tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80816950785952658262024-03-12T22:41:54.001-04:00From My Hearth to YoursAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.comBlogger237125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-71314805994241476772014-12-12T09:59:00.001-05:002014-12-12T09:59:23.054-05:00Make a Headband Holder Out of an Oatmeal Container<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Got all your girly headbands squished into a drawer?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cut that out and try this fun project to make your own headband holder out of an oatmeal container!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You know your wrapping paper is already out this Decemeber.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Put it to good use. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij0AKgdsPhjJxr8nY71-IVKTjXdSFAXMKcblzsJPtabrMy7xboGTdT8kkYapgExUQ7PkDov9fB9gA8r1FFMs7OsV5tlQnKQQ3LoD3ZBAzrs6o5SgalHMxl83oI9xnTLUEVbuDuPEI8VqI/s1600/DSC_0103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij0AKgdsPhjJxr8nY71-IVKTjXdSFAXMKcblzsJPtabrMy7xboGTdT8kkYapgExUQ7PkDov9fB9gA8r1FFMs7OsV5tlQnKQQ3LoD3ZBAzrs6o5SgalHMxl83oI9xnTLUEVbuDuPEI8VqI/s1600/DSC_0103.jpg" height="640" title="Make a Headband Holder Out of an Oatmeal Container" width="422" /></a></div>
Pick up a standard 42oz. oatmeal container at your local grocery store. We emptied the contents into a large Ziplock bag for storage.<br />
<br />
Dig through your wrapping paper arsenal and choose a print you like to cover the outside of the container.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkxdg3LqiHTNPflDF_iz9LGWV2rDozaqmfU3DFDOmAaaFJq1ozZEFagpfWmNsWJ75ofMEbF7Zu8fdmmWV9J0JqmbjB-0h95WdozgsEh95DlZV7fvqvyiGjB2-9jNPNCdtL1ELlY5cDDI/s1600/DSC_0093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkxdg3LqiHTNPflDF_iz9LGWV2rDozaqmfU3DFDOmAaaFJq1ozZEFagpfWmNsWJ75ofMEbF7Zu8fdmmWV9J0JqmbjB-0h95WdozgsEh95DlZV7fvqvyiGjB2-9jNPNCdtL1ELlY5cDDI/s1600/DSC_0093.jpg" height="640" title="Make a Headband Holder Out of an Oatmeal Container" width="422" /></a></div>
Wrap and tape it up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGcsv4D34xeKRGoZ_qXDDTW9UoE8r1A_i2Eoz9aXJoVZh4Q1JvhOqD3gp8tg3lCmKHI-Bgt8HAAMdxuMjcaieBmDDEadCiXjztrhKBCJuIF32HXeSXLE-qWWA6HaPLfVEStt1-wmv1J4/s1600/DSC_0096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGcsv4D34xeKRGoZ_qXDDTW9UoE8r1A_i2Eoz9aXJoVZh4Q1JvhOqD3gp8tg3lCmKHI-Bgt8HAAMdxuMjcaieBmDDEadCiXjztrhKBCJuIF32HXeSXLE-qWWA6HaPLfVEStt1-wmv1J4/s1600/DSC_0096.jpg" height="640" title="Make a Headband Holder Out of an Oatmeal Container" width="422" /></a></div>
If your lid has a hard-to-remove label or logo, consider tracing the shape onto another piece of paper and wrapping that as well. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnncLV_8_pPX5Io0cYq7XoJ0gbSRlxw_ApI4zc4Bny7fYUTbyFtMoh90iM3cZ2g7kTywN_B2Kvokp6i-AdvTd869f5p7wxCHDdFwocXZKL_uphb3LoU484zn4NGp4t1PMvOGAbpsUyA0/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnncLV_8_pPX5Io0cYq7XoJ0gbSRlxw_ApI4zc4Bny7fYUTbyFtMoh90iM3cZ2g7kTywN_B2Kvokp6i-AdvTd869f5p7wxCHDdFwocXZKL_uphb3LoU484zn4NGp4t1PMvOGAbpsUyA0/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" height="422" title="Make a Headband Holder Out of an Oatmeal Container" width="640" /></a></div>
Gather your headbands and wrap them around the newly fashioned container.<br />
<br />
Voila! <br />
The size fits headbands perfectly and keeps them neat and organized!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBCvsbTJPTfJiZ-L6RTdFCDkKUgJ4vGAS9okrZmfA_3lqwxCBfRhIxRvb_dbCpvOixguryZKUOqxUYPDvjNzoa7c6PSQJI4K66rFPHb00aH-3_M2nEIvV966SqA3a0P4nTLnyNFa0OkM/s1600/DSC_0101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBCvsbTJPTfJiZ-L6RTdFCDkKUgJ4vGAS9okrZmfA_3lqwxCBfRhIxRvb_dbCpvOixguryZKUOqxUYPDvjNzoa7c6PSQJI4K66rFPHb00aH-3_M2nEIvV966SqA3a0P4nTLnyNFa0OkM/s1600/DSC_0101.jpg" height="640" title="Make a Headband Holder Out of an Oatmeal Container" width="422" /></a></div>
Try this easy modification with your kiddos!<br />
<br />
Change the paper and design whenever the mood strikes, and this perfect shape will keep headbands from breaking or crumpling inside drawers.<br />
<br />
Such a fun and simple way to get organized.<br />
Get fancy!<br />
<br />
<i><b>If you have any other useful organizational tips for kiddo accessories, please send them our way.</b></i><br />
XOXO<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/"> From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<br />
<div class="post-footer" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.6; margin: 1.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-4075904527196747444" itemprop="description articleBody" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; width: 680px; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div class="separator" style="background-color: #e9edec; clear: both; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips. </i></b></div>
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-26285546586705920682014-11-25T10:55:00.001-05:002014-12-12T09:53:48.024-05:00The Thanks Board- Part II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFAOybS2_oczvRNHXzLfG1ebGM0vWtJC2gc1UJzBkoLaVsZmJdA6E_pfmHdxkg53a9ZQAnO6xElbuPH_cW3xlvP2HADm9aMD81zz4fjjeKpcybuJlh-2MnxLMmUYDcgyCVN9pG9gaUeQU/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFAOybS2_oczvRNHXzLfG1ebGM0vWtJC2gc1UJzBkoLaVsZmJdA6E_pfmHdxkg53a9ZQAnO6xElbuPH_cW3xlvP2HADm9aMD81zz4fjjeKpcybuJlh-2MnxLMmUYDcgyCVN9pG9gaUeQU/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" height="386" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Our 2014 Thanks Board is almost complete.<br />
<br />
Every morning in the month of November, at breakfast, we take turns listing and discussing something for which we are truly grateful.<br />
<br />
We're happy to see some of the same selections as last year (see our 2013 Thanks Board <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/11/the-thanks-board.html">here</a>), but even more pleased with the mature conversations sparked by this project.<br />
<br />
Sending out lots o' love to you and yours over this Thanksgiving holiday.<br />
So much to be grateful for…<br />
Snuggle up in the snow (safe travels, everyone!) and count your blessings!<br />
<br />
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<br />
<div class="post-footer" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.6; margin: 1.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-4075904527196747444" itemprop="description articleBody" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; width: 680px; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div class="separator" style="background-color: #e9edec; clear: both; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips. </i></b></div>
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-40759045271967474442014-11-19T09:56:00.001-05:002014-11-24T00:58:01.821-05:00Spicy Kale Chips: My Favorite Evening Snack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are definite reasons why kale is all the rage.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
High in vitamins, antioxidants, iron and calcium, <a href="http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-4408/Top-10-Health-Benefits-of-Eating-Kale.html">the benefits</a> of munching on this superfood are sure to impress.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we started collecting bunches of kale from our local CSA, I began baking it into chips and got hooked.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8KhoPdn6eZswYMx7p9WrjlU7YDjDMRhuKQhXTLZmxIuODCovnM5Oj5d-0qqOrnUybdXOCYnMIUtbzniLeAfwwO9V-Ec0MuwzQp485BNUt0NxwBK9fn9Xe8Xha_tdTbYSaX8-OWTg3AQ/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="spicy kale" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8KhoPdn6eZswYMx7p9WrjlU7YDjDMRhuKQhXTLZmxIuODCovnM5Oj5d-0qqOrnUybdXOCYnMIUtbzniLeAfwwO9V-Ec0MuwzQp485BNUt0NxwBK9fn9Xe8Xha_tdTbYSaX8-OWTg3AQ/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" height="422" title="kale chips" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My spicy kale chips are completely delicious, and their health benefits sure beat out my former evening snacks. Passing up chocolate for kale? Who'da thunk it?</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-To prepare, preheat oven to about 325F. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-Clean and dry about 4-5 kale leaves. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-Tear into bite-sized pieces and spread over a baking sheet. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-Lightly coat leaves with olive oil.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, to desired crispiness.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-Remove from heat and dust with seasoned salt and pepper flakes (see our amazing homemade recipe <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/08/for-those-who-like-it-hot-make-your-own.html">here</a>). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-Chow down!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaqnyQY1Uwhg5OaWHRFs_ZGB4XOAJHHFs7J3Jtnhbcgg73_Am4cfuprnyV7fz8O1uAVZdcsCwBlOKwz80LYy5SsvAeY5bTSbQGyDAG5fIhQO17eQ2umjxim60_QhQ39nLM499hl8jHO4/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="spicy kale" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaqnyQY1Uwhg5OaWHRFs_ZGB4XOAJHHFs7J3Jtnhbcgg73_Am4cfuprnyV7fz8O1uAVZdcsCwBlOKwz80LYy5SsvAeY5bTSbQGyDAG5fIhQO17eQ2umjxim60_QhQ39nLM499hl8jHO4/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" height="422" title="kale chips" width="640" /></a></div>
Never thought I'd pass up my former evening snacks for kale chips, but I just can't get enough of the unique flavor and crunchy goodness. Jazzed up with my signature spice, these chips make an incredibly delicious…and healthy munchie.<br />
<br />
Bake 'em and see.<br />
Couldn't be a simpler or more scrumptious late night snack!<br />
<br />
<b><i>What are your favorite ways to prepare kale? Send us new ideas.</i></b><br />
Have a happy chow sesh!<br />
<br />
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="background-color: #e9edec; clear: both; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips. </i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-14585730481755741092014-11-11T11:06:00.000-05:002014-11-24T00:57:49.095-05:00Throw a Camping Theme Party<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Got a camper in your crew?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We recently threw one BOSS camping-themed-birthday-party and wanted to share our shin-dig stylings with lil' campers everywhere.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our party was in early November, and good weather was paramount. We planned outdoor activities, of course, so we kept our eye on the forecast. Keep a rain date set as a back-up plan. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMximAh5ZE3U3qmgUpD84FMRgAQRocyfZiu1qGU0agC9cRJjTju7rui3IEQ0ueeBkm-vRYnwG8BLCHwLtq4MBdD3bnZt2Zg-vE9lz5rXEfVJI43J-1COa1PSxYLYvhnyI0FX4YurvW17I/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMximAh5ZE3U3qmgUpD84FMRgAQRocyfZiu1qGU0agC9cRJjTju7rui3IEQ0ueeBkm-vRYnwG8BLCHwLtq4MBdD3bnZt2Zg-vE9lz5rXEfVJI43J-1COa1PSxYLYvhnyI0FX4YurvW17I/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I found adorable camper party boxes, a camp-themed tablecloth, napkins, cups and plates, bug jars and bandanas (for party favors) at<a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/"> Oriental Trading Company</a> and ordered several weeks in advance. </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNHyDkVMCQEZkxJDSGfXWbqb6Bwf0Yii5GGsGRjw7tvU7uEGm5Q4UV0D8x6TkkMQeMINlbLqYDpbtqOu-J9lL5TdITX9iT8TVHrN6XgryFvwx2y6jM5WLC8Tu5s_ha8US9jVgQp-EJzM/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNHyDkVMCQEZkxJDSGfXWbqb6Bwf0Yii5GGsGRjw7tvU7uEGm5Q4UV0D8x6TkkMQeMINlbLqYDpbtqOu-J9lL5TdITX9iT8TVHrN6XgryFvwx2y6jM5WLC8Tu5s_ha8US9jVgQp-EJzM/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" height="422" title="Camping Theme Party Favor Boxes" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next, I hit up our local dollar store and found glow bracelets, bug stickers, tons of marshmallows, awesome LED flashlights and fun prizes to include in games, activities and the favor boxes. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmjmeqWcujFrBC-hZ2MjL-1CExHExnSo6sJhodNTp38Em3UmCm3_HXs1dUCwpXLnnbOZiccCyqYmwm5aanYtSgzgEdLfDpDqWQeDvIOjh_zIF1D4WE7yJpMVsnPZaHCK6WzsD2m0yiUA/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmjmeqWcujFrBC-hZ2MjL-1CExHExnSo6sJhodNTp38Em3UmCm3_HXs1dUCwpXLnnbOZiccCyqYmwm5aanYtSgzgEdLfDpDqWQeDvIOjh_zIF1D4WE7yJpMVsnPZaHCK6WzsD2m0yiUA/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" height="422" title="Camping Theme Party Favor Boxes" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Prizes were stored in an old Easter basket for easy portability for the outdoor games. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkVTynGk5FScUM5VLB-LMw_KTF8ZesdpHsp-15bGgLB6Ti-PhEy2xqSFKYC9-uYVII5GTB1e7QnWN6f8Sf2oefoOiDTi9de3f2gyJHikBTRO4aquf01E_z-MT_LGAEAEyoHOvPDI2W-o/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkVTynGk5FScUM5VLB-LMw_KTF8ZesdpHsp-15bGgLB6Ti-PhEy2xqSFKYC9-uYVII5GTB1e7QnWN6f8Sf2oefoOiDTi9de3f2gyJHikBTRO4aquf01E_z-MT_LGAEAEyoHOvPDI2W-o/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also, weeks in advance, I ordered fun flannel shirts from <a href="http://www.carters.com/">Carters</a>. These couldn't be cuter and were perfect for the camping theme. Other campers added vests, hats, scarves, boots, etc., and, of course, each kiddo got his/her own bandana in the favor boxes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YixrgmWnPIoRG3STAmHsYB12v51Gdd-tWLlSNoE394gpID35czb07OQD09RcBErNOF7-kcat_A1FaMj3AtSfBo2M5Enffg_FPa0pRsOmfsSxGyblczSZK_WLDmEZ5prTY4VsSVqZqCc/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YixrgmWnPIoRG3STAmHsYB12v51Gdd-tWLlSNoE394gpID35czb07OQD09RcBErNOF7-kcat_A1FaMj3AtSfBo2M5Enffg_FPa0pRsOmfsSxGyblczSZK_WLDmEZ5prTY4VsSVqZqCc/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We collected tons of gourds from our garden, purchased some <a href="http://www.crayola.com/">Crayola</a> washable paint and planned a gourd-painting event as one of the party activities. SO fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGkkf1w9dw-PwoBsgV2HqMPbRD_OpEnjF8gdZSxdPGtb8u5zcIo9YOnukEDoB-SOagWHSFkXYy6CSUM6330t7A2d8H37QMiIRNCB81Zeh2rLVJo52DBl4X7Fz0nMlyT3b1TsxyeV9YxY/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGkkf1w9dw-PwoBsgV2HqMPbRD_OpEnjF8gdZSxdPGtb8u5zcIo9YOnukEDoB-SOagWHSFkXYy6CSUM6330t7A2d8H37QMiIRNCB81Zeh2rLVJo52DBl4X7Fz0nMlyT3b1TsxyeV9YxY/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
I threw paintbrushes, water cups, paper towels, smocks, extra bandanas, craft paper and googley eyes into a bag to easily tote out to the outdoor painting table.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASfi6Y92SUzrEHouPgKn1ipc9NlgbgfUBRw7nth8K3r4ouN-hOLavfpfKKrP-9R8d33zOzKt0ZqdQzortZn_BLSYuNg26gWvXbVetng5bY_aZHGAWYfLH6kTz2vvtv6VTKQ2OCFZJKFA/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASfi6Y92SUzrEHouPgKn1ipc9NlgbgfUBRw7nth8K3r4ouN-hOLavfpfKKrP-9R8d33zOzKt0ZqdQzortZn_BLSYuNg26gWvXbVetng5bY_aZHGAWYfLH6kTz2vvtv6VTKQ2OCFZJKFA/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
We found these amazing signs and posted them all over our property to create a wonderful camping vibe.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTs-x1x1S_i6Pq6XPfPBSGxkokAOj-thEaowrVTr1c1CM9vTVdJhezWdbD86kWcMMbwNRQ-2hD9DmgaUhZB99z1599-vlQVFYQ1D8H8IkJLeCcs8boAE60Ap8XY1cCto4Syh-IZoD_hw/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTs-x1x1S_i6Pq6XPfPBSGxkokAOj-thEaowrVTr1c1CM9vTVdJhezWdbD86kWcMMbwNRQ-2hD9DmgaUhZB99z1599-vlQVFYQ1D8H8IkJLeCcs8boAE60Ap8XY1cCto4Syh-IZoD_hw/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
They added so much to the groove.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghALQBJczOVp-t19WtQJAAzFLcRWkMViDm0uTRReSenYSSdz6sIRzFkcyn3z1oX0Ebeo2_aLwStzgR6JkDMzX4J03SM2BNgWnLhLa1Y2aVNTQ0ZNlxA9ruKidm8KE64A_9-NNBuWHHoNc/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghALQBJczOVp-t19WtQJAAzFLcRWkMViDm0uTRReSenYSSdz6sIRzFkcyn3z1oX0Ebeo2_aLwStzgR6JkDMzX4J03SM2BNgWnLhLa1Y2aVNTQ0ZNlxA9ruKidm8KE64A_9-NNBuWHHoNc/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our favorite was the welcoming sign, which we posted along with a camping lantern to usher guests toward our campground setting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnV9Cyfqhe0gq6R9hk38eLSgRxrezt2YuCsmUPt7hkMXeaS-BPIMF3gvHfz0asygaSJa52GxgWHuuHd3yBR7Ytqgcni0ifCzPU_tCFsrLo6YPzBSEcpqeMhnpi1ljfPtk5eIcHmyIVbs/s1600/DSC_0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnV9Cyfqhe0gq6R9hk38eLSgRxrezt2YuCsmUPt7hkMXeaS-BPIMF3gvHfz0asygaSJa52GxgWHuuHd3yBR7Ytqgcni0ifCzPU_tCFsrLo6YPzBSEcpqeMhnpi1ljfPtk5eIcHmyIVbs/s1600/DSC_0013.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
Next, we planned a Scavenger Hunt for the kids to collect objects in the yard. Each guest was given his/her favor box immediately upon arrival so they could gear up and get ready for the events. Inside, we'd placed the Scavenger Hunt rules and items. They could use their boxes to store their found items.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We hid extra gourds all over the property to be found and collected during the Hunt. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmXO3M6wHotmRJFgEarjB2Umjpw_Nx09ui5Q_0ODVm9hluKcS6da44YBk7R1tXQH8SlbAKq4x4YdLde8Z9KzzeKgC_z02_M7btS0euzssZ6-VgAM5JwOAjson4wy8qjU0HGv7gNBlDTc/s1600/DSC_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmXO3M6wHotmRJFgEarjB2Umjpw_Nx09ui5Q_0ODVm9hluKcS6da44YBk7R1tXQH8SlbAKq4x4YdLde8Z9KzzeKgC_z02_M7btS0euzssZ6-VgAM5JwOAjson4wy8qjU0HGv7gNBlDTc/s1600/DSC_0014.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The first camper to complete the Scavenger Hunt chose a prize from the basket. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also had prizes for the most creatively painted gourd and the "Coolest Camper Award"-given to the camper who exhibited the most overall enthusiasm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirq_3-LNShSPm08hCEzfRwAxO0-xJBF634wYaThifpIMWqv6pWxOLQGsbF_N-DCZ_IzYIPnvxMue-BWtKiXd8joi6qQqdLEAjlP_uLzOiEX5g8jo4uXNa0yv9XZcCYM6VYRYwARQAyTuI/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirq_3-LNShSPm08hCEzfRwAxO0-xJBF634wYaThifpIMWqv6pWxOLQGsbF_N-DCZ_IzYIPnvxMue-BWtKiXd8joi6qQqdLEAjlP_uLzOiEX5g8jo4uXNa0yv9XZcCYM6VYRYwARQAyTuI/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
Inside, we prepared a "Kid Camper" table, for the birthday girl and her pals, a General Camper table, and an "Eagle Scout" table, which was reserved for the honored grandparents and adults. The kid table had the camper-themed plastic table cloth, and the Eagle Scout and General Camper tables were done up with traditional linens.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbvdZT_7J2MHcOePSfM5iVO_G7i1N2qmGLahpr8g-gGmurRPM6XpRmssxJ-ntKEHAr-K1uzsg6M0Ewxal3eVQr0uQ_bV2E_P1Ns56QjsJZywJXyLrRFZflp7IaL2rUDtDdxFCBwToyXI/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbvdZT_7J2MHcOePSfM5iVO_G7i1N2qmGLahpr8g-gGmurRPM6XpRmssxJ-ntKEHAr-K1uzsg6M0Ewxal3eVQr0uQ_bV2E_P1Ns56QjsJZywJXyLrRFZflp7IaL2rUDtDdxFCBwToyXI/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" height="422" title="Camping Theme Party" width="640" /></a></div>
We added flameless candles and our own nature books to create centerpieces for each table in hopes that guests would flip through them and learn something new.<br />
<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/AVvXsEg96cV5RnJigGAGQgOAyD-xy0K_cAvOL7_P5IxjqIZUehyi6dHCh2yD51kpABpbqUm7JnoKLE-NTLQoAST9xTa1H5-ZXJkL5ecR27DmY1NBZE_DMFvdk4yY5N1cjI6NT4CNarb9qb8iZFM/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96cV5RnJigGAGQgOAyD-xy0K_cAvOL7_P5IxjqIZUehyi6dHCh2yD51kpABpbqUm7JnoKLE-NTLQoAST9xTa1H5-ZXJkL5ecR27DmY1NBZE_DMFvdk4yY5N1cjI6NT4CNarb9qb8iZFM/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wish I'd gotten a better photo, but we also added extra bandanas to create more striking centerpieces.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then, I collected nature-themed objects from around our home to create areas of intrigue for the party. Here's a little set-up I put together for the guest bathroom. I added another flameless candle in here for evening ambiance.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBBZPg2oDEC4XIu13DbyIUzRNTbk_1Pzk9TC56u3MC6Lgvn1-1w_epG7sgEwvAPoi9we-Uqq5e-EJGkwHc_430gebGY2ftKqvjvoEH-LxPfa8QQMCe28rzNJaSeqxoECOtZM5Nohuq3o/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBBZPg2oDEC4XIu13DbyIUzRNTbk_1Pzk9TC56u3MC6Lgvn1-1w_epG7sgEwvAPoi9we-Uqq5e-EJGkwHc_430gebGY2ftKqvjvoEH-LxPfa8QQMCe28rzNJaSeqxoECOtZM5Nohuq3o/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" height="423" width="640" /></a></div>
As a family project, we dug out and prepared a new fire pit for the party. Stay tuned for the upcoming how-to.<br />
<br />
Of course, we pitched our biggest tent for the party, and the children had a blast running in and out of their designated site.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6loNe5SLZLlNRkAx3IIctlPBS-QLUuOJIVPZOji2CQXvfiK5oyqTIfN3iK5zsRUbJNR6CgmArPeN_DzA8wb1wUg7fdvq31-bUwbRPTZ2SK_lvMcELOWJ1FvCEYkT5kAM5DUKsaQxmsFU/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6loNe5SLZLlNRkAx3IIctlPBS-QLUuOJIVPZOji2CQXvfiK5oyqTIfN3iK5zsRUbJNR6CgmArPeN_DzA8wb1wUg7fdvq31-bUwbRPTZ2SK_lvMcELOWJ1FvCEYkT5kAM5DUKsaQxmsFU/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
We had a fire going as our flannel-shirted guests arrived and, naturally, it was a hot spot for gathering both kids and adults throughout the event.<br />
<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/AVvXsEguurJqblD87lDJchlb_dRFyJ9MFv6HznQBThmpCSLqzUcinW-u9WTjbSPODGmsV0jmaFHLS35vCssTu0eAcsVmVwyfkXPzBuP0gPmFOtD17oHdwMjAwsnxjss_MRQ5HawWl7iheygRkeA/s1600/IMG_7028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguurJqblD87lDJchlb_dRFyJ9MFv6HznQBThmpCSLqzUcinW-u9WTjbSPODGmsV0jmaFHLS35vCssTu0eAcsVmVwyfkXPzBuP0gPmFOtD17oHdwMjAwsnxjss_MRQ5HawWl7iheygRkeA/s1600/IMG_7028.JPG" height="640" title="clementine and celery pumpkin appetizers" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun appetizer- clementines with organic celery stems, made to look like pumpkins!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When it was time for dinner, we all headed in to stuff it. After tons of food, our amazing <a href="http://www.sweetdutchess.com/">Sweet Dutchess</a> campfire cake (with edible flames!!!) came out for the big HAPPY BIRTHDAY ritual.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3Ridn2JUFq_75YXBwe9UDErT6VdO5CMpE_YjBE6Or3aX49_2NOIR87LwF38jPLt10TyU9vAW0snDgL3mg5ikiotoo8YbG5GDmM_AlscZeipxJZcnSWNZbov5kYh8q4Ky7aEZ13Rqcpc/s1600/DSC_0222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Campfire cake" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3Ridn2JUFq_75YXBwe9UDErT6VdO5CMpE_YjBE6Or3aX49_2NOIR87LwF38jPLt10TyU9vAW0snDgL3mg5ikiotoo8YbG5GDmM_AlscZeipxJZcnSWNZbov5kYh8q4Ky7aEZ13Rqcpc/s1600/DSC_0222.JPG" height="422" title="Sweet Dutchess" width="640" /></a></div>
As the evening rolled in and the darkness fell, the kiddos had a blast sporting their glow bracelets and flashlights.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrLz-8Hh0SrG5_dCupQoUZmjw20e94WAi1oxiAT9GFmCWSveRGLC1rNM3cAfPiTs6fEGEWaUPYi5l8kFVhEdnCCpMFaZ4GHkBVAUYgIKkN5xizLvO8tDLnavnQOgmaN4XdYVa4HncI3dU/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrLz-8Hh0SrG5_dCupQoUZmjw20e94WAi1oxiAT9GFmCWSveRGLC1rNM3cAfPiTs6fEGEWaUPYi5l8kFVhEdnCCpMFaZ4GHkBVAUYgIKkN5xizLvO8tDLnavnQOgmaN4XdYVa4HncI3dU/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" height="422" title="glow bracelets for camping party" width="640" /></a></div>
Of course, we gathered 'round the campfire, roasted marshmallows, gabbed and giggled while sticky-handed kids ran back and forth between the fire pit and their tent. So fun!<br />
<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/AVvXsEj89mleaQHzDrHOhoWNrRuKiz-lqM26CMsDpOGZMCQemRzg6FPOOWiYse7LEXvjXG8AffiCWXUZhpxs_SxxB94QuCaUX8rrSHLmS29bxs-iuLmcIoaMAAYyHdb_YJrdX4i5WiW4ae7sXX0/s1600/DSC_0310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89mleaQHzDrHOhoWNrRuKiz-lqM26CMsDpOGZMCQemRzg6FPOOWiYse7LEXvjXG8AffiCWXUZhpxs_SxxB94QuCaUX8rrSHLmS29bxs-iuLmcIoaMAAYyHdb_YJrdX4i5WiW4ae7sXX0/s1600/DSC_0310.jpg" height="640" title="camping party Smore Station" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the birthday girl's gifts, that awesome <a href="http://www.unclemilton.com/">Uncle Milton</a> Lantern, came in handy at the Smore Station!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You just can't beat a campfire, right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTT8D2vf-fxDo4W622Cp2i8Yj3NpoHQpnIHIrjs01mguJI1EtyTT8C4b-0tQmAz4rZGsFrsaOMUcQ4kQT55vaqOREL-jkfWe-FECknIhTzM-Djd2PIZhYS-PHgJoZuJy3zGRdLfL9Z44/s1600/DSC_0301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTT8D2vf-fxDo4W622Cp2i8Yj3NpoHQpnIHIrjs01mguJI1EtyTT8C4b-0tQmAz4rZGsFrsaOMUcQ4kQT55vaqOREL-jkfWe-FECknIhTzM-Djd2PIZhYS-PHgJoZuJy3zGRdLfL9Z44/s1600/DSC_0301.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The BIG prezzie of the night was this <a href="http://www.telescope.com/FunScope-76mm-Tabletop-Reflector-Telescope/p/102015.uts">Orion FunScope Tabletop Reflector Telescope</a>. Checking out that gorgeous moon with this scope was the icing on the cake! A perfect finale!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRa17fb0vUgG8XJXIqyrsJFIo2GqrQbmuwR8YrHkfMOydlQUbm20qF4m9Modg83qT6n6oGEwr0BdR0ndVWUHtA1D2pyRoPqU-gqGyfU7cCQo6zZc4-_hdR0dM-K1Btgl7i8zjfKOaPQjs/s1600/DSC_0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRa17fb0vUgG8XJXIqyrsJFIo2GqrQbmuwR8YrHkfMOydlQUbm20qF4m9Modg83qT6n6oGEwr0BdR0ndVWUHtA1D2pyRoPqU-gqGyfU7cCQo6zZc4-_hdR0dM-K1Btgl7i8zjfKOaPQjs/s1600/DSC_0015.jpg" height="640" title="Orion FunScope" width="422" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This turned out to be our favorite party yet, and it was a great way to welcome the cooler weather and celebrate all things AUTUMN!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We grown-ups even found time to sneak out to enjoy that campfire long after the kiddos were conked for the night. BONUS!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So what's the next theme party? Ooooooh whee, do we have a fun idea brewing for the next celebration. Stay tuned…</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>What are some other ideas for fun birthday theme parties for kids? Feel free to share your creativity here!</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy camping, friends!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-62967224337836494372014-11-04T10:16:00.002-05:002014-11-24T00:58:17.465-05:00Hen-of-the-Woods (Maitake) Mushrooms: Eat THIS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He did it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/05/a-family-of-mycophiles.html">mushroom-hunting fella o' mine</a> scored big this weekend.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's true that our crew gets reeeeeeeally into scouring our local hot spot for <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/06/morel-madness.html">morels</a> in the spring, but the hands down winner of most delicious 'shroom goes to this fall find— the hen-of-the-woods. </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/AVvXsEgsbxgOi1fLYlaDmLaMCWmxVOXqJmvzDOuI1Ejx-B-p2xvwHBrpbbrm6teg_r5sKAdQHrnvfnc7hp8MNf7NKF7rKY2diWhHMIpgAkfKB4ks64YoTlTariwCw2qhF7CDcN0YmKZTG4sw6s0/s1600/DSC_0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="maitake mushroom" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbxgOi1fLYlaDmLaMCWmxVOXqJmvzDOuI1Ejx-B-p2xvwHBrpbbrm6teg_r5sKAdQHrnvfnc7hp8MNf7NKF7rKY2diWhHMIpgAkfKB4ks64YoTlTariwCw2qhF7CDcN0YmKZTG4sw6s0/s1600/DSC_0035.jpg" height="640" title="hen-of-the-woods mushroom" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous and delicious hen-of-the-woods on a log</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And NOW is the time to find 'em!<br />
<br />
Hen-of-the-woods, called "maitake" (which translates to "dancing mushrooms" in Japan because those who find them tend to dance with joy!) has been <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grifola_frondosa">used in traditional eastern medicine</a> to enhance the immune system for thousands of years. Check out <a href="http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/complementaryandalternativemedicine/dietandnutrition/maitake-mushrooms">this info</a> from the American Cancer Society about the benefits of consuming this 'shroom!<br />
<br />
Uber healthy AND scrumptious?<br />
Disco!<br />
<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/AVvXsEjH0rTeAuSmlVni7cXANS-sJWxS71bAHexDMbj9wfAGM56fuG-t8ziap4_zwB98uvxtcwIWmtq3pSFeewXMzm6kl_oMT1SmVgYm4YFFwjiCMshKZJvGh9pRwDr8PNdwtw5T4-Xuummy9eo/s1600/DSC_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="maitake mushroom" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0rTeAuSmlVni7cXANS-sJWxS71bAHexDMbj9wfAGM56fuG-t8ziap4_zwB98uvxtcwIWmtq3pSFeewXMzm6kl_oMT1SmVgYm4YFFwjiCMshKZJvGh9pRwDr8PNdwtw5T4-Xuummy9eo/s1600/DSC_0084.JPG" height="422" title="Hen-of-the-woods mushroom" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hen-of-the-woods scores are usually BIG!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Scan living hardwoods <a href="http://www.mushroomexpert.com/grifola_frondosa.html">(especially oak and occasionally conifers</a>) and decaying wood for large, grayish brown and white clusters at the base.<br />
<br />
Always positively identify your 'shrooms before consuming, but once you've confirmed…DO cook and chow down on these completely delicious delicacies!<br />
<br />
I'm not even the biggest mushroom fan, but MAN, I'll tell ya…sauté these in a bit of butter and garlic and prepare for some gourmet goodness.<br />
<br />
Toss 'em on top of your eggs. Breakfast has never tasted so good.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGx5SnJmuezMaVPqmMy6wUEnS38wh4hJv8kwj4Gc4429C_XInB2dQ7dqgEyNUrO8-_vJx8oybYHJD0WshfardYvw-iZy75BFkAnza5MVAlJ0llEdFkUIM4smolg9q3ZsutXx-V0PcgS3Y/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="maitake mushroom" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGx5SnJmuezMaVPqmMy6wUEnS38wh4hJv8kwj4Gc4429C_XInB2dQ7dqgEyNUrO8-_vJx8oybYHJD0WshfardYvw-iZy75BFkAnza5MVAlJ0llEdFkUIM4smolg9q3ZsutXx-V0PcgS3Y/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" height="504" title="hen-of-the-woods mushroom" width="640" /></a></div>
Give a scan while you're out enjoying the glorious splendor of fall, and see if you can't bring home something WAY better than bacon to add some oomph to your dining table.<br />
<br />
You won't believe how delicious these are.<br />
Happy hunting!<br />
<br />
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<b style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>***NEVER eat ANY raw mushroom in the wild and make absolutely sure you have positively identified any mushroom you intend to consume.</i></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></b>
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-25974055041078769552014-10-22T11:22:00.000-04:002014-11-24T07:49:55.847-05:005 Unconventional Tips for Soon-to-Be MamasBaby on the way?<br />
<br />
Some of my favorite ladies are about to swan dive into motherhood, and I've been thinking about the bombardment of warnings, wisdom and wackadoo that came at us from every angle during my pregnancies.<br />
<br />
Since our daughters brightened our world, people have asked for my best advice on becoming a new mother.<br />
<br />
After great consideration, my list is unconventional, short and simple.<br />
<br />
1. <b>Celebrate your body…and your boobs.</b><br />
<br />
Take a photo every week. Love your changing body and embrace every moment of the ride. You're totally beautiful while pregnant, without a doubt.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Invest in a great bra, celebrate your boobs and let the girls ride high! It's THEIR time now. Trust me on this.<br />
<br />
2. <b>Prepare for meddlers.</b><br />
<br />
It seems that EVERYone has two-cents on pregnancy, birthing and parenthood. There's no way around it. Unless you plan to hide away in an underground fallout shelter for the rest of your life, learn to handle meddling with class.<br />
<br />
Polite nods. Gentle smiles. Thanks but no thanks. Devise a plan of action to deflect unwanted advances, but try to stay cool, calm and collected.<br />
<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/AVvXsEjGe_cEqZxOHYvtThSpCLQ5bBvlhuYwgjk4dFHheCjoadkAcTVbTkilIUubNas27WeHGYo1vaQTmFr10rcYYwFEtUXp-vsiB9GnVcjA1shBp8RYgTOin15dbfYm3WqozrqXayOXQ7gk7xY/s1600/advice0485_949243005_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGe_cEqZxOHYvtThSpCLQ5bBvlhuYwgjk4dFHheCjoadkAcTVbTkilIUubNas27WeHGYo1vaQTmFr10rcYYwFEtUXp-vsiB9GnVcjA1shBp8RYgTOin15dbfYm3WqozrqXayOXQ7gk7xY/s1600/advice0485_949243005_n.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mamatoga.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/advice0485_949243005_n.jpg">Image Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Babies trigger excitement in so many hearts, and it's hard for people to contain their own nostalgia.<br />
Remember that others have <i><b>been there done that,</b></i> so although some advice might seem outdated or not right for you, there could be something valuable to gain from those who have been down that road before.<br />
<br />
Maybe.<br />
<br />
3.<b> Invest in a bad ass camera.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Do it today. Cell phone shots just ain't gonna cut it anymore.<br />
<br />
We didn't get <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/08/through-different-lens-introducing-my.html">our bad boy camera</a> until after our second child was born. Mistake.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1CwYONy5iwc7OQ5JouyI0rV9QccY7Gfcik1Th5qRY5hdnxzeoLzN0OwkRzry2G_x5RPBdL3c2cOYxPB4dFWjq6zI6MqRnjbXMjOdTpgXeuqzwPCIWCgVl0vs7NZ2oAw9n1M205uqtUA/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1CwYONy5iwc7OQ5JouyI0rV9QccY7Gfcik1Th5qRY5hdnxzeoLzN0OwkRzry2G_x5RPBdL3c2cOYxPB4dFWjq6zI6MqRnjbXMjOdTpgXeuqzwPCIWCgVl0vs7NZ2oAw9n1M205uqtUA/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" height="404" width="640" /></a></div>
Every B.C. photo (before camera) pains us. The difference is unreal. Get some muscle to make your memories more stunning. Worth every penny.<br />
<br />
4. <b>Take time for YOU before the baby arrives.</b><br />
<br />
Be in the moment and appreciate your strength.<br />
<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/AVvXsEj_hd0blr7uq7BhWhhukMlN9EPIsSpOGBY3OVgmKPZsYv-GRbPO07_5vn7UyqHzyZ0KtM-bqrqniONKMLSI9bQj2OaOtdcp6gTaAoeDTqeKWpp3od02A9jsL7h_DgcyCaF-pN01NcYqMhk/s1600/Hot-Stone-Massage-Therapy-During-Pregnancy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hd0blr7uq7BhWhhukMlN9EPIsSpOGBY3OVgmKPZsYv-GRbPO07_5vn7UyqHzyZ0KtM-bqrqniONKMLSI9bQj2OaOtdcp6gTaAoeDTqeKWpp3od02A9jsL7h_DgcyCaF-pN01NcYqMhk/s1600/Hot-Stone-Massage-Therapy-During-Pregnancy.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sportsxfitness.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Hot-Stone-Massage-Therapy-During-Pregnancy.jpg">Image Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Need a vacation? Go.<br />
Feeling achy? Get a prenatal massage and have lunch with your besties.<br />
<br />
You (and everyone else) will spend the rest of your lives spoiling your wee one, so take the time to spoil <i><b>yourself</b></i> now. You deserve it.<br />
<br />
5. <b>Trust yourself.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Know that we all make mistakes, not everything always goes as planned and perfect pregnancies, deliveries or parents are as rare as two-headed unicorns.<br />
<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/AVvXsEhXgC1djsfUTDXRl7HS1IlhTB8dldEAqNidxeSAnNMJgynLTO9YCUkrd9-aKdTmu8uaSkGJFrCBqM7dw6pRR4jVwNgZzpMzLfncSmY9E501nHjA6drh9Xo4onD9M6jSZ-Nao3oBIWRVoW4/s1600/imakepeople.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXgC1djsfUTDXRl7HS1IlhTB8dldEAqNidxeSAnNMJgynLTO9YCUkrd9-aKdTmu8uaSkGJFrCBqM7dw6pRR4jVwNgZzpMzLfncSmY9E501nHjA6drh9Xo4onD9M6jSZ-Nao3oBIWRVoW4/s1600/imakepeople.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i335.photobucket.com/albums/m479/operator23/imakepeople.jpg">Image Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Trust your instinct and be strong in the confidence that you've got this.<br />
<br />
Be willing to always be working on yourself—to grow with the changes in your life so you can be an incredible role-model for your child.<br />
<br />
You can do this.<br />
Know that you'll be great and prove it every day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
CONGRATULATIONS, sistas!<br />
Welcome to the best ride of your lives…<br />
<br />
<i><b>What's the best advice you have for the soon-to-be-mamas out there?</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-16973985168004238522014-10-08T11:05:00.001-04:002014-11-24T00:59:18.699-05:00How to Eliminate Odor from Lunch Boxes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It only took a few days for our kiddo's new lunch box to get a dousing of spilled milk. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If there's any smell that gives me the heaves, old milk—</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
:::retch!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
HAD to be remedied, STAT. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The ol' soap and rinse couldn't cut through that lingering stench, so I got to researching and compiled a three-step attack combo that finally did the job.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step 1</b>- After a thorough soap and water cleaning, I dumped baking soda inside the box and shook it around. To activate the baking soda, I sprayed a 50:50 white vinegar and water mixture on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step 2</b>- I towel dried the inside of the box, filled it with crumpled newspaper to absorb residual odor and left it overnight. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqqcNV1pq2q4X-SL3vWfcpnfAFuRx5NG5_DRJX3c8dtaSaBKxFeuT9LtemnmC9RbscM_DiqBw8SmeEGPSuVxWPhyD0o1mrcqMYRqaJ0GSBal2NxkJn3oqo5JhikyJMUDd5lssVNpa0Pc/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqqcNV1pq2q4X-SL3vWfcpnfAFuRx5NG5_DRJX3c8dtaSaBKxFeuT9LtemnmC9RbscM_DiqBw8SmeEGPSuVxWPhyD0o1mrcqMYRqaJ0GSBal2NxkJn3oqo5JhikyJMUDd5lssVNpa0Pc/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" height="422" title="How to Eliminate Odor from Lunch Boxes" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After this, the smell was almost gone, but a faint, gag-worthy trace remained.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step 3</b>- I soaked three cotton balls in vanilla extract and left them inside the lunch box for several hours.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Aaaaaand DONE-ZO!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No lingering stench!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really thought I might have to toss this brand new lunch box if I couldn't solve this problem. Gagging while packing sandwiches is no good. Can't imagine how kids in the caf would react to chowing down next to a sour milk bag. Buh.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tackle stink with these three simple steps and keep those appetites kickin'! Don't forget to <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/09/lunchbox-love-letters.html">leave a love letter</a> along with the pack.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><b>Any other tips for eliminating odors? Please add them to the comment list below.</b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stink be gone!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips. </i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-38898234370094888292014-10-01T10:09:00.000-04:002014-11-24T00:59:35.316-05:00Preparing Houseplants for Fall & Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Winter is coming, but with warm autumn days upon us, it's the perfect time to ready houseplants for the big chill. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like everything else in our homes, houseplants get dusty over time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pretty tedious to go over every leaf with a wet paper towel, and dusters just don't do the trick, so NOW is the time to give your greenery a good washing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Choose a sunny afternoon and haul your pots outside for a seasonal cleaning. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBG9nHRslgBXYq8MVhTIdn0WtcbgQQgaamFjuDAHBz6iST8esZ7_qNTM_2hi_sAW0d68MLDPD8Jop7VYP4teZgK-Jqycawf0d-XPH0BI3udX15vZ8uQ9UEDJToMAU5i2kE5bk_MyULyQ/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBG9nHRslgBXYq8MVhTIdn0WtcbgQQgaamFjuDAHBz6iST8esZ7_qNTM_2hi_sAW0d68MLDPD8Jop7VYP4teZgK-Jqycawf0d-XPH0BI3udX15vZ8uQ9UEDJToMAU5i2kE5bk_MyULyQ/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" height="422" title="watering wand attachment to clean off house plants" width="640" /></a></div>
Remove any dead leaves or branches from the soil and, where appropriate, trim up your plants to promote healthy growth.<br />
<br />
Once you've tidied up the scene, give your greenies a shower! Build up of dust and dirt on leaves can inhibit growth, so use a watering wand attachment on your hose to rinse off any accumulation.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
If your plants tolerate direct light, let them bask in the sunlight to dry, but be sure to bring them back inside before any risk of frost.<br />
<br />
Once your beauties are back indoors, find the perfect placements for fall and winter months. Some plants require more sunlight as seasons change, so consider the needs of each and rearrange to accommodate.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rDw2TbsPnB4TfJxKcFfCGr3VxW7zgEhVZyJyjNbA7TJVSiqCIKQ08piiEUJviA6O_zfhDUCVcgtM0Wjcr9NLYN2eWHPiVFJDe0EZzEeBcUQOj3YSdl9tvkJLb5TQm4ipMOnoCds5GjM/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rDw2TbsPnB4TfJxKcFfCGr3VxW7zgEhVZyJyjNbA7TJVSiqCIKQ08piiEUJviA6O_zfhDUCVcgtM0Wjcr9NLYN2eWHPiVFJDe0EZzEeBcUQOj3YSdl9tvkJLb5TQm4ipMOnoCds5GjM/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" height="640" title="watering wand attachment to clean off house plants" width="422" /></a></div>
Avoid overwatering during the colder months and hold off on fertilization until the spring, when your plants are ready for new growth. Set 'em up in sunny spots away from any harsh drafts and enjoy your gorgeous greenery while we weather the wilds of winter.<br />
<br />
For more tips on fall and winter houseplant care, check out <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/landscaping/expert-tips-on-caring-for-houseplants/index.html">this</a> HGTV article and <a href="http://www.garden.org/celebratingtheseasons/?page=winter-care">this</a> resource from the National Gardening Association.<br />
<br />
Go green ALL year long, friends!<br />
XOXO<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/"> From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-69658437243973043582014-09-24T10:50:00.001-04:002014-11-24T01:00:28.367-05:00Lunchbox Love Letters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've always been a note-writer…</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
passing them in football-shaped fold-ups in school,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
hiding them under pillows and in drawers to surprise loved ones, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
even <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/06/learning-to-read-love-letters.html">teaching my daughters to read by leaving love letters</a> next to their beds. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that our eldest has started school, we've been packing extra punch in her lunchbox—</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
a love letter a day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijW-JQLMvlQj5igwBcmGTAdeM5MvoojT-GAXlC9MGkS6Pgx8sueCUO7rqBzo9Q5axxm2TBH0KPbtnDdapppFXWa001qmdF3J_HdAd80Ash9Aqm_N1iSukQaglykgIiuV5tDUFnphJDiZ4/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijW-JQLMvlQj5igwBcmGTAdeM5MvoojT-GAXlC9MGkS6Pgx8sueCUO7rqBzo9Q5axxm2TBH0KPbtnDdapppFXWa001qmdF3J_HdAd80Ash9Aqm_N1iSukQaglykgIiuV5tDUFnphJDiZ4/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" height="422" title="letters in the lunchbox" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We keep a pen and paper right next to our lunch packing station and take turns leaving messages for our kiddo to read during her afternoon chow sesh. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I remember the childhood thrill of finding lunchbox messages from my own mama—like a great big hug from far away, and the love in that ink and paper goes a long way in brightening any day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our darlin' loves her notes, and she's sure to remind us to leave her a message every day. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Writing the letters takes mere seconds, but the memories of the love within last a lifetime. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Keep your paper and pen nearby, and remind your peanuts that you're thinking of them, even when they're away. It'll make them smile. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
A little bit of love goes a long way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Make your mark on someone's heart.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
XOXO<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/"> From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips. </i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-40115504116784909312014-09-16T15:14:00.000-04:002014-11-24T01:01:36.437-05:00How NOT to Prepare Ghost PeppersYou know me.<br />
I love-a-dee-spice.<br />
<br />
I admit my passion for peppa has been a little out of hand lately.<br />
<br />
There was that <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/09/chile-cstacy-at-bowers-chile-pepper.html">Chile Pepper Fest</a> and all.<br />
And I came home like this.<br />
So…<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxhP25CzE8VTJaH3ae1entsM3LPGqkboX-TJunCUdcR10URTeWazBs4SGye3yuFmvJjPYljE4VVA-YGhAlquKclFE0RObY6m1HXofKdifZmNL6NRp-SrbLbOHKa-KFNqyLrZpvmLSth4/s1600/IMG_6494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxhP25CzE8VTJaH3ae1entsM3LPGqkboX-TJunCUdcR10URTeWazBs4SGye3yuFmvJjPYljE4VVA-YGhAlquKclFE0RObY6m1HXofKdifZmNL6NRp-SrbLbOHKa-KFNqyLrZpvmLSth4/s1600/IMG_6494.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fella bought me three of the formerly-named hottest peppers in the world. Check out the yellow and red ghost (see <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhut_Jolokia">Bhut Jolokia</a>) peppers on top of this pile. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Three.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Couldn't wait to get into those, but I had to admit intimidation. My ghost experiences had been via hot sauces alone. I'd never handled the actual bad boys.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Never prepared them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'd also never had to evacuate my family from our home while cooking.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So here's a little heads up to those of you who have the pepper itch and are about to get down with the goods.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
DO NOT EVEN FREAKIN' THINK ABOUT COOKING GHOST PEPPERS ON YOUR INDOOR STOVE!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While whipping up the most amazing enchilada dinner in history, I went for the kick and sautéed ONE ghost pepper (I used gloves to cut it) in olive oil. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stooooooopid. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Heat aerosolizes capsaicin…so within minutes, I'd pepper-gassed my entire family. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Literally. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We burst outside, eyes teary and red, backs of our throats a'zingin'. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my kids puked from coughing.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was seriously like a military drill. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
:::shakes head in naive shame</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't ever ever <b>ever</b> cook Bhut Jolokia peppers in your home, 'kay? </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Imagine if I'd sautéed all three?!?</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Again, once the fog cleared, the cooked peppers were fantastically delicious, so if you're into the spicy scene, I'd suggest cooking WAY outdoors or use my preferred method of peppering and dehydrate to <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/08/for-those-who-like-it-hot-make-your-own.html"><i>Make Your Own Pepper Flake Mix</i></a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</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/AVvXsEhcXH1KjK82lMvu6y9Hmpdv2r9ByTogHzqB9z2hVCLZ2B5PTsNUQ2s8KLxRv98Z4VCq4IFMTU8nFYsJ85RTFP251X9lapcxm0_ChcU5xFCQosxWf6f0rlPGC0g1p4wUM4-yYSKnTddOi-Y/s1600/IMG_6571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bhut Jolokia peppers" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcXH1KjK82lMvu6y9Hmpdv2r9ByTogHzqB9z2hVCLZ2B5PTsNUQ2s8KLxRv98Z4VCq4IFMTU8nFYsJ85RTFP251X9lapcxm0_ChcU5xFCQosxWf6f0rlPGC0g1p4wUM4-yYSKnTddOi-Y/s1600/IMG_6571.jpg" height="285" title="Ghost Peppers with enchiladas" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cooked ghost pepper is inside the central glass dish. Yum!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'll be researching and experimenting with my remaining ghost peppers to find the most practical and effective methods for food incorporation. I'll be sure to keep you posted!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the meantime, watch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tRq8ExAHzk">this</a> dude eat a whole Bhut Jolokia pepper…and don't do THAT either. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Respect the hot stuff, be cautious and send me recipes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips. </i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-46314204816267083542014-09-09T10:59:00.001-04:002014-11-24T01:01:59.873-05:00Stink Bugs Are Coming, Yet We'd Like to Propose a Toast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On a crisp September evening, fella and I poured a smooth Syrah and nestled in for the night. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Regular readers will understand why we've previously covered our wine glasses with coasters on TOP between sips. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQgq-4sUFb6890cLy7p9MyWshygu893GD7IWMJ6YYwG8S86rdSjBA1xqQQ8KCv0cXcwwQJFYzlPsYkIrkD0b8Ox0mBSLKA3B1OFgxhNpnwhncq6DWZdO_JwZpngxjWI1fQXPVvtuK6kE/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQgq-4sUFb6890cLy7p9MyWshygu893GD7IWMJ6YYwG8S86rdSjBA1xqQQ8KCv0cXcwwQJFYzlPsYkIrkD0b8Ox0mBSLKA3B1OFgxhNpnwhncq6DWZdO_JwZpngxjWI1fQXPVvtuK6kE/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>If you're new, get a load of our horror show stink bug story in these previous posts-<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/06/why-weve-been-feeding-saving-stink-bugs.html">Why We've Been FEEDING & SAVING Stink Bugs</a>, </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/04/stink-bug-hideout.html">Stink Bug Hideout</a>, <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/03/stink-bug-war-phase-1-tactic.html">Stink Bug WAR- Phase 1 Tactic</a> </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/02/stink-bugs-in-dead-of-winter.html">Stink Bugs in the Dead of Winter</a>, </span><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/10/stink-bugs-theyre-baaaaaack.html" style="font-size: x-small;">Stink Bugs: They're Baaaaaack!</a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">, </span><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/05/ten-scenes-of-horror-living-with-stink.html" style="font-size: x-small;">Ten Scenes of Horror: Living with Stink Bugs</a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">, </span><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/04/our-house-all-inclusive-stink-bug.html" style="font-size: x-small;">Our House- The All-Inclusive Stink Bug Resort</a>.</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But lately, our glasses remain blissfully uncovered and our home lacks its familiar buzz.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No swearing, no swatting, no wiping up stankin' SCAT!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, ever since I posted <i style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/07/goodbye-stink-bugs-were-fortified.html" style="text-align: center;">GOODBYE Stink Bugs! We're Fortified!</a> </i><span style="text-align: center;">we've been closer to fine, my friends.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">It might just be working!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">With our fortress resided, we've been resealing entryways and windows to prepare for the upcoming onslaught that occurs at the end of every September. As the air cools down, those suckers are gonna try to make their way back INto our homes. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">This year, we'll be ready…more ready than ever before. </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">In just a few short weeks, we'll know the true strength of our valiant efforts.</span></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/AVvXsEiXXkALg4oE1t1qUmTCrt_gnvreO_58IeumqWfFxd1J2AzL-aE8aY7kBzyA1hJ2wlkENxFXjV43U2jrVJIHF1jscp1PYft0pAV1Lqdk0NHLWhUkUrx15gQhhQ_0OgFiFEV5PeV2cqAxD3U/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXkALg4oE1t1qUmTCrt_gnvreO_58IeumqWfFxd1J2AzL-aE8aY7kBzyA1hJ2wlkENxFXjV43U2jrVJIHF1jscp1PYft0pAV1Lqdk0NHLWhUkUrx15gQhhQ_0OgFiFEV5PeV2cqAxD3U/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" height="432" title="Stink Bugs trying to enter home" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not THIS time, spawn!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">Until then, we'll be toasting, glasses uncovered, to a stink bug-free year. We can do this. </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">Sayonara, suckas! :::clink</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Are <u>you</u> getting fortified to keep spawn outta your scene? Make your moves now!</i></b></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: #e9edec; clear: both; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips. </i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-75238418949102483372014-09-02T15:05:00.000-04:002014-11-24T01:02:22.383-05:00Foldable Potting Station AWESOMENESS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My favorite prezzie this year?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fella got me this (he ordered it <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Merry-Garden-MPG-PB01-Foldable-Potting/dp/B000W76SGG/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1408462926&sr=8-5&keywords=outdoor+potting+table">here</a>) <a href="http://www.merrygardenholdings.com/about">Merry Garden</a> Foldable Wood Potting Bench for my birthday and, suffice it to say, I DIG! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitALsvrigBDquwZVKRCeZ0rFtc3DrBD_FjSUnQPzNcEkFAPp5aLrA1FOG-h9WCSLWTlnIS0IYkrdBba3w0wYqvCuYwysBULNqgFBDnhfGkY8MUw39GqvJDY0DydRQtsLCFUAwHfFbk1ok/s1600/DSC_0043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Merry Garden potting station" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitALsvrigBDquwZVKRCeZ0rFtc3DrBD_FjSUnQPzNcEkFAPp5aLrA1FOG-h9WCSLWTlnIS0IYkrdBba3w0wYqvCuYwysBULNqgFBDnhfGkY8MUw39GqvJDY0DydRQtsLCFUAwHfFbk1ok/s1600/DSC_0043.JPG" height="422" title="Foldable Potting Station" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Its awesomeness is just beyond.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Easy to move, we popped it open on our deck and I had at it—loading 'er up with all my previously scattered potting goodies.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The space, design and organizational features have made potting/repotting so much more fun and convenient this season. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqiKgPyw7hoZW9ME_d5hUQ1l7_zRXuu_2pRAbvUkkQFMoTpFR7iF8DfoOTzoKXufu5NnGvkBUzwnFbnq_2-6_-Rj5SDf9rmyWFDAZ8b9Uj3BpnxhI8WaNavaP6fU6KoeLJGOUYQDR6mo/s1600/DSC_0040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Merry Garden potting station" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqiKgPyw7hoZW9ME_d5hUQ1l7_zRXuu_2pRAbvUkkQFMoTpFR7iF8DfoOTzoKXufu5NnGvkBUzwnFbnq_2-6_-Rj5SDf9rmyWFDAZ8b9Uj3BpnxhI8WaNavaP6fU6KoeLJGOUYQDR6mo/s1600/DSC_0040.jpg" height="640" title="Foldable Potting Station" width="422" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Even though the leaves are already a'changin', we just returned from greenhouse adventuring and scored some new pots and indoor plants.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Guess I'll be benching all the way into autumn!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Best part?<br />
Once the cold starts setting in, we'll simply fold our station up and store it for the winter.<br />
<br />
SUCH a cool product. Couldn't be more psyched to add this bench to the mix.<br />
Anything to getchya growin'!<br />
<br />
A perfect gift for the green thumb-ers out there.<br />
Christmas is coming…<br />
<br />
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*This is <b>not</b> a sponsored post. Just writing about a product we love!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span><br />
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-1377135359296353751" itemprop="description articleBody" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; width: 680px; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-32380251553019585962014-08-19T11:21:00.004-04:002014-11-24T01:02:47.412-05:00Bio Bidet GIVEAWAY and Coupon Code!In previous post, <i><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/12/toilet-talk.html">Toilet Talk</a></i>, I went <b>there </b>and told you about the remote-controlled toilet seat that revolutionized the bathroom experience for our family and friends.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*We purchased our seat at standard cost, receive no commission from Bio Bidet sales and were not gifted any products for posts. This is simply a company and product we would absolutely recommend.</span><br />
<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/AVvXsEh2xN3Sq2y2GSL_vm5FPdAsCOu_1OPi0WyflEKdmHE5sJjgAMoY597HNUFfH0riRdGEsdvDPSVbdqHxt5kpbDEpiy1yYmI5kOc2y1KhdlXMTl6hLaUutm1BUX3GkcFFV0oNo2UC-YyAvzA/s1600/BB-1000-bathroom2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xN3Sq2y2GSL_vm5FPdAsCOu_1OPi0WyflEKdmHE5sJjgAMoY597HNUFfH0riRdGEsdvDPSVbdqHxt5kpbDEpiy1yYmI5kOc2y1KhdlXMTl6hLaUutm1BUX3GkcFFV0oNo2UC-YyAvzA/s1600/BB-1000-bathroom2.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our family members rock the <a href="http://www.biobidet.com/BB1000_SupremeBidet.htm">BB-1000 Supreme Advanced</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For real though. Friends come over and sneak upstairs to use THE toilet.<br />
Because it's the raddest.<br />
<br />
When sitting pretty…<br />
our <a href="http://www.biobidet.com/BB1000_SupremeBidet.htm">BB-1000</a> seat, with its built-in warmer, is never cold…even in the dead of winter,<br />
we get the cleanest nethers in town<br />
and all biz is wrapped up with a nice, warm air-dry-hurrah!<br />
<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/AVvXsEgKJQfmFqr5xzc8ljPMMYsdFg-ocfb-aA4rKKj8t8uwuFMkGhnK6w-VodiB_kHHfgmgpRnHT_jUX-USoTtyZlWwdmRoarBUlttIL-LhwHkRfDlMmRamMjke6DPExjrC2jMRdVQ6TQ4f4V4/s1600/BB-1000-main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJQfmFqr5xzc8ljPMMYsdFg-ocfb-aA4rKKj8t8uwuFMkGhnK6w-VodiB_kHHfgmgpRnHT_jUX-USoTtyZlWwdmRoarBUlttIL-LhwHkRfDlMmRamMjke6DPExjrC2jMRdVQ6TQ4f4V4/s1600/BB-1000-main.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BB-1000</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It's bonkers, but really kind of wonderful—a party in the can!<br />
On vacation, Bio Bidet peeps miss their thrones at home.<br />
<br />
Wanna check it out?<br />
<br />
The Bio Bidet team is generously offering up a simple starter bidet attachment system for one lucky Hearth reader!<br />
<br />
Get into the squeaky clean scene with the ($49.00 value that fits ALL toilets) <a href="http://www.biobidet.com/BB70-Natural-Water-Bidet.htm">Simplet BBC-70</a>.<br />
<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/AVvXsEjYZ3w7ReocTGZRx1Nt-aCsSG3Mm-ttoqXr6-Kuga48RFaRHtb77x4Jdz8vnOxol2O7iSoP097sOwx-hSusyKlzm_aPRl_oIw5XBFI6rsePv9aoxurJvPWmsHMKRGw9k5BHL8qN34_yzM8/s1600/2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZ3w7ReocTGZRx1Nt-aCsSG3Mm-ttoqXr6-Kuga48RFaRHtb77x4Jdz8vnOxol2O7iSoP097sOwx-hSusyKlzm_aPRl_oIw5XBFI6rsePv9aoxurJvPWmsHMKRGw9k5BHL8qN34_yzM8/s1600/2-2.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WIN this Simplet BBC-70!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With easy, do-it-yourself installation and no electricity or batteries required, use adjustable water pressure to get into the Bio Bidet experience. You're gonna giggle…and love this thing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Ready to make a purchase already? Wanna skip all the simple stuff and move right on up to the heated, remote-controlled seat scene?<br />
<br />
All readers can use promo code <b><i>frommyhearthtoyours</i></b> at checkout for a 20% discount on any <a href="http://www.biobidet.com/">Bio Bidet</a> purchase, from now until the end of 2014!<br />
<br />
Here's to having a happy go-time!<br />
<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/AVvXsEh4vSb8KfJODNYqztNiEg06rBQn0FgVCjLY6LfKGsRjBZ9EzSD3Be8e0yR8YjZX7B-Cw3ND9mOa_SDKcKQ89cept14_ijjC1BPdZHHbLCdLpbazdHGYd-_HPYJHOcOZhgdNRUiraoF1UK0/s1600/6-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4vSb8KfJODNYqztNiEg06rBQn0FgVCjLY6LfKGsRjBZ9EzSD3Be8e0yR8YjZX7B-Cw3ND9mOa_SDKcKQ89cept14_ijjC1BPdZHHbLCdLpbazdHGYd-_HPYJHOcOZhgdNRUiraoF1UK0/s1600/6-2.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BBC-70 Simplet Basic Natural Water Bidet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Feel funny leaving your name on a post to win a bidet?</i><br />
<i>Flush those fears and fret not.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>When entering, your email address is kept hidden (only necessary for me to contact winner). You don't have to post your real name in the comment list, so here's a chance to get creative. Maybe Johnny Onaspot or Lou Ready will win this prize. </i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 17px;"><b>So, how do you nab the prize?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b><u>Leave a comment on <i>this</i> blog post</u></b><span style="color: #909090;"><u>.</u> </span></span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">A randomizer program will select one lucky winner from the comment list <b>on this page </b>to take home the goods! </span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"> <b>(1 entry)</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>Wanna increase your odds?</b></span></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b><u>"Like" <i>From My Hearth to Yours</i> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours">on Facebook</a></u></b><span style="color: #909090;"> </span><span style="color: #909090; font-size: 13px;">for one additional entry. Already on board? <u><b>Comment separately below</b> </u>and, I do declare, you'll be swimming in that game pool twice! Always trying to increase the odds for regular readers here at the Hearth! <b>(1 entry)</b></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Or scroll down on the right side bar to </span><b><u>join up with</u></b></span><b><u><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span><i>From My Hearth to Yours</i><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span></u></b><span style="line-height: 17px;"><u><b>on Google Friend Connect</b> </u><span style="color: #909090;">for yet another entry. <b><u>Comment to notify me on this page</u></b>, stay in the Hearth's loop, and tack on one additional shot at the prize! <b>(1 entry)</b></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"></span></span><br /></div>
<div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Lastly, feel free to </span><b><u>share the link to this giveaway on FB or Twitter</u></b><span style="color: #909090;"> for one more entry. <b><u>Comment on this post </u></b>to let me know you've shared. <b>(1 entry)</b></span></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">***GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED. THANKS FOR PLAYING!****</span></b></div>
<div>
<b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;">Good luck!</b></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a></b></span></div>
<div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><i>*Giveaway is open to ALL <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a> readers until Wed, Aug 27th 2014 at 9p.m. EST. Winner will be announced on Thurs, Aug 28th. </i></span><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;">If prize is unclaimed after 72 hours, the next number in the randomizer list will be declared the winner.</i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"> Free shipping in contiguous USA only.</span></span></b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-33281787169032305982014-08-13T10:26:00.000-04:002014-11-25T11:11:10.466-05:0010 Art Essentials to Spark Your Child's Creativity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I always loved art, and I CHALK that up to having wonderful experiences with inspiring art teachers in early childhood. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hoping to inspire my own children's creativity, I've collected these essentials to encourage artistic exploration and expression.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>1. Crayons</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Big ones. Small ones. Gem-colored. Rainbow-colored. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Every kid needs 'em— the go-to for beginner art. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhKWouGSbZh7v7FEbfcl9ql3vPBBrRxwXGpWYx41kGDxB3bRNnQn7h66sFlZ9h6QVGVbHRlGUrU3fyPEYvzVRevXxW9z9fb9MzC2YCURfjAloWx8M9XegqwDECloMvGgXccVxGdfGUC8/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="crayons" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhKWouGSbZh7v7FEbfcl9ql3vPBBrRxwXGpWYx41kGDxB3bRNnQn7h66sFlZ9h6QVGVbHRlGUrU3fyPEYvzVRevXxW9z9fb9MzC2YCURfjAloWx8M9XegqwDECloMvGgXccVxGdfGUC8/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" height="422" title="art for kids" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>2. Colored pencils</b><br />
I keep these in my purse, in the car and in our travel bags.<br />
Colored pencils won't melt like crayons can, so they're ideal for portable art ops!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqhyphenhyphenFXOK-wtw3ZegjhuV91AvAks6zFyJ-DIt0DFNLr2zuWX9Nnh5sCWuRP2O9ldzAoZw6a9qcrIakShQUtZfmz8XmSnRe24H0vfHOC2jD0Sea9RlZ4dXTvWJ60XvDKKobVgbI0WQEXHc/s1600/DSC_0075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="colored pencils" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqhyphenhyphenFXOK-wtw3ZegjhuV91AvAks6zFyJ-DIt0DFNLr2zuWX9Nnh5sCWuRP2O9ldzAoZw6a9qcrIakShQUtZfmz8XmSnRe24H0vfHOC2jD0Sea9RlZ4dXTvWJ60XvDKKobVgbI0WQEXHc/s1600/DSC_0075.jpg" height="640" title="art for kids" width="422" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>3. Markers</b><br />
For bolder colors, cleaner strokes and card making, markers make kids' art POP.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1fqmg6NfP0XNQ5X1pdhBsRImicb88ON2gJSGkkDK_NmMNB70bZMvmFkj1nZY0IgcVJzzV_7HUg91AAdEkxANgNgcJhQKJ5REnhel_zGzx7_-gxoia7KqOn66l7F6gg-KQdNrieReTWA/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="kid art" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy1fqmg6NfP0XNQ5X1pdhBsRImicb88ON2gJSGkkDK_NmMNB70bZMvmFkj1nZY0IgcVJzzV_7HUg91AAdEkxANgNgcJhQKJ5REnhel_zGzx7_-gxoia7KqOn66l7F6gg-KQdNrieReTWA/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" height="640" title="markers" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
Because they're not always as 'washable' as companies claim, we set these aside for specific use, but marker designs stand out and are wonderful for creative expression.<br />
<br />
We also love window markers for gorgeous, stained-glass-like designs.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>4. Watercolor paints, glitter glue and Mod Podge</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1yJlH6LLjpRMrmAbjW9QnCizLphe7QR2to_aDmu43cfKe9ZNwPLTnYkGRVa-gx8I4CRnfl6kjyko7tfLfq1k_K7NP8zdvmIy7T_qH8aRsXOjqwM9VS5r9RCovtvc03va7PFQpq-_QJk/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1yJlH6LLjpRMrmAbjW9QnCizLphe7QR2to_aDmu43cfKe9ZNwPLTnYkGRVa-gx8I4CRnfl6kjyko7tfLfq1k_K7NP8zdvmIy7T_qH8aRsXOjqwM9VS5r9RCovtvc03va7PFQpq-_QJk/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
Watercolors are a FAVORITE around here. Kids can experiment with layering, brush stroke variation, blending, color-mixing, splattering and color-gradation. Get the appropriate paper and have your kiddos make gorgeous designs to frame throughout the house!<br />
<br />
Mix media by adding glitter glue on top of watercolor designs. Extra jazz!<br />
<br />
Mod Podge is great for adding sheen to art and for making magnets! We cut out photos, glue them to magnet paper and seal with a coat of Mod Podge. Fun for making gifts and magnets for your own fridge!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>5. Stamps and ink pads</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stamping is so much fun! Get some rhythm goin' while stamping designs, patterns, borders, and scenes. These make excellent add-ons to homemade cards, drawings and paintings. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHGFSKGEHH4S-IvDz_lob8qYdgFg7hU7LcbUjACr6Sd0HiQflgqDPIpzOnLCO1kCdct6WNN5VkaJIvLl1awgKC8dc7fNNxNmXVnu1yPBG5W_1wg-sdtLHRsqoMzXx2kDqhhx9kBSwjTA/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="art for kids" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHGFSKGEHH4S-IvDz_lob8qYdgFg7hU7LcbUjACr6Sd0HiQflgqDPIpzOnLCO1kCdct6WNN5VkaJIvLl1awgKC8dc7fNNxNmXVnu1yPBG5W_1wg-sdtLHRsqoMzXx2kDqhhx9kBSwjTA/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" height="422" title="stamps and ink pads" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't underestimate your own hands as tools. Use ink pads and fingerprints to create original designs as well! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4gmre1-JoaDti110eC07NGg4kNaDa7Dj86jcOluC1ekiTnszdhHwAOgwhLyDjqZTYbKVjD1s5rYCHFPH9RmrWcjNRdCzkB_MpEuapP_3FG2rMAznMIGokU0aBEwpt6mKoXplJL8NHAI/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="art for kids" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4gmre1-JoaDti110eC07NGg4kNaDa7Dj86jcOluC1ekiTnszdhHwAOgwhLyDjqZTYbKVjD1s5rYCHFPH9RmrWcjNRdCzkB_MpEuapP_3FG2rMAznMIGokU0aBEwpt6mKoXplJL8NHAI/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" height="422" title="stamps and ink pads" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>6. Art kits</b><br />
When I was younger, I was gifted art kits that are still kickin' it today! Loaded with colored pencils, markers, oil pastels, paints, brushes, pencils, sharpeners, erasers and even a palatte, these kits have it ALL.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9LuNE_HLNe3mwC4sYjs8UW9xt3YfWx4QlqhRr14GY7L8Fm6e5kuO7yQPpNyPpLXs0-zQNSNd9EGx0BMlJS_ODFmwzrbjsHcnAc_1irvlfny658o0Rr9BsvHVAFDxh_V95Wv9k_SUETbU/s1600/DSC_0020.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/AVvXsEi9LuNE_HLNe3mwC4sYjs8UW9xt3YfWx4QlqhRr14GY7L8Fm6e5kuO7yQPpNyPpLXs0-zQNSNd9EGx0BMlJS_ODFmwzrbjsHcnAc_1irvlfny658o0Rr9BsvHVAFDxh_V95Wv9k_SUETbU/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a><br />
When these kits come out, art <i>explosions </i>occur and they're AWESOME every time.<br />
<br />
<b>7. A variety of paper</b><br />
Construction paper is a must for all wee ones, but as art exploration expands, so should your paper arsenal.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaZlyfOI0-7PR0NtE63Me17zbgPSamM0AvF20K2Xr5zWpGRwofjTlIvQB7qd4DyzGtSiwaf_uPaKeMDb5cpin8CzYucvQruxlg2wBPzBdLb7yTDRtidVNZOrXaPHChykXKHKnCLHWtS4/s1600/DSC_0077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="art for kids" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaZlyfOI0-7PR0NtE63Me17zbgPSamM0AvF20K2Xr5zWpGRwofjTlIvQB7qd4DyzGtSiwaf_uPaKeMDb5cpin8CzYucvQruxlg2wBPzBdLb7yTDRtidVNZOrXaPHChykXKHKnCLHWtS4/s1600/DSC_0077.jpg" height="640" title="art paper" width="422" /></a></div>
We keep sketch pads, tracing, scratch art, oak tag, border, construction and watercolor paper around to be prepared for wherever the creative road leads.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguHG7_O44X-9O8zO1Hr_JcKdTY2aV11q-g2NUloPiOBNJwvW4NtMOU6AloeTgb6qEz5fPWkqhoAUGOg6M5IddrGbX388GPmA3Nj8d4uZKzTxesLzKk15wTZ7uokfbMjzL3EE0Qz8KlIxY/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguHG7_O44X-9O8zO1Hr_JcKdTY2aV11q-g2NUloPiOBNJwvW4NtMOU6AloeTgb6qEz5fPWkqhoAUGOg6M5IddrGbX388GPmA3Nj8d4uZKzTxesLzKk15wTZ7uokfbMjzL3EE0Qz8KlIxY/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>8. Box kits</b><br />
Box kits make wonderful gifts and are perfect for sparking creative ideas.<br />
<br />
I love that everything you need is included in one box, so there's no scrambling to grab materials. Bring these on vacation, over to grandma's, outside on the deck, or out to the park for portable experimentation and exploration.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGOtEvwCYcrntAIxGioYmkcJUXQLfZzO52k8f0mS259wVwokQbYtUCS5Z0vGudsX1h2ybr2smqDBn2ci1aQcZfsqie0TKzL4SVL-hQs6wqYTOgnxF3jdFXPe9dc3fbmnl5hsgU9Mwiwdc/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="art for kids" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGOtEvwCYcrntAIxGioYmkcJUXQLfZzO52k8f0mS259wVwokQbYtUCS5Z0vGudsX1h2ybr2smqDBn2ci1aQcZfsqie0TKzL4SVL-hQs6wqYTOgnxF3jdFXPe9dc3fbmnl5hsgU9Mwiwdc/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" height="422" title="art kits" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>9. Chalk</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We actually keep a box of colored chalk in our car for art sessions on-the-go. So much fun for making impromptu hop-scotch, maps, body tracings, etc. when you want to get creative outside. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We draw on our deck, create faces on our trees, adorn the pillars on our house, write messages to visitors. The rain washes away all traces and the rewards are plentiful! Get tons of different kinds to experiment—large, small, skinny and glitter chalk!<br />
<br />
<b>10. Clay</b><br />
Whether with Play-Doh or actual clay, molding and manipulation are incredible activities for shaping the mind.<br />
<br />
Find interesting tools to press into your material to create any and <b>every</b>thing you can dream up!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="text-align: left;">"Art is the most intense mode of individualism that the world has known."- Oscar Wilde</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="text-align: left;"><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I never want to lose the passion to create, and nothing makes me more proud than to watch my children express themselves through art. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Let's give them all the tools they need. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>What are your favorite art essentials? Send us new ideas if we're missing anything!</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. Congratulations to Miz Vikick, #79 in the comment list and the winner of the Sport-Brella recliner chair. Put your feet up and enjoy, friend!<b><i> </i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>If yore still craving some Sport-Brella sweetness for the season, don't forget to hit up our <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/08/sport-brella-recliner-chair-giveaway.html">coupon code</a> and ROCK 30% off any product!</i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-70253400566201387322014-08-05T09:59:00.000-04:002014-11-24T01:04:31.350-05:00Sport-Brella Recliner Chair GIVEAWAY and Coupon Code!You knew it was coming…<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://sport-brella.com/">Sport-Brella</a> team is hooking up another giveaway that's sure to make your outdoors-ing the RADDEST!<br />
<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/AVvXsEgduGmbLAaLsUzZd8TLTKni_DZxksjsQiOWi2x89aiWsxMR4zm1UByXbnJp5_5N5oqor4cchRt4hIFVAyke0h4TgHqUJB8wFXTdCEryVSEvZVDCRFd9c6F3MA5RYJhaTh8rXO5ImKM1JW0/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduGmbLAaLsUzZd8TLTKni_DZxksjsQiOWi2x89aiWsxMR4zm1UByXbnJp5_5N5oqor4cchRt4hIFVAyke0h4TgHqUJB8wFXTdCEryVSEvZVDCRFd9c6F3MA5RYJhaTh8rXO5ImKM1JW0/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" height="640" title="Sport-Brella Recliner Chair" width="528" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So comfy, kickin' it with your feet up. Chair back is adjustable AND there's a BOTTLE OPENER attached to the lower pocket. Heyo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After discovering our admiration for their innovative sun/weather shelter design, a cool company rep sent us a <a href="http://sport-brella.com/chairs/sport-brella-recliner-chair">Sport-Brella Recliner Chair</a> (a $59.99 value!) to review.<br />
<br />
Aaaaaand it's the bomb…the ultimate chair for completely kickin' it.<br />
<br />
Now you've got up to FOUR chances to win one for yourself.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5k9sBDPjhoERhXfN-psqOieGyM-w6yeANGFS3Sa8DJ25jVLplYqNTTHPUciueXS-Xjksq_Ls6rDHECeWQ5Vul2foRiwoJmzOEy0JXRA2tw0uMup-eV1CmyHU1a1mG4XBuQtIGWShRLhM/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5k9sBDPjhoERhXfN-psqOieGyM-w6yeANGFS3Sa8DJ25jVLplYqNTTHPUciueXS-Xjksq_Ls6rDHECeWQ5Vul2foRiwoJmzOEy0JXRA2tw0uMup-eV1CmyHU1a1mG4XBuQtIGWShRLhM/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" height="422" title="Sport-Brella Recliner Chair" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Protect your phone or wallet from the elements in this side pocket. Easily add headphones with the portal design, and keep your drink secure in the deep cup holder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The portable Sport-Brella Recliner Chair features an adjustable, flip-up shade umbrella, a built-in cooler, bottle opener, cup holder and handheld device pocket with cord portal.<br />
<br />
I'm never camping, beaching, or sidelining without toting this bad boy along again!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOzyLSSisp3Y_Xb7GwGwaigfK8gawJ47r8Nd_rce8tmu3qp7m3BKi-XTdIo5lOdFQk9ba_iZeXyv8bA4FS2DWCKk0efP2nWO7vTWI3WzqfG7DIv5q4y8587bAE_LHn6187feRZDHFCrI/s1600/Sport-Brella_chair_features._V381961353_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOzyLSSisp3Y_Xb7GwGwaigfK8gawJ47r8Nd_rce8tmu3qp7m3BKi-XTdIo5lOdFQk9ba_iZeXyv8bA4FS2DWCKk0efP2nWO7vTWI3WzqfG7DIv5q4y8587bAE_LHn6187feRZDHFCrI/s1600/Sport-Brella_chair_features._V381961353_.jpg" /></a></div>
So go GET it!<br />
Enter to win this chair that's designed for outdoor chillin'—pop your feet up, kick back and relax in style.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxUlWhdb9mJn7EAKKz4_LB8-Vb0j_C_IwFWjYNiMYkLCXTKSV5vUzQZHfqyMXgw_LXylkLSD3A3cvdD-E2_qhhJrOg4x5SUQs8nMZxJECxcT0yT8WeqQh-QpHvEuQkH2HPFGwkbbQ5yI/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxUlWhdb9mJn7EAKKz4_LB8-Vb0j_C_IwFWjYNiMYkLCXTKSV5vUzQZHfqyMXgw_LXylkLSD3A3cvdD-E2_qhhJrOg4x5SUQs8nMZxJECxcT0yT8WeqQh-QpHvEuQkH2HPFGwkbbQ5yI/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" height="640" title="Sport-Brella Recliner Chair" width="422" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Built-in cooler easily keeps two beverages nice and chilly!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
As if these giveaways aren't rad enough, hit up the <a href="http://sport-brella.com/">Sport-Brella</a> homesite and get to chillin' out, maxin' and relaxin' right away. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
From now until the end of the month, Hearth readers can enter coupon code <b>August30 </b>at checkout to nab 30% off anything on the site, <i>except</i> Versa-Brella. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Even if you didn't luck out on one of these giveaways, you can still SCORE some Sport-Brella sweetness!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 17px;"><b>So, how do you nab the prize?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b><u>Leave a comment on <i>this</i> blog post</u></b><span style="color: #909090;"><u>.</u> </span></span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">A randomizer program will select one lucky winner from the comment list <b>on this page </b>to take home the goods! </span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"> (1 entry)</span><br />
<span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>Wanna increase your odds?</b></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b><u>"Like" <i>From My Hearth to Yours</i> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours">on Facebook</a></u></b><span style="color: #909090;"> </span><span style="color: #909090; font-size: 13px;">for one additional entry. Already on board? <u><b>Comment separately below</b> </u>and, I do declare, you'll be swimming in that game pool twice! Always trying to increase the odds for regular readers here at the Hearth! (1 entry)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Or scroll down on the right side bar to </span><b><u>join up with</u></b></span><b><u><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span><i>From My Hearth to Yours</i><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span></u></b><span style="line-height: 17px;"><u><b>on Google Friend Connect</b> </u><span style="color: #909090;">for yet another entry. <b><u>Comment to notify me on this page</u></b>, stay in the Hearth's loop, and tack on one additional shot at the prize! (1 entry)</span></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #909090;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"></span></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Lastly, feel free to </span><b><u>share the link to this giveaway on FB or Twitter</u></b><span style="color: #909090;"> for one more entry. <b><u>Comment on this post </u></b>to let me know you've shared. (1 entry)</span></span></span><br />
<b style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px; text-align: center;"><i style="background-color: #e9edec; color: red;"> ***GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED. THANKS FOR PLAYING!***</i></b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px; text-align: center;">*****</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>Bottoms (and feet) up, party people!</b></span></div>
<div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 17px;">CONGRATS to <a href="http://beeronmyshirt.blogspot.com/">Beer On My Shirt</a>, #19 in the comment list and the winner of the Sport-Brella sun and weather shelter! We're sure that your family is going to love this! Way to SNAG it! Booyah!</span></div>
<div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><i>*Recliner giveaway is open to ALL <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a> readers until Tues, Aug 12th 2014 at 9p.m. EST. Winner will be announced on Wed, Aug 13th. </i></span><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;">If prize is unclaimed after 72 hours, the next number in the randomizer list will be declared the winner.</i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"> Free shipping in USA only.</span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #909090;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><b>**I received NO monetary incentive for writing this post and earn no commission from Sport-Brella sales. ALL opinions expressed here are my own.</b></span></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com108tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-15489670894686545462014-07-28T11:55:00.002-04:002014-11-24T01:05:02.768-05:00Sport-Brella GIVEAWAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><b>Outdoorsy peeps, get ready to SWOON over these next TWO giveaways...</b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Three years ago, to protect our family from overexposure to the sun's harmful rays, we purchased a <a href="http://sport-brella.com/sport-brella">Sport-Brella</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(see previous post <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/07/made-in-shade-with-sport-brella.html"><i>Made in the Shade</i></a>)</span> and have considered it an incredible family asset on our annual beach adventures. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<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/AVvXsEhPhkojexCKILQTTcxQGTQImhGADM44MoGpDr-BBnVCzIFIZzowdikC6ijTXzuA2NrKTuqTcO7lCz_Hd6Fh_LtccFxPVt0OK9EdF4vrYGshq9god3-e61_KH0yv8xi9pdIjPuaPmvZSfXU/s1600/Kaira+in+our+fort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhkojexCKILQTTcxQGTQImhGADM44MoGpDr-BBnVCzIFIZzowdikC6ijTXzuA2NrKTuqTcO7lCz_Hd6Fh_LtccFxPVt0OK9EdF4vrYGshq9god3-e61_KH0yv8xi9pdIjPuaPmvZSfXU/s1600/Kaira+in+our+fort.jpg" height="256" title="Sport-Brella beach umbrella" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First year with our Sport-Brella beach FORT! Fellow beach-goers are always inquiring about our awesome shelter.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After discovering our admiration for their innovative product design, a lovely <a href="http://sport-brella.com/">Sport-Brella</a> rep sent us their <a href="http://sport-brella.com/chairs/sport-brella-recliner-chair">Recliner Chair</a> to review.<br />
<br />
Now, they're generously offering up one Sport-Brella and one Recliner Chair <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(THAT giveaway will be up next week WITH an awesome coupon code!)</i></span> to YOU, readers!<br />
<br />
Just when I thought I couldn't be more in love with this company...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1M34Bd4hhmNevH9yGgiUuBabbiEK2CJgA5ct7PicZpQMcm4GG0P0M0-9OSx21Yg5IowCfjVjtaQJ3o_5_EAAiiBK96nAug4qnkTLSuuviwzIOyNQLKuzOXy-lS6KXNrnCHY0OambXuQ/s1600/SZSPORT-R.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1M34Bd4hhmNevH9yGgiUuBabbiEK2CJgA5ct7PicZpQMcm4GG0P0M0-9OSx21Yg5IowCfjVjtaQJ3o_5_EAAiiBK96nAug4qnkTLSuuviwzIOyNQLKuzOXy-lS6KXNrnCHY0OambXuQ/s1600/SZSPORT-R.png" height="640" width="568" /></a></div>
BOOYAH!<br />
<br />
This week, all Hearth readers have up to FOUR chances to win an 8-foot-wide Sport-Brella shelter (a $59.99 value!) for the coolest outdoor hang times. Your crew will cozy up, protected from the sun, wind and rain at any locale.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
At the beach, fundraisers, picnics, or sporting events— stay outta the blazing sun and comfortably hang with your homies in the sweetest Sport-Brella shade.<br />
<br />
Expect double-high-fives when your crew sees you setting up <b><i>this</i></b> fort.<br />
WIN IT!<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 17px;"><b>So, how do you nab the prize?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b><u>Leave a comment on <i>this</i> blog post</u></b><span style="color: #909090;"><u>.</u> </span></span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">A randomizer program will select one lucky winner from the comment list <b>on this page </b>to take home the goods! </span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"> (1 entry)</span><br />
<span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>Wanna increase your odds?</b></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b><u>"Like" <i>From My Hearth to Yours</i> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours">on Facebook</a></u></b><span style="color: #909090;"> </span><span style="color: #909090; font-size: 13px;">for one additional entry. Already on board? <u><b>Comment separately below</b> </u>and, I do declare, you'll be swimming in that game pool twice! Always trying to increase the odds for regular readers here at the Hearth! (1 entry)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Or scroll down on the right side bar to </span><b><u>join up with</u></b></span><b><u><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span><i>From My Hearth to Yours</i><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span></u></b><span style="line-height: 17px;"><u><b>on Google Friend Connect</b> </u><span style="color: #909090;">for yet another entry. <b><u>Comment to notify me on this page</u></b>, stay in the Hearth's loop, and tack on one additional shot at the prize! (1 entry)</span></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #909090;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"></span></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Lastly, feel free to </span><b><u>share the link to this giveaway on FB or Twitter</u></b><span style="color: #909090;"> for one more entry. <b><u>Comment on this post </u></b>to let me know you've shared. (1 entry)</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">*****</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>Good luck, everyone, and don't forget to stick around for the<a href="http://sport-brella.com/chairs/sport-brella-recliner-chair"> Recliner Chair</a> GIVEAWAY and Sport-Brella coupon code coming up next week!</b></span></div>
<div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a></b></span></div>
<div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><i>*Giveaway is open to ALL <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a> readers until Mon, Aug 4th 2014 at 9p.m. EST. Winner will be announced on Tues, Aug 5th. </i></span><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;">If prize is unclaimed after 72 hours, the next number in the randomizer list will be declared the winner.</i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"> Free shipping in USA only.</span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #909090;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><b>**I received NO monetary incentive for writing this post and earn no commission from Sport-Brella sales. ALL opinions expressed here are my own.</b></span></span></span><br />
<b style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><i style="background-color: #e9edec; color: red;">***GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED. THANKS FOR PLAYING!***</i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com110tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-49840499257025616512014-07-22T10:10:00.002-04:002014-11-24T01:05:27.537-05:00GOODBYE Stink Bugs! We're Fortified!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I <b><i>told</i></b> you the move to fortify our fortress from stink bugs was gonna be <b>BIG</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Big…and expensive.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After thorough research, years of experimentation<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (see <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/06/why-weve-been-feeding-saving-stink-bugs.html">Why We've Been FEEDING & SAVING Stink Bugs</a>,</span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/04/stink-bug-hideout.html">Stink Bug Hideout</a>, and <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/03/stink-bug-war-phase-1-tactic.html">Stink Bug WAR- Phase 1 Tactic</a>) </span>and suffering <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(read <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/02/stink-bugs-in-dead-of-winter.html">Stink Bugs in the Dead of Winter</a>,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/10/stink-bugs-theyre-baaaaaack.html">Stink Bugs: They're Baaaaaack!</a>, <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/05/ten-scenes-of-horror-living-with-stink.html">Ten Scenes of Horror: Living with Stink Bugs</a>, <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/04/our-house-all-inclusive-stink-bug.html">Our House- The All-Inclusive Stink Bug Resort</a>)</span>, we finally made the massive move to keep stinkers OUT.<br />
<br />
So how'd we do it?<br />
<br />
After tearing off the siding on our beloved home, we uncovered the stink bug's secret entryway, the portal, the highway to hell.<br />
<br />
Sunnuva…!<br />
<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/AVvXsEhETMLDtx91r-7JKqFqdbHwcR_86l2a5H5BaPHabUNlbCFmIjf0MoBqbb305K_FfV25Im2dBQp3DT5ikVw2Yi3rvvWlHG9cpE_ZMYuE5MajyDymKje0O2Jt9fWjUyHQJbbcCpR0-Ga1_1E/s1600/DSC_0122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETMLDtx91r-7JKqFqdbHwcR_86l2a5H5BaPHabUNlbCFmIjf0MoBqbb305K_FfV25Im2dBQp3DT5ikVw2Yi3rvvWlHG9cpE_ZMYuE5MajyDymKje0O2Jt9fWjUyHQJbbcCpR0-Ga1_1E/s1600/DSC_0122.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at that GAP! Easy on ramp on the highway to hell.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It turns out, there was siding UNDERNEATH our siding. Say whaaa?<br />
Quite a surprise when we discovered this bonkers error.<br />
<br />
Because the surface underneath the existing siding was, obviously, not flat (as it should have been) there were large grooves that created easy stink bug paths right into our home.<br />
<br />
No-freakin-wonder we've been inundated with spawn!<br />
ARG!<br />
<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/AVvXsEj-_i8N-Hznz1PHlDm0mgtHLW3SYyB7IG9k6TrV5JdE-YkYRxsBn7lH7IZsoyJUENp5lfKvmRSM7__psC7kkoZGZ4Zki61TP33W8Sl7LBHtCMi_cE_cPGu1Suoi05D9IEZsNXy8PF6nU0c/s1600/DSC_0123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-_i8N-Hznz1PHlDm0mgtHLW3SYyB7IG9k6TrV5JdE-YkYRxsBn7lH7IZsoyJUENp5lfKvmRSM7__psC7kkoZGZ4Zki61TP33W8Sl7LBHtCMi_cE_cPGu1Suoi05D9IEZsNXy8PF6nU0c/s1600/DSC_0123.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stink bugs (and tons of other creepsters) crawled up these grooves and entered through the gaps between panels.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A problem we had to remedy!<br />
After removing BOTH layers of the existing siding, we got the job done right.<br />
<br />
A bug screen was added to the bottom of each section before the new siding was installed.<br />
<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/AVvXsEg17XdqsLLIq8ZBFK4TEoCg5NGXMhst1YHr2hwc_ykoQ3l7Ki33_no9RlHI2u8kqLDHv36GtRkWJh26Kym9-yv5GuQcGHr2qBcDC9tZXowXYPDBZMmq4VDcYI9cQfLb6AT1ULxnHZOJYVs/s1600/DSC_0143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17XdqsLLIq8ZBFK4TEoCg5NGXMhst1YHr2hwc_ykoQ3l7Ki33_no9RlHI2u8kqLDHv36GtRkWJh26Kym9-yv5GuQcGHr2qBcDC9tZXowXYPDBZMmq4VDcYI9cQfLb6AT1ULxnHZOJYVs/s1600/DSC_0143.JPG" height="422" title="bug screen under siding" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bug screen before being folded up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The screen prevents bugs from creeping through the underside of the siding.<br />
<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/AVvXsEiOfjAdOaIwVQhHABlYvpJ5TRpG5B7m8wqGL3wNMy9cSAzXIhe0drgjIMvD2SWqwVUuIZyBq3OAlCoyykLzNEg3beTA3KdkD7vx59-SPY1oQaBqkJVleeZQA62mZDN_QwlXeU-pvVlDCdc/s1600/DSC_0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfjAdOaIwVQhHABlYvpJ5TRpG5B7m8wqGL3wNMy9cSAzXIhe0drgjIMvD2SWqwVUuIZyBq3OAlCoyykLzNEg3beTA3KdkD7vx59-SPY1oQaBqkJVleeZQA62mZDN_QwlXeU-pvVlDCdc/s1600/DSC_0144.JPG" height="422" title="bug screen under siding" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love you, bug screen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And then the new siding was installed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1f6GpC6yUELNJZraS_JE-nK6Uefb-WmR70DaKDCap6TEy3RoUnv8ILClhYY0Bcikqji2Du371kA5UPUJrHOQKOcFIpG25laCcerIQb0l4cUytYmC8KpDyRPVw7oA0us3pmtPGMICjQU/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1f6GpC6yUELNJZraS_JE-nK6Uefb-WmR70DaKDCap6TEy3RoUnv8ILClhYY0Bcikqji2Du371kA5UPUJrHOQKOcFIpG25laCcerIQb0l4cUytYmC8KpDyRPVw7oA0us3pmtPGMICjQU/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
Every crevice was sealed with caulk, and we will be vigilant in ensuring that every possible gap is sealed in the future.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyXHXHVZ1r4jU3aSVos-QCnrKrllw5wSdSMeaFT4yDw8AtyRui2bPhjVLA7ExQyP5TQH1o-EhpiSi_7dycAL9YqgjSlmjKBSrDUg1_wbTrWyWnA5b-RTsRGoK51Sxrcng0SJg8MuJRqw/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyXHXHVZ1r4jU3aSVos-QCnrKrllw5wSdSMeaFT4yDw8AtyRui2bPhjVLA7ExQyP5TQH1o-EhpiSi_7dycAL9YqgjSlmjKBSrDUg1_wbTrWyWnA5b-RTsRGoK51Sxrcng0SJg8MuJRqw/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
Flashing strips were added to the base of the home to further prevent any access to the fortress.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUmAohl4GbQyrA1kRUNeE2OYgYMxDQJF5rp7OP0XHAfQZFD_JeDmoh07ruDFjNxUq7uGjGiTAYwS-ysux5peX4HBdFahyOyVuWL1ZnweD5nGKPzwWr9uiFoFfuxb7cccuQMQ2Vt8coWg/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUmAohl4GbQyrA1kRUNeE2OYgYMxDQJF5rp7OP0XHAfQZFD_JeDmoh07ruDFjNxUq7uGjGiTAYwS-ysux5peX4HBdFahyOyVuWL1ZnweD5nGKPzwWr9uiFoFfuxb7cccuQMQ2Vt8coWg/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" height="438" title="Flashing underneath siding " width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So now we wait. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Give us one full year to report results.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Right now, any stinkers inside our home will be trying to make their way OUT to breed, but when "winter is coming" we know spawn will try to breech our walls for another season of hibernation. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This time…we'll be ready.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Get psyched for us, friends. I think we've GOT this now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have to believe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pray for us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-13771353592963537512014-07-08T11:13:00.003-04:002014-11-24T01:06:27.572-05:00Mexican Grass Addiction? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.learn2grow.com/gardeningguides/ornamentalgrasses/featuredplants/mexicanfeathergrass.aspx">Mexican Feather Grass</a> is definitely my favorite perennial purchase this season.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm obsessed with everything about it…</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
the way it dances in the breeze</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
the way it feels in my hands</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
the way it captivates me with its gorgeous airiness. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYJuWFNmHpn5i5M65PqOWR_tkmAnhL25PtkBOTaVxHdq8lMdI6I2eJ6b834H6Llx6vpmmeQh0uxvwSuXamtw_3akh0FLOfPGoZTroVF7fcCpLi7EcOIjVxb1Ik29t4O5jxA-jRQPvulI/s1600/DSC_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYJuWFNmHpn5i5M65PqOWR_tkmAnhL25PtkBOTaVxHdq8lMdI6I2eJ6b834H6Llx6vpmmeQh0uxvwSuXamtw_3akh0FLOfPGoZTroVF7fcCpLi7EcOIjVxb1Ik29t4O5jxA-jRQPvulI/s1600/DSC_0068.JPG" height="422" title="Mexcian Feather Grass" width="640" /></a></div>
I really just can't get enough.<br />
<br />
My Mexican Feather Grass admiration has gone so overboard, in fact, that instead of planting it in the ground, I transferred it into a planter so I can caress it while lounging on the deck.<br />
<br />
And I do.<br />
<br />
If it's in my sight line, I'm over there running my fingers through it…<br />
braiding it<br />
making ponytails with it<br />
curling it around my fingers.<br />
<br />
I might get more so I can wrap myself in it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
If you come over and find me crouched in the dirt with a makeshift grass shawl, don't be too alarmed.<br />
This stuff would make a great plant suit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixqVih6q3i8HM0PFF_Qo34qQ3g1oaCZluWZTpBr3a_WAQpOhhXad0GqiGE8jz0Dy1JnKwcAxTQ8NCHOl_IDGKuy4cltD-FzWYp9Ayw7zx1mc1FTTCrbMGB7XVnHdHAb5dtfbovg-iJ5M/s1600/DSC_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixqVih6q3i8HM0PFF_Qo34qQ3g1oaCZluWZTpBr3a_WAQpOhhXad0GqiGE8jz0Dy1JnKwcAxTQ8NCHOl_IDGKuy4cltD-FzWYp9Ayw7zx1mc1FTTCrbMGB7XVnHdHAb5dtfbovg-iJ5M/s1600/DSC_0071.JPG" height="422" title="Mexican Feather Grass" width="640" /></a></div>
Sensory therapy, anyone?<br />
Get some soothing Mexican Feather Grass and see what I mean.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Most tactilely stimulating plant ever!<br />
<br />
<i>Sidenote: Be prepared for really strange reactions when you, too, run around telling people that you're addicted to Mexican grass. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Here's to sunny days and gorgeous greenery!<br />
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-13218632789234653092014-06-30T09:26:00.000-04:002014-11-24T01:07:10.548-05:00The Hearth's 10 Most Popular PostsTo set sail into our most exciting week of Summer 2014, I'm bringin' back some reader favorites.<br />
<br />
If you missed any of these goodies, check out the top ten posts of all-time from the <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a> archive.<br />
<br />
#10 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/09/the-genie-in-lamp-and-meaning-of-life.html">The Genie in the Lamp and the Meaning of Life</a><br />
SO pleased this story made the cut. A profound surprise…<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
#9 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/04/our-house-all-inclusive-stink-bug.html">Our House- The All-Inclusive Stink Bug Resort</a><br />
Sorry this <i>did</i> make the cut. Guess that means many of you feel my pain. Death to spawn!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfeGLt0IN8MqZF2xqdAULOr2B69_CtjXIJjWMHgheIReSToXHrnu1dwy4prdcFKpL9EGDXNLzihmuXEH3VP9j8pmrSB_LLnguKvMc8XhbmtbMwNJNTIT2Wle_6onsd3ZG6OQ22K4mGZTMw/s1600/IMG_2993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfeGLt0IN8MqZF2xqdAULOr2B69_CtjXIJjWMHgheIReSToXHrnu1dwy4prdcFKpL9EGDXNLzihmuXEH3VP9j8pmrSB_LLnguKvMc8XhbmtbMwNJNTIT2Wle_6onsd3ZG6OQ22K4mGZTMw/s1600/IMG_2993.JPG" height="245" width="320" /></a></div>
#8 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/05/ride-safer-travel-vest.html">Ride Safer Travel Vest</a><br />
Oooooh, friends! If you were interested in this awesome invention, stick around! We've got another giveaway coming up soon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
#7 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/07/made-in-shade-with-sport-brella.html">Made in the Shade</a><br />
We're about to rock this umbrella/tent for the third summer. Even loaned 'er out to our buds for their beach extravaganza. Still kicking it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
#6 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/01/reachin-for-moon.html">Reachin' for the Moon!</a><br />
Our moons are an integral part of the bedtime experience for both our girlies. Wish I'd had one when I was a kiddo. Makes you dream big.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZqM_6aDk6t9iBkUnSC8oULRngtXCH0AuCKq03MApvgqbsVjR3to36JVYmwgjw28HQY6TsTNkbTjCsmAOpfQgBAPakV6CTqhS8jXWWYjLHCXx9pCQEixqT6qP04Dq16woM3XqwUHgi9c/s1600/DSC_0008_zpsdac48356-1_zpsefea66dd-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZqM_6aDk6t9iBkUnSC8oULRngtXCH0AuCKq03MApvgqbsVjR3to36JVYmwgjw28HQY6TsTNkbTjCsmAOpfQgBAPakV6CTqhS8jXWWYjLHCXx9pCQEixqT6qP04Dq16woM3XqwUHgi9c/s1600/DSC_0008_zpsdac48356-1_zpsefea66dd-2.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
#5 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/10/stink-bugs-theyre-baaaaaack.html">Stink Bugs: They're Baaaaaack!</a><br />
More spawn. Damn.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvaxruKr3LZswGDOD6-jYZpngBcLDieyVa5o6E6gdnEbDmAshHcUzpMr2AYXMK237SQl1qyrdHhBE7fUuQQzPAeP7sKTat1wytynpshv4z5y_ospc82kunce1888A670tZAJSCIU3AOw/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvaxruKr3LZswGDOD6-jYZpngBcLDieyVa5o6E6gdnEbDmAshHcUzpMr2AYXMK237SQl1qyrdHhBE7fUuQQzPAeP7sKTat1wytynpshv4z5y_ospc82kunce1888A670tZAJSCIU3AOw/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" height="194" width="320" /></a></div>
#4 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/07/choosing-favorites-my-top-5-book.html">Choosing Favorites: My Top 5 Book Collections for Kiddos</a><br />
I totally stand by these choices. For birthdays and baby showers, book collections are my gifts of choice. If you use 'em well, these books can really make magic happen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2WOtIFOcwTSPs-7AG4k8Y0Vag_RBIDFHsKOpQUHH1WrAWDCxjakZY6vupIhrTWfQyDDyPwmAw2OhQFa5pBg3zRJZKfv8ElRcYDkZKAgezPlghuJCUbdd9u_rY5ssv_wvTpJhhsI2umE/s1600/DSC_0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2WOtIFOcwTSPs-7AG4k8Y0Vag_RBIDFHsKOpQUHH1WrAWDCxjakZY6vupIhrTWfQyDDyPwmAw2OhQFa5pBg3zRJZKfv8ElRcYDkZKAgezPlghuJCUbdd9u_rY5ssv_wvTpJhhsI2umE/s1600/DSC_0096.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
#3 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/04/how-to-effectively-ditch-spider.html">How To EFFECTIVELY Ditch a Spider</a><br />
I don't think there IS a better way.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQCGQKof9W9-1tPZlFvLkWHRUbqjWcVa6JxKvK77vtIf-Q0QUzWKNzWdxXdcnoitJzo3tZgkNx75KCGsqMAw8jqDFjmJKnk6hVaZl5QVycMbjYG92MqBLHmXRuiQ8kE34HDmSperNg1TS/s1600/IMG_3159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQCGQKof9W9-1tPZlFvLkWHRUbqjWcVa6JxKvK77vtIf-Q0QUzWKNzWdxXdcnoitJzo3tZgkNx75KCGsqMAw8jqDFjmJKnk6hVaZl5QVycMbjYG92MqBLHmXRuiQ8kE34HDmSperNg1TS/s1600/IMG_3159.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
#2 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/03/three-steps-to-toilet-living-in-tiny.html">Three Steps to the Toilet- Living in a Tiny House</a><br />
Still wanna have a beer with this gal.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDG4xUDJKUVBcsYibzzSyhjEjLawg3idbFo-5xqU4U7irTCotiHuxqoeMbUXQSKQ3_TPOxxBO2ZGUMfVontNorAjBwqrY9ddoJPQXIiod6e9d6I3a5TerypC4GS7iMTpPQvkRzr2NFGo/s1600/2008492679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDG4xUDJKUVBcsYibzzSyhjEjLawg3idbFo-5xqU4U7irTCotiHuxqoeMbUXQSKQ3_TPOxxBO2ZGUMfVontNorAjBwqrY9ddoJPQXIiod6e9d6I3a5TerypC4GS7iMTpPQvkRzr2NFGo/s1600/2008492679.jpg" height="320" width="260" /></a></div>
#1 <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/12/the-best-gifts-we-gave-this-year.html">The Best Gifts We Gave This Year</a><br />
My heart is happy knowing that this post has reached the most readers.<br />
Give when you can.<br />
It will make you, and someone else, feel good.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/12/the-best-gifts-we-gave-this-year.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqUHHyYGVx_xPziaU4FQn1px_SBwe7mZ03EtzDf_wc2wMSheTRvrnzk59OQECJf5JBLYXNDb2459SxXCwUpCKiC7EpfjfkqPzifQIajvcxQ2RTga2-ek6xZrMTzAhHNnqnDmcmsqhWdc/s1600/DSC_0035_zpsf56db7df.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
High-fives and beaming smiles to all you readers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thanks for hanging at the Hearth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's to a week of so-much-smiling-your-face-hurts…</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>P.S. "Like" </i></b><b style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> for</i></b><b style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i> news, updates and reader tips.</i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-17011385472181748582014-06-24T11:01:00.002-04:002014-11-24T01:07:47.422-05:00Why You Should Drive Across the Country<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In 2003, Fella and I drove across the country and back. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was, definitely, one of the most fulfilling adventures of our lives. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With our Jeep packed full of camping equipment, clothing-stuffed duffle bags, food, water, one basic cell phone (with no Internet) and a big ol' road map (no GPS)...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
we hopped in the car, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
high-fived, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
turned on the radio </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
and started driving west. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Zx-H0htu8OWdNOQzua5wiif9zjNz3cx15wnEUxnYJHs80gd6QGrkal-yoUQd2d2yVe-eOJRMD9YuJStBZlFo-nhfcsAW8vpCfpwpqLxxzGBIcxqS3xt6yWiJrXSVFYZzriBzkQn950A/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Zx-H0htu8OWdNOQzua5wiif9zjNz3cx15wnEUxnYJHs80gd6QGrkal-yoUQd2d2yVe-eOJRMD9YuJStBZlFo-nhfcsAW8vpCfpwpqLxxzGBIcxqS3xt6yWiJrXSVFYZzriBzkQn950A/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" height="422" title="drive cross country" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our single map and travel journals</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The goal was simple— <i><b>hit as many national parks as possible, swim in the Pacific and venture home</b></i>.<br />
<br />
That was our only real plan.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Everything else was left to chance.</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<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/AVvXsEjq0WW9_6rbGnL568vcL6ryWtyYA4Emy78w4SMc9Gn9pQMYUJV8pvyK9L63jgOafwz5MQoTVksiPq3PEmPXuPefpaVWl8xAX5OrBAPoJK4w9C4DkwOjtFR4H5ui7wzt9ORQ-YCtjk55Pzo/s1600/IMG_5825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0WW9_6rbGnL568vcL6ryWtyYA4Emy78w4SMc9Gn9pQMYUJV8pvyK9L63jgOafwz5MQoTVksiPq3PEmPXuPefpaVWl8xAX5OrBAPoJK4w9C4DkwOjtFR4H5ui7wzt9ORQ-YCtjk55Pzo/s1600/IMG_5825.JPG" height="231" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tagging the Pacific for the first time!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And THAT, my friends, is exactly why you need to make this journey.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our society spends so much time planning, especially with the immediate-gratification of today's technology.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Where's the nearest gas station? <i>Google it.</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Which campground has the best reviews?<i> Ask Siri.</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How many waterfalls are in Yellowstone? <i>Boom.</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As we charged forward on our cross-country journey, we couldn't rely on technology (no email, texting, social media or web searching for over one month) so we relied on each other instead.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
And it was one of the most liberating, inspiring times of our lives. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kVarojMHMH4QNBojS0PcSVafOFfPRgfmiYY0Sp9LRTEmkQE0eDEnDDCunNwC_bJPq2BR4W_Khp4nuEOSNN7bzMFBOOhWXRatzWXYCkHDokunAZS2Ric53GwM8K5UJJ9180QFkHpPaTc/s1600/DSC_0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kVarojMHMH4QNBojS0PcSVafOFfPRgfmiYY0Sp9LRTEmkQE0eDEnDDCunNwC_bJPq2BR4W_Khp4nuEOSNN7bzMFBOOhWXRatzWXYCkHDokunAZS2Ric53GwM8K5UJJ9180QFkHpPaTc/s1600/DSC_0025.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We kept track of the most frequently played and weirdest songs we heard and movies to watch again (after being inspired by stops on our adventure)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
People, if you know me…<br />
I'm a planner.<br />
<br />
It's an issue of mine.<br />
<br />
At first, the idea of driving across the country…freestyle, scared the hey-ell outta me.<br />
But I trusted my fella and knew the voyage was bound to be the exploration adventure of a lifetime.<br />
<br />
And, whooo-doggy was it!<br />
<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/AVvXsEh5GxunDRYRw5n61P7CjxcSyIxnjhEQN6gParBZ5UU20C48evvXvurFLjRYIAcuNBi-zXSCySC6e2MKTSkNBj6qqnqDsqH9vWjqVXRzfbA1Aa5emVyOpKqoTXm9brnQ70Gni-GJsw3iInI/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5GxunDRYRw5n61P7CjxcSyIxnjhEQN6gParBZ5UU20C48evvXvurFLjRYIAcuNBi-zXSCySC6e2MKTSkNBj6qqnqDsqH9vWjqVXRzfbA1Aa5emVyOpKqoTXm9brnQ70Gni-GJsw3iInI/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our only source of direction. No GPS.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over a month of driving, camping, adventuring, gabbing, and discovering the phenomenal wonders of our country assured us that we were on the right path in the changing chapter of our lives and as a unified team together.<br />
<br />
Find the perfect partner and go.<br />
Say you will.<br />
Because those spacious skies couldn't be more beautiful…<br />
Send me a postcard from as far as you can get.<br />
<br />
See it all!<br />
XOXO<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/"> From My Hearth to Yours</a><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-15765432779634676142014-06-17T10:10:00.000-04:002014-11-24T01:08:23.209-05:00LASIK Follow-Up Report: The Dry, Hazy Truth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I posted<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/03/lasik-7-notes-for-clearer-future.html"><i> LASIK- 7 Notes for a Clearer Future</i></a> two weeks after my procedure was completed. </div>
<br />
Now, over 3 months later, an honest update is due.<br />
For me, things are a little dry and hazy.<br />
Gotta keep it real.<br />
<br />
I was told that it's common for LASIK patients to need time for newly corrected eyes to adjust, so I haven't been too worried about my less-than-perfect distance clarity.<br />
<br />
But at my 3-month follow-up appointment, my doctor determined what I already suspected—my eyes have become so dry from the procedure that my distance vision is slightly compromised (I'm at 20/20 and 20/40).<br />
<br />
Naturally, I prefer greater visual precision. Gotta make some moves to improve clarity.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been feeling pretty bummed out that I could see more clearly with my contacts, and this squinting biz is the pits, so I'm all in for following orders to improve distance clarity. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4FaVF-XsXNgOOsXaAm1AzNsNxIyMnjP51B2p1IqJGmCJk_ZS8FPajGM1nqR9a-Yhp10iQssQ0UZSv-oDHwvAiwCPGputk7omtzb8ifukGvVY47sbP7vMM6DF5iVQ3A0TGOJfXQ-NrQXA/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="LASIK dry eye" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4FaVF-XsXNgOOsXaAm1AzNsNxIyMnjP51B2p1IqJGmCJk_ZS8FPajGM1nqR9a-Yhp10iQssQ0UZSv-oDHwvAiwCPGputk7omtzb8ifukGvVY47sbP7vMM6DF5iVQ3A0TGOJfXQ-NrQXA/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" height="438" title="LASIK follow up for dry eyes" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The plan is as follows:</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. Use artificial tears as often as possible, every hour if I can remember.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. Take odorless fish oil supplements daily.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. Begin using prescription Restasis drops both morning and night for several months.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All relatively simple steps but <b><i>worth a warning</i></b> to those of you who are considering LASIK. If you're on a budget, you know that LASIK ain't cheap. Insurance doesn't cover much and you'll likely pay a hefty out-of-pocket sum. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you, too, end up with dry eyes after the procedure, the cost of drops, supplements and prescriptions starts adding up quickly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
LASIK was expensive on its own, and now with dry eyes, my current treatments are getting pricey.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Food for thought if you know you'll break the bank on the procedure. Remember that follow up care might get costly as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If my current situation doesn't improve after several months, the next step will be to insert <a href="http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/punctal-plugs.htm">punctal plugs</a> in both tear ducts to block drainage. It sounds worse than it is—a simple, in-office procedure.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You KNOW I'll be reporting as time passes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just wanted to keep you in the loop if you're weighing LASIK pros and cons. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Do your homework. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The ultimate question- <b><i>Do I regret getting LASIK?</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nope. I packed an overnight bag last weekend with no glasses, contact cases or solutions and felt so liberated. And today, I'll be swimming without the worry of losing a lens! No regrets at all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The process worked. It's just not perfect. Yet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Will update soon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><b>Open for questions and advice if you're into this.</b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's to clarity!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-25005303215813723882014-06-10T10:02:00.000-04:002014-11-24T01:09:00.259-05:00Why We've Been FEEDING & SAVING Stink Bugs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Shaking your head yet?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wondering if I've gone totally wackadoo?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You heard me right.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not only am I collecting and saving stinkers instead of the standard slaughter, I'm feeding them as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje5lCz921-p9JMWQx-sRMllkFT1mW51r4p0vuLlC-a3hp5ruNy8XLPOM4vIZvklmqb8I3E0mvfD6T7iyHFX443Sw3kMEAnnwtnXPt6I5uHkp0DMmZScFK1YmMk4LflNDB2n81Kc7i4MhY/s1600/DSC_0057.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje5lCz921-p9JMWQx-sRMllkFT1mW51r4p0vuLlC-a3hp5ruNy8XLPOM4vIZvklmqb8I3E0mvfD6T7iyHFX443Sw3kMEAnnwtnXPt6I5uHkp0DMmZScFK1YmMk4LflNDB2n81Kc7i4MhY/s1600/DSC_0057.jpg" height="414" title="Brown Marmorated Stink Bug" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Weirder still?</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm keeping them hydrated,</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
cleaning their messes,</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
and changing their food.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Say whaaaaaaa?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've crossed over, changed our thinking and decided it's time to make bolder moves for mass destruction. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Because that's enough now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After contacting a local research lab, we began collecting and caring for every bugger we'd otherwise gleefully murder. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMN9lLecVPmFGfaVljq4Doc1BSRJ0osHyDCnLWGgQNmuXgI1WefRR2GhiNOFVzcmnQJtq0g3oSlK6aP08DUXDiwJlKhhO0OuaaYV_dMU-Yt6s6CVtgWaENhZh44SU5uaxfNHmYEcA2Xo/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMN9lLecVPmFGfaVljq4Doc1BSRJ0osHyDCnLWGgQNmuXgI1WefRR2GhiNOFVzcmnQJtq0g3oSlK6aP08DUXDiwJlKhhO0OuaaYV_dMU-Yt6s6CVtgWaENhZh44SU5uaxfNHmYEcA2Xo/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" height="532" title="Stink Bug cage " width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stink bug cage with food and water vessels</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A young, bright and completely AWESOME scientist brought us a collection cage, fresh carrots and green beans (to balance their diet) and water vessels to keep spawn healthy during captivity.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1zTVqpwngGHtM6UTztCnHqryU8Swnk9x6Knaog2H-mLjhbnBKE-5aQAWsYkcQcTvOTwiFWSCJQ3nNRO3aW8hy1BzYfmeO4_I0A2xQNjD-o8MsL0h8-vq3YLaKWLI-MHSqep2ddpnYBI/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1zTVqpwngGHtM6UTztCnHqryU8Swnk9x6Knaog2H-mLjhbnBKE-5aQAWsYkcQcTvOTwiFWSCJQ3nNRO3aW8hy1BzYfmeO4_I0A2xQNjD-o8MsL0h8-vq3YLaKWLI-MHSqep2ddpnYBI/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our mission now is to collect and send off as many bugs as possible, with the hope that our contribution can aid in evicting stinkers for good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ask around and look for a local collection site near you. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVWLsZvLubgoMqdd_VadbOZvYB0-Ws13LhFgbGG3tcs-gu4JAL6ovQX6gygD4udlLI8GJiwi202T6ZEMErkFKgXrUJJ_EsiJUOZ0iiHscsMozKBJ8DDeG_5Osm04A0D9BItl6Kx0MR1CY/s1600/DSC_0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="stink bug cage" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVWLsZvLubgoMqdd_VadbOZvYB0-Ws13LhFgbGG3tcs-gu4JAL6ovQX6gygD4udlLI8GJiwi202T6ZEMErkFKgXrUJJ_EsiJUOZ0iiHscsMozKBJ8DDeG_5Osm04A0D9BItl6Kx0MR1CY/s1600/DSC_0036.jpg" height="640" title="Brown Marmorated Stink Bug" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We catch bugs in an old pill jar, pull off the cage's net, toss 'em in and them ship 'em outta here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you live near Rutgers, you can drop off live specimen <a href="http://njaes.rutgers.edu/stinkbug/faq.asp#sending">here</a>, send them to Eastern NY-Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Project <a href="http://www.hvmag.com/core/pagetools.php?pageid=8482&url=%2FHudson-Valley-Magazine%2FJune-2011%2FEastern-New-York-rsquos-Brown-Marmorated-Stink-Bug-Project%2F&mode=print">here</a>, Oregon State Department of Agriculture <a href="http://horticulture.oregonstate.edu/content/report-brown-marmorated-stinkbug">here</a>, or Texas AgriLife Research <a href="http://citybugs.tamu.edu/idhelp/">here</a>. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And that was just a 5-minute search. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Imagine how many other places are looking…and might even PAY for your stink bug specimens?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Most importantly, each bug collected will help scientists find a way to eradicate STANKIN' SPAWN from our turf. </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/AVvXsEj5ZYoZ_z-BCztds7TYc7NpKpu5K4rGdz-gUcjc49IUR97yb5BCuwQqtkLPFzL_GqMjnqB4vG4rckrTpQS7luo10UbgsLgDQrqk37YFMlCmWAaSXyDbiL4T7KDoK0DDqt_yh5V_JyEzg4I/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZYoZ_z-BCztds7TYc7NpKpu5K4rGdz-gUcjc49IUR97yb5BCuwQqtkLPFzL_GqMjnqB4vG4rckrTpQS7luo10UbgsLgDQrqk37YFMlCmWAaSXyDbiL4T7KDoK0DDqt_yh5V_JyEzg4I/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" height="422" title="stink bugs" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We've sent off over 165 stinkers so far!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All stinks need a constant water source (we have cotton soaked in water, but you can use damp paper towels) and a few fresh green beans and carrots for a balanced diet (replace veggies once they show signs of spoilage as the mold will kill your POWs). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Been throwing uppercuts at stink bugs whizzing by in your family room?</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Find a research center near you, suck it up, trap, collect and pass them off to the scientists.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
Lend a hand to help send spawn on their way, would ya?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Our biggest home eradication move of all is about to go into action.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Stay tuned…</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Here's to a stink-free scene!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Catch up on the horror show with previous posts-</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/04/stink-bug-hideout.html">Stink Bug Hideout</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/03/stink-bug-war-phase-1-tactic.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stink Bug WAR- Phase 1 Tactic</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/02/stink-bugs-in-dead-of-winter.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stink Bugs in the Dead of Winter</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/10/stink-bugs-theyre-baaaaaack.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stink Bugs: They're Baaaaaack!</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/05/ten-scenes-of-horror-living-with-stink.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ten Scenes of Horror: Living with Stink Bugs</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/04/our-house-all-inclusive-stink-bug.html">Our House- The All-Inclusive Stink Bug Resort</a></span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px;">
"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-78424645417397286022014-06-02T11:17:00.002-04:002014-11-24T01:09:51.198-05:00How to Convert a Bookshelf into a Storage Headboard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whenever I pop into my daughter's room, I wonder if the mess qualifies for disaster relief. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Kid needs storage and organization tactics. Quick.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've had this old, unfinished bookshelf laying around forever. Out of necessity, I decided to amp it up for use as a headboard in our kiddo's bedroom. </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/AVvXsEjnfAjR-S5SrobvsQ3Oe3huXV2uMTeXRxhmNOdWuTAnXnRYdJuRhLdz-ZzdyIryOiDxKmwXWp_8u2EnmQyb0RgiNTh9xCdQeAAz7E-yPdaD6V9pByZ0NhzNXODy2xVwVv94Ra1mvIWc5w0/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfAjR-S5SrobvsQ3Oe3huXV2uMTeXRxhmNOdWuTAnXnRYdJuRhLdz-ZzdyIryOiDxKmwXWp_8u2EnmQyb0RgiNTh9xCdQeAAz7E-yPdaD6V9pByZ0NhzNXODy2xVwVv94Ra1mvIWc5w0/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" height="400" title="turn a bookshelf into a headboard" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bookshelf- with makeshift sides to be used as supports for conversion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To start, I jazzed up that bookshelf with a fresh coat of stain and shellac.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Check out previous post<i> <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/02/stain-mania-simple-furniture-makeover.html">Stain Mania</a></i> for specifics on how to add pizazz to unfinished pieces. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTmBw0j3cmvEXUZi37-4cz9UpzaNTIN_jn2WObHddRkyApvzakhGvr55l47C1LP25EKx2NuY2PU9FXCdcH6pfcisF8HprlUf4Bdw3hsfEtn1n9HVQe5La4sOavhvUlgIKoijbB1ykfZQ/s1600/DSC_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTmBw0j3cmvEXUZi37-4cz9UpzaNTIN_jn2WObHddRkyApvzakhGvr55l47C1LP25EKx2NuY2PU9FXCdcH6pfcisF8HprlUf4Bdw3hsfEtn1n9HVQe5La4sOavhvUlgIKoijbB1ykfZQ/s1600/DSC_0022.JPG" height="390" title="turn a bookshelf into a headboard" width="640" /></a></div>
After allowing ample dry time, my husband screwed supports into the bottom of the piece and we brought 'er upstairs for the big set up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGee7XfKvmk6a0u4_nIgj6vHAZ24dboQREmC5DsLI2aiawfEpZgXd-EayLR1MnQo5RK58PMlBhDU9v7EE0utC83uS89FEqLnEryA8vsy7NU2H_s-jKtHzlAZaOT7A3dsFZtaa-qtDFOL0/s1600/IMG_5562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGee7XfKvmk6a0u4_nIgj6vHAZ24dboQREmC5DsLI2aiawfEpZgXd-EayLR1MnQo5RK58PMlBhDU9v7EE0utC83uS89FEqLnEryA8vsy7NU2H_s-jKtHzlAZaOT7A3dsFZtaa-qtDFOL0/s1600/IMG_5562.JPG" height="254" title="turn a bookshelf into a headboard" width="640" /></a></div>
Our daughter had such a blast filling her new headboard with books, toys, photos and trinkets.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Now, she has easy access to some of her favorite goodies and shouldn't need to be bouncing 'round the room after lights out. Everything she needs is immediately within reach!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6Y1Pr4GF5gzQvZnyTlLvSgTdqAh0lvxt7UzHsi3zor_jJCKKJIZHAwslD_NnOJlgdvC3LgQmg-fHEElU61-D98l4cx-I-qqCtTlcBrUd6Lo3844jny8MJKnS-UZ_NBnt681zpd3V9uo/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6Y1Pr4GF5gzQvZnyTlLvSgTdqAh0lvxt7UzHsi3zor_jJCKKJIZHAwslD_NnOJlgdvC3LgQmg-fHEElU61-D98l4cx-I-qqCtTlcBrUd6Lo3844jny8MJKnS-UZ_NBnt681zpd3V9uo/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" height="422" title="turn a bookshelf into a headboard" width="640" /></a></div>
Clean-up has been much more convenient with the additional storage space.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhit0JeSX-dDElISTHOHNG6StGRhbQUVLKZKykjfHI2ks7llaoRyg_inmLj31kigvFygFNyivS-8GxzA4AIKSy34XGMV10BbnTDC4kdVNRLpS_4dzJOfljh39lue6hXR5OaGQAZNRh2YvE/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhit0JeSX-dDElISTHOHNG6StGRhbQUVLKZKykjfHI2ks7llaoRyg_inmLj31kigvFygFNyivS-8GxzA4AIKSy34XGMV10BbnTDC4kdVNRLpS_4dzJOfljh39lue6hXR5OaGQAZNRh2YvE/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" height="422" title="turn a bookshelf into a headboard" width="640" /></a></div>
Converting this old bookshelf into a useful, storage-filled headboard couldn't have turned out better!<br />
LOVE the look. LOVE the functionality.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqRCxV5rsFbrgcSbZgEqD6xcQsqIC37qHGTLIENDsLiC2PeXn0kX4Lfd6FJMAiYCWGiToteHR83Izg492SBHgVUF96_LOJp9E0dO7eVNfU1ROrED-kkP7ZDdDwBer6JbP-Z70iaVs8t8/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqRCxV5rsFbrgcSbZgEqD6xcQsqIC37qHGTLIENDsLiC2PeXn0kX4Lfd6FJMAiYCWGiToteHR83Izg492SBHgVUF96_LOJp9E0dO7eVNfU1ROrED-kkP7ZDdDwBer6JbP-Z70iaVs8t8/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" height="398" title="turn a bookshelf into a headboard" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This was an incredibly simple, successful project that will be enjoyed for years to come. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Two thumbs up for thwarting kid room clutter!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i>Don't forget to enter the Hugg-A-Planet GIVEAWAY <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2014/05/hugg-planet-giveaway.html" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">here</a> and score the coolest prize for someone you love!</i></b></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-3562145509870093970" itemprop="description articleBody" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; width: 680px; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span><br />
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-21175415640683817912014-05-27T09:58:00.002-04:002014-11-24T01:10:29.847-05:00Hugg-A-Planet GIVEAWAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wanna win the world?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The moon?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mars?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You've got over a week to win ALL THREE!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In previous post <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2012/12/where-in-world-teaching-geography.html" style="font-style: italic;">Where in the World- Teaching Geography</a>, I detailed the tools we've found to get our girlies psyched about the layout of our lands.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The super cool, family-owned and operated crew over at, <a href="http://huggaplanet.com/">Hugg-A-Planet </a>sent us their<a href="http://huggaplanet.com/spsteamomase.html"> ISS Earth Moon Mars 3 pc. set</a>—to send my science nerd crew right outta this world!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1Zq13NCfjnol9R_VKz6TwSn1pL-qLLN-pUc2aKBHxhyphenhyphenXEfQoe-whREyIW1qyzYjK0BHxlbDVy7VeexSPWkBi06BLKTLJg2fF8kE5mGutQOgp4Y_KWviRGw-4XtMbVVjpkcyzXXOAu1U/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ISS Earth Moon Mars set" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1Zq13NCfjnol9R_VKz6TwSn1pL-qLLN-pUc2aKBHxhyphenhyphenXEfQoe-whREyIW1qyzYjK0BHxlbDVy7VeexSPWkBi06BLKTLJg2fF8kE5mGutQOgp4Y_KWviRGw-4XtMbVVjpkcyzXXOAu1U/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" height="360" title="Hugg-A-Planet " width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the kind of company we fully stand behind— sponsoring International Peace Day events and donating to both Toys Across America and Montessori schools across the globe.<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
Generous to the <i>core</i>, Hugg-A-Planet is down to share their world with YOU, offering up an <a href="http://huggaplanet.com/spsteamomase.html">ISS kit </a>to one lucky Hearth reader- a $49.95 value!<br />
BLASTOFF!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XKs82rhqj-YxCK2pooxoAvDDS60oT5Q6CsI36O4YxsG_9RGEFROIvxSsH0TqPwLKzDmI1RTuMIzT7MM1BW4z2Ik6QgF75pz7eM8N3qy6i_yoRL7LLFIL6sdXL_yAqsDJu7_Yjyrp9JY/s1600/DSC_0118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Hugg-A-Planet" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XKs82rhqj-YxCK2pooxoAvDDS60oT5Q6CsI36O4YxsG_9RGEFROIvxSsH0TqPwLKzDmI1RTuMIzT7MM1BW4z2Ik6QgF75pz7eM8N3qy6i_yoRL7LLFIL6sdXL_yAqsDJu7_Yjyrp9JY/s1600/DSC_0118.JPG" height="422" title="ISS Earth Moon Mars set" width="640" /></a>Hugg-A-Planets are where it's AT if you're looking for fun, educational products that you'll wanna keep around through all stages.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Roll it as a ball and teach hand-eye coordination (stuff the moon inside the pocket in the Earth pillow) with the wee ones. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Snuggle up, play catch, teach geography and astronomy with the bigger brainiacs. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>And it really does make a stellar pillow...</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We give these products our <i>all-star</i> review!<br />
<br />
Extra awesome?<br />
<b>All readers can enter coupon code<i> "HEARTH"</i> now through the end of August to get 15% off any <a href="http://huggaplanet.com/">Hugg-A-Planet</a> order!</b><br />
<br />
Every giveaway entrant has up to FOUR chances to win this OUT OF THIS WORLD prize!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: start;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0px; font-family: Helvetica;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
</div>
*****</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>So, how do you nab the prize?</b></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>"Like" Hugg-A-Planet on Facebook <a href="http://facebook.com/huggaplanet">here</a> and leave a comment on <i><u>this</u></i> blog post</b><span style="color: #909090;">. </span></span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;">A randomizer program will select one lucky winner from the comment list on this page to take home the goods! </span><span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"> (1 entry)</span><br />
<span style="color: #909090; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>Wanna increase your odds?</b></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>"Like" <i>From My Hearth to Yours</i> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="text-decoration: none;">on Facebook</a></b><span style="color: #909090;"> for one additional entry. Already on board? Comment separately below and, I do declare, you'll be swimming in that game pool twice! Always trying to increase the odds for regular readers here at the Hearth! (1 entry)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #909090;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Or scroll down on the right side bar to </span><b>join up with</b></span><b><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span><i>From My Hearth to Yours</i><span style="line-height: 17px;"> </span></b><span style="line-height: 17px;"><b>on Google Friend Connect</b> <span style="color: #909090;">for yet another entry. Comment to notify me on this page, stay in the Hearth's loop, and tack on one additional shot at the prize! (1 entry)</span></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #909090;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"></span></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><span style="color: #909090;">Lastly, feel free to </span><b>share the link to this giveaway on FB or Twitter</b><span style="color: #909090;"> for one more entry. Comment on this post to let me know you've shared. (1 entry)</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">*****</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>Good luck, everyone! </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><b>XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #909090;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"><i>*Giveaway is open to ALL <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/" style="color: #454dda; text-decoration: none;">From My Hearth to Yours</a> readers until Wednesday, June 4 at 9p.m. EST. Winner will be announced on Thurs, June 5. </i></span><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;">If prize is unclaimed after 72 hours, the next number in the randomizer list will be declared the winner.</i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17px;"> Free shipping in USA only.</span></span></b></span><br />
<b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><i style="background-color: #e9edec; color: red;">***GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED. THANKS FOR PLAYING!***</i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8081695078595265826.post-13578597507282166502014-05-20T10:53:00.000-04:002014-11-24T01:11:04.842-05:00Green Thumbs and Flower Power<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Been planting this season?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I just couldn't BE more into it.</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/AVvXsEgAp-yKsGF4WB_YqLwR2noN53gWZ5okUaCQJDeSaczghceo40Ffk7xK7GG4VmzLxOp14JLzacPbP8f3NyYK0FHHVyKUlysFBesWkt2IpFiXVYB7bwmBswj-y1Y7ORcUG3WReMlbiDR1B5w/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAp-yKsGF4WB_YqLwR2noN53gWZ5okUaCQJDeSaczghceo40Ffk7xK7GG4VmzLxOp14JLzacPbP8f3NyYK0FHHVyKUlysFBesWkt2IpFiXVYB7bwmBswj-y1Y7ORcUG3WReMlbiDR1B5w/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" height="422" title="Strawflower, petunia, verbena, sweet potato vine, nasturtium, snap dragon, lobelia, coleus" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">strawflower, petunia, verbena, sweet potato vine, nasturtium, snap dragon, lobelia, coleus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The feel of sunshine against my shoulders, the sound of birdies a'chirping, the softness of the soil, organization of shapes, textures and colors…right up my alley.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This year, I'm really stuffin' 'em in there—going for a wild eruption of flowering foliage. </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/AVvXsEgAw3Hz7onS8eU6HuCsCwsFVwP4ClpVYvAc8bN2X3CPgh4KFaanUYHGCH1rj0WoPqzzuyi7LLheknDTjQ5Rc8h-I5x4tjo9ChCbA1FF87hPRo452Ca1ydep1ozMoxP3KMjiXwYlHAHUMPI/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAw3Hz7onS8eU6HuCsCwsFVwP4ClpVYvAc8bN2X3CPgh4KFaanUYHGCH1rj0WoPqzzuyi7LLheknDTjQ5Rc8h-I5x4tjo9ChCbA1FF87hPRo452Ca1ydep1ozMoxP3KMjiXwYlHAHUMPI/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" height="640" title="sweet potato vine, petunia, begonia, verbena, osteospermum, lobelia, calibrochia" width="594" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sweet potato vine, petunia, begonia, verbena, osteospermum, lobelia, calibrochia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've been studying up on making the most of my large containers, so each has plants that will hang, those that will grow tall, some to fill, flower and balance color.<br />
<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/AVvXsEh3Sg9GiWpqId0TdnJ4pWyF14Vfo5lYbuNu6YGqxpKtCmMsk1jVklI9SLmvA4hdbl8yaSHgNgryIauYmVQQqyMml0Ni-hdzhYN8dLj6YDa58c-8QncsBsEc6wJTYeFnz-LBiNsITpI3GXE/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Sg9GiWpqId0TdnJ4pWyF14Vfo5lYbuNu6YGqxpKtCmMsk1jVklI9SLmvA4hdbl8yaSHgNgryIauYmVQQqyMml0Ni-hdzhYN8dLj6YDa58c-8QncsBsEc6wJTYeFnz-LBiNsITpI3GXE/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" height="422" title="marigold, alyssum, coleus, begonia, lobelia, sweet potato vine, gerbera daisy, verbena" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">marigold, alyssum, coleus, begonia, lobelia, sweet potato vine, gerbera daisy, verbena</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa9bLdGMjorg7YxPxOVK2MeEUUOr-j87koULHudDkaSccCsb8xkbPACLREQkKaaNUM8OAljsH2i_Fk8ur1rciIyZSuEixlBopfR87PfZWrO3QBrtCEozuFwPElGdmTXo_REIfTAaOMWU/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa9bLdGMjorg7YxPxOVK2MeEUUOr-j87koULHudDkaSccCsb8xkbPACLREQkKaaNUM8OAljsH2i_Fk8ur1rciIyZSuEixlBopfR87PfZWrO3QBrtCEozuFwPElGdmTXo_REIfTAaOMWU/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" height="640" title="alyssum, calendula, lobelia, canna, begonia and nasturtium" width="460" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">alyssum, calendula, lobelia, canna, begonia and nasturtium</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The box and window planters are filled with dianthus, petunia, alyssum, marigold, lobelia, zinnia, gazania and ageratum.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaVn5BMqn8BDIshCFJxIhKnNoeDFpahS9MjzJsnKkhv4dZg3ouD9YNs2pJkhNMt-H0RevDkCurCtdxBuOcHg0_tSJr0O9ONCXZUCVvsKAIKQBqNOjIcl8_IscYBIbDoIjSer7NQUbW1k/s1600/DSC_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaVn5BMqn8BDIshCFJxIhKnNoeDFpahS9MjzJsnKkhv4dZg3ouD9YNs2pJkhNMt-H0RevDkCurCtdxBuOcHg0_tSJr0O9ONCXZUCVvsKAIKQBqNOjIcl8_IscYBIbDoIjSer7NQUbW1k/s1600/DSC_0094.JPG" height="422" title="dianthus, petunia, marigold, lobelia, zinnia, gazania and ageratum" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As summer nears, these beauties will fill out and spill over with color.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPgQ8VuHAAW7-Blib6iCR7sSf81heu2INO-76dR7AdJTh8KJBDxzlPxdrqZwcHsvfFELj2e1MqmddSxgjr-hG9zaYQiRq0iLQh5Cidh0W_uhoNirmy7glpzJiNeVvVx74W8TaQgHjwk8/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPgQ8VuHAAW7-Blib6iCR7sSf81heu2INO-76dR7AdJTh8KJBDxzlPxdrqZwcHsvfFELj2e1MqmddSxgjr-hG9zaYQiRq0iLQh5Cidh0W_uhoNirmy7glpzJiNeVvVx74W8TaQgHjwk8/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" height="422" title="alyssum,dianthus, petunia, marigold, lobelia, zinnia, gazania and ageratum" width="640" /></a></div>
Why buy a bouquet of flowers when you can grow and cut 'em yourself? I keep pots of my favorite HAPPY flowers, gerbera daisies, around all spring and summer long.<br />
<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/AVvXsEjZXSIo0KrPQylwINCxItaErMO_inq9mdS4aR7W5RjwTE7cOjt07Jh1d3UXc4wEivluPObOfmLu6_E4onTQTiuXlowp9y88NeP7tfDInYUDp9Ib91y6yS8ZUwYW79yyh_aH0J3yAONhW9I/s1600/DSC_0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXSIo0KrPQylwINCxItaErMO_inq9mdS4aR7W5RjwTE7cOjt07Jh1d3UXc4wEivluPObOfmLu6_E4onTQTiuXlowp9y88NeP7tfDInYUDp9Ib91y6yS8ZUwYW79yyh_aH0J3yAONhW9I/s1600/DSC_0091.JPG" height="422" title="gerbera daisy" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gerbera daisy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gerbera daisies grow quickly and, once cut, last for weeks in vases They're perfect for adding a pop of perfection both indoors and outside.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJfttGaDGb_JKMU_77K9Zp4YPwyCC_vozjwEaCjHnc13zTGACExv7thrSHGraQvtNS0GkesKZrVcDXcae83nZMfD39eCTdEWtDCFt_d3taire4fyD4q5iWEU5VzZrZ8vpFrKg_Xbc7IVo/s1600/DSC_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJfttGaDGb_JKMU_77K9Zp4YPwyCC_vozjwEaCjHnc13zTGACExv7thrSHGraQvtNS0GkesKZrVcDXcae83nZMfD39eCTdEWtDCFt_d3taire4fyD4q5iWEU5VzZrZ8vpFrKg_Xbc7IVo/s1600/DSC_0095.JPG" height="422" title="gerbera daisy" width="640" /></a></div>
Our girls are in charge of snipping daisies for vases that bring color and happiness indoors.<br />
<br />
We keep them in the bathrooms...<br />
<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/AVvXsEjz8xq8CwCtC91Y46MbeX-e2z3Uigcb2B3Dt9NBGA_uFZfzf_njNvdnmRYOHW6wzJNoVApFRwCAhIZElEQkK4BAVHJPmGYuyyHONmHbTQRwL8Gag9XUcZHXqRvSXAm49Q_X08cqx0h4JmY/s1600/DSC_0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8xq8CwCtC91Y46MbeX-e2z3Uigcb2B3Dt9NBGA_uFZfzf_njNvdnmRYOHW6wzJNoVApFRwCAhIZElEQkK4BAVHJPmGYuyyHONmHbTQRwL8Gag9XUcZHXqRvSXAm49Q_X08cqx0h4JmY/s1600/DSC_0096.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gerbera daisies and lilac</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
in the kitchen...<br />
<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/AVvXsEhBi3SPAissKoG44e42Dq8LZ5bwjSo6Bzl8seWN_o-CrE41l-e9m1dgCohw_wyiKA2zHrCsTdrb_164KAiS2SCUc1gfFgatPnk8a1_LUXjx6kxM1lbg7_ZsJwHKWJPFcynVWD9WgsJeB3s/s1600/DSC_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBi3SPAissKoG44e42Dq8LZ5bwjSo6Bzl8seWN_o-CrE41l-e9m1dgCohw_wyiKA2zHrCsTdrb_164KAiS2SCUc1gfFgatPnk8a1_LUXjx6kxM1lbg7_ZsJwHKWJPFcynVWD9WgsJeB3s/s1600/DSC_0099.JPG" height="422" title="gerbera daisies and osteospermum" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gerbera daisies and osteospermum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
even on our family dinner table.<br />
<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/AVvXsEiCs3U87_LKhq2E_TWbBOmqwUcACAtAUimsMyT_dBa375YraxwGDTEONj7axqvFVEfx1zm7N-UNhGwCJuCPmLs7pb1KVUZpZDB_W7jwjjx7IaoG_AEGqLVgrlwZpfpZKD8cEhHc739UVm0/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCs3U87_LKhq2E_TWbBOmqwUcACAtAUimsMyT_dBa375YraxwGDTEONj7axqvFVEfx1zm7N-UNhGwCJuCPmLs7pb1KVUZpZDB_W7jwjjx7IaoG_AEGqLVgrlwZpfpZKD8cEhHc739UVm0/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" height="422" title="gerbera daisies and lilac" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gerbera daisies and lilac</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There's radiant color and inspiration around every turn. We can't wait to get outside these days. With so much stunning scenery, it's no wonder why.<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><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIfcw3uFFRUkPRtuXuPdXpnRtGmocKAyedkFgspDeKCVKOVUq8YPgxq_oE2xn6w6Gcuqcb8IlyOHTdlOAER-Zj5-FvG_llFgS9g9SXZfRBv5TmVFNSEcMzoktCXFdiRFks_KeecbpMBY/s1600/DSC_0092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIfcw3uFFRUkPRtuXuPdXpnRtGmocKAyedkFgspDeKCVKOVUq8YPgxq_oE2xn6w6Gcuqcb8IlyOHTdlOAER-Zj5-FvG_llFgS9g9SXZfRBv5TmVFNSEcMzoktCXFdiRFks_KeecbpMBY/s1600/DSC_0092.jpg" height="640" title="Marguerite daisy, calendula, zinnia, strawflower, petunia, verbena, sweet potato vine, nasturtium, snap dragon, lobelia, coleus" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Marguerite daisy, calendula, zinnia, strawflower, petunia, verbena, sweet potato vine, nasturtium, snap dragon, lobelia, coleus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Don't ya just love springtime?!?<br />
Here's to natural beauty, green thumbs and flower power!<br />
<i><b>What are your favorite flowers for planting?</b></i><br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
XOXO <a href="http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/">From My Hearth to Yours</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"Like" From My Hearth to Yours on Facebook </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromMyHearthToYours" style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #454dda; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> to stick around for updates, reader tips/comments and news.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-6026410331685916390" itemprop="description articleBody" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #e9edec; color: #909090; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; width: 680px; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00367515982128530341noreply@blogger.com1