tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15552494359944314792024-03-14T13:10:20.672-04:00Florida RasmussensKirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.comBlogger402125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-27767749669929102862013-05-12T00:40:00.002-04:002013-05-12T00:40:22.033-04:00My Mom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My Mom is the best. I want to be just like her-- I really do. Every once in a while people tell me that I remind them of my mom and those are the best compliments I could ask for.<br />
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I have been mentally compiling a list of all the life lessons my mom has taught me over the years, and it became ridiculously long. So I will narrow it down to just a few.<br />
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<b>On Shopping:</b> My mom taught me all about retail therapy-- the timeless truth that shopping makes everything better. She also taught me that half of the fun of shopping is the thrill of the chase-- finding what you are looking for at the lowest price possible. Regardless of your station in life, the Goodwill and Ross are two places that must be included in every shopping trip. (Together, we have found that the more "ghetto" a Ross is-- the better!) I'll always remember the bumper sticker on the back of my mom's old van-- "A Woman's Place is in the Mall". <br />
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<b>On Happiness:</b> My mom is the ultimate optimist. In the early 90's, our family moved a LOT. Looking back on it, I can't imagine how stressful and difficult those years were for my mom. But I didn't notice at the time because according to her, each move was "an amazing ADVENTURE!" She never complained or acted upset. She was too busy putting her positive spin on things and singing road trip songs. (Horsey, horsey...)<br />
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<b>On Marriage: </b>My mom is married to her very best friend. Together, they have been a great example of exactly what a good marriage looks like. She and my dad make fun of each other, bicker, tease, and laugh... a lot. They spend ridiculous amounts of time together, but still miss each other when they spend a few hours apart. She taught (through example) that "You're an idiot" can mean the exact same thing as "I love you".<br />
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<b>On Dreams:</b> My mom was always there for us. But I also remember that she was always involved in her own stuff too. She has had some really cool jobs-- like television producer of a local cable show and teacher of convicted felons in prison (she owns a pizzeria, for crying out loud!). Because of her example, I always knew I'd be a devoted mom and I always knew I would have a cool job. She showed that those two were completely compatible. My last job in Florida was actually with my mom-- we were co-workers teaching homeless students (and eating cuban food)!<br />
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<b>On Life:</b> My mom has taught me not to get stressed about the details of life. She taught me not to take myself too seriously or get offended very easily. She has instilled in me a love of animals and a passion for the scriptures. I have inherited a ridiculously high self-esteem from my mom. She has taught me to love who I am and not be fake or put on fronts. I have never seen my mom misrepresent herself-- ever. She has taught me that its just fine to be goofy (she invented a seminary rap song called the Gadianton Shuffle). <br />
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I realize this is getting long-- but there is so much more! My husband and kids adore her. She is a supportive and accepting mother-in-law and an AMAZING, loving "Girl Papas". In short-- she is our hero. We love you Mom!<br />
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<br />Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-77616423358920657132013-05-11T18:15:00.000-04:002013-05-11T18:15:55.957-04:00This Lady...I have had my mom and my mother-in-law on my mind a lot this week. I count these women as two of my greatest blessings. Here is a little bit about Lori Rasmussen.<br />
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Lori is amazing at all things domestic. She cooks like a southern lady (which is, by far, the best way to cook!) She sews and quilts and cans stuff. She does things that I don't understand-- like "soaks beans" (?) She makes perfect pies from scratch.<br />
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Lori is artistic. She ran a successful, thriving framing company out of her home for over twenty years. She was always encouraging her kids to be creative and artistic-- surprising them with new color pencils or a sketchpad. Because of her encouragement, several of her children are EXTREMELY talented artists.<br />
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Lori has always selflessly devoted her time to her family and to humanitarian work. She volunteers to work with mentally handicapped youth <i>every single week</i>. <br />
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She may be petite, but Lori is far from a docile, quiet homemaker. She is tough and strong and I'm pretty sure that she has perfected the "evil eye". She raised 5 crazy rambunctious kids (well, 4 crazy rambunctious + Kristy). <br />
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Lori is extremely unpretentious and non-judgmental. This is my very favorite thing about her. She has never, ever, <i>ever </i>made me feel bad about my lack of domestic skills (and I have NONE). It seems that all of her strengths are my weaknesses and I don't know how that doesn't drive her crazy. I could not have asked for a more amazing mother-in-law.<br />
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She is the consummate Grandma. She loves to don her apron and bake cookies with my kids. She reads to them and plays with them-- but is not afraid to put them in their place, when necessary. <br />
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Best of all, she raised one hell of a son! We all love you Lori. (But I think that I am especially grateful for you!)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lori and Baby Zoie- 2005</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lori and Baby Tobin- 2007</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lori and Baby Chase- 2009</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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(Judging from these pictures, I think Lori really likes green button-up shirts!)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Mothers Day!</span></div>
Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-75290800605105041042013-03-27T17:54:00.002-04:002013-03-27T17:54:52.101-04:00Texas Camping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our good friends from Florida, the Filettis, live on the other side of
Houston. We get together every few weeks and have taken a few family
camping trips this past Winter. Its the best way to camp-- the kids
(all 7 of them) entertain each other, and we always have a blast around
the campfire after the kids go to bed. This year we camped at Lake
Livingston and Somerville Lake. Here are a few pictures:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Somerville Lake, we camped right on the water</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids reluctantly posing for a picture</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Britt, Jared, and Lance trying to stay warm</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meals are always a bit crazy with 11 people</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase learned about the cruelty of nature when a yellow jacket stung him in the eye</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys throwing back a few cold ones</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBd65_6w6AGSSd6whOx1W_OkTjv656lVXZUp5swbyAs5eIu_C3H5Y6hf18WX6bcy_ljNg4CPaR4SuHLrQ1LCZnb94incTMAK4_dA2nGbi2OAlvF2gXxNOD3o1PedMGtrvUEGc1LypbipW/s1600/October+2012+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBd65_6w6AGSSd6whOx1W_OkTjv656lVXZUp5swbyAs5eIu_C3H5Y6hf18WX6bcy_ljNg4CPaR4SuHLrQ1LCZnb94incTMAK4_dA2nGbi2OAlvF2gXxNOD3o1PedMGtrvUEGc1LypbipW/s400/October+2012+015.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tobin's "manly" pose</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking pretty happy on Dad's lap<br />
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Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-81217701365296573012013-03-25T17:02:00.000-04:002013-03-25T17:02:03.755-04:00January: The Month of ZoieZoie turned 8 on January 29th. Although her birthday is toward the end of the month, looking back, I feel as though the entire month was devoted to birthday party/ baptism planning.<br />
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<b>The Party:</b><br />
I do not always throw elaborate parties for my kids. I try to encourage an outing (like the movies, or a "funland") with just a few friends. But this is Zoie's first birthday here in Texas, she has a close group of friends, and the 8th birthday is a pretty big deal around here. <br />
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So we had a party that was completely planned by Zoie (and executed by me). Make-up, accessories, karaoke, dancing, and crafts with a Rock Star theme. Zoie was in heaven. She had 15 girls come and she cleaned up in the gift department.<br />
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<br /><b>The Baptism</b>:<br />
Zoie's baptism day was one of the greatest days of my life. I knew it would be special, but I had no idea how amazing it would be. My parents, Lance's parents, Aunt Kristy, and Aunt Heidi all came down to Texas for the weekend. We have the best families in the world. It was so much fun to spend time with everyone.<br />
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The baptism was a small affair (my favorite kind). Everything was perfect. Lance was amazing at baptizing and confirming. Just thinking about it makes me happy. Here are some pictures: <br />
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Zoie's month is over. Now I have a few years to recover until Tobin's 8th birthday.Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-1154985567037716212013-01-10T16:12:00.000-05:002013-01-10T16:12:00.749-05:00Belated Annual Annoying Cliche Family Letter<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Happy 2013 everyone!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s a Rasmussen recap of our 2012:</span></b></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">The
first half of 2012 was blissfully calm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were enjoying our new Riverview home and neighborhood, where we spent
each afternoon at the pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were
taking advantage of our season tickets to Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lance was doing well as a Project Manager for
a concrete restoration company and Kira loved her part-time work as a literacy
coach for local homeless students.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All
was calm and right with the world…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">And
then everything changed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Lance
was offered a promotion within his company to their branch in Houston,
Texas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within a matter of weeks, we
traded in our flip-flops for cowboy boots and hightailed it out of Tampa.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Our
adjustment to Texas has been an easy one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We love our town, Kingwood—a master planned community about 20 miles
north of Houston.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent the summer
exploring the pools and parks in the area and going on bike rides through wooded
trails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were pleasantly surprised by
the quality of the schools, church, and people here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not hard to see why Texans are so dang
proud of their state.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Lance</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";"> has handled the added pressures
of his new position at work very well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
still gets frantic phone calls at all hours, but has had to travel very little
this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lance has found a renewed
love of hunting and guns here in Texas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
has had to endure countless mocking remarks from his wife each and every time
he dons his camouflage, but it’s worth it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lance serves in the Elder’s Quorum Presidency in the ward and played on
their softball team last fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After 35
years, he has finally sprouted facial hair and is having way too much fun
exploring the world of goatees and mustaches…</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">After
the chaos of the move<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">, Kira</b> thoroughly
enjoyed a lazy summer by the pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
recently started a part-time position as a reading coach at a local elementary
school and will be completing her Master’s in Education this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was no surprise when Kira was called back
into the Primary (where she has served since 2008).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In her spare time, Kira enjoys a borderline addiction
to reading/popcorn/diet coke and finding creative and clever new ways to avoid
cooking and cleaning.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Zoie</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";"> will be 8 in a few weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is so excited about her upcoming birthday
and baptism.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Zoie is growing up quickly
and spends more and more time in front of the bathroom mirror fixing her hair
and trying on clothes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is anxiously looking forward to swim
season so she can compete on the swim team.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Tobin</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";"> is 5 and started kindergarten
this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was moved into a dual language
class where he is taught in both English and Spanish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tobin joined the soccer team this year and
was surprisingly good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has developed
a love of video games—which we will have to keep an eye on.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Chase</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";"> (Slappy) is 3, and is the
epitome of a pesty little brother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is
loud, energetic, and has a constant need to play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His whole world is superheroes right
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While he is resistant to learning
his numbers and letters, he can tell you the difference between Bruce Wayne and Bruce
Banner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That kid makes us laugh every
day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">Over the
past year, our family was able to visit Utah (3 times!), where we went hiking,
shooting, hunting, snowboarding and sledding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We took up camping on the weekends and made a few day trips to
Austin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our goal in 2013 is to explore
the great state of Texas! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JRc18aM9zJ-h92u73kkow8v9UHZyv7FkiJKOTeO6T5Sc6f_LWGS_PH3B-UIL_pCsBYZC5YP40uXp9ZgD2G08ZACu5hGO-0K8IJKCVOXoZ1HAosiUCZKYUQhN3_L6Oyo2-gCquzAywHj4/s1600/083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JRc18aM9zJ-h92u73kkow8v9UHZyv7FkiJKOTeO6T5Sc6f_LWGS_PH3B-UIL_pCsBYZC5YP40uXp9ZgD2G08ZACu5hGO-0K8IJKCVOXoZ1HAosiUCZKYUQhN3_L6Oyo2-gCquzAywHj4/s320/083.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, Lance chose to "try out" a pervy mustache the same week we took family pictures.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial Narrow","sans-serif";">May 2013 be just every bit as fun (and maybe a bit less eventful) than 2012!</span></b></span></span></div>
Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-54938366077029077162013-01-08T19:49:00.000-05:002013-01-08T19:49:14.400-05:00Utah 2012We spent over 10 days in Utah. It was such a great time. <br />
<br />
We were able to spend time with both the Rasmussens and the Slovaceks for Christmas. <br />
We ate at my Mom's AMAZING pizzeria (Nicolitalia's in Provo) no less than three times.<br />
We took the kids sledding for the first time.<br />
We all went to see the lights at Temple Square.<br />
Lance was able to snowboard for the first time in 8 years (and only ran into one tree!) <br />
<br />
It was amazing to have so much uninterrupted family time. The kids were in heaven with aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins. We relaxed and did whatever we wanted.<br />
<br />
The only drawback: it was freezing cold and snowy. Everyday. As
much fun as we had, it was a relief to get back to the South where
single digits temps are unheard of.<br />
<br />
Some of my favorite pictures from the trip: <br />
<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/AVvXsEiyauRPpsQhsgBEb2XifDxRjvdmrP-PbNrF3G6LwiMDsFxR1zjvlj3BsFHsXkVLHDhw37S1FaPzW0RHKwcX19C9OwEOLNAdWQbj8CuUx9oZAJ_774eY0lH6U1x5bK1LGk2Af25aEDWTOSPf/s1600/049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyauRPpsQhsgBEb2XifDxRjvdmrP-PbNrF3G6LwiMDsFxR1zjvlj3BsFHsXkVLHDhw37S1FaPzW0RHKwcX19C9OwEOLNAdWQbj8CuUx9oZAJ_774eY0lH6U1x5bK1LGk2Af25aEDWTOSPf/s320/049.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Braving the cold at Temple Square in Salt Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></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/AVvXsEhzBLeTVZ8tfw3s1mlbe8RAgs8-NBfgVLDP2lkzUsIsNzVSY_Vk7q7YE5EfphaLrm6YSMTGSUKDT-s_MK49I-Fy-eSWnWjrAqlFJJvUSUj11ruuaPj8AQMHuuQif_uItxw_EEYaUVUYTgYr/s1600/079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzBLeTVZ8tfw3s1mlbe8RAgs8-NBfgVLDP2lkzUsIsNzVSY_Vk7q7YE5EfphaLrm6YSMTGSUKDT-s_MK49I-Fy-eSWnWjrAqlFJJvUSUj11ruuaPj8AQMHuuQif_uItxw_EEYaUVUYTgYr/s320/079.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole Slovacek family</td></tr>
</tbody></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/AVvXsEj1FQbmFQiIBOtUY3me-G-ia6ZxuDBfc1DBGBYwuzg3G3GrCTRvgFX4HzjZLiNmrcectM_F1ofTV5FekKUIwOJ9-Jq8UYUCeS5K6zILQVCTNkXyq2gCKRYuL4kPfhjCBQu33RcF4N0O0PyS/s1600/090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1FQbmFQiIBOtUY3me-G-ia6ZxuDBfc1DBGBYwuzg3G3GrCTRvgFX4HzjZLiNmrcectM_F1ofTV5FekKUIwOJ9-Jq8UYUCeS5K6zILQVCTNkXyq2gCKRYuL4kPfhjCBQu33RcF4N0O0PyS/s320/090.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite pictures of all time</td></tr>
</tbody></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/AVvXsEhR-znpmZGbPtEwOyR7G-zW1nZUn_N89okdHG0HcYcOakPEaJ62mlYI3IlJxnFBWbaqFSsZgQJFs0U0ndyqxYYPrTyvMNyJcyNXobVqfaxwdbmb0CVQUyYw6ugbELl5fB4PPqlef7_7AMp0/s1600/109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-znpmZGbPtEwOyR7G-zW1nZUn_N89okdHG0HcYcOakPEaJ62mlYI3IlJxnFBWbaqFSsZgQJFs0U0ndyqxYYPrTyvMNyJcyNXobVqfaxwdbmb0CVQUyYw6ugbELl5fB4PPqlef7_7AMp0/s320/109.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoie- all bundles up to go sledding</td></tr>
</tbody></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/AVvXsEi9u_sHmPLqRlVXdOVpfvCt83akU09t7oVcPgtZPRVigq-fryLKpJE4sG3W_aANQLzb4z0fCf4p5gBikZr4iHZ3wP86KqO5WAkK4QNqRYSKZ7Qk4gwTw-K32t3xUKCKjg5bUvd9VNMKQcSa/s1600/105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9u_sHmPLqRlVXdOVpfvCt83akU09t7oVcPgtZPRVigq-fryLKpJE4sG3W_aANQLzb4z0fCf4p5gBikZr4iHZ3wP86KqO5WAkK4QNqRYSKZ7Qk4gwTw-K32t3xUKCKjg5bUvd9VNMKQcSa/s320/105.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys-- sledding</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamest little snowman ever</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-SOz1fz6vTvpWhqAojtnm1tMMqKRVNLCO2rSuXoNH1czY4XxvWwRuyn8TWZa_vP89lL9hu23aEBjQ_SU4pkfk96PRjXHjCDogMWJVu4R-W2DC1TMG_1kCi4lLk-PM_IuhA0RFYrxERDS/s1600/20121227_125021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-SOz1fz6vTvpWhqAojtnm1tMMqKRVNLCO2rSuXoNH1czY4XxvWwRuyn8TWZa_vP89lL9hu23aEBjQ_SU4pkfk96PRjXHjCDogMWJVu4R-W2DC1TMG_1kCi4lLk-PM_IuhA0RFYrxERDS/s320/20121227_125021.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch with my old roomies</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids loved helping at Papa's restaurant</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Future busboy</td></tr>
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<br /><br />Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-1320179594557698932013-01-08T18:43:00.000-05:002013-01-08T18:43:26.326-05:00The DriveTo celebrate Christmas with our families and attend Matthew's wedding, we drove to Utah. From Texas. <b>We <i>DROVE</i> from Texas to Utah</b>. And back. 23 hours <i>each way</i>. Once a family gets so big, airplane trips become a limited experience.<br />
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<b>The Car: </b><br />
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Thank goodness for Barbara-- our recently acquired minivan. (I always swore I would never drive a minivan. There's a whole story behind this purchase). She was a trooper-- great gas mileage and comfortable. The dvd player and XM radio proved crucial to the success of the trip. <br />
Poor Barbara is a southern automobile, though. After a few days in the driveway in freezing Utah temperatures, she refused to run until we made room for her in my parents' garage. I can totally relate.<br />
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<b>The Kids: </b><br />
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I was terrified of this drive. My fears were unwarranted. The kids were fantastic. They quietly watched movies the WHOLE time and never asked for unscheduled bathroom breaks (although the boys did make a few "side of the road" stops). One surprising fact: the kids did not sleep. We had to finally force them to close their eyes and nap.<br />
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<b>The Route:</b><br />
Funny story. I was so careful about avoiding winter storms and snowy weather that I had mapped out the trip using the southern route. Somewhere around Trinidad, Colorado I realized that we were, in fact, not following the route I had intended. Lance blames me for this, although all blame is clearly to be heaped upon my gps.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid05K_Z7RFQHULAUye2AJBRhx4y5RjsuP_62di5SB4lAxipg9fwisVrsigpG6CIY4VFJwUKNFf1C6OtOGh6VbJMB8iCOApDjHwp5cdhLU9_Z_-N8KVRzcSOGiBXcLDdfSKcKpLS7FdFHjw/s1600/20121221_071859.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid05K_Z7RFQHULAUye2AJBRhx4y5RjsuP_62di5SB4lAxipg9fwisVrsigpG6CIY4VFJwUKNFf1C6OtOGh6VbJMB8iCOApDjHwp5cdhLU9_Z_-N8KVRzcSOGiBXcLDdfSKcKpLS7FdFHjw/s320/20121221_071859.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard to tell, but the road was completely iced over</td></tr>
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The second day of the trip was driven almost entirely on ice-laden cliffs. This may be a slight exaggeration-- but not much. Since I wasn't driving, it was kind of amazing. We got a very early start and saw the sunrise over the canyons. We saw elk, deer, and wild horses. We wound our way around a (practically) uninhabited highway through the Rocky Mountains, passing weird little towns. Looking back, it was not the ideal route-- but it was a pretty cool day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVcowuDj6mmcFQmsiR_NrMlbGIyi-YNogA7SHM7cnmJmwoCWLMW9H1I90TBQIAPOWG5G-XIWN0zckRsC9wqfr_RRmqR4gJtaJ1MY4T8XDIa7Ibc2uPJ6vHv66y3-Fj8-VUcQZIcxdAYik/s1600/20121221_063742.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVcowuDj6mmcFQmsiR_NrMlbGIyi-YNogA7SHM7cnmJmwoCWLMW9H1I90TBQIAPOWG5G-XIWN0zckRsC9wqfr_RRmqR4gJtaJ1MY4T8XDIa7Ibc2uPJ6vHv66y3-Fj8-VUcQZIcxdAYik/s320/20121221_063742.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild elk in Colorado<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/AVvXsEhAvgnG_shclVZCktBGRBlvoyQWh9NAqI6Zor9oVacBVzC2NZB9hWspm3d5PuugG8COIO9yvHy8-rdBPNxh9QxC9nNncrUO3GVmd3fsQVQvV8bg46XQRdigARHZ6K1Y5j3t3MxhVVHtIEgT/s1600/20121230_120046.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvgnG_shclVZCktBGRBlvoyQWh9NAqI6Zor9oVacBVzC2NZB9hWspm3d5PuugG8COIO9yvHy8-rdBPNxh9QxC9nNncrUO3GVmd3fsQVQvV8bg46XQRdigARHZ6K1Y5j3t3MxhVVHtIEgT/s320/20121230_120046.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We drove through Arches National Park on the way home</td></tr>
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On the way home, we carefully avoided icy cliffs. We drove through New Mexico (which is a very creepy place. Yes, I realize that I have made a generalization about an entire state. I stand by it). The snow that frequented Utah chased us all the way to Dallas-- where it turned into torrential rain. Needless to say, Lance did almost all of the driving on the way home.<br />
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<b>In Summary:</b><br />
The drive was surprisingly great. I would definitely do it again.Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-24037855886961429302013-01-08T18:05:00.000-05:002013-01-08T18:05:23.169-05:00Matthew and TiffanyMy youngest brother Matthew was married on December 22nd. It kind of made me feel old to watch my youngest sibling get married. But it was an awesome event. Matthew could not have found a more perfect wife for himself. Tiffany is great and she is crazy about my nerdy little brother. We were so happy to be able to be there with the entire Slovacek family for the event.<br />
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There were many, many sealings that took place on that day at the Salt Lake City Temple. But I can promise you with absolute certainty that no photography session was met with more irreverence and gut-busting laughter than the Slovacek session. It was pretty fun. Here are some of the results:<br />
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Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-31598454155073417802013-01-08T17:43:00.000-05:002013-01-08T17:43:10.156-05:00Thanksgiving: A Look BackIn an effort to be a responsible journalist, I am going to document our Thanksgiving-- even though it is well into January.<br />
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Thanksgiving 2012 was a simple affair. My little brother Steven flew in from New York to spend the weekend with us. Its always a party with Steve in the house! <br />
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Actually, the kids were little monsters the whole time he was here. I am fairly certain we scared him away from ever wanting kids. Here is a picture of Uncle Steve and the monsters at the Houston Zoo:<br />
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This year was my first time attempting the entire Thanksgiving dinner-- turkey and all. We found a great recipe for bacon wrapped turkey. It wasn't as good as fried turkey (which is what we are used to)-- but it was good. However, the turkey took up so much time and effort, we decided to forgo turkey next year. I like ham.<br />
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We spent the day watching the Texans play and eating. It was a good day. We have so much to be grateful for in 2012. We love living in Texas. Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-39909239431290736712012-12-19T16:11:00.000-05:002012-12-19T16:11:25.024-05:00ExplanationI try to get some pictures of the family, or at least the kids, during the holiday season. We never got around to having a picture taken for our 2012 Christmas cards, but I <i>have</i> been busily snapping pictures as we do fun winter activities. I have not posted them here, or Facebook, or Instagram because of my youngest son. See if you can spot a trend:<br />
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<b>At the Giant Christmas Tree in The Woodlands:</b><br />
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<b>At Santa's Farm:</b><br />
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<b>At the Ward Christmas Party:</b><br />
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This kid ruins all the pictures. In many of them, he's saying cheese... while jumping, running, or facing the wrong way. And in others...<br />
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Oh well, Merry Christmas!Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-77315269721678082912012-11-05T20:44:00.000-05:002012-11-05T20:44:01.093-05:003 Superheros and A Dancer<div style="text-align: center;">
This was our first year doing traditional trick or treating with the kids. I thought I would tire of chasing the kids as they trolled the neighbors for candy. I was wrong. It was awesome. Poor Slappy had blisters all over his feet by the end of the night. I am not surprised that he didn't complain until the evening's end. Running outside with wild abandon... with friends... in costume... ringing doorbells... getting candy. Its like a dream come true for the kid.</div>
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Lance couldn't very well let the kids have all the costume fun-</div>
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Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-18628773396242526842012-10-23T14:01:00.001-04:002012-10-23T14:01:29.647-04:0010 Things Every Woman Should Have<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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In Allure magazine this month, Oscar de la Renta made a list of 10 things every woman should have. I usually just scan through the magazine for perfume samples-- but I stopped and read this article to see how I measure up.<br />
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1. <b>A Great Romance.</b> Check.<br />
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2. <b>Face-framing Earrings</b>. Done. NOBODY does big earrings like I do. <br />
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3. <b> A Small Bag</b>. Ok, I take exception with this one. Clearly, the women in Oscar de la Renta's life are not toting around three small children. In my mind, the bigger the bag, the better. Even with no need for diapers anymore, I am still responsible for snacks, toys, wipes, hand sanitizer, bug spray etc. I'll run out and get a small bag on the same day I buy myself a small car.<br />
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4. <b>Black Lace.</b> I bought this great skirt from Target a few weeks ago. Love it. <br />
<img alt="Xhilaration® Juniors Lace Skirt - Assorted Colors " class="photo" height="320" id="heroImage" itemprop="image" src="http://Img2.targetimg2.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/14/18/14187694_120717043000.jpg" width="320" /> <br />
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5. <b>A confident walk</b>. Um... that's weird. I'll work on that one.<br />
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6. <b>A cause to support</b>. This is a great one. Mine is education... and family issues. Everyone should have something they are passionate about.<br />
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7. <b> Red carnations</b>. "a deep, deep red". Another weird one. But carnations are cheap-- so maybe I will work on this one too.<br />
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8. <b>A significant scent</b>. I don't have a signature scent. As I mentioned before, I love "Falling in Love" by Philosophy, but I don't wear it everyday. I have about 20 different perfumes and body sprays I rotate through-- depending on the occasion. Maybe I should commit to one for a while. (For the record, for years I never wore anything but "Flowering Herbs" from Bath and Body Works).<br />
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9. <b>Very tall shoes</b>. I own this one! A few months ago, the missionaries in my ward asked me to stop wearing such tall heels because I made all the Elders look short. But I married a man that is 6'4-- I am free to wear any size heel I want! I love it!<br />
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10. <b> A competitive streak</b>. I have always been competitive-- but the streak has died down over the past 5 years or so. It took me nearly 30 years to realize that I am not very good at anything!Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-36135435718575002692012-10-17T18:18:00.002-04:002012-10-17T18:18:48.515-04:00Some Light Reading<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0pk5x7qFU1zJPCUfy8Eds9S7iVNfaqsKplg_e3VgZX8NR5Kahi78VstUj4CYf1Nrx9tyJzsQL46Y_jfMUruEzSIO30OlOpnh0Ijy4MiRt57BSnCoXAukKkvizZUqvOEHc8c9F3sUZXob/s1600/mindy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>I had a few weeks in between semesters at school. I decided to indulge in my favorite past time-- reading mindless drivel! 10 years ago, I was a history major at BYU and had to read so many heavy, tedious texts that it became a treat to read some Nicholas Sparks and Danielle Steel (gag) in between semesters. Sadly, this became a habit.<br />
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So, with my precious two weeks of freedom from insipid education textbooks, I indulged in the following:<br />
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<i>Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me</i> by Mindy Kaling<br />
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I stumbled across this book at Target and laughed so hard at the Introduction that I had to buy it. It did not disappoint. Mindy is hilarious and easy to relate to. She really hits her high in the first 4-5 chapters of the book. After that, it gets a bit slow. But those first chapters are so funny that its still one of my favorite new books. (Beware, there is some language)<br />
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<i>The Art of Racing in the Rain</i> by Garth Stein<br />
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This book isn't as mindless as I generally prefer. A friend told me that the book was written from the point of view of the family dog and I knew I just had to read it. It is good-- not great. Its a bit sad and heavy at times-- but overall a well-written story.<br />
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<i>Now You See Her</i> by James Patterson<br />
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This is James Patterson at his absolute best! I have read just about every James Patterson book ever written (except for his young adult books) and I still did not know how this was going to end. LOVED it! (Again-- some language)<br />
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<i>Crossed</i> by Ally Condie<br />
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I had forgotten that I had read the first book in this series, "Matched". The sequel is pretty good. To be honest, it is not that different from all of the other post-apocalypse utopian young adult novels (Hunger Games, Pretties, The Giver, etc). Intriguing, easy read.<br />
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<i>Picture Perfect</i> by Jodi Picoult<br />
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Picoult is a good writer-- but kind of bugs me sometimes. This is an interesting story-- but not an amazing book. Her other books are better.<br />
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Now I'm back in school. And instead of these delightfully shallow reads, you can find me scouring the pages of this:<br />
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<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="225" data-width="225" height="225" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQrgLQ0Ex8C-XGr-oUD71XXSNoMErhMEUbkVbikXBjy_9EWRH4Q" style="height: 225px; width: 225px;" width="225" />Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-55728675128144146812012-09-24T15:35:00.000-04:002012-09-24T15:35:25.289-04:00Product EndorsementBefore I turned 30, I never worried about beauty products. Don't misunderstand me, I indulged in makeup and hair treatments plenty-- but I never really paid too much attention to brands and regiments. The older I get, the more effort and maintenance is required to look (at least semi) attractive. I don't like it. I've always considered myself to be low-maintenance. But I have found a few products that I really love.<br />
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<b>Glow, by Hard Candy.</b><br />
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I read a magazine article written by Jennifer Lopez's makeup artist in Allure. He claims that Jennifer is quite pale and does not have a natural glow about her-- that it is all in the right makeup. I think J. Lo is so beautiful. I was encouraged to read that her luminous beauty is, in large part, a result of the right makeup regimen.<br />
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I am fortunate to have lived in places that allow me to swim and soak up the sun regularly for 7-8 months out of the year. I love being tan and haven't had to "fake bake" in a very long time. But I have found my solution for the winter months. Glow is a bronzer that enhances a tan and produces a "natural glow". I love it. I bought a large bottle at Walmart (classy, I know) months ago and it is still going strong.<br />
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<b>Essie Nail Polish</b><br />
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My sister introduced me to Essie. I love it. I rarely paint my fingernails because the polish chips too easily. The only polish I will use on my fingers is Essie. The colors are so subtle and gorgeous. I recently bought the color "Master Plan" (see picture above). Lance calls my nails, "Primer nails"-- but I get a ton of compliments when I wear it.<br />
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<b>Philosophy, Falling in Love</b><br />
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I first discovered this scent while shopping in Fresno in 2007. I have been obsessed with it for five years now. I don't buy it very often (I am prone to cheap perfume knock-offs and haven't found one for Falling in Love yet). Lance bought me a bottle of Falling in Love, Summer for our anniversary a few months ago. Love it.<br />
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What I need are some recommendations for 1. <i>skin care </i>(I have never put much effort into my skin at all. But now that I am over 30, I figure I better start doing something) and 2.<i> mascara</i> I feel as though I have tried every conceivable mascara out there. I have made a hobby of it. But I am still looking for one mascara product that "wows" me. So... speak up and tell me what your products are!Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-89427981558153986892012-09-17T11:22:00.001-04:002012-09-17T11:22:40.893-04:00Slappy's 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Chase didn't seem to have much concept of birthday celebrations. I spent all last week telling him about cake and presents and singing "Happy Birthday". It must have worked because I woke up yesterday with Chase by my bed saying "Its my happy birthday! Cake! Presents!" (Ahhhh... another birthday diva is created!)<br />
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We were low-key with this one (read: lazy). Family party after church. Boring store-bought cake. I usually spring for one of the decorated, custom-made cakes at the bakery. I had this one in mind: <br />
<img alt="Superman & Friends" height="200" src="http://www.publix.com/managed_images/2012/superman_400.jpg" width="200" /><br />
This is what we ended up with. Lazy, but Chase loved it.<br />
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The kid cleaned up with superhero toys. He's in heaven.<br />
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Am I sad that my youngest is already 3? Nope. I am ecstatic. I love this kid-- its fun to see him growing up.<br />
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I took this video for Lance's parents. It was too big to send via email, so I am posting it here. Its probably boring for the rest of you. <br />
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Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-28862200817514888232012-09-12T13:31:00.000-04:002012-09-12T13:31:02.768-04:00For the Last TimeI am potty training this week. For the last time. This has become my mantra- "This is the last time I will ever have to do this." Repeated over and over again-- in my head and out loud. (Well, that and "potty training is for sucks". I say that a lot too.)<br />
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Actually, Chase hasn't been that bad. For starters, he and I are alone from 7:30 until 4:15 every day. He gets way more personal attention than Zoie and Tobin ever did at this age. Also, Slappy will be 3 this Sunday. His "advanced" age have made this (relatively) painless. And I am really not nearly as busy as I would have been if I were still living in Florida (read: not much social life). I'm kind of enjoying that part.<br />
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Slappy has always been a challenging kid-- mostly due to his stubborn, loud personality. But with all of this "alone" time that he and I have every day, I'm developing quite a soft spot for the kid. I don't even mind (much) asking him in a happy, excited voice 10X an hour, "Want to go potty?" <br />
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For the last time. <i>Ever</i>.Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-77799379280661676892012-08-28T14:54:00.001-04:002012-08-28T14:54:24.256-04:00On Being a Mom... Views From a CynicThis post contains no parenting advice. I could never pretend to have cracked the parenting code. I am not sure that I will ever be qualified to advise anyone on the great challenge of parenting.<br />
<br />
Rather, this post is aimed at moms in social settings. Most moms have some sort of "mom support"-- a play group, some random people at the local park, even an online forum. I have had plenty of experience with these social situations, so here is a word to the wise: If you find yourself ostracized from play dates and park get-togethers, perhaps you have broken one of these cardinal rules...<br />
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSRfzQEP2NKmB6Ra0UNsiy489miXuaOvExg9qlZFFlym4Hizs0h7g" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
1. <b> Be honest about your kids. Brag about your kids and complain about your kids. But do both.</b> This rule has no exceptions. <br />
Don't be the cranky mom who is constantly whining about the horrors of motherhood. You make us laugh and we can all sympathize, but then you are a drag and we start to feel sorry for your husband and kids. <br />
And please, please don't be the Mom who is shamelessly bragging non-stop about how her 6 month-old knows the alphabet and balances the budget. We are impressed with the occasional achievement-- we roll our eyes and stop believing you with constant bragging. If you really can't find anything to say that is not glowing and positive, then at least humor the rest of us with a generic comment like:<br />
"It definitely takes patience to be a Mom", or "My kid sure does wear me out sometimes". <br />
You get the idea. Be real. Being a mom is amazing... and exhausting. Find a balance.<br />
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTcBB-neEFEuX-WGFZ6n8mUXEZ7A000-h975HZPjA4q2LcW7S28" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="188" data-width="269" height="188" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSRfzQEP2NKmB6Ra0UNsiy489miXuaOvExg9qlZFFlym4Hizs0h7g" style="height: 188px; width: 269px;" width="269" /></a><br />
2. <b>Don't ever refer to yourself as a "Mommy". </b>Unless you are using a direct quote from your child, the word "Mommy" really should never pass your lips. Its not cute. Its akin to baby talk (which is also not cute). You are not a stay-at-home "mommy". You are a stay-at-home mom. You do not love being a "mommy". You love being a mom. Please get it right. The next time you get an urge to refer to yourself (while speaking to another adult) as a "mommy"-- stop it.<br />
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTpnuKisfEw02vvKUezV6B7OAbgbrp7N8me99htbkB-22QWeNYQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="80" data-width="240" height="133" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTcBB-neEFEuX-WGFZ6n8mUXEZ7A000-h975HZPjA4q2LcW7S28" style="height: 80px; width: 240px;" width="400" /></a><br />
3. <b>Your kid is not acting out in class because he/ she is so advanced that they are bored.</b>
If I had a dollar for every parent who told me this, I'd be rich. It <b><i>
</i></b><i>is</i> possible to be smart and also well-behaved. If your kid is acting up
in class-- it is not up to the teacher to challenge them more (that is a
separate issue). It is up to your kid to learn how to behave.<br />
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTpnuKisfEw02vvKUezV6B7OAbgbrp7N8me99htbkB-22QWeNYQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="192" data-width="262" height="192" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTpnuKisfEw02vvKUezV6B7OAbgbrp7N8me99htbkB-22QWeNYQ" style="height: 192px; width: 262px;" width="262" /></a><br />
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I realize how cynical this sounds. Just a heads-up for new moms finding their footing in social situations. You are welcome.Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-69082486059694140372012-08-27T10:52:00.000-04:002012-08-27T10:52:06.841-04:00School 2012First day of school! The kids (and I) have been looking forward to school starting ever since we moved here. They both love school-- let's hope that continues...<br />
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This will mark the first time that the kids are able to take a bus. They were so excited and nervous about this. I am mostly just excited. No more long drop-off/pick-up lines for me! And their bus stop is only one house away.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cute school kids<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Kindergarten Boy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standard Zoie pose (She's 7... what can you do?)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd Grade Girl</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase trying to get in on the act</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Boys</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So happy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGX7AzjeQ7akhxnNYPbHvCbgSCfFGrSIHwTullJgxzvHceiKWM9RDRbeKOIy8TUqyiBq1-i7RymBLFWproW060Ak-N4L95xd-hWQuFu_Qy2pilAMOsn4bKnnronEbyDzKXPq3Ha-42-5kY/s1600/August+2012+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGX7AzjeQ7akhxnNYPbHvCbgSCfFGrSIHwTullJgxzvHceiKWM9RDRbeKOIy8TUqyiBq1-i7RymBLFWproW060Ak-N4L95xd-hWQuFu_Qy2pilAMOsn4bKnnronEbyDzKXPq3Ha-42-5kY/s320/August+2012+022.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting at the bus stop</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCIZoSCPSuGgcFnN6VzaaksaJEk4YaPrle8U5ASCNoYCWTNlbd6Shc_dDRJGvoQMAIvXtcGAzTtueTd3d_2FyhfKQb8z53FYbFl8Ue1TvnejgOzd_IEHYWFr317QjtjeP0jJEwo4Md_bd/s1600/August+2012+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCIZoSCPSuGgcFnN6VzaaksaJEk4YaPrle8U5ASCNoYCWTNlbd6Shc_dDRJGvoQMAIvXtcGAzTtueTd3d_2FyhfKQb8z53FYbFl8Ue1TvnejgOzd_IEHYWFr317QjtjeP0jJEwo4Md_bd/s320/August+2012+023.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And waiting...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QRBwGj23qkvnxB5yVqaL_6e8PBaTWOgDuQNBzbsQGsvGPwZ4_G62kT5oIP2Wy6sRBq6u3VP20ggqnlLKUxBypfmT3h9Yw7EEFjMWPy1VJW6X2w9X50oJbNj6bz8svwxada7o7o_2DidY/s1600/August+2012+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QRBwGj23qkvnxB5yVqaL_6e8PBaTWOgDuQNBzbsQGsvGPwZ4_G62kT5oIP2Wy6sRBq6u3VP20ggqnlLKUxBypfmT3h9Yw7EEFjMWPy1VJW6X2w9X50oJbNj6bz8svwxada7o7o_2DidY/s320/August+2012+024.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And waiting...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigY3TTzRn70-nCgoW4aY5126DjoFkwqMKsLmydvwY2CIpZEmLpcXaEVehAJiXTx3xo6asTn5DY-iVrx-rZU9GP7g0WBn6PgFgAufUJzNMyUFNPc3andLkmLcIm-VmjZdDhquDqvHV5hyphenhyphennU/s1600/August+2012+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigY3TTzRn70-nCgoW4aY5126DjoFkwqMKsLmydvwY2CIpZEmLpcXaEVehAJiXTx3xo6asTn5DY-iVrx-rZU9GP7g0WBn6PgFgAufUJzNMyUFNPc3andLkmLcIm-VmjZdDhquDqvHV5hyphenhyphennU/s320/August+2012+028.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At last!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3m76wsnavgVuPOcxqOW3lRrLL9H0ISwFdk6-XgMELaoSChugFmUmS9AR-OALewtT4W7ovtEgEDSK9karB2w6BkkF3ml6xF6kJpHOrDPvPvl5PehqMEU0GAtWhZPhPCMiv5ZudyVDu0B5/s1600/August+2012+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3m76wsnavgVuPOcxqOW3lRrLL9H0ISwFdk6-XgMELaoSChugFmUmS9AR-OALewtT4W7ovtEgEDSK9karB2w6BkkF3ml6xF6kJpHOrDPvPvl5PehqMEU0GAtWhZPhPCMiv5ZudyVDu0B5/s320/August+2012+030.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A moment of separation anxiety</td></tr>
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Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-91502769205109831742012-08-16T18:27:00.000-04:002012-08-16T18:27:23.788-04:00Rasmussen Family AdventuresThe first thing we noticed about Kingwood (the city we live in) are all the trails that run through the trees that are EVERYWHERE in the town (recall: Kingwood is called the "livable forest"). Lance and I said, "Wouldn't it be fun to go on family bike rides through the forest?" We agreed that it would.<br />
<br />
And so we do. We quickly taught Tobin to ride without training wheels. We bought cheap bikes from Wal-mart and a trailer for Slappy. And now we engage in "Rasmussen Family Adventures" several times a week. (That is literally what we call it. I don't even think we've referred to it as a "bike ride" yet).<br />
<br />
Since we ride through the forest, its not too hot (relatively speaking-- It IS August in Texas, after all). There are 75 miles of trails through Kingwood, so come across parks and playgrounds fairly regularly. We always stop and play and bring snacks and drinks. We even found a large turtle population that we like to throw crackers at from the bridge. Its our favorite thing.<br />
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I love my old lady beach cruiser. Lance looks hot toting the baby trailer behind his mountain bike. We've become "that" dorky family. Still... its so much fun. It'll be even better in the winter. <br />
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The only pictures I captured were of Zoie on the move, so here they are (above). I may include a few stock photos (below).<br />
<img height="419" id="il_fi" src="http://kingwoodserviceassociation.org/kingwoodservice/picture/east-end-photos.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="540" />Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-77602794659257413072012-08-15T18:11:00.000-04:002012-08-15T18:11:24.711-04:00Another Random ListWhenever I don't really feel like writing anything of any kind of significance, I make a list instead. This particular list is of things I hate. I am generally a pretty positive person. This type of negativity is a bit out of character-- but people who don't posses strong feelings of any kind are boring. So, without further ado:<br />
<br />
Things I hate:<br />
<ol>
<li>UF Gators</li>
<li>Holding my breath</li>
<li>Any professional sports team from Pittsburgh</li>
<li>Country music and Heavy Metal</li>
<li>R. Kelly</li>
<li>Generic, unfunny sitcoms that are inexplicably popular (Two and a Half Men, Big Bang Theory, etc.)</li>
<li>Being tickled</li>
<li>A messy kitchen</li>
<li>Insincerity</li>
<li>Being pale</li>
</ol>
Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-22422766103925382582012-08-07T14:10:00.000-04:002012-08-07T14:10:52.893-04:00Life with a CatI feel the need to say, first and foremost, that I am not a cat person. I have never had a cat. I swore that I would NEVER own a cat. It would not be much of a stretch to say that I have always hated cats. There is a definite stigma attached to "cat people". <br />
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But I have a cat now. How did this happen? I love animals-- in particular, dogs. We are not in a position to have a dog since we are renting our current house. I am also not in a position to want the work and expense associated with a dog. But we love being pet owners and wanted to teach the kids some responsibility. So... a cat. <br />
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It was free. It was a rescue kitten. The food, litter, and toys, etc. cost us all of $8. Can't argue with that. So, it has been a month now. How is life with a cat?<br />
<br />
<b>The Pros:</b><br />
<br />
The cat is easy. We scratched its little paws in the litter box on the first day and he has never had an accident. We leave food and water out each morning. We can leave him for hours (even days!) at a time and we do not come home to any surprise messes or disasters. There is no shedding.<br />
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He is cuddly. He curls up on our laps each night and falls asleep. Even supposed "cat haters" love this.<br />
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The kids and Lance take care of him. They clean the litter box. They feed him. I am responsibility-free.<br />
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He is playful. Its pretty funny to watch him play with his toys. Like I said, I love animals.<br />
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<b>The Cons:</b><br />
<br />
Lack of unique personality. I'm used to dogs, who exude personality. Thibodeaux does not seem all that unique-- just a cute cat.<br />
<br />
Lack of loyalty. He does not always greet us at the door. He doesn't always come to us when we call him. He really doesn't seem to know (or care) about his name. Maybe its because I always call him "Cat".<br />
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Lack of discipline. He's really well behaved-- but on the few occasions in which he has done something undesirable (climbed on table, nipped at us, etc.) he doesn't seem to respond to any reprimands. Kinda frustrating.<br />
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<b>The Bottom Line:</b> I remain a dog person. I adore dogs and their funny personalities. However, if you are looking for a low-maintenance, easy pet-- you can't beat a cat. I like Thibodeaux.<br />
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Here are a few Cat pictures: <br />
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<br />Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-23346444182848184242012-08-03T10:35:00.001-04:002012-08-07T13:22:47.039-04:00Eleven Years<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You're still the one who makes me laugh</div>
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Still the one that's my better half<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></div>
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You're still the one that makes me strong<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></div>
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Still the one I want to take along<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></div>
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We're still having fun<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></div>
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And you're still the one...<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></div>Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-112510876236424912012-08-01T18:18:00.000-04:002012-08-01T18:18:29.904-04:00QuitterIt seems I have developed a habit of quitting things, as of late:<br /><ul>
<li><i>I quit my quest for blonde-hood</i>. It was ugly and expensive. I was still several months (and hundreds of dollars) away from achieving the desired color. So, I bought a $7 bottle of black hair dye. I feel better already. </li>
<li><i>I quit potty training</i>. I attempted potty training with Chase last week. He's not ready. He doesn't seem to understand why/ how he gets wet. He has no concept of "pee-pee". This is exactly what happened with Tobin. I'll try again around his 3rd birthday (September). It should only take 2-3 days.</li>
<li><i>I quit my diet plan. </i> I tried a hcg diet a few weeks ago. Following its instructions perfectly, I was eating 337 calories per day. I was cranky, head-achy, and generally a miserable person. I think my whole family was relieved when I quit.</li>
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I am still enrolled in school. I am taking a very interesting Education and the Law course. Education is a very, very boring major-- so anytime, I find interest in a class its a big deal. I am getting anxious to be done with my Master's program. I am considering doubling up on my course load in order to finish in a year.<br />
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I am still doing P90x with Lance. Look out world, here comes Buff Kira.<br />
<br />Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-46242714482562218892012-07-16T20:00:00.000-04:002012-07-16T20:00:55.472-04:00Texas Living<br />
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Parks and swimming pools are plenty. We go to one or the other... or both nearly every day. People who move to Houston from almost anywhere else probably think the humidity here is insane. Coming from Florida-- its not too bad. <br />
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We go down to Katy sometimes to visit the Filettis. Last time, we were able to ride some horses. The kids were naturals. I was the one freaking out when the horse picked up its pace.<br />
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Before we met many people here, I was taking the kids to various libraries in the area. This is a snake presentation we attended. <br />
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So, why aren't there any pictures of me? This is why. Texas Kira is ugly. Being a stress eater, the past couple of months have not been kind to my girlish figure. Also, I got this brilliant idea that "Texas Kira" will be a blonde! When my regular hairdresser refused to help in the transformation, I really should have given up the Marilyn dream. But, no. When I get something in my dumb head, I have trouble letting it go. So, I went to the mall and the stylist there proceeded to massacre my hair. It ended up being brittle and ... orange. So, until I get "Texas Kira" under control, picture this:<br />
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Why aren't there are pictures of Lance? Don't worry. Texas Lance is as hot as ever. He just hates having his picture taken.Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555249435994431479.post-36668831220257259352012-07-12T17:31:00.000-04:002012-07-12T17:31:01.656-04:00Hell Has Frozen Over<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sergeant Thibodaux</span></h2>
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<br />Kirahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01726659468525426698noreply@blogger.com3