tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36293550656039905502024-03-21T04:16:43.940-07:00Diary of an Everyday GirlEveryday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-76072455971608431002015-10-13T17:27:00.001-07:002015-10-13T17:27:21.842-07:00Bucket List - 40 Before 40Several years ago, I wrote a short, "Bucket List". Some of the items on it were goal and some were experiences I would like to have. I had a major health scare this summer, and I returned to my list to see what I'd checked off and expand on it. <br />
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1. <strike>Run a Half Marathon </strike>February 2015 Princess Half Marathon<br />
2. <strike>Run a 10k February</strike> 2015 Enchanted 10k<br />
3. <strike>Complete a runDisney challenge </strike>February 2015 Glass Slipper Challenge<br />
4. <strike>Visit Walt Disney World with my family</strike> February 2015<br />
5. <strike>Take a weekend get-away with my husband once a year</strike> March 2014 & April 2015 Banff ,AB<br />
6. Continue my education - I would like to complete my University degree using distance education **I am working towards this goal and have completed one glass<br />
7. Run a marathon<br />
8. Run a race in Toronto's Scotiabank Waterfront race weekend<br />
9. Take my sons to visit Dr. Greg Ryan with a donation for Mount Sinai's high-risk pregnancy program (the Doctor who performed the surgery that saved my sons life)<br />
10. Attend a Toronto Blue Jays MLB game<br />
11. Visit Prince Edward Island and Green Gables<br />
12. Earn my runDisney Coast to Coast medal <br />
13. Volunteer with a nation wide charity <br />
14. Write more on my blog/continue to make online connections<br />
15. Create and chair an event in my community to raise funds for a non-profit organization <br />
16.<strike> Run a raise for a charity</strike> February 2015 Glass Slipper Challenge for Chilren's Miracle Network<br />
17. Visit Nashville<br />
18. Host/create a 5k race in my community <br />
19. Get a dog for my children <br />
20. Visit the west coast of Canada (Vancouver or Victoria)<br />
21. Travel to Hawaii (preferably Aulani :))<br />
22. <strike>Visit the mountains</strike> Banff, AB<br />
23. Try skiing again<br />
24. Take a family vacation in the summer - This is sort-of done because we did take a bit of a vacation this summer, but I'm not going to count it<br />
25. Spend a day at a spa<br />
26. <strike>Design/build a deck for my backyard</strike><br />
27. Connect with other bloggers from my province/surrounding provinces<br />
28. Attend a blogging conference in Canada<br />
29. Explore the idea of pubic speaking<br />
30. Work on self-development<br />
31. Show appreciation for friends and family around me each day<br />
32. <strike>Coach my children's ball team/begin a ball team in my community</strike> Started a team and coached 2014 & 2015<br />
33. Write a letter to each of my children to give them when they turn 18<br />
34. Visit New York City <br />
35. Run a race in New York City <br />
36. <strike>Run a 5k with my daughter </strike>CIBC Run for the Cure October 2014<br />
37. Run a Disney 5k with my daughter<br />
38. Run a Disney 5k with my husband and all three children<br />
39. Run a Disney 5k with my husband while on a "adult-only" trip<br />
40. <br />
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I know I <strike>may not</strike> probably won't do all this things before I turn 40, but I would like to try. I am 34 now, and have already crossed many items off the list (because I wrote it a few years ago). I may not get all the items completed, but if I set a goal to do so, I will certainly come closer than otherwise. For some reason, I can't come up with #40....I suppose that means it will stay blank until I find something else I would really like to see/do. The other reason I would like to attempt to this all before 40; because we never really know how long we have. I don't want to take my list of things I would like to see and constantly put them off. My health scare taught me that we never know what will happen and we need to live for each day. <br />
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<em>Question of the Day: Do you have a bucket list? </em>Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-14039579042762836652015-10-06T18:21:00.000-07:002015-10-06T18:21:53.801-07:00Random Acts of KindnessIn August I spent 10 days at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatchewan. It felt like a really long time. While there, I was so appreciate of the amazing, professional staff who helped treat me. I switched rooms three times and was placed on two different wards and don't have a negative thing to say about anyone who cared for me. But, that being said, there was one nurse who went above and beyond duty. She was kind, compassionate, and advocated for me. She made me laugh at the times when I needed it the most and did everything in her power to make my stay more comfortable. When the Doctors hadn't stopped to see me with results from a test, she would call them. She offered me support and comforting words at the most critical times. I was truly grateful for her presence but wasn't sure how to properly say thank you. <br />
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Yesterday, I was back at RUH to do tests and meet a lung specialist. I had several hours of waiting and decided to do some Random Acts of Kindness, one in honour of each of my children. I picked up three $10 gift cards to Starbucks (which is on the main level of the hospital). I immediately remembered Dominique, and how amazing she was to me, so decided to deliver one gift card up to the Oncology ward where she worked. I wrote on the other two cards and tried to decide how to give them out. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjft3WL00uTr59QU8s5zZU_QEmBTYYqi2LOKrM6rK_aR98O91c1D_Ebts5x6cvQIFm_6jxIFAgui6eZ9mbe-JD4tO69UVT4Wr18PgX6_xmakNVb2z9crHURFqv2nxA33HgDeudx4O6AwH7N/s1600/IMG_0395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjft3WL00uTr59QU8s5zZU_QEmBTYYqi2LOKrM6rK_aR98O91c1D_Ebts5x6cvQIFm_6jxIFAgui6eZ9mbe-JD4tO69UVT4Wr18PgX6_xmakNVb2z9crHURFqv2nxA33HgDeudx4O6AwH7N/s320/IMG_0395.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Oddly, I was feeling a little shy and didn't want to walk up and hand them to people. I am not sure why, but just didn't have it in me. Instead, I stuck them in two random spots on the main "mall" area of the hospital where someone would be guaranteed to see them. I hope they found their way to someone who was having a bad day and brightened it up even a little. After spending time in the hospital, I found that it was very stressful and sometimes the smallest things comforted me. <br />
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There's my most recent Random Act of Kindness. I hope they brighten someone's day and in turn, I hope they pay it forward. Happy Tuesday!! <br />
Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-9708724140149862362015-09-30T13:08:00.000-07:002015-09-30T13:08:02.024-07:00I am StrongToday, I need a reminder that I am strong. I am facing major surgery and am scared. In fact, scared doesn't even begin to describe it, I am terrified beyond words. I feel like I need to focus on the fact that my body and mind are strong and healthy and I can survive this. (As dramatic as that sounds, it really is what I need to focus on) So, today this post is for me, not you. I'm putting it in words so I have a visual reminder. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xb3bCJ1EgqZnxmaeLZ6kY4WtR8rMqGmQGxM_iTmK6Cr2wVIDRS_rnjruUslU6xb9BSEcuNQOkLmxLKPnLRj3a-hbPdjS2dJnVICWkmpIjRAsbGyPXOWk3BTff4xHDaFuv2gsv8bL8YTT/s1600/strong-fearless-wise-quotes-life-sayings-pics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xb3bCJ1EgqZnxmaeLZ6kY4WtR8rMqGmQGxM_iTmK6Cr2wVIDRS_rnjruUslU6xb9BSEcuNQOkLmxLKPnLRj3a-hbPdjS2dJnVICWkmpIjRAsbGyPXOWk3BTff4xHDaFuv2gsv8bL8YTT/s320/strong-fearless-wise-quotes-life-sayings-pics.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://thedailyquotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/strong-fearless-wise-quotes-life-sayings-pics.jpg">http://thedailyquotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/strong-fearless-wise-quotes-life-sayings-pics.jpg</a></td></tr>
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Reasons I Know I Am Strong: <br />
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1. Back in February, I ran a 10k on the Saturday and a Half Marathon on the Sunday. And I toured Walt Disney World the days leading up to the races and the days after. I was putting double digit miles on my legs everyday and I still successfully completed these races under my goal time. In order to run 19.6 miles over two days, I needed a strong body, strong heart, and strong lungs. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZtfNvVz200inBYPdIypThpk1wguBzSr4YgbTW3S25MSbznM082GtTZD-DoAHCmM9JP9tIWMjrSYw8XyLsiSc4wL_pMY1ajoN3BlmjsfTw6dKahnk8uykvN8leRTL0t0PtDcgqzm48BQ8/s1600/248469_186131950_XLarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZtfNvVz200inBYPdIypThpk1wguBzSr4YgbTW3S25MSbznM082GtTZD-DoAHCmM9JP9tIWMjrSYw8XyLsiSc4wL_pMY1ajoN3BlmjsfTw6dKahnk8uykvN8leRTL0t0PtDcgqzm48BQ8/s320/248469_186131950_XLarge.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2015 Glass Slipper Challenge</td></tr>
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2. I am young and healthy. With the exception of my current medical problems (which I'll discuss in a later post) and some pre-existing asthma, I am healthy. I have no heart issues and compared to the average age of people facing this procedure (65-70), I am young and healthy. I really need to focus on this. For some reason, having this illness has made me feel sick and weak. I need to remember that I am not weak, I am healthy and I can get through this. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaMvqmLycZs6ia939h3QBH4h53neR3TdONUF7C_UcdIirjVZXornu-Ib3-CeojTwnddpH43wGRViUW24JnaGvvi5kjnoXeY2tvT-QS4eyOqpCX9Tu7FERC07sBukBt7rOMtylef6fzNC6p/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaMvqmLycZs6ia939h3QBH4h53neR3TdONUF7C_UcdIirjVZXornu-Ib3-CeojTwnddpH43wGRViUW24JnaGvvi5kjnoXeY2tvT-QS4eyOqpCX9Tu7FERC07sBukBt7rOMtylef6fzNC6p/s320/IMG_1556.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">34 years young :)</td></tr>
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3. My body has already done strong and amazing things. I carried my twins full-term through a high-risk pregnancy against all odds. My body is stronger and healthier than even the Doctors thought possible. At 20 weeks pregnant, I found out I was carrying identical twins and they were very sick with a disease called Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome. The next morning, we were sent to Toronto (a 3 hour plane ride away) for emergency surgery to try to save the life of one of our sons (by this point they were sure we would the other one). At Toronto, it was also determined that I had become sick with side effects from the disease and that without immediate surgery or abortion, all of our lives were in jeopardy. I received surgery and waited. Our Doctor in Toronto explained that our babies were still in distress and may not make it but the longer I could carry them, the better chance they would have. He also explained that it was very uncommon for these babies to be carried over 30 weeks. I circled a date on my calendar (36 weeks) and told myself that I would defy the odds and carry until then. In the end, to everyone's amazement, I was induced at 38 weeks and delivered two full-term healthy babies. They were followed up with heart specialists and have faced minor medical problems, but are overall healthy. They are truly a medical miracle. If I wasn't strong and healthy, there is no way my body could have produced these little miracles, and I need to focus on this. I need to remember that our bodies can do amazing things. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_RTqyIED5TpDmEkn2kkJrzJB-7FyZ-skU3seTGM8bPCHHeBrLiqMjQyPmpRqErKJpDR-wrcJHN5DTn9VYbdLE0krIut0RIPVPid8yAcSkaeuu77w1nUt75_qpVTTmtHvSAonFbl5HYZn/s1600/20091020_0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_RTqyIED5TpDmEkn2kkJrzJB-7FyZ-skU3seTGM8bPCHHeBrLiqMjQyPmpRqErKJpDR-wrcJHN5DTn9VYbdLE0krIut0RIPVPid8yAcSkaeuu77w1nUt75_qpVTTmtHvSAonFbl5HYZn/s320/20091020_0365.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto following surgery <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgavmVhnQBIH_YtZECIpyjKOpha_IUpJnSpLS5nxha3nqU0M-yHgnB1qJILIqSrfNw9RkzJOcHwNCwAZNs9btTS1x557h-HgdsFiGjgTYIsuW3PNA6qLuaglZGzzysLpzLbpOFKPE7jxc/s1600/IMG_3887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgavmVhnQBIH_YtZECIpyjKOpha_IUpJnSpLS5nxha3nqU0M-yHgnB1qJILIqSrfNw9RkzJOcHwNCwAZNs9btTS1x557h-HgdsFiGjgTYIsuW3PNA6qLuaglZGzzysLpzLbpOFKPE7jxc/s320/IMG_3887.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One day old - two healthy baby boys</td></tr>
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4. My neighbor up the street, recently had a similar surgery but it was even more intense. It lasted several hours longer and parts of several of his organs were removed. Two months after surgery, he just drove by my house hauling trees. And he is 72. He has been a huge resource to me and came to talk to me shortly after my diagnosis. It's given me a lot of comfort to talk to someone who has gone through something similar. If he can go through surgery and recover so incredibly, there is no medical reason why I can't too. I just need to believe that I can. <br />
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5. I feel weak because I am so afraid. I feel like my fear is a sign of weakness and I know that I need to stop this. It isn't helping me and it's natural to be afraid. Yesterday, I was on the operating room table when my surgery was postponed. Before the Doctor came in to postpone it, I was shaking like a leaf and I asked the nurse if it was normal to be this afraid. She said "you wouldn't be human if you weren't afraid." I need to remember that fear is not a weakness, it's natural. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeK4oY4yedrm1CVTYduZNlQroIpcj-v3AqQYup1Nn4EDr07Hy5S6YJ7FAiedKrE_cwPj7VHNwMfJgMhaCoFPS4VJxx6mIE2v9ytrROtg_-L0PpBG-Zvn1hQWQZSGr0wzRWLghyphenhyphenhqeBw2Js/s1600/Inspirational-Quotes-You-were-given-this-life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeK4oY4yedrm1CVTYduZNlQroIpcj-v3AqQYup1Nn4EDr07Hy5S6YJ7FAiedKrE_cwPj7VHNwMfJgMhaCoFPS4VJxx6mIE2v9ytrROtg_-L0PpBG-Zvn1hQWQZSGr0wzRWLghyphenhyphenhqeBw2Js/s320/Inspirational-Quotes-You-were-given-this-life.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://sfdivorcecoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Inspirational-Quotes-You-were-given-this-life.jpg">http://sfdivorcecoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Inspirational-Quotes-You-were-given-this-life.jpg</a><br />
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6. Everyone around me believes I am a strong person. I keep getting messages and texts that literally say "You are strong, you can get through this." I need to focus on the positive support I am receiving from the people around me. If everyone else believes it, it must be true. :)<br />
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Thanks for listening (or reading in this case). I needed to get these feelings out and force myself to look at why I am strong. I am usually a pretty positive person, but have been struggling lately with staying positive. Fear has been consuming me and I need to take some kind of control and focus on the positives. <br />
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<em>Question of the day: Have you ever felt like fear is taking over and did you get a reign on it?</em><br />
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-90585881293377230242015-09-22T19:00:00.000-07:002015-09-22T19:00:42.649-07:002015 runDisney Princess Weekend ExpoOn our third day in Florida, I hopped a bus and headed to the ESPN Wide World of Sports for the 2015 Princess Half Marathon weekend race expo. We were staying at the Art of Animation resort (I'll review that resort later, but in short....awesome!!) I had checked with the special runDisney resort weekend transportation earlier in the day and they said the buses ran every 15 minutes. Unfortunately, I missed the previous bus and for some reason, another bus didn't run for 45 minutes. It was the one and only time all weekend I waited for transportation more than 5 minutes. I started to get a little nervous, as I had headed to the bus stop at 5:45 but by the time I got on the bus it was 6:30. We made a quick stop at Pop Century resort and then headed to ESPN zone. Fortunately, the Art of Animation is just up the road from ESPN and it was a quick bus trip. I followed the crowd to the buildings where the expo was located and nervously made my way in for bib pick up. I have to admit, the ESPN zone was pretty overwhelming!! I was expecting one building, not an entire complex. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race Transportation Schedule</td></tr>
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I found the Glass Slipper bib pick-up location and the Kids Races and grabbed my bib and my three children's. I then headed over to pick up race shirts and get my picture taken for the Glass Slipper challenge. (From what I have read on other blogs, you used to receive a bracelet to prove you completed the 10k, but this year they began taking your picture at the expo, after the 10k and then checking it before giving you your Glass Slipper Challenge medal. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Children's Miracle Network Picture</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Children's Miracle Network Booth</td></tr>
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Once I had our bibs and shirts, I began exploring the expo. I headed over to the Children's Miracle Network Hospital booth because I was also running this race for that charity. I picked up my "package" from them (a tech shirt and runDisney poster) and stopped at the official runDisney booth. There I picked up a Glass Slipper "I Did It" t-shirt and some runDisney Mickey Mouses for my kids. From there, I stopped at the Raw Threads booth for new shirts....I know, I know....I broke the "don't wear anything new on race day" rule. I thought it would be okay because I have worn there products before. And it was ok, no chaffing, etc but the die did run on my half marathon shirt (I think the poor shirt couldn't handle that much sweating and water dumped over it for three hours). :) I also picked up a new Sparkle skirt to wear over my capris and then headed back to the resort for the evening. My kids were participating in the Kid's Races the following morning. <br />
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That's where I'll leave you off for today...Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-23770159305396393512015-09-17T20:22:00.000-07:002015-09-17T20:22:08.664-07:002014 Tinkerbell Half Marathon Race Expo In January 2014, I finished my first-ever 5k. (Notice the use of the word “finish”.) That would be because I don’t feel like I can say “ran” or “raced”. I signed up to run the 5k and then let life get in the way of my training. I was doing great on training and running three to four days a week, and then a series of injuries and life got in the way (and I allowed it :/) I ran once between October 15th and January 17th (the day of the race). I was completely unprepared, but knew that it was a fun run and that I could walk the whole thing if I needed. My family was visiting Disneyland anyway so I was so excited to visit my first runDisney event. My three children also ran in the Kid’s Races and are total runDisney addicts as well now! I thought I’d recap my experience with you (mainly because I love hearing about your Disney races!)<br />
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My Run Disney experience began on Thursday when I went to the Race Expo to pick up our race bibs. The details are all a little fuzzy now, so these posts might be a little picture heavy and not very detailed. I *think* that packet pick-up was in the Disneyland Hotel underground parkade (I know they were at the Disneyland Hotel but I think it was the parkade). We were directed to a side entrance and as we walked up, saw the Tinkerbell Half Marathon mat and welcome signs.<br />
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I went at about 2:30 on Thursday and there were no line-ups for packet pick-up. I breezed through and headed upstairs to the expo to grab our t-shirts and browse.<br />
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When I walked into the expo area, it’s a little hard to explain how I felt. It was overwhelming and inspiring to see so many race vendors and runner’s in one area. I looked through the booths (with a big, silly grin plastered on my face) and eventually bought a headband and tank top from Raw Threads to wear the next day. After 15 minutes at the Expo I KNEW I had to come back another year to compete in more events. The atmosphere was infectious and I think if there had been sign-ups for the 10k available there, I would have signed up on the spot.<br />
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Even though there were hundreds of people at the expo, I was shocked that I recognized people from the blogging world. I saw Amy from <a href="http://http//www.pumpkintoprincess.com/" title="Pumpkin to Princess">Pumpkin to Princess</a> at the Sparkle Skirts booth, but she was very busy so I didn’t say hello. While at the Raw Threads booth, I actually waited in line behind Heather at <a href="http://throughheatherslookingglass.com/" title="Through Heather's Looking Glass">Through Heather’s Looking Glass.</a> I felt like I was in the presence of a celebrity….I’m afraid she may have thought I was strange. I kept stealing glances at her, trying to work up the courage to say hello. I’m not usually a shy person, but I was so nervous to talk to her….Heather is pretty much my blogging hero! Through Heather’s Looking Glass was the first runDisney blog I started reading (it was actually Running With Sass at the time) and I have literally read every post since I found it. Anyways, as you’ll read later on, it wasn’t the only time I saw her that weekend. I wish I had worked up the nerve to say hello but I guess it’s for the next runDisney event I run into her at. <span class="wp-smiley wp-emoji wp-emoji-smile" title=":)">:)</span><br />
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I can’t remember exactly how long I spent at the expo, but it was long enough to wet my palate and I knew I would be back some day.<br />
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I’ll be back tomorrow to recap the 5k for you!Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-90143514811104274372015-09-09T08:46:00.007-07:002015-09-09T08:46:55.951-07:00I'm Back!Hello blogging world! It's me....again. Yes, I know I said I left. And yet, here I am. You know when I said I felt "pigeon-holed" by this blog, like I wanted a more clear cut goal and voice. Well, I was wrong. AGAIN. Turns out, this is my voice. I started another blog, wrote a few posts and then never followed through. My mind always came back to Everyday Girl....how much I missed this blog and all the posts I wanted to write for it. Apparently, I don't want a more defined blog, I want o jump all over the place! :)<br />
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Guess what....this February I completed the 2015 Glass Slipper Challenge at Walt Disney World. I did it!!!! Seven months later and I'm still so excited that I have a big, goofy grin on my face just thinking about it. You would think I would have wrote about it on my other blog, but for some reason, I couldn't bring myself to do it. I kept thinking about this blog and wanted to share my story with all of you (yes, I'm aware that "all of you" is probably a pretty big statement for the three people who may be reading this). <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2015 Glass Slipper Challenge</td></tr>
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So, I'm back. Over the next few weeks, I plan on recapping my Glass Slipper Challenge races, the race expo and I'm going to take you waaaayy back to my first ever runDisney experience, the Neverland Family 5k in 2015. (That blog post is for everyone who is like me, and just loves reading runDisney race recaps, no matter how old). I'm also currently registered for the 2016 Star Wars Rebel Challenge and the 5k (along with my daughter, our first runDisney 5k event together!). But, as you'll also read over the next few weeks, life has thrown me a bit of a curve ball and I may not be able to run these races. I'm hoping for a positive outcome and that this medical issue will be nothing but a bump in my road. I think that may be why else I have come back to this blog and sharing. I loved writing regular blog posts and sharing with the world. When I read comments, it made me smile and lately I have been realizing that life is short and anything that makes you smile should be part of your day to day life. As much as I haven't been around, I've never really left. Everyone who follows this blog (as well as so many others), I've never quit reading your blogs. I haven't been commenting but I feel like I have been following along and a part of your online lives. So as much as you haven't been hearing about me, I'm still here....and now it's time to catch you up. <br />
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Welcome back!</span></strong><span style="background-color: white; color: red;"> </span>Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-261819361072115022015-09-08T18:50:00.002-07:002015-09-16T19:38:06.125-07:002014 Neverland Family 5k<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
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The night before the 2014 Neverland Family 5k was my brother’s 30th birthday, so I didn’t get to bed quite as early as planned. I woke up at 4:55 am (five minutes before my alarm was set to go off) and had butterflies in my stomach I was so excited. I was also exhausted. For one brief second, I considered shutting my alarm off and going back to sleep. I knew this wouldn’t be a true run for me as I had fallen off the running wagon, but instantly threw the thought out of my head and got up. I quickly dressed, took a selfie (no, I am not posting that selfie. I do not take good selfies. It was bad, really bad) and headed out the door. We were staying at one of the Good Neighbor Hotels (plug for the Best Western Park Place Inn and Minisuites) across the street from Disneyland so I was about a five minute walk to the Disneyland main entrance.<br />
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One of the things I loved about the Neverland Family Fun Run (by one, I mean one of the thousand things I loved!) was the course. The 5k race started on Main Street U.S.A. in Disneyland Park. Aahhhh, it was really, really amazing! I got to the start line in decent time and started in the B corral. I was pretty much right in front of the castle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/map.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="map" class="wp-image-40 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/map.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/map.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the map from the 2013 5k, but it's the same course so you get the idea!</td></tr>
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Soon, the double-decker bus lit up and the race announcers, Carissa and Rudy came out. There was a whole story to go with the race, but I can’t remember exactly what it was. Comment if you know, but I think it was that the Darling children (or maybe other children but the pirates thought they were the Darling children) were kidnapped by Captain Hook. Carissa and Rudy were dressed up and kept the story up until the race started.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/announcers2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="announcers2" class="wp-image-35 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/announcers2.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/announcers2.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race announcers, Rudy & Carissa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/start.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="start" class="wp-image-43 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/start.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/start.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The castle lit up and the deejay playing music before the race start. I was directly behind the deejay. </td></tr>
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Then the fireworks started. I kid you not, fireworks. (OK, if you’re reading this, you probably know something about the Disney races and already know that there were fireworks, but I thought it was amazing). To top it off, Tinkerbell was flying around the castle (as in a real person on a wire) while the fireworks were going off. I hadn’t started running yet, but I already knew I was VERY glad I got out of bed this morning!.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/fireworks.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="fireworks" class="wp-image-38 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/fireworks.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/fireworks.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fireworks before the race starts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="5k2" class="wp-image-21 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k2.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k2.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fireworks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="5k4" class="wp-image-23 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k4.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k4.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The starting line right beside Pixie Hollow (to the right of the castle)</td></tr>
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And we were off! I can’t remember exactly where we went anymore, but I know we went past It’s A Small World all lit up (which was beautiful!) and there was a character stop not far in (Pirates, I think). I didn’t stop and kept going. Soon, we crossed over into the backstage. These were some of the parts that I loved the most. As a huge Disney fan, getting to see backstage is worth the entry fee all on it’s own. There were floats set up as we ran by. I really didn’t get any good pictures because they all turned out blurry.<br />
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You’re probably wondering now if I ran the whole 5k? Absolutely not. I wouldn’t have ran the whole 5k even if I had been training…I’m more of a Galloway approach kind-of gal (run/walk). Basically how this race went, I ran for as long as I could and when I got tired, I pulled to the right side and walked for a bit. I found there were all types on the course: speedy runners, walkers, families, all different speeds, etc.<br />
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Another one of the thousand things I loved about this experience was the attention to detail. There were Neverland 5k logos projected onto the sides of buildings and marquees changed to congratulate the runners. Disney cast members and custodial staff were out all over the course cheering on the runners.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/custodial.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="custodial" class="wp-image-36 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/custodial.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/custodial.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custodial staff cheering on the runners. This picture doesn't show it, but they were also holding signs. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/ry400.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ry=400" class="wp-image-42 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/ry400.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/ry400.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5k logo projected onto a building backstage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/lostboys.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="lostboys" class="wp-image-39 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/lostboys.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/lostboys.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lost boys on the Rivers of America. This had something to do with the story line and they had microphones and were talking to the runners as we went past. </td></tr>
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Eventually we left Disneyland Park and crossed through the plaza and entered into the Disney’s California Adventures through a backstage area by the Tower of Terror. It was right around the time we entered DCA that my body started feeling warmed up and I really enjoyed the running.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k15.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="5k15" class="wp-image-33 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k15.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k15.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carthay Circle</td></tr>
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Lightning McQueen and Mater were out in Cars Land for pictures and I waited in line for a little bit and then ended up jumping out of line and kept running. Shortly after that, there were pirates and I did snap a quick picture with them (but I’m not sure where it is???)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="5k7" class="wp-image-26 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k7.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k7.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running through Carsland</td></tr>
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Once we entered Paradise Pier, Peter Pan & Wendy were out for pictures (I didn’t stop). Something else I haven’t mentioned yet is the music. It was incredible running through the parks hearing the Disney themed music in the background the whole time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k12.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="5k12" class="wp-image-31 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k12.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k12.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paradise Pier</td></tr>
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<a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="5k10" class="aligncenter wp-image-29 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k10.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k10.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k14.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/announcers.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="announcers" class="wp-image-34 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/announcers.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/announcers.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rudy & Carissa</td></tr>
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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://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/medal.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="medal" class="wp-image-41 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/medal.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/medal.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The medals</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/finish.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="finish" class="aligncenter wp-image-37 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/finish.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/finish.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finish line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k11.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="5k11" class="wp-image-30 size-medium" height="218" originalh="218" originalw="300" scale="2" src-orig="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k11.jpg?w=300&h=218" src="https://prairies2princess.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/5k11.jpg?w=600&h=436" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Official" Race Photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And there you have it. My first runDisney race experience. I am sitting here with another huge, silly grin across my face just thinking about the race and anticipating the next time I get to do this....and it happened nearly two years ago. Hope you enjoyed my recap and I hope you get the chance to experience this 5k. It was awesome! My hope is that I will be able to experience a runDisney 5k with my daughter this January. <span class="wp-smiley wp-emoji wp-emoji-smile" title=":)">:)</span>Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-13616109872137772292014-10-03T08:44:00.000-07:002014-10-03T08:44:46.378-07:00Good-bye with a new Hello Hello!! Long time no chat???? and I've got no valid reasons here....just lost my mojo...and to be perfectly honest, I just wasn't feeling it. When I started this blog, I loved the concept of it; write about everything, just be a voice. But as time went on, it felt like I didn't have direction and somehow by being all encompassing I felt like I was pigeon-holed (makes no sense, I know). I've been thinking about this for months and months and finally decided to take the plunge. What do I really want to write about?? Yes, I want to write a bit about life, but mostly I want to write about my fitness journey. I want to set a goal and document my path along the way. (That's what I love reading about from all of you...the everyday runs/work-outs, race recaps, with life sprinkled in). And yes, I have been reading all your blogs. Lying in bed at night, I catch up on all my blog readings and although I haven't been commenting I've been following along with you! <br />
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So, I have spent a lot of time thinking about this and finally came up with an identity and goal that I am in love with. I have been running again for 6 weeks and am working towards the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. You can follow my journey at <a href="http://www.prairies2princess.wordpress.com./">www.Prairies2Princess.wordpress.com.</a> It's still in the beginning stages and I hope to eventually register my own domain and get a style but for today it's where it needs to be. This blog already feels a little more focused to me; it's about my goal of running the Princess Half Marathon but also brings a little of me into it. I was born and raised on the Canadian Prairies and am now raising my children here. I love the beauty of the prairies and the peace and calm running on a country road brings. I hope you all stop by to say hi!! <br />
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Take care!!Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-75385009470046673992013-07-17T20:09:00.001-07:002013-07-17T20:09:59.131-07:00ABC's of MeThere is a popular blogging Q & A going around the Blogiverse and I thought it would be fun to join in. I've had so much fun reading other blogger's, so I hope you enjoy mine as well! <br />
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<strong>A. Attached or single? </strong>Attached! I am married to a great man who makes me laugh and I am proud to share my life with. <br />
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<strong>B. Best friend - </strong>I have several best friends; one I have known my whole life, several from high school, and a couple that live in the same town as me now. <br />
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<strong>C. Cake or Pie - </strong>I am more of a cake girl. I don't like pie, unless it's rhubarb....I LOVE rhubarb pie. <br />
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<strong>D. Day of Choice - </strong>Even though I'm a stay-at-home Mom, I still love Saturdays. I read the Saturday paper, relax, and enjoy time with my family. <br />
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<strong>E. Essential Item - </strong>My iPhone. I use it for social media, reading books, and keeping in touch with family and friends. <br />
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<strong>F. Favorite color - </strong>Teal green and blue. <br />
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<strong>G. Gummy bears or worms - </strong>I like either as long as they are sour. <br />
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<strong>H. Hometown - </strong>Small town Saskatchewan. <br />
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<strong>I. Favorite Indulgence - </strong>Coca Cola. I know it's an awful habit, but I can't help. <br />
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<strong>J. January or July - </strong>January in Saskatchewan means -40C, blizzards, and howling winds....so I'm going to have to go with July. I love July because it means spending time in my backyard, campfires with my kids, and relaxing outside. <br />
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<strong>K. Kids - </strong>I have a daughter and identical twin sons. My children are the light of my life. :)<br />
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<strong>L. Life isn't complete without - </strong>Family...my children, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles & cousins. I didn't realize it when I was younger, but I come from a very close-knit family. I am so fortunate to have such a great support system! <br />
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<strong>M. Marriage date - </strong>February 25, 2006<br />
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<strong>N. Number of brothers/sisters - </strong>2 younger brothers<br />
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<strong>O. Oranges or apples - </strong>I'm an apple girl...with a strange twist. It started when I was pregnant with my daughter...I craved apples, cheddar cheese, and green olives. Sounds strange, but it really is great!!<br />
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<strong>P. Phobias - </strong>I am afraid of flying and earthquakes...it makes the week before I leave for Disneyland a little stressful. The happiest place on earth is worth it though!!<br />
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<strong>Q. Quotes - "To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world." Bill Wilson </strong><br />
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<strong>R. Reasons to Smile - </strong>My three children make me smile every day. <br />
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<strong>S. Season of choice - </strong>A few years ago, I would have said spring or fall. I didn't like the heat or the cold, so the shoulder seasons were perfect for me. Now, I love the summer. Summer means days spent outside, supper on the BBQ, campfires with my family, and a beer relaxing with my hubby at the end of the day. <br />
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<strong>T. Tag 5 People - </strong>Anyone who hasn't done this survey yet but would like to. <br />
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<strong>U. Unknown fact about me - </strong>I don't like to do one thing at once, so I always try to double up. For example: Talk on the phone & do dishes, fold laundry & watch a movie, knit & watch TV....oh, look at that....another fun fact about me...I can knit. :)<br />
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<strong>V. Vegetable - </strong>Roasted asparagus<br />
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<strong>W. Worst habit - </strong>Why can I not think of a bad habit? I know that I have a ton of them and right now I am at a complete loss to think of any?? This makes no sense!! <br />
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<strong>X. X-ray or Ultrasound - </strong>Most recently? When I was pregnant with my twins, we had a lot of complications and I had hours and hours and hours of ultrasounds. <br />
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<strong>Y. Your favorite food - </strong>This is a tough one. I'm going to choose my favorite "fancy" food combo....filet mignon with bernaise sauce and lobster. Not everyday food at my house, but it's my favorite "going on a celebration date" food. <br />
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<strong>Z. Zodiac sign - </strong>Taurus<br />
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There you have it...the ABC's of me. I can't wait to read more of yours as well! <br />
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-71124684262284531282013-06-13T10:02:00.000-07:002013-06-13T10:07:21.259-07:00Energybits Review & GiveawayHello everyone! I am so excited to be sharing my first product review & giveaway all on the same day! A few weeks ago, the kind folks over at Energybits sent me a sample of their product to review. Twitter and the blogging world has been buzzing about this product and I was so excited to be given this opportunity! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAoU-WrDn6ipSM0KpSbdrkGbmEwycN6ZKyw8qF87Y0pGCgRvgCGfGFpvNxDOmU1D5KKDFEM3h3M0tyUddtGX2R-9k56KI-YeWPvj0zFHIKy69o0BYKhWRCLmM2h7ORKnht2V5s_yB3q7CO/s1600/energybits2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAoU-WrDn6ipSM0KpSbdrkGbmEwycN6ZKyw8qF87Y0pGCgRvgCGfGFpvNxDOmU1D5KKDFEM3h3M0tyUddtGX2R-9k56KI-YeWPvj0zFHIKy69o0BYKhWRCLmM2h7ORKnht2V5s_yB3q7CO/s320/energybits2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I mentioned <a href="http://www.diaryofaneverydaygirl.blogspot.ca/2013/06/date-night.html">here</a> that my computer crashed and then I was busy on the weekend having a date with my hubby. Last week, my son had eye surgery and since I wasn't getting a lot of sleep, it seemed like the perfect time to test out Energybits. After a particularly short night of sleep, I felt like I was hitting the wall by 10:30 in the morning. I pulled out the Energybits tin I received. The letter I received said "We suggest you take <strong>atleast </strong>30 tabs <br />
10 - 15 minutes before your next run or workout to experience their steady flow of energy and to improve mental alertness or stop hunger. More is always better." <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhmESvjgvQxAZ0v9v3_FDJ5khORRzfHA2bKqwYnD1Sdj_RUF4S2_voZPBxsdURvrIGRQHI4nKTjcRD1J7e7GqdI66mp5P-OR6hgaW5iUVMGh9XjcxMIrPdD0-v-qEBPGqoavYmAP1onRR/s1600/energybits3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhmESvjgvQxAZ0v9v3_FDJ5khORRzfHA2bKqwYnD1Sdj_RUF4S2_voZPBxsdURvrIGRQHI4nKTjcRD1J7e7GqdI66mp5P-OR6hgaW5iUVMGh9XjcxMIrPdD0-v-qEBPGqoavYmAP1onRR/s320/energybits3.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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My first impression of the tabs was that they smelled like a fish tank, or the fish department in a pet store. Energybits can be chewed, but I swallowed mine. I don't mind swallowing pills and the tabs are quite small, so I had no problem with this. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I did feel a VERY noticeable energy boost after taking the tabs. I perked up and began feeling less tired and more mentally "clear" (not sure how else to describe it). Before taking the Energybits, I wasn't sure how I was going to get through the day without a nap. After taking them, I ended up feeling way more alert and when my hubby came home at lunch, I went on a 3 mile brisk walk. Even after my walk, I was feeling energized and ready for more. Wow!! I am a believer!! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2eRNGeoab8M3RlHNUj7SGN1jpWhsgvvil88Z31DdkcV52fIIL929St95fFca6pSeVSU1ZWZ9CCkZCG9AiNYrYEwKB0PJVTTYpHjT8vGZGHY_ogONvivDE5c8NKlMXKQ8loc0S-QagJGC/s1600/energybits.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2eRNGeoab8M3RlHNUj7SGN1jpWhsgvvil88Z31DdkcV52fIIL929St95fFca6pSeVSU1ZWZ9CCkZCG9AiNYrYEwKB0PJVTTYpHjT8vGZGHY_ogONvivDE5c8NKlMXKQ8loc0S-QagJGC/s320/energybits.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are many other features of this product that I am in love with (on top of the fact that they work!!). All of the following information is straight from the letters and hand-outs that Energybits sent me. <br />
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Energybits offer "the highest concentration of protein in the world and deliver a "steady stream of energy without sugar, caffeine, chemicals or stomach distress." These bits are NOT a supplement, they are food! </blockquote>
I love that these bits give you energy without all using a natural product. We put so many chemically manufactured ingredients in our bodies these days that it's refreshing to see something straight from nature! <br />
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Energybits have just one ingredient - 100% organically grown spirulina algae, yet they contain 40 vitamins and minerals, Omega 3 and 64% protein. </blockquote>
<strong>One ingredient!</strong> It's not very often we see that! And each tab contains only 1 calorie, so I got a HUGE boost of energy...both physically and mentally...for only 30 calories. I am in love! :)<br />
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Check out <a href="http://www.energybits.com/">www.energybits.com</a> for all the products this company offers. They also have Recoverybits, Vitalitybits, and Skinnybits. I can't wait to try more! <br />
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Energybits have offered to send one of my readers a tin of bits to try as well. Enter below...I can't wait for someone else to try this amazing product! And for everyone who doesn't win, the great folks at Energybits are giving everyone a 10% discount off of bits. Enter the code "BLOG" into their coupon box when ordering and the discount will be instantly applied. <br />
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Please stop by and "Like" my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Diary-of-an-Everyday-Girl/133466543384183?fref=ts">Facebook page</a> and follow me on Twitter @EveryDayGirl5. <br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/451fd00/" id="rc-451fd00" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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<em>Question of the Day: Tell me why you would love to try Energybits? </em>Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-68296054825679400912013-06-06T10:01:00.002-07:002013-06-06T10:01:41.679-07:00Date NightSo, I've been MIA again for a while. And I'm sure many of you thought "Oh, there goes Becky dropping off the face of the earth for months at a time AGAIN". (Oh, by the way....my name is Becky, not Every Day....but you probably already assumed that). My computer crashed and I went without for a few weeks. I haven't yet attempted to blog post from my phone, although I am thinking I should soon. So, basically, I disappeared. Then I got my computer back, but hubby and I spent a day in "the city" (also known as anywhere that has a store open past 5:00 on Saturday). <br />
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Here's a peak into our "date day". Our first stop was at an irrigation store to pick up more sprinkler heads (cause we're romantic like that). Next, we made a few stop to look at chimineas (fire pits). We got a beautiful clay one as a wedding gift, but it broke this spring and we are in the market for a new one. I loved our clay one and can't find another one, so looks like we'll be going to a new material. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCczFzbkBYWLdVGkYccQSQvFUw75O_oSaZXTBxBPhi6HuPSK3R4gpwLvQMbM8w8ZwpFn6r5HbDpmxISM5n7vbg8O_s9A0tJB2eQZQl_htggf23u7jT6h2ouaYQERMHSTn5E2OTceFSLy4h/s1600/chimenea.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCczFzbkBYWLdVGkYccQSQvFUw75O_oSaZXTBxBPhi6HuPSK3R4gpwLvQMbM8w8ZwpFn6r5HbDpmxISM5n7vbg8O_s9A0tJB2eQZQl_htggf23u7jT6h2ouaYQERMHSTn5E2OTceFSLy4h/s320/chimenea.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Good-bye clay chiminea! </span></div>
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After that, it was 4:00 already so we decided to go sit on a patio somewhere and relax, and then have an early supper. We decided to eat at The Keg. This was our "Mother's Day, Father's Day, Celebrate Seeding Being Done" date and we were feeling in a steak-y kind-of mood. </div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Summer Sangria (hubby's) & my favorite Reisling white wine</span></div>
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We relaxed on the patio, had a drink, and talked. With hubby working a full-time management job and then helping out at the family farm so much since his Dad's accident, we haven't saw much of each other lately. When he is home, our focus is on our children and spending time with them. It was nice to just be together, talk, and enjoy each other's company. Day's like this remind me of how much I love my husband, how fortunate I am, and why I married him. He makes me laugh all the time and is my best friend. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4jcLQlytqafnvs48o9C6w6jgXmCgSyWMg1A2PnX7ZHFCF80YigYbkdSE_R0x-Tehu1iwE5lekXDlpmCWyFDisidTfWOoEgWj1FwS9qnDPqviTWJe7vHVH_lwsRyqlycFiknjrurYgjnE/s1600/supper2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4jcLQlytqafnvs48o9C6w6jgXmCgSyWMg1A2PnX7ZHFCF80YigYbkdSE_R0x-Tehu1iwE5lekXDlpmCWyFDisidTfWOoEgWj1FwS9qnDPqviTWJe7vHVH_lwsRyqlycFiknjrurYgjnE/s320/supper2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I forgot to take a picture of our appetizer, but we shared the calamari. It was delicious! It was mixed with jalapeno and red peppers and had a nice flavor without being too spicy! Totally recommend it! For an entree, hubby ordered the filet mignon with crab legs and mashed potatoes. (I forgot to take a picture until he was half done). <br />
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I ordered the filet mignon with a lobster tail and twice-baked potato. It was delicious! Seriously, I am actually getting hungry thinking about it. The filet was wrapped with applewood smoked bacon and cooked to perfection! The Keg serves their filets with a bernaise sauce that I loved! Hubby didn't enjoy it quite as much, but I thought it was amazing! </div>
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We noticed a young couple that were obviously on their first date (or very early on in their relationship). There were lots of smiles, awkwardness and laughter. As a random act of kindness, we asked our waitress to take them a complimentary dessert and bill it to us. I told her to tell them to "pay it forward" some day. I hope they do, and I hope in a few years they are married and have a fun story to tell about one of their first dates. </div>
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After that, we headed home to pick up our kids from my Mom & Dads house. All in all, it was a great day! We talked, we laughed, we held hands. I can't speak for other's, but I know how important it is for my husband and I to spent time just ourselves. It's easy to neglect when children, work, or life are all calling for attention too, but it makes our marriage so much stronger. Our son had eye surgery on Tuesday, so it was nice to get away before the stress and worry of that came. </div>
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Stay tuned for my Energybits review & FIRST EVER giveaway! (Can you tell I'm excited about this great product!!)</div>
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If you aren't already following me, look me up on Twitter @EveryDayGirl5. I'd love to connect with you! <br />
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<em>Question of the Day: What do you & your significant other do to "bond"?</em>Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-1695965916067485752013-05-14T13:48:00.000-07:002013-05-14T13:48:26.622-07:00Tasty TuesdayGood afternoon! Sorry for my late posting today! Today I am going to share another soup recipe (I know, I know, enough with the soup recipes). I got this recipe from my girlfriend who is vegan and gluten free and it's great! <br />
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<strong><u>Lentil Soup </u></strong><br />
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2 Leeks, sliced, white part only<br />
3 - 4 carrots, sliced<br />
3 - 4 stalks of celery, sliced<br />
1 clove garlic, crushed <br />
3-4 cartons vegetable stock (12 - 16 cups)<br />
1 - 2 tbsp. basil<br />
Seasoning salt & pepper, to taste<br />
Bob's Red Mill Veggie Soup Mix (1/4 - 1/2 cup)<br />
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In a large soup pot, sauté leeks, carrots, celery & garlic in a little bit of water or vegetable stock until a little soft. (You can use oil if you want) <br />
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Add vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer to add basil, salt & pepper. Rinse veggie soup mix in a strainer with cool water and add to pot. Let simmer until lentils are soft (approximately 20 - 30 minutes). <br />
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NOTES: I didn't use the Bob's Red Mill soup mix because I couldn't find it where I live. I did use a mix of lentils and pot barley, but I think next time I would add more like 1 cup of lentils instead of a half a cup. I also added a cup of mushrooms and a cup of Kale. The mushrooms and Kale were a great addition. I ripped the tough stems off the baby kale, and next time I would use more.<br />
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You can mess around with the amounts, but this is a great, hearty soup that offers lots of nutritious foods! <br />
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Enjoy!Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-24902620448745135622013-05-12T09:36:00.000-07:002013-05-12T09:36:43.897-07:00Random Acts of KindnessHappy Mother's Day to all the mom's reading this! I hope you get a day full of whatever you were hoping! Last night, my five year old daughter brought out some nail polish and lotion because she wanted to give me a foot rub and paint my nails. No spa could compete with that service!!<br />
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M's favorite movie is Brave, so I found the YouTube video of Merida being inducted as a princess at the Magic Kingdom yesterday. We watched it as our nails dried and snuggled on the couch. </div>
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When I woke up this morning, I got a beautiful card from hubby and snuggles from my boys. M surprised me with her card and present she made in Kindergarten. So cute!! <br />
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In non-Mother's Day related news, runDisney released pictures of the medals for the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend and Dumbo Double Dare races. <br />
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<a href="http://www.rundisney.com/blog/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a></div>
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The Disneyland Half Marathon probably won't ever work for me to make, the timing is just all wrong. That doesn't stop me from being mega-jealous of everyone who will be earning these medals. Good luck and have a blast everyone!!<br />
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You can read how this started (along with my first reported Random Act of Kindness) <a href="http://www.diaryofaneverydaygirl.blogspot.ca/2013/04/26-random-acts-of-kindness.html">here</a> or the second one <a href="http://www.diaryofaneverydaygirl.blogspot.ca/2013/04/random-acts-of-kindness.html">here</a>. </div>
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<span style="color: red;">Random Act of Kindness #3: </span><span style="color: black;">Maybe this doesn't count as an "act of kindness", maybe it's more of a favor?? I'm not sure, but it put a smile on someone's face and it was in the right spirit, so I'm putting it down. This week, I heard through the small town grapevine (yes they exist) that a friend of mine was taking her two small son's to the Mother's Day event at the school (the Grade 1 - 4 class invite their mother's in for pampering). The day was supposed to be for her, but she didn't know what to do with the other kids so she was bringing them along. I called her up and offered to watch the smaller children so she could enjoy her time with the older ones. She was happy and it was no problem for me. My kid's got to play with some friends and she got to enjoy her mother's day experience. Everyone wins! :) </span></div>
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Happy Mother's Day to all the mother's, mother-in-laws, step-mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures (aunts, cousins, babysitters, etc). The world is a better place because of your love for children!! Hope you have a great day!!</div>
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-33594398988605924102013-05-09T10:36:00.002-07:002013-05-09T10:36:29.478-07:00Real Beauty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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This past week has been a lot of things...overwhelming, frustrating, heartbreaking and ultimately enlightening. My father-in-law, who suffered from a farming accident (read more <a href="http://www.diaryofaneverydaygirl.blogspot.ca/2013/04/a-statistic.html">here)</a> isn't healing properly and had to go back into surgery. A project I have been working on for over four years came to completion and we have been swamped by it. But most of all, my heart is hurting for my daughter. </div>
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My daughter, M, is five years old. She is one of the sweetest, kindest souls I have ever met. She is empathetic and wise far beyond her five short years. She is beautiful in every way possible. And at age five, she came home from school crying because one little girl in her class told her "you aren't pretty", "you aren't my friend", "you aren't good enough". Big, sloppy tears fall down my cheeks now even as I write this. You aren't good enough!! At age five! It breaks my heart that any child can say this and that any child has to hear this. Truthfully, I think I am taking this harder than her. After talking to her for a few minutes, she felt better. She knows that she is beautiful, on the inside and out and she knows that she has friends who love her for who she is. I know this won't be the last time she encounters these sorts of comments, but I wish I could bubble wrap her little heart and protect her forever. </div>
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Then it gets me thinking even further, isn't this what many women feel; we aren't pretty enough, we aren't good enough. How do I raise a daughter who knows her worth; who knows how important she is, how special she is, how beautiful she is on the inside and the outside? First things first...show her. Show her that I think I am pretty, important, special and loved. And hopefully, she will follow suit and learn the same. When she looks in the mirror, I want her to see what I see in her. </div>
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A few weeks ago, a friend shared the Dove Real Beauty video on Facebook. The first time I watched this video, I cried big, ugly tears and immediately shared it with my friends. </div>
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I love this video but it also makes me sad. As women, why do so many not see our real beauty? When we look in the mirror, why is the image so different than what others see. <br />
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This week, I pulled out my wedding pictures. My brother-in-law told me my wedding pictures looked like I could be a model, so this week I looked at them with his eyes. Seven years ago, I didn't see it, I almost thought he was being sarcastic. This week, I looked with gentler eyes, and there was a beautiful, happy young lady looking back at me.<br />
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My pledge is to look at myself with kinder and gentler eyes. Not only for me, but for my daughter. I want her to love herself and there is no better way to teach than by example. <br />
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<em>Question of the Day: Do you see yourself how others do?</em>Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-32882247243312828192013-05-07T14:22:00.000-07:002013-05-07T14:22:07.015-07:00Tasty TuesdayGood morning!<br />
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Sorry for dropping off the earth! The past week has been...well, it's been...more on that later. For now, here's another yummy recipe. <br />
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<strong>Beef Shishkabobs </strong><br />
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Cut beef into cubes - sirloin steak or sirloin tip roast work well. (I use 3-4 steaks to feed my family, but you can do use as much or as little as you'd like.)<br />
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Marinate for 3 to 5 days in the following (some people use this recipe and marinade longer) I use the Tupperware Jr. Season-Serve container to marinade and flip a couple times a day. You can use anything, just make sure you stir regularly so all meats gets thoroughly marinated on all sides: <br />
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2 tbsp. soya sauce<br />
1 tsp. ginger<br />
2 tbsp. vinegar<br />
2 tbsp. parsley flakes<br />
1 clove garlic or a little garlic salt<br />
1/2 tsp. pepper<br />
1/4 c. honey<br />
1/4 - 1/2 c. oil<br />
1/2 tsp. salt<br />
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Double the marinate for a large amount of meat. Here's a picture while it's marinating (just mixed it up this morning).<br />
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This is a local favorite recipe. I don't know where it originated, but it's been passed through our community over and over again. It is DELICIOUS! Pair your kabobs with baked potatoes on the BBQ, garlic bread, and grilled veggies for a delicious summer meal. <br />
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Are you following me on Twitter? Check me out @EveryDayGirl5. I'll tweet a picture later this week when these shishkabobs are cooked. <br />
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-19814862457290703182013-04-30T07:22:00.002-07:002013-04-30T07:38:20.516-07:00Tasty TuesdayThis weekend, we had beautiful, sunny spring weather and began to think that spring was really here. This morning, we woke up to this. <br />
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That means there has been snow on the ground EVERY day since October 22nd. For those of you thinking that might be normal for Canada...no, not at all! It was almost completely gone after this weekend, but we still did have one big pile left. <br />
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Since winter decided to rear her head again this morning, I decided to make some hearty, warm soup for lunch. (Sorry, no pictures because I am just starting to chop the vegetables and haven't assembled it yet.) This recipe was my Great Gramma's and has been passed down for years. I love the few differences from an "average" hamburger soup; like shredded carrots. Enjoy!<br />
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<strong>Hamburger Soup</strong><br />
1 1/2 lb. lean ground beef - browned<br />
1 medium onion, chopped<br />
1 - 28g can tomatoes<br />
3 cans consumme<br />
2 cans tomato soup<br />
2 cans of water (use one of the empty soup cans)<br />
4 carrots, grated<br />
1 - 3 bay leaves<br />
3 celery stalks, chopped<br />
1 tsp. dry parsley <br />
1/2 tsp. thyme<br />
8 tbsp. barley <br />
1/2 tsp. dill seed<br />
salt & pepper, to taste<br />
Brown meat, drain fat. Add all ingredients to slow cooker. Cook on medium in large soup pot for 3 - 4 hours. <br />
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I like to serve with buns or biscuits, and a nice, light tossed salad. This soup is very filling and I always get compliments on it. It can also be made in the slow cooker, and it freezes great! I will often make a batch in the slow cooker and one at the stove, at the same time. Then I freeze half for another day. <br />
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<em>Question of the Day: Will spring every come to stay? :)</em>Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-44250380229807665092013-04-28T09:14:00.000-07:002013-04-28T09:14:04.151-07:00Random Acts of KindnessLast week, I wrote that each week I would be performing one random act of kindness in honor of the kids from Sandy Hook, victims at Boston Marathon, and all the other victims from senseless acts of violence. You can read that post <a href="http://www.diaryofaneverydaygirl.blogspot.ca/2013/04/26-random-acts-of-kindness.html">here.</a> <br />
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<a href="http://honestlyb.com/tag/kindness-quote/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a></div>
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This week, I bought a $5 Tim Horton's (a popular Canadian coffee joint) gift card and placed it under the windshield wiper of a stranger's vehicle. I wrote on package, "To: You From: Me "Hope you get a smile, pass it on." I don't know who got that card, but I hope it brought a smile to their face. I'm disappointed in myself because it didn't occur to me at the time to take a picture. :( Oh, well, next time! <br />
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In other news, on Friday the blogosphere was a-buzz with new runDisney news. You can read the full press-release <a href="http://www.rundisney.com/blog/articles/a-princess-and-a-pixie/">here.</a> If you haven't heard, to sum it up: runDisney has announced they will have a new challenge at the 2014 Princess Half Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World. Similar to the newly announced Dumbo Double Dare and Dopey challenges, there will be an all-new 10k race offered Princess weekend. If you complete both the 10k race and the half marathon, you will complete the Glass Slipper Challenge and receive an additional medal. <br />
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As new in 2014, there will be a special edition Coast-to-Coast Race Challenge Medal for those who complete the Tinkerbell Half Marathon in Disneyland in January and the Princess Half Marathon in February. <br />
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<a href="http://www.rundisney.com/blog/articles/a-princess-and-a-pixie/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a></div>
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What do these new announcements mean to me? I'm not sure. All along, I have been planning on running the Tinkerbell Half Marathon in January. Being from the Canadian Prairies, Disneyland is a lot quicker and easier to get to. At Disneyland, we can stay across the street and walk to the parks. BUT, the Glass Slipper Challenge is throwing a wrench into my plans. And the special edition Coast-to-Coast Race Challenge Medal is really messing with me. I have myself questioning whether there's anyway I could fit a solo trip to the Princess Half Marathon to get them all! </div>
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<em>Question of the Day: What would you do if you were in my shoes? Tinkerbell Half Marathon or Princess Half Marathon?</em></div>
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-74636783512436622722013-04-26T10:24:00.001-07:002013-04-26T10:24:20.967-07:00Disney California Adventure ParkLast year my hubby and I, along with our 3 children and my parents visited the Disneyland Resort. You can read more about our Disneyland adventures <a href="http://www.diaryofaneverydaygirl.blogspot.ca/2013/02/the-happiest-place-on-earth.html">here.</a> Since it's Friday, it's sunny, and it seems like spring has arrived, I wanted to share something fun. Here are a few pictures from DCA. <br />
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Paradise Pier lit up at night. </div>
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Twilight Zone Tower of Terror - one of my favorite rides!</div>
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Hollywood Boulevard (yes, we went during the slow season)</div>
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Ariel's Grotto</div>
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We had lunch one day at Ariel's Grotto. It was the only character meal that we did, and chose it because my daughter loves the princesses and the food had good reviews. We loved it! Yes, it was costly, but felt it was well-worth the meals we got and the character interaction. I have never done a character meal and can guarantee I will be doing more on every trip now. <br />
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We were very fortunate that our two year old twins easily fell asleep and had great naps in their stroller. The stroller reclined completely and had big sun canopies that kept them covered. Grampa had to resort to benches to have his afternoon nap. <br />
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Wow, I realized I really didn't take very many pictures in DCA. I will have to get my Mom's disc again and see if she has more because I'm sure there is. Bottom line: This vacation was a blast! We heard a lot of "negative" comments about taking three little children to Disney. I am so glad that we ignored them and went ahead because it was one of the best vacations I have ever been on. The joy as they experienced Disney was incredible and a year later, my daughter still talks about it on a regular basis. I'm VERY excited to go back and experience Carsland. I have to HUGE Cars fans in my house and they will be over-the-moon happy to see it! <br />
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If you have any questions about travelling with young children, please feel free to ask me! Also, are you following me on Twitter yet? Check me out @EveryDayGirl5. Drop me a line that you came from my blog and I will be sure to follow you as well. I'm enjoying making friends in the Blog/twitterverse and looking forward to hearing from you!! Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-4031929000186155452013-04-23T11:31:00.000-07:002013-04-23T11:31:20.694-07:00Tasty TuesdaysGood afternoon! It's a bright and sunny day today and I am feeling like spring might be on the way! We still have snow, but are able to see the ground in places now. <br />
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Since the snow is almost gone, I thought I'd take this opportunity to make one of my family's favorite "winter" lunches, Cream of Mushroom soup. Since I made it for lunch, I'll share the recipe with you as well. <br />
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<strong>Cream of Mushroom Soup</strong><br />
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1 cup mushrooms, thinly sliced (I use 2 cups)<br />
2 tbsp. butter (I used unsalted)<br />
3 cups chicken stock<br />
1/4 tsp. salt<br />
1/8 tsp. pepper<br />
2 tbsp. onion, chopped<br />
2 tbsp. flour<br />
1/2 c. cream (I use half and half)<br />
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg OR 1/4 tsp. thyme (I use thyme)<br />
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Slice mushrooms through cap and stem. Cook mushrooms with onion in butter for 5 minutes. Blend in flour, add stock. Cook and stir until slightly thickened. Cool slightly, add cream and seasonings. To serve, heat to just below boiling point. <br />
*I use extra mushrooms because 1 cup doesn't seem like very many. My husband likes a "heartier" soup, so this gives it more substance. I also use unsalted butter because I find when using salted butter it is just too salty. Now that my family has grown from just hubby and I, I always made a double batch of the soup.<br />
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I serve this sandwich with a sandwich or tossed salad. Today, I am made turkey/apple/cheddar Panini's. The first time I ever tried this combination was at a lunch bistro and I was amazed by how great it was! I spread garlic aoli on ciabatta bread, then topped with sliced apples (skins removed), cheddar cheese, and turkey breast. Enjoy!!<br />
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I found this recipe in a local family cookbook and have adapted it to my liking.<br />
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<em>Question of the day: What food combination have you tried that was surprisingly good?</em> Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-2574014946994112252013-04-21T11:00:00.000-07:002013-04-21T11:00:41.745-07:0026 Random Acts of KindnessThis past week has had me thinking, a lot. I started a post back in January, but never completed it and it has been sitting in my "Drafts" for months now. After the Boston Marathon bombings, I have felt the need to complete this post and share it. <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://danceteacherwebblog.com/?p=2273"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://danceteacherwebblog.com/?p=2273</span></a></div>
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The Sandy Hook shootings started a movement across the internet. 26 Random Acts of Kindness. Facebook, Twitter, blogs, everyone was putting out the plea to complete 26 Random Acts of kindness in honour and memory of the 26 victims of Sandy Hook. This movement touched me and I began looking for ways in my everyday life to make a difference to someone else. I began doing little things to put a smile on someone's face: complimenting a new outfit, paying for the vehicle behind me's coffee in the drive-through, etc. I found that not only did those little things put a smile on the recipients face, but they put a smile on mine. Everything I did for someone else also made me feel happy.<br />
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<em><span style="background-color: yellow; color: blue;">"When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace." The 14th Dalai Lama (1935)</span></em></blockquote>
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After the Boston marathon bombing, I think it's even more important to show kindness to others. These horrific events shake people right to their core. Small acts of kindness can remind us that people care. The human spirit is alive and a few evil people are not the majority. <br />
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<span style="background-color: yellow; color: blue;"><em>"Wherever there is a human in need, there is an opportunity for kindness and to make a difference." Kevin Heath</em></span></blockquote>
Every week, I will share with you one of my random acts of kindness. Sometimes they cost money, and sometimes they are as simple as a compliment to someone who needs it. For me, this isn't done after 26 acts of kindness. I will be doing this to honour the victims of Sandy Hook, Boston Marathon, 9/11, Montreal Massacre, etc. and for all the victims of tragedies that we don't hear about. <br />
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<span style="color: red;"><u><strong>Random Act of Kindness #1:</strong></u></span> On Friday, I was speaking on the phone with a friend. I could tell she was having a bad day and feeling insecure. I told her what a great job she was doing: as a mother, a friend, a volunteer board member, etc. I told her how valued she was and how fortunate we were to have her in our life. She paused for a long time, and I was worried that she was annoyed with me (there's my own insecurities rearing their head). Then, I heard a small sob and she said "Really? Thank-you.". All the wonderful things about herself that I could see, she wasn't seeing in that moment. She needed to hear it to get her self "back in her lane" (as Oprah says). Friday evening I received the following message from her "Thank-you so much for what you said to me. Today, I was feeling like I was doing everything wrong and wasn't making a difference to anything or anyone. Thanks for picking me up when I needed it and making me feel better." <br />
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<em><span style="background-color: yellow; color: blue;">"Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act created a ripple with no logical end." Scott Adams (1957)</span> </em></blockquote>
If we all pledge to commit one Random Act of Kindness per week, think of the good that will be spread in the world. The smiles on strangers and friends faces alone make this all worthwhile. Please commit to this, and then share it. Let's all make the world a better place. <br />
<strong>"Pass It On...."</strong> Thank-you!!<br />
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<em>Question of the Day: </em><em>Will you commit to 1 Small Act of Kindness per week? </em><br />
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-74415235135057179202013-04-17T10:57:00.000-07:002013-04-17T10:57:31.191-07:00A StatisticI had a different post planned for today, but decided to share this instead. <br />
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Last week my family became a statistic. A very lucky statistic, an incredibly fortunate statistic, but a statistic none-the-less. Five days ago, my father-in-law was seriously injured in a farm-related accident. He came out incredibly lucky, but his life will be changed. I struggled with whether I should share this story on here, but ultimately decided I would. Most of you reading this are probably not from a rural area, and you may not have anything to do with the agriculture industry. Maybe one person reads this and is a little extra careful tomorrow at work. Because this isn't only just a story about farm safety, it's a story about workplace safety and many occupations have hazards associated with them. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg858G-7N6hkITCjyr8kJ2meek0LqRBWXEXCJUgte-jhiBO4oyhZ3dzQGll81FclXV66ne49Tn2gvVcCUeUyc3kxCAOI_Q_rNDX9dxICylLzbrrgGtu2rJgOYemH52kOJboDIhLlX5_rkz9/s1600/farmsafetycow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg858G-7N6hkITCjyr8kJ2meek0LqRBWXEXCJUgte-jhiBO4oyhZ3dzQGll81FclXV66ne49Tn2gvVcCUeUyc3kxCAOI_Q_rNDX9dxICylLzbrrgGtu2rJgOYemH52kOJboDIhLlX5_rkz9/s320/farmsafetycow.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/farm_safety.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/farm_safety.html</span></a></span></div>
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Studies indicate that annually, between 5% to 10% of the agriculture population are injured in non-fatal accidents. (Source: <a href="http://publications.gc.ca/Collection/Statcan/21-601-MIE/21-601-MIE2007084.pdf)">here</a>) On Friday, our family farm became part of those statistics. My husband's family operates a mixed farm; a grain and cattle operation. My father-in-law was moving grain out of a bin using an auger. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIgZcHa-oh3WCW6zJcePkLVfZoiiGXxzwpRD2TAOPkOPlOV-HBDkza5kWf8QhaaOIPF1LV4VrULIU3UownnrXHi514IzMZKFSgFDGU_8q5piUTMLcNfnLTxcbHmqD0amVfOuWP6ET4qDr/s1600/auger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIgZcHa-oh3WCW6zJcePkLVfZoiiGXxzwpRD2TAOPkOPlOV-HBDkza5kWf8QhaaOIPF1LV4VrULIU3UownnrXHi514IzMZKFSgFDGU_8q5piUTMLcNfnLTxcbHmqD0amVfOuWP6ET4qDr/s200/auger.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source: <a href="http://www.brandt.ca/">www.brandt.ca</a></span></div>
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This is a busy time of year at the farm. They are calving (the process where cows have their babies) and preparing for seeding (planting of the crops in the spring). It is a busy time of year with an endless amount of jobs to be done. In a split second, my F-I-L took one wrong step and instead of stepping into the bin, stepped into the auger. He has been around them his entire life and knows how careful you need to be....all in took was one second of not paying attention. Thankfully, the auger stalled and he was able to pull his foot/leg out before even more damage was done. He was rushed by ambulance to the hospital and hours later had surgery. His toes were gone and he had severe damage at the end of his foot. The Doctors made the decision to amputate the front half of his foot. He is left with his ankle, heel and back half of the foot. He will be able to get a prosthetic so he will be able to walk, golf, and return to the career he loves. The spectrum of the farm may change, as he will not likely be able to keep up with cattle, but he can return to work the land. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XnhIre1Ex5EnxX2ql2b7_DRqbZ4nAuclR0NEKFvDegCWiQk3j99fQDk9WH4dnGNrLcFmzivEJ7BMZFg5BGLmMA7c3e6xIDgyD0LRqMEWp_CG4bBTakt-gYQPjPosOmwkaMJNUdz_o0cW/s1600/combine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XnhIre1Ex5EnxX2ql2b7_DRqbZ4nAuclR0NEKFvDegCWiQk3j99fQDk9WH4dnGNrLcFmzivEJ7BMZFg5BGLmMA7c3e6xIDgyD0LRqMEWp_CG4bBTakt-gYQPjPosOmwkaMJNUdz_o0cW/s1600/combine.jpg" /></a></div>
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The bottom line is: he was lucky. There are a million different things that could have happened to have this ending be different. If the auger hadn't stalled, it could have sucked in more of his leg, or worse if he had fallen into it. Each year, there are many deaths due to farm accidents. We are incredibly lucky to not be part of those statistics. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOO2H0L8PpfSYocs-3F1e9R1o0cyd6QGbiYuylxBLBMGSObFFH_dh1jFV3cHF4T2p2AAT8-fkrh6dWquzwLWCiPKH3pOpnDFAwtiuf0cCZfVCzadxpP4ARi-56Aw8L-eO4DVaDYQ4jr299/s1600/saskatchewan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOO2H0L8PpfSYocs-3F1e9R1o0cyd6QGbiYuylxBLBMGSObFFH_dh1jFV3cHF4T2p2AAT8-fkrh6dWquzwLWCiPKH3pOpnDFAwtiuf0cCZfVCzadxpP4ARi-56Aw8L-eO4DVaDYQ4jr299/s320/saskatchewan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source: Private Photo</span></div>
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Please take your time and be careful. Whatever industry you work in and whatever job you do, there is someone who loves you and is worried about you. Please return home safely to them. </div>
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-57012022672834974342013-04-16T13:13:00.001-07:002013-04-16T13:17:13.291-07:00For Boston<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had another post planned for today, but like others, I felt compelled to comment on yesterday's horrific events in Boston. My heart is breaking for the victims, their families & friends, for the runners, for the spectators, for the volunteers & first responders, for the city of Boston, and for the United States of America. <br />
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As a Canadian, I am proud to have neighbors to the south who value the same things we do: freedom, equality, free speech, the list goes on... When events like this occur, my heart breaks for you. As a country, you are my friends, and I am sick to see this happen to my friends. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPi2srREWUKe7hyphenhyphenpf57J6dd0auqPxhOW2aCYh69tJhroCpQGR-h9jcCt-R-TDL1g1wmr8NMWhuqCuFlyjg0BJEXuQ_preBWufzqrvweBmzxuQFsEzcSdQwAvOJCzuSvH3SH_MSq5lLUFB/s1600/o-MISTER-ROGERS-HELPERS-QUOTE-570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPi2srREWUKe7hyphenhyphenpf57J6dd0auqPxhOW2aCYh69tJhroCpQGR-h9jcCt-R-TDL1g1wmr8NMWhuqCuFlyjg0BJEXuQ_preBWufzqrvweBmzxuQFsEzcSdQwAvOJCzuSvH3SH_MSq5lLUFB/s320/o-MISTER-ROGERS-HELPERS-QUOTE-570.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
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Then, I saw this picture circulating through the internet. Suddenly, I felt something else. I felt hope. Hope that each of us standing up in Boston's defence and to show solidarity will show the evil in this world that they will not win. Because this quote is true. There is<strong> always</strong> more good in this world than evil. The community of Boston, the runner's community, the people in America, the people in North America, the people of the world, <strong>all of mankind </strong>will stand arm-in-arm. We are resilient. Whether it be by giving blood, donations, opening your homes, hugs, kind words, pictures on the internet, tweets, Facebook posts, going for a run, and tears shed. We all stand behind Boston and everyone affected by this horrific event. <br />
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Today, I run for Boston. And I run for hope. I hope that the victims and their families know that they are in the hearts and prayers of people from all around the world.<br />
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Today my thoughts and prayers are for Boston. </div>
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Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-7996114067691234392013-04-15T10:25:00.000-07:002013-04-15T10:25:36.052-07:00An Evening With OprahYesterday, I had an incredible experience. Myself and three of my best friends, (along with 14,000 other people) spent "An Evening with Oprah". Oprah's final stop of her Canadian tour ended with a last-minute additional stop: Saskatoon, SK. The tickets sold out and more than 14,000 women traveled to Credit Union Centre to hear Oprah speak.<br />
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After appetizers and a glass of wine, my girlfriends and I made our way to CUC (the big events centre). I hadn't really looked at our tickets, so I was shocked to see that we were in Row 9, on the floor. What does that mean? There were 8 rows of chairs in between us and Oprah on stage. Wow! They were incredible seats! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYRyUAA32eBxvUbG0pPalxKfzrmq8_vN9H7uufG1i9DgMpuDn0ymbZj0bSf0GlQwwCC1erdSgCjFNVluyv-DQXtE9g2N74RmzZ5b_KBICX4EPs-ovYaOKQTWU5INEGgknLOKzcNpqI961B/s1600/oprah8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYRyUAA32eBxvUbG0pPalxKfzrmq8_vN9H7uufG1i9DgMpuDn0ymbZj0bSf0GlQwwCC1erdSgCjFNVluyv-DQXtE9g2N74RmzZ5b_KBICX4EPs-ovYaOKQTWU5INEGgknLOKzcNpqI961B/s320/oprah8.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Before the show, looking at the stage from our seats. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Just as a little comparison, this is our view looking behind us. </span></div>
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The show was slated to start at 6:00 pm, but didn't get going until 6:30. The traffic was INSANE in the parking lot and the event organizers decided to hold off the event so most people would be in the building when it begs. I was so glad we had taken a shuttle and come early. Instead of fighting traffic, we were relaxing in our seats and visiting. </div>
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Soon enough, Oprah Winfrey was walking onto the stage and the applause was thunderous. I have to say, I am not an Oprah "super fan". I enjoyed her show, but only watched it occasionally. But, when Oprah walked on stage, I had goose bumps. To be in the presence of someone who has influenced so many lives was amazing. Our seats added to the program for me. She was so close, we could make out her facial expressions and it was so real watching her live on stage, not having to focus on the big screen from the back of the stadium. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8RwlAsg_ZelOAyPPRU1E1d-H1jr9Mf0EL2hdMMJZzkkpaCuuMB8qShi7zQIsm2gJ5bKLIYitY-d0WdGpJ5-rXBFGhBWunclNQu3lAG6R9xqySGpdLm8SrBntfoJXEWNNL0Ew49G0H0Bh/s1600/oprah2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8RwlAsg_ZelOAyPPRU1E1d-H1jr9Mf0EL2hdMMJZzkkpaCuuMB8qShi7zQIsm2gJ5bKLIYitY-d0WdGpJ5-rXBFGhBWunclNQu3lAG6R9xqySGpdLm8SrBntfoJXEWNNL0Ew49G0H0Bh/s320/oprah2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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My photos don't do this justice. Cameras were not allowed, but you could take pictures with your phones. I'm using my iPhone 4 and the quality leaves something to be desired. But, honestly, I don't even care. The fact that I was this close to Oprah was enough!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaoPbPZUX_pfl4HqSFYzfGtFS-LwskLIXLsCFTzyyzIywgwdeXMe250YDbaEFk-aFIUoxzeM2bQf6rVoJvE_2boBsXMollVCHpjlMPqaromklAG5Cw7VhmvYoqw97xvmQsoDMYwKrf1rCV/s1600/oprah.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaoPbPZUX_pfl4HqSFYzfGtFS-LwskLIXLsCFTzyyzIywgwdeXMe250YDbaEFk-aFIUoxzeM2bQf6rVoJvE_2boBsXMollVCHpjlMPqaromklAG5Cw7VhmvYoqw97xvmQsoDMYwKrf1rCV/s320/oprah.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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After she spoke for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, she did a question and answer period with one of her staff members. <br />
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I could write 10 posts on all of the things Oprah spoke about. I understand now why people brought notepads and took notes during her show. It was amazing and inspiring. Instead, I'll focus on one thing, that I think is doable for each and every one of us. At the end of every day, Oprah recommends making a list of 10 things that you are thankful for. By keeping a "Gratitude Journal", it makes you look at life differently. During the day, you find yourself looking for things to be thankful for. Some days, it's the little things like someone holding the door for you. Some days, it's big things, but every day you are looking for things to be thankful for. It changes your way of thinking from "I wish I had, I wish today had been...to I am thankful for. What an incredible message! <br />
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So, here is my list of what I am thankful for from last night: <br />
1. I am thankful for my children and their health. This isn't something I take for granted because my children's health wasn't always a guarantee. A day doesn't go by that I am not thankful that they are here with me today and are healthy and active. <br />
2. I am thankful for my husband. He is a kind, supportive, hard-working man who in the midst of difficult times encouraged me to take today and spend the afternoon with my friends because I needed that. The easy route would have been to ask me to stay home, but that's not the path he took. <br />
3. I am thankful for my extended family; my parents, brothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and my in-law extended family. I am thankful that I was raised and am surrounded by the kind of people who make me want to do my very best. <br />
4. I am thankful my father-in-law is with us today. (More on this story another day).<br />
5. I am thankful for my "old" friends. I am thankful that in elementary school I met people who would be by my side for my life. We don't see each other enough or spend enough time together, but I know they are always there and I know they will always be there for me. Spending the afternoon with these girls reminds me how fortunate I am. In every stage of life, I think we make different friends, new friends, and they are all important. But, it is nice to have people in your life who have known you your whole life. <br />
6. I am thankful for the country, province, town, and house I live in. I am thankful I live with freedom and peace. <br />
7. I am thankful for my health. These days, it seems like everyway you turn, someone is getting sick.<br />
8. I am thankful for the ability to laugh. Because I am so fortunate in my life, I can laugh. Deep, rumbling, uncontrolled-sort-of-ugly, teary-eyed laughter. We all have stress in our lives, but because I am surrounded by such incredible people, they help to bear some of that stress. Laughter really is the best medicine and when you can relax enough to have uncontrollable laughter is enlightening. <br />
9. I am thankful for modern medicine, both "eastern" and "western" varieties. I am thankful because modern medicine saved the lives of my sons. It has helped my father-in-law and helps ease his pain. Holistic medicine has helped many of my family members as well. <br />
10. I am thankful for the shuttle buses from CUC. Instead of sitting in traffic separately, waiting in a parking lot for an hour or more, my friends and I hopped a shuttle bus to a different non-crowded parking lot where our vehicles were waiting. We got to spend an extra half hour together, laughing and joking, instead of in a vehicle getting road rage. <br />
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So, there you have it. A brief recap of my "Evening With Oprah", and the first entry in my "Gratitude Journal". If you ever have the opportunity to listen to Oprah speak, I would highly recommend it. She was a captivating speaker and had the whole audience in awe. Her story was incredible and she spoke with warmth, passion, and a candour that made you feel like you were listening to an old friend. It was an amazingly uplifting day spent with good friends and a great message. <br />
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As Oprah would say "Turn up the volume on your life. Live out loud!"<br />
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<em>Question of the day: What are you most thankful for</em>? Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-71822010874630817982013-04-13T07:09:00.000-07:002013-04-13T07:09:29.010-07:00Strong Moms Empower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday, I took a pledge. A pledge to not judge other Moms, to not look down on others' decisions, to stop giving "the look". You know the one. I originally saw this pledge <a href="http://www.ruralmom.com/2013/04/strongmoms-empower-do-you.html?spref=tw">here</a>, on RuralMoms.com. They have a great article about "the look" and judging others, I'd recommend going to read it <a href="http://www.ruralmom.com/2013/04/strongmoms-empower-do-you.html?spref=tw">here.</a> </div>
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You can sign the pledge by visiting: <a href="http://strongmomsempower.com/">http://strongmomsempower.com/</a>. After you've signed, they give you a choice of a bunch of buttons to grab and share. I couldn't decide on just one, so I took three. :) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcgXHgge2yNbJ58GK4pkzFzr3IQBTuWum1vSKkOBrd7-9PG56WARQknr6mSRgXR4x9bInyWErkqX5_32qMON501P5am3n6Efu_pY0nHuLj73g2YNxEwB-6HhF10yH2L8YLAQxw54sKmGHJ/s1600/strong+momsquote3b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcgXHgge2yNbJ58GK4pkzFzr3IQBTuWum1vSKkOBrd7-9PG56WARQknr6mSRgXR4x9bInyWErkqX5_32qMON501P5am3n6Efu_pY0nHuLj73g2YNxEwB-6HhF10yH2L8YLAQxw54sKmGHJ/s1600/strong+momsquote3b.jpg" /></a></div>
I love this one. It's exactly how I feel. Before I had children, I had all the answers of what I was going to do. I wanted to be the perfect Mom. Now, I'm in the thick of it and some days, I consider everyone lucky if I don't run screaming out of the house. Don't get me wrong. I love my children with my whole heart, I would do anything for those little sweethearts. But being a mother isn't as easy as I thought. And it certainly doesn't make it any easier when your friends, neighbors, or family members are looking down at you for your parenting decisions and/or how you are doing things. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnve2hM_RrN8AlYtpjYJJFHM_D4IXTdc6AUiDPhcipa2LJum8mVPBn_NRWZ-gXbidhiefI-2r-mJ0UIUrQtL5HodyWhWKI7qJSNRyRUtnnFZ6Wln_jU4aUZXjolJgpSalnDL1DEtgvdefU/s1600/strongmomsquote2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnve2hM_RrN8AlYtpjYJJFHM_D4IXTdc6AUiDPhcipa2LJum8mVPBn_NRWZ-gXbidhiefI-2r-mJ0UIUrQtL5HodyWhWKI7qJSNRyRUtnnFZ6Wln_jU4aUZXjolJgpSalnDL1DEtgvdefU/s1600/strongmomsquote2b.jpg" /></a></div>
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We're all doing this the same way. One step at a time. There's no manual, no magic book to tell us exactly how to get our kid's to sleep through the night (and if there was, trust me, I would have paid big money for that thing). There's no "one way" to produce well-adjusted, happy, kind adults. And let's face it, that's what every parent wants. We want our children to grow up to be happy, successful, well-adjusted people. I think any mother would tell you she would do anything to know how to make that happen. </div>
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So, instead of judging that mom down the street who bottle fed right from day 1, or your cousin who breast fed until her child was 3...how about we just say "to each his own". And support one another. When you are shopping and you see children screaming and misbehaving, instead of looking at the mother and thinking "get your children to behave"....look a little closer. You'll see someone just like you. You might see how tired she is or how frustrated she is. Just remember...she doesn't want this to happen either, and she's doing the best she can. </div>
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I took the pledge. I pledge to not judge. I pledge to empower other moms. I pledge to support other women. When someone looks like they are at their witts end, I pledge to do something to help, not hurt. Because God knows those eye rolls, looks, and judgemental comments do hurt. I know I'm not the only one to say I've come home from an outing with my children and shed a couple tears over hurtful comments other women have said to me. </div>
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Please, consider taking the pledge too. Then share the button on Twitter, Facebook, wherever you can! Awareness is the first step towards change. Let's change!!</div>
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Take the pledge at <a href="http://strongmomsempower.com/">http://strongmomsempower.com/</a>. Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3629355065603990550.post-76044423093431448492013-04-12T14:31:00.000-07:002013-04-12T14:45:31.599-07:00Very Inspiring Blogger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-aFubbkLEiuQE0N5ktKpeu6V-umjfOLSNJM7zLWANV7v0jGHBV3byk3WMd43hHTKWQ1qCRG-FlD7hXQWtjT7C5p9uEQ0Z7yiD1zcZeI4vs32EPP0dZ6tcw7atFiXQOc5fXkJAW2RsNL7r/s1600/veryinspiringblogger.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-aFubbkLEiuQE0N5ktKpeu6V-umjfOLSNJM7zLWANV7v0jGHBV3byk3WMd43hHTKWQ1qCRG-FlD7hXQWtjT7C5p9uEQ0Z7yiD1zcZeI4vs32EPP0dZ6tcw7atFiXQOc5fXkJAW2RsNL7r/s1600/veryinspiringblogger.png" /></a></div>
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Wow! That's all I know how to say. Recently, I was nominated by Rebecca at <a href="http://heelsrunningtheworld.blogspot.com/">Running Around the World</a> as a Very Inspiring Blogger. I am honored that she considers my posts inspiring and interesting. And to be honest, I'm thrilled and a little overwhelmed. I can't stop smiling and I'm so dang excited that someone is reading my little blog. So, thank-you, thank-you, thank-you! I was also VERY honored to be in the same nomination as Heather at <a href="http://www.throughheatherslookingglass.com/">Through Heather's Looking Glass</a> and Rachel at <a href="http://www.runnerstales.com/">Runner's Tales</a>. These are two blogs I've been following and two incredible running ladies! I hadn't checked out Kimberly at <a href="http://www.loveeverymile.wordpress.com/">Love Every Mile</a> before, but I sure have now. Please bop over and check out <a href="http://heelsrunningtheworld.blogspot.com/">Rebecca</a>'s blog, it's awesome! I LOVED her Marathon recap and her travels through Europe. Keep up on the awesome posts <a href="http://heelsrunningtheworld.blogspot.com/">Rebecca!!</a> <br />
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Here are the rules: <br />
1. Thank and link back to the person who nominated you. <br />
2. Share 7 things about yourself. <br />
3. Nominate 15 other bloggers and comment on their blogs to let them know. <br />
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So, here we go...7 things about myself: <br />
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1. I love Disney. A lot. I am currently trying to determine how I will decorate my kid's playroom/family room in the basement (on a small budget) to look like a Disney park. If you have any suggestions or ideas, please let me know!!<br />
2. As of Tuesday, I am "officially" unemployed. Sort-of. I will be a full-time Mommy to my three small children, as well as volunteering on various boards and organizations in our community. I am excited and thankful for the opportunity I have to stay with my children. Truthfully, I am also feeling a little lost. I have been with the same company for 11 1/2 years...since I was 20. As silly as it sounds, I feel like a little bit of my identity has been taken away. <br />
3. I love fresh flowers. Well, almost any flower, I'm not a real carnation lover, but everything other than that, I love. I think a few fresh flowers on the table make the room "pretty". <br />
4. I am so lucky to still have my Gramma M. She is 85 years old, going on 55. She is active and healthy and is an inspiration to me. My Gramma is one of the kindest people I know and makes an effort to get t know everyone. I have never seen her in a bad mood and she keeps in touch with her entire family .(four children + spouses, 14 grandchildren +11 spouses, 14 great-grandchildren) Gramma makes friends wherever she goes and can always find a connection to each person she meets. My Gramma is the glue that keeps our family as close-knit as it is and she has taught us the value of family. <br />
5. I am secretly (well, not so secretly anymore) hoping to get picked for the<br />
runDisney Meet-up at the Tinkerbell Half Marathon. I actually get butterflies in my stomach and a little jittery when I think about it. Like right now...I have a big silly grin on my face and am already playing it over in my mind. Again. <br />
6. When I was young, I always wanted to be a writer. I loved writing everything: poems, stories, essays...loved it all. I won several awards from when I was aged 8 - 17. In Grade 12, I placed 2nd in the province (Canada's version of a state) in an essay competition. But for some reason, I never pursued it further. Guess it's not that far-fetched that I wanted to start blogging. :)<br />
7. I love spring. And I really, really wish it would hurry up and get here. I hate to be a complainer...I am very fortunate to live where I do. We have fresh water, clean air, and our freedom....things that many in this world do not. We have also had snow for almost six months straight! And there is still lots of it left, last night it was -15 C and the weatherman is calling for another blizzard this weekend. It is starting to feel like winter 2013 is never ending! It's not uncommon that we get a snow in April, but usually it has melted by now. I am so ready for this winter to be over and spring to come. I can't wait to get outside! <br />
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Nominations:<br />
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1. <a href="http://werundisney.com/">We Run Disney</a><br />
2. <a href="http://www.runningatdisney.com/">Running At Disney</a><br />
3. <a href="http://flowerscroon.com/">Flowers croon (where the birds sing words)</a><br />
4. <a href="http://2princessesontherun.wordpress.com/">2 Princesses on the Run</a><br />
5. <a href="http://www.justmeandmyrunningshoes.com/">...Just Me and My Running Shoes...</a><br />
6. <a href="http://www.pumpkintoprincess.com/">Pumpkin to Princess</a><br />
7. <a href="http://www.runningtowardtheprize.com/">Running Toward the Prize</a><br />
8. <a href="http://www.liverungrow.com/">Live, Run, Grow</a><br />
9. <a href="http://www.twinsruninourfamily.com/">Twins Run In Our Family</a><br />
10. <a href="http://www.runninghappilyeverafter.com/">Running Happily Ever After</a><br />
11. <a href="http://skinnygeekwithin.blogspot.ca/">Finding The Skinny Geek Within</a><br />
12. <a href="http://menubyvicky.com/">Menybyvicky</a><br />
13. <a href="http://throughheatherslookingglass.com/">Through Heathers Looking Glass</a><br />
14. <a href="http://www.runningrandom.blogspot.ca/">Running Random</a><br />
15. <a href="http://www.ctalleyrun.blogspot.ca/">C Talley Run</a><br />
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Some of these are blogs I have been following for years and some I have only found in the last few months through Twitter and other bloggers. Some of them have tons of followers and some only a few. But they all have something in common: THEY ARE AWESOME! Each of these bloggers write <em>interesting & inspiring </em>posts. You should all be incredibly proud of yourselves because you truly are inspiring! You've inspired me to get back to working out and taking control of my life. Speaking of which....it's time for Day 3 of Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred. <br />
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Thanks again to Rebecca at <a href="http://heelsrunningtheworld.blogspot.com/">Running Around the World</a> for the nomination and for all the awesome, inspiring posts you share! I would have been nominating you if you hadn't beat me to the punch. <br />
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I have an exciting day planned on Sunday and can't wait to share it with you. Have a great weekend!!<br />
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<br />Everyday Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13657019279516224780noreply@blogger.com8