tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79369798964960055912024-03-14T00:28:28.278-06:00Texan GirlKristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-68937054338999767432011-04-09T09:05:00.001-06:002011-04-09T09:28:00.319-06:00Esther<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCuHwh6d1dIwgcRLNsJ1d6xWFYq1_LRxtfMCOKrBWUSSf-PDDVrR51BratCar43ok4069UzH8pxlFCF61sCrHYqEbDrMPxcE1jQdzWT-lC3E0vSBP4XUC6qCaqxYQLaImizK8TkKMpuQs/s1600/art_tt_esther1_101306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCuHwh6d1dIwgcRLNsJ1d6xWFYq1_LRxtfMCOKrBWUSSf-PDDVrR51BratCar43ok4069UzH8pxlFCF61sCrHYqEbDrMPxcE1jQdzWT-lC3E0vSBP4XUC6qCaqxYQLaImizK8TkKMpuQs/s320/art_tt_esther1_101306.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Right now we are wrapping up the book of Esther. I think I have enjoyed this book more than any other study I have done. The book is different than any other in the Bible it doesn't say the word Lord. So, one might ask where is God during all this. He is in the background if you look closely. In a nut shell there is this King that is in search of a new Queen b/c the old one wouldn't obey. Esther was a beautiful young woman that the King picked. Then there was this other guy that reported to the King. He was offended by Esther's "father" (I put the quotes b/c he wasn't her real dad but raised her..i think he is an cousin??) He made the King's right hand man mad b/c he wouldn't bow to him. When asked the bad guy found out it was b/c he was a Jew. So, he went to the King to get a decree to kill all Jews. Well the Queen was a Jew. She threw them a two banquets and asked for her life and her people's life. King was mad that this happened and decided to kill his guy. Honestly you should read it.<br />
<br />
<br />
What did I get out of it? Keep faith. That God has a plan in time. I also really admire how Esther went about things. She seemed very cool and collective.<br />
<br />
Found a movie!! Haven't watched all it yet but looks good so far.<br />
http://ebiblemovies.com/watch/queen-esther-movie/online-free/<br />
<br />
I also found a movie called One Night With the King<br />
http://www.imdb.com/video/hulu/vi729745177/<br />
<br />
Can't wait to watch them!!Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-83551281503034128602011-04-03T19:11:00.002-06:002011-04-03T19:31:43.012-06:00Who is Henry Vane.The man in the photo for 300.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnmkQMPyvt7zevFEHMxEjBL6H1V_x9vMPaPJFaA0aFzSnzQ0D8L1q4DKA0nr-gCN562m3U-Jv65abott1AFuVPmfy2fQ47P9Xb9fft7h2ZltI40tAI0-NKjWlgHCjNpPV1mU5z4LIe4f3/s1600/KrisAnsetor.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnmkQMPyvt7zevFEHMxEjBL6H1V_x9vMPaPJFaA0aFzSnzQ0D8L1q4DKA0nr-gCN562m3U-Jv65abott1AFuVPmfy2fQ47P9Xb9fft7h2ZltI40tAI0-NKjWlgHCjNpPV1mU5z4LIe4f3/s200/KrisAnsetor.png" width="185" /></a></div>(1589-1655). To be honest I haven't had enough to to really research the guy behind the photo. I did find out that he has a facebook page. Sounds like quiet a crazy life with castles, wars, quarrels, and yes even taking his own life. I thought I had it crazy but reading about his life makes me thankful that I don't have to go through half of of what went on back then. One of my favorite plays is Romeo and Juliet but I always thought it was a little exaggerated but I can kinda see the time now. Henry was on his way politically. Knighted in 1611, comptroller (1629) and treasurer (1639) of the household and secretary of state (1640). So, what happened you ask? <br />
<blockquote><br />
<blockquote>"Vane's appointment as secretary of state was opposed by the earl of Strafford. In the latter's trial, Vane, with genuine or pretended reluctance, testified that Strafford had advocated the use of the Irish army against Parliament. As a result he lost favor with the king and was dismissed from office."<br />
- education.yahoo.com</blockquote></blockquote>But wait it gets even more interesting. How you might ask stay tuned to see how his kid turned out. Oh yeh, here is a pic of the castle in the fam!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFx6imWleFBUlDIND7bcvcIqlt5TIzVJZSLziONSeJ18_4GMe3FXP6RjkCF-Jmsrt59wH_qwjV-i472Xl_eg2EkufyHUFrAp2yuz1m4XxW55xJeR4DlVmO8gAuIJLQiktci_xg9Cn0qgRm/s1600/gp_d0228-Raby-Castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFx6imWleFBUlDIND7bcvcIqlt5TIzVJZSLziONSeJ18_4GMe3FXP6RjkCF-Jmsrt59wH_qwjV-i472Xl_eg2EkufyHUFrAp2yuz1m4XxW55xJeR4DlVmO8gAuIJLQiktci_xg9Cn0qgRm/s1600/gp_d0228-Raby-Castle.jpg" /></a></div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-18319825196051955152011-03-18T16:54:00.000-06:002011-03-18T16:54:04.791-06:00Happy St Patties Day!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, in doing our family history I have realized I have more Irish in my than I thought. Kinda cool b/c I'm fascinated by the Irish. I didn't do much digging this week on that side but I did find a link to this guy, handsome huh? Stay tuned to find out who he is!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnmkQMPyvt7zevFEHMxEjBL6H1V_x9vMPaPJFaA0aFzSnzQ0D8L1q4DKA0nr-gCN562m3U-Jv65abott1AFuVPmfy2fQ47P9Xb9fft7h2ZltI40tAI0-NKjWlgHCjNpPV1mU5z4LIe4f3/s1600/KrisAnsetor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnmkQMPyvt7zevFEHMxEjBL6H1V_x9vMPaPJFaA0aFzSnzQ0D8L1q4DKA0nr-gCN562m3U-Jv65abott1AFuVPmfy2fQ47P9Xb9fft7h2ZltI40tAI0-NKjWlgHCjNpPV1mU5z4LIe4f3/s320/KrisAnsetor.png" width="296" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-82829241593546131882011-02-27T14:19:00.000-06:002011-02-27T14:19:07.187-06:00Farmers, Running, & b.i.b.l.eOk, so far all I have found out I have a ton of farmers up one branch. They mostly lived in Georgia and North Carolina going back to the civil war time. I did find a few family photos; one even goes back to 1826.<br />
<br />
I think I'm going to use this Family Tree Builder program I found online to keep track of everything I find too.<br />
<br />
On a side note: I started to run again last week. Monday felt great I went the full 2 miles I wanted then on Thursday I didn't do so hot and then again on Sat didn't do the best. So, I'm excited of next week.<br />
<br />
As for the bible study honestly I haven't opened it since Tuesday. So that is what I'm going to go do now.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-26395565907722627552011-02-23T17:24:00.005-06:002011-02-25T16:48:05.155-06:00Roots Body Soul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYjL_qshesNjX6fV7oz3cZ4jZUhDQcSFU8tEu6lnN349fx5Guyq-jaXz1ZivASvm7_htOAH2_E_3UpNH_OwQ_7xEOl9oILAI1-l5l-0CoCZwYkK3sROTuTDWVUXgPoICmSuG1ZBd-_Qu6/s1600/Untitled-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYjL_qshesNjX6fV7oz3cZ4jZUhDQcSFU8tEu6lnN349fx5Guyq-jaXz1ZivASvm7_htOAH2_E_3UpNH_OwQ_7xEOl9oILAI1-l5l-0CoCZwYkK3sROTuTDWVUXgPoICmSuG1ZBd-_Qu6/s320/Untitled-2.png" width="320" /></a></div>I'm so excited about my new project, Mind Body Soul. Let me explain a little. <br />
<br />
I'll start with <b>Roots</b>. I have always been curious about why my ancestors came to America and where I came from. Luckily I have a few great family members that have done tons of research that I can start with. One of them even dates back to 1178. How cool is that?<br />
<br />
<b>Body</b>. This one kinda started last year with the 5k training. Those of you who don't know I am not athletic at all. Last summer I was watching Losing It With Jillian and decided it was time to get healthy. And there started my couch to 5k program. This year I'm thinking bigger...half marathon bigger. I was planning on the White Rock but somehow it is sold out. Err. So, not sure which one I'm going to do yet but in the meantime I have a few 5ks in mind. <br />
<br />
<b>Soul</b>. Last but not least knowing God. I'm starting with Ezra & Haggai. The church I go to have this amazing womens ministry. We are using the Precepts books which so far I highly recommend. The book of Ezra is about God's people taken out of their Land, temple is destroyed, people return, start rebuilding temple, discouraged by enemys, stop building temple, encouraged by Haggai and God, and the rebuild the temple in a nut shell so far. What I'm getting out of it is to trust God b/c he has a bigger plan than I do.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-26973487822594252862011-02-12T09:33:00.002-06:002011-02-12T09:36:10.336-06:001/2 Marathon ChallengeI'm sooo excited about my 1/2 marathon. I have until next Dec. Should be plenty of time. <br />
<br />
The program:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://jeffgalloway.com/training/half_marathon.html">http://jeffgalloway.com/training/half_marathon.html</a><br />
<br />
The goal:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runtherock.com/">http://www.runtherock.com/</a><br />
<br />
I'm starting in a few weeks. Stay tuned to a new playlist and how it is going. (If you have an awesome song you like to run to let me know...I'm looking for some new ones.)Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-55048821837261530372010-08-22T14:19:00.000-06:002010-08-22T13:56:33.015-06:00Week 8?I'm now up to 2.5 miles straight. Can you believe it? If I can do it really anyone can do this plan. I must admit the last few weeks were pretty hard for me mentally and physically. I cheated a few times. This little voice keeps saying I'm done and this is as far as my body will go, but then I go another lap and another lap. I just tell myself my mind is wrong it doesn't know what I can do. It is so hard to stay to the plan and keep going. Excuses like it's 100 degrees, the bugs bit me, my knee hurts, why am I doing this keep popping up too. <br />
<br />
Luckily Matt's sister and mom go with me. So, that is a huge factor that keeps me going. Plus I'm getting so close. <br />
<br />
I went to the nike outlet the other day and got a bunch of great workout outfits. I highly recommend it to anyone needing stuff.<br />
<br />
Thanks to a few seasoned runner playlist and a few of my favorites I have finally picked my playlist. I submitted it to iMix to share but it takes a while to be approved. In the meantime here you go.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC15fM_MhdDewH8-yHwX79AF7IDRU3QGdC-GsCtn4Hu_AgYHgfWbqT4Z8SUsmLFoCqJZZkplwtbMJ7SzArRaCgZPQbJq5DvQXVzVMa6nqCFQg0ES7gWC7-pY2w4I2k5cAm8TqgC-wybafE/s1600/krisrunlist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC15fM_MhdDewH8-yHwX79AF7IDRU3QGdC-GsCtn4Hu_AgYHgfWbqT4Z8SUsmLFoCqJZZkplwtbMJ7SzArRaCgZPQbJq5DvQXVzVMa6nqCFQg0ES7gWC7-pY2w4I2k5cAm8TqgC-wybafE/s320/krisrunlist.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Ok that is kinda small. Here is a better list.<br />
<br />
Faith, George Michael<br />
T-Shirt, Shontelle<br />
Defying Gravity, Freddy<br />
Trouble, Pink<br />
It Wasn't Me, Shaggy<br />
Murder She Wrote, Chaka Demus & Pliers<br />
In da Club, 50 Cent<br />
You Can Do It, Ice Cube<br />
No Woman No Cry, Bob Marley<br />
Dreams, The CranberriesKristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-5245836561230930282010-08-22T12:39:00.000-06:002010-08-22T12:39:26.800-06:00New on the MenuI'm excited this week I'm going to try 3 new recipes. I guess you could say I'm a little bored.<br />
<br />
Sunday - I'm going to try Ina's Tequila Lime Chicken. I have high hopes for this one b/c I adore her recipes.<br />
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/tequila-lime-chicken-recipe/index.html<br />
<br />
Monday - No plans.<br />
<br />
Tuesday - Is running day. A few places I have read say that shrimp is great for runners so I'm just going to saute some shrimp with some summer veggies.<br />
<br />
Wednesday - MarketStreet Tamales<br />
<br />
Thursday - Peanut Chicken Wraps. I'm a little worried about this one. Mostly b/c I'm not a huge fan of Peanut Chicken, but Matt likes it so I'm taking on for the team.<br />
http://www.10buckdinners.com/?p=914<br />
<br />
Friday - Spaghetti all Carbonara. I tried this once and it was bad but maybe Tyler has a better way of doing it.<br />
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/spaghetti-alla-carbonara-recipe/index.htmlKristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-55617887142634624862010-07-31T08:48:00.001-06:002010-07-31T08:50:21.781-06:00Week 5I'm now in week 5 of the couch challenge. It keeps getting harder but I'm trusting the plan. We have been going to the track which is nice b/c I know the distance but I feel that my pace is getting slower and slower.It took me about 45 mins to complete today when the plan shows 26 mins. I jogged 1.5 miles and walked .5 miles. Plus a lap for warm up.<br />
<br />
Ok, let's break this out. The average walking speed is 20 min per mile. I did 2 miles in 40 mins not including the warm up. So, my jog is an average walking speed. Ahh! Ok. Let's take this one step at a time. I'm going to first work on my distance each week. Then when I reach week 10 I'll start on my pace. The average jog is 10 min per mile.<br />
<br />
I look forward to next Monday's time. <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/x3NimHt_shE&hl=en_US&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/x3NimHt_shE&hl=en_US&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-68779919922729442010-07-10T07:49:00.001-06:002010-07-10T12:04:37.081-06:00Week 1<b>Saturday</b>, Exercise 1: Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes.<br />
<br />
Today went pretty well for the first day. I had to slow my jog to about turtle speed a few times and had to stop completely once to catch my breath. I was able to do the full 20 minutes plus warm up and cool down walk. I think I went about 2 miles. From my house to the park around the park twice and back home. I feel really soar now but I can't wait for exercise 2. I'm not going to weigh or measure myself until next week b/c I feel I'm putting to much pressure on that. I'm going to try to focus on the task at hand.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Sunday </b>- 6 mile bike ride on the Ray Roberts Greenbelt Trail. Felt pretty good. I did get tired on the last mile. Hopefully I can conquer the whole thing pretty soon.<br />
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<b>Monday</b>, Exercise 2: Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes.<br />
<br />
Today went better than Sat's jog. I was able to jog the whole time I was suppose to and didn't take any breaks. I'm feeling pretty tired at this point but I hear you gain energy in the long run.<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday</b>, Day of rest <br />
<br />
<b>Wednesday</b>, Exercise 3: Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes.<br />
<br />
Today I did the reps in a gym. With all this rain we have been having I thought it would be a good idea to plan on the exercise today inside. It is a lot different. The elements aren't a factor. I don't think I worked as hard as I do outside. <br />
<br />
<b>Thursday</b>, Walked outside for an hour<br />
<br />
Thought maybe it would be a good idea to do something. <br />
<br />
<b>Friday</b>, Walked outside for an hour <br />
<br />
After stuffing my face at a work lunch I needed something. Strangely a few hours later and I'm feeling a little worn down. I'm having a hard time getting off the couch<br />
<br />
I can't wait for next weeks workout. We are taking it up a notch with more jogging. I haven't so much as lost a pound or inch but I am feeling better.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-83765043734202511502010-07-03T08:26:00.001-06:002010-07-03T08:32:42.909-06:00Challenge #2 - The Couch to 5K run.So, as most of you know the special k challenge didn't work so great for me. 1 - I didn't lose any weight. 2 - I was not happy with eating cereal. 3 - I feel it was a waste of time.<br />
<br />
A few days ago I was watching TV (surprise, surprise) and the Julian show came on. I was so motivated after watching it Matt and I went for a run. It wasn't very pretty. No wonder why I have gained 40 pounds since high school. I'm not afraid to admit it. I was 90 and now I'm 130. Granted I don't want to be 90 again but 120 would be nice. I'm shooting for 110 by Thanksgiving. <br />
<br />
My goal is the turkey trout. (http://www.thetrot.org) It is a 5K.<br />
<br />
How am I going to get there. A while back I heard about this couch to 5K site. (http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml) <br />
<br />
Wish me luck. I'm heading out for my first workout.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-11122395298192513192010-05-26T19:22:00.000-06:002010-05-26T19:22:09.510-06:00USVI and BVIWell, our trip has come to an end. Here are some pics!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-Bavw-2ZXinL_Aq2S-xLCUYwhYe3V_RLPcpNDhPiDPn0NJl8QhijJKtwD2BFJHWFPPIU2vqJ3-4dTlejjJvBZWTl-58TwxRx_Ter3j14NjNQX52wQCDa7FDEd4zhhsN1oKAYbCs_KG7b/s1600/098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-Bavw-2ZXinL_Aq2S-xLCUYwhYe3V_RLPcpNDhPiDPn0NJl8QhijJKtwD2BFJHWFPPIU2vqJ3-4dTlejjJvBZWTl-58TwxRx_Ter3j14NjNQX52wQCDa7FDEd4zhhsN1oKAYbCs_KG7b/s320/098.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV5IeWbL49FqGE7TrFM67AeAJBvzF3VOJBcbyRBON8qPEbKD-wDaHChHb_sT2gVAx6UYvDLfj1B0lB6I534RPrhw9-mVihcaUKQvn7oI99WvxB1A7gf5axV888kay-QDfb2F-avTG80Cy/s1600/162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV5IeWbL49FqGE7TrFM67AeAJBvzF3VOJBcbyRBON8qPEbKD-wDaHChHb_sT2gVAx6UYvDLfj1B0lB6I534RPrhw9-mVihcaUKQvn7oI99WvxB1A7gf5axV888kay-QDfb2F-avTG80Cy/s320/162.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy8DOGP1-mwEKjein0Sw5BWA_dKXUDCkohbU4D7Im1z4RY8WWQrrEwSz6gJx_yvD_4DNktPVrpmVIL6ntdRZDXVOD_79vOSaNg9DmVj24PAxxUbEnFt2n9p-ueM8SEN8PIBV_ZLA2G9YC/s1600/265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy8DOGP1-mwEKjein0Sw5BWA_dKXUDCkohbU4D7Im1z4RY8WWQrrEwSz6gJx_yvD_4DNktPVrpmVIL6ntdRZDXVOD_79vOSaNg9DmVj24PAxxUbEnFt2n9p-ueM8SEN8PIBV_ZLA2G9YC/s320/265.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdigyQwpmbf4jR8eMnYMZk1nT9TlpyQALLS8aaOwW0PH_VPje8EfpGF9Ljama2YYKRrwrnt9gaJKWUAvx7PoCNIJrPzohTAdztE-YumP7RDch_05MclvpTDHP3bYjihPLpeyK54iwdzg1/s1600/306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdigyQwpmbf4jR8eMnYMZk1nT9TlpyQALLS8aaOwW0PH_VPje8EfpGF9Ljama2YYKRrwrnt9gaJKWUAvx7PoCNIJrPzohTAdztE-YumP7RDch_05MclvpTDHP3bYjihPLpeyK54iwdzg1/s320/306.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM51N6O_nAPmCFgwEaAdhXKIRUsTepGF4sSABeQTns5zzwtOufYSUg4xHNepUaj5txHb-5IUXo_WEsFCCZxys0W4j9qm1BSHP-S_wjBO0unwhg1_e8WrTEsCIa3nigDwQcCJamvnvDX5P/s1600/359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM51N6O_nAPmCFgwEaAdhXKIRUsTepGF4sSABeQTns5zzwtOufYSUg4xHNepUaj5txHb-5IUXo_WEsFCCZxys0W4j9qm1BSHP-S_wjBO0unwhg1_e8WrTEsCIa3nigDwQcCJamvnvDX5P/s320/359.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WrPGgaobCp1S-uZj9ThVWvqUSDR_Zk9pERXcGqOIdDtgHXfYJbfRaRGMD4g5vQMA-47c1gu1L1jB5sYuWBl55UWbksxqzNeGbQ_DUJz2hRYtE-QOCzPAfllFDpcarP-S-qzxWnwTzNH2/s1600/372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WrPGgaobCp1S-uZj9ThVWvqUSDR_Zk9pERXcGqOIdDtgHXfYJbfRaRGMD4g5vQMA-47c1gu1L1jB5sYuWBl55UWbksxqzNeGbQ_DUJz2hRYtE-QOCzPAfllFDpcarP-S-qzxWnwTzNH2/s320/372.JPG" /></a></div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-42058190639289457652010-05-02T11:29:00.000-06:002010-05-02T11:29:41.936-06:00Day 8 Special KWell, I still haven't lost a pound and I think my waist is the same. I haven't lost hope yet! I did breakdown and ate two real meals yesterday and popcorn but I'm back on track. Two weeks until St John! I better start doing sit-ups or something else.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-91671688152886822712010-04-28T19:03:00.029-06:002010-04-28T19:03:00.349-06:00Day 5 of Special KOk, I'm on day 5 and I haven't lost a pound. Hopefully it is just because I'm gaining muscles :) I have been bike riding, walking, yoga, and using the wii fit. When I measured myself yesterday I thought I gained an inch but then today I lost half an inch from Saturday. So, who knows if I'm measuring the same each time.<br />
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The food is ok. The first few days I was going through some major chip withdraw. Apparently I'm addicted to them. I really like the pretzel bar snack, chocolate shake and berry cereal. I don't like the granola cereal at all. It is just to fat free for me. <br />
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This process has been really hard for me. Must be why they call it a challenge. A few things that I hope I can take away are 1) to exercise/do something 30 minutes a day 2) what I snack on 3) what I cook.<br />
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Meal tip - divide your plate 1/2 should be salad/veggies, 1/4 lean protein, 1/4 starch. (mine was more like 1/2 fried meat and 1/2 starch)<br />
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Snack tip - precut veggies and fruit for a snack throughout the day<br />
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Each day seems to get a little better. I'm not as hungry as the day before. Maybe the whole hunger thing was just in my head. I do notice I eat more when I get bored. (like watching tv) I'm going to keep it up until at least this weekend. If I don't see anything change by then I might slowly introduce lunch back.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-87728201633971292222010-04-24T08:24:00.000-06:002010-04-24T08:24:33.645-06:00Weigh InDay number one and I am so excited. My first protein shake wasn't bad. I bought the strawberry ones last night so I would have something for breakfast before our weekly shopping. They were on sale so an extra bonus. I was surprised on how much sugar they had but I'm glad it did. I'm not sure how long I can last on just shakes so we are going to the store before lunch!<br />
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I know a lot of you don't care/want to know but I was to keep a record of my first weigh in. Plus keep in mind I'm only 5'3''.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">133 pounds and 34 1/2 inches</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">This week I'm going to try special's recipes. Seared Steak Salad, Jamaican Chicken Breast with Mashed Sweet Potatoes, and Lemon Pepper Salmon. I'm going to cook a few of my favorites to just so I don't go crazy with new stuff. It can be overwhelming. I'm going to try to post about 3 times a week with my thoughts so bare with me in the next few weeks. I promise the payoff of St John stories will be worth it.</div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-76545509152056808302010-04-22T06:29:00.000-06:002010-04-22T06:29:36.469-06:00New Appliance Day<div style="text-align: center;">We got 3 out of 4 appliances yesterday. </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-YbMVN2WH2vWapo2gPtMEW-e3TEHikyuQiXigBnTO5NOqucEnFMivyLGAIQOWjdyaKA6TpR_YwCDw3xXuk2JaHZzto6sgsJgOcb4eKoKEHwdmP_ZmG0d_L96jPIe6r6mHoX6eE8f55qbU/s1600/212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-YbMVN2WH2vWapo2gPtMEW-e3TEHikyuQiXigBnTO5NOqucEnFMivyLGAIQOWjdyaKA6TpR_YwCDw3xXuk2JaHZzto6sgsJgOcb4eKoKEHwdmP_ZmG0d_L96jPIe6r6mHoX6eE8f55qbU/s320/212.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6O3xohSFJmPL6Y8NoDRnzH_GKKlMWAlMY_-wukdwNmLlrUBgY4qtsGq55cM6U_De_cdNf7_TLCNxGjo_tOOczrsa3-NX_kDrNf-QyHGrMFEORGQzK2bYAI0kRH2SmkOJrThWKpj42GR_j/s1600/216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6O3xohSFJmPL6Y8NoDRnzH_GKKlMWAlMY_-wukdwNmLlrUBgY4qtsGq55cM6U_De_cdNf7_TLCNxGjo_tOOczrsa3-NX_kDrNf-QyHGrMFEORGQzK2bYAI0kRH2SmkOJrThWKpj42GR_j/s320/216.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-29557203166346397212010-04-20T19:06:00.000-06:002010-04-20T19:06:49.634-06:00Real Countdown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5U4pStdKT4UMEnJH1YX-22kxwXKERrYXXsPEmdaF68hjCjJJ7MNvVjpvyAWHIBOHLSlX9LZG4kr2eWJ9EN6wZvQYQLZmtk759f1-LEk7RvQEIPEQxbyoCqmNYi09YLYsrroiJDnCMjs-p/s1600/specialk_logo_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5U4pStdKT4UMEnJH1YX-22kxwXKERrYXXsPEmdaF68hjCjJJ7MNvVjpvyAWHIBOHLSlX9LZG4kr2eWJ9EN6wZvQYQLZmtk759f1-LEk7RvQEIPEQxbyoCqmNYi09YLYsrroiJDnCMjs-p/s320/specialk_logo_sm.jpg" /></a></div>Ok, I am starting a real countdown to our trip. I have decided to do the Special K Challenge. So what if I have never done a diet in my life. I went to specialk.com and it is really simple . Plus the food looks great. I thought it was just going to be a bunch of cereal but it is more than that. I have decided to document this journey to keep myself accountable. <br />
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I'm going to start Saturday. Because A - we shop on Saturday for groceries and B - I'm going out to lunch with the girls tomorrow and the office orders lunch on Fridays. I also think it would be easier to start so it will be in sync with my grocery runs.<br />
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I'm getting so excited. I'm still looking over their website and I can't wait to try it. I am a little afraid of all the bars last time I went on a bar kick I got pretty sick of them. Good thing they have a lot to pick from. I like that you can also eat veggies and fruit. I might sub a snack for that. I'm going to weigh in Saturday morning. Stay tuned.<br />
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I'm debating the whole before and after pic. I think I'm going to skip that part.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-40350763123541860022010-04-08T19:04:00.000-06:002010-04-22T19:05:34.876-06:00Easter!!Boy was Easter busy this year. We had so much fun! Saturday we went to the park with Matt's fam. It was so nice to just hang out and have fun. I brought the Chicken Salad of course my fav and Matt's parents brought burgers! Matt and I bought the girls gifts this year and put then in huge eggs. They were soo cool. Then we played a little ball. I had the bright idea to bring Pepper. Seriously maximize the second pic. It is perfect.<br />
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Then we went to the Rangers game at the Dr Pepper ballpark. That place was packed! This year they added popcorn and peanuts to the teddy section which is amazing.<br />
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The year my fam came over for Easter dinner. We tried the honey baked ham. Honestly I liked the ham we did for new years better. One good thing was you didn't have to put it in the oven at all.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGw3w1mMKwFE5WW90Yuqy_ahEPEixcZH7VT6oC9LN4bBsxwUsJMq4hY5bqVNsRolFb-r1bUH7-RTft9OsRoLOtWrfMuwXKftOKp5TqC_LONtb1-BUFzTknJRgNf0y_trKAZLcT2oQ_HNB6/s1600/183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGw3w1mMKwFE5WW90Yuqy_ahEPEixcZH7VT6oC9LN4bBsxwUsJMq4hY5bqVNsRolFb-r1bUH7-RTft9OsRoLOtWrfMuwXKftOKp5TqC_LONtb1-BUFzTknJRgNf0y_trKAZLcT2oQ_HNB6/s320/183.JPG" /></a></div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-62233610954368674802010-03-31T07:28:00.000-06:002010-04-22T19:06:09.979-06:00St John BoundSeriously hands down my favorite beach spot is St John. We are finally going back this Summer. I'm so excited. Here is a rough draft of my itinerary. We are also going to do a boat day but I need to look more into that one.<br />
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<b>Salt Pond Bay Day (All Day)</b><br />
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Drive Centerline stopping to see Catherinburg ruins/overlook - At this fine example of an 18th-century sugar and rum factory, there's a storage vault beneath the windmill. Across the road, look for the round mill, which was later used to hold water. In the 1733 slave revolt Catherineberg served as headquarters for the Amina warriors, a tribe of Africans captured into slavery.<br />
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Tourist Trap for lunch. <br />
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Explorer Salt Pond - If you're adventurous, this rocky beach on the scenic southeastern coast—next to Coral Bay and rugged Drunk Bay—is worth exploring. It's a short hike down a hill from the parking lot, and the only facilities are an outhouse and a few picnic tables scattered about. Tide pools are filled with all sorts of marine creatures, and the snorkeling is good, particularly along the bay's edges. A short walk takes you to a pond where salt crystals collect around the edges. Hike farther uphill past cactus gardens to Ram Head for see-forever views. Leave nothing valuable in your car, as reports of thefts are common.<br />
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Leaf Lobster Dive Site -You could spend a week diving just this spot and still not see the entire reef. Patch reefs, spur and groove formations, and some large ledges camouflage turtles, spotted moray eels, nurse and lemon sharks<br />
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<b>Beach Day (All Day)</b><br />
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Visit Trunk Bay and snorkel its famous underwater trail <br />
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Enjoy the sun, sand and sea at Cinnamon Bay<br />
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<b>Annaberg Day (Half Day)</b><br />
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Annaberg ruins - In the 18th century sugar plantations dotted the steep hills of this island. Slaves and free Danes and Dutchmen toiled to harvest the cane that was used to create sugar, molasses, and rum for export. Built in the 1780s, the partially restored plantation at Leinster Bay was once an important sugar mill. Although there are no official visiting hours, the National Park Service has regular tours, and some well-informed taxi drivers will show you around. Occasionally you may see a living-history demonstration—someone making johnnycake or weaving baskets. For information on tours and cultural events, contact the St. John National Park Service Visitors Center.<br />
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Skinny Legs<br />
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<b>Cruz Bay Day (Half Day)</b><br />
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Stroll through the quaint and colorful shops of Mongoose Junction and Wharfside Village in Cruz Bay<br />
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lunch and drinks at Woody's<br />
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<b>Reef Bay Trail (All Day)</b><br />
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Although this is one of the most interesting hikes on St. John, unless you're a rugged individualist who wants a physical challenge (and that describes a lot of people who stay on St. John), you can probably get the most out of the trip if you join a hike led by a Park Service ranger who can identify the trees and plants on the hike down, fill you in on the history of the Reef Bay Plantation, and tell you about the petroglyphs on the rocks at the bottom of the trail. A side trail takes you to the plantation's great house, a gutted but mostly intact structure that maintains vestiges of its former beauty.<br />
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<b>Night Life</b><br />
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Fred's at Cruz Bay - There's calypso and reggae on Friday night at Fred's.<br />
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<b>St Thomas</b><br />
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St. Peter Mountain Greathouse & Botanical Gardens - Nestled high in the volcanic peaks of St. Thomas, this site was originally part of the 150-acre Plantation St. Peter. Today, the Greathouse displays examples of West Indian architecture and furniture. The lush Botanical Gardens and nature trail feature streaming waterfalls, tropical bird aviaries, fish ponds, more than 20 varieties of orchids and 150 species of Caribbean plants and fruits. (www.greathouse-mountaintop.com)Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-79015853729083225652010-02-14T09:50:00.017-06:002010-02-14T09:50:00.464-06:00Blizzard in Texas?We had a foot of snow last Thursday. Seriously the coolest thing that has ever happened in Dallas. For those of you that don't know me I am a want a be country nature girl. I see myself as a Paula Deen meets Bear Grylls. Ok, maybe not so dangerous but you get the point. The most extreme I go is rock climbing with a guide. So, back to this snow. Check out our snow man we made after a night of more snow. This winter has been crazy so much for global warming. Happy Vday everyone!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EAEETVdDlabNnDh6kv9xT6ctmWhjcAA-pb3ga75Y57OhLbhsMuT5U5fxfefTXVOaywnxplWIt9e_CwD0RF3ngZryC6xmkokAbzZma6pTRhGR6TJgxVW4zkyM_TRxkkfPPkN-b_XbLXz2/s1600-h/166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EAEETVdDlabNnDh6kv9xT6ctmWhjcAA-pb3ga75Y57OhLbhsMuT5U5fxfefTXVOaywnxplWIt9e_CwD0RF3ngZryC6xmkokAbzZma6pTRhGR6TJgxVW4zkyM_TRxkkfPPkN-b_XbLXz2/s320/166.JPG" /></a></div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-41926286682044706032010-02-13T11:50:00.000-06:002010-02-13T11:50:01.903-06:00New Lights<div style="text-align: center;">I'm so excited that my new lights have arrived and are installed. I have been wanting new lights forever. We went to the store really only wanting one for the dinning room but we were getting such a great deal we went ahead and did all three. They match our stuff to a T. We kept the old ones just in case we decide to move one day. Now after knowing how long they take to install I'm not sure if we are allowed to move. I'm so excited that this house is starting to take on my personality. There is just so much more to do. Kinda makes me think you should buy a house that you wouldn't change a thing first. Not that this house has anything wrong with it just needs some character. What is left on my list: new appliances for the kitchen, granite in the kitchen, wood floors for the study and dinning room, and the backyard needs trees and shrubs. I have a few small projects in mind too like putting molding around our bathroom mirrors. I saw it on some decor show and loved it. Maybe the way to go is pick a room do it and move to the next. I think our main focus this year will be the kitchen since that is where we spend all our time. Here's to hoping everything sticks to the plan! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpDE3khZaXK55pCm1K863MNGHKEx_treY2M-anGkhvbaxs0LXbLAkWKWf9uJxkwgXHFU-ZagVliERiwtuL7SeBqfEtwcGB7mV2ngdpiU81dH1a0sP62ataQkKAM2QZuy8Am3MGIniE7jl/s1600-h/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpDE3khZaXK55pCm1K863MNGHKEx_treY2M-anGkhvbaxs0LXbLAkWKWf9uJxkwgXHFU-ZagVliERiwtuL7SeBqfEtwcGB7mV2ngdpiU81dH1a0sP62ataQkKAM2QZuy8Am3MGIniE7jl/s200/070.JPG" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Before</div></td><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1dtho0KAVMcO5Aey396TfKG0JiX2it44EP8HRa4ztGiAfI1YrEytC7xkQUzBhUwDHMNlKtDDYSocu6k7bX2jbi8mFmzf5v4b8OfXHbnwBSqOspKrswYcvT2qkWwAh5cncZpCPdjbgoymu/s1600-h/187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1dtho0KAVMcO5Aey396TfKG0JiX2it44EP8HRa4ztGiAfI1YrEytC7xkQUzBhUwDHMNlKtDDYSocu6k7bX2jbi8mFmzf5v4b8OfXHbnwBSqOspKrswYcvT2qkWwAh5cncZpCPdjbgoymu/s200/187.JPG" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> After</div></td></tr>
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<tr><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3kNs36-pYMYMoyMWfUH-bM9riOzCTGCo8kRWtG57DdVdpO9rPoqINq90CyxY5pQLkld70DI8c7dlq-werWdPDlKvmB-u70xWQDKZMvpEDykhV3cWRg91eqvsjBJbPLZgF-QtLzHQwhEK/s1600-h/079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3kNs36-pYMYMoyMWfUH-bM9riOzCTGCo8kRWtG57DdVdpO9rPoqINq90CyxY5pQLkld70DI8c7dlq-werWdPDlKvmB-u70xWQDKZMvpEDykhV3cWRg91eqvsjBJbPLZgF-QtLzHQwhEK/s200/079.JPG" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Before</div></td><td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhss6cz3fH-wftzHENDY7m0xFEw0C3MSeAL7QP53kQtnzLAEX-eP8Ds8oEbsD9Tf_v6jWbWoEEAl4VK0kY6InvBf6wL947jESmeX_VveKX7lQVHXvr5a0-UO5SWDQQ5cgLmAmX8qWEfj4LZ/s1600-h/201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhss6cz3fH-wftzHENDY7m0xFEw0C3MSeAL7QP53kQtnzLAEX-eP8Ds8oEbsD9Tf_v6jWbWoEEAl4VK0kY6InvBf6wL947jESmeX_VveKX7lQVHXvr5a0-UO5SWDQQ5cgLmAmX8qWEfj4LZ/s200/201.JPG" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> After</div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-4657595068199815712009-11-29T18:16:00.000-06:002009-11-29T18:16:41.682-06:00The The The Grinch @ The Gaylord<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacQY9fgsAZj3dZINPOscKxytOd83tDCOlm6HKGwBslG4FvixKqJ-6Vbajbk8ZFvupmB8zl55Xx8UKjKiC0Y9Zd1v4BhclmdfWOe7rvgf6P-DVwUnD98gVs-SVrq_ZSokqyzNw-RdkOCCd/s1600/IMG_1326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacQY9fgsAZj3dZINPOscKxytOd83tDCOlm6HKGwBslG4FvixKqJ-6Vbajbk8ZFvupmB8zl55Xx8UKjKiC0Y9Zd1v4BhclmdfWOe7rvgf6P-DVwUnD98gVs-SVrq_ZSokqyzNw-RdkOCCd/s320/IMG_1326.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>This year we got to go to the ICE exhibit at the Gaylord. Man are some people just talented. It was pretty cool. I really liked the theme this year, The Grinch. If you plan on going maybe try earlier in the day. That place was packed the day after Thanksgiving. In the store after they had the coolest Texas Christmas Lights made out of wait for it shotgun shells. They were so cool. A little pricey, but pretty unique. So I just did a search. They totally marked them up. Matt said hobby lobby has them too:)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3qOisnwcMOxI_LoffTPqXDSTvUR3a4FRWFKIbBTQ-3BonIMq-PNeyY8wu1AdP5jSLlASB0GeoZV6XQwEL_AgGeftcvQeyMrA2Ye35HL7BSbLrWbj9d4wfAufeAzSxQV4pQ29T-ZbfFs3/s1600/IMG_1341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3qOisnwcMOxI_LoffTPqXDSTvUR3a4FRWFKIbBTQ-3BonIMq-PNeyY8wu1AdP5jSLlASB0GeoZV6XQwEL_AgGeftcvQeyMrA2Ye35HL7BSbLrWbj9d4wfAufeAzSxQV4pQ29T-ZbfFs3/s320/IMG_1341.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-7927116271988893572009-11-10T19:42:00.001-06:002009-11-29T18:20:27.883-06:00Love the pie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WalVtjessQcQhGYPLDiePXeaZBcd8C1A5U7jVrO_00EibiaI5PfZUR3GrLa9IAzNCyv9dhLyltTQi90sQ2YTPU_83clCRfJ_2KzGEwmrK4U6S_4GAGVhBffgP9tMxJOd1T8Hyr5hgpl9/s1600-h/049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WalVtjessQcQhGYPLDiePXeaZBcd8C1A5U7jVrO_00EibiaI5PfZUR3GrLa9IAzNCyv9dhLyltTQi90sQ2YTPU_83clCRfJ_2KzGEwmrK4U6S_4GAGVhBffgP9tMxJOd1T8Hyr5hgpl9/s320/049.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>This weekend was full of love for the pie. We celebrated my sisters birthday on Saturday were my mom made a Lemon Pie. Man do I have a lot of practice before my meringue turns out like hers. Then on Saturday I made an apple pie. By far my favorite pie. This time I tried the pillsbury recipe. Well, one it saves time with the crust and two it is pretty hard not to mess up. I still can't get the pretty flute edges, but honestly it still tasted amazing. I sliced the apples with a thin mandolin. I like my apples nice a thin. So, I think that is key. Has anyone tried apple pie with a slice of cheese on top? It kinda scares me but it kinda sounds good. I usually just have a scoop of ice cream with mine.<br />
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Anyways, check out http://www.pillsbury.com/pie for great holiday pie ideas.They even have a tutorial which I totally should have watched first. It shows you just how to flute the edges.<br />
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Here's the recipe (http://www.pillsbury.com/Recipes/ShowRecipe.aspx?rid=11187)<br />
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INGREDIENTS<br />
Crust<br />
1 box (15 oz) Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box<br />
Filling*<br />
6 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (6 medium) - i like McIntosh apples<br />
3/4 cup sugar<br />
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour<br />
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1/4 teaspoon salt<br />
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg<br />
1 tablespoon lemon juice<br />
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DIRECTIONS<br />
1. Heat oven to 425°F. Place 1 pie crust in ungreased 9-inch glass pie plate. Press firmly against side and bottom.<br />
2. In large bowl, gently mix filling ingredients; spoon into crust-lined pie plate. Top with second crust. Wrap excess top crust under bottom crust edge, pressing edges together to seal; flute. Cut slits or shapes in several places in top crust.<br />
3. Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until apples are tender and crust is golden brown. Cover edge of crust with 2- to 3-inch wide strips of foil after first 15 to 20 minutes of baking to prevent excessive browning. Cool on cooling rack at least 2 hours before serving.Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-44988781957850932902009-11-01T18:44:00.000-06:002009-11-01T18:44:51.556-06:00Happy Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvac1ZZ6OIXeYwdvvJYxOD0LQlz3A4LtUYZx6kyz6xqIq0KOc5_AflgtyG1wdjl4k-zw6oyirfWUmOmNC5hcGuF8vcpCnSzZx8R0Ln6l2eO5yoy9sGJfl6zzbKVY1q1dGRhI2PY7jq7G50/s1600-h/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvac1ZZ6OIXeYwdvvJYxOD0LQlz3A4LtUYZx6kyz6xqIq0KOc5_AflgtyG1wdjl4k-zw6oyirfWUmOmNC5hcGuF8vcpCnSzZx8R0Ln6l2eO5yoy9sGJfl6zzbKVY1q1dGRhI2PY7jq7G50/s320/031.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Kristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7936979896496005591.post-25129720531533193612009-10-28T07:39:00.006-06:002009-10-28T10:58:49.098-06:00My Make a WishSo, last night I was thinking about my ultimate favorite sports people. So, here goes:<br />
1. Nolan Ryan - i grew up loving him; i remember my brother getting his baseball card or autograph (sorry i can't remember the sticken details) and being o so jealous.<br />
2. Troy Aikman - my love for Aikman grew when he endorsed wing stop. i'm obsessed with wing stop so there you go.<br />
3. Steve Nash - loved to watch him play when i was in high school.. come back!<br />
4. Jason Kidd - i'm so glad he is back!<br />
5. Dirk Nowitzki - seems like a cool guy to chill with<br />
6. Lance Armstrong - he is from plano and is a rock star!<br />
7. Mike Modano- well i have to have a stars guyKristenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02347850526851997648noreply@blogger.com0