tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30543675357320011602024-03-05T03:20:41.409-06:00Seeing All SidesSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.comBlogger1062125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-27042770925003098452021-05-05T15:48:00.008-05:002021-05-06T14:16:05.538-05:00After the Miscarriage: My Experience with a D&E<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(You can read about our miscarriage <a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2021/04/angel-babies.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)</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/AVvXsEjec3LRWx0faMdJBGUU7gZYFahB3mItRObptWRi73NLESxEHFFXnBR4hUBJ5BJasvSz5qHtF1UzmLtFAlRTwDnSUYJmVOFYncH5pvevMSbrXYAH4o6M1cBf6hEktiHMWmi8oUczdyRlCnGo/s2048/IMG_0973.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjec3LRWx0faMdJBGUU7gZYFahB3mItRObptWRi73NLESxEHFFXnBR4hUBJ5BJasvSz5qHtF1UzmLtFAlRTwDnSUYJmVOFYncH5pvevMSbrXYAH4o6M1cBf6hEktiHMWmi8oUczdyRlCnGo/w480-h640/IMG_0973.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p>While it's still fresh in my mind, I want to write about the day I had a D&E (dilation and evacuation) to remove our little girls whose hearts had stopped beating around 15 weeks of pregnancy. Not that it's an experience I want to re-live but because if I can help one person, then it's worth it. Writing also helps me process experiences and is very therapeutic to me, so here I am.</p><p>My procedure was scheduled for 1pm on Thursday, April 29 with an 11am check-in. I couldn't eat in the 8-12 hours leading up to check-in, and couldn't drink for two hours prior. Truth be told, I didn't have one sip of water all morning. I took a shower and threw up while brushing my teeth. A reminder that I was still, in fact, pregnant, but with babies who were no longer alive.</p><p>We checked in at 11. I got a wristband, paid the $50 deposit towards our final bill, and we were sent to the surgery waiting room. I was doing fairly well emotionally (albeit hungry and needing coffee) until a waiting room attendant checked in with us. Her job was basically to move around the waiting room, prep the patient and family (one support person per patient due to Covid) with information about his or her procedure (she told us mine would last about 30 minutes) and give updates on whether things were running on time, etc. We asked if Craig was supposed to go back to pre-op with me once my name was called. She said they would allow it, given my procedure, even though Covid prevented most others from having support with them. This, of course, opened the flood gates. I cried then and there, not knowing or caring who was watching.</p><p>Going into the procedure, I was equal parts sad and hopeful. Hopeful because I knew it would give me some closure and allow us to move forward. It was hard being "pregnant" with dead babies. At the same time, I felt extreme sadness because although the babies were not alive, they were still with me <i>physically,</i> and that was, in a way, comforting. The procedure would physically eliminate the babies forever, leaving us with only memories, which was a hard truth to accept.</p><p>I honestly have no idea what time we were called back. But I do remember crying as the employee called my name, crying some more as the nurse introduced herself and told us how sorry she was, and crying even more as I was prepped for surgery. As we were leaving the waiting room, I also remember someone telling Craig he couldn't go with me, and someone else telling that lady it had been approved for our situation.</p><p>Craig stayed with me for about an hour. I put on a hospital gown, met a ton of medical staff (KU is a teaching hospital so lots of med students...they were all amazing), talked with both the anesthesiologist and OB, and got hooked up to an IV. I hadn't had anything to drink (or eat) for over 17 hours so it took awhile, several pokes, a vein light, and a second nurse to get the IV in place. Did I mention I hate needles? The IV was always my least favorite part of giving birth.</p><p>The first medication I took was a pill that went under my tongue to soften my cervix. It did not taste great and left a grainy, gritty taste in my mouth (with nothing to drink to wash it down). It also gave me period-like cramps. Then they started me on antibiotics (standard during surgery to prevent infection) and pain meds. I had a stress + lack of caffeine headache (plus the cramps) so I welcomed the pain meds with open arms. Similar to some women in labor, I got the severe shakes. The nurse assured me it was normal; thought I can't remember which medication caused it. They piled on the blankets to give me some comfort.</p><p>Craig eventually headed back to the waiting room and I sat watching doctors and nurses come and go. People-watching in a hospital is kind of like people-watching in an airport. So many stories and experiences inside those walls. Happy moments. Sad moments. Scary moments. At one point, the nurse asked if I wanted my curtain closed and I declined.</p><p>I have no idea what time they finally took me into the OR, as I had given Craig both my phone and watch, but I do know it was a lot later than the 1:00 time it was supposed to happen. The last thing I remember is moving from the bed on wheels to the operating table and a new nurse introducing herself and telling me they were starting some meds to relax me.</p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p>I woke up a few(?) hours later wearing a breathing mask while being wheeled down the hallway to the ICU. I remember nurses telling me bits and pieces about what had happened. "<i>Blood loss, fluids, ICU</i>." I remember seeing a clock and it was near 6:00pm. I was so confused. And so cold. The next hour is a blur. At one point, I was reunited with Craig, but I barely remember the moment he showed up.</p><p>From what I have pieced together, the procedure went well. However, the IUD had apparently implanted into some blood vessels (as it had shifted into my uterus during pregnancy) so I started bleeding when they attempted to remove the IUD. I lost over two liters of blood, which is over 40% (a normal adult body has five liters) and required a blood transfusion. The doctor also had to embolize the blood supply to my uterus through an artery in my groin (I woke with several more IVs than what I went to sleep with) and also placed a balloon in my uterus (with a tube coming from my privates) to keep the bleeding at bay. The blood transfusion also required pumping me full of fluids so I also woke to a catheter. The fluids went to my lungs (normal), and I found it hard to breathe; hence the aforementioned breathing mask.</p><p>Craig said one of the first things I asked about (once coherent) was Rhett. My procedure was supposed to be an outpatient thing so we planned on being discharged by 4:00 and in plenty of time to get Rhett from preschool. Luckily we had a backup plan and one of our neighbors grabbed him. The other boys were given dinner, carted to practices, and looked after by our amazing neighbors, who have become our Kansas City family. โค๏ธ</p><p>(Note: Craig told me later that he asked the doctor if I was going to be okay cognitively because I could only nod or speak one-word replies. He thought the blood loss may have caused some permanent brain damage. ๐ฅบ)</p><p>At some point that evening, I asked my nurse how long I had to wear the oxygen mask. You think Covid masks are bad...they ain't got nothing on oxygen masks! I was "lucky" to swap the mask for a nasal cannula, which was also not ideal. I hadn't eaten in over 24 hours and I was hungry, but on a "nothing by mouth" diet so I couldn't eat or drink until the next morning. </p><p>Note: I had a box of Crumbl cookies at home (delivered that morning while fasting) calling my name. I had been looking forward to eating one (or four) so badly after my procedure was complete.</p><p>My parents did not plan on coming...mainly because I wanted an empty house to recover and relax in, but once they heard the procedure had gone amiss, they hopped in their car and made it to KC in record timing. I think they arrived around 8:30 that evening and took over care of our boys. Just in time to clean out our refrigerator that had, ironically, stopped working earlier that day. I wish I was kidding.</p><p>Craig stayed with me in the ICU. I knew his bed (aka a chair) would not be comfortable, but I couldn't bear the thought of him leaving me alone all night. The nurses did mention I was the healthiest patient in the ICU, but it was still the ICU. Outside of having babies, I have never been hospitalized, so this was an all-new experience. Sometimes it's just nice to ask your husband for a favor over a nurse.</p><p>I didn't get much sleep that night. Vitals around midnight. Balloon removal around 1am. More medical stuff that I can't remember between 2 and 4am. I finally slept from about 4 until 6 in the morning.</p><p>Around 7am, we met with the doctor. I was looking and feeling more like myself. I had taken pain meds consistently throughout the night and wasn't in much pain. They removed the catheter and told me I needed to pee on my own before I could be discharged. I also needed to be breathing on my own (sans oxygen) and maintain oxygen levels of 90 or higher. I was still hard to take a deep breath due to the fluid in my lungs. The nurse suggested I get out of bed and move to the chair, but when I tried, it was too painful to stand up straight, so back down I laid. I was finally given permission to eat the below-average hospital food. The highlight was when Craig got me a Roasterie latte. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgphGgc-q0gdmK8eTLJ1nA4Enlk6OtHI8O4CXsezSsvDkl2ht-nVfJjI0XKxu0yYlSBibR_-15qv97rucZ9-KiBRsjYSfofjMaILIRNmHPWVUdPUFYfg21-OQp0IeboWXRRuUnQc6CYwSHM/s2048/IMG_0974.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgphGgc-q0gdmK8eTLJ1nA4Enlk6OtHI8O4CXsezSsvDkl2ht-nVfJjI0XKxu0yYlSBibR_-15qv97rucZ9-KiBRsjYSfofjMaILIRNmHPWVUdPUFYfg21-OQp0IeboWXRRuUnQc6CYwSHM/w300-h400/IMG_0974.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5R6Mzh0w3CTjYjmysglOuGw80f3wJXlzoeecWAN4uWXTl-zTSimgXRctk_v1gyFNqf6zkHCSVbEmiMPNbHYPemT-ioI0lXkTJG_nUqCfT7rINYZBvbO8ucTKgI5ot5BjvjtgMzT-ZmPQi/s2048/IMG_0975.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5R6Mzh0w3CTjYjmysglOuGw80f3wJXlzoeecWAN4uWXTl-zTSimgXRctk_v1gyFNqf6zkHCSVbEmiMPNbHYPemT-ioI0lXkTJG_nUqCfT7rINYZBvbO8ucTKgI5ot5BjvjtgMzT-ZmPQi/w300-h400/IMG_0975.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <br /></div><p>Peeing on my own proved to be a challenge (especially given the swing out toilet in the middle of my hospital room...the things you take for granted!), as did maintaining the >90 oxygen level. But finally, around 2pm on Friday afternoon, I was discharged. The sun had never felt so good on my face.</p><p>In the day or two following, I learned a lot more about what had happened and how it all went down. I don't know how near death I was, but Craig said he feared for my life and for single dad life for awhile. (Google says one can die from losing half to two-thirds of their blood...that's about where I was.๐จ) I don't like to think about that. The doctors also told Craig that had I chosen to induce and deliver the babies (as opposed to the D&E), it would not have ended well. I don't know what that means exactly, nor do I want to.</p><p>Craig had to sign off on the fact that we will likely never be able to have more kids. Not a huge deal, as this pregnancy was not planned and he's since gotten a vasectomy, but it's still hard when someone else (semi) makes that decision for you. (Since they cut off blood supply to my uterus, it's possible for me to <i>get</i> pregnant, but the pregnancy itself would not be viable.)</p><p>I am so, so grateful for the doctors' quick thinking and fast plan of action. I'm thankful for meds and anesthesia that kept me under the whole time (I don't do well with needles and/or pain). I'm thankful for a husband who has been so supportive throughout this entire process (7+ weeks of surprises), and for our family and friends who rushed to our assistance in the hours and days following. More than anything, I am thankful to be alive.</p><p>Although I continue to bleed (similar to after having a baby), I am not in pain like I expected to be. I assumed I would experience a lot of cramping, and with the exception of that first night in the ICU, I have not felt much of that. My wrist and hands were swollen for a couple of days afterwards, and the bruises (from IVs) are intense nearly a week later, but the physical side effects have been minimal. I am going on six days of wearing a sports bra 24/7 to eliminate and dry up any milk that may come in...a normal aftereffect of a D&E. I'm hoping my lack of luck with breastfeeding in the past does me some favors here.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjeMw8-971C8RQaYacDM2t1AMslB1bKot31i2-60HVNYDQjfEj2uCPJgKTuxDuxYyMcWhuiBJki9BQdAdE_9xVxugc2Oh5tu2np7qZh8WIQFRgX73QIHJDujltZQgnkMyvcMVcffp8YT1s/s2048/IMG_1091.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjeMw8-971C8RQaYacDM2t1AMslB1bKot31i2-60HVNYDQjfEj2uCPJgKTuxDuxYyMcWhuiBJki9BQdAdE_9xVxugc2Oh5tu2np7qZh8WIQFRgX73QIHJDujltZQgnkMyvcMVcffp8YT1s/w300-h400/IMG_1091.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p>Losing a baby is hard. Losing two babies is hard. Losing babies that were not planned is hard. It's comforting to know there were two of them and they are together. They will forever and for always have each other. We are beyond blessed to have our three healthy boys and we know that. This would have been more devastating had we planned more kids since embolization has eliminated that option. We feel lucky and loved given all of the support we've received since. Truly, we can't thank our family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, students, and random Internet strangers enough. They have provided for us...and then some!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-4w7qbPvgzdhOaNUDdzJv0u1lidv2iMxEnq9IsCrLEZ3sQVWnKnUQLDVWDnjndR1QLLQK-Gg-r8xhxQ2IIjN2TNEUEUVY7iaIVXKBoqYOjssXw28j5-E8biL2gTwOfsGfLajw9Et_OGM/s2048/IMG_0982.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-4w7qbPvgzdhOaNUDdzJv0u1lidv2iMxEnq9IsCrLEZ3sQVWnKnUQLDVWDnjndR1QLLQK-Gg-r8xhxQ2IIjN2TNEUEUVY7iaIVXKBoqYOjssXw28j5-E8biL2gTwOfsGfLajw9Et_OGM/w400-h400/IMG_0982.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>People keep telling me how strong I am. I'm just doing what I can...living my life. I have three kids and a job to take care of. It's not like I can give up on life and sleep for 10 days. I've certainly been emotional, but I also want to do my best to move forward. It's ironic...I cried for a week when I found out I was pregnant. And now I've cried for a week because I'm not pregnant. But I find myself playing the "It could be worse" game. We didn't watch them suffer. It's not one of our living (on the outside) children. I wasn't 35 weeks pregnant. And in the end, I am healthy and happy.<br /><p></p>We opted to do genetic testing on the babies to see if that gives us any answers. However, in chatting with the OB before the procedure, it seems like it was less about a genetic issue and more about how the umbilical cords were attached. She and a team of specialists had reviewed my ultrasound images from Children's Mercy and, in their expert opinions, they think that because the umbilical cords had formed/attached so closely to one another, the babies were almost competing for nutrients. They were able to grow for 15 weeks because they were small enough and didn't need much. However, there comes a point when a baby can't survive if he or she isn't getting the proper amount of nutrients, and that was likely around 15 weeks for our babies. That is also semi-consistent with the previous findings from both Advent and Children's Mercy. Does that help us move forward? I don't know. I think the hardest part is understanding why God gave us these babies and then took them away. <br /><p>We were lucky enough to get footprints of both babies. They are itty bitty, about the size of my pinky fingernail. Physically, this is all we have to remember our twins. I have already ordered a necklace with the prints engraved so that my girls can always remain close to my heart. ๐ฃ๐</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIofzBYFUS88aQ1DiYJPom3g-6jvmcJ4Wg-8NQ8ZuVELS1uBwQGGP71cVhtHTUnhwjo7yj2DNffA2Xx4B19n6kVOkThu-tXSjyu6LXSL5Vrz57hRv4-ttoGDdlxj6JS2oKf2zN3anUca1G/s2048/ACS_0462.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIofzBYFUS88aQ1DiYJPom3g-6jvmcJ4Wg-8NQ8ZuVELS1uBwQGGP71cVhtHTUnhwjo7yj2DNffA2Xx4B19n6kVOkThu-tXSjyu6LXSL5Vrz57hRv4-ttoGDdlxj6JS2oKf2zN3anUca1G/w480-h640/ACS_0462.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><br /></p>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-83110853422580464232021-04-27T16:04:00.001-05:002021-05-05T15:20:38.759-05:00Angel Babies: A Miscarriage Story<p><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;">It is with a sad heart we share that our twin baby girls' hearts have stopped beating and they have become our little angel babies in heaven.</span></i></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9yPS031Gkhb2peFWMqwuItvDtbobqn40CXwXFNStxhyN6SHuNfQXO2cKwTm5VqX_twZip_rfQ3R3Y98Fxxgn0UdVmuBxTRnPtEzJr8WN2_yE15LXeBERCAG9Q3-wnI8pW8CRqDsspd4b/s2048/IMG_0923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9yPS031Gkhb2peFWMqwuItvDtbobqn40CXwXFNStxhyN6SHuNfQXO2cKwTm5VqX_twZip_rfQ3R3Y98Fxxgn0UdVmuBxTRnPtEzJr8WN2_yE15LXeBERCAG9Q3-wnI8pW8CRqDsspd4b/w400-h400/IMG_0923.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>The Story</b></p><p>I went to the doctor on Monday (at 15 weeks + 1 day) for what I expected to be a very low-key OB visit. I hadn't seen <i>my</i> doctor for five weeks, as my prior appointment had been with one of her colleagues. We talked about all of the recent findings (the discovery of the urachal cysts at Children's Mercy two weeks prior, and a possible diagnosis of gastrochisis at Advent Health two weeks before that) and did all of the normal OB things. She then attempted to find the heartbeats on the portable sono machine. For whatever reason, the doppler heartbeat monitor was never used. In the early weeks, I assumed it was because an itty bitty heartbeat can be hard to hear at such an early stage. At 15 weeks, however, I am left to assume a quick peek via sono is more standard in twins....perhaps it's hard to distinguish one twin heartbeat from another via doppler? Anyway, she couldn't see the heartbeats. I had grown pretty good at identifying them myself, and I couldn't see them either. She took me across the hall to the higher-tech sonogram machine/room. The sonographer came to the same, sad conclusion.</p><p>I Facetimed Craig, who had already checked in once, and had oddly enough asked, "Are their hearts still beating?" He said he had a bad feeling about that appointment. </p><p>The babies were measuring right at 15 weeks (15 + 3 to be exact) so it had likely just happened in the day or few prior. There is no explanation or reason. It could be the higher-risk mono-di twin pregnancy, could be the cysts, could be the IUD, could be a genetic issue, or could be a random coincidence.</p><p>Of course I googled "miscarriage at 15 weeks." I shouldn't be surprised after all we've been through.</p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: Merriweather, Verdana, Arial, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>A miscarriage in the second trimester is a pregnancy loss that happens specifically between 13 weeks 0 days and 20 weeks 0 days of gestation. The incidence of second trimester loss up to 20 weeks is less than 1%.</i> (<a href="https://www.verywellfamily.com/what-causes-second-trimester-miscarriages-2371490">source</a>)</span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><b>What happens next?</b></p><p>Today, we met with a specialist at KU Med. On Thursday, I am going back for a procedure called dilation and evacuation (D&E). They will put me under (anesthesia) and vaginally remove the pregnancy. It is similar to a D&C, but used more commonly during the second trimester when the babies have bones.</p><p>The other option was to induce labor and have me deliver the babies, but this option comes with more risk because of the twin pregnancy and the IUD. Quite honestly, I would rather be put under than have to endure labor knowing the end result.</p><p>We opted to do genetic testing on the remains of the babies. I don't know that we'll ever know 100% the cause of this, but the specialist recommended it, mostly because of the presence of the cysts. It may or may not give us a bit of closer.</p><p><br /></p><p><b>How are we doing?</b></p><p>We are doing surprisingly well. Of course, we are heartbroken and sad to have to grieve the loss of two little lives. We had not only warmed up to the idea of identical twin girls, but had made some initial plans and were even getting excited, so it's a hard pill to swallow. </p><p>At the same time, we are feeling at peace as we move forward. It's a very strange thing to mourn something we never planned for. In so many ways, these babies were going to change our lives drastically. Certainly, they would have brought a lot of joy, but a lot of unexpected changes, too...none of which we had planned for.</p><p>We've kept the mindset throughout this pregnancy that whatever happens happens. We have tried to focus on the positives and not dwell on the things we cannot change. It's hard to understand the reasons behind such a rollercoaster...like, <i>why did God give us these babies and put us through so much in just seven short weeks to inevitably take them away?</i> But then again, there is a lot about life we can't nor won't ever understand. </p><p>I don't regret anything. I don't regret making our announcement to the world, or telling our kids (yes, we have also shared with them that their baby sisters are in heaven...Rhett asked how they got to heaven when babies can't fly...Holden is sad he no longer gets bunk beds). I don't regret finding out the sex or taking baby bump photos. I don't regret feeling nervous or anxious or scared or excited. I will treasure the photos and the experience. I am thankful for these last seven (but really, 15) weeks and for all the support we have received. I am also beyond grateful to know they were girls. I consider these girls a gift I never expected to have.</p><p>Though we hadn't officially decided on names, Hollyn and Hadley were at the top of our list. I don't know that I will ever refer to them by name, but I will always know my little girls are watching over us as angels in heaven. I look forward to meeting them someday. ๐๐ผ๐ผ๐ผ๐ผ</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZlGP5aXmVC6wJppwSvqjftAyXvdmaGTotmSbbab1pXiQXrgKiMOj_1m8b2m5PgxKvTg8SEQ1dBpgglrvIPzGl4K9M6RNe3ut_TJRbb0jc-VGZnVtuxeP_qoj4DxH0wxG-uT8aIJv46I7/s1080/Life+Quote.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZlGP5aXmVC6wJppwSvqjftAyXvdmaGTotmSbbab1pXiQXrgKiMOj_1m8b2m5PgxKvTg8SEQ1dBpgglrvIPzGl4K9M6RNe3ut_TJRbb0jc-VGZnVtuxeP_qoj4DxH0wxG-uT8aIJv46I7/w640-h640/Life+Quote.png" width="640" /></a></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-39092002911874844542021-04-13T14:35:00.005-05:002021-04-23T08:38:17.438-05:00Ups and Downs: the Latest in the Surprise Saga<p>I'm seeing a pattern here. Every two(ish) weeks we get new, surprising, and sometimes difficult news. Here's how it's all gone down:</p><p><i><b>5 weeks ago on Monday, March 8 (8 weeks along)</b></i></p><p>Found out <a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2021/03/sides-surprise-twins-coming-this-fall.html" target="_blank">I was pregnant</a>. With an IUD. After experiencing what I thought was a miscarriage. Oh yeah, twins. Double shock of a lifetime. Doctor didn't want to overwhelm me so she didn't give me much information. She wanted to give me time to process the pregnancy before talking specifics. Craig was not with me.</p><p><i><b>4 weeks ago on Monday, March 15 (9 weeks along)</b></i></p><p>Back to my OB...this time with Craig. We were slowly but surely accepting the pregnancy. At this appointment, we talked a lot about the risks of pregnancy at 38, pregnancy with an IUD, pregnancy wiht a subchorionic hematoma, and pregnancy with twins. My doctor joined us for the ultrasound and Craig got the chance to ask several questions...something we didn't know would be possible with all the Covid restrictions. We left that appointment still overwhelmed and nervous for this new life, but also (mostly) positive and hopeful.</p><p><i><b>3 weeks ago on Monday, March 22 (10 weeks along)</b></i></p><p>Another OB appointment. This one was low key. Babies hearts were still beating via a quick check on ultrasound. Bleeding returned a day later. We were a little nervous to head to our Broken Bow, OK vacation but decided some time away would be good for the whole family. (The vacation is also when we told our kids about the babies.)</p><p><i><b>2 weeks ago on Monday, March 29 (11 weeks along)</b></i></p><p>My first appointment at Advent Health (formerly known as Shawnee Mission Hospital) to get to know the team of maternal fetal specialists and start looking more in depth at the babies. The main concern moving forward is Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome, which is basically when two babies who share a placenta get unequal distribution of nutrients...bad for both babies, but especially bad for the "donor" baby. At this appointment, babies looked great, except for a possible concern of gastroschisis for Baby A. Gastroschisis happens when the intestines don't migrate back into the stomach like they should around 10-11 weeks and would require post-birth surgery to put the intestines in place. The doctor wasn't 100% confident and asked me to come back in two weeks for confirmation of the diagnosis. Not the news we wanted and certainly nothing on our radar. (But also, after a little bit of research, not a huge, lifelong concern.)</p><p><i><b>1 week ago on Tuesday, April 6 (12 weeks along)</b></i></p><p>Another OB appointment. My doc was on vacation, so I met with another OB at my clinic. She was so sweet and caring. When I mentioned the possible diagnosis of gastrochisis, she basically replied, "Oh gosh, Baby will be fine!" In her own, more professional words, of course, but that was my take-away. She gave me every reason to believe that <i>if</i> something is "wrong," then perhaps this was one of the better care scenarios. She also reminded me that technology detects way more than it did 20 years ago, and oftentimes causes way more concern than it ever should. I left that appointment feeling very optimistic about Baby A's future.</p><p><i><b>Yesterday on Monday, April 12 (13 weeks along)</b></i></p><p>Two-week follow up at Advent Health to look once again at the possible gastroschisis in Baby A. The doctor said she wasn't seeing what she saw two weeks prior (even though looking at the prior images would once again lead her to the same conclusion). She said something didn't look right to her; although she couldn't pinpoint what it was and wanted another specialist to look more in depth. Keep in mind, she is already a maternal fetal specialist...but wanted us to go higher. (She mentioned a possible conjoined umbilical cord.) </p><p>We were referred to Children's Mercy for follow-up <i>the same day </i>(talk about scary). Two hours later, we were walking the halls of the children's hospital...the same walk we had taken <a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2012/04/mri-is-complete-now-we-wait.html" target="_blank">nine years to the month prior</a>. It really is the cutest hospital with the nicest employees, but it's hard seeing so many sick kids in the halls, in the pictures on the wall, etc. </p><p>We started with some questions about my prior pregnancies and deliveries (standard questions, I'm sure, but it always puts Craig on edge). Then we moved into the ultrasound. The sonographer was wonderful and talked us through most of it. Of course, she can't say much as she is not a doctor, but she did confirm that based on the positions of the babies (they were almost cuddling) it was hard to get some of the measurements. After the 1+ hour sonogram, we were left to wait. And wait and wait and wait. We waited over an hour for the doctor, which was pure misery. </p><p>We were finally greeted (around 4:45? we had been there since 2pm) by the sweetest doctor, Dr. Vlastos, an older man who kind of reminded me of the doctor on <i>This is Us</i>. Softer spoken, full of life advice, and very smart but great at explaining things in layman's terms. He was funny when appropriate, loved that I was a high school math teacher (told me one of his math teachers was the one to set him straight and busted his butt in gear), and even laughed when I told him I had calculated the mathematical probability of getting pregnant with identical twins while on an IUD. </p><p>Anyway, Dr. Vlastos said the conjoined umbilical cord was a non-issue; it was not, in fact, conjoined. He also confirmed that the membrane between the babies spanned the entire way across the placenta (something else they couldn't determine at Advent). But then he gave us the other news: both babies have what are called urachal cysts between the bladder and umbilical cord. If the cysts grow, they could interfere with the fluid (urine) excretion in the babies (and maybe fluid intake, too? we aren't sure). Worst case scenario: it could lead to death in one or both babies. Best case scenario: the babies are born, in which case, it will likely no longer be an issue because the cysts are in the umbilical cords, which get cut at birth. (I think I explained that correctly...this was my interpretation of what we learned. I can't promise it's 100% medically accurate.)</p><p>Moving forward, I will be continue to be monitored via level 2 ultrasounds every two weeks (back at Advent Health). They will watch to see if the cysts are growing. Another scenario: the cysts could remain the same size, which probably wouldn't be much of an issue, and/or the problem could resolve itself. We are definitely witness to that third scenario, as Brantley was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at 27 weeks that resolved on its own by 35 weeks. </p><p>There is no way to predict the outcome or know what will happen with the cysts or the babies. There is currently no way of removing the cysts. There are a few doctors in Europe who have tried unsuccessfully (ended up harming the baby). </p><p>The doctor we saw said he has seen this 12 times in his 25 years of practice. Needless to say, another rarity. IUD pregnancy + identical twins + urachal cysts in <i>both</i> babies (likely because they are formed from identical DNA). </p><p>I don't know that the gastroschisis was ruled out completely...he might have seen a small part of intestines in the umbilical cord, but it wasn't his focus and definitely not the main concern.</p><p>We left Children's Mercy (after 3.5 hours!) feeling more relieved than when we went in and more relieved than I was upon leaving Advent. Ideal? No. But I think it was helpful to know that, assuming the babies make it to birth, we're not looking at any longterm issues. It would be devastating to lose one or both babies, but at the same time I've said all along, <i>if</i> something happens, we're back where we started with our three healthy boys.</p><p>So there's the latest in this surprise sage. Of course, life is never easy. Five hours in hospitals was not how I thought my Monday would go, and we could certainly use some prayers, good news, and "normal" appointments moving forward. These babies apparently want to make a larger than life appearance into this world and are already checking the box for dramatic. Heaven help us.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCvqdh1M_11USn5lBICjoxrigZokRjzBl-am21eTG-akB8oNWYIV0dSL-rJamPD1EY_Fr2fKJuaHdkdYKzMgpcVtuuNCbGZpu-DhIFW_OHST0TQzYGoXWpbfJW0CCqBzdiu57DmYYcon_/s1080/God%252C+although+I+may+not+always+understand+my+circumstances%252C+You+do.+You+are+glorified+in+every+situation+and+season.+Nothing+is+too+difficult+for+You.+So+today%252C+I+just+want+to+rest+in+that.+I+ackknowlege+that+You+are+%25281%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCvqdh1M_11USn5lBICjoxrigZokRjzBl-am21eTG-akB8oNWYIV0dSL-rJamPD1EY_Fr2fKJuaHdkdYKzMgpcVtuuNCbGZpu-DhIFW_OHST0TQzYGoXWpbfJW0CCqBzdiu57DmYYcon_/w640-h640/God%252C+although+I+may+not+always+understand+my+circumstances%252C+You+do.+You+are+glorified+in+every+situation+and+season.+Nothing+is+too+difficult+for+You.+So+today%252C+I+just+want+to+rest+in+that.+I+ackknowlege+that+You+are+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-36090358985272151202021-04-01T08:55:00.002-05:002021-04-01T11:37:06.326-05:00Pregnancy Q&As<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know there are so, so many questions surrounding our recent announcement, so I've tried to compile all the answers here!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4B6L6hC_xE9rtDkNZ3j-jgwS0XEUODzN7ZKV3QADP15dhtHDVLPgMFnSwYHtQWxZS9qObwxOiU7FFT4mNHYtg7o79JtCrjtDJU_Y7VqZq1vdKXDiZIMtzU1_QXTs6Kt7OomU3KbqnpFP/s1440/4F9933D6-5B61-4F94-9B61-B042A30C5124.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4B6L6hC_xE9rtDkNZ3j-jgwS0XEUODzN7ZKV3QADP15dhtHDVLPgMFnSwYHtQWxZS9qObwxOiU7FFT4mNHYtg7o79JtCrjtDJU_Y7VqZq1vdKXDiZIMtzU1_QXTs6Kt7OomU3KbqnpFP/w640-h640/4F9933D6-5B61-4F94-9B61-B042A30C5124.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How far along are you?</h2><div>As of today, I am 11 weeks and 4 days. I know that can be a bit early to share with the world, but after what we've been through the last three weeks, I needed to get it out there.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Are you going to find out the sex of the babies?</h2><div>We already know. ๐ The babies were enough of a surprise...I don't need any further surprises! We did genetic testing at 10 weeks, which also determines the sex. The babies are identical so either boy/boy or girl/girl. I promise to share soon! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Are these babies destined to be boys? Do you have a preference?</h2><div>One would think, huh? I put my money on boys! </div><div><br /></div><div>I can honestly see benefits of both. I have loved every second of being a boy mom (x3) and concluded that I'm actually pretty good at it! (Except I don't like injuries.) I think there is something special about having all the same....even if it means five boys! </div><div><br /></div><div>At the same time, I grew up assuming I'd have girls. I never really entertained the thought of having boys because, "I'm way too girly for boys." I had given up on that dream and had accepted that it would never become my reality...and was/am perfectly content with that. Obviously girls would be something special, but boys will be a-okay, too! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Do twins run in your family?</h2><div>Through my research over the past three weeks, I've learned that identical twins are not hereditary! Fraternal twins can be (the mother's releasing of two eggs at a time), but identical twins are random and spontaneous! My great-grandmother was an identical twin (I think) but again, that has no impact on these babies!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How do you know they're identical?</h2><div>The ultrasound showed that these babies share a placenta, which confirms they are identical. Identical twins could also have their own placenta, depending on when the embryo split. The earlier the split, the more likely the babies are to have their own placenta. But shared placenta always means identical, as fraternal twins will always each have their own.</div><div><br /></div><div>Side note: Our babies are mo-di (monochorionic/diamniotic) twins. Shared placenta but they each have their own amniotic sac. This type of twin pregnancy is more risky than separate placentas (di-di twins), but less risky than twins who have a shared placenta and shared sac (mo-mo). (Mo-mo twins result when the embryo splits later in pregnancy...conjoined twins happen when the split is even later.)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6VesxXKthIOm0OFtVAJDwQyC4tFPRJz-XRRK8OYd157Tr7gSIy1tYPxhq3q3eDB592_VMy2ZiSWTsgYjXIBMQqbv0ZIEb3aQNNfHT62UYn3cKJA3YilEU-03JfV1zmbwQ10lBJ6rWfFP/s1155/537053-did-twins-infographic.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="993" data-original-width="1155" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6VesxXKthIOm0OFtVAJDwQyC4tFPRJz-XRRK8OYd157Tr7gSIy1tYPxhq3q3eDB592_VMy2ZiSWTsgYjXIBMQqbv0ZIEb3aQNNfHT62UYn3cKJA3YilEU-03JfV1zmbwQ10lBJ6rWfFP/w400-h344/537053-did-twins-infographic.webp" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How are you coping? How are you feeling?</h2><p>I'm coping as well as you might expect...maybe even a little better?! I still have an overwhelming amount of fear and anxiousness that an unplanned pregnancy brings, but I have decided to focus on the positives and try to be excited. I'm feeling mostly good. I have moments of nausea, but it could be worse and I've never thrown up at school!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Is this pregnancy similar or different from your others?</h2><p>It's close to the same as my first two! I was sick(ish) with both Brantley and Holden (nausea on occasion but able to cope with crackers and ginger ale, only a few instances of throwing up) but not one lick of morning sickness with Rhett. It's so weird how pregnancies (especially those that are the same sex) can be so different!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Are you going to continue working after babies are born?</h2><p>This has been the most asked question! I plan to! I love my job and enjoy having a purpose outside of being a mom. I enjoy summers off with my kids ("seasonal SAHM" as I like to call it), but I have never wanted to stay home full time/year-round. I also enjoy bringing in an income, albeit not much, but it makes me feel less guilty about shopping. And I just love math way too much to quit! That being said, who the heck knows what the future will bring. Five kids is <i>a lot </i>and we will do what we have to do!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What are your biggest fears? What are you most nervous about?</h2><p>Oh gosh, everything from the weight gain (and weight loss) to the health of the babies to childbirth (my first three were born in 6, 4, and 2 hours, respectively...I've always been terrified of a fourth baby for fear that he/she might be born on the side of the road...I also neeeeeeeeed an epidural and I'm terrified of giving birth without) to the potential of getting put on bed rest to a possible c-section after three vaginal births to a baby being born with the Mirena stuck to its head (I don't even know if that's possible?) to breastfeeding x2 and sleepless nights x2 to life with five kids. I'm sad about missing out on life experiences that simply won't happen with a family of seven. (Big vacations, airfare, going to dinner, etc.)</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How does it feel knowing there are two babies inside of you?</h2><p>Very surreal....like a dream! Ask me again in 20 weeks when I can actually <i>feel</i> two babies inside of me! I'm so curious to compare a twin pregnancy with my previous single pregnancies. I'm terrified of what it could mean for my body!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How long were you in shock?</h2><p>I think I'm still in shock! (It may span the entire pregnancy๐คฃ) I cried every day for just over a week. And then I decided there is nothing I can do so I might as well embrace it! Don't get me wrong--I'm sure there will still be overwhelmingly emotional moments days, week, months, and years, but I am trying to be optimistic and grateful for these extra blessings.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is the right thing to say to a friend having unexpected pregnancy/unplanned twins?</h2><p>That is a great question!!! It feels weird when people say "Congratulations!" I usually respond with "Thanks?" I don't dislike it (and absolutely don't blame anyone for that reaction, it's natural and babies are, in fact, blessings that should be congratulated), but it also doesn't feel justified. If that makes any sense? I actually appreciate when people say they are sorry, that they know this wasn't our plan, and that they will pray for peace and understanding. By all means, say "Congrats" but make sure you let them know you are there for them if they need a shoulder to cry on because it's inevitable and very reasonable with such a life change.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Will you take weekly photos or do blog "bumpdates" like you did with your other three pregnancies?</h2><p>I love a good baby bump, so I will absolutely document this pregnancy with photos! Probably not weekly, as I've done before. I don't know about the "bumpdates." I quit blogging because I couldn't find the time, so I probably won't commit to anything. Maybe just some updates via Instagram!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Will you have to move, or is your house big enough for a family of seven?</h2><p>We live in a five bedroom house (fifth bedroom is currently a workout room in the basement). Although I anticipate a kid moving down there someday, it won't be anytime soon. The babies will share a room, as will two of our older boys. They are already fighting over who gets bunk beds! ๐คฃ Our house, specifically the main level with a very open floor plan, isn't huge, but we are blessed to live where we do and have no plans to move! (My neighbors are also my besties...I can't possibly leave such a solid support system!)</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Will you do any genetic testing?</h2><p>We have already done the non-invasive screening via blood work at 10 weeks. It detects, with a 99% accuracy rate, some of the more common genetic abnormalities (Down Syndrome, Trisomy, etc.). The results came back normal. That is also how we already know the sex of the babies.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How does this happen with Mirena in place correctly?</h2><p>There is zero explanation--other than no method of birth control is 100% effective! My Mirena was in perfect position to prevent pregnancy. Apparently God really wanted us to have these babies! My doctor has seen a few few IUD pregnancies through her years of practice, but never twins. She was quite shocked herself.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Did your doctor remove the IUD?</h2><p>My doctor tried at my second appointment (9 weeks) but as my uterus has grown, it shifted upwards and she couldn't safely reach it. </p><p><i>If</i> it can be safely removed, that is ideal (mainly to give the baby/babies more room to grow). However, if not, it isn't a huge deal, as the hormones released are the same hormones your body produces naturally while pregnant. The biggest concern with an IUD pregnancy is that the pregnancy will be ectopic. Once an ultrasound determines the pregnancy is safely implanted in the uterus, I don't think the IUD is a major concern. In fact, it can be more risky to remove it (lead to miscarriage) than to just leave it in there.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Will you have a baby shower?</h2><p>I wouldn't argue! We have sold or donated everything so a shower would be a welcomed idea. We are essentially starting over. </p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Have you gone back and read what you wrote about being done having babies?</h2><p>Yes! I've said for four years now that I wouldn't mind a fourth baby, but it's also not something we would have ever planned for! Two-thirds of our previous pregnancies were high risk (Brantley had hydrocephalus, Rhett was high risk for DS). We were content with three healthy babies and the thought of trying for a fourth seemed similar to playing a game of Russian Roulette. However, I've also said I would secretly love for God to make it happen.</p><p>In February, I did one of those question box things on Instagram. Someone (a former student, also a mom x3) asked about any more potential Sides babies. My response reflected what I just stated above. Ironically, I would have been pregnant at the time, I just didn't know it yet! I truly think God used that question as a way to mentally prepare me for what He knew was coming.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iAMERNk20OM6v_BQnKo0UYYBD2a6l3Qt-s9gXDEwLVfafx-IIYzjQ44DWcgqzHtzQFhh6iwf9am6HfZmK1oYMWGSnrSwgFX79UiF476wI-CYM_18IWrAEa15XXBGxgpa05O_uMFEDcFa/s2048/A2E3EB56-27CE-414D-BABD-E63996050EF2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iAMERNk20OM6v_BQnKo0UYYBD2a6l3Qt-s9gXDEwLVfafx-IIYzjQ44DWcgqzHtzQFhh6iwf9am6HfZmK1oYMWGSnrSwgFX79UiF476wI-CYM_18IWrAEa15XXBGxgpa05O_uMFEDcFa/w360-h640/A2E3EB56-27CE-414D-BABD-E63996050EF2.JPG" width="360" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Has Craig booked his vasectomy?</h2><p>Booked and done! โ๏ธโ๏ธ๐คฃ How often does the husband get a vasectomy the same day as the gender reveal?! </p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What kind of mom-mobile will you get?</h2><p>I already drive a Toyota Sienna that technically fits 6 kids. It's a little harder with bulky carseats but I'm determined to keep that thing! Craig has mentioned trading in his Highlander for a Tahoe or something similar.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What are you concerned about regarding your boys? Space, time, feelings, etc.?</h2><p>I wouldn't say I'm too concerned about our boys. Kids are resilient and they will adapt quickly! It will be a new normal for all of us, but I think they are going to be great big brothers and helpers to these babies! When I was pregnant with my second, I remember seeing a quote that has always stuck with me. <b><i>"You love is not divided when adding more kids...it's multiplied."</i></b></p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How did you tell your kids? Are they excited?</h2><p>We bought some of those gold OH BABY BABY balloons and took them to Oklahoma, wrapped and deflated. We gave the boys the gift on our first morning there and had them unwrap it. It took us over 20 minutes to inflate the balloons and then we had to put the message together. It didn't go super well. ๐คฃ The letters wouldn't stay upright and I was thinking each word was one piece instead of single letters. So needless to say, it didn't go quite as planned......but neither will life with five kids! Our oldest figured it out! If you go to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNBOqDPJ1VH/" target="_blank">this IG post</a> and scroll, there are some videos.</p><p>As expected, none of the boys showed a ton of emotion. However, I think they are excited, despite what they might say. Brantley sent his friends the sweetest message on Messenger Kids.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8gb8YlIsduhaICgZWW56VV21iIJTQdLFMpygUASch2gj7eJN_wHA87bWmyWrGzB9OYP8Xpw5DP72dYm-4aT96w104MZVRpt4SE_C9h8EhHVpET_H8XtfgHZmfTlUNxUlO3G-rA7zM-ft/s2702/IMG_9061.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="2702" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8gb8YlIsduhaICgZWW56VV21iIJTQdLFMpygUASch2gj7eJN_wHA87bWmyWrGzB9OYP8Xpw5DP72dYm-4aT96w104MZVRpt4SE_C9h8EhHVpET_H8XtfgHZmfTlUNxUlO3G-rA7zM-ft/w640-h277/IMG_9061.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Do you have names? Will you share when you decide?</h2><p>We do not yet have names and haven't discussed it much, but I still have lists in my phone from 2012! For whatever reason, I never deleted them! </p><p>I don't know if we'll announce once we decide, or keep it secret until birth. We kept it super top-secret the first time, mostly-secret the second time, and semi-secret (off social media but shared with a lot of friends) the third time. I do enjoy keeping an element of surprise, but this is also our 4th and 5th go-around so all rules just kind of fly out the window!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is the combined probability of all of this happening?</h2><p>0.5% (0.005) of getting pregnant on Mirena x 0.4% (0.004) of that embryo splitting to result in identical twins = 0.002% (0.00002) combined probability or 1/50,000. โผ๏ธโผ๏ธโผ๏ธ</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Will you get the Covid vaccine?</h2><p>Already done with both doses! I got the first before I knew I was pregnant. My doctor told me to absolutely get the second. Studies are showing that the antibodies can be passed onto baby/babies when a pregnant mom gets it! Thank you, science!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How can people best support you through this time?</h2><p>Prayers more than anything! Prayers for a smooth pregnancy, for healthy babies, and for the sanity to raise five kids.</p>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-41180900987617861182021-03-30T15:09:00.001-05:002021-03-30T15:16:29.323-05:00Sides SURPRISE Twins Coming this Fall<p style="text-align: center;"><i>(Written on Saturday, March 13)</i></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nS9mCqwc7Z8MPXwBtmbOIJhILF_AXnadt6TSDLFRZI-2_oyi69Y4Y_Aj5VRZlHW5nVljq8IHG0qPvId6dNPqoVc1VR_dzheO3upZ7PeW2MRTs156M0HtIW13CeTEimIMhDX6D4VWAB3R/s2048/IMG_8557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nS9mCqwc7Z8MPXwBtmbOIJhILF_AXnadt6TSDLFRZI-2_oyi69Y4Y_Aj5VRZlHW5nVljq8IHG0qPvId6dNPqoVc1VR_dzheO3upZ7PeW2MRTs156M0HtIW13CeTEimIMhDX6D4VWAB3R/w480-h640/IMG_8557.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><i><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></i><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">It's been eight days since I learned I was pregnant, seven since I thought I was miscarrying, and five since I found out I hadn't miscarried and I was, in fact, still pregnant. With twins. </p><p style="text-align: center;">T w i n s.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Did I mention I have a IUD?</p><p style="text-align: center;">T w i n s.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Unplanned and unexpected.</p><p style="text-align: center;">T w i n s. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Also known as kids <i>four</i> and <i>five</i>. Let that sink in.</p><p style="text-align: center;">T w i n s.</p><p style="text-align: center;">The Mirena (IUD) is over 99% effective.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Yet...</p><p style="text-align: center;">t w i n s.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Identical, too. So not only am I the less than 1 in 100 women who got pregnant on the Mirena, but that embryo split and resulted in two identical twin babies. The chances of that, I've read, are 1 in 250.</p><p style="text-align: center;">๐ณ</p><p style="text-align: center;">Alas, let's start at the beginning.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Around February 18, I started bleeding. More like spotting. Which was weird, because in 4+ years on the Mirena, I had never once had a period. A few days later the spotting had turned into a full blown period (or so I thought). A good reminder that I was due for my annual obgyn checkup (a couple months late), so I called and scheduled an appointment for the following Friday.</p><p style="text-align: center;">The appointment came and went, as did my "period." The nurse practitioner I saw (I always schedule my annual check ups with a NP....save the doctors for the women who really need them......ahem, me in about a week and a half) said my Mirena was in position and the bleeding could be a normal thing; she said to call if it continued.</p><p style="text-align: center;">That same day I had my first bout of morning sickness. I just didn't know it at the time. Craig and I were supposed to meet for a day date at a local brewery; we still made it work, but I almost cancelled because I felt so sick. </p><p style="text-align: center;">The nausea continued the following week. I wasn't sick enough to stay home from school and had only moments of nausea versus full days, but it was definitely enough to notice and wonder what was going on. I even told Craig (and a few friends) that "the closest I could equate it to was morning sickness" The bleeding also returned. I chalked it up (both issues) to an imbalance of hormones and went on with my day. I also called my doctor's office to further discuss the bleeding, but of course it was a Friday afternoon (March 5) and by the time they returned my call, the office was closed for the weekend. The nurse told me to call on Monday to schedule an "IUD check."</p><p style="text-align: center;">Later that evening (at Brantley's basketball game), I mentioned my issues to a nurse practitioner friend/neighbor, mainly because I wanted to know if she had any NP friends who specialized in OBGYN. She didn't, but asked if I'd taken a pregnancy test. I'm pretty sure I laughed. One, I had the Mirena which is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, and two, I'd been bleeding for two weeks, a sure sign that one is <i>not</i> pregnant.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Nonetheless, I had Craig stop on the way home so I could get a test. I got the cheapest one. We went straight to a friend's house and I didn't think twice about taking it in their bathroom, 1000% expecting it to be negative. Thank goodness my friend Ali was in there with me because the blue "pregnant" line appeared faster than the control line, something I had never experienced, and I was floored...I needed the support. (Our other babies were all planned, so I basically peed on a stick the moment I could, and had to squint to determine whether there really <i>was</i> a pregnant line.) </p><p style="text-align: center;">My first thought was confusion. Followed by panic, nervousness, sadness, and an overwhelming amount of emotion. I had always said I wouldn't mind a fourth baby, but in that moment, I was terrified and decided it wasn't at all what I wanted. </p><p style="text-align: center;">My thoughts went straight to the IUD. As much as I didn't want that positive pregnancy test, I was immediately worried for that baby and what the IUD might mean. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Ali got Craig and another friend, Katie (the NP)...I honestly can't remember who was there first. Craig, of course, was a bit freaked out, but to my surprise, he seemed very grounded, and even a bit...excited?</p><p style="text-align: center;">By that point several of the basketball dads were there, so of course there was no hiding of our news. One minute I was living my normal life, even drinking a beer; the next I was pregnant, and several of our neighbor friends already knew.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I didn't sleep that night. I just couldn't shake the feelings of anxiety brought on by an unplanned pregnancy.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>The weight gain. Missing out on social gatherings. Three upcoming vacations. Constant worry about a healthy baby. Potential labor without an epidural (track records of 6, 4, and 2 hours of labor, respectively...surely this baby will be born on the highway). Sleepless nights. The stress of breastfeeding. Maternity leave with no plans of doing so. Losing the weight. So many months of pregnancy. All at 38 years old. Which is considered "old" when having a baby.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;">The next morning, I woke up nauseous and threw up a total of six times that day. At first I thought it was morning sickness. Looking back, I think it was morning sickness on top of anxiety, but add in a hangover. I didn't have more than three drinks the night before (before the positive test, of course), but had experienced the same thing the weekend prior (feeling way too hungover given the few drinks I'd had). My theory is that your body reacts more violently to alcohol while pregnant. </p><p style="text-align: center;">A few hours later, the bleeding returned, only it was worse than it had ever been. It was so bad that I could only assume I was experiencing a miscarriage. Honestly, the blood brought feelings of relief, as I hadn't had time to process the pregnancy, let alone become emotionally attached. At one point, it was so bad that I told Craig I needed to go to the ER; instead I got ahold of the on-call doctor at my OBGYN office. He said there was nothing the ER could do for me, and to avoid it (because of Covid) unless I was experiencing severe pain, as that could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, which can result from an IUD pregnancy. I never felt pain beyond mild period cramps.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I was feeling mostly better on Sunday but decided to take the next day off so that I could call my OB's office and go as soon as they could get me in.</p><p style="text-align: center;">On Monday, March 8, I went in at 10:45. Craig offered to go with me, but I was feeling very much at peace about the situation and wasn't sure of the Covid restrictions anyway, so I told him it wasn't necessary. </p><p style="text-align: center;">The sonographer started with a urine test. It showed an instant "pregnant" result...no surprise, I'd just experienced the same thing less than 72 hours prior. In the sonogram room, I explained to her what I had experienced over the weekend and she began the sonogram.</p><p style="text-align: center;">It wasn't but a few minutes later when she said, "There are actually two in there."</p><p style="text-align: center;">I immediately starting shaking. <i>Two?! How?? What?! Why?! </i>What on earth was Craig going to say?! How would he react? How is this even possible?! The only thing I could mutter was, "And they're alive?" She proceeded to show me both heartbeats, beating away. I sat there quietly (except for lots of heavy breathing, which in a mask, is not easy) while she continued taking measurements. She did mention that I was taking it better than most people. I think I was in such shock that it was hard to react!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Both twins were measuring at eight weeks. She also determined that they shared a placenta, which meant they were identical.</p><p style="text-align: center;">When she left me alone (with some crackers and juice) to calm my shakes, I Facetimed Craig. He could barely hear me due to a poor connection, but heard enough to know that I was still pregnant...with twins. I'm not sure if he hung up on me due to pure shock, or because the sonographer came back into the room, and honestly I didn't blame him either way.</p><p style="text-align: center;">The songrapher transferred me to an exam room, where I first met with the nurse practitioner. I cried, and in some way, I think she felt at fault. It wasn't her fault <i>at all</i> but I think she felt guilty for not recognizing the potential signs of pregnancy the week prior at my annual checkup. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Because the doctor's office had squeezed me in on a whim, I was not supposed to meet with my OB; however, given the circumstances, they found a way. (See? Save those doctors for the ones who <i>really</i> need them!) My doctor gave me the longest, sweetest hug ever. (So much for Covid rules.) She said there was no explanation for what had happened. She briefly explained the situation (mono di twins) but didn't want to overwhelm me with information. She suggested I take some time to process and said we'd chat more in a week. Of course, she also explained that I had options, but terminating this pregnancy, when it seemed they were gifts from God, was never an option for me.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Upon leaving the office, I sat in the parking lot and cried. I called Craig, and together we called my mom, who was shocked but so supportive. It felt like such a dream...or nightmare?</p><p style="text-align: center;">That afternoon, I went and got a pedicure. It was a Monday and I had taken the day off work. My kids were in school and I just needed to do something for myself. Something normal. So I got a pedicure, while Craig went for a run. We both needed to cope in our own way.</p><p style="text-align: center;">We shared the news with several neighbors that evening. Since I took the pregnancy test in the presence of so many of them, they knew about the pregnancy and potential miscarriage. We couldn't leave them hanging. I also don't think I could have gotten through those first few days without the love and support of our friends. Of course, they were all so excited. It's easy to be excited when it's not your own body/family/finances. But I don't also fault them one bit; I'd be excited if it was someone else, too!</p><p style="text-align: center;">We have not yet shared with our own kids. I'm not sure what we're waiting for, other than a special way to share the news. I have no idea how they're going to react.</p><p style="text-align: center;">It's important to note that I don't fault or blame anyone. Not my doctor, not Craig, and certainly not God. Craig and I have joked that it is each of our faults - me because I never wanted him to get that vasectomy (Mirena is over 99% effective, they say...), him because - duh - he wanted to do it on that <i>one</i> particular night when all the stars were aligned! But truly, I am not mad at anyone. </p><p style="text-align: center;">It is interesting to be pregnant when it is not planned. When planned, you worry constantly, mostly about a potential miscarriage at this point. But when it's not planned, there are few expectations. I'm certainly not hoping for a miscarriage, but open and at peace with whatever may happen. </p><p style="text-align: center;">At the same time, I don't want to appear ungrateful for these blessings, as there are so many women who would kill to be in my shoes and I want to be empathic of that. I could have received news much worse than what I did (cancer, etc.) and so I'm trying to focus on the positives. Don't get me wrong...I cried every day for over a week, but concluded that we've been gifted these babies; therefore, I am trying to be grateful for the opportunity. (The crying has since turned to laughs because let's be honest, this story is just crazy and one can't help but laugh at the absurdness! It's something that happens to a friend of a friend of a friend of a friend...certainly not to you!)</p><p style="text-align: center;">Oh, did I mention we've sold everything?! Of course we have! The last of our baby things as recently as January, the same month we would have conceived. Life can be so ironic. </p><p style="text-align: center;">As for the bleeding, it's due to something called a subchorionic hematoma, which happens in some pregnancies. It could be a result of the Mirena, but could also be unrelated. It's not something to be super concerned about, but it does put me (the babies) at a slightly higher risk for complications. </p><p style="text-align: center;">IUD pregnancy + twins + subchoionic hematoma + advanced maternal age = high risk city. Prayers are welcomed.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Speaking of the Mirena, at this point, it's less risky to leave it in there than try to remove it. So it shall stay put for the time being. Apparently there are stories of babies born with an IUD in hand.</p><p style="text-align: center;">So there's the story. <i>Our</i> story. Of our soon-to-be family of seven.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3LMFE4L1K7YYQMvreCsFMkjpvGRRPUW3g4CjkfF4msJIbDm6FbQapEOSM2d8KRlFMt_o6oK5ngweUhjOzmcEL-d2K50APNRmJ19S4py2NJ5w8CpxBhBfKTfnwNUQKe7GUUzd4IihN1Xv/s2048/IMG_5463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3LMFE4L1K7YYQMvreCsFMkjpvGRRPUW3g4CjkfF4msJIbDm6FbQapEOSM2d8KRlFMt_o6oK5ngweUhjOzmcEL-d2K50APNRmJ19S4py2NJ5w8CpxBhBfKTfnwNUQKe7GUUzd4IihN1Xv/w300-h400/IMG_5463.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnxKYokHETnowHlyfJEeGDueB8z9EnR83JYgfEcFkC-danNzaOCnORoY2Cs7BneBN82Z0XdcLXr8wOcTOLop8FnjrLDu0p2dlxxQwjq33q38j6Sx_1mqQmobHywvcTkKeYTTDUBIlUL5k/s2048/63693787216__299101C7-F67A-4B3A-B754-6B2F9B87A7F0.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnxKYokHETnowHlyfJEeGDueB8z9EnR83JYgfEcFkC-danNzaOCnORoY2Cs7BneBN82Z0XdcLXr8wOcTOLop8FnjrLDu0p2dlxxQwjq33q38j6Sx_1mqQmobHywvcTkKeYTTDUBIlUL5k/w300-h400/63693787216__299101C7-F67A-4B3A-B754-6B2F9B87A7F0.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div></div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-8644478904075465812018-11-09T18:57:00.004-06:002018-11-09T18:57:57.905-06:00Family Photos 2018<div style="text-align: center;">
I have never despised family photos quite like my husband. He really, truly dreads them like I dread going to the dentist. But, he obliges because a) he knows it's important to me and b) he appreciates having annual photos as the boys grow. I have never loved the process, but always leave thinking "That wasn't bad." Until this year. Oh, holy heavens. I'm not sure I have ever <strike>wanted</strike> needed a drink so badly. Allow me to recap.</div>
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<i>We meet up with our photographer and say our hellos. Brantley falls in the tall grass. On purpose, of course. Rhett wants nothing to do with the camera. Brantley falls in the grass again. Rhett will not stand...or sit...by his brothers for a photo. Holden forgets how to smile naturally. Brantley falls down, again. (For the love of God, stop falling!) Rhett will not stand out of arms reach of me. Holden is still smiling ridiculously. Quite similar to this emoji actually --> ๐ฌ. Brantley falls for a fourth time. And officially makes our photographer question what she's gotten herself into, as she's eight months pregnant with her first boy. By now Rhett refuses to even look at the camera, let alone sit for a "brothers" photo. And Holden still can't smile.</i></div>
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So yeah, I left feeling very defeated and questioning my existence as a mother. And obviously, with very low expectations for our photos. Yet somehow, our photographer did what photographers do, worked her magic, and gave us photos beyond anything I had imagined.</div>
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So, moral of the story. Have a miserable time. Set your expectations very low. And then, expect to be pleasantly surprised by the outcome. Now, I'm off to design our Christmas card!</div>
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Photos by <a href="http://www.maylynphotography.com/" target="_blank">Maylyn Photography</a></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-63812335395134192972018-06-20T06:00:00.000-05:002018-06-20T10:58:38.291-05:00A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words...or in my Case, a Great Mother's Day Gift!<div style="text-align: center;">
Pictures are so important to me. And unfortunately, I don't have the kind of husband who gets excited about taking photos for me, especially the candid photos that I love oh so much. So this year, for Mother's Day, I went ahead and booked myself a Mommy & Me session with a local photographer. The session included copyright to five photos...but of course, I couldn't pick just five so I shelled out $50 for five more! (Now I know why she takes so many more...tricky tricky!) Hey, they're only little once, right?!<br />
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Photos:<br />
<a href="http://www.beccablackburnphotography.com/">Becca Blackburn Photography</a><br />
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Outfit Deets:<br />
<a href="https://rstyle.me/n/c3eys8cc7zf">dress</a> \\ <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cs6e4jcc7zf">mama necklace</a> \\ <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/c3axvccc7zf">earrings</a> \\ <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cyppw4cc7zf">shoes</a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Boys outfits are old)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQ-pMWYLOMD_G2rdqgub_DE2f3M8tQHVsCttSh01BsE6A73PajRZ_ffLc42gFs1rwfXbAQuCq8MUttL2vtI7Ixmuj3FzqmSILQS8tTweCtBMzETQCPlOIKTMdYw61jg-TfGmlPDYTraSN/s1600/SidesMommy%2526Me-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQ-pMWYLOMD_G2rdqgub_DE2f3M8tQHVsCttSh01BsE6A73PajRZ_ffLc42gFs1rwfXbAQuCq8MUttL2vtI7Ixmuj3FzqmSILQS8tTweCtBMzETQCPlOIKTMdYw61jg-TfGmlPDYTraSN/s640/SidesMommy%2526Me-13.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuf6ZXh3CXjaAWUXjIlQPhKbx0MGKj_m9iZfbql7QfsJGAUX61Zq2OLkr0cEctUV7amOwtoWaGOErGSZMXvQ4GtkVkBgbw3ZS-vOqfox0s-TBIqEpNjTk4Uh5zSBIo7rzRoFuEsqUY_e3S/s1600/SidesMommy%2526Me-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuf6ZXh3CXjaAWUXjIlQPhKbx0MGKj_m9iZfbql7QfsJGAUX61Zq2OLkr0cEctUV7amOwtoWaGOErGSZMXvQ4GtkVkBgbw3ZS-vOqfox0s-TBIqEpNjTk4Uh5zSBIo7rzRoFuEsqUY_e3S/s640/SidesMommy%2526Me-15.jpg" width="426" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYf3CT_EeIG5FVUaWUlkl_ZYdGlRSZEC00dJIvu-E01lo2dOUtPiR1T8H5LhbR1lu4PerMNfnLKfM9sw7R4IsIpd8aSJnH-IyQCgAGzMJy59iiya6qOoeAx3jJIy9x_YI-ZMTStUVdq-YG/s1600/SidesMommy%2526Me-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYf3CT_EeIG5FVUaWUlkl_ZYdGlRSZEC00dJIvu-E01lo2dOUtPiR1T8H5LhbR1lu4PerMNfnLKfM9sw7R4IsIpd8aSJnH-IyQCgAGzMJy59iiya6qOoeAx3jJIy9x_YI-ZMTStUVdq-YG/s640/SidesMommy%2526Me-22.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-66187439647687795952018-06-19T06:00:00.000-05:002018-06-19T06:00:05.309-05:00Saving Some Serious Moolah with Wikibuy<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is sponsored by Wikibuy. #ad</i><br />
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Hi, friends! Just popping in for some old fashion sharing of a good deal! Raise your hand if you enjoy saving money.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">๐</span></span></div>
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That's what I thought. Have you heard of the website <a href="https://wikibuy.com/">Wikibuy</a>? I hadn't either until about a month ago. </div>
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What is it, you ask? <a href="https://wikibuy.com/">Wikibuy</a> operates as a website and Chrome extension that finds you the best deals across the web on products you love! Wikibuy does not sell the products; they do, however, match you with the best prices on the products you are going to purchase anyway!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Here's how you can use Wikibuy to help save you money:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(I'll demonstrate a few of the options below.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 // Use Wikibuy to compare prices when shopping Amazon.com.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2 // Use Wikibuy to find and apply coupon codes from hundreds of retailers. Retailers like my faves --> Target and Old Navy! ๐๐๐</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3 // Use Wikibuy to get credit back on purchases. (I assume this option is similar to Ebates, but I haven't specifically looked into it.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4 // Use Wikibuy to notify you when prices drop.</span></div>
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Consider Wikibuy your online personal shopping assistant. It's easy. And free. Check the 60-second video at <a href="https://wikibuy.com/about">this link</a> for an explanation better than what I can give. ๐</div>
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Now, let me demonstrate a few of the money-saving options.</div>
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First up, Amazon. It's 2018. We all do a ton of shopping on Amazon, amiright? When shopping on Amazon, Wikibuy will compare their price with prices across the web. Take <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/c5zkppcc7zf">this swimsuit</a> for example. The Wikibuy extension will verify that Amazon has the lowest price on this suit. If they do not, Wikibuy will direct you to the website with lowest price, and I believe, Wikibuy factors in shipping (or Prime lack of shipping) costs. You can also add the item to your Watchlist, allowing you to watch for deals and sales on that specific item. Genius, right?!</div>
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Also, don't you totally want this suit now? Here's the <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/c5zkppcc7zf">link to buy</a> for anyone interested.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx5igATU48aq_o2ZTiC7BDZpbLMv-kALuBtaiL_zEBAyfABcQoUjTZkAWOvJ2iK4BjxX7_cU1BDGo8xiLHUzksrPt1v9Z7jWoAQIb_2pd6_a2E8wTDW7zSjAJPZfcW4kUMN9WldU1QlejI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+2.02.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1228" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx5igATU48aq_o2ZTiC7BDZpbLMv-kALuBtaiL_zEBAyfABcQoUjTZkAWOvJ2iK4BjxX7_cU1BDGo8xiLHUzksrPt1v9Z7jWoAQIb_2pd6_a2E8wTDW7zSjAJPZfcW4kUMN9WldU1QlejI/s640/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+2.02.14+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Super cool, but those options aren't even my favorite part of Wikibuy. You guys--Wikibuy helped me save over $100 when shopping at Gap.com! Allow me to demonstrate. </div>
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Here's my GAP cart <i><b>before</b></i> Wikibuy. $239 and some change. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefCEEz-X7gzoM7J0BejlVQGfhzwO9hI9-ds3_n2E2hnI_LK9fM1UAVM50kCDxpnsYwLcSaNzk0TMvi5Wz_OZhcDif1pgJSQtX_3ZQn80yg1_L8GTfQpkVW-iY2ebmTzlvZFj7aS1Fb4cY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+1.19.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="1243" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefCEEz-X7gzoM7J0BejlVQGfhzwO9hI9-ds3_n2E2hnI_LK9fM1UAVM50kCDxpnsYwLcSaNzk0TMvi5Wz_OZhcDif1pgJSQtX_3ZQn80yg1_L8GTfQpkVW-iY2ebmTzlvZFj7aS1Fb4cY/s640/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+1.19.50+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Wikibuy extension will prompt you to 'try codes' and once you do, Wikibuy will test several available coupons codes and find you the best deal on what you are going to buy anyway! Here's a screenshot of Wikibuy working its magic.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglAGly-XyzxGpOdqCg2wfK44Egb6Acf9kV4NycZoOnmip-9tRCGffQDfKzzukovIcLMq14uIaQRO0KT5A7DHJPF44vFTPtjqzTqbcZFwNZzWeMY9l07Xu9IrPsxR7pZAeXf0vu_1JMMNa/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+1.20.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="1236" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglAGly-XyzxGpOdqCg2wfK44Egb6Acf9kV4NycZoOnmip-9tRCGffQDfKzzukovIcLMq14uIaQRO0KT5A7DHJPF44vFTPtjqzTqbcZFwNZzWeMY9l07Xu9IrPsxR7pZAeXf0vu_1JMMNa/s640/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+1.20.20+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And <i>*drumroll please*</i> here is my cart <b><i>after</i></b> Wikibuy. $132 and five cents. That's over $100 in savings!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_ZVA0D-Nxjn6hHgsUf-Xqnza-89jErx3TRbWOOVvT9ABy2S4DxeyKHC53teqa79lJXPzPOvlXYK4_WRjswo3P7cZPssQ3OXANJwHFc-ggy6azll7mAOKdhPNhcntFWpvL0fhoQGbOZMb/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+1.30.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1233" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_ZVA0D-Nxjn6hHgsUf-Xqnza-89jErx3TRbWOOVvT9ABy2S4DxeyKHC53teqa79lJXPzPOvlXYK4_WRjswo3P7cZPssQ3OXANJwHFc-ggy6azll7mAOKdhPNhcntFWpvL0fhoQGbOZMb/s640/Screen+Shot+2018-06-18+at+1.30.31+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sure, I probably could have Googled the same coupon codes, but let's be real, how often does one actually do that?! Plus, when I'm ready to checkout, I usually have to do it quickly before my conscience kicks in and tells me I don't need all. the. things. after all.</div>
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Wikibuy also offers shopping directly from their website and you can add a credit card to get a percentage back whenever you purchase from one of their featured brands; however, I haven't explored either option in depth yet.</div>
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Are you convinced? If you're interested in saving yourself some serious money, <b>download the Wikibuy Chrome extension --> <a href="https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/wikibuy/nenlahapcbofgnanklpelkaejcehkggg"><span style="font-size: large;">here</span></a> <-- and happy shopping!</b></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-15156505069677646802018-06-06T15:28:00.000-05:002018-06-06T15:51:35.236-05:00Blogging, Lately<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello? Is there anyone in the world who still follows blogs? Because I can't tell you the last time I read or commented on any of the beloved blogs I followed for years.<br />
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What about <b><i>this</i></b> blog? Anyone who still follows <b><i>this</i></b> blog? Is there anyone who actually misses my posts? Please comment if you do and maybe it'll give me the motivation to draft a few posts! Seriously though, leave me a comment, something as simple as "Me!" if you still consistently read blogs, read <i>my</i> blog. So what if you've never commented. Who cares if you don't know me personally. I would honestly love to know if there's anyone still out there!</div>
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Anyway, I've been noticeably absent. I've written fewer blog posts than the months of this year. I hate it that I no longer have the time or energy to record our memories. Craig recently asked me why. The answer is simple and two-fold. </div>
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First off, three kids. I absolutely adore having three kids but the energy required to care for three kids is exponentially greater than that required to care for one. Also, my kids are growing older. I find myself less excited about putting everything out there for the whole world to see. As much as I think my children might look back and appreciate the recorded memories, there's a part of me that thinks they may resent it. Like when their friends...or girlfiends...are old enough to read. What are they / their peers going to think if they stumble upon my blog? Are my boys going to appreciate being the subject of their mommy's Internet hobby? Truthfully, who knows.<br />
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But back to the growing older thing. With older ages also comes later bedtimes. I used to be guaranteed at least two full hours to myself between their bedtime and mine. Now, however, I'm lucky to get an hour. An hour is not enough to put my thoughts onto the computer screen, let alone upload, edit, and insert photos into a post, especially given my slower-than-molasses laptop these days. Besides, I'm usually too tired to do anything but scroll mindlessly on social media. (See sentence two of previous paragraph.)</div>
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Which leads me to my next point. Social media has changed. Blogging just isn't what it was five years ago. And that saddens me.</div>
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I used to really enjoy following the mommy + lifestyle blogs that were similar to my own. Whether or not I personally knew the blogger, there was something very comforting about going through the same phases of motherhood with all these other bloggers across the U.S. Blog reading was my number one hobby. It's what I did in my free time. I would check my Bloglovin' feed before any other form of social media, including Instagram. Today, I'm like "Bloglovin', what's that?" I haven't logged in for <strike>dayyyyys</strike> months. However, I've certainly scrolled through Instagram once...or ten times...already today.<br />
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Blogging has become very scripted. Never mind the authenticity of a blog post anymore. You can't just read someone's true or real-life thoughts. It's all about #sponsored posts all the time, and if not a sponsored post, you better believe the post is full of affiliate links. Everyone wants to make a buck, or be "blog famous". <i>Did that person really like that product, or were they paid to say that? </i>You can't believe what you read and won't read what you believe. Today more than ever, it's all about numbers--how many likes, how many followers, how many pageviews--and less about genuinely wanting to share.<br />
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Beyond that, Instagram seems to be the new Blogger, amiright? Required is a pretty, cohesive feed, witty captions, and eye-pleasing, yet candidly gorgeous, photos. The kind of photos that require either a professional photographer or a willing Instagram husband. Neither of which I have or want to spend the money on. And the witty captions? Can we all just agree that they're for the likes? Half the time, I don't even believe the captions to be true. </div>
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On one hand, I get it. I've certainly done my fair share of sponsored posts on this itty bitty blog. And have you seen my perfectly cohesive <a href="https://www.instagram.com/schoolinstyle/">School in Style</a> account? Part of the reason I started that account was because I enjoy clothes / fashion / shopping and posting a daily outfit photo is quicker and far easier than having to compose an entire blog post. Another reason, affiliate links! Although never my main goal, I thought that if I could make a little money to support my love of shopping, it would be worth the investment! It satisfied my need for a hobby--a creative outlet--while also being an easier replacement to traditional blogging. So I'm totally guilty of all the same things I'm sad about.<br />
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Making money via social media can be exciting, and getting free product is a definite perk. But at the same time, it's. not. everything.</div>
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I hate that it's come to this. I hate that, for me and many others, blogging has fallen to the back burner because of what blogging has become. (Ironic, right?) I hate that I no longer have the energy or the motivation to put my words and photos on the Internet. I hate that I can't go back and look at our Christmas or Halloween recaps or the boys' first day of preschool from last year. Why? Because those blog posts don't exist. Blogging was always a priority for me. An out. Therapy, if you will.<br />
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Perhaps blogging is coming to an end for me. Or maybe I'll turn a new leaf, dig deep, and find some motivation. (I wouldn't hold your breath.) Only time will tell.<br />
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So if you've wondered where I've been, there's the answer. This post has been brewing in my head for months now and it feels good to finally get it on <strike>paper</strike> the Internet.<br />
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What do you think about blogging in 2018? What has it become? Or what will it become? Do you enjoy the "influencers" of this day and age, or are you like me, and wish we could go back to the good ole days of blogging and authentically wanting to share?<br />
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Here's a photo simply because a blog post without a photo is like a bag of chips with no salsa. ๐<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0UzI5L8wz6Hpmut1S4Mth22ezouCQKS9yKywgZjddT3VJb7iKctL3WUGK9oHHOcmMnn4Wkc34oc7nUKGVEGwg6GD2Rbw_aMx6zkgdPYwQoiVPgXQMgXf-R9xaA1rDX4JUXzVqcytJ2fS/s1600/SidesMommy%2526Me-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0UzI5L8wz6Hpmut1S4Mth22ezouCQKS9yKywgZjddT3VJb7iKctL3WUGK9oHHOcmMnn4Wkc34oc7nUKGVEGwg6GD2Rbw_aMx6zkgdPYwQoiVPgXQMgXf-R9xaA1rDX4JUXzVqcytJ2fS/s640/SidesMommy%2526Me-5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-80599051882303160552018-03-10T08:06:00.000-06:002018-03-10T08:06:16.543-06:00Living to the Full at the Big 12 Tourney!<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is sponsored by Phillips 66. #partner</i></div>
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March ranks up there as one of my favorite months. Warm(ish) weather, Daylight Savings, Spring Break, St. Patty's Day. It's such a breath of fresh air after the long and dark winter. I'm even a big fan of basketball during the month of March. So when <a href="http://www.phillips66gas.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Phillips 66</a> reached out with an opportunity to attend the Big 12 tournament, and with a husband and kids who adore sports, I couldn't say no!<br />
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I loaded up the boys after school on Thursday and headed towards downtown to meet Craig, who had been there all day for "work". We made a quick stop on the way at Phillips 66 to fill up with gas using their new Mobile Pay option on the <a href="http://www.phillips66gas.com/mobile-apps" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">My Phillips 66 app</a>. It was super easy to use and the app has so many great features, like displaying the nearest Philips 66 as soon as you open it.<br />
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Once my gas tank was full, it was onward to downtown. I wasn't about to brave the traffic (and parking situation) near the Sprint Center, so I parked a ways away and we hopped on the street car! Riding the street car may have as big a highlight as the rest of the night! (Thanks to the sweet girl who took our photo while waiting for it to arrive.)<br />
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When we finally made to the Power & Light District, we met up with Daddy and visited the Phillips 66 game zone outside of the Sprint Center. To say the boys loved the games would be a huge understatement! The came away with some Phillips 66 goodies that they think is a pretty big deal!<br />
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Craig goes every year, but I had never been to the Power & Light District for the Big 12 Tournament. Not that I was surprised, but uber impressed with how this city transform in order to host such an ordeal!<br />
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We finally made our way into the game and got to see Texas Tech defeat Texas. It was the boys' first college basketball experience and though we missed seeing the Jayhawks play by a few hours (darn work schedule) but we were donning our Rock Chalk apparel anyway!</div>
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We only stayed for the first - of two - evening games and once again, enjoyed a ride on the street car en route back to our van. It's always nice to do something unconventional, especially on a weeknight, especially when it means exploring this city that we very much love!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVC5T1hKFR6sknQK7ihZMV-ePDvLvxQusu7wUjjzQkIyFuq5c79Plc-4h9keieLqFLzBcjoldkx0FLQ-w716H2iR6b-Zs3c7ZwsuuYLuJGQWWYQWOmvjmGaiLYINGcKxgSrOUjO2vCFO9e/s1600/IMG_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVC5T1hKFR6sknQK7ihZMV-ePDvLvxQusu7wUjjzQkIyFuq5c79Plc-4h9keieLqFLzBcjoldkx0FLQ-w716H2iR6b-Zs3c7ZwsuuYLuJGQWWYQWOmvjmGaiLYINGcKxgSrOUjO2vCFO9e/s640/IMG_0166.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our strategy as parents has always been to not allow our children to rule our lives or to stop us from doing the things we want, which goes right along with Phillips 66's tagline "Live to the Full." So, a huge thanks to Phillips 66 for helping us to do just that while also giving our kids this new and exciting experience!</div>
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Last thing, along with Phillips 66, I am giving away five $25 gas cards over on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgFGAsznd4F/?taken-by=sarahbsides" target="_blank">Instagram</a>! The giveaway ends tonight and right now, your chances of winning are extremely high! ๐</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-26807870610042670702018-02-15T14:37:00.000-06:002018-02-15T14:37:03.942-06:00I Dig You, Valentine!<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh hey, it's the day <i>after </i>Valentine's Day and I'm posting about the boys' Valentines. Apparently, that's how I roll these days. But because I like to share and I like to make someone else's life a little easier, I don't care! So here's a thought--you like the idea and want to use it <i><b>next year</b></i>? Go ahead and pin it to your Valentines board so you don't forget next February. ๐<br />
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Anyway, I came to the realization last Friday night that Valentine's Day was just five days away and my children had nothing yet to give to their little school friends. (Again, that's how I roll!) While I would have loved buying those cheap little cards and having the boys sign them, the crafty, control-freak in me just couldn't do that. (Maybe next year.) However, Walmart did come to the rescue with their cute, pre-made, pun-worthy Valentines.<br />
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I bought a box of 10 "I Dig You" Valentines for under $2 (that included mini shovels), threw in some conversation hearts and baggies, and designed my own printable to replace their version. Holden helped me stuff the baggies and we stapled the printout to each baggie after each boy signed his name. Looking back, I wish I would have created the printable to fold over the top of the baggie so that the contents were visible, but I didn't and it was what it was!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2EsWdQTyEG8a3kPaa7f3nAS1ldJ00NxhKP68o031L5MOy8tcME5f-mXU7uLbv3gMouCtmyU3JMrc4TIgOgehv3D6r-cIaIBW5A7G8mXo4q9X1ZyVVVebl8x3gkXKdbczkGtM4h_SqHyr4/s1600/I+Dig+You+Valentine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="576" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2EsWdQTyEG8a3kPaa7f3nAS1ldJ00NxhKP68o031L5MOy8tcME5f-mXU7uLbv3gMouCtmyU3JMrc4TIgOgehv3D6r-cIaIBW5A7G8mXo4q9X1ZyVVVebl8x3gkXKdbczkGtM4h_SqHyr4/s1600/I+Dig+You+Valentine.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>What You'll Need:</b></div>
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White cardstock </div>
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A color printer </div>
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Scissors or a paper cutter </div>
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Individual boxes of conversation hearts</div>
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Mini toy shovels*</div>
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Snack-size baggies<br />
Stapler<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Look for a box of 10 in the pre-made Valentine section at Walmart! Otherwise, maybe a dollar store.</span></div>
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<b> What You'll Do:</b></div>
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1. Download and print <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RhSq2eSUlIikdJoRcSNuow0Y5hPUNDLD/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">this </a>free printable that includes four "I Dig You" Valentines per sheet of paper.</div>
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2. Cut length-wise at the 4.25 mark (so you'll have two columns of paper, each 4.25 x 11 inches). Then cut each Valentine so it measures five inches from top to bottom. Have your child sign each Valentine.</div>
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3. Place box of conversation hearts and shovel into a small baggie. Seal baggie and staple the Valentine printout to the front.<br />
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That's it! So easy and so cute!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mTVjqN9GtxAAfWXY3k8d7T4i26HDSelxXEiK14UxdIAdJG66z9f1Xri7E8zrql_einR0AxxczvAHmY7oThsNLXSyQLrHEjsmQ16mrUD-dkM7jvHui3O8QgGl8jdRcqzGv3fYtf9yaLIy/s1600/I+Dig+You.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mTVjqN9GtxAAfWXY3k8d7T4i26HDSelxXEiK14UxdIAdJG66z9f1Xri7E8zrql_einR0AxxczvAHmY7oThsNLXSyQLrHEjsmQ16mrUD-dkM7jvHui3O8QgGl8jdRcqzGv3fYtf9yaLIy/s640/I+Dig+You.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Want some other DIY ideas? Here are our old Valentines!<br />
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<a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2017/02/valentine-you-rule.html" target="_blank">Valentine, You Rule</a><br />
Color Your Heart Out (<a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2016/02/will-you-be-my-valentine-blogger.html" target="_blank">printable</a> / <a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2015/02/diy-heart-shaped-crayons.html" target="_blank">how to</a>)<br />
<a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2014/02/all-things-valentine.html" target="_blank">You're a Great Catch</a><br />
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-71244210438964554372018-01-29T05:00:00.000-06:002018-01-29T05:00:12.206-06:00Splurge vs. Steal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's no surprise I enjoy cheap clothes. Target, Old Navy...those are my stores, my jam. And here's why. Why buy expensive when you can get a very similar item for much less money?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25iMPDhtuDDg9kbjOYUt14ZkWhmPcOZyZXfzPN5c0JNCooNc_MmmbHD-lziM_je4o6cE2EbK4vOyiI6r37Q6UROu78LEg-oiYWDhuh880a3ci3RnVX_Y_tnCi_3InPcte7dIunojFPXVz/s1600/Splurge+vs.+Steal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1374" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25iMPDhtuDDg9kbjOYUt14ZkWhmPcOZyZXfzPN5c0JNCooNc_MmmbHD-lziM_je4o6cE2EbK4vOyiI6r37Q6UROu78LEg-oiYWDhuh880a3ci3RnVX_Y_tnCi_3InPcte7dIunojFPXVz/s640/Splurge+vs.+Steal.jpg" width="548" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4uavcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($188) vs. </span><a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4ubacc7zf" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Steal</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> ($49)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4ze2cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($79) vs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cw4zducc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steal</a> ($18)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4vy4cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($78) vs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4vfucc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steal</a> ($22.97)</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">4. <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cw42qgcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($98) vs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4vrecc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steal</a> ($22)</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4vc7cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($129) vs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4vcvcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steal</a> ($32)</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6. <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4va6cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($89) vs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw4vbgcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steal</a> ($20)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">7. <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cw42uicc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($54.99) vs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cw42v6cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steal</a> ($18.99)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">8. <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cw42xfcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Splurge</a> ($68) vs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cw42x2cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steal</a> ($23.99)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(affiliate links)</span></div>
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Speaking of, I converted my School in Style from a group on Facebook to a page. If you haven't "liked" it <a href="https://www.facebook.com/schoolinstyle/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>, I'd love for you to! </div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-39986506397130098882017-12-21T05:00:00.000-06:002017-12-21T05:00:46.443-06:00Rhett's Donut-Themed First Birthday Party<div style="text-align: center;">
I have yet to blog Rhett's eight, nine, ten, eleven, and twelve month updates, but his birthday party? Now <i>that</i> I can do! Because it's way more fun to recap a cute party. Especially when the party consists of donuts and drinks at 9:00 in the morning! I'm certain our neighbors appreciated that. ๐</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7E_BKB2lJIykVHvuaiougqtgp6z7vTD6XAa7BF27plR6T90y9J955F-w5cOFcQkD5Qr_tDag52nMRYpU3ycjDJT7wpIIYKLx4vh307nyl1dlHxYLiBqywDHz7eU4JhOdXGf4GsxhZXdj/s1600/Rhett%2527s+Bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="700" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7E_BKB2lJIykVHvuaiougqtgp6z7vTD6XAa7BF27plR6T90y9J955F-w5cOFcQkD5Qr_tDag52nMRYpU3ycjDJT7wpIIYKLx4vh307nyl1dlHxYLiBqywDHz7eU4JhOdXGf4GsxhZXdj/s640/Rhett%2527s+Bday.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
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Anyway, I may have decided on a party theme (buffalo plaid) <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BNzXlZ9DHT3/?taken-by=sarahbsides" target="_blank">last December</a>, but I can assure you I didn't start planning until two weeks beforehand and most of my plans came together <i>two days</i> beforehand. My goal from the get-go was simple. Instead of making an invite, as I have typically done in the past, I bought <a href="https://www.etsy.com/transaction/1346919338" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">one</a> on Etsy. And instead of sending invites via snail mail, I imported the invite into Paperless Post and send it via email. Easy, free, and quick.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuB9lMrREVD1vRiHliVd0v4jFeclIfvqJ-IUmshboJmoYIxFrk3qKnMK5SJUhspCVNhXizRxFSP7kUv8NGGa1TenJtv1o_lpfBwELUquZAVsbFem_aNEJjc-kRqY7ztVphZcuuy9Rhs3Wz/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-12-20+at+9.04.02+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="415" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuB9lMrREVD1vRiHliVd0v4jFeclIfvqJ-IUmshboJmoYIxFrk3qKnMK5SJUhspCVNhXizRxFSP7kUv8NGGa1TenJtv1o_lpfBwELUquZAVsbFem_aNEJjc-kRqY7ztVphZcuuy9Rhs3Wz/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-12-20+at+9.04.02+PM.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
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Yes, you read that 9am start time correctly. I know, that's crazy early, but hear me out. December is such a busy time of the year and I didn't want to interrupt anyone's weekend holiday-prep plans. I wanted it over and done so people could get on with their days. And besides, I wanted to serve donuts so 9am seemed about perfect. And you know, because we're "cool parents", we also served Bloody Marys, mimosas, and coffee with Bailey's. Because let's be honest. First birthday parties aren't <i>that</i> fun. Alcohol is generally appreciated.<br />
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I ordered the O N E <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/air+filled+gold+letter+o+balloon.do?sortby=ourPicks&navSet=568681" target="_blank">balloons</a> and <a href="http://www.partycity.com/search.do?query=buffalo+plaid" target="_blank">buffalo plaid party supplies</a> from Party City, made the monthly-photo banner, and borrowed all of the tree stumps from <a href="http://sunflowerstateofmind.com/" target="_blank">Vanessa</a>. The cake was from Price Chopper, a local grocery store, and I added the burlap banner to the top myself. Donuts (including the ones that spelled HAPPY BIRTHDAY RHETT) were from Daylight Donuts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaf9ombfS3SJg2IIuCCRrYEGyGrOPvVCD2V1x2JGI6sdN-cwgKx7ss2S5VCF41vzw8wGstfsooDBq6DJDtRoCvGnHu_K7kEwFpdIzdk72y0SGxH7EN23_HafxCqX67Nv4M1rmNL7oDOow/s1600/IMG_3446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaf9ombfS3SJg2IIuCCRrYEGyGrOPvVCD2V1x2JGI6sdN-cwgKx7ss2S5VCF41vzw8wGstfsooDBq6DJDtRoCvGnHu_K7kEwFpdIzdk72y0SGxH7EN23_HafxCqX67Nv4M1rmNL7oDOow/s640/IMG_3446.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1RJAMYMxZsRguVOP1GaP5H_Ka9wZN05ohyphenhyphenYkIAXCgtJpq3zAo9zuo6CyR47QM8u-PZbtcr_YqN2V1smkrNZ5_ORISGG5vReSxU2h0BQJWVxkughWPu6FoIJyamjg8394P6yluN4qZo7D/s1600/IMG_3444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1RJAMYMxZsRguVOP1GaP5H_Ka9wZN05ohyphenhyphenYkIAXCgtJpq3zAo9zuo6CyR47QM8u-PZbtcr_YqN2V1smkrNZ5_ORISGG5vReSxU2h0BQJWVxkughWPu6FoIJyamjg8394P6yluN4qZo7D/s640/IMG_3444.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The details of a party are always my favorite part and they definitely didn't disappoint!<br />
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And yes, I bought a shirt to match the party theme. Because when it's your third and final baby's first birthday, that's just what you do!<br />
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Rhett's gift from us was his PB chair. He has no idea that it spells his name, but somehow he knew right away it was his.<br />
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I couldn't tell you what anyone else got him because opening gifts with an uninterested 1-year old and about eight interested 3-5 year olds is very stressful. (And oh look--the party guests matched the theme!)</div>
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Next and final birthday activity - the smash cake. He loved it, if you can't tell by the next series of photos.<br />
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Despite "ending" at 10:30, our neighbors stuck around until after noon. It was a perfect, perfect morning celebrating our baby and exactly what I had envisioned for his donut-serving, buffalo-plaid themed first birthday party.<br />
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Happy birthday, Rhetti Pie!</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-40148596650731162492017-12-20T05:00:00.000-06:002017-12-20T13:17:10.097-06:00Six Last Minute Gift Ideas Under $30<div style="text-align: center;">
I did a similar post last year and it was way popular! So here I go again - six last minute (ahem, Amazon Prime) gift ideas for under $30!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MPRCB9t68RykDQM30B3C87MMn-N-BBM97HjdsYpeMuMbYsg0urdTkLQO6q9UuoO-z4L-eh86n0nd65m8G_515urzq9l6b7hJLyPFt-Ug9AMMSQrOoSBPx-iceN8N_gWwmIlOq5gnHSJc/s1600/Last+Minute+Gift+Ideas.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MPRCB9t68RykDQM30B3C87MMn-N-BBM97HjdsYpeMuMbYsg0urdTkLQO6q9UuoO-z4L-eh86n0nd65m8G_515urzq9l6b7hJLyPFt-Ug9AMMSQrOoSBPx-iceN8N_gWwmIlOq5gnHSJc/s640/Last+Minute+Gift+Ideas.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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(affiliate links)<br />
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1 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017NGOR16/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B017NGOR16&linkId=ba8b5d78c036b40e4342cecd7dc1f8a1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Plaid Blanket Scarf</a> // 2 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01I7UZFOK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01I7UZFOK&linkId=64b179f199e99e95036a63ce56b5fbd2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wooden Ring Toss Game</a> // 3 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LBUG9CK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LBUG9CK&linkId=81309eb0c3a17082e5f993c88194c9e3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bring Me Some Wine Socks</a> // 4 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MRG7T0D/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01MRG7T0D&linkId=da7c4f512289ce098dd529809b700883" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">What Do You Meme Party Game</a> // 5 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015TJD0Y4/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B015TJD0Y4&linkId=4a866e60edfecb42b0f0cc4cb7b7126b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon Echo Dot</a> // 6 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073SXJC6Z/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B073SXJC6Z&linkId=c538009610e1317a178660764bb4253d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Knit Cardigan</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvy6wzpp7qglhTbVnB98e4HwX9bRE-ruIZxfSDDIZwkeHwfXrgtG2JwpmPqIE3nj-oiLyWxodro1mYlVf59h7iUtkfLiJbfNwOGLbLhrhalrAbCkqZJRF_tN5_RlYiIGJd2kzF223NwnE/s1600/scarf.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="248" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvy6wzpp7qglhTbVnB98e4HwX9bRE-ruIZxfSDDIZwkeHwfXrgtG2JwpmPqIE3nj-oiLyWxodro1mYlVf59h7iUtkfLiJbfNwOGLbLhrhalrAbCkqZJRF_tN5_RlYiIGJd2kzF223NwnE/s400/scarf.JPG" width="198" /></a></div>
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It's a blanket. It's a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017NGOR16/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B017NGOR16&linkId=ba8b5d78c036b40e4342cecd7dc1f8a1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">scarf</a> ($17.69). And who couldn't use yet another of either?! (Lots of color options available!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNzW8empSD3AWIXVqU7O9aUquFdVu4VKOjxn45mnPuBfw1nRLWYUy5M3aIibKq713v0TC_WUPq9wqa1KCfTUVUPP2ZD0qi5VtCo6skrCIbsEEYd1u_61rO5Bf91THV8cHtfotJbTVIAGhY/s1600/81GnTAwm%252BOL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNzW8empSD3AWIXVqU7O9aUquFdVu4VKOjxn45mnPuBfw1nRLWYUy5M3aIibKq713v0TC_WUPq9wqa1KCfTUVUPP2ZD0qi5VtCo6skrCIbsEEYd1u_61rO5Bf91THV8cHtfotJbTVIAGhY/s320/81GnTAwm%252BOL._SL1500_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I credit my husband for finding this cute <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01I7UZFOK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01I7UZFOK&linkId=64b179f199e99e95036a63ce56b5fbd2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wooden ring toss game</a> ($29.99). It could work in a basement, in a garage, or on a patio <i>and </i>would be a good gift for a guy <i>or </i>girl!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNI4ksLNtf4kv9dnl2G7EPLbSUzbdhBmJP6Co6ntxCDTr1G-b69OYVgf3VRSEsNo4gNOYC5pOiZ1ElxMoY6_zbQliRLNLjzLfqPlOx0OCb7lIJJJE6Bc_xWoyN7o670heuOGPAI7z6vxg/s1600/socks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="338" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNI4ksLNtf4kv9dnl2G7EPLbSUzbdhBmJP6Co6ntxCDTr1G-b69OYVgf3VRSEsNo4gNOYC5pOiZ1ElxMoY6_zbQliRLNLjzLfqPlOx0OCb7lIJJJE6Bc_xWoyN7o670heuOGPAI7z6vxg/s320/socks.JPG" width="312" /></a></div>
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I know a few people who would love <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LBUG9CK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LBUG9CK&linkId=81309eb0c3a17082e5f993c88194c9e3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these socks</a> ($12.95)!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7LAqx0xOe9zGvdKRN5wnguohEJbfqaqibYDhs6QKETjnwUUClF2FZkAmnUXcghJEWfyhL4SWEJbsYurbFRbEW5DA6A6jSUSbWI0KF8lzJ4Y49B6O0hs-fcaw4XQ_58ghMYRxAczm9Klp/s1600/512D59lXpqL._SL1022_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1022" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7LAqx0xOe9zGvdKRN5wnguohEJbfqaqibYDhs6QKETjnwUUClF2FZkAmnUXcghJEWfyhL4SWEJbsYurbFRbEW5DA6A6jSUSbWI0KF8lzJ4Y49B6O0hs-fcaw4XQ_58ghMYRxAczm9Klp/s320/512D59lXpqL._SL1022_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This appears to be a super fun <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MRG7T0D/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01MRG7T0D&linkId=da7c4f512289ce098dd529809b700883" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">party game</a> ($29.99). I'm definitely adding it to my wishlist!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkeWJFXk-IVvP1Q6271DXJZGgx1ki5xWrXbk6xIu0Iwlu-vQa7cLOfyggUzcKaJp2HblOYUOXlZDtJY9LSGhJqYDKufVp6HRT451piI9plEyZGzH0iymOdDAo6bA5EAN4KH5rQ5H4Efwq/s1600/Echo+dot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkeWJFXk-IVvP1Q6271DXJZGgx1ki5xWrXbk6xIu0Iwlu-vQa7cLOfyggUzcKaJp2HblOYUOXlZDtJY9LSGhJqYDKufVp6HRT451piI9plEyZGzH0iymOdDAo6bA5EAN4KH5rQ5H4Efwq/s320/Echo+dot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The possibilities are endless with an <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015TJD0Y4/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B015TJD0Y4&linkId=4a866e60edfecb42b0f0cc4cb7b7126b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon Dot</a> ($29.99). You can play music, add to your shopping list, heck, ours even turns on and off our living room lamp (with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KBFWW0O/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01KBFWW0O&linkId=01f8860fcfc5b4681fa2bed200a188d7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wifi-enabled smart plug</a> anyway). As silly as I once thought these were, I'm sort of loving ours! But hurry--it's only this price for a limited time!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFsWetCNwM9MtOyGIH1B0B0ONRgA-dm7x6_FeO8fWKOl_KEGpZVprUDXwfxXezQ7Rt763Z_1uyfNMPIZhvUVOuHCIih91yGA2QXGRHVaMd89Ck080Wq1GIMQmJbI9xNXcfo_cw-4naxZMo/s1600/cardi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="230" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFsWetCNwM9MtOyGIH1B0B0ONRgA-dm7x6_FeO8fWKOl_KEGpZVprUDXwfxXezQ7Rt763Z_1uyfNMPIZhvUVOuHCIih91yGA2QXGRHVaMd89Ck080Wq1GIMQmJbI9xNXcfo_cw-4naxZMo/s320/cardi.JPG" width="143" /></a></div>
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And finally, this long, open-front knit <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073SXJC6Z/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B073SXJC6Z&linkId=c538009610e1317a178660764bb4253d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cardigan</a> ($31.99). And I lied. It's technically over $30...but only by $2. Looks so cozy and appears to get good reviews!</div>
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Happy last-minute shopping!<br />
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(For last year's post, click <a href="http://www.seeingallsides.com/2016/12/5-last-minute-gift-ideas-under-50-most.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-25023679441842493462017-12-19T06:00:00.000-06:002017-12-19T08:18:46.478-06:00Our Family Photos<div style="text-align: center;">
We had these family photos taken at the very end of September. Surprisingly, they went better than I imaged them going, aside from Holden's weird smile. They are not perfect, but as perfect as we're going to get at this stage of life with a 5, a 3, and a (then) 10-month old.</div>
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Photos by <a href="http://www.maylynphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Maylyn Photograhy</a>.</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-108051085847053172017-12-18T05:00:00.000-06:002017-12-18T09:02:38.861-06:00Gifting with Mpix<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is sponsored by Mpix, but sponsored or not, Mpix is my most favorite place ever to order photo prints and enlargements. </i></div>
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You guys. Christmas is in one week. One. Week.</div>
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Since we typically do family photos every fall, I use Christmastime as an opportunity to give grandparents and great-grandparents updated versions of our photos. For years now, I have ordered said photos from <a href="https://www.mpix.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mpix</a>. From 4x6s to 11x14s, the quality is top notch and the shipping is fast. Like freaky fast. I usually place my order and receive my order within a day of each other. I've also known several professional photographers who recommend Mpix for prints, which speaks volumes. </div>
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Kansas people: they are also local - based out of Pittsburg, Kansas - which could play a part in the speedy delivery (I can't promise yours will be quite that fast) and I love to order knowing I'm supporting a Kansas company.</div>
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This year, in addition to our prints and enlargements, I decided to surprise Craig with a modern metal print for his office. And for fun, I threw in some photo magnets. Because who doesn't want to stare at yourself every time you grab something from the refrigerator. ๐ Both turned out beyond adorable. The magnets are crisp and cute, and the metal is just gorgeous.<br />
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Mpix also has a huge selection of <a href="https://www.mpix.com/products/funstuff" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">photo gifts</a>, <a href="https://www.mpix.com/products/photobooks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">books</a>, and <a href="https://www.mpix.com/products/homedecor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wall art</a>.<br />
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And a great <a href="https://www.mpix.com/rewards-program" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rewards program</a>. Earn points for every order, every social media share, and every product review and redeem those points for rewards like discounts and special offers on products. Right now, you can get $10 off your first order of $25 by <a href="https://www.mpix.com/rewards-program" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">signing up</a>!<br />
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So whether it's for Christmas or not, I highly recommend checking out Mpix for all of your photo needs!<br />
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(Photos by Maylyn Photography)</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-37240017621551575792017-12-17T06:00:00.000-06:002017-12-17T06:01:15.845-06:00My Christmas Wishlist<div style="text-align: center;">
Apparently this is the year of earrings, baseball caps, and sweatshirts--as sixty-plus percent of my wishlist falls into one of those three categories! At any rate, seeing that no one buys me gifts except for my mom and we've already done Christmas with my parents, this list can double as my birthday list. Which is exactly three weeks after Christmas. **Hint hint hubby** (Craig and I don't do gifts at Christmastime; only stocking.)</div>
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(some affiliate links)</div>
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1 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073ZHDQTL/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B073ZHDQTL&linkId=985abfe92f0f62b39f453dd129a4151f" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wine Cup with Lid in Rose Gold</a> // 2 <a href="http://www.nickelandsuede.com/gray-mosaic-leather-earrings/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">N&S Gray Mosaic Leather Earrings</a> // 3 <a href="http://www.nickelandsuede.com/camel-suede-leather-earrings/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">N&S Camel Suede Leather Earrings</a> // 4 <a href="https://www.charliehustleshop.com/products/arrowhead-stadium-crewneck?variant=44088510917" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Charlie Hustle Arrowhead Sweatshirt</a> // 5 <a href="https://kc.clothing/collections/kns-cty/products/kns-cty-unisex-sweatshirt-grey-white?variant=181207564302" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gray + White KNS CTY Sweatshirt</a> // 6 <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cvtr9scc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lauren Leather Hobo Wallet</a> // 7 <a href="http://www.1kcshop.com/store/p85/1KC_DARLIN%27_CREW.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">KC Darlin' Sweatshirt</a> // 8 <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cvtsbfcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Camel Suede Shoes</a> (to match my earrings, of course) // 9 <a href="http://rstyle.me/~adAKJ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Magnolia Wreath</a> // 10 <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cvtr5xcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Leather Spanx Leggings</a> // 11 <a href="https://www.charliehustleshop.com/products/how-bout-them-hawks-gold?variant=20354641861" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Charlie Hustle How 'Bout Them Hawks Tee</a> // 12 <a href="https://www.sportingup.com/products/iowa-hawkeyes-zephyr-charcoal-gray-anf-america-needs-farmers-strapback-hat-cap?gdffi=0eab584441b746a7bb342e31d26b5bf4&gdfms=27FC446EC2C943048016BDD910F26B29&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&adpos=1o12&scid=scplpS171019011021&sc_intid=S171019011021&gclid=Cj0KCQjwm9vPBRCQARIsABAIQYcmN_eybGf-FJu2vVCfz-2jvTruR4qL_svTW72Ko9f08mzpR-VWJogaAucjEALw_wcB&variant=46312560338" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ANF Iowa Hat</a> // 13 <a href="https://www.helloapparelstore.com/collections/adults/products/hello-adult-champ-pullovers?variant=29674870019" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hello Apparel Sweatshirt</a> // 14 <a href="https://mikcmarket.com/snapback-kc-denim.html?category_id=39" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kansas City Local</a> Hat // 15 <a href="https://eightwineten.com/collections/hats/products/wine-and-country-music-trucker-cap?variant=1421920305179" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I Love Wine & Country Music Hat</a> // 16 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017M7O5UE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B017M7O5UE&linkId=1dfb4a5c9f9a6581c04951f403ff1914" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gold Diffuser</a></div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-65677684774068931842017-12-16T06:00:00.000-06:002017-12-16T06:00:09.186-06:00Rhett's Christmas Wishlist<div style="text-align: center;">
You know how hard it is to come up with gift ideas for a one-year old with two older brothers who have <i>everything</i>?! Pretty dang hard. It's even difficult to find toddler books we don't already have! I rounded up a few ideas, but sadly, Rhett will be receiving fewer gifts than his brothers.</div>
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1 <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cvtibvcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pottery Barn Kids Luggage</a> // 2 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XXSLRBR/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B06XXSLRBR&linkId=2f91feae8575ded182d2dd074353b80f" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Camo outfit on Amazon</a> // 3 <a href="https://smilingtreetoys.com/collections/toys/products/wooden-name-puzzle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Name Puzzle</a> // 4 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374360979/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0374360979&linkId=fd054b0597085b62d024ad6e497110a8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Pout Pout Fish Book</a> // 5 <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cvtievcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Moccasins </a>// 6 <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cvtnmrcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Anything Cat & Jack</a> // 7 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FFOZ3FC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01FFOZ3FC&linkId=1ead785fd89794ffbf8f5ab696a89e20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ball Pit</a> // 8 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IL7IFP6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00IL7IFP6&linkId=1bafff6a52fdf3f94d8ca3315b04d590" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Green Toys Train</a></div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-42058770655494277592017-12-15T09:38:00.000-06:002017-12-15T09:41:43.084-06:00Gift Guide for 3 to 6 Year Old Boys<div style="text-align: center;">
Also known as Brantley + Holden's 2017 wishlist. Rather, the list Mom created because when asked, those same kids said they wanted, and I quote, rainbow shoes, a mario yo-yo (Amazon actually came through on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JK83RC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B006JK83RC&linkId=48e0dc6b7b3b918530f32a4ac08bad66" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">that one</a>), ski ball, and a Mario & Luigi soccer ball <i>with </i>a Jayhawk on it. Huh!? Where do they even come up with this stuff? (Besides YouTube, of course.)</div>
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Anyway, if you're frantically trying to finish your shopping and you have a 3 to 6-year old boy to buy for, here are some ideas. I'm about all gifting things that are a) educational b) quiet or c) something the entire family can do. Heaven knows we don't need yet another cheap toy cluttering our floors!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3JuST0dqDZH6goiFDt497W2yHfhHMn8vjLFwDtDhXk90nlseegb5DvyHy4wyKO_c6mw3TYVkhvwY8ps8soMjrmZuQtU094vZK4DPK9B853lNA0wG_7eyoYJcDEH10hNB3sIsyCwrE0JZ/s1600/B%252BH+Wishlist.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3JuST0dqDZH6goiFDt497W2yHfhHMn8vjLFwDtDhXk90nlseegb5DvyHy4wyKO_c6mw3TYVkhvwY8ps8soMjrmZuQtU094vZK4DPK9B853lNA0wG_7eyoYJcDEH10hNB3sIsyCwrE0JZ/s1600/B%252BH+Wishlist.png" /></a></div>
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(affiliate links)<br />
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1 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UPAYY5C/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00UPAYY5C&linkId=442777fc36c003de9849566682b8bad4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yeti in my Spaghetti Game</a> // 2 <a href="https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/product/productDet.jsp?productItemID=1%2C689%2C949%2C371%2C930%2C473&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181113&bmUID=1513351357221" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lakeshore Learning Magnetic Dartboard</a> // 3 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00146K0KE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00146K0KE&linkId=c65532fa06ffae354dfc603b39da3568" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Melissa & Doug Jumbo Coloring Pad</a> // 4 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RWNEN9W/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00RWNEN9W&linkId=9bd9018b207a079383e59f8bc59a2548" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lincoln Logs</a> // 5 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007WDU1GG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B007WDU1GG&linkId=46b7fefe39f57d60ac92ad17aa0e0bfe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Melissa & Doug Smarty Pants Card Set: Brain-Building Questions, Puzzles, & Games</a> // 6 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FZMOUQM/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01FZMOUQM&linkId=6b66e0738f694ac336457aa4da878db9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Boogie Board</a> // 7 <a href="https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/product/productDet.jsp?productItemID=1%2C689%2C949%2C371%2C930%2C514&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181113&bmUID=1513351405066" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lakeshore Learning Clap & Laugh Microphone</a> // 8 <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cvte52cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cat & Jack Loafer Slippers</a> // 9 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01D11ZOAK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01D11ZOAK&linkId=5d2c4ba1e52bb1eb94599d57575150ed" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">VTech Kidizoom Camera</a> // 10 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FZE7WOI/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00FZE7WOI&linkId=05f8864cab8cfe7488c9d8dca12b1fe0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tegu Magnetic Wooden Blocks</a> // 11 <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cvte4vcc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Under Armour Socks</a> // 12 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0164WC4RY/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0164WC4RY&linkId=7bb0987ffe03d214b4c83018da28e97b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ETI Building Blocks</a> // 13 <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/cvte36cc7zf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jayhawk Hoodie</a> // 14 <a href="https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/product/productDet.jsp?productItemID=1%2C689%2C949%2C371%2C929%2C324&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181113&bmUID=1513351438887" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lakeshore Learning Touch & Learn USA Map</a> // 15 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071FN6KXK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B071FN6KXK&linkId=4a77e54df0fa0d1b9ca8b39f4b8cde33" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Osmo Genius Kit</a> // 16 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0525428887/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=seeallsid-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0525428887&linkId=3a19b917ebb8afa0367c31b5b5246f56" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dragons Love Tacos 2</a><br />
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-81785895717413621282017-12-07T06:00:00.000-06:002017-12-07T09:38:38.306-06:002017 Christmas Cards with Shutterfly<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is sponsored by Shutterfly.</i><br />
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Between Amazon packages and Christmas cards, checking the mail during the month of December is quite the treat! I just love seeing our friends' and families' faces splattered across the fronts and backs of Christmas cards. I also <i>obsess</i> over designing our own cards. I don't know why. The average person probably glances at our card and throws it in a pile with all the rest. But it's still a decision I sit on for <strike>hours</strike> days before finally pulling the trigger.<br />
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(Side note: I punch a hole in the cards we receive, add a binder ring, and make them into books with our own card as the cover. We have a book for every year since 2009 - the first year Craig and I sent cards, as a newly engaged couple I might add. Anyone else do this?)<br />
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This year, I ordered our cards from <a href="https://www.shutterfly.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shutterfly</a>. Since I've used Tiny Prints the last couple of years and they were recently acquired by Shutterfly, it was a no brainer. And I'm certain I say this every year, but our 2017 cards may be my most favorite one yet!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkytdwSsDhO1m_33YRmrpBJ1uSbCUsd3d_sbG_BDeoBIp2j04ZfpNklORdH8E4-3wF_4xYmLzMPBcwAH1NDhlokujgM7BcJxnnw-imLL-6MA9HGGO2met9mw3CJc-RELPuaLbgR2a7MtN/s1600/Photo+Dec+03%252C+2+02+18+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkytdwSsDhO1m_33YRmrpBJ1uSbCUsd3d_sbG_BDeoBIp2j04ZfpNklORdH8E4-3wF_4xYmLzMPBcwAH1NDhlokujgM7BcJxnnw-imLL-6MA9HGGO2met9mw3CJc-RELPuaLbgR2a7MtN/s640/Photo+Dec+03%252C+2+02+18+PM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSa6GIfP3rPiqi2yorNf1XKuKCqxx_rhIRwxOvAIwglsO55oF2AUBN1yDtpCukbwssybIMn7vUcC6r0-ag_N3JcSQauWxpCR6PtkpLHqaCTn-TFB6PfeZfohL3rRQ9Bv4oV6hSUVxEhRk/s1600/IMG_3620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSa6GIfP3rPiqi2yorNf1XKuKCqxx_rhIRwxOvAIwglsO55oF2AUBN1yDtpCukbwssybIMn7vUcC6r0-ag_N3JcSQauWxpCR6PtkpLHqaCTn-TFB6PfeZfohL3rRQ9Bv4oV6hSUVxEhRk/s640/IMG_3620.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I just love the quality of these. The thick cardstock. The customization options. <i>The glitter! ๐ </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggynAYUQJ8hc4GneWJAG5EHM1mhEgkf8ylv5wG2xjOYcrjHw_jzGqRv8yjfwL8Y6BuVK1h_9q4am6i809sEgsg4syErtdMlRKvalkReFbT4tfcN_ZDo6BqwV9Y8sOMw1F5Du4Ge-7F6hjR/s1600/IMG_3618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggynAYUQJ8hc4GneWJAG5EHM1mhEgkf8ylv5wG2xjOYcrjHw_jzGqRv8yjfwL8Y6BuVK1h_9q4am6i809sEgsg4syErtdMlRKvalkReFbT4tfcN_ZDo6BqwV9Y8sOMw1F5Du4Ge-7F6hjR/s640/IMG_3618.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Not to mention, the ease of designing them. They have a favorite (heart) option, which makes narrowing down a design a liiiiiiittle easier, although still difficult with all of their gorgeous designs! (See above comment about it taking me days.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwp_u0akDQ2_BE9Lw75_299sQG6nqWilUIyl_7niwowrQ0dyP1v6S0p0iDTA2GVFxufAmv9fBPhvBz7LpUcac0kCNmZuklf7tAoF3Udza5RQI7zxfBg-GXRzQG_jyZanR9_TxwrC2gQNH5/s1600/myfavorites.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="1258" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwp_u0akDQ2_BE9Lw75_299sQG6nqWilUIyl_7niwowrQ0dyP1v6S0p0iDTA2GVFxufAmv9fBPhvBz7LpUcac0kCNmZuklf7tAoF3Udza5RQI7zxfBg-GXRzQG_jyZanR9_TxwrC2gQNH5/s640/myfavorites.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Shutterfly also includes the option of adding your own photo to every design. Which is basically genius and a huge time saver!! <br />
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Here's how you do it...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBV-Zc0FrrGLQHkPbKe-PPuZfcmiMuQoNZHqbtx3FEEoLGM2wPBTW6I5L5Rsz3E06ZKWc7I7Y34Fr0y1rgxIGphn85t82enBzw8djhP6_-nbdc87Ce0Tzvt7rv-DoFa2mSgjFdDODcAUf/s1600/showwithmyphoto_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="1311" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBV-Zc0FrrGLQHkPbKe-PPuZfcmiMuQoNZHqbtx3FEEoLGM2wPBTW6I5L5Rsz3E06ZKWc7I7Y34Fr0y1rgxIGphn85t82enBzw8djhP6_-nbdc87Ce0Tzvt7rv-DoFa2mSgjFdDODcAUf/s640/showwithmyphoto_.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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...and here's an example using our photo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfrZSZbKCu4Gc91_pL_q59M__fLqx8XvB1YCIbU_yIR2hir7Vovy0yziP1TOzgUwXozDYMRsFc8WM5OLBvaRJppAD8tabZU04zf8Q30S-Iu_UTYsMfCp8ixt5VKg_gSCJDtm6gQb6QnwX/s1600/myphotos.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="1082" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfrZSZbKCu4Gc91_pL_q59M__fLqx8XvB1YCIbU_yIR2hir7Vovy0yziP1TOzgUwXozDYMRsFc8WM5OLBvaRJppAD8tabZU04zf8Q30S-Iu_UTYsMfCp8ixt5VKg_gSCJDtm6gQb6QnwX/s640/myphotos.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I debated whether or not to share our full card on here so soon (after all, it's <i>only</i> December 7, people, and these have yet to hit the mail), but given my track record with blogging lately, it may be May before I get to it.<br />
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So here you go.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VUFCp7cUArF4PH760FK4kg9pO47fYJDAwTidHX8zMhgXusJ4Zk7QuDXDsb6eSLHx_xIJr7LLwHcLuQfbKSlph_iOCOnVrwOzDM7rhSQF6qXmQTo5IwMV09Qbj8bRplyVQ-YzbABvD0C-/s1600/IMG_3603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VUFCp7cUArF4PH760FK4kg9pO47fYJDAwTidHX8zMhgXusJ4Zk7QuDXDsb6eSLHx_xIJr7LLwHcLuQfbKSlph_iOCOnVrwOzDM7rhSQF6qXmQTo5IwMV09Qbj8bRplyVQ-YzbABvD0C-/s640/IMG_3603.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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The front anyhow. I'll save the back for later.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3BZ86RMKQYiKRLWafuO44zpAfIWCo4Ef8bvb2BnP3MuiPsmTaP-N8RktTb55qpy_YkquMcvjHfg8fMT9fCXDop3zMuB-bvq10AqjjR-LLJEIvo_1gZRe88HLPr3gaiq_10lvYfAPc8J5/s1600/Photo+Dec+03%252C+2+09+59+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3BZ86RMKQYiKRLWafuO44zpAfIWCo4Ef8bvb2BnP3MuiPsmTaP-N8RktTb55qpy_YkquMcvjHfg8fMT9fCXDop3zMuB-bvq10AqjjR-LLJEIvo_1gZRe88HLPr3gaiq_10lvYfAPc8J5/s640/Photo+Dec+03%252C+2+09+59+PM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you're lucky enough to be a recipient of the Sides' family Christmas card, give me another week. Life has been cray lately and the stack of cards (all 130 of them) still currently sit on our new dining room table. Unstuffed. Un-stamped. And unsealed. Thank goodness for Shutterfly's addressing options (recipientโ , returnโ )!! It may take a bit of time up front to input all. the. addresses, but I can't tell you how happy it makes me to already have both sets printed on the envelopes! (Bonus: You can store the addresses for future use so next year should be easy-peasy.)<br />
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If you're still in the market for Christmas cards, good news! Shutterfly is offering 50% off premium holiday cards with the code <b>ENCORE</b>. But hurry because this amazing deal ends this Saturday, December 9!<br />
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Huge thanks to Shutterfly for our gorgeous 2017 Christmas cards!</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-74575501392163635552017-12-05T05:00:00.000-06:002017-12-05T05:00:14.132-06:00First Day of School 2017<div style="text-align: center;">
It's Throwback Tuesday, right? Because I'm throwing it way back to August and the boys' first day of school! I'm bound and determined to catch up on this ole blog of mine...just for you Aunt Debi! ;)</div>
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Anyway, not only was it the boys' first day of school, but their first day at an all new full-time preschool. <i>A lot </i>closer to our house. We knew Brantley would do great. He was enrolled with three of his best neighbor buddies and generally does pretty well in new situations. Holden, on the other hand, is the exact opposite. He hates new situations, hates strangers, and hates being away from his all things familiar (i.e. Mommy or Daddy). I <strike>dreaded his</strike> prepped him for first day for weeeeeeks, even bribing him with a new toy if he made it through the day sans tears.</div>
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Let's just say, he didn't get a toy that day. Or the next. Or the next. In fact, it was a good two weeks before he finally made it through the day without crying.</div>
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It didn't help that the first day was dark and stormy. I waited and waited for the rain clouds to pass before finally snapping their photos in a light drizzle. As a result, I was late for work (my first day as well) and the thunder during photos didn't do us any favors. They are both are terrified of thunder. </div>
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But the good news is, things finally got better and though Holden is still super shy around his teachers, he actually enjoys preschool.</div>
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Here are our first day photos. 3.5 months later.</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-10197116440716025482017-12-04T06:00:00.000-06:002017-12-04T06:00:16.326-06:00My Mompreneur Friends<div style="text-align: center;">
Hi, friends! It's been awhile, but I wanted to pop in today to share with you not one, but <b><i>three</i></b> of my neighbor friends and their latest ventures. I've said it before, but moving into this neighborhood has been the biggest blessing. Craig has a solid group of guy friends, I have my mom tribe, and the boys have umpteen friends within a stone's throw of our backyard. I remember crying and crying about leaving our old house, <i>our first house</i>, but now I look back and realize that God had a plan for us and it was better than anything I could have ever imagined. I am grateful every day for this neighborhood, these friends, and this life we live. Anyway, enough of the sappiness, on to the reason for my post.</div>
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Three of my neighbor friends have recently taken on new roles. They are mamas first, but each has recently taken a leap of faith and created a business invovling something they love...mompreneurs, if you will! Today I want to share with you their three businesses!</div>
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<b>A Seasoned Pot.</b></div>
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Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aseasonedpot/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/a_seasoned_pot/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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First up, my friend Ali. She adores all things gardening. She probably knew more about plants at age ten than I do at 34. She has been our go-to girl for landscaping advice these past two summers. Her business, <i>A Seasoned Pot</i>, is focused on container designs--meaning she will take your planter and turn it into a beautiful, seasonal arrangement of plants. That's always my problem. I don't know how to mix plants of varying kinds, sizes, colors, etc. and make them look good. But Ali is amazing at doing just that and I am in awe of every single planter she puts together. She also makes a killer eucalyptus wreath. And because it's real eucalyptus, the smell is to die for! Here are the holiday planters she created for us, as well as her eucalyptus holiday wreath.</div>
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If you are local and interested in a planter, do yourself a favor and contact her. And if you're not local, she is willing and able to ship you a wreath! Please contact her for details!</div>
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<b>KP Designs.</b></div>
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Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KPInteriorDesigns/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kpinteriordesigns/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Blog <a href="https://www.kpinteriordesigns.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Next is my friend, Kristen. Like myself, Kristen is a high school teacher, though she teaches classes way more fun than mine (think fashion, interior design, things of that sort). And soon, Kristen will begin working for a local mom who recently landed her own <a href="http://www.kansascity.com/living/home-garden/article171746322.html" target="_blank">DIY Network t.v. show</a>. Cool, huh? Anyway, Kristen's side gig, KP Designs, is an interior decorating business created to help you plan, visualize, and create the space of your dreams. I can vouch that Kristen's home is decorated beautifully and I often joke that I want her to come decorate my house. So whether you want someone to help you spruce up your decor (from near or far) or maybe you just like to follow pretty accounts on Instagram, go check her out today!</div>
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<b>Sunflower Steals.</b></div>
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Facebook group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/sunflowersteals/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sunflowersteals/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Blog <a href="http://sunflowerstateofmind.com/category/sunflowersteals/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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And finally, my friend Vanessa. Chances are, you and your best friend are already a part of Sunflower Steals because Vanessa grew her little business from zero to a million (not quite, but close) followers, like, overnight. That's how great this group is! Vanessa posts all sorts of amazing deals - kids toys, women's clothing, home decor, even discount codes to use at your favorite stores! She also hosts pretty sweet giveaways that you definitely don't want to miss! And her kids make frequent appearances in the photos and they are adorable. Reason enough to follow along, right?! So, if somehow, you're not a part of this group already, please click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/sunflowersteals/" target="_blank">here</a> and join! I promise, you won't regret it. (Well, your bank account might....)</div>
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That's it for today! I'm going to try to up my blogging game because I've got Christmas cards to share, a first birthday party to recap, and first day of school photos to post. ๐ Happy Monday!</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-73931158919907197712017-10-18T06:00:00.000-05:002017-10-18T06:00:00.219-05:00The Daily Dime / / October 2017<div style="text-align: center;">
How in the world is it this time again so soon?! I feel like I just documented one of these days yesterday!! Anyway, welcome to another edition of <b>The Daily Dime</b>! Remember all you have to do is post ten photos from a day in your life - they can include as much or as little explanation as you'd like - and then link up below!<br />
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Date: Tuesday, October 17, 2017</div>
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Brantley is 5 years + 3 months.</div>
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Holden is 3 years + 6 months.</div>
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Rhett is 10.5 months old.<br />
I realized at the end of the day that my ten photos are crazy similar to last month's! And once again, Craig is out of town for work. (I'm joining him on Thursday!)</div>
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All photos were taken with my iPhone 8 Plus (yay a new phone!).<br />
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The drive on my way to work after dropped off the boys at daycare and preschool. I just love these early morning sunrises in Kansas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1T5oDdWu1oz3vHMwGvvilOC0UGLvs9kDZe1aP9H5q4qW9hmhZprZB_3z3K3283lyPmUUX0PsfwgR8_7StrbkqbiB9rX-Hbqd_u3VpBu5PiySzIvYCCYn4nnasaBmS8dusM7HrXY9y6DhV/s1600/Photo+Oct+17%252C+7+19+05+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1T5oDdWu1oz3vHMwGvvilOC0UGLvs9kDZe1aP9H5q4qW9hmhZprZB_3z3K3283lyPmUUX0PsfwgR8_7StrbkqbiB9rX-Hbqd_u3VpBu5PiySzIvYCCYn4nnasaBmS8dusM7HrXY9y6DhV/s640/Photo+Oct+17%252C+7+19+05+AM.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I arrive at school, Emergen-C, coffee and essential oils in tow. It seems I'm coming down with a cold or sinus infection and I'm trying to avoid getting sick before our kid-free weekend getaway!<br />
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Planning period. I finalize a few quarter one grades, reply to some emails, and begin working on my sub plans for Thursday and Friday. Did I mention I'm headed to Dallas and oh-so excited! I also snap a photo for my new Instagram account (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/schoolinstyle/" target="_blank">@schoolinstyle</a>) focused on teacher style/fashion. I'd love it if you follow along!<br />
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Back to teaching. Today's lesson included going outside to indirectly measure the height of a light pole. You know, math nerd things. But a total success when one student said "That was so much fun!"<br />
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End of the school day. First, I get the older boys, then on to get Rhett. I have them all by 4:20 and headed home!<br />
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Once home, my work clothes come off and comfy clothes go on.<br />
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And whoa, I come back downstairs and Rhett is halfway up the stairs!! Apparently, he climbs stairs now! Mental note taken.<br />
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The rest of the evening is a blur. Feeding three kids, washing bottles, laundry, packing three kids for four days at Grandma's, packing the dog stuff, bath/showers, bedtime, books, getting things ready to run out the door by 6:55am the following morning. Whew!<br />
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Finally, I sit down with a hot cup of tea and watch <i>This Is Us</i>. Ummmmm, the ending?! No spoilers here, but all I'll say is that it made me smile instead of cry for once!!<br />
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And back upstairs to <strike>finish</strike> start packing for myself. Who knows what time I'll actually get to bed tonight, but hopefully by the time I'm lounging at the pool on Thursday, it'll all be worth it.<br />
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<!-- end LinkyTools script -->Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-79982432365891561452017-09-30T06:00:00.000-05:002017-10-03T20:15:21.675-05:00An Ode to My Mini {Van}<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is a sponsored post in partnership with cars.com. All opinions are my own.</i><br />
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It's true what they say, minivans. are. amazing!! ๐๐</div>
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We were definitely "those people" who said they would "never, ever" drive a minivan. Yet here we are, three kids and one Toyota Sienna later and you know what? I reeeeeeally love my van!<br />
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I mean, the sliding doors, the space, the cup holders, the sliding doors, the DVD player, did I mention the sliding doors? Just the other day, I was at Sonic contemplating how to squeeze my size 8 body out of a size 2 space when I decided to climb over the console and out the sliding doors. Genius. And not a scratch or dent on my pretty little Sienna.<br />
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Did you know my van can <i>comfortably </i>fit eight passengers?! It has a "jump seat," as they call it, which is an eighth seat that can be quickly and easily installed/uninstalled between the two middle row seats. And what I really mean by quickly and easily - even mom can do it; no dad required! Let me tell you, those eight seats have come in mighty handy when we, alongside our best neighbor friends, are responsibly making plans and there's only one pregnant DD. Minivan for. the. win. (By the way, when not in use, the jump seat straps in nicely in the back of the van. Out of sight = out of mind.)<br />
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Also, we are still a three car seat family. Try as he might, Brantley is just not ready for a booster. Three car seats? Difficult to fit in the back of an SUV unless you buy the "skinny kind". Even the fattest of carseats will fit in my van!<br />
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You may have heard about the famed cup holders in a mini van. The stories are true. They are abundant beyond belief. In fact, there are six within arm's reach of just my driver's seat! I can have my coffee, my water, my Shakeology (who am I kidding, I don't drink that stuff anymore), and my wine (wait...) and there are <i>still </i>cup holders to spare!<br />
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Let's not even talk about the glove box<i>es</i> and console. Storage for daysssssss.<br />
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Let's <i>do</i> talk the DVD player though. We have a specific no-movie rule unless we are traveling outside of the KC area. But let me tell you, when we do allow movies, there's only so much I can handle. Enter: headphones. Did you know that, with headphones, kids can listen to a movie while we--the adults--jam out to all the gansta rap we want?! (Kidding obviously. But I do enjoy my country music while my kids watch <i>Frosty the Snowman</i> for the 197th time.)<br />
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And lastly, but certainly not least, the trunk space. Is trunk the right word given a minivan? Who knows. Anyway, I can fit a full-size stroller in the trunk and $150 worth of groceries and still have room. I don't know too many SUVs that can claim the same.<br />
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Long story short. I love our van. Craig loves our van. The kids love our van. We took it on its first road trip to Florida in July and it served us well. 15 hours there-and-back-well and now it holds those vacation memories that I will cherish for a long, long time.<br />
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Perhaps you are in the market for a new car, maybe even a van? (I promise you won't regret it!) You may want to start with <a href="http://cars.com/">cars.com</a>. It's a great website--for buyers and sellers alike--to start searching for a new car, list or trade a current car, or just research and read reviews of different cars. Did you know <a href="http://cars.com/">cars.com</a> also conducts carseat checks? Click <a href="https://www.cars.com/articles/2013/09/how-carscom-conducts-car-seat-checks/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> to see how!<br />
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One final van story. Most days, I feel like I'm still 25 years old. Until I get into my van and the reality of being a mom x3 slaps me in the face. However, apparently I don't look like a stereotypical "van person". On the first day of class this year, I played two truths and a lie with my students. One of my statements was that I drive a minivan. Every single class assumed that was my lie. Moral of the story: it's possible to be young and hip <i>and</i> drive a minivan! </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05186416865520806779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054367535732001160.post-85467522928335834682017-09-13T06:00:00.000-05:002017-09-13T09:30:46.958-05:00The Daily Dime / / September 2017<div style="text-align: center;">
I haven't had much motivation to blog since returning to school a month ago (it happens every August/September), but today is our fourth installment of <b>The Daily Dime</b> so here I go!<br />
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Date: Monday, September 11, 2017</div>
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Brantley is 5 years + 2 months.</div>
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Holden is 3 years + 4 months.</div>
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Rhett is 9 months old.<br />
Craig left mid-day for a work trip to Nashville so I was one my own with all three kids.</div>
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All photos were taken with my iPhone 6.</div>
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My alarm goes off at 5:30am. I lay in bed for a snooze or two and then roll out of bed to go get ready. I wouldn't call myself a morning person, but once I'm up, I'm fine. My clothes are laid out because I'm still excited about dressing up and on top of my wardrobe game. Plus, after being pregnant last year, it's like I have all new work apparel that I had forgotten about! I decide to curl my hair to avoid having to wash it (if you've been around for awhile, you know I hate showering). Rhett wakes around 6am so I go get him a bottle and give it to him in his crib in his dark room. At 6:44am, we are both ready for our day (and the only ones awake) so we take a mirror selfie.</div>
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The other boys' clocks turn green (and Craig's alarm goes off) at 6:45. I lay out some clothes for the boys, give everyone kisses, grab my things (coffee, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and purse) and head out for school shortly before 7. Craig is in charge of drop off for all three boys; I do pick-up. I have a short drive to work, only about eight minutes away.</div>
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On this particular day, I have to be at school for an NHS meeting (I'm a co-sponsor) at 7:20 so I arrive around 7:10. Normal days start at 7:30. I do like going to work before the masses; it's mostly peaceful on the roads at 7am and I get to see some great sunrises. Here's a picture of my school upon arrival. My classroom is just outside of view, one or two windows to the left.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ySEaovjUOlV9leXafQ94u0BvwVO48I4i9h6m8xSZkdpRKSL_6QzXZV9FryARzaqN9mjfjrnN3REXqRE5O2h5Ups1SiEh7oKk5ud_azd-ang6jK7NhpjIeJDq7-Rtm440-fMbMNxi2a22/s1600/Photo+Sep+11%252C+7+10+45+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ySEaovjUOlV9leXafQ94u0BvwVO48I4i9h6m8xSZkdpRKSL_6QzXZV9FryARzaqN9mjfjrnN3REXqRE5O2h5Ups1SiEh7oKk5ud_azd-ang6jK7NhpjIeJDq7-Rtm440-fMbMNxi2a22/s640/Photo+Sep+11%252C+7+10+45+AM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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School starts at 7:50. This year (and for two second year in a row), I have five blocks of Honors Math 2 (Geometry/Algebra 2) and one block of Math 2 Support (a remedial class where I review, reteach, and help students better understand the material). It's a pretty sweet schedule, I'm not going to lie! This was a blue day (block scheduling), so I teach first block and have second block plan. I use my plan time to grade, make copies, respond to emails, plan upcoming lessons, attend meetings, organize NHS files, etc. I love teaching, but I really love plan time, mainly because I love thinking about how to adequately teach particular topics. I always eat a mid-morning snack, lately it's always an apple!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoZnKX93_Nv2qfh9q1NzTxAYkborKF0a4mKgCgXT4t_S0ITPaQdhhGVEufdAa1yQcir_JJfhL7v8V7FBbmXurTyaWxrbob7YTU0tP3c8GMBjyklXeAmx6wVJycjecHKax_LD2S5IK-HJ5/s1600/Photo+Sep+11%252C+9+22+34+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoZnKX93_Nv2qfh9q1NzTxAYkborKF0a4mKgCgXT4t_S0ITPaQdhhGVEufdAa1yQcir_JJfhL7v8V7FBbmXurTyaWxrbob7YTU0tP3c8GMBjyklXeAmx6wVJycjecHKax_LD2S5IK-HJ5/s640/Photo+Sep+11%252C+9+22+34+AM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The rest of the day is business as usual. Third and fourth blocks (with lunch in between), then seminar, which is like an end-of-day study hall. My contract day ends at 3:30, but I hardly ever leave at that time! I would rather stay later and get my work done at school than have to take it home. Plus, I'm a perfectionist and everything has to be <i>just so</i> before I leave.</div>
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I did pack up to leave at 3:36 on this day because I had scheduled a Walmart grocery pickup for between 3 and 4. One of my favorite parts of our new daycare/preschool situation is the proximity to our house/my work, which allows me to swing by the grocery store on my way home. Still, to save time, I generally order my groceries online and schedule a pickup for the following day. (Sundays/Mondays are grocery days in our house.) Also, grocery pickup (and delivery) is the next best thing since sliced bread. If you're not using it, you should be. (Click <a href="http://r.wmt.co/gsppN" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> to save $10 on your first-ever Walmart order.) </div>
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I try to always get the kids by 4:30, but I can leave them until 5 (Rhett) and 5:45 (older boys) if need be. Once home, the older boys unpack their backpacks. We all love their new preschool, but holy moly, the amount of papers that come home with them is crazy! Most end up in the trash...what can I say, I don't like clutter.</div>
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The moment I'm home, my work clothes + heels come off and my hair promptly goes in a mom bun. #duh</div>
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The boys go outside to play football, while I get dinner ready. Since Daddy is out of town, dinner consists of corn dogs and leftover mac & cheese for the kids and a leftover Asian skillet meal for me. (Ain't no cookin' when I'm solo.) By the way, football is the current sport of choice in our house. However, it literally changes with the season. Since football is on t.v., that's what they play! Give it two months and the basketball goal will be in the middle of our dining room floor.</div>
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Dinner for Rhett. At nine months, he's eating a mixture of pureed baby food and finger foods. Tonight he ate some diced banana, diced peas, diced watermelon, and puffs (to keep him occupied while I did a few things). Then, I fed him rice, pureed blueberry/carrot mixture, and meat while the boys ate their dinner of champions. He's such a happy, fun boy these days!</div>
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After dinner, I cleaned up (which took forever, despite the meal of leftovers๐ฉ...boys are messy!) and washed/prepped bottles for the following day. The older boys had gone to play with some neighbors. It happened to be 9/11 and there was a Royals pregame tribute for the victims of the terrorist attacks. Taps is what drew me in so I watched while solemnly thinking about that day 16 years prior. It is still so incredibly sad, yet it absolutely blows my mind that those attacks were so many years ago. (On a side note, most of the students I currently have in class were not even born then!! A kid I had last year was born on <i>that</i> exact day.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Sp9GR-U17EaZaJaDg5O4lSjkfu53LJ3om3Wy44alEjmFOtLYfkODuzkUu8Z9zfYmmxPh16QZ80f7PDR40SjUayrq95eHArA6jyUtdSfCphy398pA-Jg5OFwqcN48kqg5JlaW8VXAwQnG/s1600/Photo+Sep+11%252C+6+43+07+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Sp9GR-U17EaZaJaDg5O4lSjkfu53LJ3om3Wy44alEjmFOtLYfkODuzkUu8Z9zfYmmxPh16QZ80f7PDR40SjUayrq95eHArA6jyUtdSfCphy398pA-Jg5OFwqcN48kqg5JlaW8VXAwQnG/s640/Photo+Sep+11%252C+6+43+07+PM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Shortly after, it was already 7pm (solo evenings seriously feel like a marathon) so I put Rhett to bed--along with another bottle--and sat down for a few moments. Around 7:25, I walked to the culdesac behind our house to get our boys. The sky was gorgeous and I'm a sucker for a pretty sky. It was a struggle to drag home the boys (they love their neighbor friends), but they were finally in bed at 7:55pm and I had some quiet time to catch up on social media and watch the Royals, my normal nightly things.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmylj2c1gXpaIX_HqzIegWB7C1uMzed1xmY93yBr3TmYpdK7uTp5D2yGuu69n68ocaKaqQJVIpe8eMm7-IWf2269Ckniz-QGFlD-d7hnef-0kl2n9QkBl8Gf1-uoWK24QlgMHZzZyd3yF/s1600/Photo+Sep+12%252C+7+40+14+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmylj2c1gXpaIX_HqzIegWB7C1uMzed1xmY93yBr3TmYpdK7uTp5D2yGuu69n68ocaKaqQJVIpe8eMm7-IWf2269Ckniz-QGFlD-d7hnef-0kl2n9QkBl8Gf1-uoWK24QlgMHZzZyd3yF/s640/Photo+Sep+12%252C+7+40+14+PM.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Before heading to bed, I got everything ready for the next morning - lunch packed, coffee tumbler ready, Keurig prepped, water bottles filled, boys' breakfast laid out, dog food ready to go, etc. etc. etc. I don't typically do all of this, but since Craig was out of town, I needed to get up extra early and drop off all three kids en route to work so I over-prepare myself for a smooth morning. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeGfwhnpjHRTANYgw5TDShJjs1SVHg169nY4zpGkbbNzdk9jehGEkn-t1liKEXQW05jo1v1HjO3iZegrKnLw0k8MBfO5XI-jWb8CN4GpUEC7NOFXPpf2tYPMKIv9k4oRo8Jc76ymt1PfV/s1600/Photo+Sep+12%252C+5+53+25+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeGfwhnpjHRTANYgw5TDShJjs1SVHg169nY4zpGkbbNzdk9jehGEkn-t1liKEXQW05jo1v1HjO3iZegrKnLw0k8MBfO5XI-jWb8CN4GpUEC7NOFXPpf2tYPMKIv9k4oRo8Jc76ymt1PfV/s640/Photo+Sep+12%252C+5+53+25+AM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once upstairs, I hopped in the shower and made sure to shave my legs (dress/skirt season). I put my wet hair in a messy ponytail/bun to sleep so that I could just get up and go in the morning. I didn't take a photo, but I was in bed shortly after 10pm and ready to do it all again the next day! So there's my day in <strike>10</strike> 13 photos. I can't seem to do it in ten...</div>
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Now, tell me about your day and link up below. Link-up will be open for two weeks so you have plenty of time! I would especially love to read about other teachers' days! And fyi, next month's link-up will go live on Wednesday, October 18 so mark your blogging calendars now!</div>
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">Hosts:</b></div>
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Kristin // <a href="http://www.tazandbelly.com/" style="color: #bf9626; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms linear;" target="_blank">Taz + Belly</a></div>
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Kristy // <a href="http://www.sevengracesblog.com/" style="color: #bf9626; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms linear;" target="_blank">Seven Graces</a></div>
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Kerry // <a href="http://xokerry.com/" style="color: #bf9626; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms linear;" target="_blank">XO Kerry</a></div>
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Chelsea // <a href="https://binkiesandbaubles.com/" style="color: #bf9626; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms linear;" target="_blank">Binkies and Baubles</a></div>
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Jennifer // <a href="http://www.lifeinthegreenhouse.com/" style="color: #bf9626; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms linear;" target="_blank">Life in the Greenhouse</a></div>
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Courtney // <a href="http://www.ouralabamalife.com/" style="color: #bf9626; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms linear;" target="_blank">Our Alabama Life</a><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Guest Host this Month:</b><br />
Jacqui German // <a href="http://drinktheday.com/" target="_blank">Drink the Day</a></div>
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