tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69271249940132318352024-03-18T23:52:00.924-05:00Reporting for Duty: Mommyhoodapril stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-74039336324610812652014-05-09T13:42:00.002-05:002014-05-09T13:42:46.101-05:00Ozeri Extravo Wine Opener<div style="text-align: center;">
After a long week at work and taking care of kids I think any mom could relate when I say that a nice glass of wine after dinner is just what you need to start the weekend off right. </div>
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Well lucky for me I got to test the Ozeri Extravo Wine Opener and boy was I amazed! </div>
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It is not that big so it doesn't take up a lot of space which is good in my kitchen where room is tight. It has a slicer thing that will cut the foil off the bottle before you pop the cork and then you just simply put the opener on the bottle and push down on the outer ring on top and it will automatically pop the cork! There is not twisting and breaking of the cork (like I always manage to do!) by manually doing it. And what is even better is when you push the smaller circle on top it unscrews the cork from the opener and it all stays in one piece! It also comes with a bottle stopper that is in two pieces so if you want to pour some later all you have to do it pull the middle piece out and there you go!</div>
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This product is so easy to use compared to some of the other automatic wine </div>
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openers out there and it is so reasonably priced too. If you are in the market for a wine opener then look no further because this is the one for you! I can't wait to go home and use it tonight!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-31708532855093624842014-04-02T21:23:00.001-05:002014-04-02T21:23:09.105-05:00Top 5 Garage Sale Tips<div style="text-align: center;">
It's beginning to be that season again. Spring is here and it is slowly starting to warm up, which means people are starting to come out of hibernation and do some spring cleaning. With that spring cleaning comes garage sales. </div>
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Whether you do your own garage sale or perhaps a neighborhood one here are my top 5 tips for a successful garage sale.</div>
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1. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Advertise! Advertise! Advertise!</span></div>
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It used to be that really the only way to advertise for a garage sale was in the newspaper but now there are so many ways to get the word out there and for free! Craigslist, local Facebook pages, and of course the good old fashioned signs on the street corners just to name a few. </div>
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2. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Organization is Key</span></div>
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One of the first things a potential buyer does it does a "look see" from his car window and he slowly goes to possibly park their car. If the sale is not organized and things are just carelessly slopped on the tables or on the ground on a blanket most people won't stop. If you take the time and hang clothes up nicely on a clothes rack it will come off to the customer that you have taken care of those clothes and are organized. You can get clothes racks for as cheap as 9.99. You might have to spend a little bit of money for organization (like renting tables, buying clothes racks, etc.) but it will make up for it in the sales.</div>
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3. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Eye Catching Signs</span></div>
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This kind of goes hand in hand with organization but if you put small signs up over items like the clothes rack that say "Unless marked items are (money amount) each. That way it saves YOU from a million of the same questions! </div>
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4. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Have Enough Change</span></div>
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It looks really bad on you if your customer comes up to pay and he owes 4.50 and hands you a $20 bill and you look back and say "sorry I don't have change." I have seen a person put the stuff down and leave. Especially those expert garage salers because they know they can probably get something similar at another sale. I recommend to have twenty $1 bills and about 5 dollars in various coins just to completely prepared.</div>
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5. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Be Prepared to Bargain</span></div>
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Not everyone that comes to your sale is going to willingly pay the price you have listed. Most anyone knows that you can haggle your way to a lower price but you have to pick and choose your battles. If it is a small difference in price I usually am okay with it because really what is the point in spring cleaning if you aren't going to get rid of it. I will usually cut a few dollars out too if someone is buying a bulk of my clothes or round it down to the nearest dollar just to make it more appealing to them. </div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-28563391727864203762014-03-21T09:02:00.001-05:002014-03-21T09:02:13.326-05:00Influenster Review - Rimmel London Moisture Renew Lipstick <div style="text-align: center;">
A few weeks ago I found out about <a href="http://www.influenster.com/" target="_blank">Influenster</a> which is free to join community of trendsetters, consumers, social media hotshots where you can give your opinions on products and experiences. As you fill out surveys and do reviews on products your Influenster scores rises and you can qualify for special reviews for testing purposes...like the Rimmel London Moisture Renew Lipstick!</div>
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This review was actually a lot of fun because lipstick is always the one thing that I am the least knowledgeable about in terms of makeup.</div>
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I enjoyed testing out this lipstick because one it actually does keep your lips moist without feeling like your lipstick is cracking your lips. This was actually the perfect time for me to test this lipstick because my lips have been dry and a little chapped lately with the crazy weather. The lipstick worked so well that I didn't feel like I needed to moisturize my lips with chap-stick on top of it. It also doesn't smudge off if you give someone a kiss too (which is an added bonus because what husband wants big red lip prints on his cheek!). I also didn't feel like it was caked on my lips either and it went on really smooth. </div>
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The only thing for me that I wasn't 100% on was the color BUT that is just because I usually don't wear something that bright. However that was the color given to me for testing purposes and Renew Moisture Lipstick comes in lots of shades so I wouldn't mark it as a bad thing.</div>
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I definitely think I am going to keep using this lipstick for date nights and also go out and buy some more for daytime wear but I highly recommend trying out Rimmel London Moisture Renew Lipstick!</div>
<br />april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-89569411572269144842014-03-17T18:24:00.001-05:002014-03-17T18:24:30.209-05:00Ozeri© 8" Green Earth Pan™ Review<div style="text-align: center;">
This past weekend I had the pleasure of reviewing the Green Earth Pan ™ by Ozeri©. </div>
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This review was one of my favorites because I love to cook and who doesn't love to try out a new pan!! </div>
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This pan has a natural ceramic coating and is non stick (it is actually is too!) and the best part is that it is free of PTFE, PFOA and other harmful chemicals. Basically when the pan heats up it doesn't release any harmful chemicals that are released in most other pans when heated to high temps. </div>
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One of the things I liked about this pan is that it requires very little oil to use. I mean I probably used maybe a teaspoon or a little more of the coconut oil to fry my eggs.It also does not need to heat up as much as other pans since the material that the pan is made of is a good conductor of heat. </div>
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I didn't make anything fancy in my pan just cooked breakfast for the family (egg and cheese sandwiches) but it worked wonderfully. It heated up fast just like the manual mentioned and it cooked it through evenly all the way like I said earlier it required very little oil to use. I would definitely recommend this pan to anyone that is looking to purchase new cookware. For the longest time I had wanted copper bottom pans because they were supposedly the best but this pan has changed my mind and makes me want ceramic pans!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-88280581218523232202014-03-03T09:30:00.003-06:002014-03-03T13:42:12.504-06:00Weekly Meal Planner<div style="text-align: center;">
Anyone else like me and every night is a rush to figure out what to make for dinner? Can't figure out what to make well fear not! Here is a super easy meal planner to do!<br />
Not only will it make dinner time less stressful but it is also super easy to make!<br />
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You will need:<br />
8x10 frame<br />
hot glue gun<br />
clothes pins<br />
cardstock scrapbook paper<br />
small box ( i used a crayon box)<br />
alphabet stickers<br />
permanent marker<br />
magnets (optional)<br />
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First you will need to cut the scrapbook paper to fit into the frame. You will also remove the glass from the frame. Also at this time you can cut stripes of scrapbook paper and write each meal idea on them.<br />
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On the scrapbook paper you can put the alphabet stickers to say what you want. For mine I put Menu.<br />
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Next you write each day of the week in permanent marker on the clothes pins. Then you will hot glue the clothes pins to the side of the frame.<br />
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The hardest part is making the box for the meal ideas to fit into. I took a 24 count crayon box and cut scrapbook paper and glued it on all the edges to decorate it. You could also make an envelope out of the paper and put your meal ideas in that as well. When you have decided what to do glue it to the scrapbook paper.<br />
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Once you have this all done before you put it in the frame you can glue magnets to the back of the frame if you would like to hang this on your fridge. If not then you can always use the leg of the frame to have it rest on the countertop like a traditional picture frame.<br />
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-6576343435121459842014-02-24T09:16:00.000-06:002014-02-24T09:16:17.821-06:00Dear Facebook, It's Not You, It's Me...Yes that's right I am breaking up with you. Well maybe not a complete breakup but definitely a step back. While I love all that you offer me like connecting with old high school friends or old coworkers, let's face it you can be rather addictive! Everyone knows that you don't show ALL the status' from my friends so then I go searching and before I know it I have been on your site for over an hour! <br />
I am sorry but this has got to stop. I can't tell my kiddo that she can't be on her Ipad for hours at a time and then do the same thing on your site. So therefore I am putting a timer on our relationship much like I just did with my kid. So with all that said you and I can still be friends but I must seriously back off! <br />
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Love your faithful but not so addicted friend,<br />
<br />
April<br />
<br />
Anyone else feel this way? Unfortunately with all the technology Facebook isn't the only site that we become addicted to these days. There is Instagram, Pinterest, The Chive...I could go on. <br />
So how do you realize when you have spent too much time on these sites? And the more important question...How do you manage your time so you can balance it all out?april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-20440982819673072372014-02-09T21:51:00.004-06:002014-02-09T21:51:53.811-06:00Pinterest Pick of the Week - Mason Jar Holder<div style="text-align: center;">
So I always see mason jars at the grocery store, Michaels, dollar stores and pretty much any other crafty store in town. Finally I decided to have some fun and make something with a mason jar!<br />
I saw a pin on Pinterest where the mason jar had been spraypainted and that seemed easy and really fun! My nine year old has a million pencils and pens so a mason jar is the perfect thing for her to use to store them.<br />
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There are just a few things that you need:<br />
Mason jar of any size<br />
Spray paint (however many colors you want)<br />
GLITTER!<br />
Clear coat spray paint (if you decide to glitter your jar)<br />
Painters tape<br />
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Spray paint the whole mason jar. I did two coats but if you need more you can.</div>
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Put painters tape securely around the mason jar. Sprinkle the glitter all around. It might take a few times to get it all covered. I did it once and then added the clear coat and then did it again to make sure I had it all covered.</div>
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Make sure to let it dry before removing the tape. Once you do it is good to go and you can use it wherever you like!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-54561381567467736632014-02-03T11:23:00.001-06:002014-02-03T11:23:07.880-06:00Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie<div style="text-align: center;">
Protein is an important part of your daily food intake. There are many uses for it in your body such as build and repair tissue, and it is literally in every cell of your body! </div>
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With that here is a quick and easy protein smoothie that is protein rich and also tastes delicious! </div>
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1 Banana</div>
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1 cup ice (about 6-8 cubes)</div>
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1 Tbsn peanut butter</div>
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1 scoop of protein powder (I recommend either vanilla or chocolate)</div>
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1/2 to 3/4 cup (depending on how thick you want) 1% or skim milk</div>
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Put everything in a blender and then mix to your desired consistency. </div>
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This is great as a snack in the middle of your day or even in the morning when you are in a rush and don't have a lot of time to make anything else.</div>
april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-34019212051158933032014-01-29T21:43:00.001-06:002014-01-29T21:43:50.140-06:00Wednesday Workout - Legs!<div align="center">
Legs day at the gym is one of my most absolute favorite days because of how many different exercises you can do. You can isolate muscles and just do quads, hamstrings, glutes or you can do it all! But most of all who doesn't want to look good in a cute pair of shorts this summer!</div>
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I typically change up my workout routine every few months so my muscles don't get used the same motions and repititions. So here lately this past month this is what i have been doing. </div>
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<b>Goblet Squats</b>- 3 sets of 10-15 reps </div>
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This is one of the easiest squats to do and it provides a good warm up for your quads and hips. <br />
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<b>Leg Press Machine</b>- Single Leg Presses 2 sets of 10-12 reps and 3rd set to failure<br />
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<b>Good Mornings</b>- Use a 20-30lb barbell and set it on your shoulders behind your neck. While slightly bending you knees bend down until your back is parallel to the floor. Do this for 3 sets of 10-12 reps<br />
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<b>Glute Kickback Machine aka the Booty Blaster</b>- 3 sets of 12-15 reps<br />
One of my most favorite machines because it gives a good leg workout but it also works your glutes really well! I use 35-50lbs but please start lower and then work up if it is too easy. <br />
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<b>Hack Squat Machine</b>- 3 sets of 10-12 reps<br />
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<b>Calf Machine</b>- 2 sets of 10-15 reps and 3rd set to failure Depending on your gym there may be a few different machines (ie. seated calf raise, standing calf raise) so pick which one you feel works best for you.<br />
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<b>Lying Leg Curl</b>- 3 sets 10-12 reps<br />
One of the reasons I like the lying leg curl is that you can isolate your legs and do one at a time. You naturally have a dominate leg so by isolating and working each leg individually you are getting the equal amont of work for each leg.<br />
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These are just some of my favorite leg exercises. You can mix and match (ie quads, calves, hamstrings in one workout) or you can isolate and just work quad or just work hamstrings and you will still get a good workout.<br />
One of the biggest things I stress when lifting is form is the key! If you don't have good form you are setting yourself up for injury! Also go slow if you feel like you need to rush through the reps maybe take it down in weight so that way you can go slower to work on form and feel the burn just that much more.<br />
Also if you aren't sure of what these exercises are go check out <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/" target="_blank">Bodybuilding.com</a> as they have a workout section that goes over exercises for any part of the body. It is good to use to find new exercises so your muscles don't get used to the same 5 moves every time you work out!<br />
So go enjoy the workout!<br />
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*Editors note- I totally work this like 2 weeks ago but has had such a crazy schedule and didn't realize i didn't hit send! </div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-46868418870715346322014-01-13T21:33:00.001-06:002014-01-13T21:33:22.881-06:00Finding the Right Babysitter<div style="text-align: center;">
The time has come that we have started to look for a babysitter for the girls. It will be nice to have a night out every once a month or so but also with our work schedules getting only crazier it is good to have someone that we can count on. Sure we have lots of friends here that watch the girls for us but I don't want to strain any friendships over it as it has happened to me (the one being strained) in the past.</div>
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So with this babysitter thing officially decided I need help! What questions do you ask your potential babysitter? I know obvious ones...Are you CPR/First Aid certified? Do you have any references? etc. But what are some good ones you have used or can think of?</div>
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We are also looking to go through Care.com to find one but has anyone else found one a different way? I am not looking for a teenager in high school because if for some rare situation I need them during the week and I'm at work til midnight I know they wouldn't be available.</div>
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I am excited to have a more permanent sitter that the girls will get used to and have fun with but let me tell you this overprotective momma sure is nervous! Makes me wanna put some nanny cams all over my house when I leave!</div>
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So please pass along any advice you may have! </div>
april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-91459196123325343742014-01-04T18:03:00.000-06:002014-01-04T18:03:26.731-06:00New Year New Blogging Ideas!<div style="text-align: center;">
Welcome to 2014!!!</div>
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You may have noticed I took a leave of absence from the blog but I am back! I got back from my deployment at the end of November and needed some quality time with the family and to also re-adjust to mommy life again and it can take some getting used to after 7 months of just fending for myself. </div>
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This year I have taken on a different perspective for a New Years resolution. Instead of trying to do one or two things better why not just strive to make 2014 better than 2013?!lets be honest anyways when you make a specific resolution most times within a month you have already forgotten but I think just trying to make the whole year better in general doesn't quite put as much stress on it.</div>
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So here's to new blog ideas and a great new year!!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-50165715825134961692013-09-08T13:30:00.001-05:002013-09-08T13:31:05.131-05:00Weekend Workout - Crazy Cardio!<div style="text-align: center;">
So everyone knows why making cardio apart of your weekly workouts is good for you (heart healthy, builds endurance, speed up metabolism, etc) but I always get bored halfway through my workout so I combined a few together to always keep you on your toes.</div>
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I mixed plain ol running, high intensity interval training (HIIT) and incline walking all in one. It's super easy and because it is always changing there is no time for boredom and it is done in 35 minutes!</div>
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So here's the breakdown in minutes:</div>
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0:00-1:00- walking at 4.0</div>
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1:00-7:00- running at a steady running pace (I am slow like a turtle and run about a 6.5-6.8) but run at a 1.0 incline</div>
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7:00-9:00- walk at 4.0 </div>
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9:00-10:00- run at a 6.5</div>
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10:00-12:00- walk at 4.0</div>
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12:00-13:00: run at 7.0</div>
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13:00-15:00- walk at 4.0</div>
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15:00-16:00- run at 7.5</div>
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16:00-18:00- walk at 4.0</div>
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18:00-19:00- run at 8.0</div>
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19:00-21:00- walk at 4.0</div>
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21:00-22:00- run at 7.5</div>
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22:00-24:00- walk at 4.0</div>
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24:00-25:00- run at 7.0</div>
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25:00-27:00- walk at 4.0</div>
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27:00-28:00- run at 6.6</div>
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28:00-31:00- walk at 4.0 at a 8.0 incline</div>
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31:00-35:00- walk at 4.0 at a 15.0 incline</div>
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These are the speeds that I use when I do this workout of course you can adjust higher or lower for your workout based on what is comfortable. But I can say that you will be exhausted when you are done! </div>
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Happy Cardio!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-2567750497119131032013-08-28T12:55:00.002-05:002013-08-28T12:55:34.306-05:00Negative Nancy No More!<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so over being negative.</div>
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Seriously it is like a fire that continues to spread as more and more people around you are negative and then next thing you know it has consumed us all. </div>
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Well I am putting a stop to it in my life.</div>
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I have noticed lately that I have been more negative lately. I am not sure it is because this deployment is taking a toll on me or if it is just me letting society in general attempt to take over my life. What I mean by that is if you read this news what do you read? Negativity. There are so many things people are critical of on social media or people who just spew absolute hatred on there as well. And then there are people at work who are negative or "Debby Downers" and their infectious attitudes take you over too before you know it. </div>
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Besides why should I be so negative when I have so many positive things in my life. I have a perfect family, great friends, a job (while it takes me away from my family it most definitely provides for my family), and so many other positive things. So with all that being said I am officially calling September, the month of Positive. Every day I am going to find something to be that helps me be positive. Even when I am sure there are going to be days that will test my patience on this I know there will be something good that I can think of! </div>
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So follow me on Instagram and Twitter and use the hashtag #positive4life</div>
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So if you're having a bad day let little Miss O cheer you up with her sweet smile!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-7773342889496670252013-08-11T12:24:00.001-05:002013-08-11T12:24:13.218-05:00Weekend Workout<div style="text-align: center;">
Since I have been deployed I have struggled with what to write about because I feel like there is only so much to say before it seems like every day is Groundhog's Day here. And then it dawned on me...</div>
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Why not write about fitness! I became a certified personal trainer in June of last year and I truly enjoy working out so why not share the knowledge with you guys!<br />
One of my favorite things to do is work my core. It is one of the most important parts of your body to keep strong because you use your core more than you think you do; from proper posture to carrying kids around the house! So here are my top 5 core exercises.<br />
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1. Heel Touch<br />
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Keeping your legs as straight as possible lift your shoulders and your upper back off the ground to touch your heels. Do this for 30 seconds and try to get 15-20 reps.</div>
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2. Reach for the sky<br />
Start lying flat on your back with your arms extended past your head. Then bringing your arms up start to come up and lift your shoulders up. Continue keeping your arms straight until you are fully upright. You can do this with or without a weight. Do this for 60 seconds and try for 30 reps. *Note I only have photos of the 2nd and 3rd steps as I couldn't zoom out enough in my room to get the first step in.<br />
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3. Boat</div>
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Extend your arms straight out and keep your legs out as well. It is important to keep your back straight and not slouch. Hold this position for 30-45 seconds. This works all the core as it is a good balancing exercise too.</div>
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4. Russian Twist<br />
Assuming the position twist from side to side touching the ground as you do it and do this for 30-45 seconds. You can also use a weight instead of clasping your hands together.<br />
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5. Plank<br />
Hold this position and it is very important not to let your back sag as that can cause some lower back pain. You can do this on your elbows as shown below or also on your hands will your arms fully extended. Hold this for 30 seconds. Alternate dropping one knee lightly to the ground for another 30 seconds if you want to kick it up a notch. This will also work your shoulders and triceps.<br />
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6. Side Plank</div>
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This can also be called a side bridge. Hold this position below for 30 seconds. Then alternate to the other side and hold for 30 more seconds. You can do this in conjunction with a regular plank. This works your side obliques and shoulders too.</div>
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These are just some of the many ab exercises out there but they are easy to do at home and don't take very long to do at all. And you can always increase your time or reps if you want to increase the intensity of the workout. </div>
april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-15808133625781545642013-07-21T14:05:00.001-05:002013-07-21T14:05:20.010-05:00How Time Flies!<div style="text-align: center;">
It has been FOREVER since I have written on here! I totally thought coming here I would have ample amounts of time to blog to my heart's content...WRONG! I am so busy all the time and I swear I have more free time at home working full time and taking care of the kiddos than I do here kiddo free! But I will say that I have actually had a pretty good time so far on my deployment and I can't really complain because there are far worse places to be! So here is the run down of things I have gotten to experience since the last time I blogged.</div>
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1. Met the Secretary of State John Kerry<br />
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2. Experienced the culture off base</div>
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3. Got to work with the Singapore Air Force</div>
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4.My hubby came to visit!<br />
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Until next time folks! Which I promise won't be another month and a half :) Enjoy!</div>
april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-72771927340680702782013-05-26T13:15:00.000-05:002013-05-26T13:15:19.578-05:002 weeks down!<div style="text-align: center;">
You know that song "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall"...yea that should be my theme song on this deployment. Maybe it will make the time go by faster. </div>
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I feel like I should give you all an insight into my "deployment." It isn't really that hard...really the hardest part is being away from the family (a no brainer) and finding things to do to fill the time. </div>
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I am at a pretty nice base with quite a bit of amenities such as a movie theater; which by the way we get new releases just as you guys do so that makes it nice. We also have an outdoor pool, a gym, and a bunch of restaurants in case the chow hall gets to be bland. And it does fairly quickly I might add. And there is free wifi...yes I can't really complain about where I am at considering there are worse places I could be. </div>
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One of the perks of being where I am is that we can take a cultural tour off base. I can't wait to do one but I might add that I'm a little nervous because I hear that the drivers here literally have the world's worst road rage and accidents per capita. Yikes! But it will be an adventure non the less and I can't wait to see how other people in this world live so differently than us. </div>
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So this is a picture of my small abode here. </div>
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So this is small abode here. </div>
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It is my part of the room as there is also a bathroom and two other bunk beds. I am just now getting a roommate so 2 weeks without one has been pretty nice. </div>
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So I am adjusting fairly well to the time difference and to the heat...it has only been 108 so far!! It is strange because some people think that since I am a "weather girl" that I am used to this heat...umm negative. When I left Arkansas it was only high 70s!</div>
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Well as most of you are starting to wake it is actually bedtime for me so until we write again...see you soon!</div>
april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-86494819870712089272013-05-13T16:05:00.000-05:002013-05-13T16:05:00.760-05:00Potted Plants Project<div style="text-align: center;">
Potted Plants Project...can you say that three times fast?!?! The easy DIY craft is not as hard as saying that is thankfully! If you're looking for something fun and easy to do with the kids this summer this is just for you!</div>
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All you need is ceramic pots from any store that sells lawn and garden stuff, some paint, a paintbrush and some paper towels cuz it could get messy!</div>
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You can have your kiddos do any design. I had my oldest use your hand prints because her hands and feet were too big to make a butterfly. My littlest one made a butterfly using her feet and it came out so cute! </div>
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This is a super fun AND super cheap way to have a fun crafty afternoon with the kids!!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-43736561915899854202013-05-11T15:54:00.000-05:002013-05-11T15:54:04.771-05:00Honest Company Discovery Kit<div style="text-align: center;">
For the most part I dislike the sponsored posts that show up on your wall on Facebook. However that changed when the Honest Company post showed up. I had heard of the company and I knew it was started by Jessica Alba and that it didn't use all the chemicals that most companies use in their products. </div>
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So I thought what the heck let's try this out. </div>
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Best choice EVER. </div>
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So in the Discovery Kit it contains a sample of their diapers in all their fun patterns. I mean who wouldn't doesn't like cute diapers! They also include a sample pack of their wipes. </div>
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My favorite thing about the diapers besides being super cute is that if you order their diaper bundle every month you get all different designs AND it is shipped to your doorstep. How nice is it to not have to run to the store every week because you need diapers! This is also the only other diaper I have found that my little munchkin doesn't leak out of! Also my little one has to use sensitive wipes or she breaks out and their wipes are perfect and don't irritate her skin.</div>
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Modeling the new diapers!</div>
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They also send you a sample of their Family Essentials. It is a their laundry detergent, body wash, shampoo and conditioner, lotion, etc. I have to say that I haven't used it yet because I brought it with me on my "trip over the pond." But I will say that I am so excited to use it and I'll be posting later on how it works!</div>
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In the words of Siskel and Ebert I give this company two thumbs up! I love baby products and it is even better that they are chemical free!</div>
april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-49329373804734608112013-05-01T22:38:00.002-05:002013-05-02T22:07:50.379-05:00Socially Yours: Invitation Review<div style="text-align: center;">
I have had the privilege of reviewing invitations for Socially Yours. Socially Yours is an online invitation site that was among the first to sell their invitations online and before that have been in the business since 1994. What makes these invitations even more personal is that a few of the original 9 designs showcased her two young sons and are still some of the best selling invitations on the site!<br />
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One of my favorite invitations on the site is <a href="http://www.sociallyyours.com/products/1448-yellow-and-white-daisy-floral-party-invitation.aspx" target="_blank">Yellow and White Floral Party Invitations</a>. I am a fan of flowers and even more so flowers that have bright colors that stand out to viewers. It is perfect because you can use it for any type of spring or summer party. Whether it is a family get together, birthday party or bridal shower it works perfectly. </div>
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I also loved the <a href="http://www.sociallyyours.com/products/849-precious-patriotic-baby-invitation.aspx" target="_blank">Precious Patriotic Baby Invitation</a>! I am a sucker for babies and putting a baby on an invitation makes it an instant favorite for me! It is perfect for any type of patriotic party like 4th of July, Memorial Day, or Veterans Day. It also is the perfect baby announcement for a military family! LOVE LOVE LOVE babies!</div>
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Are you on the hunt for a bridal shower invitation? Look no further because this next one is perfect. The <a href="http://www.sociallyyours.com/products/1258-satin-white-wedding-gown-and-colorful-floral-bouquet-bridal-invitation.aspx" target="_blank">Satin White Wedding Gown and Colorful Floral Bouquet Bridal Invitation</a> is just what you are looking for. Like I said earlier I am a huge fan of colorful flowers and the bouquet in this invitation is exactly that. I love the detail in the wedding dress and flowers and it just makes it have that classic beauty feel. </div>
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It was so hard to choose a favorite wedding invitation but I must say that I loved the <a href="http://www.sociallyyours.com/products/1375-bride-and-groom-first-steps-wedding-invitation.aspx" target="_blank">Bride and Groom First Steps Wedding Invitation</a> from the first moment I saw it. Everyone knows how important it is to find the perfect wedding dress BUT I think that having a good pair of heels for your dress is like the icing on the cake and the beautiful red heels in this invitation do just that. This card is perfect just like how any wedding should be! This invitation can be used as a wedding invitation or you could use it as thank you cards also. </div>
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Last but certainly not least is birthday cards! Being that my littlest just celebrated her first birthday I enjoyed all the birthday invitations. <a href="http://www.sociallyyours.com/products/1296-baby-girl-in-flowerpot-with-orange-and-yellow-flowers-baby-invitation.aspx" target="_blank">Baby Girl in Flowerpot with Orange and Yellow Flowers</a> is just the invitation for any spring or summer birthday party. The cute innocence of this darling baby staring at the flowers could put a smile on anyone's face! </div>
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One of my favorite things about this site is the variety of all the invitations. Whether you are having a beach wedding or a rustic country one there are invitations for it all. This company has proven its quality, creativity, and customer service for the past 18 years so why not trust your needs to them! </div>
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And for a limited time they are offering a code for 15% off your order! Just use the code Summer VIP! </div>
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Enjoy! </div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-31126735597446027522013-04-24T19:51:00.000-05:002013-04-24T19:51:20.947-05:00Wordless Wednesday- The New Orleans Experience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-11900416305221729602013-04-09T16:35:00.001-05:002013-04-09T16:35:56.209-05:00When Duty Calls...I've been in the military now for almost 12 years and I can say that for the majority of it I have loved it. It is a great job, great pay and benefits and I have lived in places I never would have had I not joined. <br />
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However the one downside to being in the military is the deployments. For the last 4 years I have been on the "single parent" side of it...meaning Justin has been the one deploying and I have been home by myself with the girls. Well that is all about to change.<br />
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Last week I got short noticed tasked for a deployment. It isn't a hard place to go to and it is one of the safest places to deploy to so I'm thankful for that BUT just when I thought I had made to the safe zone and wouldn't get tasked they snuck a secret play on me. Alas it's my job and I have to go so I'm learning to make the best of it.<br />
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I'll get more pay, start my masters, see a new country and I'll be the "boss" while I'm there so that will help my annual report. <br />
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So here in the next month I'll be "Reporting for Duty!"<br />
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In the meantime say a prayer for the hubby! He's only ever had the girls by himself for an evening when I've had to work the late shift so this will be an eye opening experience for him!<br />
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-27879392436291784912013-03-26T12:00:00.000-05:002013-03-26T12:00:01.726-05:00Adding a Signature to Your Blog<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Adding a signature to your blog is extremely easy and not only will it help personalize your blog but it will allows you to put some of your personality into each post even more!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are many ways to design your signature but I am going to go over how to do it using a signature website.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One website that allows you to create your signature is <a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">MyLiveSignature</span></a>. I'm not going to go over every step because the website is very self explanatory but from the main page click on "Start Now" to begin.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once you have finished making your signature save it as a image on your computer.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now you will need to upload the image onto an image hosting site such as <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://s1078.photobucket.com/" target="_blank">Photobucket</a> </span>(it's a free site too). Then retrieve the image URL. On Photobucket the URL can be found by clicking the "share to other services" here:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chose links at the top from the popup window and double click on the HTML code to copy it.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now go to Blogger and select <b>Template</b>, click <b>Edit HTML</b>, and then check the box <b>Expand Widgets Templates</b>.<b> </b>Once there search for the code <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><b>div class=’post-footer’ </b>and use the first instance of this code. Insert the image URL in the line IMMEDIATELY above the code and select preview to make sure it posted properly. Then hit save. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">**It is important to make sure you use "<" and ">" when putting the image URL into the template. </span></div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-74411364610774758762013-03-25T11:18:00.000-05:002013-03-25T11:18:15.886-05:00Decorative Wooden Letter DIY<div style="text-align: center;">
Ever see those decorative wooden letters on wreaths and wonder how you can get one? Well it is really easy to make AND it is cheap too!</div>
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You can get the supplies at any craft store and Walmart even carries it all too.</div>
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You will need:</div>
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Wooden letter</div>
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Glue Gun</div>
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Newspaper (to put under craft project for spills)</div>
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Decorative gems (used for potted plants, vases, etc)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwq07ZQBolS_2GjOK_v-afWVlzXP5gHZeQkWKKQZ8YC2WX5DGxXHpHEuGHqKjjzN-4W5PRoa1tFhjY5JMt3etxBLuni_6bJbFWy6Zv0knVDXahtX87IOA770p-FnPcttSI_3EhGgDSeQ/s1600/photo-28.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwq07ZQBolS_2GjOK_v-afWVlzXP5gHZeQkWKKQZ8YC2WX5DGxXHpHEuGHqKjjzN-4W5PRoa1tFhjY5JMt3etxBLuni_6bJbFWy6Zv0knVDXahtX87IOA770p-FnPcttSI_3EhGgDSeQ/s320/photo-28.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Your supplies</div>
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Glue the gems onto the wooden letter. Be careful when placing the gems down as they will permanently stick immediately when you place them.</div>
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This project only takes about 10 minutes to complete and then you can hang with your beautiful wreath!</div>
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-55536151720024920312013-03-21T16:39:00.001-05:002013-03-24T22:49:17.827-05:00Throwback ThursdayIn honor of my sweet "Taterbug" turning 9 yesterday this post is dedicated to her! <br />
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It seems like just yesterday I was told I was going to have a baby in a few short hours. At almost 21 years old I hadn't a clue what I was getting into bit I was ready for the challenge nonetheless. <br />
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Now I have a smart beautiful and talented 9 year that has taught more about life than I thought was possible. I can only hope that when she is a "teenager" that we are still as close now and she still thinks cool!<br />
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P.S. Don't forget to enter the Magazine Giveaway for your daughter!! </div>
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<a href="http://amomreportingforduty.blogspot.com/2013/03/magazine-review-be-your-own-you-and.html" target="_blank">Be Your Own You Magazine Giveaway</a></div>
april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927124994013231835.post-91668967202029021132013-03-13T07:05:00.001-05:002013-03-17T15:35:07.039-05:00Magazine Review: Be Your Own You and Subscription Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A few weeks ago I was approached to do a magazine review for a magazine called <a href="http://www.BYOUmagazine.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Be Your Own You</span></a>. I hadn't ever heard of it but from the email it described the magazine as <i>"</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i>the premier provider of positive self-esteem messaging for “tween” girls, with the mission to empower them to become a positive force in tomorrow’s world. We have created the perfect balance of entertainment and education; teaching self-esteem in fun, yet powerful, ways that makes a long-lasting impact on a girl’s life. We feature stories and information on current topics and challenges girls face today (such as bullying, body image, and friendships), positive self-affirming messaging, and popular teen/tween celebrities who are positive role models and making a difference in the world." </i>Well naturally that caught my attention because I have a daughter that is almost 9 (only a few weeks!) and she is entering those "tween" years. So I thought what could be better for her than to have a magazine like this that she can read.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMIV1aqxzHArovx25i8EC-x1tKqG2bW137STxIY8vXYtpcYL7t9-UqsvgrOQ94t7ry3EMjxYQ1bHPuKxATP4npG_3jRSbDQTeRdogIQzSSzAFC7rbszpUcc3XEY7arQrhtTWQW2QvKpMY/s1600/BYOU_Logo-sparkle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMIV1aqxzHArovx25i8EC-x1tKqG2bW137STxIY8vXYtpcYL7t9-UqsvgrOQ94t7ry3EMjxYQ1bHPuKxATP4npG_3jRSbDQTeRdogIQzSSzAFC7rbszpUcc3XEY7arQrhtTWQW2QvKpMY/s320/BYOU_Logo-sparkle.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">I read through the magazine before I gave it to Taylor to read and I love this magazine so much I don't even where to start!!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">First off this magazine isn't covered with girls trying to look older with lots of makeup on and talking about nothing but boys. I love how this magazine isn't forcing the girls to act older than what they are! This magazine inspires them to reach for goals, ways you can face your fears, DIY crafts and stories from women and girls that can inspire them. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">There was a story on how to start your own business and Taylor read it and next thing you know she is coming up to me asking to use the computer so she can write things to do for her own business! Love that!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">They also have an apparel store that sells shirts that say Be Your Own You. I think that slogan is so important because nowadays girls have so much peer pressure on them to be like someone else or to act older or whatever the case may be but these clothes let them know that it is OK to be you!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Right away the first thing Taylor saw was the cover model and recognized her from a Disney tv show. Her name is Olivia Holt and the interview with her was awesome. She discusses her charity work and how important it is, and most of all she seems very down to earth. She talks about the small town that she is from and how at one point she bullied by kids for pursuing her dreams of being an actress. She gives pointers for dealing with it since unfortunately it happens more in school now. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveFOtuqUGg3-W5Vu_0BfGwfHaR8lUI4gsF4klAD5zrKx9kKg3-jcTVg5Wqwe6fm-0oRrYPkMiyCxg7qE8ehbp3-mpfu_BlLWqCZIkU6H6j3b8iRot2EcQLzwMYX7tD27PTbBOul_WgJU/s1600/BYOU_DecJan_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveFOtuqUGg3-W5Vu_0BfGwfHaR8lUI4gsF4klAD5zrKx9kKg3-jcTVg5Wqwe6fm-0oRrYPkMiyCxg7qE8ehbp3-mpfu_BlLWqCZIkU6H6j3b8iRot2EcQLzwMYX7tD27PTbBOul_WgJU/s320/BYOU_DecJan_Cover.jpg" width="246" /></span></a></div>
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Dec/Jan Issue I reviewed</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Sg9WNc6jfsJtD3yk5EntmVXCqudpULJ34BVMKrg3MgIlJkyDCX5fYL50DPNZMPgjnm_h2vxWpVKMe50Lj1dwA9_V-_jbPwBMI83eouyyu8m3qlXCWNffXVv3pnhwkAfjk5B_2u8FZoc/s1600/BYOU_FebMar13_Cover2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Sg9WNc6jfsJtD3yk5EntmVXCqudpULJ34BVMKrg3MgIlJkyDCX5fYL50DPNZMPgjnm_h2vxWpVKMe50Lj1dwA9_V-_jbPwBMI83eouyyu8m3qlXCWNffXVv3pnhwkAfjk5B_2u8FZoc/s320/BYOU_FebMar13_Cover2.jpg" width="246" /></span></a></div>
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The Feb/Mar issue</div>
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So what is better than this awesome review? Have a giveaway for you to see yourself how awesome this magazine is!!!</div>
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That's right one lucky winner will get a free year's subscription to the magazine. I know your daughter's will love this magazine as much as mine does!</div>
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So here are the rules for the giveaway:</div>
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1. Follow the magazine on one of their social media sites:</div>
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<span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">(I trust you all that you will do this!)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">2. Share this post on one social media site and then comment below and attach the link of where you shared it to.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">So easy!!!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">*** You can also get a bonus entry for any person you send to this blog and they comment that you sent them!***</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">So go out and share this magazine with the world. Seriously...it's an awesome magazine and girls will love it!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Hurry the giveaway ends on April 1st! (It really does..not an April Fools joke!)</span></span><br />
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april stanfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04318019697765684049noreply@blogger.com3