tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76429825661299131462023-11-16T04:07:51.602-08:00Recipes for LifeRecipes and Ramblings of a Mom & HomemakerCandace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-39482549917631960522013-11-26T14:32:00.001-08:002014-06-17T21:58:35.066-07:00Hailee's Birth StoryIt has been forever and a day since my last post, but I wanted to share my birth story while it's still fresh in my head. Forewarning, this will be long, so here it goes!
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Ever since my last labor experience with my first daughter, I've prayed to start this one naturally, and avoid being induced. I recently got into using doTERRA essential oils for self-care, and started using Clary Sage essential oil on my tummy and certain reflex points daily once I hit 38 weeks gestation (when you're considered full-term). I hoped to use my mood oils as well during the labor.
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Sunday, Nov. 17th, I went on a good walk up the foothills with my mom to try and get contractions going. I started having mild contractions that evening, but they eventually subsided for me to go to sleep.
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Monday, Nov. 18th, when I woke up, I noticed I was having mild contractions about every half hour. I didn't think anything of them, since I was certain they were false labor. That afternoon, my mom came over and we walked around my neighborhood. I noticed a good deal of lower pelvic pressure when I got contractions (like Hailee's head being pressed down), and after the walk they were coming every 20-25 minutes and were uncomfortable. By 7PM however, they stopped and so I decided to take a shower and go to bed.
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I hopped in the shower at 8PM and immediately, I had 3 strong contractions in the span of 15 minutes. It was as if the relaxation of the water triggered them. I got ready for bed, and started to diffuse my Clary Sage oil in the room, along with a mood grounding oil blend called "Balance". Once I was lying down, the contractions were coming every 20 minutes. This time though, I could not lay down through them. I had to stand up and lean on the bed to get through the discomfort. The pain was dull, but not too bad. This went on from 9PM to 12AM, and in that time frame, I noticed they went from every 20 minutes to 15 minutes, then finally 10 min. apart.
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I hopped in the tub knowing that if they were real, the warm water would boost them along. Usually a warm bath will stop false labor. Well, once I was in the tub they were coming every 6-9 minutes, and were getting painful. Somewhere in that time frame, it clicked that I was in real labor! I had to breathe through them, concentrate on relaxing my body (it's true they hurt more when you're tense), and I couldn't talk. Finally by 2:00AM, we decided to call my mom.
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Once she arrived to stay with my oldest daughter, my husband and I packed the car and drove to the hospital. The contractions in the car felt worse. Sitting and laying down just were not comfortable. When we arrived, they put us in triage where they monitored my contractions for about an hour. They were about 7 minutes apart, and when the nurse checked me, I was 100% effaced and 5cm dilated, and they could feel the water bag bulging. So I was definitely in active labor.
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They took us to our delivery room, and by this time, the contractions were painful and causing me to shake (even though I wasn't cold). I was open to laboring naturally longer, but the anesthesiologist was getting ready to go into a surgery, and so I decided to get the epidural then since it was already 4AM, I was exhausted from no sleep, and didn't know how long he would be.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoA-4VLjAlWOXIMvfZZYlBmdPgIfGAuNU0OMiI-U3FbgB7muXKFFQYwkhq58Jl6A6GnCdiolXZgZaN1vN4TNj3DoUg3wsJ9dMKVM1VqxQwGuoMy4YqvAA7nIt5MGDnz40vfkc-ZCf6WI/s1600/IMG_3778.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/AVvXsEgZoA-4VLjAlWOXIMvfZZYlBmdPgIfGAuNU0OMiI-U3FbgB7muXKFFQYwkhq58Jl6A6GnCdiolXZgZaN1vN4TNj3DoUg3wsJ9dMKVM1VqxQwGuoMy4YqvAA7nIt5MGDnz40vfkc-ZCf6WI/s1600/IMG_3778.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
The epidural was a breeze. They give you a local numbing shot first, and then the actual epidural feels like back pressure. The anesthesiologist I had was wonderful! He was very attentive to how I was feeling, and was very quick. Once I was all set up, I was feeling anxious at this point, and so I applied the Balance oil blend on my chest. The calming effects of the oil were amazing, I recall enjoying the aroma of the oil, and feeling very relaxed mentally. By this point it was almost 5AM, so my husband unfolded the chair next to my bed (they fold out into a bed), and we both got comfortable and rested.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0r0rJpGd9RC4UEVDd_vCML3wME7N-U_riPkUqL_nuCfaswnur0yxBzH2Wt9VdzD-GeQm5LPMXZyluFRR00-0zCOrB1fLp6EzhRRjTD14RcCkUbKr6Rtaogg49ezN4_VZsr8627dOvOE/s1600/IMG_3787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0r0rJpGd9RC4UEVDd_vCML3wME7N-U_riPkUqL_nuCfaswnur0yxBzH2Wt9VdzD-GeQm5LPMXZyluFRR00-0zCOrB1fLp6EzhRRjTD14RcCkUbKr6Rtaogg49ezN4_VZsr8627dOvOE/s1600/IMG_3787.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>
For the next couple hours, we both rested and savored the time before our daughter would arrive. I remember listening to her steady heartbeat on the monitor, watching the sun rise from our window (we were on the 3rd floor), and feeling very excited! I was also so happy that I got to start naturally, and experience laboring at home. By 6:30AM they broke my water and said I was 7cm dilated.
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At 7:40AM they said I was 7-8cm dilated, and from there, the delivery was almost a blur! No sooner did they leave the room, that I felt pressure to use the bathroom, and within the next minute I felt the urgent need to push! The sensations were intense, I suddenly felt everything! The discomfort was sudden, and it felt like my body was pushing without me doing anything. We pushed the nurse call button, but no one answered. I told my husband that the baby was coming now, and so he ran out of the room to get someone. In a couple minutes, everyone was bustling in the room and my body had jumped to 10cm, and Hailee's head was right there!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbVZ6u-KgfzgIck9NejCjw9SCnjOTsmjV5q0KqP1F0mvlujpTEmr3mmtyDsr1tWz5wwIidzHbuI5liEzN432Ka1uShTf-94XZRWiyPxe6-OOUDYaGxM0uO8AgMH0bE4XHUCLeu4ORdNo/s1600/IMG_3789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbVZ6u-KgfzgIck9NejCjw9SCnjOTsmjV5q0KqP1F0mvlujpTEmr3mmtyDsr1tWz5wwIidzHbuI5liEzN432Ka1uShTf-94XZRWiyPxe6-OOUDYaGxM0uO8AgMH0bE4XHUCLeu4ORdNo/s1600/IMG_3789.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a>They told me not to push for a minute so they could get everything ready, but it felt as if my body was on autopilot, and I couldn't do anything about it. The need to push was greater than anything I've experienced. When I finally started pushing, I could feel everything again. I'll spare the details and just say that the "ring of fire" is a pretty accurate statement to describe the feeling of a baby's head crowning. I cried some with the pain, but in just 5 strong pushes, Hailee's head popped out and the relief was my second wind! From there I pushed as hard as I could. <br />
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The nurses told me "<i>open your eyes mama</i>!" and when I did, I could see Hailee's little head and body emerge up in the nurses hands! I wasn't sure if I was going to cry, and as they placed her on my chest, I lost track of every sensation from there. Everything had gone so smooth, I was almost in shock!
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Hailee was born Tuesday, November 19th at 8:02AM. She weighed 6 lbs. 3 oz. and was 19.75 inches long. Shortly after her birth, my husband got to anoint the crown of her head with doTERRA frankincense essential oil.
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After our bonding hour, and first successful breastfeeding, we were taken to our recovery room. The effects of the epidural didn't last, and I could stand and walk pretty quickly, use the bathroom, and take a shower. I have been amazed at how much better I felt with this delivery. I felt ready to leave the hospital that day!
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Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better, smoother, more enjoyable labor and delivery! And most of all, I'm thankful for another beautiful healthy baby girl! <br />
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<br />Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-79300559545718622282013-09-02T13:07:00.002-07:002013-09-02T13:07:55.348-07:00A Little UpdateWell it's about time I sit down and catch up on this thing! It's so easy to get caught up in life these days, I forget I even have a blog at times.<div>
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Pregnancy has been going well. I am now 7 months pregnant, and feel like a diabetic diet pro! We found out that we are expecting another baby girl, Hailee Camille! I'm so excited for Emilee to have a little sister! Having a younger sister myself, I just can't wait for Em to have the same experiences. </div>
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Our little Hailee is due this Thanksgiving, and I am beyond excited to celebrate the holidays with a new little bundle in tote! I'm also looking forward to Emilee experiencing more this year, from trying all the different foods (our little angel has 12 teeth now!), to successfully opening presents on her own, and helping us pick out a tree. </div>
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Of course, before we reach the holidays, we're working on getting through this blistering hot summer! While I'm looking forward to cooler weather, and hopefully some rain in our sunny southern California climate, I'm very excited to say that my husband and I have recently been blessed with a boat to enjoy our heated summer! It's a classic aluminum ski boat from the 60's, in wonderful condition, sold to us by my Granddad. My husband has been working on tuning up the engine with my dad, and today it goes out for a test run! Looking forward to cooling off at a lake or river with our new toy very soon, and taking little Emilee out on the water. </div>
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Anyway, hopefully I remember to find more time to catch up on here soon. Hope everyone's well and staying cool!</div>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-7842641577098894902013-04-29T01:11:00.001-07:002013-04-29T01:11:34.756-07:00Pregnancy and Gestational DiabetesI have announced it everywhere else... except on my blog. My husband and I are expecting our 2nd baby, due this November!<div>
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My daughter is now 1 year old, and minus the new onset of toddler tantrums, she is growing to be such a sweet girl! Her first year flew by, and I have to admit... it seemed like a breeze! She is such an easy baby, and having a 2nd has me feeling slightly nervous. One baby between two parents is pretty simple. Two kids? This will be interesting! However, regardless, I am very excited to be blessed with another child, and to be able to give Emilee a sibling.</div>
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This pregnancy though, has been proving to be much more challenging than my first. My first was perfect. No complications, and very mild nausea. While the nausea with this pregnancy is even easier... the fatigue is out of the ballpark. Not to mention, at 7 weeks pregnant, I had a bleeding scare that had me in urgent care on Easter for half of the day. Thankfully, everything turned out to be just fine... but things got more difficult shortly after.</div>
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I was diagnosed early with gestational diabetes (the placenta's hormones are interfering with my body's insulin production). That being said, I am now on a special diet, limiting my carbohydrates and sugar, and have to prick my finger for a blood test 4 times a day. </div>
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Now I thought the blood tests would be the worst thing... just the opposite. They don't bother me at all, but the diet has been making my 1st trimester very difficult. Let's just say when you limit a pregnant woman's diet and omit specific cravings... mood swings are bound to happen.</div>
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I am not allowed to have candy, desserts, soda, or anything with sugar. Fruit is about the only thing, but even that is in moderation. Carbs are limited as well. Breads must be multi-grain, and I am only allowed 15g for breakfast, and 30g at lunch and dinner. Milk is off-limits in the morning as well, but okay later in the day.</div>
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As a result of this diet, I have not gained any weight yet, and will be 10 weeks along this Tuesday. I have already received a comment about being awfully skinny to be pregnant... and I am worried about gaining enough healthy weight for the baby. Thankfully, the 1st trimester isn't a big concern with weight gain (or even loss). I have a feeling that I have lost personal weight, but have gained baby weight, and remained the same weight. </div>
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Despite the emotional and physical stresses that come with gestational diabetes, I am very happy that our baby is healthy and growing! I already know from experience that children are worth the painful labor. So I know that this very short period of discomfort in my life, is well worth the precious baby we will have in the future.</div>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-11644510358988614512013-02-28T13:27:00.005-08:002013-02-28T13:28:37.180-08:00Ingredients for a Healthy Marriage<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I must admit, I found these marriage ingredients on Dave Willis's website: <a href="http://davewillis.org/7-ingredients-that-make-a-healthy-marriage/">http://davewillis.org/7-ingredients-that-make-a-healthy-marriage/</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He really put together a great foundation of "ingredients", and I couldn't agree with him more! I give full credit to Dave for this post, I just had to share and include some of my own personal thoughts along with his (<b><i><span style="color: #783f04;">my thoughts being the bold-brown text</span></i></b>).</span><br />
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<strong style="word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Laughter.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #333333;">I believe that laughter is the lifeline of marriage. In good times and bad, you’ve got to be able to laugh with your spouse. A marriage with no laughter is a sign of a marriage in deep trouble. Find reasons and ways to laugh together.</span><i> <b><span style="color: #783f04;">(I whole-heartedly agree with this. I would also include, minimizing how much we laugh "at" each other. Teasing can have it's place and fun, but too much can bring corrosion into a relationship.)</span></b></i></span></span></div>
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<strong style="word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Communication.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Between the two of us, my wife and I have 3 higher education degrees in Communication and we still have to work at communicating well in our marriage (like with most things, she’s a lot better at it than me). It doesn’t come naturally for anybody! Every husband and every wife has to be intentional about being a good listener and clearly communicating. Spend more time going on walks, going on drives, going out to dinner and being in settings that promote conversation.</span></div>
<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>(This takes constant practice! My husband and I have been together 8 years, attended counseling, and while we've gotten much better, we still have our moments. The biggest keys to good conversation I believe are: listening, asking questions, and say "I" instead of "you" - simple ex: "I feel angry" instead of "You make me angry".)</i></b></span></div>
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<strong style="word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Sex.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">Right now, all the guys are thinking, “</span><strong style="color: #333333; word-wrap: break-word;"><em style="word-wrap: break-word;">Why wasn’t this number one?!</em></strong><span style="color: #333333;">” Sex is vital to a healthy marriage. It’s a God-given gift to promote oneness, intimacy, and pleasure (in addition to procreation). Make sex a priority. If things are healthy in the bedroom, everything starts getting healthier. </span><b><i><span style="color: #783f04;">(Sometimes it can be hard to make this a priority especially when one person is tired, or not in the mood, but freely giving yourself to your spouse is a gift in itself and can make a positive impact on a marriage.) </span></i></b></span></div>
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<strong style="word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Friendships.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">In to many marriages, the wife has her set of friends and the husband has his and they rarely or never connect socially. You need “couple friends” that you share together. My wife and I have always had a Small Group through our church and those relationships have been a great source of laughter, joy and encouragement for both of us. </span><b><i><span style="color: #783f04;">(My husband and I are very lucky to have a combined group of friends. Rather than separating us, hanging out with our friends brings us together. While I love and enjoy occasional "girl days", it's wonderful to be able to have fun with my husband next to me, and build memories together.)</span></i></b></span></div>
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<strong style="word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Goals.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">Couples shouldn’t just plan together, they should dream together. Without common goals and dreams for each other and for your family, you will be like a ship without a compass. Dream big and help each reach those dreams. </span><span style="color: #783f04;"><i><b>(Perfectly said!)</b></i></span></span></div>
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<strong style="word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. Celebration.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">When goals are reached or milestones achieved, spouses should celebrate together! Your marriage should be full of moments of celebration. Celebrate together privately and find ways to celebrate life’s victories and moments with your extended family and friends. Even in life’s toughest seasons, there are still plenty of excuses to have a party! </span><b><i><span style="color: #783f04;">(This is so true! My husband recently turned 30, and as a gift, I took him to his favorite band's concert. While I expected him to be excited, just the act of going out together to celebrate brought a renewed sense of closeness, like those feelings of first dating. So I 100% agree, find reasons to celebrate!)</span></i></b></span></div>
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<strong style="word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. Faith.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">If these were in order of importance, Faith would easily be at the top! God invented marriage and without Him, I’m convinced that no marriage can be what He intended it to be. Pray together, study God’s Word together and allow Him to direct your paths. He is the one who can hold you together even when the world feels like it’s falling apart.</span><i><b><span style="color: #783f04;"> (Without faith, I can honestly say, I would not have the beautiful marriage I have today. When my world was falling apart, and I was weak, God kept me strong. The results were blessings I couldn't even have imagined. Have faith in your marriage!)</span></b></i></span></div>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-36569434402443923112013-01-30T16:56:00.001-08:002013-01-30T16:56:21.610-08:00On Raising Boys: A Journey in Raising GentlemenTo mix things up a bit, the following is a guest post by a mom who has three young boys, and her experience with raising them up to be gentlemen for their future wives. Enjoy!<br />
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<i>As a mother to three active and energetic little boys, I strive to instill on a daily basis values and morals that I find most important when raising young men. With a majority of research claiming that boys learn from their father on how to be a man, and how to treat women, I come to you with this question: "why can’t mothers do just the same"? After all, who knows more about how a woman wants to be treated than a woman herself, right? This is not to discount that dad’s play a very important role in raising young gentlemen as well, because let's face it ladies, our boys will eventually turn out like their dads in certain respects (isn’t that one of the reasons we married them?). ;) Now bear in mind that I am teaching my boys far more than what I could possibly write here, but this will be just a glimpse of the greatest job I have been given - raising gentlemen.</i><br />
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<i>It is never too early to teach our boys the importance of being a gentleman. If anything, it just gives them more time to get accustomed to it and make it a daily mindset rather than a “for dates only” mindset. While our youngest boy (only 18 months old) is too young to understand most of the values and morals I'm trying to instill, it does not deter me from including him in my daily routines to help raise these young men of mine. Even with the smallest of gestures to include the boys in my personal daily routine, I have seen the boys blossom into young gentlemen.</i><br />
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<i>My oldest son loves to complement me on my hair after it's been blow-dried in the morning. He loves to run his fingers through it during a cuddly family movie night. He is also the first one to notice a new haircut or style/color change. I love this about my oldest, and encourage this behavior. Noticing simple changes and complementing are values that will take him far in his relationship with his future wife. As a result, he will make her feel beautiful on a daily basis (what woman wouldn't want that?). </i><br />
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<i>Our middle son adores complementing my nails. Every time I come back from getting a pedicure, he is the first to notice and say how pretty my toes look. He also gives me his input by telling me what color or design I should get next time. I love that he not only complements me on something that's usually overlooked, but he also strives to be involved in the process. While it may not mean much to a 4-year old boy that his mommy’s toes look nice, the value I hope to instill by encouraging this behavior is monumental. This will benefit his future marriage when he takes a sincere interest in his wife’s hobbies, or supports her even if he has no direct enjoyment/connection to them. By encouraging this, I hope to instill the desire to make his future wife happy, and share in the joy with her.</i><br />
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<i>To go beyond the daily routine and instill values on another level, our family started a new tradition: Mother/Son date nights. Not only do these dates offer a great way to teach gentleman-like values, but they also allow for quality one-on-one mother/son time (something quite rare in a typical busy family of 5). I use these date nights to teach the boys specific gentlemen values such as: opening doors for others, and proper restaurant manners. However, it goes beyond simple etiquette. These times are also for letting the boys explore their creativity, and practice their planning skills. There is no denying the joy and excitement that comes from our spouse, fiancé, or significant other planning an entire date based on our own personal likes. Knowing that they took the time to create a night devoted to our enjoyment makes us feel loved beyond belief, and keeps the cycle continuing, as we in turn want to do something special just for them. So, by allowing my boys to create/plan the date night and letting their imaginations work, I hope to instill the foundations for their future dates - my goal being to encourage spontaneity and the creative desire to try new things (even if it's something they don't particularly like). After all, their future wife may have different likes, and it’s important for my boys to encourage those likes and participate in them as well.</i><br />
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<i>I will continue to share these moments with my boys for as long as I can. I admire their ability to grasp and learn at such a young age, and I hope that they will one day thank me for these memories. Maybe, if I’m really lucky, I’ll even get a thank you from my future daughter-in-laws as well. ;) For now though, I’m just soaking up these precious moments with my 3 little guys, and holding on to the childhood within them. For all too soon they will be off in the dating world all on their own, and I will only be able to hold my breathe and pray that what I taught them now will carry into their adult lives. </i>Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-58394650178963411632013-01-22T12:27:00.002-08:002013-01-22T12:27:43.192-08:00Marriage is like a Roller CoasterI find myself compelled to dedicate a post to my husband, who without, I would not be where I am today. <br />
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Marriage is a lot like a roller coaster. From a distance, it looks exciting, intimidating, fun, and even scary for some. The anticipation standing in line (like dating) can have your head spinning in a multitude of emotions: excitement, curiosity, and thrills of the unknown. When you finally get on the ride (engagement), you are committed. There's only a limited amount of time to change your mind, and once you're going it can set your heart racing, and your stomach butterflies to swarming. The very first plunge (getting married) can take your breath away, and the remainder of the ride is the marriage journey. <br />
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A roller coaster has many ups, downs, and tricks. It cannot continue to go straight up, it's impossible. As is marriage without problems. Marriages will always have their bumps along the way, there's no way around it. However, if a roller coaster were to go straight down, it would eventually crash into the ground, ending the ride (this can represent divorce). <br />
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If you continue to ride the roller coaster though, you start to realize that it's due to the combination of "ups" and "downs" that make the ride worth it - a ride without any change would hardly be a ride at all (like two people growing apart, and no longer in the marriage mentally). It's when a marriage experiences the "downs", that it can truly begin to appreciate the "ups".<br />
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By the end of a ride, there is a sense of accomplishment, pride, and thrill that you did it. And what's more, the fear and anxiety was worth it, and you had fun overall.<br />
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Of course, this is a rough simile, as not everyone enjoys roller coasters like I do - some even get sick. But that aside, my point is, marriage is never perfect. I'm glad for the trials, because it helps make me a better wife and partner to my husband. It allows us to grow together and learn as a team.<br />
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The biggest gift I can give to my husband, is the promise that my vows will remain intact, and that I'm on this ride with him until the end! <br />
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I love you Babe!<br />
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<br />Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-15630814142272660272013-01-16T16:44:00.000-08:002013-01-16T16:53:19.757-08:00Autumn Carrot BisqueI love finding great recipes simply because you have items that have to get cooked before they go bad. In my case, it was half a bag of large carrots from Costco (they were intended to go in crockpot recipes, but I just didn't end up needing too many).<br />
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<div>
Anyway, so in my search online, I happened to stumble across a recipe for an Autumn Carrot Bisque. I had most of the ingredients, so I went ahead with it. The result was better than I could have anticipated - and even my 10 month old daughter loved the taste of it. I will definitely be making this dish again.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72CSj17xMtu67Sdiit9ZZjW6bNWh86owXo5fa2YfuAL0QJqxhurFN8Bj5KpxNQ_cJ39Hp5EWle_CF9GYBOq4Pf6lJEqKq7wY3sVgmmSDl6q08Gsv2KNDB75XmD-1JSYISr1Z0Yuw-4bg/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72CSj17xMtu67Sdiit9ZZjW6bNWh86owXo5fa2YfuAL0QJqxhurFN8Bj5KpxNQ_cJ39Hp5EWle_CF9GYBOq4Pf6lJEqKq7wY3sVgmmSDl6q08Gsv2KNDB75XmD-1JSYISr1Z0Yuw-4bg/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>3 lb. carrots - chopped (I'm not sure how many I had, maybe 15-20 large carrots)</li>
<li>1 onion - chopped (I used 1/2 c. dried chopped onion since I didn't have a fresh onion)</li>
<li>3-4 garlic cloves - chopped</li>
<li>1 Tbsp. curry powder</li>
<li>1/2 tsp. salt</li>
<li>1/2 tsp. pepper</li>
<li>1/2 tsp. ginger</li>
<li>1 can coconut milk</li>
<li>2 Tbsp. peanut oil (I used sesame oil - olive oil is fine too)</li>
<li>1 Tbsp. maple syrup (I used 100% real maple syrup)</li>
<li>1-1/2 c. chicken broth</li>
<li>1-1/2 c. water</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Pour oil into a pot with the onion and carrots. Saute until onions start to cook or brown slightly (I used the dried onion, and simply sauteed for 5 minutes or so).</li>
<li>Pour the chicken broth, water, pepper, salt, ginger, curry, maple syrup and garlic into the pot with the carrots.</li>
<li>Cook until it's boiling, then reduce the heat and cook for 15 minutes (or until carrots are fork tender).</li>
<li>Once cooked, allow to cool enough to puree in a blender/food processor until smooth.</li>
<li>Return the mixture to the pot, and add the can of coconut milk.</li>
<li>For a smoother consistency, add more coconut milk.</li>
<li>Enjoy!</li>
</ol>
</div>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-88049082620520376662013-01-13T10:33:00.000-08:002013-01-13T10:40:51.464-08:00Crockpot Rosemary Pork with Red Wine RisottoI found this recipe in a book, and had to try it. I'm usually not a big pork fan, since there's a common tendency for it to be dry, but this comes out moist, tastes amazing, and my guests loved it!<br />
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<div>
<b><u>Ingredients</u>:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>1 cup risotto (Arborio rice)</li>
<li>1 boneless pork loin - about 3 lbs. (I had two small ones that came together in a package from Costco)</li>
<li>3 fresh rosemary sprigs</li>
<li>2 tbsp. olive oil</li>
<li>1 cup fruity red wine</li>
<li>2 tbsp. butter</li>
<li>1/2 finely chopped onion</li>
<li>3-5 minced garlic cloves</li>
<li>2 cups chicken broth</li>
<li>3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese</li>
<li>salt/pepper</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><u>Directions</u>:</b></div>
</div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrI4ow2zPSHiiJ2Ruc4rN4axD2rRL2bHgN64r0pNMA-Zo3IfF0Bb1IR4ojZvpxFQdDdnsW9-KBt9QTiZBUlT0eJMzpYmq5Ro_8eIdXdQW3U_0K7dGtoYJQrK_nWnfuzRfYgov7xLBiAk/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrI4ow2zPSHiiJ2Ruc4rN4axD2rRL2bHgN64r0pNMA-Zo3IfF0Bb1IR4ojZvpxFQdDdnsW9-KBt9QTiZBUlT0eJMzpYmq5Ro_8eIdXdQW3U_0K7dGtoYJQrK_nWnfuzRfYgov7xLBiAk/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The risotto will absorb the juices as it cooks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ol>
<li>Chop and mince your onion/garlic - set aside.</li>
<li>Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.</li>
<li>Pour olive oil into a pan, lay the sprigs of rosemary in the pan, and place the pork loin on top. Sear all sides until it shows a little browning - the book suggested 5-7 minutes per side. (the oil made it splatter everywhere, so either have a screen cover over it, or use less oil - this is something I'll need to perfect the next time).</li>
<li>Once the pork is seared, place it in the crockpot with the rosemary. Save what's left in the pan.</li>
<li>Pour 1/2 cup of the chicken broth into the pan, cook and loosen all the leftover juices from the pork. Add in 1 tbsp. of butter, the onion and garlic - stir/cook until onions begin to look translucent.</li>
<li>Add the risotto and cook until it starts to brown (I didn't notice any browning - but the book suggested 2 minutes).</li>
<li>Stir in wine and remaining chicken broth.</li>
<li>Pour the risotto mixture into the crockpot with the pork. Cover, and cook on High for 3-4 hours (if you're not sure it's done, check that it reaches 160 degrees on a meat thermometer).</li>
<li>Once it's done, remove the pork and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing it up.</li>
<li>Add the remaining 1 tbsp. of butter, and the parmesan cheese to the risotto and mix (I didn't add the cheese, I had it on the side for anyone that wanted to sprinkle it on top - and it tasted great with or without).</li>
<li>This meal was great served with cooked brussel sprouts.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Enjoy!</div>
</div>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-21114153065386941992013-01-05T10:42:00.000-08:002013-01-13T10:37:50.906-08:00Wine Charms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94KqAC_Hi5yJdssuVjY1iqAdvE2sZh9LqFxJQXLqkI-WgYQAlZYzrQVJINwTd29cvp6UT3jlIiimv6LHxGhv7kAbsh6KnTdnuRh2tGDKrIrva1ruikDnIP1Wchwa9dwi8hagGbHJvAZI/s1600/IMG_1530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94KqAC_Hi5yJdssuVjY1iqAdvE2sZh9LqFxJQXLqkI-WgYQAlZYzrQVJINwTd29cvp6UT3jlIiimv6LHxGhv7kAbsh6KnTdnuRh2tGDKrIrva1ruikDnIP1Wchwa9dwi8hagGbHJvAZI/s320/IMG_1530.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
I'm finally getting around to posting a new project on here! This one is fairly easy, and minimal tools are required. <br />
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Here are the items you need for this project (most of which can be found at <a href="http://www.michaels.com/">Michael's</a>):<br />
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- <a href="http://www.michaels.com/premo%21-sculpey-polymer-clay-24-color-sampler/gc2234,default,pd.html?start=11&cgid=products-generalcrafts-clayandtools-clay">Baking clay</a><br />
- Hoop earrings<br />
- <a href="http://www.michaels.com/Premo%21-Sculpey%C2%AE-Fashion-Art-6-piece-Glitter-Set%2C-Metallic/gc1613,default,pd.html?cgid=products-generalcrafts&start=6">Baking glitter</a><br />
- Small pliers<br />
- Baking dish<br />
- Glaze/Clear nail polish<br />
- Needle<br />
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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<b>1.) </b>Choose a green clay, and roll out small coils (these will be the vine loops that link to the earring hoop). Also, mold flat teardrop shapes (these will be the leaves). Use the needle to create any kind of leaf pattern in the teardrop that you want.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRW7rDKGwmagI7E71vmMI9Kw2XnoNZ8ZlmjtyuyQ34pMxeNOfX7LLJlAIYdiRJl6cvB3hRZ9To9m6R1CeDYRZCqjo09JRASi8fHEVpdoip0N5oUTb-R19_Xdo-pZiBM1NKDPgnbPKUKJ4/s1600/IMG_1536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRW7rDKGwmagI7E71vmMI9Kw2XnoNZ8ZlmjtyuyQ34pMxeNOfX7LLJlAIYdiRJl6cvB3hRZ9To9m6R1CeDYRZCqjo09JRASi8fHEVpdoip0N5oUTb-R19_Xdo-pZiBM1NKDPgnbPKUKJ4/s320/IMG_1536.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<b>2.)</b> Choose a clay color for the grapes. Roll out multiple small balls, and cluster together to create a bunch of grapes in the shape you like. Choose a glitter to go with your grapes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0UzpyPnb0SiOQdMh7BIr_D1rSheeZwfV9_IBPTVT3G1GUyUTHNQjxrXEI1Vzgtu46_j_WZco45H8PU7kp9sALWXErw889a-swYIOwNEpRcFsMqSQIbqP0grEfPseT3b0m6HxNHBv3zo8/s1600/IMG_1540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0UzpyPnb0SiOQdMh7BIr_D1rSheeZwfV9_IBPTVT3G1GUyUTHNQjxrXEI1Vzgtu46_j_WZco45H8PU7kp9sALWXErw889a-swYIOwNEpRcFsMqSQIbqP0grEfPseT3b0m6HxNHBv3zo8/s320/IMG_1540.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div>
<b>3.)</b> Roll the grape bunch in the glitter, coating every surface. Pat the glitter into the clay to make sure it's sticking well. </div>
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<b>4.)</b> Stick the leaf, followed by the vine, onto the top of the grapes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABQgpnl_s63FXzhnEoL1mw-Sxt6lF44nAlJ-nuAghMLb2zkHR9TPMAs-afN_8A3lp9CLAT18KNSW_mulPGVnT5POqWq5Ar-6Rsh-lnwjX0jRy_dXzBg3ZZ7vugyftBORrSnkuwBz03-k/s1600/IMG_1539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABQgpnl_s63FXzhnEoL1mw-Sxt6lF44nAlJ-nuAghMLb2zkHR9TPMAs-afN_8A3lp9CLAT18KNSW_mulPGVnT5POqWq5Ar-6Rsh-lnwjX0jRy_dXzBg3ZZ7vugyftBORrSnkuwBz03-k/s320/IMG_1539.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div>
<b>5.)</b> Place the finished charm into an oven safe baking dish, and continue this process for all of your charms.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7Qda5Bl_cLkGywCaDxaP_ya-fwxirGx3GZWk_YuM2GlwRLM7ILzErjveBzIPOvKwCc93NCtnG3fq2M5a_vO2wo9LHPv5qcY-GlIMx5yenph6-twnqZw63YXP2zH7upVU12Fvoi1ICj0/s1600/IMG_1542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7Qda5Bl_cLkGywCaDxaP_ya-fwxirGx3GZWk_YuM2GlwRLM7ILzErjveBzIPOvKwCc93NCtnG3fq2M5a_vO2wo9LHPv5qcY-GlIMx5yenph6-twnqZw63YXP2zH7upVU12Fvoi1ICj0/s320/IMG_1542.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div>
<b>6.)</b> Bake your charms at 275 degrees, for 15 minutes, then let cool. Once cool, use a clay glaze (clear nail polish works too), and coat half of the charm, allow to dry, then turn over and coat the remaining half. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxDOx5ZobcP7VLRAE3oJhkcLmFcGKYRAhkCCyIBg28dM9_8rq7en4xo0bwZX9EuJlGFzR4EUoO4vqR1TeGz4inHh_xlS8mwcNgELWmF5f6Zcn2bYZmgdGv_Isc0SP6cqzZfUaEdsvcqY/s1600/IMG_1543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxDOx5ZobcP7VLRAE3oJhkcLmFcGKYRAhkCCyIBg28dM9_8rq7en4xo0bwZX9EuJlGFzR4EUoO4vqR1TeGz4inHh_xlS8mwcNgELWmF5f6Zcn2bYZmgdGv_Isc0SP6cqzZfUaEdsvcqY/s320/IMG_1543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b> 7.)</b> Once your charms are glazed and dry, use pliers to form your earring hoops into rings that will hook around a wine glass stem.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHG5j4Qhinvg7FEkZKwWvqHZ0nBltsJqw4hWXwkgJoUgxFPGUWUmTYYYgb8sVEDsnTcKyJWSkBlDOv2qaqiYc-znL_brYuhpVS7GGY09KMG7q9MqmspLrd8sBSH97YB36BbMBdxFQjPQ/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHG5j4Qhinvg7FEkZKwWvqHZ0nBltsJqw4hWXwkgJoUgxFPGUWUmTYYYgb8sVEDsnTcKyJWSkBlDOv2qaqiYc-znL_brYuhpVS7GGY09KMG7q9MqmspLrd8sBSH97YB36BbMBdxFQjPQ/s320/IMG_1537.JPG" width="236" /></a></div>
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<b>8.)</b> You now have cute homemade wine charms! Do not soak them in water. If they get spilled on, take a damp cloth or paper towel and gently wipe them clean. Try not to bang the charm, as the vine could break with enough force.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94KqAC_Hi5yJdssuVjY1iqAdvE2sZh9LqFxJQXLqkI-WgYQAlZYzrQVJINwTd29cvp6UT3jlIiimv6LHxGhv7kAbsh6KnTdnuRh2tGDKrIrva1ruikDnIP1Wchwa9dwi8hagGbHJvAZI/s1600/IMG_1530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94KqAC_Hi5yJdssuVjY1iqAdvE2sZh9LqFxJQXLqkI-WgYQAlZYzrQVJINwTd29cvp6UT3jlIiimv6LHxGhv7kAbsh6KnTdnuRh2tGDKrIrva1ruikDnIP1Wchwa9dwi8hagGbHJvAZI/s320/IMG_1530.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<br />Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-15908833395799795792012-12-29T10:36:00.003-08:002013-01-13T10:38:07.559-08:00Black Bean Taco SoupThis crockpot recipe has been my biggest hit yet! I got the recipe from <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2012/09/slow-cooker-freezer-meals-make-8-meals.html">www.sixsistersstuff.com</a>. It's really easy, and the compliments I received were endless! The consistency is more like thick chili than soup. Great for a party, or family dinner. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrF8zUDqxgtPqIgEq7jXiHdgnjFPGfd7qy32fZQfII6H4G6EFdGZOx8ChnYLxvGSi0hIEj9jIm7r5-jce8U1r5hYshp-huYjpfkMCpNjoukpePaYfMc4kCIN8pj2WLY1nkHps6Ncl7jbM/s400/freezer+meal+taco+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrF8zUDqxgtPqIgEq7jXiHdgnjFPGfd7qy32fZQfII6H4G6EFdGZOx8ChnYLxvGSi0hIEj9jIm7r5-jce8U1r5hYshp-huYjpfkMCpNjoukpePaYfMc4kCIN8pj2WLY1nkHps6Ncl7jbM/s320/freezer+meal+taco+soup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture belongs to Six Sister's Stuff</td></tr>
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<b><u>Ingredients</u>:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey works too!)</li>
<li>1 medium onion, chopped</li>
<li>1 package mild taco seasoning mix</li>
<li>1 (16 oz) bag frozen corn</li>
<li>1 (16 oz) can black beans drained and rinsed (you could use kidney beans or pinto beans)</li>
<li>2 (14 oz) cans stewed tomatoes</li>
<li>1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce</li>
<li>1 (4 oz) can diced green chilis </li>
</ul>
<br />
<b><u>Directions</u>:</b><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Brown meat and onion, drain. Let meat cool for a minute, then dump into a resealable gallon-sized freezer bag.</li>
<li>Dump the remaining ingredients into the bag, mix together, and zip bag closed.</li>
<li>When ready to eat, remove from freezer and thaw in fridge for 24 hours.</li>
<li>Cook on HIGH for 1-2 hours or LOW for 2-3 1/2 hours.</li>
<li>Serve with tortilla chips, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. Enjoy!</li>
</ol>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-62812407347198213872012-12-17T11:49:00.002-08:002012-12-17T11:54:45.815-08:00Crockpot Chicken<span style="color: #322b25; font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px;">My last crockpot recipe of BBQ pork ribs was an absolute success with my husband. Only problem was there were no seconds! </span><br />
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This will be my second new crockpot recipe attempt: a whole chicken. I found this wonderful little recipe on<a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/cooking/whole-chicken-in-a-crock-pot/"> thehappyhousewife.com</a>. Photos are borrowed, as this is my first time trying it, and I just put my chicken in the pot.</div>
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<b>INGREDIENTS</b>:<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent;">1 whole chicken</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent;">seasonings of choice (I used garlic powder, paprika, marjoram, rosemary and a little salt).</span></li>
</ul>
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<b>DIRECTIONS:</b></div>
After rinsing the chicken place in a crock pot that has been sprayed with non-stick.</div>
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<img alt="" height="288" src="http://i533.photobucket.com/albums/ee336/anderbach/IMG_0004-1.jpg" style="max-width: 100%;" width="432" /></div>
<div style="color: #322b25; font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; padding: 0px 0px 15px;">
You do not need to put any liquid in the pot, just the chicken.</div>
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Then sprinkle your favorite spices on the chicken. </div>
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<img alt="" height="289" src="http://i533.photobucket.com/albums/ee336/anderbach/IMG_0005-1.jpg" style="max-width: 100%;" width="434" /></div>
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Place the lid on the crock pot, set on low, and walk away for about 7 hours.</div>
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7 hours later you will have a beautiful cooked chicken ready to serve for dinner.</div>
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<img alt="" height="298" src="http://i533.photobucket.com/albums/ee336/anderbach/IMG_0006-2.jpg" style="max-width: 100%;" width="447" /></div>
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Remove the chicken from the crock pot, cut and serve. </div>
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The recipe also provides a good way to turn the leftover juice into homemade broth.<br />
Looking forward to how this will turn out!</div>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-75876178520257005782012-12-14T02:37:00.001-08:002012-12-14T02:37:26.020-08:0010 Annoying Things Husbands DoTo all my married ladies:<br />
<br />
We love our husbands. They are our heroes, our knights, and best friends. We love them unconditionally... but let's face it girls, our husbands do things that just downright annoy the crap out of us! So here's just a little bit of good humored venting. <br />
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10 annoying things husbands do:<br />
<ol>
<li><b>Leaving dirty dishes:</b> not in the dishwasher and not even in the sink, but on the counter or around the house. How about dishes with food still left on them? </li>
<li><b>Blaming negative moods on PMS:</b> just because women are the more emotional sex, does not make our feelings invalid. Also not sure why some guys think telling us we're PMSing is going to help the situation any.</li>
<li><b>Not picking up after themselves:</b> self-explanatory... who enjoys cleaning up after others?</li>
<li><b>Dysfunctional planner: </b>If it's not forgetting an event, it's not coordinating an event well (like inviting people last minute, or not making reservations). </li>
<li><b>Leaving the toilet seat up:</b> self-explanatory... it's gross (or hazardous to someone who doesn't notice and goes to sit).</li>
<li><b>Forgetting how to be romantic: </b>Most men must suffer memory loss. The art of flattery and planning dates become faint memories that seem to resurface only on certain occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.</li>
<li><b>Browsing their phone when out on a date:</b> self-explanatory... it's rude! Can you hear me now?</li>
<li><b>Pretending to listen/zoning out: </b>ever had that conversation with your husband while the TV's on? Yea me neither...</li>
<li><b>Too much TV/Games/Internet: </b>feel like your husbands hooked up to electronics sometimes?</li>
<li><b>Expected to be a constant babysitter/housemaid: </b>being left on baby/child duty or cleaning duty too much is a recipe for resentment. </li>
</ol>
Anyway, not all men possess these traits. These are only intended for light-hearted teasing. We love our men. Our husbands have many wonderful traits that won our hearts in the beginning, and keep warming our hearts throughout the years. To all you husbands out there, thank you for being our providers, our strength, good fathers (to those with kids), and best friends.<br />
<br />
* just be sure to wine and dine us sometimes. :-)<br />
<ol>
</ol>
Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-30432219158423848232012-12-12T11:44:00.005-08:002012-12-17T13:45:59.891-08:00Slow Cooked BBQ Pork RibsUPDATE:<br />
This recipe was a success! My husband said this is his favorite crockpot recipe by far! Just one little change I would make, is that 6 hours on LOW is the perfect timing - no longer.<br />
.....................................................................<br />
<br />
Time for a new recipe! Being a mom to an 8-1/2 month old, my love for crockpot recipes has grown! What's not better than dinner cooking itself, leaving you free to handle mom duties, or on rare occasions, relax.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-Ua5kkB8GEgXTdALO5nUhFJxBvjbVQtxJ-iSiETCs-uqI6wCakMS423vU3iQI0ZFLWJbKcZYNZqLxz0Y74CNpAbD-yc9-Xu9ewycCH3GwkY5pyxY8RukU_KQXIwPfabEK4GWodycgfA/s1600/photo(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-Ua5kkB8GEgXTdALO5nUhFJxBvjbVQtxJ-iSiETCs-uqI6wCakMS423vU3iQI0ZFLWJbKcZYNZqLxz0Y74CNpAbD-yc9-Xu9ewycCH3GwkY5pyxY8RukU_KQXIwPfabEK4GWodycgfA/s200/photo(1).JPG" width="183" /></a></div>
Anyway, today I'm trying out a new recipe I found for slow cooked BBQ pork ribs. I bought all the ingredients at Stater Brothers.<br />
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<b>INGREDIENTS</b>:<br />
<ul>
<li>1-2 lbs. pork ribs</li>
<li>1-1/2 cups ketchup</li>
<li>1-1/2 Tbsp seasoning salt</li>
<li>1/2 tsp liquid smoke</li>
<li>1/2 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup white vinegar </li>
</ul>
Bottled BBQ sauce can be used I'm sure as well, to keep things even simpler.<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b>:<br />
<ol>
<li>Cut pork ribs into reasonable parts (about 3-4 ribs per piece), and set aside.</li>
<li>Mix remaining ingredients to make the BBQ sauce. I mixed mine in a large freezer bag to save dirtying a bowl.</li>
<li> Place ribs inside the bag with the sauce, and let marinate in the fridge for a few hours, or overnight if you wish.</li>
<li>When ready to cook, place entire contents into a crockpot and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or on LOW for 6-7 hours. I prefer the low cook setting.</li>
<li>Enjoy!</li>
</ol>
This recipe can also be frozen for a later date. When ready to use, simply let it thaw in the fridge for 24 hours.Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-85573016712304417152012-11-27T01:05:00.000-08:002012-11-27T01:13:09.411-08:00Baby Food Confessions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfyHyjc50HuCKQ-MkWL4-MVbuLU9Hgl6Bjm_0ocSu45QTEpd4upm9hCpaSDxahhrNDbg2wNKWFUSAy8Zf3UJAdstQTpqwZ5HcMdE8r1bp3Mm4OIuQP8aqLGtlgRmA3COPgab45SPT_mdA/s1600/IMG_1088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfyHyjc50HuCKQ-MkWL4-MVbuLU9Hgl6Bjm_0ocSu45QTEpd4upm9hCpaSDxahhrNDbg2wNKWFUSAy8Zf3UJAdstQTpqwZ5HcMdE8r1bp3Mm4OIuQP8aqLGtlgRmA3COPgab45SPT_mdA/s320/IMG_1088.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
If you're like me, you've tried a taste of everything that your baby has eaten. From formula to pureed green beans, and blended turkey & sweet potato.<br />
<br />
In my opinion, I have no idea how babies manage to eat what they're given. Formula would be the one item I don't suggest any parent to try. Second to breast milk, it has everything a baby needs and is necessary... but between you and me, it tastes worse than sour milk. My personal experience with a small sip nearly triggered my gag reflex.<br />
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Other than formula, I've tried quite a few of my daughter's pureed meals. Most of the fruit tastes good, and the veggies taste pretty close to their solid counterparts. It's when I get to the blended "meal" options that I begin to wonder how bland chicken and rice can taste so... unappetizing. The worst would have to be the turkey meal options... let's just say they do not taste close to what's written on the container.<br />
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Of course, the wonderful thing about packaged baby food is that it's easy to travel with, convenient for providing your child with variety, and the fact that babies don't know any better means they're still going to get the nutrition they need and not complain. However, they pale in comparison to homemade baby food.<br />
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I've started making my daughter's pureed meals, and I was surprised just how easy they were. Some of my favorites are: apple sauce, pureed pears, carrots, yams, butternut squash, and chicken and potatoes. The fruits and vegetables are all prepared the same:<br />
<br />
<b>Pureed Baby Food: Fruits & Veggies</b><br />
(<u>note</u>: <i>most fruits/veggies have to be cooked; however, bananas/avocados can be pureed raw</i>) <b></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
1) Cut/Chop your fruit or veggies into manageable pieces.<br />
2) Place in a steaming basket in a pot of boiling water.<br />
3) Cook until soft/tender.<br />
4) Let food cool off a little, then place into a blender or food processor.<br />
5) Blend to puree, adding some of the boiled water to thin to a desired consistency.<br />
<br />
You can serve the food fresh, or freeze for later:<br />
<br />
6) Place puree into ice cube trays and freeze.<br />
7) Remove frozen cubes into a labeled freezer bag to store.<br />
8) Allow cubes to sit in fridge overnight when you plan to use some the next day. <br />
<br />
The difference between fresh made baby food and store bought is night and day. I have a friend whose son didn't like store bought butternut squash, but then he tried the home made version and loved it! If moms have the time to try making their own baby food, I highly recommend it! Not only will you be able to make better tasting food for your child, but you will also cut costs on baby food at the store. It's a win-win!Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-86713074099788585942012-11-22T23:42:00.002-08:002012-11-22T23:42:37.963-08:00I'm Still Here... (and Happy Thanksgiving!)I'm finding that time management isn't just a valued skill when it comes to motherhood, it's a necessity! These past few months, I have learned how to juggle taking care of a baby with moving to a new home, remodeling said home, arranging a surprise party for my husband's 30th birthday, and of course just handling the every day tasks of cleaning, running errands, projects and finding time to care for myself! <br />
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Needless to say, I've had plenty of excuses as to why I haven't been able to keep my blog more up to date. Something I hope to remedy, now with life settling down in our new location. Good thing is that I've had plenty of time to think of new topics and recipes to post, so I'm hoping to get back into the swing of things on here.<br />
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My daughter is 8 months old now, and it's hard to believe how fast the time has flown! She still hasn't cut any teeth yet, but is loving trying new foods I've been making for her. She also hasn't mastered the art of crawling. She loves to roll around, and stand in her walker. I may end up being one of those moms whose child goes straight to standing and walking, and skips the crawling stage all together. <br />
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I'm loving making her baby food, and I can't believe how easy it is! The best part of course is feeding it to her and seeing her reaction. She likes pretty much everything except green beans - which I can't blame her... I don't like them either. But for their nutritional benefits, I've been mixing them in with other vegetables she likes.<br />
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Anyway, it feels good to finally write a new post. Now I just need to manage my time well enough to keep this updated! Hope everyone is well, and Happy Thanksgiving!!Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-29308536054417309872012-06-16T14:37:00.001-07:002012-06-16T14:37:08.106-07:00Babies are Addictive!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9NXRzHbnTPi0fojukt-6qITc2th_weVQSqDPqwB617o_XnQzHJCbZZvICxlr2U8P7Ytv-gZrPKOHkuFgBUcjb6netNlhpunhCIzWp4jgrUfGWAJR5TC4YPP88Hek7JqXXwo39Z5NZkI/s1600/IMG_0746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9NXRzHbnTPi0fojukt-6qITc2th_weVQSqDPqwB617o_XnQzHJCbZZvICxlr2U8P7Ytv-gZrPKOHkuFgBUcjb6netNlhpunhCIzWp4jgrUfGWAJR5TC4YPP88Hek7JqXXwo39Z5NZkI/s200/IMG_0746.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Well I'm finally 100% recovered! That being said, moving on. Our daughter is almost 3 months old, and I can't believe just how fast time goes by. She smiles all the time, has almost started laughing, and is discovering her voice and the use of her hands more and more each day.<br />
<br />
Being a stay-at-home mom has been wonderfully exhausting and rewarding. Trying to squeeze cleaning, cooking, laundry, and baby duties all into one day can be quite challenging. I'm learning patience in a whole new way. Life is finding routine again though. At 7 weeks, Emilee slept through the night for the first time. Now at 12 weeks, she sleeps every night from 8pm to 7am (hopefully this won't change once she starts teething). Biggest challenge I have with her now is solidifying her nap schedule - she's a very light napper.<br />
<br />
Despite her short naps, I'm loving her new baby stages more and more - each month is my favorite month, and she keeps getting better and easier. Even with a rough labor, long recovery and those seemingly endless sleepless nights... I'm addicted! It's no secret to my family and friends that I want more.<br />
<br />
I have always wanted 2 kids, but for the first time in my life, I'm considering 3. Even my husband who has always just wanted 2 is open to 3. The thought of a house full of kids laughing and playing puts a smile on my face, and I'm so excited for those days to come.Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-87637041883997840672012-05-21T23:48:00.001-07:002012-05-21T23:50:13.833-07:00Post Labor RecoveryI've primarily used this blog to share recipes, ideas and some life stories... but today, I just need to vent (be forewarned, this could get a bit TMI).<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This Wednesday will mark 9 weeks since my daughter's birth. I wrote her <a href="http://sweetart-ott.blogspot.com/2012/03/emilees-birth-story.html">birth story</a> on here shortly after coming home from the hospital. It's an honest post - my labor was long and rough. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well let me tell you, recovering hasn't exactly been a walk in the park either. A standard recovery period after giving birth is about 6 weeks. Bleeding occurs for a couple weeks, tapers off to spotting, and usually stops by week 6. Stitches from a tear or episiotomy are healed by this time, and the uterus has gone back down to its original pre-pregnancy size. Besides the breastfeeding and baby weight, most moms are back to normal pre-pregnancy life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Around the 5th week after giving birth, I started to worry about my healing as my bleeding had not slowed or changed. I finally called the Doctor when I passed a blood clot and tissue. He seemed unconcerned and said it could be a full 8 weeks to recover. So I waited...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
By week 7 my bleeding had not changed at all, and I again messaged the ObGyn department. A different Doctor scheduled me for a blood test and ultrasound. Blood results showed that the blood loss hadn't made me anemic, but the ultrasound showed retained placenta fragments. I received a call to schedule a D&C surgery to basically 'clean me out'.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The surgery itself wasn't bad at all. I was put to sleep, and so I have no memory of the procedure. I was at the hospital a grand total of 5 hours, from 6:00am to 11:00am. The Doctor was great, and said the surgery went well and she removed the retained tissue.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It has been 4 days since the surgery, and still the bleeding has not stopped or lessened. I was told that it could take up to a week to stop, and two weeks to be completely healed. And then what if I don't stop bleeding? Then I think I go back for hormone tests and possibly go on the pill.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The only thing that keeps me smiling through all of this is my daughter. She constantly reminds me that it's worth it, and I lose myself in caring for her. A good friend of mine once told me that having children is like killing selfishness. You put yourself last for your family. Now that I am a mom, I couldn't agree more with her statement. There are times I want to cry because I'm so frustrated, worn out and sad that I'm not fully healed yet... but perhaps this is a whole sub-lesson in patience (since children take the primary seat in patience-testing).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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Anyway, there's still a week and a half to go until I should raise concern... but does anyone blame me for venting? I mean jeez... no woman should have to endure a 9 week (or longer) period!!</div>Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-77401287451721366952012-04-17T11:42:00.000-07:002012-04-17T11:45:04.324-07:00Homemade Play DoughI found this cute project recipe in one of my parenting magazines and thought I'd share! It's an Eco-Friendly Play Dough that you can make at home for your little one to play with.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxTG3wWQOom63zGTLdCh989sQoC233raWl_TpRZV6bm6AA8VldSpiOM-4shy5gW6fyJ8bQhkLIvtVcU-Rc0VuiS1NM0E8mDv-QW9Ynkp-t6ec1lo6a3GlakcPSyaLSf1LkvMSTDxZ9Z8/s1600/homemade_playdough_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxTG3wWQOom63zGTLdCh989sQoC233raWl_TpRZV6bm6AA8VldSpiOM-4shy5gW6fyJ8bQhkLIvtVcU-Rc0VuiS1NM0E8mDv-QW9Ynkp-t6ec1lo6a3GlakcPSyaLSf1LkvMSTDxZ9Z8/s320/homemade_playdough_main.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken from Google Images</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Ingredients:</u></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 Cup Salt</li>
<li>1/2 Cup Water</li>
<li>1 Cup Flour</li>
<li>1 Tbsp. Beet Juice (or other natural dye)</li>
<li>*Optional* A few drops of essential oil like lavender or mint</li>
</ul>
<div>
<u><b>Directions:</b></u></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Place salt, water and flour in a large bowl.</li>
<li>Mix to combine, and then add dye.</li>
<li>Knead until smooth.</li>
<li>Store in a sealed container to maintain.</li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-82152166602340159892012-04-12T22:56:00.001-07:002012-04-12T23:00:17.782-07:00Belly Buttons & Diaper RashWhat new mom hasn't stressed over her newborn? Over the last 3 weeks, I've had my share of concerns:<br />
<ul>
<li>Does this look normal?</li>
<li>Are babies supposed to be this gassy?</li>
<li>Am I producing enough milk?</li>
<li>When will this umbilical cord stump fall off?</li>
<li>What does <i>this</i> cry mean?</li>
<li>What is THAT?!</li>
</ul>
<div>
Probably the top two worries I've dealt with so far have been about belly buttons and diaper rash.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<u><b>BELLY BUTTONS</b></u></div>
<div>
One thing I forgot to ask the hospital about for my daughter, was the care of her umbilical cord stump. All I knew was that it's supposed to dry up, and fall off. That little stump nearly gave me a panic attack when I noticed a little dry blood at the base a couple days later. I did my research online, and found two common care methods: </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1) Do nothing, except keep dry and let heal naturally.</div>
<div>
2) clean base with a Q-Tip and 70% rubbing alcohol.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I tried each method a couple days each. The stump started falling off in pieces over the week, to which I was a little confused about. It still seemed a little oozy, and I was not feeling confident in my care for it. A little blood is supposed to be normal I found out, but it still didn't give me any comfort.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally, at my daughter's 2 week Doctor appointment my worry was cured! Instead of the previous two methods, the pediatrician said to use Hydrogen Peroxide with a Q-Tip to clean around the stump, gently pat dry, and that's it! Within a matter of a couple days, the remaining stump fell out, and my daughter's cute little belly button made its appearance!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>DIAPER RASH</u></b></div>
<div>
Our daughter has been a big healthy eater from the start. In the first two weeks, she gained double the amount of weight most newborns gain. However, her slightly larger appetite also means more dirty diapers. After a couple days, I noticed her rectum getting a little red. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Initially, I used Vaseline, but after a few more days the rash got worse and my daughter let me know it with each diaper change. I needed to try something else. I stopped using wipes, and switched to cotton balls and water to clean her skin. I also gave her a warm bath to soothe her little bottom, and some diaper rash cream for the raw areas.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The trick that really started to help, was actually baby powder - even though I read many places online that advised against it. My mom used it, and never had to deal with rashes for her kids. So after cleansing my daughter's skin with water and cotton balls, I applied a little rash cream to the affected areas, then lightly put some powder in her fresh diaper. After closing the diaper, I gave it a light pat to disperse the powder inside. Within a day and a half, her rash and skin started looking better, as well as my daughter's disposition during diaper changes!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I understand that all babies are different, and have different skin sensitivities. These are just two tips that have helped me.</div>Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-45604103228729894732012-04-10T14:04:00.004-07:002012-04-17T11:19:41.821-07:00Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup<br />
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
It's been a while since I've posted a new recipe. The recipe below is an easy one, and yields a gigantic pot of soup! It can feed at least 10 people, and is one of my new favorites for entertainment (and leftovers).</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMB6bfzCb1Lm-T7LtyN4Wk81LemEHt4azMPukEjFF4wVH5oIgJ1ZdpnFHWIDKFcq4MayCZTmQOf28nLyR05QmeofMy7MMcYa4YaJX57e_48WxmqQo9ffn6ObkWK53c1BYO2TKIMvViKxE/s1600/chicken-tortilla-soup-ala-steve-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMB6bfzCb1Lm-T7LtyN4Wk81LemEHt4azMPukEjFF4wVH5oIgJ1ZdpnFHWIDKFcq4MayCZTmQOf28nLyR05QmeofMy7MMcYa4YaJX57e_48WxmqQo9ffn6ObkWK53c1BYO2TKIMvViKxE/s320/chicken-tortilla-soup-ala-steve-9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken from Google Images (looks identical)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<br />
4 Chicken Breasts cooked and torn or cubed into pieces</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
8 cups Chicken Stock (<i>two 32 oz. boxes</i>)<br />
2-1/2 whole Onions diced (<i>yellow or white onions</i>)<br />
6 cloves Garlic crushed<br />
1 large can of Crushed Tomatoes</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
1 reg. can of Crushed Tomatoes</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
1 regular can Petite Diced Tomatoes<br />
1 whole Lime</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
3 tablespoon Chili Powder<br />
2 teaspoon ground Cumin<br />
1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Red Pepper</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Salt to taste<br />
Pepper to taste<br />
5-6 Tbsp. Vegetable oil</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
1 reg. can Corn Kernels</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
2 reg. cans Black Beans (<i>rinsed</i>)</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Tortilla strips/chips (<i>broken into pieces</i>)</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
-- Optional Add-Ons --<br />
Cilantro</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Cheese<br />
Sour cream<br />
Avocado<br />
<br />
<b>Preparation:</b><br />
<ol>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">In a large pan, cook chicken cubes with a little oil. Salt, pepper and paprika to taste. Set aside.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">In a large stockpot, heat 5 tablespoons of oil to medium-high heat.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Add crushed garlic and chopped onions, and stir until onions just start to brown.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Add the cans of tomatoes, cumin, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, pepper, and half of the lime juice.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Turn up the heat until it bubbles, stirring constantly, then gradually stir in chicken stock.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Add diced chicken, black beans and corn kernels.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Turn down to low and simmer for at least 10 minutes or more. </li>
</ol>
<div>
<b>Serving:</b></div>
<ol>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">When ready to serve, bowl the soup, then top with a mound of the tortilla strips. Optionally add avocado, sour cream, cheese on top.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Squeeze fresh lime juice into each bowl at the table.</li>
</ol>
</div>
<div class="gmail_quote" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Enjoy!</b></div>
</div>Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-22909090000492936122012-04-05T15:56:00.001-07:002012-04-17T11:20:04.800-07:00About InfantsYesterday my daughter officially turned two weeks old! It's amazing how fast time flies as a new parent. I can barely remember what day of the week it is. Labor already seems like it was ages ago, as if we jumped forward in time. Right now Emilee is napping, and so I want to take advantage of this quiet time to write.<br />
<br />
In two short weeks, here is what I've learned about infants:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMdeqp3dT2LG_Yoyx8TDQD8Tn1VXhq5oAlZYtGiWndPRxgDaZZJEUDosOQeMpIWU2t-3z00GB7DAiCPriPsINXIPigyOIPtVk38nAJG_g67X7G1sTmNW1W8IQsIUBib-6RhiRMIYlPwA/s1600/IMG_0522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMdeqp3dT2LG_Yoyx8TDQD8Tn1VXhq5oAlZYtGiWndPRxgDaZZJEUDosOQeMpIWU2t-3z00GB7DAiCPriPsINXIPigyOIPtVk38nAJG_g67X7G1sTmNW1W8IQsIUBib-6RhiRMIYlPwA/s320/IMG_0522.JPG" width="239" /></a>When they aren't eating or sleeping, they are going through diapers left and right (sometimes 2-3 in a row), spitting up, drooling on their fingers they've been sucking on, and even that little umbilical cord stump is an additional ordeal. I've been pooped, peed, and drooled on... and yet, the statement <i>"it's different when it's your own"</i> remains true! There's something about your own baby that makes all those things not so gross, just natural. Your initial reaction to an explosive diaper isn't disgust, but rather to quickly clean your poor baby so you can make her comfortable and happy. Sometimes all you can do is laugh when you hear that ominous rumble coming from your baby's bottom, and draw straws on who gets to change her next.<br />
<br />
Infants aren't all mess and work though. There's those moments when they are asleep, and all you can do is gaze at them in wonder. So tiny, helpless and CUTE! Then there's the wakeful periods of time where they are clean, happy, and just staring at you and the world around them. My personal favorite is watching my daughter play with her facial expressions and make faces. She doesn't quite have control of her facial muscles yet, but getting glimpses of her expressions is absolutely adorable! These are the moments you cherish, and it makes all the messy diapers worth it.<br />
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<br />Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-17198789108753861632012-03-23T19:38:00.001-07:002012-03-24T21:42:52.765-07:00Emilee's Birth StoryI have been a new mom now for two and a half days, and as my precious daughter is finally asleep... I want to write my birth experience while it's still fresh in my mind (it's true that you begin to forget over time!).<br />
<br />
First, I want to just say that childbirth has to be one of the most empowering things a woman can possibly experience! I can't think of anything else that has come close to it in my life. It is the hardest thing I have ever gone through physically and mentally. <br />
<br />
Second, while I would love to paint this beautiful picture of a smooth labor, I must be honest and confess that mine was anything but smooth. My perfect natural birth plan of laboring at home, eating popsicles, getting to the hospital with only a couple hours left to go... went out the window. Please be warned that I'm going to be 100% honest, I don't intend to be "flowery" about labor. Here's my story.<br />
<br />
Tuesday (March 20th) marked week 41 for me - a week overdue. I was scheduled to go to the hospital for non-stress testing, to make sure the health of the baby was still good. Signs indicated that my amniotic fluid levels were too low, the placenta had started to age and not function as well, and my daughter's heartbeat decreased during a contraction. End result: I was admitted to the hospital for an induced labor that same day. The Doctors felt it would be safer to go sooner rather than later.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_XxzAS5MfUfZftfw4ZyBYYFIXhSfQA2OY2lnOkctizZ8TU1FU-ch4RhtQ38pmzK39h3KH7oZZOHhkjzdiIRKXIEb97UyhDzOGBHHZ4sM2RlKCFQStrW7SR94WZkzK59y5rq7DHQ9h8o/s1600/DSC01953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_XxzAS5MfUfZftfw4ZyBYYFIXhSfQA2OY2lnOkctizZ8TU1FU-ch4RhtQ38pmzK39h3KH7oZZOHhkjzdiIRKXIEb97UyhDzOGBHHZ4sM2RlKCFQStrW7SR94WZkzK59y5rq7DHQ9h8o/s320/DSC01953.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Around noon that day I was started on Pitocin to get my contractions going. Labor started off very easy, with mild discomfort. Even as the contractions grew stronger, I had little trouble coping, that is until the hours started rolling by and Tuesday became Wednesday. By 12am my labor pains were intense to the point that I couldn't talk through them, and had to focus on getting through each one. I had been making pretty good progress up until then, and was 7cm dilated. However, things started going downhill from there...<br />
<br />
For the next 3 hours, I labored in hopes to make the jump from active labor to transition. But I remained at 7cm for those 3 hours, with no progress. It had been about 15 hours of labor at that point, and my body was showing its exhaustion. With progress hitting a plateau, I finally and reluctantly decided that I needed an epidural in an attempt to relax my body enough to dilate further - not to mention rest so I could push later. Even though pain medication was the last thing on my birth plan, I was more afraid of not progressing due to exhaustion and ending with a c-section.<br />
<br />
Once the epidural was administered, I did my best to try and rest. And contrary to what I thought it would feel like, I could still move my legs (though they felt <b><u>very</u></b> heavy), and I felt pressure with the contractions. Thankfully, as I hoped, this ended up being exactly what my body needed. The rest and ability to relax jumped me from 7cm to 10cm. By 7am I felt pressure to push, and the epidural was turned off. Emilee however, was not in the right position (I had extreme back labor earlier). So they had me labor in various positions with pressure points on my belly to encourage Emilee to move. This was very difficult since they also didn't want me pushing. This lasted a couple hours with the contraction pains increasing again.<br />
<br />
Finally by 9am, they gave me the go ahead to push. This was a relief, as the counter pressure of pushing helped dull the pain of the contractions. However, Emilee's position was making progress very hard. The nurse tried to manually shift Emilee to turn, and that is the only time I yelled out in pain (I sure hope I didn't scare any of the other laboring moms). There was no luck, and after 2-1/2 hours of pushing the nurses were starting to look discouraged, and a comment or two of a c-section came up because of how long my water had been broken, my high blood pressure, and Emilee's health being stuck too long.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBz8L5Xf9_4lTFZYBzj6cSS1cj43qUietz0G0WlGIvnY1H4LNzm6ER8pxuhyphenhyphendoQX8YoPuTjOt84i7LNC_UrtpAbOmHxCpMWlVR5UmxbXZUUb0yFZlrU_Yt6sQ6vnNO81oNlmGipv9VLRg/s1600/DSC01962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBz8L5Xf9_4lTFZYBzj6cSS1cj43qUietz0G0WlGIvnY1H4LNzm6ER8pxuhyphenhyphendoQX8YoPuTjOt84i7LNC_UrtpAbOmHxCpMWlVR5UmxbXZUUb0yFZlrU_Yt6sQ6vnNO81oNlmGipv9VLRg/s200/DSC01962.JPG" width="150" /></a>This is when I believe God gave me a second wind. Out of no where, I suddenly couldn't take the pain anymore and found strength and determination to finish things. Let me tell you, pushing is like running a marathon, I was surprised by how exhausting it all was. Even with my new found energy, when Emilee's head was starting to get in view, another problem arose. She was stuck and not crowning fully. The nurse was suggesting a vacuum assist or episiotomy. I remember saying "<i>Not the vacuum! Please give me the episiotomy!</i>" (I didn't want any further trauma to my daughter). By this point another nurse had turned the epidural back on, but it was too late. I received the episiotomy cut without anything to numb the pain, but thankfully it did the trick. After three hours of pushing, Emilee's head came out (she was sunny-side up) and the nurse let me pull her out and deliver her on my own!!<br />
<br />
That was the most thrilling experience of labor, and I will never forget seeing Emilee's face as I pulled her over to my chest. Of course, the pain wasn't over then, I still had to have the placenta delivered and get stitched up. Not to mention, I experienced postpartum hemorrhaging and lost a good deal of blood, but once Emilee was out, the relief of knowing I had avoided a c-section, and survived labor was absolutely astounding! It is a right of passage to say the least. My delivery nurse said that in her 22 years of work, my labor was one of the hardest she's ever assisted with.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXu_3wwvJbCfxWJjqWfH5WIMTEJF02Cf9fQKu418XOQomwG7T43sZMBzrlWfiSI3XlVcJtNz9zWPt76WnKS8MnOeY0CtlU24oiIgnS80m8UvZ5__ZoQcVIeMBz9IZqENc6hBIUiyxISjs/s1600/540098_919310392592_15101313_37752882_1434570212_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXu_3wwvJbCfxWJjqWfH5WIMTEJF02Cf9fQKu418XOQomwG7T43sZMBzrlWfiSI3XlVcJtNz9zWPt76WnKS8MnOeY0CtlU24oiIgnS80m8UvZ5__ZoQcVIeMBz9IZqENc6hBIUiyxISjs/s320/540098_919310392592_15101313_37752882_1434570212_n.jpg" width="213" /></a>While my labor sounds scary and unbearable, I do believe that it can be a beautiful experience too. I want to end on a positive note and express that it was completely worth it! Words can hardly describe the feelings you have after labor. I wanted to cry out of joy seeing my beautiful daughter, I was proud of every stretch mark, and I was overwhelmed with love for both my daughter and my husband. Seeing my husband holding her tiny hand in amazement is a snapshot in time I will never forget! <br />
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I also can't express enough how thankful I am for my husband and mom too. They supported me throughout the whole process, and were just absolutely amazing. I couldn't have done it without them! For any future children, I pray my pregnancy is healthy to begin on its own - and that I can have my original birth plan; however, I am also very thankful for the medication that is available since it helped my body deliver Emilee safely. And most of all, I'm thankful to God for a strong healthy baby!<br />
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</div>Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-189982408348666922012-02-26T11:14:00.000-08:002012-02-26T11:15:33.581-08:00Close Impact & Baby UpdateWe are a little over two weeks away from finally meeting our baby girl! I can't believe how fast time flies, but let me tell you, I'm very ready to have my body back. The last month of pregnancy has brought on swelling to my ankles and feet. The added water retention has also caused me to have carpal tunnel syndrome (my fingers are numb as I write this).<br />
<br />
God-willing, I'm hoping to have an all-natural birth with no pain-killers. Learning about birth, I've realized that it's less scary and more beautiful than I originally thought. Sure there's gonna be some gross parts, and the pain will be intense... but the outcome, challenge, and fact that my body's built to do it all seems like a right of passage. Thank goodness for modern medicine in that should something be wrong, I can fully trust my Dr. to intervene. I'm just praying they won't have to. :-)<br />
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On a different note, I have to confess how thankful I am for life. Yesterday, my husband and I were getting ready to turn left onto the freeway on-ramp (might I add we had a green light), and this large black Dodge truck was barreling down the street towards us. There was an instant where everything slowed down in my mind, and I knew if we kept moving forward, the truck would have hit full impact on my side. I recall holding my belly, and thinking "<i>No! They are going to hit me and my baby!</i>". I shouted out about the truck, my husband saw and hit the brakes, and the truck slid by, not even a foot away from us and not even stopping. <br />
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Looking at the back of the truck, I'll admit that I was angry they went by too fast for me to flip them off... but then again, road rage never helped anyone. We got onto the freeway safely, where the shock melted away and I began to cry. This was only the second time in my life that I had been scared to tears. The thought of being injured, or possibly killed and losing our first baby was overwhelming.<br />
<br />
I'm so thankful God watched out for us yesterday, and I pray for safer drivers... because there are too many people in a hurry, too many people drunk at the wheel, and not everyone escapes being a victim from a careless car wreck.Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-89714060309102844272011-12-02T12:15:00.001-08:002011-12-02T12:16:17.635-08:00Motherhood in Pregnancy<div>
It has been a very busy year! And while I must admit that I've enjoyed working full-time, I'm very much looking forward to being a stay-at-home mom in a few short months! Hopefully keeping my blog more up-to-date as well, granted the baby allows me enough time to do so. </div>
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I've begun to realize that motherhood is a journey that starts the minute you find out you're expecting! While you have to patiently wait 9 months to see and hold your little one, the preparation and self-discipline begins right away. Prepping a nursery can be all-consuming, and instinctive! Keeping the home clean becomes even more important, as well as trying to eat healthy for your growing baby. Everything I do now incorporates our baby. From knowing my new physical limits, disciplining my eating habits, and practicing patience in almost everything I do.</div>
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Dogs are a good prepping tool for patience. Our little dog loves to be treated like a baby, and can constantly test my husband's and my patience. We simply look at each other and laugh, when we think of how much more love and patience a baby is going to need!</div>
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Expectations are also something that can be thrown out the window once you enter Motherhood. I expected to live by the toilet my first trimester, and was pleasantly surprised to have very mild morning sickness. I expected to start showing by 4 months - I finally started showing around 5-1/2 to 6 months (and I still can hide my bump with a sweat jacket!). I expected to have a baby boy - God has blessed us with a little girl! I'm sure that once she's born, any remaining expectations will fly out the window!</div>
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Overall, pregnancy has been a beautiful and strange experience. I love feeling the kicks and movements, but it's also strange to see your stomach move! I love that I'm starting to finally look pregnant, but there's definitely numbers on the scale that are foreign to me! Probably my favorite part of everything, has been the bonding experience. I'm so in love with this little person I have yet to meet - it's a miracle to me to experience the beginnings of a new life!</div>Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7642982566129913146.post-30875831226406591202011-09-03T20:02:00.000-07:002012-04-17T11:25:01.206-07:00Let me tell you about ultrasounds...I must admit, for my first pregnancy, this has been wonderful so far! Besides the queasiness, I haven't gotten sick once, and now that I'm 12 weeks along entering the 2nd trimester, the queasiness is now fading. Baby has been good to mommy too, craving lots of fruits, salads and yogurt! I must have hit the jackpot for cravings! Healthy for both mommy and baby. :-) I hope this is a sign of our baby's appetite to come - actually eating their veggies!<br />
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I've also been getting some energy back, and packing up our little 1 bedroom apartment, making ready for our move to a 2 bedroom closer to my husband's work. I am so excited to start on the baby's nursery, I wish we could find out what we are having sooner!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4Lvvq5e1_F9MZLySd9ma4_kpMR1PNFhh2RYxQW02kq74if5W7S8YWZF9D2jrEzOd3Zx1Z7HjxuixraaPgVg5hYR6uHAt21eXBfRJk75_zqkpHwRz22DCQ8_l9vFdGGSUuxvT2Mh7hsE/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4Lvvq5e1_F9MZLySd9ma4_kpMR1PNFhh2RYxQW02kq74if5W7S8YWZF9D2jrEzOd3Zx1Z7HjxuixraaPgVg5hYR6uHAt21eXBfRJk75_zqkpHwRz22DCQ8_l9vFdGGSUuxvT2Mh7hsE/s200/photo.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Here is our little one's latest ultrasound. We were so lucky to have such a cute picture of the baby facing us! Baby was wiggling all around, and very healthy. You can even see the little hands. <br />
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But let me tell you a little something about ultrasounds... they are exciting and so rewarding to see your baby, but having to drink 24 oz. of water 1 hour before and holding it is torture! By the time I was called in, I had my mind on finding a restroom, but had to lay in the bed for 10-15 minutes while they pressed on my already too full bladder, measuring the baby. After they took the measurements, they called my husband in to show us both the baby on the screen. By this point, my bladder had been pressed on for at least 15-20 minutes. I was clutching the side of the bed, breathing steady, trying to focus on the baby and not the bathroom around the corner. <br />
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Anyway, it's all worth it of course! But definitely uncomfortable!Candace Otthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08333682764324515782noreply@blogger.com1