tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24324894645033202392024-03-10T14:13:18.386-05:00Roots of SimplicityAiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.comBlogger355125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-54780555086810241662015-05-03T18:54:00.001-05:002015-05-03T18:56:29.876-05:00Living Below the Line: How Do People Get Enough?Life balance is still a work in progress for me. I'm still looking for a way to structure my time at home more productively. If I can be more disciplined in accomplishing what I need to do at home first, then I can enjoy experimenting in the kitchen more without regret. While I have taken a break from posting here, I am actively sharing recipes at my other blog, <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Swirls and Spice</a>.<br />
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Keeping things simple and affordable have remained important values for our family. Last week, though, I was challenged to put myself in the shoes of those who have to live on even less. Have you heard of the <a href="https://www.livebelowtheline.com/ca/challenge" target="_blank">Live Below the Line Challenge</a>? In keeping with the spirit of the challenge, I developed a <a href="http://wp.me/p2R1Vc-1mW" target="_blank">Mexican Frittata recipe</a>. Would you care for a slice?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgcNSgD1-ROOQ30cl5NiBRMxUCkIJ3zwH3457oDhgzGdd87n0_DVhLq0Cj7-O8BEyyIuHQDDDlb4wlMAdRmW1q2cLQQok0NAKP2jZd0PSTL52VcOn7bai-BGXyvq8VEdEVtyEgCpsZxA/s1600/Frittata-plate-square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgcNSgD1-ROOQ30cl5NiBRMxUCkIJ3zwH3457oDhgzGdd87n0_DVhLq0Cj7-O8BEyyIuHQDDDlb4wlMAdRmW1q2cLQQok0NAKP2jZd0PSTL52VcOn7bai-BGXyvq8VEdEVtyEgCpsZxA/s1600/Frittata-plate-square.jpg" height="319" width="320" /></a></div>
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The cost came in at just under $1.00 per serving, which I think is an excellent value, considering how nutrient dense the frittata is. And it was delicious too! <br />
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And yet if I was allotted just $1.75 per person per day, that would
leave only $0.75 left for two more meals. This would limit our options
to things like a peanut butter sandwich for lunch ($0.50) and oatmeal
for breakfast ($0.25). Adding a banana for some fresh fruit ($0.30)
would put me over budget. Even with the fruit, the food would offer
only 915 calories for the day, about half the amount needed for a
school-age child or adult.<br />
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So how do people with limited resources manage to feed their families? Food banks, it seems, are part of the answer in Canada and the U.S. Because try as I might, I can't see how to nourish my family of six on $10.50 CDN a day. Could you do it?Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-80500170151351883292014-11-22T09:57:00.000-06:002014-11-22T09:57:34.171-06:00Homemade with Love: 14 Holiday Gift Ideas for the Family to MakeWhat if instead of rushing out the door to shop on Black Friday, more families stayed home and made some gifts and stocking stuffers for each other by hand? Here are some lovely possibilities that just might help your budget and help your family slow down and prepare to celebrate what truly matters.<br />
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2014/11/frozen-winter-sparkle-hair-clips.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Frozen Winter Sparkle Hair Clips</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTImES71ADrCiyHMeA6G3QK2QSuPBELI1aKQ-DRF73XQJOEOMibXvDHMyVD888rOslBqsCWjivDS7WGhWV0xby_0x8N0Ao9yMVCHAknQ9WpKFw1y-Eppv-QIz3NJ4A_02WHb_UikoZSO8/s1600/DSCN0837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTImES71ADrCiyHMeA6G3QK2QSuPBELI1aKQ-DRF73XQJOEOMibXvDHMyVD888rOslBqsCWjivDS7WGhWV0xby_0x8N0Ao9yMVCHAknQ9WpKFw1y-Eppv-QIz3NJ4A_02WHb_UikoZSO8/s1600/DSCN0837.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/08/diy-pick-up-sticks-game-colored.html" target="_blank">DIY Pick Up Sticks Game</a> (Made from Chopsticks)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSoP1tw6GCgdcQPNhgBCGU1jShyvP4LwJdEWzB7I-sjCPtsUOI-evJ1QUmKbUKnbqI1bpcBMy5C42H8_zRUSCfUJzmBzXB-0KvvNbQPWT_sPi_dq5tuwebiribsvNxMGjHVkauUedP4M/s1600/Star+String+Art+Kits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSoP1tw6GCgdcQPNhgBCGU1jShyvP4LwJdEWzB7I-sjCPtsUOI-evJ1QUmKbUKnbqI1bpcBMy5C42H8_zRUSCfUJzmBzXB-0KvvNbQPWT_sPi_dq5tuwebiribsvNxMGjHVkauUedP4M/s1600/Star+String+Art+Kits.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2013/12/homemade-string-art-kit-great-stocking.html" target="_blank">Homemade String Art Kit</a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2013/05/diy-memory-stone-pen-holder-for-fathers.html" target="_blank">Memory Stone Pen Holder</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheylO34EOWpQ6ER-rT6br6vmDO_BrgXjud0w7Q4g8G950Ds2D6vk3ylZv9vQNakXWHna2Iy15haHkGIfmRDkzkDnf-KtdCq8gs2EaKmO222w2l4I8GYNB94v1B4UqHvhsaL1RxdJLEiCc/s1600/pocket-warmer-in-hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheylO34EOWpQ6ER-rT6br6vmDO_BrgXjud0w7Q4g8G950Ds2D6vk3ylZv9vQNakXWHna2Iy15haHkGIfmRDkzkDnf-KtdCq8gs2EaKmO222w2l4I8GYNB94v1B4UqHvhsaL1RxdJLEiCc/s1600/pocket-warmer-in-hand.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2012/10/batik-style-pocket-warmers.html" target="_blank">Batik-Style Pocket Warmers</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-QLORfYtIeNdj13ILcdmwhr-Z0uuWqn6GGuaXS0gbXDahZFU_t6Rz3WuwTPFE6q-GQv4ByB9oLND0pOsDllr9OtVs07o9yjXW7ULZnS2i_cWhrWIcko2XdPoTwMm6C_FHNUBPRTGmas/s1600/plinko-game.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-QLORfYtIeNdj13ILcdmwhr-Z0uuWqn6GGuaXS0gbXDahZFU_t6Rz3WuwTPFE6q-GQv4ByB9oLND0pOsDllr9OtVs07o9yjXW7ULZnS2i_cWhrWIcko2XdPoTwMm6C_FHNUBPRTGmas/s1600/plinko-game.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2012/06/cardboard-mini-plinko-carnival-game.html" target="_blank">Cardboard Mini Plinko Game</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbDcVVEJHPX5yICuygAQpOG5YQJ1m0__Zyhgm9nSbVZeTYuyWsgCpBQJUTIYTV5i8FtFnmPkiek-fBgNYaTGGovQY6GPm11a8POsQIYKjNgMgK9RZkuCeaLoQZAyMghJed15uCfKnCuw/s1600/travel-bingo-in-hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbDcVVEJHPX5yICuygAQpOG5YQJ1m0__Zyhgm9nSbVZeTYuyWsgCpBQJUTIYTV5i8FtFnmPkiek-fBgNYaTGGovQY6GPm11a8POsQIYKjNgMgK9RZkuCeaLoQZAyMghJed15uCfKnCuw/s1600/travel-bingo-in-hands.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2012/05/easy-felt-magnets-for-travel-bingo-and.html" target="_blank">Easy Felt Magnets</a> (for Travel Bingo)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgip7QMqcOazfWMYRfy097zrFtxR_xINfv-J9KxMGnnU9mfGzu-yZS9gYhYngEDa9fbYJgUCN2BfqWpVeK3-81mDZE4mKvubMaTJniPF03QTXkGacQ_9s1dTJqgf01lV7OVK99iT66w_I0/s1600/baby-mitts-off.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgip7QMqcOazfWMYRfy097zrFtxR_xINfv-J9KxMGnnU9mfGzu-yZS9gYhYngEDa9fbYJgUCN2BfqWpVeK3-81mDZE4mKvubMaTJniPF03QTXkGacQ_9s1dTJqgf01lV7OVK99iT66w_I0/s1600/baby-mitts-off.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2012/03/homemade-baby-mitts.html" target="_blank">Homemade Baby Mitts</a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/12/recent-christmas-crafts-for-moms-and.html" target="_blank">Homemade Soup and Cookie Mixes</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpcMdkFnjg1dD9Vh2hiF_tcFivzo_man2QtTBOu62AhFKJIixNN7rTPd9tD_Han76N8WcUM5EMroLBw4kzKWJuWzdML1duyvtx8hTzm0xjx55x2qlIn3crYVh4b0E0synDSBZ_gv7tvo/s1600/granolajar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpcMdkFnjg1dD9Vh2hiF_tcFivzo_man2QtTBOu62AhFKJIixNN7rTPd9tD_Han76N8WcUM5EMroLBw4kzKWJuWzdML1duyvtx8hTzm0xjx55x2qlIn3crYVh4b0E0synDSBZ_gv7tvo/s1600/granolajar.jpg" height="320" width="236" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/12/recent-christmas-crafts-for-moms-and.html" target="_blank">Homemade Pumpkin Granola</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijmr84Q_bB5gDgr51SJ1FdkKbcZleeA4KtmkXvppKXYNMM5xSfHCa64sSiQfGz3v5aByosw-KKuwOw7jOu-1Z-hiOkZA99VLa7psav9MQmUH8dWOZj3dwNlHswqJw3mC2tOTD3izAyXZA/s1600/closerfrisbee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijmr84Q_bB5gDgr51SJ1FdkKbcZleeA4KtmkXvppKXYNMM5xSfHCa64sSiQfGz3v5aByosw-KKuwOw7jOu-1Z-hiOkZA99VLa7psav9MQmUH8dWOZj3dwNlHswqJw3mC2tOTD3izAyXZA/s1600/closerfrisbee.jpg" height="236" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/01/winter-activity-week-snowflake-flying.html" target="_blank">Snowflake Flying Disks </a></div>
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<a href="http://ots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2009/11/craft-of-week-ribbon-wrapped-ring-toss.html" target="_blank">Ribbon Wrapped Ring Toss Game</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelMi0j2Adiv8rBSWmpV8hQN0Rlw29kwtJEfLuz8WoZumM_inlxLCKUoT4mtIVR4ziqSWfBsFrtMus1EioZpa1u7_dyA04MzSih7AKeDo4fIo1EvRR1_CSPl0VgNmNbUomGUauUXVppNM/s1600/geoboard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelMi0j2Adiv8rBSWmpV8hQN0Rlw29kwtJEfLuz8WoZumM_inlxLCKUoT4mtIVR4ziqSWfBsFrtMus1EioZpa1u7_dyA04MzSih7AKeDo4fIo1EvRR1_CSPl0VgNmNbUomGUauUXVppNM/s1600/geoboard.JPG" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2010/05/craft-of-week-scrap-wood-geoboard.html" target="_blank">Scrap Wood Geoboard</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2013/12/stacked-button-christmas-tree-ornaments.html" target="_blank">Stacked Button Christmas Tree Ornaments </a></div>
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<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-61021723018176009132014-11-21T14:07:00.001-06:002014-11-21T21:05:11.678-06:00Frozen Winter Sparkle Hair Clips<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3Blp1X0YLnPC9B9YFaKh5gsZKS6DJVug8NGoRZZ1gD3Kh15yjfbaqIsUu-jfq5wRLkfpQpt5JwLiD8p1figObdpY_q-dO3wM3DSZbKwZD1BqxWNc0bcJfOEsa7TC4-MILfh_jUckH0U/s1600/Frozen-Clips2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3Blp1X0YLnPC9B9YFaKh5gsZKS6DJVug8NGoRZZ1gD3Kh15yjfbaqIsUu-jfq5wRLkfpQpt5JwLiD8p1figObdpY_q-dO3wM3DSZbKwZD1BqxWNc0bcJfOEsa7TC4-MILfh_jUckH0U/s1600/Frozen-Clips2.jpg" height="400" width="335" /></a></div>
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For any girl who loves the movie, Frozen, these sparkling blue hair clips are sure to bring a smile of delight. We made these as part of a Frozen-themed birthday party gift for a friend. I can't wait to see her reaction to this homemade gift!<br />
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These Frozen Winter Sparkle Hair Clips would make great stocking stuffers for girls too!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtawYKLnSv8HFFXvWWGuqCKE4bR7HaeVNGAnwXFwDR5zMVVSqSPNEpBfa6Hu-sF1K0Q4pAHL8CCbSHhxR0iutlA_9r62e2zoU_4eFq4_-ubnAATUNPf1_sMmBa09Eez7lOQk63tDjDFk/s1600/sparkle-clips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtawYKLnSv8HFFXvWWGuqCKE4bR7HaeVNGAnwXFwDR5zMVVSqSPNEpBfa6Hu-sF1K0Q4pAHL8CCbSHhxR0iutlA_9r62e2zoU_4eFq4_-ubnAATUNPf1_sMmBa09Eez7lOQk63tDjDFk/s1600/sparkle-clips.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Materials Needed:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Metal Hair Barrettes</li>
<li>Silver Stretch Cording</li>
<li>Blue Sparkle Ribbon</li>
<li>Hot Glue</li>
</ul>
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
<ol>
<li> Cut sparkle ribbon long enough to cover the metal barrettes, with enough extra to wrap under each end.</li>
<li>Lay the ribbon on the barrette and wrap the silver cording around both the ribbon and the barrette. Make sure the clip is open and the cording does not interfere with the clasp mechanism.</li>
<li>Tie the ends of the cording and trim. Hot glue the ends of the ribbon over the tied cording, which should be hidden on the underside.</li>
</ol>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm sharing this project at <a href="http://lovelovething.com/pecan-pie-bacon-crust-gluten-free-pumpkin-pie/" target="_blank">Savoring Saturdays</a> this week. </span></i></div>
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Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-77411128658999628032014-08-11T11:35:00.001-05:002014-08-11T11:41:27.202-05:00Recycled Egg Carton Rocket Pods<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMa8UNjEK2q4Sx2WiNBtQNpJDjn8fRsEPOhJvyEMxRRvp1wSEHVe_i1gRDB-dFF8o5qRXAZLH6_Q41lHBLDtEx4bAL77zTkK632SYpqk15KQyxBMQBkuVaPDHQSiq4L3BcZlyy1cvTsGQ/s1600/rocket-pods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMa8UNjEK2q4Sx2WiNBtQNpJDjn8fRsEPOhJvyEMxRRvp1wSEHVe_i1gRDB-dFF8o5qRXAZLH6_Q41lHBLDtEx4bAL77zTkK632SYpqk15KQyxBMQBkuVaPDHQSiq4L3BcZlyy1cvTsGQ/s1600/rocket-pods.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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When I came across a list of <a href="http://www.whatdowedoallday.com/2014/01/indoor-ball-games-kids.html" target="_blank">20 indoor ball games</a>, I was excited to try them. One problem though--no ping pong balls. So we improvised instead. I cut egg cartons apart and made "rocket pods" using rubber bands (hair elastics, actually). Then we used more elastics to make a <a href="http://allfortheboys.com/home/2013/11/26/diy-paper-snowball-launcher.html" target="_blank">cardboard tube launcher</a>.<br />
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It had been a while since I'd done a crafty project outside the kitchen, and I think I had as much fun (or possibly more) with this toy as anyone! The rocket pods reminded me of the escape shuttles I had seen recently in the movie <i>Guardians of the Galaxy</i>. My kids may not be quite ready to see the film yet, but we can still have some space-age fun together!<br />
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<b>Materials Used:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Egg cartons, made of cardboard or styrofoam</li>
<li>Small rubber bands or hair elastics</li>
<li>Plastic grocery bags (for filling)</li>
<li>Cardboard tubes of different diameters (from paper towel and plastic wrap rolls)</li>
<li>2 brass fasteners</li>
<li>Aluminum foil, optional</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<ol>
<li>Cut apart egg cartons to form cups. Stuff two cups with the plastic from half of a grocery bag. Secure the halves together with two rubber bands.</li>
<li>To make the launcher, poke holes across from each other in one end of each cardboard tube. Put the brass fasteners in the holes of the larger tube. Thread a rubber band though each hole in the smaller tube and form a secure loop. Put the samller tube inside the larger tube and attach rubber band loops to the fasteners.</li>
<li>To decorate the outer tube with silver foil, wrap with foil and secure with three rubber bands.</li>
<li>To launch rocket pods, pull the inner tube back to stretch the rubber bands. Balance a rocket pod on the other end, aim the launcher, and let go of the inner tube "trigger."</li>
</ol>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><i>I like to share ideas <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></span></div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-47811659871409093062014-08-08T17:12:00.003-05:002014-08-08T17:28:12.301-05:00Lessons from a 6,000-Mile-Long Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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New discoveries awaited us on our 6,000 mile road trip last month. Our trip covered the states of North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, and a brief jaunt to Ontario (to sign real estate papers). We certainly experienced America afresh, since we had become accustomed to the flatter landscape and fewer options where we live in Saskatchewan.<br />
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After crossing the border into North Dakota, the kids loved mixing their own soft drinks with the new custom soda machines at restaurants. Peach Sprite was their top pick. We also discovered how challenging it can be to find accommodations for a family of six. The mid-range motels often worked best for us because we could get a suite for less than the cost of two rooms. Maybe some day we will take on the challenge of camping, but our childhood memories tell us to proceed with caution.<br />
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As we made our way across the midwest, we enjoyed seeing some of the World Cup soccer matches. I was impressed to encounter so many soccer fans in Columbus, Ohio. Unfortunately it was difficult to find radio broadcasts of this worldwide sports phenomenon when we were in the minivan (which was a lot). Do Americans really love baseball so much? I guess I was oblivious.<br />
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<b>Takeaway #1: Carry Protein</b><br />
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One practical thing that worked well for us was buying high-quality meat jerky as a protein snack on the road. It helped us make it beyond the next highway exit when we wanted more options for where to stop and eat. Being the exotic meat aficionado that he is, my husband bought kangaroo, ostrich, bison, and venison jerkies. No Slim Jims for us.<br />
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<b>Takeaway #2: Think Inside the Box</b><br />
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While searching a big box store for a travel container for baby wipes, I was astonished to find that a zippered case travel wipe pack cost nearly four dollars ($3.77 I believe it was)! Nope, not gonna do that. But I needed a container that would find in my purse--without robbing me of so much cash. It took time to search and ponder what to do, but I settled on a refillable green plastic soap case that cost less than a dollar. It served us well throughout the trip!<br />
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<b>Takeaway #3: State Parks are Worth Exploring</b><br />
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En route to my parents in Oklahoma, we thought it would be fun to stop at one of Missouri's caves. We avoided the steeper prices at the caves you see advertised on billboards. Instead, we had a wonderful tour of Fisher's Cave, which was less flashy and more scientific. Just what we wanted. As an added bonus, the motel at Meramac State Park offered us a more affordable (spartan) room that slept six. Getting off the interstate a few miles was definitely worth it for us.<br />
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In Oklahoma, we visited a park I remembered enjoying as a girl with my parents, Red Rock Canyon. Even my two-year-old now has memories of our adventures hiking and swimming there. I am so glad we went, and thankful that the weather was not too hot to consider spending time outdoors.<br />
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<b>Upon Reflection</b><br />
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We were thankful to connect with family and friends we had not been able to visit in three years, and many got to meet our youngest daughter for the first time. What's more, we celebrated a golden wedding anniversary for my parents-in-law and the wedding of our oldest niece. It was an important trip, but not a vacation per se.<br />
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My husband and I returned to Canada feeling like we needed to get away more often. Even if it's just to the nearest larger city in our our province. Refreshment needs to happen. We got a taste of it at <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2014/05/3-reason-why-family-camp-was-just-what.html" target="_blank">family camp</a> in May, which was helpful. But we are nearing the end of summer wishing for more.<br />
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<i><b>What do you consider to be the difference between a trip and a vacation for you? </b></i><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">This post may be linked <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></i></div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-30633195648194133372014-05-22T16:15:00.001-05:002014-05-22T16:15:43.971-05:0015 Favorite Summer Picnic Dishes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Got any picnic plans? We had our long weekend at family camp, but I know that many of you in the States are gearing up for summer and school getting out soon. Here are three recipes to make when you are ready to enjoy some fresh food outdoors: <br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/04/06/creamy-sweet-pea-salad-recipe/" target="_blank"><b>Creamy Sweet Pea Salad</b></a> - Always a favorite!</li>
<li><b><a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/05/20/tapas-style-deviled-eggs/" target="_blank">Tapas-Style Deviled Eggs</a></b> - These eggs are deliciously different!</li>
<li><a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/05/02/mango-lemon-bars-with-coconut-crust/" target="_blank"><b>Mango Lemon Bars</b></a> - Delightful <i>and</i> healthy <i>and</i> <b>gluten-free</b>!</li>
</ul>
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Looking for more ideas? There are <b>12 more</b> of my <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/05/22/15-favorite-picnic-dishes-a-summer-recipe-roundup/" target="_blank">favorite picnic dishes</a> featured at <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Swirls and Spice</a> this week!Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-59841018557377503762014-05-20T16:35:00.001-05:002014-05-22T09:50:57.727-05:003 Reasons Why Family Camp Was Just What We Needed I have good memories of going off to summer camp as a kid. But my own family hadn't had a chance to go away to a camp until this past weekend. And I'm so glad we went. Here are three reasons why.<br />
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<b>1. The Fresh Air and Scenery</b><br />
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Where we live the land
is flat and not particularly interesting. There are no lakes, rivers,
or ponds in our community, nor are there many flowers around, even after
all the snow melts. So it was lovely to enjoy the view at the water's
edge and see the green hills of the Qu'Appelle Valley on our way there
and back. I spent many hours roaming the grounds with my youngest
daughter and skipping rocks at the shoreline of the lake while my other
children explored and collected rocks and shells.<br />
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<b>2. The Food</b><br />
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I was unsure what to expect from the dining hall. Memories of camp food from my childhood did not inspire me to expect much. However, the volunteers at our camp made some fantastic meals and evening snacks for us. The highlight was fresh donuts. Move over Tim Horton's. Eunice makes some of the best in the country!<br />
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<b>3. The Freedom!</b><br />
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The best feature for me and my
husband was that our kids were not always with us. Not only that, I was
free from my household responsibilities like preparing meals and
doing laundry, while my husband was able to leave his job
responsibilities at the office for the whole long weekend. So we
relished the opportunities to listen to Bible teaching twice a day while
our children were engaged elsewhere in the children's program. And
there were other moments to sit and talk when our kids were busy playing
and running around the campground. We came back truly refreshed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINu2FBoloj01s4Wp_JkAZbmPXfSGtDu18NZjecUVQ4732CZYntM67EJufVmfkx0VK14FdVQPqH-giPwPsY_UiiOSIemaDq9TKIs9aG-7fc0Gt-yBY7bI8ieRU4deW4lm-lus3C8vc8XA/s1600/A-holding-soccer-ball.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINu2FBoloj01s4Wp_JkAZbmPXfSGtDu18NZjecUVQ4732CZYntM67EJufVmfkx0VK14FdVQPqH-giPwPsY_UiiOSIemaDq9TKIs9aG-7fc0Gt-yBY7bI8ieRU4deW4lm-lus3C8vc8XA/s1600/A-holding-soccer-ball.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i><b>What are your summer camp memories?</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Do you have a favorite spot you like to go for getaways?</b></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #93c47d; font-size: x-small;">I'm sharing this at the <a href="http://www.blessedlearners.com/pintastic-pinteresting-party-21/" target="_blank">Pintastic Pinteresting Party</a> and <a href="http://gospelhomemaking.com/thrive-at-home-thursday-link-up-5-22-2014/" target="_blank">Thrive at Home Thursdays</a>.</span></div>
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<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-10716150506254329022014-04-17T10:25:00.000-05:002014-04-17T10:29:28.131-05:003 Recipes Featuring Blueberries to Eat, Drink, and Celebrate!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmny7OLhPFwlN0CpbP8-OEzA6Jc3U8qjdC8Boh4maxST_bG4EPP-DdFxknm-gO4vizqJC-y7yzlNq8O0JYs7AV_qvP7seWDtLfzWSTR8DcBzWlmqUf5OdrjQzydsPPFPuDpcOBY_6eBX8/s1600/bluberry-toast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmny7OLhPFwlN0CpbP8-OEzA6Jc3U8qjdC8Boh4maxST_bG4EPP-DdFxknm-gO4vizqJC-y7yzlNq8O0JYs7AV_qvP7seWDtLfzWSTR8DcBzWlmqUf5OdrjQzydsPPFPuDpcOBY_6eBX8/s1600/bluberry-toast.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Blueberries might be the secret to my grandfathers' long lives. And I've had the privilege of picking wild blueberries with one of my grandpas, who is now 97 years old, when I was young. I think I might have even used a tin pail like in the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0670175919/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0670175919&linkCode=as2&tag=rootsofs-20">Blueberries for Sal</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=rootsofs-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0670175919" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />. Or perhaps I used an empty ice cream bucket. In any case, the fresh berries were marvelous!<br />
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Here are three delicious recipes that feature blueberries, to inspire you to indulge in some blue goodness this weekend:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKB4ttrVygs0KEJY78m85n3WHsv2CDeEIbksHNCFxKmvCNEZKIIzcLfYO95ygRajGOM09JYrIBT76yMy8pD7VefgAlvrGabPF2xZdD3mRGkNVFHvhOak8QGkHCUHnpM_WxRuE8OvHGJQ/s1600/clafoutis-title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKB4ttrVygs0KEJY78m85n3WHsv2CDeEIbksHNCFxKmvCNEZKIIzcLfYO95ygRajGOM09JYrIBT76yMy8pD7VefgAlvrGabPF2xZdD3mRGkNVFHvhOak8QGkHCUHnpM_WxRuE8OvHGJQ/s1600/clafoutis-title.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/04/15/blueberry-peach-clafoutis-recipe/" target="_blank">Blueberry Peach Clafoutis - Grain Free & Dairy Free </a></div>
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@ Swirls and Spice</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1OvWgEGmbSprFh3Ao5xPdmrBcW7sJbWwav5I-usJAjV0_LIlns_sabucrt7cJ7i5SFfl7Qfby0WFrjmAIuTDS-YTDq5U2KHtNhq9uzrKdIYOVuZku_8uUrfSAsQ5jIVg-aBlss0uW58/s1600/bleupunch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1OvWgEGmbSprFh3Ao5xPdmrBcW7sJbWwav5I-usJAjV0_LIlns_sabucrt7cJ7i5SFfl7Qfby0WFrjmAIuTDS-YTDq5U2KHtNhq9uzrKdIYOVuZku_8uUrfSAsQ5jIVg-aBlss0uW58/s1600/bleupunch.JPG" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2009/07/recipe-for-sparkling-blueberry.html" target="_blank">Sparkling Blueberry Punch</a></div>
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@ Roots of Simplicity</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh6F83bduWQXqKCoq98XE4knLMDItsnBuvq95pFhQZuTLjIh8y6ulnavFC1ljA2TtRrT1J8hBSlLzSvRaoG2hATN52F8b4Pep3o_1RXo471qwcYgBCL-3JT6Wrpr-ZNu3Dhl0qXAvn5dA/s1600/blueberry-toasting-bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh6F83bduWQXqKCoq98XE4knLMDItsnBuvq95pFhQZuTLjIh8y6ulnavFC1ljA2TtRrT1J8hBSlLzSvRaoG2hATN52F8b4Pep3o_1RXo471qwcYgBCL-3JT6Wrpr-ZNu3Dhl0qXAvn5dA/s1600/blueberry-toasting-bread.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cinnamonspiceandeverythingnice.com/blueberry-english-muffin-toasting-bread/" target="_blank">Blueberry English Muffin Toasting Bread</a></div>
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@ Cinnamon Spice & Everything Nice</div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I share ideas <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This post contains an affiliate link.</span></i></div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-16869522987992202152014-03-29T21:51:00.002-05:002014-03-29T21:51:34.567-05:00Colorful Melted Candy Suncatcher<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVv1ssVf573aykYkgj5bZgeXxksZQm8fbPePxvnyMlkg37_4WlKVSy4NYC4LI0P_Y7lq7tZS7X0dX75zLq5vRDKblGfO1B4tR0Z8a7JzX92HGRmMf3tWdIzNuuHrHpM8cPbicypts7gbI/s1600/egg-suncatcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVv1ssVf573aykYkgj5bZgeXxksZQm8fbPePxvnyMlkg37_4WlKVSy4NYC4LI0P_Y7lq7tZS7X0dX75zLq5vRDKblGfO1B4tR0Z8a7JzX92HGRmMf3tWdIzNuuHrHpM8cPbicypts7gbI/s1600/egg-suncatcher.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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A burst of color is what we need as we await the beauty of spring that is still yet to come. And with some Jolly Rancher candies and our oven, we made a lovely suncatcher in the shape of an Easter egg. It now hangs in the window, catching rays of sunlight through the translucent colors to brighten up the kitchen. It's easy to make your own suncatcher by melting hard candy. Here's how.<br />
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<b>Supplies needed:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>hard candy in assorted colors (we used Jolly Rancher candies)</li>
<li>baking parchment</li>
<li>baking tray</li>
<li>metal skewer </li>
<li>waxed dental floss or ribbon</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat the oven to 275 degrees F (140 C). Line the baking tray with parchment.</li>
<li>Arrange the candies on the parchment in an eye-pleasing roundish shape.</li>
<li>Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the center is melted flat.</li>
<li>Tilt the warm tray to swirl the colors a bit and to even out the shape.</li>
<li>Allow the disc formed to cool. Trim the edges with a knife or break off small shards to even out the edges somewhat.</li>
<li>Heat the pointed end of the metal skewer over a stove top burner and puncture a hole near the top of the disc. Allow the edges of the hole to harden before threading with floss or ribbon. </li>
<li>Hang up your suncatcher near a window.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5iHSO6l3xqPNCl-sV5hf2ZYHIQmxQZnWlmJST8DCWVZrX2wvtWC4jE4V3a4rRTUFsA9IAX6TaoUN7MJO-26Bd1H1MGyjlFFIAkM0BTgGQCNio1AsfO1dmVv8IJjF_mJUD6HzYa7nk14g/s1600/egg-suncatcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5iHSO6l3xqPNCl-sV5hf2ZYHIQmxQZnWlmJST8DCWVZrX2wvtWC4jE4V3a4rRTUFsA9IAX6TaoUN7MJO-26Bd1H1MGyjlFFIAkM0BTgGQCNio1AsfO1dmVv8IJjF_mJUD6HzYa7nk14g/s1600/egg-suncatcher.jpg" height="400" width="308" /></a></div>
<i>I might be sharing this idea <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i> </div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-25430928256496693002014-03-25T11:09:00.002-05:002014-03-25T11:09:44.942-05:008 Ways to Welcome Spring, No Matter the WeatherThe calendar says that spring is here. Winter is reluctant to leave these parts, but we're going to welcome spring with some of these activities anyway. Here's how you can join us: <br />
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1. Plant some seeds, inside or outside. A recent post at Simple Bites demonstrates <a href="http://www.simplebites.net/starting-seeds-indoors/" target="_blank">how to start seeds indoors</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMwd5RF04CEp8OnL4kt5hmOvIjznp8cQdEUXc8li7cR3Lmo9HlLh-9cOjZxGw-oeBEXIwlZWbKE3mk92bQDOF8eIAXSUhUJJ4bpRVC6TtMkBvEu0RT99L7lLey7UIeHa0KG-jeYIejlIM/s1600/gardenshot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMwd5RF04CEp8OnL4kt5hmOvIjznp8cQdEUXc8li7cR3Lmo9HlLh-9cOjZxGw-oeBEXIwlZWbKE3mk92bQDOF8eIAXSUhUJJ4bpRVC6TtMkBvEu0RT99L7lLey7UIeHa0KG-jeYIejlIM/s1600/gardenshot.JPG" height="148" width="200" /></a></div>
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2. Make some colorful springtime snacks.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJqKHT8gi6XsfgODmbBCryABtuGkR0MmB9j-GJ9PxBqKtvVdy-_0x2YWl8npqE2FuuEYMmbyl9mn_Z4sLnVXpaZgMMBENs4wUCdbazvvEMoI9DoVUGI-Sy_U53fWjBZTjHx_HasPxa9bU/s1600/ladybug-black-seeds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJqKHT8gi6XsfgODmbBCryABtuGkR0MmB9j-GJ9PxBqKtvVdy-_0x2YWl8npqE2FuuEYMmbyl9mn_Z4sLnVXpaZgMMBENs4wUCdbazvvEMoI9DoVUGI-Sy_U53fWjBZTjHx_HasPxa9bU/s1600/ladybug-black-seeds.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/03/24/ladybugs-on-a-stick-of-celery-recipe/" target="_blank">Ladybugs on a Celery Stick</a></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtm0q73X7bjE0HSBkRxU21pbtChN15wCrJT3faX43c6E6RWxtg5G9M-osIbnTFolPFlGYn-mrD_zQBOfKcubjzjUYs9c_xlbJRkgVkUCpaJTeiq-8dcmIXy9fLTh0Q9aWK4ZZyUqOhT8/s1600/cooltreats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtm0q73X7bjE0HSBkRxU21pbtChN15wCrJT3faX43c6E6RWxtg5G9M-osIbnTFolPFlGYn-mrD_zQBOfKcubjzjUYs9c_xlbJRkgVkUCpaJTeiq-8dcmIXy9fLTh0Q9aWK4ZZyUqOhT8/s1600/cooltreats.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/06/vanilla-sprinkle-ice-cream-bites.html" target="_blank">Vanilla Sprinkle Ice Cream Bites</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-fz6GggNouFPJ36HqdWA39aNPcGtz8jkSGSUP7pcddm8SE1JZ3-Op4XhewLn7guZ1y9pXWi4gpcpCyu8yr4tz5r5gSmcs_HKOBrJECjQBzyvh0TiuK6HKGm6ZfNOqfMa6YgmIzqB1PU/s1600/greeneggs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-fz6GggNouFPJ36HqdWA39aNPcGtz8jkSGSUP7pcddm8SE1JZ3-Op4XhewLn7guZ1y9pXWi4gpcpCyu8yr4tz5r5gSmcs_HKOBrJECjQBzyvh0TiuK6HKGm6ZfNOqfMa6YgmIzqB1PU/s1600/greeneggs.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2009/05/wild-greens-from-backyard-4-simple.html" target="_blank">Deviled Eggs with Greens</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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3. Play a spring-inspired game.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmCMINv7ubtXlKAIeuIbwAm5YH-3pL01ZxJn36-c9WotX_D2-N46zLQULR73hlV7TMSQyhYZZXYaaLv-PIufMhrKBhsnHAWEclXg1uowenE6eDv3Yt3xWL-Jy03J1VCH8au7aMZnRAlE/s1600/cardboard-flowers-standing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmCMINv7ubtXlKAIeuIbwAm5YH-3pL01ZxJn36-c9WotX_D2-N46zLQULR73hlV7TMSQyhYZZXYaaLv-PIufMhrKBhsnHAWEclXg1uowenE6eDv3Yt3xWL-Jy03J1VCH8au7aMZnRAlE/s1600/cardboard-flowers-standing.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2013/04/eco-friendly-craft-and-game-reusing.html" target="_blank">Eco-Friendly Flower Game</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6P4rTLmYKP91TZXUcAVq_jDUNLqM9dInq90MK7ymxy7zJj5MyuAuexysjgyyg4DALp16cAPKGS22ny0YK1jbdUM1LboJjJ5XNh9qY428b1nFdlwu0kMlK9nvtoNhzW3iawyuPxYzzRnQ/s1600/bug-games_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6P4rTLmYKP91TZXUcAVq_jDUNLqM9dInq90MK7ymxy7zJj5MyuAuexysjgyyg4DALp16cAPKGS22ny0YK1jbdUM1LboJjJ5XNh9qY428b1nFdlwu0kMlK9nvtoNhzW3iawyuPxYzzRnQ/s1600/bug-games_1.JPG" height="148" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2010/04/ladybug-games.html" target="_blank">Ladybug Games</a></td></tr>
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4. Create some watercolor cards to send.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfO8FZNG7scXjVbwukRHZFiK5gSH2vbPWT5ItFMNjFVyRa0_bXEx_6hbdJHu4fgvhEiyDldFHVO99wZC0n3z6Jm4XNPVjAfLHlKuGZh3Ku3Voq2e5fdnfeIfi5mYZVLAxCixitpv-pkDc/s1600/104_7057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfO8FZNG7scXjVbwukRHZFiK5gSH2vbPWT5ItFMNjFVyRa0_bXEx_6hbdJHu4fgvhEiyDldFHVO99wZC0n3z6Jm4XNPVjAfLHlKuGZh3Ku3Voq2e5fdnfeIfi5mYZVLAxCixitpv-pkDc/s1600/104_7057.JPG" height="237" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/04/watercolor-cross-cards-for-easter.html" target="_blank">Watercolor Easter Cards</a></td></tr>
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5. Sing songs or recite poems or rhymes (with actions) that celebrate spring, Easter, and/or Passover.<br />
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Some possibilities:<br />
<ul><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5upYK7TFkjs" target="_blank">
</a>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5upYK7TFkjs" target="_blank">Round and Round the Garden</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjZVG_gMtGA" target="_blank">Two Little Blackbirds</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltgg0eYosOU" target="_blank">Five Little Ducks</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-Rz79emRhA" target="_blank">1-2-3 Jesus is Alive</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.theholidayzone.com/easter/songs.html" target="_blank">Three Days</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWUfNbv-R9U" target="_blank">Chad Gadya</a> (One Little Goat)</li>
</ul>
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6. Add flowers to your table or home decor. Gather them fresh from outside or <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2010/01/craft-of-week-hand-shaped-paper-flower.html" target="_blank">craft them</a> inside.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVxbQtiDYsrywNQMX2tLVCrhy5xaCG96uw6iFLoxV-swninb0K-qwd1_Sk03SrFy5TxZIcNk71hZWu5IN6VdPASa6jgpoag7_cZlcXjsRm5ABKubnGjOiqn_q-TmuRFkEqfXjgwCr4B0/s1600/peabouquet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVxbQtiDYsrywNQMX2tLVCrhy5xaCG96uw6iFLoxV-swninb0K-qwd1_Sk03SrFy5TxZIcNk71hZWu5IN6VdPASa6jgpoag7_cZlcXjsRm5ABKubnGjOiqn_q-TmuRFkEqfXjgwCr4B0/s1600/peabouquet.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj318XdaNVhSuuR8ZsalQmN6VvsoOayFYXCaGOjVQtmTwzgsTXSkKnbtV19LU9AUQv87oGgzofgyCXJwBSMsLih8URxg54tv6IXFFPxpMoDc9EYrbQUry8IX-tmdRihTW3GVhFLspAL8b8/s1600/holdingfleurs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj318XdaNVhSuuR8ZsalQmN6VvsoOayFYXCaGOjVQtmTwzgsTXSkKnbtV19LU9AUQv87oGgzofgyCXJwBSMsLih8URxg54tv6IXFFPxpMoDc9EYrbQUry8IX-tmdRihTW3GVhFLspAL8b8/s1600/holdingfleurs.JPG" height="148" width="200" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxa-0bUK_nhkKH1xaBFouLWU-w-TXCrJKIiDeJmGfiGZNF9cXrBxn5899KvA-uOeRGsFRbyihoEDpQhiNQoJ1u_ZpNcy3qDBztqumYSgqEh_q74qvwgV586Oma7tCbg-r8WLkvgXBgOg/s1600/casual-tulip-napkin-ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxa-0bUK_nhkKH1xaBFouLWU-w-TXCrJKIiDeJmGfiGZNF9cXrBxn5899KvA-uOeRGsFRbyihoEDpQhiNQoJ1u_ZpNcy3qDBztqumYSgqEh_q74qvwgV586Oma7tCbg-r8WLkvgXBgOg/s1600/casual-tulip-napkin-ring.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2013/03/tulip-napkin-rings-made-from-upcycled.html" target="_blank">Tulip Napkin Rings</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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7. Make a pitcher of fresh lemonade and invite a friend over to enjoy it together.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXybseEL3pOYvBwnA1Pzk_tRqftcV8rjXAZbOV6RAu3aF09Sv5HdZS1sueo4ewgFLmznpAGDBg5Vka6YHsHTS93_fbgtC0ATq98q_z1Xq-R0ePpq_5ybIRJJdh43Tafenvt9cF0siUQvk/s1600/cherryj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXybseEL3pOYvBwnA1Pzk_tRqftcV8rjXAZbOV6RAu3aF09Sv5HdZS1sueo4ewgFLmznpAGDBg5Vka6YHsHTS93_fbgtC0ATq98q_z1Xq-R0ePpq_5ybIRJJdh43Tafenvt9cF0siUQvk/s1600/cherryj.jpg" height="200" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/07/black-cherry-lemonade-mixer-healthy.html" target="_blank">Cherry Lemonade Mixer</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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8. Sort through clothes and have a spring fashion show. In the process, decide ahead of time what to wear to events like Easter or spring concerts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vMsTmfeZDYOllp_3t5vJqkA-JLUk3Hf1hsX612x_vd69GhMa4IjAB6ZKOME0i9QFX6-SiqgAsaahLuJ5tDZKZtgn0XrkwJLLfDGD5upfkaeRaHgbPlh_bvvrWzqwQuNLkGgQvirLxaQ/s1600/vintagedresses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vMsTmfeZDYOllp_3t5vJqkA-JLUk3Hf1hsX612x_vd69GhMa4IjAB6ZKOME0i9QFX6-SiqgAsaahLuJ5tDZKZtgn0XrkwJLLfDGD5upfkaeRaHgbPlh_bvvrWzqwQuNLkGgQvirLxaQ/s1600/vintagedresses.JPG" height="200" width="117" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I'm sharing this post <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></span>
</div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-57572763169263749222014-02-06T13:11:00.000-06:002014-02-07T20:48:58.436-06:003 Kid-Friendly Ways to Celebrate the Olympic Games at HomeThe winter games are here, and I am eager to watch some Olympic action this weekend! This is one of the rare times when I wish we had access to T.V. programming. Since we're an internet-and-DVD-only household, I'm planning to whip up some goodies over the next week and a half and invite myself over to watch some of the events with friends.<br />
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In addition to watching, there are some hands-on, feet-on activities that I'd like to do with my kids to celebrate the Olympic games that start this week. Here are three things I'm planning for us:<br />
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1) Eat some Olympic Rings!<br />
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/02/05/olympic-rings-gummy-candies-with-natural-colours/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BKYB2BBor4FoSOq2qx_bT0_o0E4INDdp7oWodkIEI8Jc3bDrzfGYKdm6UY3gC6iNwZGpFNCjNvi7G6yAjXAVClAZuNQ7_QBe7P9YGcErQ7NWGKQhzl1Wh2KLbjwtAGh_W1RqVasw6Zs/s1600/olympic-candy.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/02/05/olympic-rings-gummy-candies-with-natural-colours/" target="_blank">Recipe for Olympic Rings Gummy Candy</a></div>
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2) Do some indoor figure skating!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/lygUaeJ-i_Y" width="420"></iframe>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/01/winter-activity-week-carpet-gliding.html" target="_blank">How to Make Carpet Gliding Skates</a>
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3) Make and award some ice medals!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoHhd06XTeDhYRwTDoZsUkqQ_8hx26wppXmJmJ1U_5q6qoTPc72s56EKeO18kiXG7rkgVoDpVbPEuVLUFada-2DMBtfNjcAVVY9toqcTBEq17bgyEc-nsQZCN2wT_yBpFjDAdDKFr3AU/s1600/100_6407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoHhd06XTeDhYRwTDoZsUkqQ_8hx26wppXmJmJ1U_5q6qoTPc72s56EKeO18kiXG7rkgVoDpVbPEuVLUFada-2DMBtfNjcAVVY9toqcTBEq17bgyEc-nsQZCN2wT_yBpFjDAdDKFr3AU/s1600/100_6407.JPG" height="202" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2011/01/winter-activity-week-champion-ice.html" target="_blank">Champion Ice Medals</a></div>
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Are you planning to watch the games over the next week? </div>
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If so, what will your family members be doing while you watch?<br />
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<a href="http://pisforpreschooler.weebly.com/1/post/2014/02/the-olympics-oh-link-picks-linky-party-3.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOF5vvub-nZZYhOsddJg5VPHKlGuSg8CQhlGjbqrpQnsbwSHwOdZtmMM0zgCb3PCKTzU6IjLaUv-2Jp3mrnZYwppxj9zRluW47ktrBGSeSm9hbXVV2n4Yw6Pg-keWX6eGHLIoZHP2qtEk/s1600/Olympics-Linky-Party-Button.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
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Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-75426658074846647842014-01-25T11:07:00.000-06:002014-01-26T18:13:14.611-06:00Red Heart Pocket Pies with Strawberry Filling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBaYva-RxxOxmZUM_RMh9w3n5Mt2Za-qF0Gw2LjvjRVvYd3UO4Noy46DARH9LoQKK7pCDAmP7IFYaKuIuLfSLSaKD1Qb91-NpjIiYUOyLkFzNBxPjIML1Frg-ohwekr1n2DDvTTl1RWk/s1600/heart-strawberry-hand-pies+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBaYva-RxxOxmZUM_RMh9w3n5Mt2Za-qF0Gw2LjvjRVvYd3UO4Noy46DARH9LoQKK7pCDAmP7IFYaKuIuLfSLSaKD1Qb91-NpjIiYUOyLkFzNBxPjIML1Frg-ohwekr1n2DDvTTl1RWk/s1600/heart-strawberry-hand-pies+copy.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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It's not Valentine's Day yet, so I made these pocket pies with strawberry rhubarb filling to celebrate my daughter's second birthday this month. Any red fruit will work as the filling. I chose strawberries and rhubarb in order to clear out the last of the frozen produce that we gathered late in the summer. The recipe I used is from the Artful Parent. I appreciate that she includes instructions for how to make both the red fruit filling and the pastry crust from scratch. If pressed for time, you could also just buy crust and filling. Either way, your friends and family members are sure to enjoy a lovely pocket pie, for Valentine's Day, or just because you love them.<br />
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You can find the <a href="http://www.artfulparent.com/2013/02/cherry-hand-pies-for-valentines-day-or-anyday.html">recipe</a> I used for these pocket pies at <a href="http://www.artfulparent.com/" rel="nofollow">the Artful Parent.</a><br />
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In case you would like something with chocolate too, I have a recipe for <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/04/18/chocolate-buckwheat-waffles-with-coconut-whipped-cream/">Chocolate Buckwheat Waffles </a>over at Swirls and Spice.<br />
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/04/18/chocolate-buckwheat-waffles-with-coconut-whipped-cream/" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZ2ThzD23agdfwLcEJmrpOZqVCR70AOQ2Az3I-qiQ2LlYZl4vF7aUkLO_ur7Q-LzkCdalR5UCSI2KD5Gq-vie4kHfOI4SeCnHvQpH1uohmKPLPAHZNjAHWdXNeOBRqAvK-JlfzmcT2Q8/s1600/choco-waffle.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>I'm sharing this at <a href="http://www.callmepmc.com/2014/01/marvelous-mondays-link-party-3/" target="_blank">Marvelous Mondays</a>.</i></div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-51910701708822651672014-01-18T17:31:00.001-06:002014-01-18T17:31:20.265-06:00Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbor's Cake Stand {Make One Instead}Have you noticed that most of those lovely photos of cakes in magazines and on Pinterest include a cake stand? At my other site, <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Swirls and Spice</a>, I share recipes that I develop and try to make the food look enticing in the photos. But my budget is rather limited, so I don't own a lot of fancy props. I've contemplated buying a cake stand, but it just does not seem worth the money. So I have done without and endeavored to avoid coveting cake stands and other lovely dishes I see.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGtDYUxduGSPvgcuGSlLfxsQCNRaOLHljkyHC-uv6uXzWud-OUMqVI0fYKiMQgf2tGmX4WhLjW-IP3tgZOL6OZYMGIfOy6k6Bg57mw154uO14IiMcCPk0baLCO9mIETtlXtvYkZyWREg/s1600/DSCF2214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGtDYUxduGSPvgcuGSlLfxsQCNRaOLHljkyHC-uv6uXzWud-OUMqVI0fYKiMQgf2tGmX4WhLjW-IP3tgZOL6OZYMGIfOy6k6Bg57mw154uO14IiMcCPk0baLCO9mIETtlXtvYkZyWREg/s400/DSCF2214.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Still, there are occasions where a pretty cake stand would come in handy, like the baby shower pictured above. At the top left of the photo, if you look closely, you can see half of the Boston cream cupcakes I made sitting on a glass stand. The rest are on a matching glass platter.<br />
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Instead of buying a rather expensive one-piece cake stand, I found two bowls and platters at the (Canadian) dollar store that I though would work. And they did. I spent less than $5.00 and I now have two convertible "cake stands" that double as bowls and serving plates. I've used them frequently in the few two months for parties, family meals, and potlucks. Below are some of the recipe photos that have included my bargain serveware.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_4a_HSpxCNtDLq3J0wGYQZg8bOjTtM7zMrBYUOstYOsyASlPBHRfsqK8xK2_3tr0ymTY8T4j8ykMKBSBfe5x5AT9HYAvvP773JdA65LeIThQeq5_IL2iNPWq9-jODUyupMTQfv5jQwc/s1600/cran-salsa-platter+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_4a_HSpxCNtDLq3J0wGYQZg8bOjTtM7zMrBYUOstYOsyASlPBHRfsqK8xK2_3tr0ymTY8T4j8ykMKBSBfe5x5AT9HYAvvP773JdA65LeIThQeq5_IL2iNPWq9-jODUyupMTQfv5jQwc/s320/cran-salsa-platter+copy.jpg" height="320" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/11/20/janes-cranberry-salsa/" target="_blank">Cranberry Salsa</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
at Swirls and Spice</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-9LdMnd083IghSk2muj6R_dbVLf_4lNS9nUtVDgEA_QOsdo1p_6juviLOG95Pga9n2TAKv_sPI06M8LMqI24mcbKjSXYUg4et-02R7y6xFWOH5paUCFIMt9IRv4VQM9EMnELzuPeLHU/s1600/pomegranate-platter-sprinkled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-9LdMnd083IghSk2muj6R_dbVLf_4lNS9nUtVDgEA_QOsdo1p_6juviLOG95Pga9n2TAKv_sPI06M8LMqI24mcbKjSXYUg4et-02R7y6xFWOH5paUCFIMt9IRv4VQM9EMnELzuPeLHU/s320/pomegranate-platter-sprinkled.png" height="320" width="236" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/11/29/red-pomegranate-and-green-pesto-bites/" target="_blank">Pomegranate and Pesto Bites</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
at Swirls and Spice </div>
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If you've ever wished for a cake stand but lacked the money or space to have one in your kitchen, be not dismayed. Simply find a fancy bowl and platter, invert the bowl under the platter, and voila! You have a convertible cake stand!<br />
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2014/01/18/citrus-swirl-lemon-bars-recipe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img alt=" Recipe for Citrus Swirl Lemon Bars {from Swirls & Spice}" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrH3olVbUi8CdtXdA4QLBlRoXoO2Tfv9A6NAa1IF3XdhiwyOcQYKN1SZcK1wOPXKk-1x_NMxrgxChuR__XAYXknKSEQxGdRknIhm_AyjNR45BrbMup2L0oEyTmQSFim1CiHBh7J9oQbJE/s1600/citrus-lemon-bars2.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
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Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-41759188463782836292013-12-19T08:30:00.000-06:002013-12-21T10:28:09.058-06:00Stacked Button Christmas Tree Ornaments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T1aYT8Rpy6b6mlQCP_0ntAsiJddoU3UsVhlHNioahy98WQVMMBgsLVgLFYWc_w70SDhyphenhyphenGYLD1pJY1bdwkSMLRHWIdTssCFOBoXI0iEteWR8m2veIeHw7RRgN7D7LIkfTV3LmhDqjZpU/s1600/button-tree-ornament-still.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T1aYT8Rpy6b6mlQCP_0ntAsiJddoU3UsVhlHNioahy98WQVMMBgsLVgLFYWc_w70SDhyphenhyphenGYLD1pJY1bdwkSMLRHWIdTssCFOBoXI0iEteWR8m2veIeHw7RRgN7D7LIkfTV3LmhDqjZpU/s400/button-tree-ornament-still.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Each Sunday of Advent we have planned a family activity. Homemade ornament making was something that the kids and I really enjoyed this month. Some of the ornaments turned out to be more durable than others, and these button ornaments are ones that I hope to keep around for a while.<br />
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Stacked button tree ornaments would also make cute teacher gifts or package decorations. We've still got quite a bit of packages left to wrap, and I'd love to make a few more of these to add to our teacher gifts. How about you? Do you wrap your presents early or wait until it's closer to Christmas?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFL9wRhaL95TjCjJRaFqEHKi1a1cLQQX7iGsdemvySe9u-brzlVHZZVgNjfwza_zWP5etCM_3KiyJVuly9cevunGp_Vfcoj4roVRPMjHXyXvRZ5SD1xx9wljE9FzVRMUaQkwY-cKKbdE/s1600/button-tree-with-beads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFL9wRhaL95TjCjJRaFqEHKi1a1cLQQX7iGsdemvySe9u-brzlVHZZVgNjfwza_zWP5etCM_3KiyJVuly9cevunGp_Vfcoj4roVRPMjHXyXvRZ5SD1xx9wljE9FzVRMUaQkwY-cKKbdE/s400/button-tree-with-beads.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b> Materials Used:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Assorted buttons (ours were from the dollar store)</li>
<li>String, dental floss, or embroidery floss.</li>
<li>Beads</li>
<li>Hot glue and glue gun, or craft glue, optional</li>
</ul>
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcaCwhkVj95xMAUMu1RoQpXbskh2ig7K3afwrZ5oBmWLHK7zjvcqfs2MKTXhDic3b28TllJX4xtnifnjc0RoDQPqJV7kTGBiyUvZFdLaWWDLgZGLF7BDVmI2YzLonpqbG__z3tbrT740/s1600/green-button-tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcaCwhkVj95xMAUMu1RoQpXbskh2ig7K3afwrZ5oBmWLHK7zjvcqfs2MKTXhDic3b28TllJX4xtnifnjc0RoDQPqJV7kTGBiyUvZFdLaWWDLgZGLF7BDVmI2YzLonpqbG__z3tbrT740/s320/green-button-tree.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<ol>
<li>Stack buttons, starting with the largest at the bottom and top with a sparkly bead on top. </li>
<li>Thread string through two of the holes of each button, separating the buttons as needed. Tie a loop at the top of the string.</li>
<li>Glue on seed beads for additional colors if desired.</li>
</ol>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #274e13;">I</span><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #274e13;">'</span>m sharing this at <a href="http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com/2013/12/show-tell-saturday-12-21-13.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Show and Tell Saturday</a> and <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">more</a>.</span></span></i></div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-47414284547064571132013-12-18T14:26:00.000-06:002013-12-18T15:36:52.591-06:00Homemade String Art Kit: A Great Stocking Stuffer or Last-Minute GiftDoing it all just can't be done. That is a lesson I continue to learn this year. The women I admire most already recognize that and focus on top priorities, letting others go. So it has been a while since I've done much crafting, much less posted about any. But for the sake of friends and family, some crafting inspiration returned this month.<br />
<br />
A new friend of mine had a baby this fall, and I was able to visit her in the hospital and meet her sweet newborn daughter back in November. I didn't prepare a gift ahead of time, so I baked some goodies and picked up some helium balloons for her other girls. However, I still wanted to send a baby gift, so this week I finally got a package together.<br />
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But what could I tuck in for the older children this time? A craft kit made perfect sense (and it was one of the ideas in <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/simple-holiday-gift-ideas-families-kids-2239864.html" target="_blank">this article about gifts for kids</a>). Friendship bracelets seemed a tad complicated, so I decided to print out instructions for string art stars. To wrap it up, I notched the ends of a cardboard tube. Here was the result:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJgs6_J0T9MibFK9p6bOPdXuoFgHx49Z4poAS6dTGR1NY0Z2TbGX_rZtNjpptcLNEHPYe6s5gr9yEFEgIxCewz61kNnNoQOUsdUz7eGWgWrxfXlAgTzbHAAP36hfCz-3O6jWoB3RHjJQ/s1600/Star+String+Art+Kits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJgs6_J0T9MibFK9p6bOPdXuoFgHx49Z4poAS6dTGR1NY0Z2TbGX_rZtNjpptcLNEHPYe6s5gr9yEFEgIxCewz61kNnNoQOUsdUz7eGWgWrxfXlAgTzbHAAP36hfCz-3O6jWoB3RHjJQ/s640/Star+String+Art+Kits.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
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These simple kits would work well for so many occasions! I only wish I had thought of it before we bought gifts for the class Christmas parties at school this week. Since I had some embroidery floss and cardboard tubes on hand already, I did not have to buy a thing! String art kits would also make great stocking stuffers. Or you could bring these along as gifts to open and enjoy on any holiday car or plane trips coming up (but make sure you bring along some notched cardboard discs). Would any kids you know enjoy a kit like this?<br />
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<b>Materials Used:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Cardboard paper towel tube</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
<li>Embroidery floss or colored string</li>
<li>Printed instructions* for string art </li>
</ul>
<div>
<i>*I used <a href="http://www.creativejewishmom.com/2012/11/geometric-string-craft-stars-make-gorgeous-holiday-decorations.html" target="_blank">these instructions</a> by Creative Jewish Mom.</i></div>
<div>
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Wrap the printed instructions for string art around the tube. Trim the tube so that it is slightly longer than the paper for the instructions.</li>
<li><i>Optional:</i> Cut notches in the ends of the tubes and wrap extra string around the tube so that the paper is tied onto the cardboad tube with decorative string art.</li>
<li>Tuck skeins of embroidery floss or string inside the tube. Give with a smile. </li>
</ol>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7noNblITV7J7-u6T1WffKmHizeeUpP_GE1i3FEF4DYJWSB9u1NKGpotNSRUSPYVcJabGsF2ywRBqOsTm6SuGHd8kzoSUIsldfiT-PaCM6UF6uXcKBjmI6tASTDz1CNAlM7QLi6J9Ih0/s1600/end-thread-skeins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7noNblITV7J7-u6T1WffKmHizeeUpP_GE1i3FEF4DYJWSB9u1NKGpotNSRUSPYVcJabGsF2ywRBqOsTm6SuGHd8kzoSUIsldfiT-PaCM6UF6uXcKBjmI6tASTDz1CNAlM7QLi6J9Ih0/s400/end-thread-skeins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-44707030671851110472013-09-13T17:56:00.001-05:002013-09-14T21:22:42.533-05:00Make It From Scratch: Fresh Naan, Lentil Salad, and Our Week in ReviewMaking food from scratch makes a lot of sense when you live in a town without a grocery store. Inspired by Money Saving Mom's <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2013/09/make-it-from-scratch-week-natural-antibiotic-tea-day-5.html" target="_blank">Make It From Scratch Week</a>, I was hoping to make homemade bread for us to eat all week long. That didn't happen, but I did try out a few new from-scratch recipes, like Indian flatbread (naan) and Italian Cabbage Rolls. Here's how we did, in reverse order.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1zMUotFZHi36QY6hOEmiQ6pmi0PGv_3xUsQ5mYLPj80llN_6r9zc5BF2nIvt1q6kJpoYWGl6QwAdhM6KvGk4yQe5pHQ6WiCXn6PuwLjkUawAHNvr6-gKykb3mwXdLVecpKwjIy8Xw24/s1600/naan-closer-plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1zMUotFZHi36QY6hOEmiQ6pmi0PGv_3xUsQ5mYLPj80llN_6r9zc5BF2nIvt1q6kJpoYWGl6QwAdhM6KvGk4yQe5pHQ6WiCXn6PuwLjkUawAHNvr6-gKykb3mwXdLVecpKwjIy8Xw24/s320/naan-closer-plate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>Friday</b></span><br />
Today's lunch was <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/09/13/dairy-free-naan-bread/" target="_blank">homemade naan</a> and <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2011/12/french-lentil-salad.html" target="_blank">lentil salad</a>. Tonight's menu is Vietnamese chicken and Chinese onion pancakes.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Thursday</b></span><br />
We had leftover cabbage rolls as soup for lunch, but dinner was not homemade. I didn't thaw any chicken, so I resorted to boxed frozen pizzas.<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Wednesday</b></span><br />
The long awaited <a href="http://www.jo-ann-growingingrace.com/2013/05/cabbage-rolls-italian-style.html" target="_blank">Italian Cabbage Rolls</a> finally appeared on our dinner table! The traditional, non-Italian versions are hugely popular in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, thanks to the Ukranianian immigrant heritage.<br />
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/07/20/saskatoon-berry-applesauce-bars/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_xsg_3T-0YfTAMl0vjFEAr9qF_cS2EGRTbjncvCh6_VmCcjk_e_C5Y1W4dxUuNqc0KS-aKIcAQfvou5gZWhXOVGtOVIiAlplvhSlS_pmtggp6g8UyQEFtMog37jkZDOyI6xP_1JXCpI/s320/applesauce+berry+bars.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #e69138;"><b>Tuesday</b></span><br />
I had planned to make pizza from scratch, but time was running low. So deli chicken it was. However, I did make <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/07/20/saskatoon-berry-applesauce-bars/" target="_blank">Saskatoon Berry Applesauce Bars</a> for an evening event.<br />
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b>Monday</b></span><br />
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"Brinner's ready!" Making a breakfast-type casserole for worked out well. The recipe for <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/09/14/egg-sausage-and-grits-casserole-a-dairy-free-recipe/" target="_blank">Savoury Egg, Sausage, and Grits Casserole</a> is now at <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/" target="_blank">Swirls and Spice</a>. I invite you to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/swirlsandspice#" target="_blank">follow Swirls and Spice on Facebook</a> or subscribe to new posts there so you get all of my latest recipes as soon as they are published!</div>
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<i><b>What did you make from scratch this week?</b></i></div>
Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-25674381462172884622013-09-09T06:30:00.000-05:002013-09-09T14:51:34.535-05:00How a Mason Jar Lid Saved Bathtime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivfyBdy3ej0BtfnR5LDTxP3NZu0TUVnBp0_rrYcuz7fDI3ALOEbGVTKIeFeWlJW0dSsTOXVc4XiSulZuDlTZ7ug3vbV7CIMR3os_pus4DsDA7x6s-My2-JK7eQgCkk42-wRHRLTaTngIA/s1600/toddler-mischief.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivfyBdy3ej0BtfnR5LDTxP3NZu0TUVnBp0_rrYcuz7fDI3ALOEbGVTKIeFeWlJW0dSsTOXVc4XiSulZuDlTZ7ug3vbV7CIMR3os_pus4DsDA7x6s-My2-JK7eQgCkk42-wRHRLTaTngIA/s1600/toddler-mischief.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>e have a little toddler in our house who trots off with important items from time to time. Phones, toilet plungers, and bathtub stoppers seem particularly appealing. A rubber stopper is the easiest to hide of these three favorites, and also the most essential for bath time.<br />
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As you might guess, the stopper went missing recently, but kids still needed bathing. So I thought about what I could use as a makeshift substitute. Trying a rubber glove ended in failure. But then I came up with a solution that worked surprisingly well. An old mason jar lid (minus the ring). The rubber seal fit our drain hole perfectly.<br />
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So, if your bathtub stopper ever goes MIA, just try a mason jar lid and see if it works for you.<br />
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<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-44966748620451550782013-09-05T16:42:00.000-05:002013-09-06T21:41:00.629-05:00The Summer that Was and Wasn'tKids are back in school, Labor Day is behind us, and leaves are starting to fall. I am simultaneously feeling:<br />
1) wistful that we did not have a "real" summer vacation,<br />
2) guilty that we never got into a good routine for our summer days together, and<br />
3) relieved that the burden of structuring my time and that of my children is no longer mine alone to bear.<br />
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Rather that obsessing over what I did not accomplish or what was not feasible, I want to cultivate a spirit of gratitude. There were a lot of very good things that happened this summer, and some of them were even on my summer "bucket list." Here are the things that come to mind.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86JUT1KG8e9W3b3_W-NT8vmZUB5zjlSTL32wbyhPeW-QV8nOOLOAg6quKjDk9HnRF_-ktrL1XJW62L4FEcInD0_YxR893Rulcl34uZK-iZpMIJDCC2ZXQES0DmvC_39KV3Er8FPcUV-E/s1600/picking-Saskatoon-berries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86JUT1KG8e9W3b3_W-NT8vmZUB5zjlSTL32wbyhPeW-QV8nOOLOAg6quKjDk9HnRF_-ktrL1XJW62L4FEcInD0_YxR893Rulcl34uZK-iZpMIJDCC2ZXQES0DmvC_39KV3Er8FPcUV-E/s320/picking-Saskatoon-berries.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
In July:<br />
<ul>
<li>My husband's parent's came for a visit.</li>
<li>We explored the <a href="http://www.sasksciencecentre.com/" target="_blank">Saskatchewan Science Centre</a> for the first time. </li>
<li>Grandparents babysat while we went out for a dinner date in the big city.</li>
<li>I got my official Canadian passport!</li>
<li>I was able to switch my part-time work schedule and get to know some fascinating co-workers.</li>
<li>We found and picked a pitcher-full of local Saskatoon berries! I've been itching to do this since our arrival in Saskatchewan last summer. With the fresh berries we picked we enjoyed <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/07/20/saskatoon-berry-applesauce-bars/" target="_blank">Saskatoon berry applesauce bars</a> and berry topped <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/07/18/honey-oat-bran-spelt-pancakes/" target="_blank">pancakes</a>. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/07/18/honey-oat-bran-spelt-pancakes/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVxcC8hzF4ctUYo1C8rf2ETTUvLiSA-HByb9Ax2vMxP4TIKkA9xGaeFRfxtIrfM5SCp298HKT0Z5exBn__ER00EBJyu_wwqxqovbCyi5i2oa0QM5eshzs4SCKmyYZXLcUPJpH9FI098o/s200/honey-oat-spelt-cakes.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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In August:<br />
<ul>
<li>My parents came for an extended visit.</li>
<li>We went out to celebrate our 13th anniversary while my parents babysat. </li>
<li>We went on a family history tour to see the area where my mom and grandparents were from.</li>
<li>My husband got to teach new EFL teachers in Cambodia.</li>
<li>The kids and I went strawberry picking.</li>
<li>Friends let us tend and harvest the produce in their garden while they were away. I've missed having a garden of my own. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/09/06/raspberry-rhubarb-jam-with-honey/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju6l1SUZY-2g-5Ti0NEkfbtwE3S6Wt0KLSZuRankDvkuR0ZRYa40pH6xUnZ0rmUyU8r5MFAnWrqMBb-pqb45zjeErjWt7x1ABVDS4ZlrXgmhaxZCeb_WlT7sJTopqZl6Z-Rnn5U9gHdjc/s320/raspberry-rhubarb-jam.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>We made lots of yummy <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/09/06/raspberry-rhubarb-jam-with-honey/" target="_blank">jam</a>. My mom brought us more delicious jam from her kitchen. </li>
<li>My mom also helped us catch up on laundry. Yes, we can actually see (part of) the laundry room floor now!</li>
<li>My husband finished the first draft of his Ph.D. dissertation! We started this grad school journey six years ago, and now the end is in sight.</li>
<li>I got a second-hand (or third or fourth-hand, more likely) bike that works--and it was free!</li>
<li>We finally got an offer on our house in Nebraska! It's been 12 months since we packed up and headed north.</li>
</ul>
<br />
There are still a few question marks in our lives right now. When will our house deal finally close? Will we continue to rent here or will we dive into the local, more expensive real estate market here in Saskatchewan? Will my husband graduate in December? If so, will we risk traveling in December to attend the ceremony? Should I keep working part-time after the house closes? We need wisdom and patience from above. Seasons of waiting and uncertainty are hard. I am ready for closure. Nevertheless, God is good, all the time.Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-67379808391608084572013-07-02T17:04:00.002-05:002013-07-02T17:31:20.780-05:00Sun-Baked Homemade Chocolate BarsFor the summer months, I am working in the early mornings while my husband stays home with the four kids. Then I return and he goes to work. Today I said we would bring him lunch. So five of us trundled over to where he works and made our lunchtime delivery. Then it was time to return home to eat our lunch. But on the way to the door, we spied the candy vending machine. <br />
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Though we had not even a nickel along in our pockets, I humored my hungry brood half way by letting them type in the codes to reveal the prices of the treats for sale. Candy bar or chips for $2.00 (Canadian), anyone? Even my children realized that the prices were exorbitant.<br />
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When we returned home, my 9-year-old asked if we had any chocolate chips. She thought it would be fun to melt them and make her own candy bars, no coinage required. Since it is blazing hot this week, melting the chips proved easy. We simply used solar power, as I like to do to <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/2009/05/returning-to-my-solar-powered-clothes.html" target="_blank">dry my clothes</a>.<br />
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Here's how we formed our own chocolate candy bars...<br />
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<b>Step 1: Assemble the ingredients and equipment.</b><br />
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We lined a glass bread pan with waxed paper and added chocolate chips </div>
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and a few almonds. Then we covered the pan with plastic wrap.</div>
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<b>Step 2: Place the pan in the sun to bake. </b></div>
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We set the pan on a metal roof (though any sunny spot would do) </div>
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until the chocolate melted. We stirred the chips to form a smooth layer, </div>
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and then set the chocolate out again.</div>
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<b>Step 3: Cool and cut the chocolate bars.</b></div>
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After cooling the pan in the freezer (or fridge), the bars were ready to cut. </div>
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We used a sharp knife, since the chocolate was very firm.</div>
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<b>Step 4: Serve and enjoy.</b></div>
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Since the bars are prone to melting, we stored them in the refrigerator.</div>
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If you are interested in healthier chocolate recipes, I have recipes for dairy free <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/06/11/fresh-cherry-chocolate-pudding-with-avocado/" target="_blank">chocolate pudding</a>, <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/04/18/chocolate-buckwheat-waffles-with-coconut-whipped-cream/" target="_blank">chocolate waffles</a> and <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/05/27/double-chocolate-mini-donuts-with-coconut/" target="_blank">chocolate donuts</a> posted at my new food blog, <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/" target="_blank">Swirls and Spice</a>.</div>
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<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-53874586257840258682013-06-07T07:00:00.000-05:002013-06-07T07:00:01.488-05:00Snack Time Inspiration: Spiced Up PopcornWhether I am craving Mexican spices or something more exotic, popcorn is a simple way to satisfy my snack-tooth. Using different spices to create a popcorn sampler is a fun way to introduce the family to international flavors. For the recipes, head over to my other blog, <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/06/06/spice-it-up-popcorn/" target="_blank">Swirls and Spice</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XU1-uxLZuyHAs4blGQ4GCTEUFUSSUINSmOppKF_TAOQ4n9hmhxF5hso5jrt-mrU3-hYBya-Q7nHfdzWxKbRpERI94aRQXe2JlAqRpwqtZuTnUuOGPJVqDH-nUmrocSJd-80hqY9FZcc/s1600/popcorn-trio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XU1-uxLZuyHAs4blGQ4GCTEUFUSSUINSmOppKF_TAOQ4n9hmhxF5hso5jrt-mrU3-hYBya-Q7nHfdzWxKbRpERI94aRQXe2JlAqRpwqtZuTnUuOGPJVqDH-nUmrocSJd-80hqY9FZcc/s320/popcorn-trio.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Also, <a href="http://swirlsandspice.com/2013/06/06/spice-it-up-popcorn/" target="_blank">Spiced Up Popcorn</a> can be turned into a ranking activity, where each person chooses their favorites. Or you could make it into a guessing game, for more advanced palates. Placing the popcorn in cut-off paper bags is not only convenient for serving, you can write labels or numbers on each bag. I hope you enjoy these fresh new flavors as much as we did!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33j7yFDUik_W-WUYu1VOUCxIPkXOx0vOaQal1RqVU9fpyf5rn4drB27euZRpaik_rh950CTceidSAKVAEVxiN7GcAHL1p230TT5toqCuDkwhfjiYIs9XXyb7ynWLExXajz5Bud3et4Uw/s1600/spiced-popcorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33j7yFDUik_W-WUYu1VOUCxIPkXOx0vOaQal1RqVU9fpyf5rn4drB27euZRpaik_rh950CTceidSAKVAEVxiN7GcAHL1p230TT5toqCuDkwhfjiYIs9XXyb7ynWLExXajz5Bud3et4Uw/s320/spiced-popcorn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-51582548661716288232013-06-06T11:47:00.002-05:002013-06-06T12:23:38.366-05:00Glittery Dragonfly Craft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojocVo429pigw1ui_ZlhYCpmaNynHRffyD1BXH6jpK0N0m4eLYu2NztNEt_nBLF_sB5j1Cx8muOzUWEG9olkgM6n4cHp0ikuWLF0NfcCLmPw2l0L4g1tNhk5HYCpA2HJ5qufhXFJo_TA/s1600/spotted-dragonfly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojocVo429pigw1ui_ZlhYCpmaNynHRffyD1BXH6jpK0N0m4eLYu2NztNEt_nBLF_sB5j1Cx8muOzUWEG9olkgM6n4cHp0ikuWLF0NfcCLmPw2l0L4g1tNhk5HYCpA2HJ5qufhXFJo_TA/s320/spotted-dragonfly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bugs and butterflies were the theme of my daughter's recent June birthday. I looked for a craft idea that would appeal to both boys and girls, and found this simple <a href="http://www.daniellesplace.com/html/bugs.html" target="_blank">dragonfly DIY craft idea</a>, made from plastic spoons and knives. <br />
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The only hitch was drying time, but we simply delivered most of the crafts later. (One boy took his home to dry.) This would be a great craft for a VBS or day camp as well, where kids can pick it up on the next day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMm32QsV8ZTbJ1U8H3GZquUnSCQsIf9axiSKmG18i9wPwNEdX9Mrnyrdz9rh5JKK1Tc-wqh-Md1MUOPkdSYJmo-IXYou8h9u7rFzWlkjzJ4xnLmIm37LT7yE6YRQycqExyPBI5vfTpJ4/s1600/green-dragonfly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMm32QsV8ZTbJ1U8H3GZquUnSCQsIf9axiSKmG18i9wPwNEdX9Mrnyrdz9rh5JKK1Tc-wqh-Md1MUOPkdSYJmo-IXYou8h9u7rFzWlkjzJ4xnLmIm37LT7yE6YRQycqExyPBI5vfTpJ4/s320/green-dragonfly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Materials Used:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Plastic knives and spoons</li>
<li>Super glue gel or hot glue</li>
<li>Glitter glue</li>
<li>Permanent marker</li>
<li>Popcorn kernels or googly eyes, optional</li>
</ul>
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<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-28884107001649783342013-05-13T10:57:00.003-05:002013-05-28T09:55:36.295-05:00DIY Memory Stone Pen Holder for Father's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSFox3NyeHF0wGlURQUpJIRPnO9rD-FdIhBMtCWkBfwVbsY9nAMy6p3K0Ots0UEdvnOSx8XEvbi-dk32nBWZTl5hBZ2LFBv5mlOCuDIxennK_wOWH5bACcVGm8ODtIxf9dUdsc3SluTw/s1600/stone+mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSFox3NyeHF0wGlURQUpJIRPnO9rD-FdIhBMtCWkBfwVbsY9nAMy6p3K0Ots0UEdvnOSx8XEvbi-dk32nBWZTl5hBZ2LFBv5mlOCuDIxennK_wOWH5bACcVGm8ODtIxf9dUdsc3SluTw/s1600/stone+mug.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
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One simple gift that I made several years ago for my husband still graces his desk. A mug with a broken handle, some handfuls of multi-colored stones, and some very strong glue are all that I used to create this simple pen holder. It is a perfect gift for Father's Day.<br />
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I was inspired to make this stone-covered mug by a friend who was gluing stones to old lamp bases, to give as wedding gifts. So if you and your kids collect a lot of stones, you could also decorate a ceramic lamp (or two). For us, stones found on the shores of the Great Lakes have special significance. Not only have my husband and I lived in Chicago, near the beaches of Lake Michigan, we also had our honeymoon in Canada on an island between Lakes Huron and Superior.<br />
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<b>Materials Used:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Multicolored stones (a selection of 50 to 100 is ideal)</li>
<li>Ceramic mug without a handle (I chipped off the remaining stub as best I could)</li>
<li>Strong gel glue that bonds ceramics (such as Gorilla Glue)</li>
</ul>
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Wash and dry stones well prior to gluing.</li>
<li>Arrange stones on a table and then on the mug without glue to get an idea of where you would like each stone placed.</li>
<li>In a well-ventilated area, glue stones onto the mug, making sure to cover the broken-off handle area of the mug first. </li>
</ol>
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<i><b>Need a gift bag for this once it is done? Check out this frugal <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/how-reusable-gift-bag-fathers-day-and-3495471.html" target="_blank">gift bag made from newspaper comics.</a></b></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm linking this project up <a href="http://roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html" target="_blank">here</a> and at <a href="http://amy-newnostalgia.blogspot.ca/2013/05/anti-procrastination-tuesday_28.html" target="_blank">AP Tuesday</a>.</span><b> </b></i></div>
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Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-20157746113204467842013-04-27T15:52:00.000-05:002013-04-27T15:54:00.592-05:00A Springtime Picnic SnackToday is graduation day for the college students in our tiny town. While my husband dons an academic robe, I am home with the kids, two of whom are asleep. On my second daughter's list of things to do today was "surprise for Mom." After lunch, she invited me outside for this:<br />
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<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-52347523982530017512013-04-08T09:30:00.003-05:002013-04-18T16:57:22.381-05:00Eco-Friendly Craft and Game: Reusing Plastic Eggs to Make Flowers<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFK51kxRCiEcERGQSy54lseNzhqVGaXBYPvrmVOyGXWpuGOmrpsGVGTJZscDysUqpkm0OVZgy9fPRnADho7f3xHgfmRDsF_73nQIp3dIVkctaIZgiidn7MxaX_57yr56EqzUpCuvN2tU/s1600/cardboard-flowers-standing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFK51kxRCiEcERGQSy54lseNzhqVGaXBYPvrmVOyGXWpuGOmrpsGVGTJZscDysUqpkm0OVZgy9fPRnADho7f3xHgfmRDsF_73nQIp3dIVkctaIZgiidn7MxaX_57yr56EqzUpCuvN2tU/s400/cardboard-flowers-standing.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We were inspired to create our own <a href="http://family.yourway.net/build-a-garden-math-game/" target="_blank">garden math game</a> during Easter break. Real flowers outdoors are at least a month away, so it was cheering to add some color to our day. Interestingly, it was my five-year-old son who was most eager to make these, and then knock the flowers down of course.</div>
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<b>Materials Used:</b></div>
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<ul>
<li>cardboard tubes (from toilet paper rolls or paper towels)</li>
<li>cardboard cereal or cake boxes</li>
<li>scissors</li>
<li>paint</li>
<li>paintbrush(es)</li>
<li>clear tape</li>
<li>leftover plastic Easter eggs</li>
<li>tin can or softball</li>
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
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<ol>
<li>Draw flower shapes onto cardboard, using the plastic egg halves as centers to give a sense of proportion. Cut out flower shapes.</li>
<li>Paint flowers and use egg halves as stamps in the paint. Let dry.</li>
<li>Paint or color cardboard tubes green to serve as stems. We slit them lengthwise and rolled them tighter, securing with tape.</li>
<li>Assemble flowers by standing tubes upright to form stems, then adding flower petal layer, followed by the plastic egg halves to be the center of each flower.</li>
<li>To play a bowling type of game, roll a tin can (I stuffed ours with a plastic bag to add ballast) or softball to knock down the flower "pins." Keep score of how many flowers are toppled for some fun addition practice. Another version of a math game requiring a die to roll can be found <a href="http://family.yourway.net/build-a-garden-math-game/" target="_blank">here</a>.</li>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk-HaolgppK91nLR1BcdO20T6sA-pkF8AfXss_md290XIafMpKq5xeRBBI3mEX_oI6jdngrB-fr9kvxoZhgzN-HxbclwyheIqERMBcq-AWfu0bW7L2jjl6UBw069smIMDxKg8Ld55faKU/s1600/mushroom-caps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk-HaolgppK91nLR1BcdO20T6sA-pkF8AfXss_md290XIafMpKq5xeRBBI3mEX_oI6jdngrB-fr9kvxoZhgzN-HxbclwyheIqERMBcq-AWfu0bW7L2jjl6UBw069smIMDxKg8Ld55faKU/s320/mushroom-caps.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my children created this variation, which looks like mushrooms.</td></tr>
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<i>Find more creative ideas each week at <a href="http://www.sortacrunchy.net/sortacrunchy/2013/04/your-green-resource-week-eighty-one.html" target="_blank">Your Green Resource</a> and <a href="http://www.roots-of-simplicity.blogspot.ca/p/link-ups.html">these fun places</a>.
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Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2432489464503320239.post-15380633104670035482013-04-05T14:34:00.000-05:002013-04-05T15:37:46.820-05:00Creating and Tracing Rainbow Light Patterns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Inspired by those magical moments when "rainbows" appear on the floor as glass breaks sunlight into its color spectrum, my daughter wanted to try to trace the color patterns. We improved our odds by placing a glass jar near a window on a sunny morning. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgUn5gAhB0NjPJAf07rDaGwuXdhFEHbsTQqIYlLvapvuwt9L4y8-xrR-ZAezE02FfWjFd54GbeO5QCqpo5MA9XcptRVj0ntK6Akqbwlc8q51nG8ckk57A5CBpa1_t7a6yuZUt8flGaX94/s1600/jar-as-prism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgUn5gAhB0NjPJAf07rDaGwuXdhFEHbsTQqIYlLvapvuwt9L4y8-xrR-ZAezE02FfWjFd54GbeO5QCqpo5MA9XcptRVj0ntK6Akqbwlc8q51nG8ckk57A5CBpa1_t7a6yuZUt8flGaX94/s320/jar-as-prism.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
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After playing with angles, my daughters started tracing the colorful light patterns that they found. It was a bit of a race against time, as the sun's angle changed, but we still enjoyed the process.<br />
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Watercolor paints would be even better because kids can paint more swiftly. Now that we've located our stash of paintbrushes, we'll have to try tracing with watercolors next.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This pattern was outlined later, and it seemed to resemble an island.</span></div>
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<br />Aiming4Simplehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11109113147823332056noreply@blogger.com2