tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53648024294039043722024-02-18T17:44:42.826-08:00Alfabet SoupDanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-37767118586324575352015-08-27T12:54:00.001-07:002015-08-27T12:54:36.374-07:00VolunteerismOne of my passions is being a volunteer! I love volunteering. Volunteers are some of the most selfless people on the planet because they do the job for free, because they believe in the cause, because they want to make the world a better place.<br />
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I came across a great post today about volunteering. Following are 9 inspirational quotes about volunteering (<a href="http://blogs.volunteermatch.org/engagingvolunteers/2015/08/27/9-quotes-to-inspire-your-volunteers-and-yourself/" target="_blank">source</a>: <em>Engaging Volunteers - 9 Quotes to Inspire Your Volunteers (and Yourself) by Tessa Srebro</em>): <br />
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<em>“</em><em>Wherever you turn, you can find someone who needs you. Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it. Remember, you don’t live in the world all of your own.”</em><br />~Albert Schweitzer<br />
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<em>“</em><em>Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve…. You don’t have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”</em>~Martin Luther King, Jr.<br />
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<em>“</em><em>You can study government and politics in school, but the best way to really understand the process is to volunteer your time.”</em>~Rob McKenna<br />
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<em>“</em><em>Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.”</em>~Elizabeth Andrew<br />
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<em>“You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.”</em>~Winston Churchill<br />
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<em>“Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation’s compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain loving one another.”</em>~Erma Bombeck<br />
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<em>“</em><em>You may not have saved a lot of money in your life, but if you have saved a lot of heartaches for other folks, you are a pretty rich man.”</em>~Seth Parker<br />
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<em>“</em><em>Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in”.</em>~Author Unknown<br />
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<em>“</em><em>The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.”</em>~Oscar Wilde<br />
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My favorite quote of all time regarding volunteers:<br />
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"There's nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer." - Lt. Col. James Doolittle, quoted after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. <br />
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<strong>Let's take a look at some volunteers</strong>:<br />
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Red Cross Volunteer</div>
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Salvation Army Volunteers</div>
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Habitat for Humanity Volunteers</div>
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Boy/Cub Scout Volunteers</div>
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Girl Scout Volunteer</div>
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And let's not forget about these volunteers!</div>
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Get out there! Volunteer!DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-26229631856088287582015-08-25T10:25:00.000-07:002015-08-25T10:25:35.954-07:00Girl Scout Camping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Girl Scouting is a HUGE part of our lives. I have been a Girl Scout leader since my older daughters (now in their 20s) were in 4th grade! Now, our youngest daughter (and last child) is in Scouts. </div>
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This past weekend, my troop went on their first camping trip together. Some girls had experience with camping already by going on family camping trips. For others, though, this was their first time camping at all.</div>
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Girl Scouts is all about safety so there is a progression that girls and leaders must follow before they get to primitive tent camping. The first step is "cabin" camping which is what we did here.</div>
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We're off! A few of the girls and me as we struck out for our weekend adventures. </div>
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Don't think guys can be Girl Scout leaders? Think again! "Army" makes a great Girl Scout leader and he's man enough to do it! Here, he's teaching the girls (and leaders) about finding their "pace count" before showing them how to use compass skills to find their way.</div>
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During our outdoor lessons, the girls discovered this baby box turtle. They named him Snappy!</div>
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We had an awesome Camp Ranger who taught the girls about growing foods, sustainable energy sources, and raising animals like chickens and pigs. Here, he's showing them the difference between fresh eggs and those bought at the grocery store.</div>
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Girl Scouting is about learning new skills and camping is no different! The girls are required to plan their own menus for the weekend, cook it, serve it, and clean up afterwards. Here, this patrol is preparing our Friday night dinner of hot dogs, french fries, and fruit salad.</div>
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The last day. The rain held off until we were packing up on Sunday morning! With everyone dressed in their rain gear, we packed it up and headed home. The leaders were exhausted!</div>
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<br />DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-74020638049999412622015-08-25T08:48:00.003-07:002015-08-25T08:48:57.144-07:0016 Photos I find BEAUTIFULI may have mentioned in one of my previous posts that I love to make lists. So, here's one for you! This is a list of 20 photos that I find absolutely beautiful. Do you agree?<br />
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1. First and foremost, Jesus. This is a painting by Akiane, the girl, who at the age of 4 painted this portrait of Jesus after she experienced death. If you don't know her story, read it <a href="https://akiane.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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2. I've had this photo in my Pinterest pics for a long time. I simply find this photo to be beautiful.</div>
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3. I love pics of animals (as you'll see). This one spoke to me. I love the contrast of the blue eyes against the black and white.</div>
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4. Paris. Ahhh, Paris. I love Paris and I love vintage things. This is both. </div>
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5. I love sunflowers. Sunflowers follow the sun and, to me, are absolutely beautiful. For me, they are symbolic of following the Son.</div>
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6. I may have mentioned that I love animal pics so you might see a couple of these. This is such a sweet photo. The loyalty of some animals is to be commended and admired.</div>
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7. This is one of my ultimate views. I'm a mountain girl at heart having grown up in the Rockies. Simple, peaceful, beautiful.<br />
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8. I love the colors in this photo. God gives us such beautiful things to look at.<br />
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9. I love Dobermans. Despite what they are typically portrayed as, Dobermans are actually sweet, loving animals. I love this photo.</div>
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10. I love this photo of our American icon. </div>
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11. This flower is so beautiful. I love the stark white against the deep purple and the little splash of yellow. </div>
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12. This just speaks to me for some reason.</div>
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13. The craftsmanship that went into building this staircase is amazing! It's stunning.</div>
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14. This looks so peaceful and quiet to me. A place I could just sit, relax, and be.</div>
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15. Love the colorful bricks on this walkway!</div>
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16. This photo is extremely beautiful to me. It speaks volumes!</div>
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I could list a myriad of other beautiful photos, but that could take all day!</div>
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I would love to see what you think is beautiful.</div>
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<br />DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-83007282905762777972015-08-13T09:53:00.000-07:002015-08-13T10:42:47.882-07:0010 Things I believeI don't know about you but I love seeing (or reading about) what others are doing or what they are interested in. I think it's that insatiable human curiosity that drives us to wonder about others. That's why we spend countless hours on social media, right? People are actually curious about <em>us</em>, too. Imagine that.<br>
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So, in light of that.... here are 10 things that I believe (in case you were curious).<br>
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<strong>I believe that lists are good!</strong> I'm a lister, a scheduler, a planner. Lists help me stay on track and keep me organized. You know that proverbial "box" that everyone tells you think outside of? Well, I LIKE the box! Don't get me wrong, though. I do like jumping outside of it now and then.<br>
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<strong>I believe Fall is the best season.</strong> I love Fall. Fall is beautiful. The weather turns cool. There is no more mugginess or knats! The leaves turn all sorts of bright colors. Fall is when the comfort food comes out - soups, stews, chilis. I love sitting on my front porch in my wooden swing (ok, I would if I had one) and sipping a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Oh, yes. Fall is good.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDvI1tPt5EfFlJSf4LnyWMKLGR0HC0ytzGrmpt6ggkP8hV90QSSqhScH-54TRDm74keN4iS82sJ1ZObt17YlouPrdZcErHXy8ImqkrFhNYk8sRX9-kD16Q6wRWXtmIsGhnb4IOPKxMeU/s640/blogger-image--241703723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDvI1tPt5EfFlJSf4LnyWMKLGR0HC0ytzGrmpt6ggkP8hV90QSSqhScH-54TRDm74keN4iS82sJ1ZObt17YlouPrdZcErHXy8ImqkrFhNYk8sRX9-kD16Q6wRWXtmIsGhnb4IOPKxMeU/s640/blogger-image--241703723.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I believe integrity is the best character trait.</strong><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> If you have integrity, everything else will fall into place.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMnyNe1I-5j0TGD_1JlO97HnU2QBEF5Y9lBGdExfUSJz8bqM2YQwytyp7JL3FugacSVb-SC2eFLAvk2q2iiMGLAFrDg8MoNpvTn4v9NjlO3nWMEg6NfFwGuUVN-Myujp5XDl2GoSXKlv0/s640/blogger-image-2059282743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMnyNe1I-5j0TGD_1JlO97HnU2QBEF5Y9lBGdExfUSJz8bqM2YQwytyp7JL3FugacSVb-SC2eFLAvk2q2iiMGLAFrDg8MoNpvTn4v9NjlO3nWMEg6NfFwGuUVN-Myujp5XDl2GoSXKlv0/s640/blogger-image-2059282743.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>I believe you get more with sugar than with vinegar. </b> It's not always to easy to keep my mouth shut or to say something nice. In fact, it sometimes goes against the very grain of my being. However, I've found this to be true more often than not!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTK85NikUeZCBwyrNF2cbMJ63Bv71QkKM7LEiTHqnALyu7iFhVzSD-v7DR8dZVnHbdLahjq7MONfa5ycZG-TSdsQbp13LYw9rJBoFBQB61T_3jKSmpoYdM1S36D9PUt-a01-ZPYtgsoUA/s640/blogger-image--706664905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTK85NikUeZCBwyrNF2cbMJ63Bv71QkKM7LEiTHqnALyu7iFhVzSD-v7DR8dZVnHbdLahjq7MONfa5ycZG-TSdsQbp13LYw9rJBoFBQB61T_3jKSmpoYdM1S36D9PUt-a01-ZPYtgsoUA/s640/blogger-image--706664905.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>However, a good bout of temper is healthy. </b> Let's face it - a good temper tantrum does us good sometimes. As long as no one gets hurt, of course! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9wzMrynB-_W1acVJKXTcjJoigqmRHOao8yxFm6rICBqsyJ10vn78yMPNzhXmcgQvEnN6kQ3SkKg5ojWqeg4zr0S3VJyl0-63bmDo3ZftdrweOojXwUBI63ikmRkWZIeFzkDRCkT_KDo/s640/blogger-image-1597686248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9wzMrynB-_W1acVJKXTcjJoigqmRHOao8yxFm6rICBqsyJ10vn78yMPNzhXmcgQvEnN6kQ3SkKg5ojWqeg4zr0S3VJyl0-63bmDo3ZftdrweOojXwUBI63ikmRkWZIeFzkDRCkT_KDo/s640/blogger-image-1597686248.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>I believe juicing is a great health benefit. </b> I've proven this to myself and to my husband who was skeptical at first. We love juicing and how it makes us feel!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7VSd-eOEQn21zmHFpJb7SihFxmGykm2BbDMpyIkGQ8vtKqiOzXgsX2BLbzh2B87Nv2yoCsNM3MpzonTS8pT7GfmSmxEvdvIa5ITgj41jJDOXZPkZxtYMohNi1wFun1qNjg51SrlpI1U/s640/blogger-image--1998865071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7VSd-eOEQn21zmHFpJb7SihFxmGykm2BbDMpyIkGQ8vtKqiOzXgsX2BLbzh2B87Nv2yoCsNM3MpzonTS8pT7GfmSmxEvdvIa5ITgj41jJDOXZPkZxtYMohNi1wFun1qNjg51SrlpI1U/s640/blogger-image--1998865071.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>You must love yourself first. </b> I had to learn this the hard way. It took me many years to figure it out but once I did interesting things started to happen in my life. Sometimes I forget but I always go back to it! It's SO important!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijndgOfDwT17Axw36dOpwQrzxfcPhx4lfnA0SQIUUljL4BSQtPTTi7PCP4kCfIAY3zbTvMpbrVDR-8pfl1G75IlMYPkNXLm2n9cJD9ZWLHK7AVUF8gTY01vawvj7QiWz4qCIiE0pAQ6is/s640/blogger-image-1617118902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijndgOfDwT17Axw36dOpwQrzxfcPhx4lfnA0SQIUUljL4BSQtPTTi7PCP4kCfIAY3zbTvMpbrVDR-8pfl1G75IlMYPkNXLm2n9cJD9ZWLHK7AVUF8gTY01vawvj7QiWz4qCIiE0pAQ6is/s640/blogger-image-1617118902.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>You must treat yourself now and then.</b> I'm not just talking about chocolate here (although that's always a good method)! I'm talking about whatever it is that brings peace to your soul. Could be a shopping spree, a quiet room with a good book, a spa day....or a box of chocolates you buy for yourself. Whatever it is, do it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_ou_pShad_-dw9U3JGVD994Yf7MCFrLqiRMEwduxAMQdDfk1Fe24Zeixacb40TYyaBigTbbaC8UrfSgWmWmqUSp2jrVlXjJMY1VTJB1Abfr_f2jErQXLptD_Rtam22iZmXRkjvgStA0/s640/blogger-image--2099147430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_ou_pShad_-dw9U3JGVD994Yf7MCFrLqiRMEwduxAMQdDfk1Fe24Zeixacb40TYyaBigTbbaC8UrfSgWmWmqUSp2jrVlXjJMY1VTJB1Abfr_f2jErQXLptD_Rtam22iZmXRkjvgStA0/s640/blogger-image--2099147430.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Bachelor in Paradise is a meat market.</b> 'Nuff said.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cHuBV03M2K7sa5eCksmHfESE3vn6CNxKiJcniBkXt6Lz57sRNXvTc3IbBFCtuLxM4gxFtN7LL1T_RfjZMUywm9Ol-Og0SwJU_4y3LLDfNWww2dvVjVejZaVIV_hRY1nfOg-mBVyuDyo/s640/blogger-image-436812198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cHuBV03M2K7sa5eCksmHfESE3vn6CNxKiJcniBkXt6Lz57sRNXvTc3IbBFCtuLxM4gxFtN7LL1T_RfjZMUywm9Ol-Og0SwJU_4y3LLDfNWww2dvVjVejZaVIV_hRY1nfOg-mBVyuDyo/s640/blogger-image-436812198.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>I believe in ghosts.</b> Yes, I do! I've seen them with my own eyes. I've seen them while in the presence of another person that I trust (my mother). However, I don't believe they are necessarily evil like the tv shows depict. I've never once had an encounter where the ghost was evil. They were simply there. And most of them looked very similar to this picture - a solid white mist. The ones I saw were actually less transparent than this. They were more solid but still misty. Although, the ghost in my parent's house is a solid black mist. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjdDS7kMTxD1RfEiEYNBE5gIIGH-ALDbXaj-3FCAdG2XX0Rf8EJLZlb6GgvVssvB5u8kFaWcVltq3J8gmBPEYVV00E6lcQiUIfQuE8wqhpEuWgOdcy-JZb6d37tSLj7tJhDvThJAl6tU/s640/blogger-image-1824091885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjdDS7kMTxD1RfEiEYNBE5gIIGH-ALDbXaj-3FCAdG2XX0Rf8EJLZlb6GgvVssvB5u8kFaWcVltq3J8gmBPEYVV00E6lcQiUIfQuE8wqhpEuWgOdcy-JZb6d37tSLj7tJhDvThJAl6tU/s640/blogger-image-1824091885.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So, these are some of the things I believe. I would love to know what yours are!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></span></div>
</div>DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-31589884741341225192015-08-13T08:37:00.001-07:002015-08-13T08:37:56.564-07:00Hodge Podge BlogSo, if you're reading my blog you may have noticed that there are some things that don't quite match up. My blog button doesn't match the theme. If you're anal like me, this might drive you just slightly crazy.<br />
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I apologize!!!!!<br />
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Over the next month or so I'll be rebranding my blog, so <strong><em>please</em></strong> bear with me.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0hQxB8eol8uUTwEeUiZBM7PX1bu7VVGwyIx5H9aIEH00QfxfC-UFTnykBRBVqBbHV785rpUrlwlAZb7hq15E-xPNlUwr4nIAQtQLmDjJXLuR3_Ro_9ugonzrWqpx6f4x2GC9_92R3U8/s1600/keep-calm-and-bear-with-me-please.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0hQxB8eol8uUTwEeUiZBM7PX1bu7VVGwyIx5H9aIEH00QfxfC-UFTnykBRBVqBbHV785rpUrlwlAZb7hq15E-xPNlUwr4nIAQtQLmDjJXLuR3_Ro_9ugonzrWqpx6f4x2GC9_92R3U8/s320/keep-calm-and-bear-with-me-please.png" width="274" /></a></div>
DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-50763106250055453332015-08-10T04:21:00.001-07:002015-08-10T04:55:06.426-07:00Our Classroom for 2015-16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today's the day we start school! Our daughter has been so excited about it. I figured I would post some pictures of our classroom for this year. </div>
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We've had some changes since last year's classroom post. Last year, we had access to our basement. However, one of our sons moved back in with us so he now occupies that space. So, we're using the dining room as our classroom.</div>
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This will change again next year as we're in a rental house right now. Long story - maybe for another post. </div>
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But, here it is for now:</div>
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I've used just about every inch of available wall space. This looks into our kitchen. I made the letters with my Cricut (which I love!). This wall is not quite finished. I plan to put some inspirational posters in the blank space. </div>
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The small blank space to the left of the white board will hold a smaller white board. This will be our "Twitter" section where A can write anything she wants for the day - a thought, expression, question, etc.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlw1yBtxmXHEimvqmH1RgXDHuHrq8NrNJP1OrczOD1V75lKcHSdNapS8bo0KKMKf1fbG8B9svjFVXcrAsGTKhjXBBXku8-fdIqOZlu00ysaLYrgVQLfyEJbxEnJFNBZoBBbdVR0JddiQ/s640/20150810_070956.jpg" /> </div>
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Below is our book shelf. I'm limited to one right now as we have limited space. For now, it holds what we need. The black mesh basket on the top shelf holds my cutouts and things for future bulletin boards. The second shelf holds various books and reference material we may need. The third shelf holds our curriculum and school binders. The next one down holds our library books and other binders I need for various other outside activities that I'm involved in (homeschool group and Girl Scouts). The two box containers on the bottom holds our hole punchers and various things.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY1x57X42rdDaJ1qrE-_yp2jthQVlq4GPC3mAMuoQzkM54HgRZJfgS45EZZCsvEDitrC3GOblxZuhKB6ldmI2jiL9PXrpGRttx7GUMB2DiH_5YRjPzG0VyxXpDTgXBydNbvWsfGIjWsWg/s640/20150810_070925.jpg" /> </div>
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This is A's reading log that she is required to fill out everyday. It's posted on the side of the white bookshelf. I made the blue letters with my Cricut. The background paper is simply 12x12 scrapbook paper. </div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9i6ZU6JaTRSlsIWKlIOpn4ZicPne36D-nwMqjh0ne6PHrTVN_kEWZvkr52ejg0xOxhJrPrPm1rqj1zfH_aLdPZ9KMe1qnyBqLW7iIvzKRY_EiGJcQub1CEs2Y8bqIePAOMIzb4Mri3Wk/s640/20150810_070858.jpg" /></div>
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Below is what I like to call our bulletin walls. I like to post things in each section that are relevant to that subject - obviously! These are not finished! Soon, a poster of the presidents will go in the History section as we're doing a lot of government stuff this year. The bottom portions of the sections will be for her to display her work if she chooses.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4A28fbwM36HfpWka49TNo-5_J4tLqJ-pPCRzEEPjhwZ6r9fI4sz8Omk1So0cCsVA8sRD6cCzJGWa831ju4cDwmlmWYFGdxUR39bnS6JG0MBxNYAZfyIbu531TIeprqEObKXmfFUn_0Fk/s640/20150810_070835.jpg" /></div>
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The "Popcorn Sentences" is my bulletin board for the English section on a different wall. I love having these visuals for her! And for me. I make most of this with my Cricut. The blue background is a cheap plastic tablecloth from the dollar store! Who needs expensive butcher paper?</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxX8AYk8HqIm0GS9EV0hSdbewc-siQPJR5Y352_p8qGGYiaDYCZATvf81Z6-xATPAY0AOSdseX9xk8GSB4RTor-JFxwk5Wai2x0D0hKadngM1YBmjkaylXld_5p1HI4_h1Ub75bPXAGY/s640/20150810_070823.jpg" /></div>
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So, this is the entire English wall. Below the blue bulletin board we have a dry-erase calendar that we got from the dollar store. She marks through the days as they pass. Next to that is just a little anchor chart on "main ideas." Below the calendar is a Word Collection flipbook that I made using Dinah Zike's Big Book of Books. When A comes across a word, she can write it in the appropriate section. It comes off the wall easily. It's hung using small black paper clips with a ring through it. The rings are hung on thumb tacks. Next to that is a "Grammar Guide" anchor chart that lists examples of adverbs, adjectives, etc. The Word Wall..... oh, I love this! This will be used with our curriculum and will change as we work through the chapters. She will list vocabulary words here. We used a piece of plexiglass that we had cut to our specifications so that it is dry-erase. I simply glued scrapbook paper to the back of it and used Command strips to hang it.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24kCXAYHqFnrVL4Gy2UBEP7NFurjGF0TavtnvolemnVOqiDLb_sYTsf92Yldh14or5m98usvjuialPWUwWBWoS-PUD4J2BujzgDpTexeDa-iBPNEtnJ7-jI0rp-8_oXVwqSzo_Vd2hmM/s640/20150810_070812.jpg" /></div>
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This is the overall view of our classroom/dining room. Still a work in progress but I love it, for now. I dream of the day when we can have a dedicated room - but, this works well for us now.</div>
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By the way, I've learned to stop apologizing for our dining room when we have guests over. This is our life. Why apologize?! </div>
DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-21181137486456277352015-08-06T07:44:00.001-07:002015-08-06T07:44:51.960-07:00Terrible Blogger!I have to admit - I'm a terrible blogger. I have the greatest intentions of keeping up with it and I usually have a lot of great ideas. Getting it from my head to the screen, however, is another matter entirely. I see all these really, super cool blogs out there from really, super cool bloggers and I wonder, "how do they do it?" <br />
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If you scroll down a bit you'll notice my last post was, like, over a year ago! But hey, I had really good intentions.....<br />
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So, I'm testing myself to see if I can keep it up this year. We're always crazy busy but I'm a scheduler - I like to schedule things. Having a schedule is good. For me. For my sanity. We're homeschoolers so that alone takes up a lot of time. But we're also a BIG Girl Scout family. I have a very active troop with a lot of very active girls. I also help support my hubby (I don't even want to think about HIS schedule because that makes me have heart palpatations!).<br />
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Just give me some chocolate and it will be ok....<br />
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Stay tuned..... <br />
DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-33182157099852736072014-07-08T11:40:00.002-07:002014-07-08T11:40:26.387-07:00Our Classroom! On The Cheap!During our previous 12 years of homeschooling we never had a separate room that we used for a classroom. We used the dining room and the kitchen table. We were completely fine with that. Now, however, we're in a different house that has a finished basement that we're able to use as both an office (hubby works from home) and a classroom! We're so thrilled about this!<br />
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This is the beginning. We're doing things on the cheap for now. We're searching for the perfect table but for now we're using a long fold-up table and a long wooden door set on two tv tray stands. It actually gives us a lot of work space and I love it. Since we're renting this house until we buy sometime next year (we recently moved back to the Atlanta area) we are trying not to put nails in the walls to hang stuff so the white board is held by an easel in the corner. The maps are are hung with the sticky adhesive stuff.</div>
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I needed a place to store our MANY maps that we purchased. I didn't want to keep them folded away. We hung them in the closet where we're keeping most of our supplies. This works quite well for our needs.</div>
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"A" has decided she doesn't want to wait another three weeks to start school. I'm still doing some planning but I've been giving her some busy work to do. By the way, she dressed herself this morning after her bath - hence the mismatched top and skirt. But, she's got her trusted companion, Sofie, to help her with those vocabulary words.<br />
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We're still working on some storage and other things but those will come. I love to get ideas for homeschool spaces from Pinterest. I'd love to see your homeschool room! </div>
<br />DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-71645429499228796722014-07-03T14:08:00.002-07:002014-07-03T14:08:44.622-07:00Box Turtles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We had an unexpected little treat come to visit us the other day. A cute little box turtle came to lay her eggs by our front porch steps. My hubby and A were on their way out the door when they spotted her.<br />
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She laid several eggs, covered them back up, and went on her merry way. We haven't studied turtles before so I thought this was a great opportunity!<br />
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We'll be following the progress and will post more as time goes on. In the meantime, here's a few educational tidbits....<br />
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Box turtles are found in a variety of locations throughout the Eastern United States and some other areas (see below). They are typically terrestrial which means they live on land as opposed to water. However, they can occasionally be found soaking in a puddle.<br />
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Box turtles like a variety of things to eat: mushrooms, grapes, berries, and other fruits, and will occasionally eat a worm, slug, or insect. They live long lives - up to 50 years or more! Females nest in the summer and will typically lay three to eight eggs. Our little turtle (above) is shown "excavating" her nest.<br />
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Male box turtles typically have red eyes!<br />
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Check out some more cool facts about box turtles <a href="http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/eastern_box_turtle.htm" target="_blank">here</a>!<br />
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<br />DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-76953766320434603082014-07-02T06:04:00.001-07:002014-07-03T04:46:09.279-07:00Food Origins<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3Aeliu3vVEMR2XPw9W-HhYOOthE6PjQUXUUOQE_H5d7gnhhhThC6EdVtKhhqO4_g1lPgfgUdsF7nfewYGfGodDt2IIudxRHiVANktgKyMHqqXioUItU6jmf-2tWQDJYQu1wdvkEdDl4/s640/blogger-image--1609537035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3Aeliu3vVEMR2XPw9W-HhYOOthE6PjQUXUUOQE_H5d7gnhhhThC6EdVtKhhqO4_g1lPgfgUdsF7nfewYGfGodDt2IIudxRHiVANktgKyMHqqXioUItU6jmf-2tWQDJYQu1wdvkEdDl4/s640/blogger-image--1609537035.jpg"></a></div><br>
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Our son, K, who is living with us for a little while, has always been a trivia buff. During a family dinner of spaghetti the conversation turned to foods that originated in the United States. He proceeded to inform us of foods that originated in the US and those that didn't. I could see a mini-lesson coming on as hubby had to make sure K was correct.<br>
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But before we get down to the actual list, it's always good to have a little background for you trivia buffs....<br>
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Some foods that we think of as truly American didn't actually have their start here. Many dishes have originated in other countries and then were modified (Americanized, I like to say) or evolved into what we know them as today.<br>
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Apple pie, hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, chocolate, jelly beans, ice cream, steak, potato salad, watermelon all originated in other countries and were brought to America by the colonists and immigrants. Many native foods play a key role in Americanized dishes but don't tell the whole story. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJJD9h_KbcgBW-H5oswcw4yWNe6myYMN4OYXTZ5_6i_p7EncHPIc21nWxDZ19CJAOKf1MnzFuL0o8eOFE8AiGuxaNxeUpz_7bz0JErIatTlfH8FQNoIPfakpl6WIwGukikyjP-6g48R8/s640/blogger-image--409852989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJJD9h_KbcgBW-H5oswcw4yWNe6myYMN4OYXTZ5_6i_p7EncHPIc21nWxDZ19CJAOKf1MnzFuL0o8eOFE8AiGuxaNxeUpz_7bz0JErIatTlfH8FQNoIPfakpl6WIwGukikyjP-6g48R8/s640/blogger-image--409852989.jpg"></a></div><br>
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Native Americans ate corn, squash, and beans. These foods are known as the "The Three Sisters" and were consumed by several Native American tribes. Several varieties of nuts, vegetables, mammals, and fish are also indigenous to America such as buffalo, bison, and wild salmon (Alaska, of course). Some indigenous recipes included succotash, cornflakes, and baked squash.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIV6BWCVOwSl2hOD6XAsn034GW73ybgXWwWyTMg09WfKa-edfo_5Piiu4bl8NdQgplITke5hQ48C_kqyt1J3PW_Yv_swXjYbhXhWJFgGk_qucWgfMZz4Zx5s4KSZJf4KZoGy6dlU9sBJc/s640/blogger-image-1600038338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIV6BWCVOwSl2hOD6XAsn034GW73ybgXWwWyTMg09WfKa-edfo_5Piiu4bl8NdQgplITke5hQ48C_kqyt1J3PW_Yv_swXjYbhXhWJFgGk_qucWgfMZz4Zx5s4KSZJf4KZoGy6dlU9sBJc/s640/blogger-image-1600038338.jpg"></a></div><br>
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Many plants, animals, and spices were introduced by the "Old World" to the "New World" such as pigs, oranges, apples, cattle, grapes, onions, olives, cabbage, lettuce, carrots, watermelon, peas, etc.<br>
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<b>Foods originated in the US (sort of):</b><br>
<br>According to The Food Timeline, "American" foods fall into six different categories (because we're a melting pot, after all!):</div><div><br></div><div><b>Native foods:</b> "The Three Sisters" plus indigenous nuts, veggies, fish, and animals</div><div><br></div><div><b>Ethnic blends:</b> foods mix when diverse cultures settle into a region: Chop Suey</div><div><br></div><div><b>Hybrid dishes:</b> Old world recipes (say, from England) that use New World ingredients: cornbread</div><div><br></div><div><b>Regional specialties:</b> specific tastes or dishes based on region: tex-mex</div><div><br></div><div><b>Manufactured foods:</b> typically produced in America - moon pies, Kool-Aid, Jell-O, Mac and Cheese....</div><div><br></div><div><b>Generic traditions and food fads:</b> these can often be traced back to the old world - Chex Mix, corn dogs, Rice Krispie Treats (who knew, right?)</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTasTmepoDi-GJ4Cu0WWmIhfZ8J4VwaIT5NaZsJs4496aKxSc8vvTkfMdc3q7tqAjHjPIKl1vubZqV0Un3ksJeKgsG75hS_W1QfP3de06mq3AVLObzJX_nafJJYJFYJgvRjrKm7anzL4o/s640/blogger-image--471593795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTasTmepoDi-GJ4Cu0WWmIhfZ8J4VwaIT5NaZsJs4496aKxSc8vvTkfMdc3q7tqAjHjPIKl1vubZqV0Un3ksJeKgsG75hS_W1QfP3de06mq3AVLObzJX_nafJJYJFYJgvRjrKm7anzL4o/s640/blogger-image--471593795.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>
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So, there you have it! I have to admit that we were slightly disappointed to know that the all-American favorite foods at baseball games didn't originate here!</div><div><br></div><div>Source: http://www.foodtimeline.org/usa.html</div><div><br></div><div>Happy Eating!!</div>
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</div></div>DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-21419358487863203412014-07-01T09:43:00.002-07:002014-07-01T09:43:32.070-07:00New Homeschool Journey<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
It's been some time.... ok, a really long time.... but we're back and starting a new homeschool journey. Our last child, "A", has been in public and private schools for the last four years since Kindergarten. Now, we're at a point where we're able to bring her home to educate her. So, our journey begins and Alfabet Soup is reborn.</div>
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I'll start by introducing you to us....<br />
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This is "A".....<br />
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We're heavily involved in Girl Scouts and this was a trip to the Georgia Aquarium recently. She was reading about the Pacific Reef. Here's a great live cam of the Pacific Reef, in case you're interested: <a href="http://www.apl.tv/pacific-reef.htm" target="_blank">click here</a> (oh, LOOK! There's a Dori fish!) A is the last of our five children. It's almost like starting over as our other kids are now adults and off on their own. Our homeschooling adventures with her should be quite interesting....I've always said she's a little ball of dynamite - she is all four of the other kids wrapped up into one little kid. She definitely has her own mind - and likes to tell others what's on it!</div>
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This is me....</div>
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<br />Homeschool mom of five, Girl Scout leader, advocate for women and children's issues, and full-time college student. For the past several years I've been very interested in helping the fight against human trafficking. I'm also a Pinterest junkie, I admit. Lots of great ideas on there! <br />
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I would love to connect with other homeschoolers! I'm always looking for great ideas - aren't we all?! I'm looking forward to meeting other homescoolers through their blogs. All the ones I knew before have grown children now! <br />
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Thanks for stopping by! Can't wait to see what this new journey has in store!<br />
DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-20376931272404949162012-09-08T10:52:00.000-07:002012-09-08T10:52:08.023-07:00Yummy Smoothies!Quick workout update: this past week we squeezed in three days of workouts. Due to work restrictions that was all we could accomplish. But, three days is better than none, right?! I didn't eat as clean this past week either as I should be. I'm not quite off the wagon but.... next week will be better.<br />
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I wanted to share this site I found that has recipes for great smoothies. <a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Oatmeal_Smoothies" target="_blank">The Yummy Life "Make-Ahead Oatmeal Smoothies"</a> are awesome! I try to get my oatmeal in everyday - usually in the mornings for breakfast - but find I can't always get through a bowl of it. This site was recommended by <a href="http://www.nancyreinhardt.com/" target="_blank">Nancy</a> on her FB page so I checked it out! Then, I went out a got a new smoothie blender (from Bella) and whipped up a strawberry banana. It's awesome!!!!<br />
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I varied the recipe just a bit and eliminated the vanilla extract and honey and added in my whey protein. Now, I've got my oatmeal AND my protein in one. And what I love about these smoothies is they are not made with ice so they can be made ahead of time and frozen for future use. That's important for me because we lead such busy lives!</div>
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Check it out! I hope you enjoy!</div>
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Here's to your health!</div>
DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-29273122025399183692012-09-02T11:54:00.002-07:002012-09-02T11:54:48.805-07:00Labor Day and Everyday Struggles<img src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS16v59q_AL4dsbmCpdITCs_vv1CCO-4K07D7UqwX59JWlHFL21" />
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First, I'd like to wish you all a very Happy Labor Day!!! I hope everyone finds a chance to relax and spend time with family and friends. We're doing that very thing this weekend and taking a break from our workouts. My brother-in-law and nephew are in town for the weekend and we're celebrating BIL's birthday coming up. He'll be a whopping 39!! Can't wait to roast him next year. (Along with my own brother who is also 39 this year!)<br />
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On another note, it's been on my heart today to encourage those of you who have been struggling with your weight over the years. I've been inspired by a couple of people... namely Nancy Reinhardt, who, despite battling a bad back, made the decision to change her life and that of her family by eating clean and getting back in the gym. Her story can be found here....(just click on her pic below). She looks hot, huh?!<br />
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<a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/body-transformation-clean-eating-spotless-future.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Nancy Reinhardt" src="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/images/2012/nancy-reinhardt-after.jpg" /></a>
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Nancy's story resonated with me. I think I was finally at a point in my life where I was tired of being overweight and everything that went with it. Being tired all the time, having no energy, hating to look at myself in the mirror, hiding from the camera. I hated myself. I hated the way I looked. But I was scared to change. <br />
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Two years ago I underwent open heart surgery. Before the surgery, my heart issues got slowly but steadily worse over time and my cardiologist finally told me it was time to repair it. After the surgery, my surgeon told me I could exercise with no restrictions. Since then, my heart is so much better but I've been paralyzed with fear. What will happen if I over exert myself? I still don't know the answer to that question, but I've decided that little by little I will work up to it.<br />
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My other challenge is that I have a steel rod attached to my spine. Okay, that sounds scarier than it really is. I had scoliosis when I was 13 and had a stainless steel rod attached to my spine. I don't notice it and it hasn't hindered me in any way except for the fact that I can do sit ups or crunches. Unlike most people, I don't bend at the waist. I bend at the hips. It's difficult for most people to grasp that - especially nowadays because the surgery for repairing scoliosis has improved dramatically over the years and patients now have more freedom of movement. That's bad when I desperately need some ab work!! LOL! <br />
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I can only walk right now on the treadmill for about 20 minutes at a pace of about 2.5. I started out about three months ago at 2.0 for 10 minutes. That's progress! I'm also lifting weights and I LOVE it! Weight lifting really gets my heart pumping! At first I was afraid of how it made me feel. Now that I'm getting used to the sensation, I'm pushing myself a little harder. I've moved up in the amount I'm lifting and I'm seeing my body change. I'm finding other ways, too, to get my abs in shape. And the appreciation I see in my husband's eyes is priceless. :)<br />
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I decided to take <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-eason-livefit-trainer.html" target="_blank">Jamie Eason's 12 week LiveFit Trainer</a>. While I can't do every exercise in this plan, I'm doing what I can and challenging myself beyond my fears. There are days when I leave the gym feeling like spaghetti!! There are days when I don't have the heart for it (no pun intended). But, that's when I take a page from Nancy's book and I don't get stressed over missing a day. I just continue on the next day.<br />
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I encourage you - if you are struggling with even getting started just take it in small steps! Remember, it's a journey - a journey to a better you!!! Join a gym or your local YMCA (which is what we did). And GO! We go at least four times a week. Even if you only go for 20 minutes.... GO!!!! <br />
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Just remember...God loves you regardless! But you can love yourself, too! It's time to start.<br />
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Here's to a fresh start!!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.dashingdiva.net/2012/02/happy-monday.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbwQtNhDRWqw7I-m0WTh7DDzkKhqKsIWa0gUfbINEbVHa67_gi8HKnEXl8WNUm44L3ZS2y-behyONsZU9JVRyZp8MPcJ4qbN4ibWYEEQu4Nl1OydoZvvmq0usJ1cPDPyjAlQskZEoOoA/s1600/Fitness%252BMotivation%252BSign%252B25.jpg" /></a>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Here's to YOU!!</span></b>DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-4995754637542804492012-08-30T17:27:00.002-07:002012-08-30T17:29:36.992-07:00My Goal...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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....and progress update....<br />
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I took the weekend off as usual to let my body rest and recuperate. I'm still seeing results!!! This morning I tried on a pair of pants I haven't fit into for about 5 years. Guess what? They fit!!! I don't always see the results in the mirror but having my old clothes fit is reward enough.<br />
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I try not to be a slave to the scale. It depresses me so I stay away from it. Besides, it seems if you use a different scale to weigh yourself, the result is always different. Isn't this how you're supposed to do it anyway?<br />
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<img src="http://www.kristilarsen.com/images/upside_down_scale.jpg" />
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Seriously though, I rely less on what the numbers on the scale say than I do on how I feel.<br />
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So, yesterday was a SUPER good workout. We worked legs yesterday and by the end of the hour my legs literally felt like spaghetti. I could barely move. Tonight wasn't as great but still good. We worked triceps tonight, which for me are difficult. I'm weak in that area, for sure. I'm looking forward to going up in weight in a couple of weeks on those exercises.<br />
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So...the title of my post is "My Goal". Once I reach the size I want to be my reward is going to be this:<br />
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And I don't mean the scooter. My goal is to have vintage pinup photos done. How cool is that? My husband loves the idea! Go figure.</div>
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It's a long road but you can't eat the elephant all at once. Hmmm, maybe that's a bad analogy! </div>
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Here's to your health!</div>
<br />DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-51636450799889026512012-08-23T06:15:00.001-07:002012-08-23T06:15:52.743-07:00Eyes on the Goal!<br />
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<a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-eason-livefit-trainer.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Jamie Eason's Livefit Trainer" height="209" src="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/images/2011/jamie-trainer-marketing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I mentioned in my last post that I was following Jamie Eason's LiveFit Trainer plan for my workouts. It's been almost 3 weeks, minus a couple of days and I'm definitely seeing results. Today, however, is a forced rest day. My body is telling me to hold off for a day or too. I am SORE, people!<br />
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Yesterday's workout was difficult. I wasn't very motivated - had some not-so-good news about a family member and I wasn't feeling the motivation or drive. I struggled through most of it though. Plus, the workout included triceps and I'll admit, mine are WEAK!<br />
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At the beginning of the year, instead of making a New Year's resolution, I determined that I would simply be intentional in everything I do. For the most part, I think I've done that. I get motivational articles from Intentional Living.com. Here's a great one that spoke to me this morning! God speaks....<br />
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<a href="http://theintentionallife.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=f9446ffd8ad2ed0d04e92362b&id=78cbe129bf&e=55c6697d03" style="color: #336699; font-weight: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><img alt="Eyes on the Goal" border="0" closure_uid_mfa5kr="698" height="195" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/f9446ffd8ad2ed0d04e92362b/images/2012_08_23_header.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong>by Dr. Randy Carlson</strong></div>
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Disruptions are the opponents of change—they can hold us back. Like defensive tackles in a football game, they keep the quarterback from scoring a touchdown.<br /><br />I’ve picked up some valuable knowledge from football. Every time the ball is hiked, the quarterback has the option to either throw a long pass, hand-off or run. He’s always focused on trying to get the ball to the end zone.<br /><br />Sometimes, the quarterback is sacked behind the line of scrimmage by the defensive tackles and has to make up even more yardage. Occasionally he even turns the ball over with an interception. Yet no matter how many disruptions he may face, he always regroups and starts over.<br /><br />Change is like that—no matter what happens, you pick yourself up off the ground emotionally and regroup. How?</div>
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<a href="http://www.theintentionallife.com/IL/Inspiration/IL-Blog/2012/08/20--Eyes-on-the-Goal.aspx?utm_source=Intentional+Living&utm_campaign=330aa770fe-IL_eNews_Aug_23_2012&utm_medium=email" target="_blank">Read More....</a></div>
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Ok...I'm re-motivated and my eyes are back on the goal! (After a couple of rest days, of course.)</div>
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Here's to whole health!</div>
DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-76791190163528619802012-08-21T10:06:00.002-07:002012-08-21T10:06:23.628-07:00Life Change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, my life over the past year has been, well, busy. I love to blog but I just don't always find the time to do it and when I do have the time, I'm exhausted and don't want to. I went back to work last November for the first time in 12 years. Can you say, "Culture Shock"? I was promoted rapidly with my new job and am now Office Manager. Scary sometimes, hectic, challenging for sure, but I love it. And I have a great boss and a fantastic team.<br />
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The other big news in my life is that I have finally come to a place where I am tired of being overweight. In May this year I signed up with the Howard Diet Center where I live. It was something I could afford and I needed the boost to get me started. I stayed with it for two months and lost 13 pounds. Needless to say, I saw results which motivated me to do more.<br />
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I convinced my husband to join the local YMCA. We've made the committment to go every day and we're following Jamie Eason's LiveFit Trainer on BodyBuilding.com. The results continue to come. I'm now a size smaller and feeling so much better. I also follow Nancy Reinhardt and try to eat clean. Don't get me wrong, I cheat now and then. I believe you have to allow yourself a treat now and then. <br />
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I'm going to use this venue to record my journey. I'll post pics, articles I find helpful, my goals and triumphs, and my not so good days. I hope you'll follow along with me and perhaps we can do it together. I'd love to hear about your weight loss/get healthy journey! Feel free to leave me comments or suggestions. <br />
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Here's to whole health!DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-86489871610833712112012-01-02T06:34:00.000-08:002012-01-02T06:34:53.547-08:00Be Intentional<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So this year, for 2012, I decided not to do resolutions. Why set myself up for failure? I recently saw a cartoon on Facebook that seemed to say it all:<br />
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This year, instead of making a list of resolutions, I've decided to go about it a little differently. Life is a journey and we are constantly on a path and reaching for something. The path I've set for myself this year is simply to be intentional in everything I do. Whether it's loving people, being a friend, or bettering myself I <i>intend </i>to be intentional about it.</div>
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I've gotten off to a pretty good start on this 2nd day of 2012. Last night, I joined Weight Watchers because, like so many others, I intend to lose some weight. Today, I'm going to buy a treadmill. Next week, I'm having lunch with a great group of women who I hope to become better friends with. And I'm starting again on my journey to higher education.</div>
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I have great intentions! Let's see if I can be intentional. If you would like to join me, then hop on board. If I get some decent feedback, I may create a Linky-thingy so that you can post each week on your intentional journeys, too, because I would love to read them!<br />
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Here's to being INTENTIONAL!<br />
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Blessings,<br />
DanaDanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-79317705735818073872011-10-11T04:48:00.000-07:002011-10-11T04:48:23.926-07:00Lily's Big SurpriseI saw a video clip on Fox News of this little 6 year old girl getting the surprise of her life. It is precious and truly priceless! Enjoy!<br />
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<br />DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-61267869638338743302011-10-10T05:38:00.000-07:002011-10-10T05:38:21.753-07:00Survey Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is just a little bit of fun to begin your week. Every Monday I'm going to post a new, fun survey! It only takes a few seconds to do. I'll post the previous week's results and the new survey. So, here's the very first survey:<br />
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<b>What kind of candy bar do you most resemble?</b><br />
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<li>Almond Joy</li>
<li>Butterfinger</li>
<li>Whatchamacallit</li>
<li>Zero</li>
<li>NutRageous</li>
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Results will be posted next Monday. Have fun!<br />
DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-52107656679522611542011-09-23T14:18:00.000-07:002011-09-23T14:18:28.651-07:00Brendan McFarlaneI think this young man will have a bright future. <br />
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<br />DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-46340976193044336612011-09-12T06:02:00.000-07:002011-09-12T06:02:36.174-07:00My 9/11 Story - Where were you?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Like so many others ten years ago, I have a story about where I was on the day that changed our US history. Ten years ago, my wonderful husband was serving in the armed forces. We were stationed in California where we lived on base at Edwards Air Force Base.<br />
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As we did every morning, my husband and I got up early, roused the kids from bed and began our morning routine of getting them off to school (two of which were right across the street from our base house). Then, a little later, he would go to work on the other side of the base from where we lived. This morning, I followed him outside to say goodbye and our neighbor across, who was also coming out to go to work, asked if we knew what was going on. We said we didn't. He advised us to go back inside and turn on the news. We looked at each other, confused. In California, there was a high speed chase about every other day that was televised on live tv. We thought this might be it but were confused as to why we should watch it.<br />
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The first channel that came up on the tv showed the towers with the first tower smoking and in flames. At first, we didn't realize what we were seeing. There appeared to be so much confusion and chaos, even from the news anchors. We flipped the channels but it was the same on every station.<br />
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Then, the second plane hit. We watched it on tv and just sat in dumbfounded silence. I realized at some point that I had tears running down my cheeks. After a couple of minutes, we looked at each other and I will never forget the words my husband spoke to me. He said, "I have to go." I nodded because I couldn't speak. I followed him back out and didn't know how long it would be until I saw him again. He was Security Forces - the infantry of the Air Force. I knew there would be immediate deployments.<br />
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After he left, I sat for hours in front of the tv and watched what unfolded. After a while, my husband called me and told me that the base was locked down and I was not allowed to go outside for any reason. To be honest, I can't remember what happened with the schools. I think they were locked down, too, until arrangements could be made for pickup of the children. I remember looking out my window and seeing a mother walking casually down the sidewalk pushing a baby stroller and her toddler walking beside her. My first thought was that she was going to die somehow. <br />
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After that, it was a whirlwind. I knew the troops would soon be mobilizing and every Security Forces member was recalled. I gathered my wits and started making phone calls. The other Security Forces wives and I began meal preparations for the Security Forces Squadron. We chose something easy and quick - spaghetti, I think it was. After a couple of hours, we had enough to feed an army - our army. And feed them, we did. As the spouses group, we were cleared to bring the food and we stayed to feed the men and women who were scrambling to deploy - only hours after learning what had happened.<br />
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Here's to all the men and women who serve, have served, will serve, and have died for our country and for us. And here's to the men and women behind our airmen, sailors, soldiers, and marines - the spouses! Thank you for ALL that you do!<br />
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So, that's my story of where I was on 9/11 ten years ago. Do you have story?DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-27348872468418206962011-09-09T10:59:00.000-07:002011-09-12T06:03:53.274-07:00The Help<img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41eKoQORnFL._SS500_.jpg" /><br />
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If you have not seen this movie yet, I encourage you to GO! I haven't read the book - and they are usually much more detailed - but the movie was awesome.<br />
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By now, you've most likely heard of it. Set in the 1960s South, where segregation and prejudice were commonplace, it brings together three people who bond in an unlikely and even dangerous friendship. Through their connection with each other, they publish a book based on stories from the view of the "help". It is humorous, heartfelt, and immense. It shows the journey of these three women as they cross the lines that separate two races and prove that friendship doesn't exist only within class or racial boundaries.<br />
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Bring your tissues, Girls.<br />
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<a href="http://thehelpmovie.com/us/#s=home">The Help</a>DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-45490694256021393092011-07-31T03:56:00.000-07:002011-07-31T03:56:27.046-07:00Jack Vale - CopyCat 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/y463LZOk90M?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
I love Jack Vale! He is SO funny. People are usually just oblivious to what he's doing! Enjoy!DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-34897728125210521562011-07-30T05:07:00.000-07:002011-07-30T05:07:56.138-07:00Five Question Friday (A Day Late)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://fivecrookedhalos.blogspot.com/2011/07/five-question-friday-72911.html"><img src="http://i607.photobucket.com/albums/tt155/fivecrookedhalos/th_w6r0jk.png" /></a></div><br />
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Ooohhh, how fun! For some reason I love survey questions. So, here's mine:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>1. Vow renewal ceremonies-yay or nay?</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Yay! Nothing says romance and love like wanting to renew your vows to the person you love. And what's even better is when the man suggests it! If I was a swooner (which I'm not...) I would swoon if he asked me.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>2. What sound/s annoy you the most?</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">TV commercials. I can't stand to hear them and have to mute them. Some of them are pretty funny, but others are just downright annoying!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>3. If you had to pick, would you have only all boys, or only all girls for kids?</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Neither! I have both boys and girls that I've raised. Neither is more difficult than the other, there are just different challenges with them. All of them drove me crazy - equally! ;)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>4. Do you believe in alternative medicine?</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Yes, absolutely! I have a cousin who used to suffer from migraines. She went to doctor after doctor and no one could figure out what was going on. Finally, a friend suggested she go to this holistic woman. The woman looked in her eyes and told my cousin she needed to get her teeth checked. Thinking the woman was crazy, she made an appointment for her teeth and found out she had a very bad decaying tooth. It was pulled and the migraines went away.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Of course, I realize there's more to alternative medicine than just that, but I think we sometimes rely much too heavily on man-made medicines when God gave us so much with which to work.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>5. Would you take a family member's children and raise them if they needed it?</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: 'Coming Soon';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Hands down - YES! Absolutely no discussion there.</span></span>DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5364802429403904372.post-23426033297393057502011-07-30T04:24:00.000-07:002011-07-30T04:24:32.766-07:00New Me Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1H7NHi4Wph83dl96xhPfcrAahtQp6Pgx6ps03RwWwPTdZs-MFUlZUU5w9L7A-2bbJgtFMDpxNj_e5vCtVCbaPyF1_oF2TzQ5u7DJexnMVAiOVhWfJRZWanQAQ56Wvz9m9WvaLmGiYxUA/s1600/measureingtapetied-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1H7NHi4Wph83dl96xhPfcrAahtQp6Pgx6ps03RwWwPTdZs-MFUlZUU5w9L7A-2bbJgtFMDpxNj_e5vCtVCbaPyF1_oF2TzQ5u7DJexnMVAiOVhWfJRZWanQAQ56Wvz9m9WvaLmGiYxUA/s320/measureingtapetied-2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, here is my first week's progress of my New Me Challenge.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My goal: to lose 2 pounds this week.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is my progress for the week:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Monday: Yoga, boxing, a run on the Wii</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tuesday: So sore today! Did some Wii table tennis and bowling.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Wednesday: No exercise today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thursday: Zumba today. Kicked my butt!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Friday: No exercise today. We had family night out and I had butterfingers. So, it's definitely salads this weekend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My goal of two pounds was met, though!!! According to my Wii. :) Yay me!</div>DanaArmstronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964131911362654011noreply@blogger.com0