC6Wb4J9VnzPD3nyjBOYXLlndhsEbQAVVoYnbICusH-gxey8ftBPGVy14gcHmA981AvYYJvu_2ZUiU7O4KSA/s1600-h/IMAGE_083-772766.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFQ6Sv1wiNLVJwPmghttT4fcv4HC6iGKW571XyDZh3IFF2bbcLQwOJsLcWC6Wb4J9VnzPD3nyjBOYXLlndhsEbQAVVoYnbICusH-gxey8ftBPGVy14gcHmA981AvYYJvu_2ZUiU7O4KSA/s400/IMAGE_083-772766.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280966254842653842" /></a></p><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-WEIGHT:Normal;'>Isn't he too much? Our buddy after another day at camp. He loves it there! </SPAN>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-32595485162718249512008-12-16T16:43:00.003-06:002008-12-16T16:50:27.088-06:00My Elf gearI had other plans for tonight, but due to a scheduling mix up with the organization, I'm free tonight and have rescheduled the event for another evening.<br /><br />I guess it works out because I have a nice pot roast I'm making for dinner. <br /><br />My Christmas gear is helping me get into the holiday spirit....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3293/3113708753_b8be94015f.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 467px; height: 311px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3293/3113708753_b8be94015f.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I love toe socks. I know they freak some people out, but they keep me so toasty and warm! <br /><br />In the pic, I'm wearing jeans and my half apron, which was my outstanding purchase this weekend. I already have 2 other aprons (which desperately need a good washing) but I saw this half apron and really wanted it. I rarely wear a full apron properly. I usually fold it in half and tie it around my waist b/c the "halter" top of most aprons really bothers me when I'm cooking. So, this super cute half apron is just what I need. <br /><br />It's very Bree from DH.<br /><br />Now, if I could only be a size -2 and have glowing red hair, I'd be set!<br /><p style="text-align: center"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG"/></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-25384479784324236612008-12-15T20:38:00.005-06:002008-12-15T21:03:19.236-06:00Welcome to our home!<a href="http://boomama.net/">BooMama</a> is gracious enough to host the 2008 Christmas Tour of Homes. For the tour of homes, you snap some photos of your home decorated for the holidays and then post them on your blog.<br /><br />Welcome to our home!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3249/3112422954_3e9e49199b.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3249/3112422954_3e9e49199b.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/3112360954_aed421fda2.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/3112360954_aed421fda2.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3181/3111528343_9e3beca04a.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3181/3111528343_9e3beca04a.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/3112361148_ba2f60ee8c.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/3112361148_ba2f60ee8c.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/3112361232_7316987076.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/3112361232_7316987076.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3274/3111528623_6cc36e78cb.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3274/3111528623_6cc36e78cb.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3126/3112361424_88a78dc984.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3126/3112361424_88a78dc984.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3187/3111528837_0a710979d8.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3187/3111528837_0a710979d8.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3273/3112361642_2c833b7275.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 333px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3273/3112361642_2c833b7275.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/3112361834_9dab1d66b7.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/3112361834_9dab1d66b7.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3032/3112361966_2403844eea.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3032/3112361966_2403844eea.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3232/3112362266_e9b146eb3b.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; 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display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3008/3111530111_0e48669793.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3061/3111530239_266962483b.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3061/3111530239_266962483b.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/3112362936_fab1545538.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/3112362936_fab1545538.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3251/3111530463_bcc1832a32.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3251/3111530463_bcc1832a32.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG" /></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-21983611190408025272008-12-14T17:19:00.002-06:002008-12-14T17:27:23.129-06:00What to doWhat do you do when Facebook suggests you add your college arch nemesis as a friend?<br /><br />Do you laugh in Facebook's face? <br /><br />Do you ignore the suggestion?<br /><br />Or, do you just smile and remember that you are who you are because of everything you've encountered in life, both good and bad? <br /><br /><p style="text-align: center"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG"/></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7680913613032436707.post-64599094939075612622008-12-12T15:48:00.002-06:002008-12-12T17:36:05.181-06:00Question of the dayFrom the <a href="http://www.ksdk.com/news/health/story.aspx?storyid=162352">Associated Press</a>:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">"New research adds fresh hope that a drug that strengthens bones might also fight breast cancer."</span><br /><br />Question of the day:<br /><br />What other substance strengthens bones and has been proven to fight breast cancer?<br /><br />I'd put my substance (let's call it....."D") up against the drug mentioned in the AP article any day of the week for a number of reasons. <br /><br />Let's compare "X" and "D."<br /><br />1) The <span style="font-weight:bold;">most common</span> side effects of taking "X" is fatigue, nausea, vomiting, bone pain, headache, fever, shortness of breath, anemia, constipation, or lack of appetite. The <span style="font-weight:bold;">most common</span> side effects of taking "D" is healthier cells, reduction in new cancer incidence, weight loss, strong bones, etc. <br /><br />2) The avg cost of receiving "X" is $9,600 per total treatment ($1,200 per infusion, infusions are typically given every three weeks for four to six months). For $9,600 you could purchase enough "D" to last you for 496 years. Or, you could purchase a 1 year supply of "D" for 496 people. <br /><br />3) To receive "X" you must see a specialist and be given a prescription. To receive "D" you must log onto the internet and purchase capsules that contain optimal doses of 5,000 IU which will be delivered to your home by the mailman. <br /><br />4) Treatment "X" is administered via IV infusion every three weeks for four to six months. Treatment "D" is a pill to be taken once/day at any time of the day, with or without food.<br /><br />5) In the published materials for "X," it is recommended that in addition to receiving "X" you need to also take "D" on a daily basis.<br /><br />Side Note: Dr. Davis, my cardiology friend, posted <a href="http://heartscanblog.blogspot.com/2008/12/another-case-of-aortic-valve-disease.html">yet another entry</a> about a patient with aortic valve disease that REVERSED. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">A patient who previously had a leaky heart valve no longer has a leaky heart valve.</span> <br /><br />When the patient had a leaky heart valve, the patient was placed on 4,000-8,000 IU of our aforementioned mysterious substance I'm still referring to as "D." An echocardiogram many months later indicated NO leakage from the heart valve. <span style="font-weight:bold;">None.</span> <br /><br />This doctor has several patients that previously had leaky heart valves and no longer do. Although the good doctor doesn't "want to extrapolate too far from the experience of one person," he's seen this more and more over the last year. <br /><br />My grandma on my dad's side had aortic valve disease and ended up receiving a pig's valve as a replacement to her own damaged valve. We used to joke with her and snort like a pig when we walked by her (she thought it was hilarious...well, only the times where her hearing actually picked up on the fact that we were snorting and not passing gas, which she often thought we were doing when we made those noises). <br /><br />So, hopefully I've answered the question of the day. Now, my work is done and I must wrap gifts. <br /><br /><br /><p style="text-align: center"> </p><br /><p style="text-align: center"><img src="http://www.craigandjessica.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2008/07/signature.PNG"/></p>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558522577659569516noreply@blogger.com1