tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77461273547016298862024-03-05T05:50:34.819-05:00If You Give A Mom a CookieJust a small town girl, living in a bright beautiful world.Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.comBlogger219125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-78524067596848731442018-11-12T21:19:00.000-05:002018-11-12T21:19:10.480-05:00<div align="right">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: start;">Before we got married, my husband and I would plan dates but have themes set in order to keep it interesting fun for planning. This book fits right into our lives and our style of dating. Since having kids, we don't have the time to actually go out on dates 52 times a year, but find some of these date options helpful and fun. We could see doing at least 12 of them (once a month). The book was informative, fun, light-hearted, and inspiring.</span></div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-68924052305931122982017-01-09T12:25:00.001-05:002017-01-09T12:25:55.550-05:00Five Love Languages of Children<div align="right">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Who knew there was an actual love language? When I think of how I let my kids know I love them, I think of the words I say or the hugs I give. Some kids, however, do not thrive just on hugs and words. Gary D. Chapman analyzes the way kids receive love in his book, "The Five Love Languages of Children." Published by Moody Publishing, Gary Chapman has a collection of books that explain the different love languages pertaining to children, teenagers and in marriage. </span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Much like the first book, "The Five Love Languages", Gary D. Chapman reviews the five ways</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> children receive love. They explain how to identify your child's primary love language and</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> provides countless examples of how to speak using this love language based on different ages.</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Having children in range of 0-17, I found this so interesting. There was also guidance in how to </span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">differently </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">discipline children based on their l</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ove language.</span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Broken into five types, children fall into: Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Physical Touch, </span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Quality Time, and Gifts. </span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />I immediately realized I wasn't meeting my sons' different love languages, as I always</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> assumed words of affirmation worked on all three of them. I realize it's more than just </span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">telling them they are doing a great job, or I am proud of them. In addition to these kind </span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">words, a small gesture like a hand on the back, or holding hands while watching TV seem</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> to put my youngest at ease. Whereas my eldest son thrives with acts of service, and my middle </span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">with time spent. </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He loves to help and assist, and as long as I let him or give</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> him tasks, he realizes how much I appreciate him and care.</span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />I absolutely love this series, and would recommend any parent to read this book.</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-base review-text" data-hook="review-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please let me know if you have read his other books, and what you thought! </span></span></div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-35854486207552141462016-08-09T20:08:00.000-04:002016-08-09T20:08:47.990-04:00Raise your Glass!<div align="right">
http://www.heatherchristo.com/cooks/2013/06/06/blueberry-lime-margaritas/<br />
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Baby leggings!</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-72742391706736114242014-10-23T13:41:00.000-04:002014-10-23T13:41:24.511-04:00Gift for My Husband<div align="right">
Many days go by, and I don't think about my husband. That sounds harsh, but I feel that life is so crazy and we are so busy, that by the time I get home from work, I have just enough energy to plop on the couch and pass out. </div>
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I miss our dates. I miss doing stuff with just him. For his birthday, I decided to make something that we could enjoy together. We often like to eat out - but seem to pick the same 5 places (all of which we love!), but there are so many interesting places we mean to try and forget about!</div>
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(Drum roll please!) I made him a Food Passport :)</div>
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I cut white paper in fourths, and then stapled them together like a book. I didn't count the pages, so basically I shoved as many pages I could without having the staples bust. On my lunch breaks, I drew many many lines on each page - so each page would house two restaurants. </div>
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After asking everyone under the sun to list their favorite restaurants, and then looking up menus online - I compiled a lengthy list of 100-plus places to dine. Some focus on a specific cuisine, others I picked because of its location or beautiful views. <br />
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Just like a passport, we stamp each restaurant square after visiting, leaving comments on our experience.<br />
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-45021536476022891742014-10-23T13:40:00.002-04:002014-10-23T13:40:25.380-04:00You have a baby! <div align="right">
So much has happened in the past year, and I can document it with only a one photo. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemJF2Efy-I-YH1_3p7obdeFjsqHAm1OKeC_BvXVCR8FooHAFUGXQBTqREr2iFkVMwtEFr5jRUGLE0YHTOQqqindPqOSv7yNhWt1H8ZzXUCq_-2XPOQY1wshkQlzRwf4FeQVv93iOVfik/s1600/IMG_3760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemJF2Efy-I-YH1_3p7obdeFjsqHAm1OKeC_BvXVCR8FooHAFUGXQBTqREr2iFkVMwtEFr5jRUGLE0YHTOQqqindPqOSv7yNhWt1H8ZzXUCq_-2XPOQY1wshkQlzRwf4FeQVv93iOVfik/s1600/IMG_3760.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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HELLO WORLD!! </div>
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Emmett Joseph arrived on April 26th at 11:16PM. </div>
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And I thank my lucky stars every day. </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-58714215430038425062013-09-24T12:33:00.001-04:002013-09-24T12:33:35.466-04:00Fruits in the form of tea<div align="right">
Some people obsess over fashion. Others like their coffees or shoes. Some people are hooked on crack (okay - those are two polar examples). But me? I love me some tea. I like <strike>hoarding </strike>collecting tea so much, that I moved around my cookbooks on the shelf to accommodate my tea containers. I think what I like so much about them is that there are SO many types, and there are fancy smancy containers. There are even restaurants dedicated to their cause! There was even a party in the 1700s. I'm sure it was great!</div>
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For my birthday, I received an awesome mix of iced teas. In this gift box, there were 6 types of teas in containers, and a pound of rock sugar. <br />
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Berry Mint Cassis and Rasberry Riot Lemon Mate</div>
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Pineapple Kona and Wild Orange Blossom </div>
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Not Pictured: Blueberry Bliss and Watermelon Mint Chiller</div>
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This rock sugar will last a REALLY long time since I am not trying to use sugar all that much. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKWlAZzYbk8qZAgct9FjT3OLVYJzyAejH2fzdeavBcwrpF6hFBVY_wk6IMNP7iim4ua6AVQ4Zf8kqmUapGotsZqS6LHemCEXvEycxcXV1Ne7Cc6qUWFOOXGhT-qGBnjWYC6tAWkxiB1c/s1600/IMG_5569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKWlAZzYbk8qZAgct9FjT3OLVYJzyAejH2fzdeavBcwrpF6hFBVY_wk6IMNP7iim4ua6AVQ4Zf8kqmUapGotsZqS6LHemCEXvEycxcXV1Ne7Cc6qUWFOOXGhT-qGBnjWYC6tAWkxiB1c/s320/IMG_5569.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">This was after making Blueberry Bliss, as the tea started to settle. How cool to watch the water change! It was delightfully delicious! We didn't add additional sugar, but if you wanted it sweeter - you can add the rock sugar when the water's warm. </span><br />
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*My only concern about the Teavanna teas is the amount of sugar, hidden in the teas. I have a serious addiction (I kid....only sorta). Anyone know of the best COMPLETELY sugar free tea? </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-25010684652670323162013-09-02T09:18:00.002-04:002013-09-02T09:18:52.535-04:00Road Trip to VA<div align="right">
We just got back from our road trip to Williamsburg, Virginia. On our way down, my IPhone was an intricate part of our ride down. After NINE long hours of sitting in the car, I wanted to kiss my phone for provided entertainment in many ways.<br />
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Let's look at the check list:</div>
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Waze App: This not only provided our route, but also alerted us when there was traffic, accidents, and road blocks. The whole app runs off of client participation, so the more you post, the more points you get. It's updated each time a person posts about the map, and it will reroute you once it recognizes too much traffic. </div>
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Over: LOVE this app! Not only can you take pictures with it, but you can change the picture through this program and write captions on the photo. I spent hours captioning all our family photos on the way home. For a limited time, you can download free in-house purchases that change the font and add clever phrases.<br />
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Untapped: This is the most under-rated app around. Sometimes it freezes, but with the different and unique beers I drank throughout the week, it was great to log what I had. Oftentimes, I have something and forget what if I enjoyed it or not, so with this app, I can write down my thoughts! I can even take pictures, make comments, and write down the location of the brew. So fun!<br />
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Gas Buddy: Oh gas buddy. I am old enough to know say I remember when gas was only 80 cents when I first got my license. Now? It's 3.59 on a good day. Gas Buddy helps me find a deal nearby.<br />
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Road Trippers: Though we didn't use this app on our way to Virginia, it was fun to see what crazy sites were on the way to our final destination. This is hands down one of my favorite apps because I can create any list and tailor the destinations. If we are only driving up the Northeast coast, then I can create a route that hits the places on the way. So fun! It gives you a little history and links you to any websites or articles about the places. <br />
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Field Trip: This app alerts you of any locations worthy of a field trip - museums, historical sites, battle sites (right up our alley in Wlliamsburg!) You can customize your route based on "thumbs up" or "thumbs down." There's also an option to read the description aloud like as if you were on a guided tour!<br />
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All these apps are available for the Iphone, not so sure about other devices. Thanks Apple for making our journey chalk-full of info! </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-40448557161214923962013-08-25T19:03:00.000-04:002013-08-25T19:03:54.094-04:00Drinks on me!<div align="right">
I'm a little behind in posting about our mail, and when I put it like that, it doesn't sound very fun at all. BeSpoke Post caters to men, (but I say pshh), and allows the subscriber to pick from 2-3 types of themes each month. They select one hip box, and at the end of the month,it is mailed to your doorstep. I kinda fell in love with this after seeing some of the previous boxes. <br />
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This box, Slate, I sadly missed. But it came with a giant piece of slate to use as a cutting board, a knife, and some mustards and dips. </div>
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<a href="https://www.bespokepost.com/media/W1siZiIsIjIwMTIvMTEvMjkvMDgvMzgvNDAvMzIwLzEuanBnIl0sWyJwIiwidGh1bWIiLCI5NDB4PiJdLFsiZSIsImpwZyIsIi1xdWFsaXR5IDgwIl1d/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://www.bespokepost.com/media/W1siZiIsIjIwMTIvMTEvMjkvMDgvMzgvNDAvMzIwLzEuanBnIl0sWyJwIiwidGh1bWIiLCI5NDB4PiJdLFsiZSIsImpwZyIsIi1xdWFsaXR5IDgwIl1d/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Roast pretty much had Mr's name written all over it. I knew I had to order this box for us (him, I meant him.)</div>
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Last month's shipment was entitled "Agave." Inspired by a classic drink, this box contains everything from the glasses, ice cube tray, lemon squeezer, and shaker. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx-Qcz3ldCInFUyXoZG1-yCPca6MVgxV72wHymSeZZXnrLrT9jS9FRffX1DVJKLJSD-kvpeDMD6vCtygcO17RumkSMwwM9RZKui9f_bNtVxFEsp5XMJJLtCkpoAbosEY6uQNLm92N852g/s1600/DSC06167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx-Qcz3ldCInFUyXoZG1-yCPca6MVgxV72wHymSeZZXnrLrT9jS9FRffX1DVJKLJSD-kvpeDMD6vCtygcO17RumkSMwwM9RZKui9f_bNtVxFEsp5XMJJLtCkpoAbosEY6uQNLm92N852g/s320/DSC06167.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm not much of a mixed drinker, but I couldn't help but fall in love with the ice ball molds. They are like mini baseball ice cubes. And for someone who LOVES ice in drinks, I snatched these up and stuck them immediately in the freezer. </div>
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After taking a peek at the merch, I love the embossed glasses the best. Don Julio, premium tequila, put their logo on the bottom, but I think it adds something to it. </div>
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Also included in this set: Juicer, Boston shaker, julep strainer, and a jigger. Jigga what? I think that's all a true gentleman needs - oh yeah, that and some actual liquor. I guess shipping liquor through the mail would cost more than $45 of awesome. But regardless, we are loving our box! Till next month! </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-211722768489908132013-08-19T16:16:00.000-04:002013-08-19T16:16:50.469-04:00Let's Take a Stroll <div align="right">
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On July 10, 2009 I married my best friend. On our first anniversary, we went to Maine (beautiful!), but I don't honestly remember if we did anything at all 2nd and 3rd year. This year, we rang in our day of wedded bliss under the bright lights of New York City. Our first night we went to see Annie on Broadway (absolutely loved it!) The song "Maybe" has been stuck in my head ever since :)<br />
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The next day, after eating at the <a href="http://www.sarabethsrestaurants.com/central-park-south/">SaraBeth's</a> by Central Park, and indulging in the <i>best</i> eggs benedict. we navigated the curvy paths of Central Park. We had no set plan, but decided we would go wherever the roads took us. Half way through the day both of our cell phones died, which was kind of nice because it was just us. Anything we wanted to do, we had to search :) It was an adventure. And I love adventures!<br />
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We stumbled upon tables for chess and checkers, and after declaring myself Queen of Checkers, Mr. and I played about 6 games to test my title. Needless to say, I still have my invisible crown :)</div>
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As we walked through the beautiful paths of Central Park, we stopped at a vendor table - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/michellehan?ref=seller_info">Michelle Han</a>. Her hand cut stamps and prints were simple and fantastic. We found a pretty sweet Christmas gift for my brother-in-law, and then decided to get something to mark our trip. The one we picked was the 8x10 adventure print.<br />
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As we drove home, Mr. and I debated on what it was she made a stamp of - a cliff or ship? I think it's interesting that we both immediately saw a completely different image. I saw this and thought "A boat! An Adventure across the seas! Love it!" Mr. saw it and thought, "A Cliff. " Please note the lack of exclamation marks because something has to be REALLY sock-knocking to have him be super pumped. He is pretty mellow, which balances out my excitement for everything. I still say it's the tip of a ship, with a rock on it (okay - when I saw that out loud, it doesn't make sense - but does life?).<br />
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What a wonderful day with a wonderful guy!</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-33450934300973498052013-08-18T23:52:00.000-04:002013-08-18T23:52:34.917-04:00Stand up and grill <div align="right">
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There's something thrilling when the cardboard box arrives on our doorstep, and even if I know what it's it- I still feel a bit of a rush as I peel back the lid. This month we received a fantastic box from <a href="https://www.bespokepost.com/dashboard">BeSpokePost </a> which advertises as a box of awesome, and awesome it is! <br />
After getting my own box of fun last month, I thought it was time that Mister got something! <br />
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Last month's box marketed Himalayan Salt plate - and really, what is more awesome!? This block of salt goes on the grill, or open gas oven (which we don't have). You can cook fish, steak, veggies, chicken - pretty much anything! The salt naturally seasons the item, making it super tasty. </div>
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In addition to the salt block, the package also came with two rubs/seasonings and a spatula. The price of the box per month is $45.00. After looking up the prices of the items, the box was clearly worth it!<br />
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Cant't wait to make more, as right now it's just a thing of beauty. Salt blocks are ideal not only for cooking food, but also for serving. Raw fish, like sushi, picks up the saltiness of the block. Put the block in the fridge for about two hours, and arrange tomatoes and cheese, or watermelon, mint and feta. If you let it sit for 20 minutes or so, the salt will totally pop!</div>
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After some searching, I found <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Salt-Block-Cooking-Grilling-Himalayan/dp/1449430554">Salt Block Cooking</a> by Mark Bitterman. The recipes in here looking A-mazing! My favorite is the apple onion tart with blue cheese. </div>
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I can't wait to get cooking on this! </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-9795899580334427942013-07-07T11:46:00.002-04:002013-07-07T11:57:42.302-04:00Sitting on the Dock of the Bay Watching the Tide<div align="right">
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This summer, one of my role models will turn 80. Appearances alone will tell you age ain't nothing but a number, because she is nothing like how I picture 80 year old women. She is lively, funny, and has the kindest heart I know of any person in the world. It is her impeccable handwriting, that I will forever have on my arm as a reminder how to live life. Wherever you go, go with all your heart. That is exactly what she does - goes everywhere with her heart.<br />
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The season that most reminds me of my grandmother is summer. The salty sea breeze, the warm sand between my toes, and the ocean lapping at my feet remind me of my summers spent at the beach with my entire family - specifically my grandmother. Her love of the shore was apparent as she often was only a tiny blip in the ocean as she bobbed along the waves for hours. Even as a kid, I knew I wanted to be her when I grew up.<br />
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She will turn 80 in August, our family decided to put together a scrapbook. Each person gets to design a page dedicated to this woman who brought seven children into this bright and beautiful world, which subsequently brought us, the grandchildren, into the same life.<br />
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I have two weeks to think of a way to write my heart on a page, but words don't seem to be enough. How do you wrap up how much you love and respect someone on a single scrapbooking page? How can I let her know how much she has taught me - not just how to play Backgammon, but how to love fearlessly, how to love heartily, and how to laugh even when it seems difficult. She seems to see the good in most, and when she doesn't, her humor takes over. She comes from a generation of where women take the backseat to men - but she stands on her own. Independent and lively, she takes yoga, line dancing, and meets with her ladies to play tennis. Even through hardship and trials, these moments have not taken her spirit - but perhaps made it stronger. She is who I continue to want to be.<br />
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Happy Birthday Grandma - a little early because you deserve the happiness.<br />
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-75087657905728979682013-07-05T09:58:00.001-04:002013-07-05T09:59:01.965-04:00Grilled Chicken with pineapple<div align="right">
Holy Heavens! I had the best meal today. We bought a giant pineapple and a ridiculous amount of chicken. On the grill, we mixed the two and made a wonderful dinner baby.<br />
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There's something about grilling and a the little bit of charred that makes the food taste so much better! </div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Pineapple Coconut Kebobs</b></span><br />
pound of cubed chicken<br />
fresh pineapple cubed<br />
can of cream of coconut<br />
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We pretty much did the follow: diced the chicken and threw it in a bowl filled with cream of coconut milk overnight.<br />
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We like to buy whole pineapples - pretty much it's more bang for your buck and it's almost always super juicy. I am a little intimidated cutting it - but Mr. doesn't seem to have a problem. </div>
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After cutting up the pineapple and cubing it, we then alternating sticking chicken and pineapple on skewers. We only used half of the pineapple, and saved the other half for a sweet treat later in the day. <br />
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A pound of chicken and half of pineapple with 6-7 pieces each on a skewer made about 22.</div>
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We let them sit on the grill and flipped them every few minutes. The pineapple juice ran a bit into the chicken so it was extra flavorful. </div>
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It was a perfect quick (<i>sorta quick)</i> lunch and it was ultra healthy.<br />
Happy 4th of July weekend!!<br />
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-28490478178325288662013-07-05T01:45:00.000-04:002013-07-05T01:45:26.991-04:00Ring a Ding Ding<div align="right">
With my wicker basket and my tomato bike bell, I feel like me and my baby blue bike can do anything. However, I recently took my bike out of the shed after a long winter, and realized the cute bell I would ring for no reason, didn't work. Instead of alerting people of my comings and goings, or getting Mr's attention, it now makes a sickening click....non-effective!<br />
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With one thing on my brain - I found a slew of different bells that would take the place of my tomato. Which is the cutest? You decide.<br />
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<a href="http://www.beebopsandlollipops.com/flbibe.html">Flamingo Bike Bell</a> - $8<br />
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<a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-53832556285370_2268_21535445" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-53832556285370_2268_21535445" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lieflifestyle.com/lifestyle/fietsen/bicycle-accessories/bell-38395">Lief! bell</a> - This is only sold in UK, and seriously is as cute as a button.</div>
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<a href="http://www.lieflifestyle.com/media/catalog/product/cache/4/image/321x458/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/l/5/l516148-780_kleur405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.lieflifestyle.com/media/catalog/product/cache/4/image/321x458/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/l/5/l516148-780_kleur405.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.perpetualkid.com/turtle-bike-bell.aspx?device=c&network=g&matchtype=&creative=23132556536&adpos=1o1&gclid=CNXM8LfNl7gCFQSZ4Aod8lYAcg">Turtle Bike Bell</a> - $17</div>
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<a href="http://edgecastcdn.net/800034/www.perpetualkid.com/productimages/lg3/BELL-2001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://edgecastcdn.net/800034/www.perpetualkid.com/productimages/lg3/BELL-2001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.perpetualkid.com/tweeting-bird-bike-light-horn.aspx">Bird Bike Bell </a>- $30 (This is also a light which is great if you are coming home as it's getting dark!)</div>
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<a href="http://edgecastcdn.net/800034/www.perpetualkid.com/productimages/lg3/BIKE-2057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://edgecastcdn.net/800034/www.perpetualkid.com/productimages/lg3/BIKE-2057.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://poketo.com/shop/Hand-Painted-Bike-Bells">Orange Hand Painted Bell</a> - $29.99</div>
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<a href="http://cdn.poketo.com/shop/image/cache/data/accessories/bike_bell_group_t1-460x460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://cdn.poketo.com/shop/image/cache/data/accessories/bike_bell_group_t1-460x460.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are too many to chose from, but at least I know there are ones out there to replace my now dudded tomato bell. <i>A moment of silence for the ol' chap.</i></div>
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Which one would you pick? </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-50954097368721175492013-07-05T00:57:00.001-04:002013-07-05T00:58:29.581-04:00Signed Sealed Delivered<div align="right">
There's something about opening up your mailbox and seeing a cardboard box with your name on it - which I guess that 's better than seeing someone else's name. What a disappointment that would be! You are all psyched because you see an BIG box, and your mind starts going - gee what did I order? Did someone send a gift? And then you pull it out, and it doesn't even have your name on it - it's the lady two doors down who has a solid obsession with the home shopping network.<br />
To prevent the potential theft of my neighbor's Mighty Flexible Sealer (this IS a product on HSN. Don't ask.), I found the company Birch Box. I love surprises, mail, and samples. This company combines all three in one inexpensive box.<br />
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I signed up for this program last week, and already received my box for June. <br />
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The company, <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/">BirchBox</a>, sends you beauty and health samples every month depending on your profile. You have the option of then buying the full size product on the website. Each month has a different theme and June focuses on traveling - "Wanderlust".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifci2sCFzwS8Ec64zghLU05cVoSCznbpZn4YmuCnpYQYmm_844zkr5YdAiohKwGfBj-siblRLEZJ9_cPz9fOmHJqX-7PYtPQV8SJvrotI6_s9KrNjzmY1QV1kziKBSY3claGcZl4x6JK0/s1600/DSC05696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifci2sCFzwS8Ec64zghLU05cVoSCznbpZn4YmuCnpYQYmm_844zkr5YdAiohKwGfBj-siblRLEZJ9_cPz9fOmHJqX-7PYtPQV8SJvrotI6_s9KrNjzmY1QV1kziKBSY3claGcZl4x6JK0/s320/DSC05696.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Once I received this box, I ran up the steps and thew down all the other mail. Ripping open the container, I found a nice little selection of items. </div>
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1. <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/coola-face-spf-30-cucumber-moisturizer?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=070313_1416203135&utm_campaign=070313_W_JuneNL%233_coola">Coola Classic SPF 30 Cucumber Organic Suncare</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/5566/s/color-club-wanderlust-collection/?gclid=CKqFn6HAl7gCFUyi4AodyVIAwA">Wanderlust ColorClub Nail polish</a> - Mod for Manhattan</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwp-TFmtnaUxqyYoSL829HBBVx36XWNDVjm_He4KGEB1augNa2Oe_bGHTCcd3qGtXaEKi9cFA9wBooXo6EJwx0M49w_AZYvsP-zv_1qUcM_2q7rBsaiTU-5ZkYfMgXa7nLobi8Ryzl3O0/s1600/DSC05689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwp-TFmtnaUxqyYoSL829HBBVx36XWNDVjm_He4KGEB1augNa2Oe_bGHTCcd3qGtXaEKi9cFA9wBooXo6EJwx0M49w_AZYvsP-zv_1qUcM_2q7rBsaiTU-5ZkYfMgXa7nLobi8Ryzl3O0/s320/DSC05689.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Today was the first day I used this lotion and I have to tell you it was light weight , non greasy and didn't make my face shine like the sun. I put it on mid-day then spent the rest of my afternoon outdoors, and when I came in for the evening, I didn't have any redness.<br />
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Before I even received the June box, I bought the colors off the website because I LOVED the four colors. Unfortunately, the one they sent was my least favorite. They are smaller bottles, but they don't clump. The colors are fun and summery.<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/june-2013-box/twistband-custom-summer-nautical-collection">Twistband Hair Ties</a><br />
4. Wanderlust postcards<br />
5. <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/june-2013-box/juicy-couture-la-la-3-4-oz">Couture La La sample perfume</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP17slH5TvUOt4XMC-ZOVUtTdfgrQZbgpHstLTGhWNLDfXiulwqmGUcC4rLXtxKVTYlZHgXZB9Oam96frZ0bbf-T-kSObW8zaRz9DGCPO-DIHzjZg9ysefh6IrmMQSPO-JJ1fUu5G-8fg/s1600/DSC05694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP17slH5TvUOt4XMC-ZOVUtTdfgrQZbgpHstLTGhWNLDfXiulwqmGUcC4rLXtxKVTYlZHgXZB9Oam96frZ0bbf-T-kSObW8zaRz9DGCPO-DIHzjZg9ysefh6IrmMQSPO-JJ1fUu5G-8fg/s320/DSC05694.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The postcards came with 6 different universal "Hello" greetings. These will be super cute to mail out when we are away for a few days, or want to send a quick hey to someone!</div>
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These hair ties were hands or hairs down my favorite product. So much, in fact, that I bought the whole set online. They are sold out right now - but I would continue to check in to see if you can order them. The patterns are fun and nautical (great for the summer), and the company prides themselves on the fact that using these ties will not leave a crease in your hair. Awesome! I often have a few hairbands around my wrist for "just in case" moments, and these serve not only as functional but fashionable. Love love!</div>
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The perfume is sweet smelling, but not over powering. I liked it but probably wouldn't spend the $90 a bottle. </div>
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6. <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/june-2013-box/eyeko-skinny-liquid-liner">Eyeko Skinny Liquid eyeliner</a><br />
7. <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/june-2013-box/amika-obliphica-nourishing-hair-mask">Amika Hair mask</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-rKVFHNj4stA_31p90NNKrckpuEEruEwTylbpgjeNuWRxXU_HtsZr7MzKbicVm1gqNXnp7owKfPtdh-_MKN0nl6lwJMXsdcs3q6m1TlL3W_tetLfvqHg45bNnvO1zXFrnB0lLTEMA00/s1600/DSC05698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-rKVFHNj4stA_31p90NNKrckpuEEruEwTylbpgjeNuWRxXU_HtsZr7MzKbicVm1gqNXnp7owKfPtdh-_MKN0nl6lwJMXsdcs3q6m1TlL3W_tetLfvqHg45bNnvO1zXFrnB0lLTEMA00/s320/DSC05698.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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One of the neatest products was the skinny eyeliner. Mostly because I would never purchase this myself, but I found it fun and easy to use. In addition to sending a full size liner, the company also sends you a youtube video through your email on how to actually use it the "correct" way - and by that I mean not turning out like a raccoon or a prostitute.<br />
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I have no picture of the hair creme because simply - I used it all. The sample got me through three hair washings, and I LOVED the citrus smell. I forced A to use it this weekend, as I raved about how smooth and silky my hair felt. I could have been a walking flipping advertisement. I can't say enough good things, only I wished our time together lasted more than a weekend. The jar is mucho expensive, and at $40 a pop, I probably won't be buying it anytime soon -but I thoroughly enjoyed the samples. <br />
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Overall, I loved this month's selection and I can.not.wait. till July's box!!<br />
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-89190387255364311402013-07-05T00:40:00.001-04:002013-07-05T00:58:46.073-04:00A Salty Treat for the Salty Shore<div align="right">
Prepping for the 4th of July literally meant Mr. and I were in the kitchen all day - ALL day. Today was the first truly sunny day in what I think we had in weeks, if not months, maybe even years. I feel like rain has been pouring down since as long as I can remember -and the one day the sun decided to peek out, we had to man the kitchen. However, after looking at the five day forecast, it seems promising that we didn't miss out on the only sunny day. </div>
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After visiting the local ice cream shop multiple times this week (and it's only Wednesday), I can't seem to get enough of the Salted Carmel Pretzel ice cream. I decided to carry this sweet treat over in the form of a cookie. Scouring the internet, I adapted the recipes I found from <a href="http://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/2012/09/nutella-stuffed-brown-butter-sea-salt-chocolate-chip-cookies-my-favorite-cookie-ever/">Ambitious Kitchen</a>, and created a salty goodness ready for the 4th of July. </div>
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The one main ingredient that makes this recipe mind-blowing (maybe that's a bit exaggerated, maybe not) is Nutella. Now, if you have never in your life had the chocolate hazelnut spread that is Nutella, please run out to the store now,buy it and spread it on anything. Seriously - anything. A piece of bread, moldy cheese, anything. It will literally change your life in only the best way possible. </div>
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Now with that being said, if you aren't a fan of hazelnut chocolately goodness, then just omit it from the recipe. But don't hate it till you tried it :)</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies and Sea Salt</span></b><br />
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2 1/4 cups flour<br />
1 1/2 sticks of butter (melted)<br />
2/3 jar of Nutella<br />
1 cup chocolate chips (let's be real - I use the whole bag)<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1/4 sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />
1 tablespoon greek yogurt<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfBwouUr_QclmzrW_r7B_um380kmjtucFETSXjWt1fW1cmiV3lxutmlI7uiVgax1VzUTCtnnUjcj4nqJ93FMbwUfRIzP-TxEu0L9RS6BIifnNXsot7g0AjVG0Hf76QptnTZsw80fp1-s/s1600/DSC05672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfBwouUr_QclmzrW_r7B_um380kmjtucFETSXjWt1fW1cmiV3lxutmlI7uiVgax1VzUTCtnnUjcj4nqJ93FMbwUfRIzP-TxEu0L9RS6BIifnNXsot7g0AjVG0Hf76QptnTZsw80fp1-s/s320/DSC05672.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 50%; color: black; font-family: '\'Times New Roman\'', serif; font-size: 15px !important; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 10px 16px 10px 30px !important; overflow: visible; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Mix flour and baking soda together and set aside. </li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 50%; color: black; font-family: '\'Times New Roman\'', serif; font-size: 15px !important; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 10px 16px 10px 30px !important; overflow: visible; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">With a mixer, mix the butter and sugars until well blended. Beat in the eggs, vanilla, and yogurt until combined. Add the flour mix and beat until completely combined. Gently fold in all of the chocolate chips.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 50%; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 10px 16px 10px 30px !important; overflow: visible; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: \Times New Roman\, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px !important; line-height: inherit;">Place dough in fridge for </span>at least<span style="font-size: 15px !important; line-height: inherit;"> 2 hours. I left mine in for 4 hours, which worked out better with the Nutella. Place Nutella in fridge during this time to </span>solidify<span style="font-size: 15px !important; line-height: inherit;"> a bit. </span></span></li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 50%; color: black; font-family: '\'Times New Roman\'', serif; font-size: 15px !important; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 10px 16px 10px 30px !important; overflow: visible; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. After dough hardens, take out of fridge and make into balls of dough. Flatten them in the palm of your hand and spoon chilled Nutella in the middle. Be sure to fold dough around this gently and completely. </li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 50%; color: black; font-family: '\'Times New Roman\'', serif; font-size: 15px !important; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 10px 16px 10px 30px !important; overflow: visible; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Bake the cookies 10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden brown. They will look a bit underdone in the middle, but will continue to cook once out of the oven. Cool the cookies on the sheets and sprinkle with a little sea salt. </li>
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I am NOT a fan of salt, but these cookies had a different type of taste that set them apart from most chocolate chip cookies I've made. I think sea salt had a lot to do with that. So yummy with a tall glass of milk!<br />
Enjoy!</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-31438907576122121252013-07-04T12:02:00.000-04:002013-07-05T00:58:57.259-04:00An Apple a Day<div align="right">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbHCryW18k8nHYL-Nvgx93ZfNRwXbB-PqNABL47xJNdX0y5_ApQ-tmRokP5GAC5rss5A19j07gE6tiDUjYfZVaQpTGqgF6vS4Li-vbtfdXXJQbaybkwEzlLMiq58L2uOTx_pa4n4RaVo/s1600/DSC05714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbHCryW18k8nHYL-Nvgx93ZfNRwXbB-PqNABL47xJNdX0y5_ApQ-tmRokP5GAC5rss5A19j07gE6tiDUjYfZVaQpTGqgF6vS4Li-vbtfdXXJQbaybkwEzlLMiq58L2uOTx_pa4n4RaVo/s400/DSC05714.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
To counteract all the sugar I recently devoured, a healthy lunch was in order. To go along with my deep seeded love for green apples, Mr. and I thew together this yummy salad. By Mr <i>and</i> I, I mean I told him what to do and he made it. Details.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Kale Apple Chicken Salad</span></b><br />
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<b>Dressing</b><br />
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar<br />
1/3 cup olive oil<br />
1 1/2 tablespoon of dijon mustard<br />
1 1/2 teaspoon honey<br />
sea salt to taste<br />
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1 bunch kale<br />
2 green apples - cored and cubed<br />
1/2 cup dried cranberries<br />
3 ounces crumbled goat cheese (we just used the entire container)<br />
1 pound chicken - grilled and cubed<br />
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*As the chicken was grilling, we made the dressing. However, if you don't have the ingredients, you can always mix it with any dressing - I've used Newman's Lite Honey Mustard and Raspberry. Both so yummy!<br />
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This salad made enough for 4 helpings and still enough for another sitting.<br />
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*Thank you Domino Sugar for making an appearance in this picture. Your assistance in baking my desserts was most appreciated. Too bad I am a jerk and used you for everything you had.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVbGsQ9b87ghyDUYn6EU8AFJucHsLe3st_-sMUDdTzT0g-NRnkTV6OuXaPHq8_cDeMX0O4VzRjcm3zRp7cezmmHmgMw2c4ZubeKhfMK1-KspCjcC9EVFbaOqQep3SCPgniRL6oHZfgeA/s1600/DSC05717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVbGsQ9b87ghyDUYn6EU8AFJucHsLe3st_-sMUDdTzT0g-NRnkTV6OuXaPHq8_cDeMX0O4VzRjcm3zRp7cezmmHmgMw2c4ZubeKhfMK1-KspCjcC9EVFbaOqQep3SCPgniRL6oHZfgeA/s320/DSC05717.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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Try this recipe - you will not be disappointed!</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-22863298184784851552013-07-04T11:40:00.000-04:002013-07-05T00:59:07.164-04:00Gimme S'more of that Mess<div align="right">
First off, I have a love-hate relationship with s'mores. I love the idea of them, but it somehow ends up not only on my fingers, but in my hair, up my nose, and once in my ear. I don't know. Clearly I can't control my hands, and I guess I touch my face more often than I realize...But a summer without the graham cracker, mallow and chocolate mix doesn't quite seem like a summer. </div>
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To prevent the blinding marshmallow mess that usually ensues during the 4th day in July, I thought maybe I would make S'more bars to prevent any embarrassing facial messes. I adapted the recipe from Sally's Kitchen, and came up with a sticky mess. Somehow what I made, looked NOTHING like what she created.<br />
I felt like I am on <a href="http://www.pinterestfail.com/">Pinterest Fail</a> (a wildly amusing site that I wished I thought of!) Basically, it's where "good intentions come to die." With that motto, I wish I could squeeze the girl that writes this blog and call her my new best friend. I literally pee with laughter when I see the contributing pictures ....well maybe not literally pee, but I'm peeing on the inside. Just thinking about the hanging string ball or the "Bake a heart into a cupcake" makes me giggle all over again. </div>
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But I digress.....</div>
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This recipe did NOT in any way turn out the way I thought it would look....I guess that's mainly because I had measuring and don't fallow directions that well. However, they taste AMAZING!! The additional peanut butter chip was a great add-on. </div>
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S'More Cookie Bar</h2>
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1 stick of melted butter</div>
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3/4 cup brown sugar</div>
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1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla</div>
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1 large egg</div>
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1 cup flour</div>
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1 cup graham cracker crumbs</div>
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder</div>
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1 and 1/4 cup chocolate chips</div>
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a whole bag of mini marshmallows (maybe this was my downfall?)</div>
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half bag of peanut chips<br />
8oz of sweetened condensed milk</div>
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<ol class="instructions" id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Line 8x8 tray with parchment paper and spray. **This is important - I used a tray WAY to big, and ran out of mix......** This recipe makes enough for a family of four, or one person who has a serious addiction problem with sweet treats. </span></li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></li>
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<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Cream the butter and brown sugar together on medium speed. Beat for about 2 minutes until smooth and combined. Add the vanilla extract and egg, beating until combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl down as needed. Set aside.</span></li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></li>
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<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Toss the flour, graham cracker crumbs, and baking powder together until combined. With the mixer running on low, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined.</span></li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWw0WNaABqzTdeTGpAROAoXtimXYbdds_FTTjrH23IOzIMNvMypLit_QLHz0NLWjZHKDNhLZKePP8mW9olhyphenhyphen4fAJgahu-hmPqDsVid_02Hg9FR8Qe9B0Jdf7ucDH8WzNglD0hUxpnMPHY/s1600/DSC05726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWw0WNaABqzTdeTGpAROAoXtimXYbdds_FTTjrH23IOzIMNvMypLit_QLHz0NLWjZHKDNhLZKePP8mW9olhyphenhyphen4fAJgahu-hmPqDsVid_02Hg9FR8Qe9B0Jdf7ucDH8WzNglD0hUxpnMPHY/s320/DSC05726.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used a 9x13 pan because that's all I had at the shore - DON'T do that unless you make more mix</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNggOeti5s585kJZ8ZDjNE0Q1BLgHCV5JfcXtwRVFlQu2HeDphV1bwFRcLvblAmhnDI3l5NdDfMZnPk4yPkfHx1cJT2SeXd5EgiUWP0MTpKySWvVkfnru5Iv1NX5SS9a-La-9gVHm8IhM/s1600/DSC05728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNggOeti5s585kJZ8ZDjNE0Q1BLgHCV5JfcXtwRVFlQu2HeDphV1bwFRcLvblAmhnDI3l5NdDfMZnPk4yPkfHx1cJT2SeXd5EgiUWP0MTpKySWvVkfnru5Iv1NX5SS9a-La-9gVHm8IhM/s320/DSC05728.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Press 2/3 of the graham cookie dough into prepared pan. Cover the layer with the mini marshmallows. The sprinkle with chocolate chips. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: left;"> I covered half with just chocolate chips and the other half of the tray with peanut butter chips and chocolate chips.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Drizzle the entire can of sweetened condensed milk on top. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">*These taste amazing, but don't have the look appeal. But really, does it matter if it looks good? It doesn't look that fabulous once my teeth mash it up!*</span></div>
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Instead of neat little squares, they came out more like oblong misshapen messes - BUT they were fantastic. <br />
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-3353200750781880102013-07-02T22:12:00.001-04:002013-07-02T22:13:09.405-04:00Cayenne Margaritas and thoughts<div align="right">
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One of my favorite places to spend my summer days is my parents' shore house. There's something about salty air, the call of seagulls, and being able to catch your dinner right in the backyard that puts life into perspective. Every weekend, we leave our troubles in North Jersey, as we drive down the Parkway to Exit 58. Seven of us, my favorite seven people in the world spend each (or most) Friday nights through Sunday nights together. Between board games, fishing, eating (lots of eating), and drinking, memories are made.<br />
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This past weekend, A created a wickedly delicious margarita recipe. </div>
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She always has the best concoctions - so we left it up to her to make the mixings. </div>
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I've been on a super fruit kick, and before we left for the shore, A asked if I like grapefruit. I can say in all honesty, I find them irritating to eat because I can never open them like people say. Instead, I end up squirting myself in the eye. With that being said, A decided to create a fun mix to ring in Saturday night :)</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Cayenne Grapefruit Margaritas</span></b></div>
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<b>Tequila 12 oz</b></div>
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<b>grapefruit juice 22 oz</b></div>
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<b>tonic water 14 oz</b></div>
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<b>cayenne pepper 1/4 tsp</b></div>
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<b>This should make 6 drinks!</b></div>
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<b>(The original recipe she found called for simple syrup, but I'm not a fan - so she switched to Tonic water which is also no cal)</b></div>
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You can even see the pepper floating on the top. </div>
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It had just enough pop to open your sinuses but not too much that you sneezed (maybe that's just me) or cause you to gag. </div>
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You can either use grapefruit juice OR squeeze fresh grapefruit - which we tried but it was SUPER duper messy. </div>
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Try and let me know what you think!</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-90308823104818181252013-07-02T12:22:00.000-04:002013-07-02T12:54:54.999-04:00Last Summer's Conquest<div align="right">
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I find myself obsessed with Pinterest - so much in fact, I have only allowed myself the hour before bed to look through the countless pages of recipes, crafts, home decor because I could literally waste away my entire day. <br />
I saw a fantastic piece of furniture - a cable spool table that I HAD TO HAVE. It was my personal quest last summer. After researching how to obtain one without stealing it from a cable company, I posted my plea on Facebook, and a friend had in their garage, just taking up space :) They, too, had plans to make furniture out of it but life got in the way. She was happy to see it going to someone who would make it into a piece of love. Success! Who said social media was a waste of time? Not me! I picked it up, free of charge, and hauled it home.<br />
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It was a bit taller than I expected, but I didn't care - soon I would have my own spool table to organize some of my books.<br />
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We sanded the table top down, and I painted it white. </div>
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After painting, Mr. screwed on caster wheels on the bottom. Though I don't have any intentions of pushing it around, it added a little industrial flair (or made it easier if I wanted to push it around:) </div>
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We had our security dog sit watch, or sit and sleep. Wherever we told P NOT to sit, that's exactly where she planted herself. Crafty lil dog. </div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-right;">I hemmed and hawed over whether the table was too high. Before putting the spindles on, we put it in the spot in the dining room. It was actually above the chair - not really good for a side table, as it came up to your chest in the chair. But Mr. said it wouldn't be a big deal to disassemble it, and cut the middle planks. Well, I think if he realizes it would take three people to hold the sides together , I don't think he would have volunteered. </span><span style="text-align: -webkit-right;">He took apart the boards and cut off about six inches. The biggest challenge was putting it back together! After</span><span style="text-align: -webkit-right;"> a few grunts and curses, we were able to place the top back on. </span></div>
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We wheeled it in the dining room and Voolah! I couldn't fill it with books faster!</div>
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It looked better than I could imagine!</div>
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I placed my aloe plant (yes, it's still alive!), one of my favorite games- Mancala, and a picture of Little. An afternoon of sawing and painting, and I couldn't be happier! </div>
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<b>Total cost:</b> $16</div>
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We got the spool for free and used old white paint from trim.</div>
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At Home Depot, we bought 4 caster wheels for $12 and two 6 foot long dowels for $4.</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-48280749444393788472013-06-30T10:19:00.002-04:002013-06-30T12:53:32.598-04:00Before I Fall Book Review<div align="right">
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There are books that seem to take forever to read, and then there are those that you can't put down. That you lose sleep over. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver was one of those books. I started reading it this morning, and finished before dinner. I LOVED the concept. </div>
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I will start this off by saying I don't like to write reviews of the books I love. I never seem to capture the magic of the novel, and can't get across the beauty of words all the time. </div>
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This book is a cross between Mean Girls and Groundhog's Day (sorry for two film references but I adore both movies!). A girl and her pack of three friends rule the school and are relentlessly nasty to almost everyone. On their way home from a party, they crash the car and die. This isn't giving much of the book away because you learn this just by reading the back cover, and yet the main character, Sam, wakes up the next morning - again, on Cupid's Day. She wakes up six more times to relive the week and hopefully make sense of her life and make a difference. </div>
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Without giving much away, she definitely attempts to seek redemption and the end of the book had me sobbing, just like Fault in Our Stars (a book I read last summer and my family had to give me a pep talk about reading misery books while on vacation). I found myself rooting for her, hoping she would make certain choices, praying she would somehow make it out alive at the end of the week. </div>
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I loved it. I am sad it's over. I wished things could turn out differently in the end, but the book provides hope and if anything - sends across the message that anyone can be fixed. Anyone can make a difference. </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-32492734426710174972013-06-30T00:41:00.003-04:002013-06-30T00:44:33.280-04:00Thank you<div align="right">
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I am not someone who fears their birthday - in fact, I welcome it. I love the idea of getting together with family, I adore balloons, and deeply enjoy cake. ANY cake. </div>
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Yet every year, I have this irrational fear that my husband will forget. Forget my day. Days leading up to it, I literally am an annoying fly buzzing around, reminding him. Every year, he reassures me that he's not Last minute Larry with this. I don't really care about the gifts, but I just want effort, and forethought. </div>
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This year, we celebrated with my family the weekend before and mother made my favorite pie - Strawberry Dream. YUM. I can not say enough good things. I literally do the title - dream of this pie. Therefore, even though we were going out to a restaurant for my actual day, no homemade cake would be had - which I was completely fine with. However, when I arrived home after work on my day, there in the fridge laid not one, but two cakes for my birthday. Made by Mr. Let me state this: He is not a baker. He does not have sweet tooth, so the fact that he went through the trouble and then actually cleaned up the kitchen afterwards and before I got home was enough for me. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju12n1-lFYrdep6p-ng2iRN3LCnU9v-PSnqRyvRwXB0eeIv7NCM-4mCIytEs8V9nEO2N191Q4zlKHJKfQ0ll3OeV7EGaPKpEnRvwIpetTbObryk7Ynqinvf9bEqS94-YqBT9Rq-fwP7fM/s1600/IMG_5442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju12n1-lFYrdep6p-ng2iRN3LCnU9v-PSnqRyvRwXB0eeIv7NCM-4mCIytEs8V9nEO2N191Q4zlKHJKfQ0ll3OeV7EGaPKpEnRvwIpetTbObryk7Ynqinvf9bEqS94-YqBT9Rq-fwP7fM/s320/IMG_5442.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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(I had to post these because these Toms are my FAVORITE pair I own - given to me by A.) If you don't own a pair, these are the ones to get! They are crochet and lime green. They fit like a glove, and the best part about Toms - every pair you buy, a pair gets donated. You buy they give!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI46KS1VP0yNjhx11WGrbm2HMnN1B7xC46JFEE1wdFzlt0aN-BjCPV3zifBzcSNP6u0fpE4PS6T4hUXa2HimWyrVTko5C4EoM1b-Fy1oTgirpeYBTCxwrFp-akKGoDvUGQa9TG4x5EJdY/s1600/IMG_5444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI46KS1VP0yNjhx11WGrbm2HMnN1B7xC46JFEE1wdFzlt0aN-BjCPV3zifBzcSNP6u0fpE4PS6T4hUXa2HimWyrVTko5C4EoM1b-Fy1oTgirpeYBTCxwrFp-akKGoDvUGQa9TG4x5EJdY/s320/IMG_5444.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thank you B for always making me feel special. Thank you for remembering my day. Thank you for whipping up your version of Strawberry Dream pie, and then a WONDERFULLY delicious coconut cake. I loved it almost as much as I love you. </div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-36640566258396563772013-06-30T00:16:00.001-04:002013-07-02T11:53:30.347-04:00Let's Hear it for Organization!<div align="right">
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I'm not sure about you, but my system for organizing bills seems to be a little (or rather large) pile on the table, until I am ready to go through them and pay. When coupons come in the mail, or when I find recipes I like, they go in envelopes or piles. I just love my piles! But I guess this doesn't work for everyone :)</div>
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I decided that I needed to come up with some sort of filing system that wouldn't topple over if you happened to touch it. I bought a plain black filing box, and a bunch of hanging folders (multiple color). By jolly, I would do something cute!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv98p3x2iJyE8gr8-rLC3f1hvZp0lzTHBEMUO_9pXJA0tB3tMJ-Mzkf5X6WLaHEyi_0sfE95KTOP63G12E6Ed7NmXIN-3zlO-QEqyP61QiwzxHGPsTala6a53QLBSorjjObDAO6fEN79w/s1600/DSC05070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv98p3x2iJyE8gr8-rLC3f1hvZp0lzTHBEMUO_9pXJA0tB3tMJ-Mzkf5X6WLaHEyi_0sfE95KTOP63G12E6Ed7NmXIN-3zlO-QEqyP61QiwzxHGPsTala6a53QLBSorjjObDAO6fEN79w/s320/DSC05070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR-CbegLUpe4AJV5ASxkEms8fNgAMEhIZwb35rlzYUAR5XCZHRwFtiSHFdWsul1U0cZrcnwhwEBQsS63gfCWD9XLooZgtJhh0568j9UGxWOmjvD3PlDcp3nVJeQXuT3jdBcBHd6eNTne0/s1600/DSC05088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR-CbegLUpe4AJV5ASxkEms8fNgAMEhIZwb35rlzYUAR5XCZHRwFtiSHFdWsul1U0cZrcnwhwEBQsS63gfCWD9XLooZgtJhh0568j9UGxWOmjvD3PlDcp3nVJeQXuT3jdBcBHd6eNTne0/s320/DSC05088.JPG" width="320" /></a>I took a fancy fabric I had in the closet, and cut around the plain ole' container. Before I used my Mod Podge, I spray painted the whole container teal - and I LOVE this color!!! (so does my grass because there's a huge teal mark where I sprayed outside!) After it dried, I used Mod Podge to seal the fabric on it. </div>
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I wrote out different folders: Bills to Pay, Papers to File (in either our safe or box in basement), Recipes to Try (and if I like it - it goes in cookbook or if not - gar-bage), Crafts to Make, Date Night, Tax Forms (I am getting MUCH better about our taxes and now save all our receipts ), Blog Stuff, and Coupons. </div>
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Now when mail comes in that I deem important, it goes right in the filing system. As the month goes on, and it's time to pay the bills, I also go through the other folders (coupons to see what expired and so on). </div>
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I try to make the recipes I cut out each month so I can make room for new ones. </div>
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So far, this system has worked! I absolutely love the colors and now if I leave it out by accident, it's not ugly!!</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-43847610422554646002013-06-29T23:51:00.000-04:002013-06-29T23:51:57.189-04:00A Jolly Good Week!<div align="right">
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Here's to a Summer Filled with Awesome! Now, I realize that really doesn't make sense but I like the saying :) </div>
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After one week of Little being off of summer, and me on Day 4 of Summer break - we already accomplished three popsicle activities!</div>
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One of my most favorite purchases after the holidays was a Martha Stewart chalkboard. The board has a wonderful border already printed on, but it's not too easy to write and erase. The cuteness factor makes up for the moments of frustrations! </div>
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After we pick a few activties for the week off of the twine line of popsicles, we stick them on the board with clothespins. After we accomplish the task, we check it off and initial the date. </div>
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This week's Checked list: </div>
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Summer pedicure</div>
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Drive In Theater</div>
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See a baseball game</div>
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Eat Breakfast for Dinner</div>
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I just love how it's turning out!</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-31212246652907724462013-06-28T18:55:00.002-04:002013-06-29T23:52:12.449-04:00Melt Into Summer<div align="right">
Each summer starts out the same way(a paraphrase of multiple conversations leading up to the end of school): </div>
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Me: What do you guys hope to do this summer?</div>
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Mr: I don't know.</div>
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Little(now Big<i>ger): </i>Something sports related.</div>
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Then I rattle off about 30 things I hope to get'er done, but then after 60 days of sun, totally forget about. If only I had a LIST (yes. because I love my lists). Wait - I make lists, oodles and oodles of lists, but then I lose them! This laundry list needed to be out in the open if I wanted to actually finish everything I wanted. </div>
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Last week, we sat down as a family and created activities to accomplish this summer. Instead of focusing only on trips which cost moolah, we also thought of things to do that fall into: Free Outdoor, Free Indoor, Crafty, and Food Related.</div>
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During my prep periods this last week of work, I racked my little brain on how to display our Summer Bucket List. With over 50 activities planned (some free and some a little cash), I wanted to figure out a way to put it out there where we will be reminded to DO it. <br />
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As temperatures in my classroom soared above 95 degrees, some of my students complained they actually felt their skin melting(gross image). Fantastic! Bingo! That was it! I cut out over 70 popsicles out of construction paper, and in my neatest teacher handwriting, wrote down the activities that I hoped we could accomplish throughout the summer. </div>
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Before going home, I stopped at Michaels to pick up teeny tiny clothes pins to hang the popsicles where we can see them. After showing Mr. the handful of popsicles, I enlisted him to help me hang the twine between the windows, and starting pinning them for display. I couldn't help but squeal as I watched him pin them! It was actually what I had hoped for! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIuD3hGWcff58eyrhAFZHNw_M5by6c0Mho4NSc8gkFcEMSMbPfzZkcR9pePY-AGH6veo4U4ZhobGHAvPJlSItDGYLFPIUDT-DKGwZzPT5-TU00a_GO3xp0DftrQ0NUwK3bw-8w4Bt7AM/s1600/popsicle4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIuD3hGWcff58eyrhAFZHNw_M5by6c0Mho4NSc8gkFcEMSMbPfzZkcR9pePY-AGH6veo4U4ZhobGHAvPJlSItDGYLFPIUDT-DKGwZzPT5-TU00a_GO3xp0DftrQ0NUwK3bw-8w4Bt7AM/s320/popsicle4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I just love the multiple colors! Here are some of the popsicles listed: Have an Unbirthday party (Little's birthday is in December so he never gets an outdoor event!), Hang with family, Meadowlands Flea Market, Mini golf, and Video Game day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcteHV7HguTA3jPq1lgKdxZKnsEH4nQUVCsU0LpwQL6Vae_jDn-7yAyT7SK0twN7mYM66VWoxxc0Lmm2vuJBx4emHaJvsJJQq-GP7MIGkPPlVBtTfoyeuzNZlQC6QwRQLZ98CNdN_7SM/s1600/popsicle3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcteHV7HguTA3jPq1lgKdxZKnsEH4nQUVCsU0LpwQL6Vae_jDn-7yAyT7SK0twN7mYM66VWoxxc0Lmm2vuJBx4emHaJvsJJQq-GP7MIGkPPlVBtTfoyeuzNZlQC6QwRQLZ98CNdN_7SM/s320/popsicle3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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At the start of the week, we will pick a few activities we hope to accomplish that week :) Then move them to the chalkboard leaning against the wall on the cupboard. After achieving each one, we check it off and write the date! Mr. had a great idea to cut the edge so it looks like someone took a bite out of it :) </div>
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We hung this up before I was done with school, but our official "Summer Bucket List" won't take place till I am out! Wahoo! </div>
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What would you add to your summer bucket list?</div>
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Kara Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676001198835605019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7746127354701629886.post-46264580207129822262013-03-25T14:03:00.000-04:002013-06-29T23:52:29.366-04:00Luck of the IrishCome the month of March, I like to buy stock in green food coloring -and soon everything I ingest is a greenish hue. I think it's fabulous, Mr. thinks it's odd. But I look past this, and do what I want!<br />
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I draw the line at coloring cabbage and meats. I just can't do it. But I can trade my coloring for an irish banquet. St. Patrick's Day (March 17) is an annual feast day which celebrates St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is a day celebrated with parades, the wearing of green, and of course, beer. It's also popular with many people because it takes place just a few days before the first day of spring.<br />
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Make this St. Paddy's Day memorable with these Irish-inspired recipes. And remember, if you're lucky enough to be Irish, you're lucky enough! 'Beannachtam na Feile Padraig!'<br />
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This is what we had last week:<br />
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Sweet Irish Whiskey Glazed Corned Beef<br />
Servings: 4 - 6 Prep Time: 15 min. Cook Time: 9 hours on low<br />
This corned beef cooks all day in the slow cooker. Just broil the corned beef to make the sweet Whiskey glaze (we used bourbon whiskey) a few minutes before serving it up for your St. Patrick's Day Supper.<br />
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DIRECTIONS<br />
• 3 lb corned beef brisket<br />
• 1 lb red potatoes<br />
• 1/2 lb carrots<br />
• 1 bottle(s) beer<br />
• 1/4 cup(s) orange marmalade<br />
• 2 tbsp bourbon<br />
• 1 tbsp ketchup, low sod.<br />
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar<br />
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1. Place red potatoes, carrots (cut in 2 inch pieces), and 1 beer (we used Sam Adams lager) in a slow cooker. Place trimmed corned beef on top. Most corned beef comes with a seasoning packet. If it does, add the seasoning packet to the slow cooker. Cook for 8-9 hours on low (4-5 on high).<br />
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2. Remove corned beef from slow cooker. Whisk together bourbon, ketchup, marmalade and vinegar. Brush over corned beef. Broil beef about 6 inches from heat for 5 - 6 minutes or until it caramelizes.<br />
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3. Thinly slice corned beef against grain and serve with carrots and potatoes (quartered).<br />
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Second Beef Recipe<br />
Muenster and Corned Beef Press<br />
Servings: 2 Prep Time: 10 min. Cook Time: 20 min.<br />
We usually buy deli corned beef for these sandwiches but it is also a great way to use up your corned beef dinner leftovers.<br />
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INGREDIENTS<br />
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DIRECTIONS<br />
• 1 head cabbage (green), thinly sliced<br />
• 1 cup(s) chicken broth, low sodium<br />
• 4 slice(s) rye bread<br />
• 1 tbsp butter, with salt<br />
• 1 tbsp whole grain mustard<br />
• 4 oz deli corned beef, cooked<br />
• 2 slice(s) muenster cheese<br />
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1. Combine cabbage and chicken broth in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Let simmer and cover for 20 minutes or until tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and season with s&p.<br />
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2. Spread butter on four slices of rye bread. Place buttered side down and spread dijon mustard on each slice. Top two slices with corned beef, cabbage and a slice of cheese. Top with remaining two bread slices.<br />
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3. Cook on a heated panini press (or in a grill pan with a heavy pot on top) for 4 - 6 minutes or until crispy and cheese is melted.<br />
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