tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42662269094192583142024-03-18T15:57:49.335-04:00Musings from Kim K.Musings from Kim K.Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.comBlogger1652125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-54099767622972995892017-06-19T16:39:00.002-04:002017-06-19T16:39:09.726-04:00Josie's Harry Potter Birthday partyOver the years, we’ve thrown some pretty incredible themed birthday parties and if you’ve followed me long enough, you know my husband has quite a love affair with Harry Potter. This year, Josie was finally turning the magical age of 11, so on June 10th, we held a Harry Potter birthday party for 9 of Josie's friends.<br />
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While it started out like planning for any other birthday party, it quickly began to take on a life of its own. Thank goodness Chris hosts an annual Yule Ball each winter in his school district and both his elementary school offices are filled with HP decorations.<br />
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In addition to my husband’s decorations, I wanted to offer a few surprises to Josie and her crew and I found Pinterest to be hugely helpful. We might be one of the biggest Harry Potter families, but there are lots of other fanatics who have done equally amazing Harry Potter parties.<br />
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Because Josie was having both girls and boys at her party, we didn’t have a sleepover. My compromise was a 5 hour party instead <i>(yes...you read that correctly…Chris and I were exhausted when it was done)</i>. I wanted the party to feel like a real day at Hogwarts, not a birthday party with games and the like.<br />
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<b>The activities</b></div>
Kids arrived and entered into Hogwart's via Platform 9 ¾ . You’ll recognize this from Chris’s school events.<br />
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They then spent time posing by the Hogwart’s Express made from refrigerator boxes. <i>We can’t take credit for this. One of Chris’s coworkers (and incredibly talented art teacher) made this for their Yule Ball.</i> The fog machine from our Halloween parties completes the look.<br />
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Professor Dumbledore (my husband) escorted them to Diagon Alley where kids were given special wands made from wooden dowels, hot glue and paint. The wand boxes were estate sale piano rolls boxes.<br />
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After that, we proceeded with a sorting hat ceremony. You’ll notice even our sunroom year-round tree, even got a HP makeover.<br />
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It was a beastly hot day during the party, so we divided up the party into outdoor and indoor activities. Some of the indoor activities included decorating their swim noodle broom handles or creating/naming their owl made from helium balloons and markers. </div>
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The swim noodle and yellow plastic tablecloth (fringed with scissors) were purchased from Dollar Tree. I also found all sorts of decorative tape at Dollar Tree that they used on their broom handles.<br />
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The kids loved designing and naming their owls. <br />
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I loved seeing how creative they got with their pets. <br />
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Some of the outdoor activities included a potion class (which was a huge hit), a scavenger hunt in the Forbidden Forest, Charms class, flying lessons and casting spells at Dementors. </div>
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For the potions class, I saved party favor cauldrons from Halloween (one per child) and then we collected all sorts of bottles and filled with secret ingredients that they mixed together. We used baking soda, vinegar colored water and dish soap to create bubbling potions.<br />
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<b>The Food</b><br />
We were able to borrow a large folding table so that all 10 guests could be seated together in the Great Hall. <br />
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The kids feasted on pizza, snacks and butter beer. The butter beer recipe was super easy...cream soda, butterscotch syrup and whipped cream.<br />
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I found the glass mugs at Dollar Tree and washed them up before they went home as a souvenir. </div>
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I wanted to give each child a chocolate frog, but they were so expensive online, so I ordered a frog chocolate mold and Josie helped me make frogs.<br />
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Rather than a birthday cake, we made owl cupcakes from slivered almonds (feathers), a walnut sliver (beak) and candy eyeballs and miniature cookie wafers.<br />
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We also made golden snitches from Ferrero Rocher chocolates and taped tiny wings made from Velium paper. <br />
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<b>The Decorations</b><br />
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The store “Five Below” had Harry Potter paper products and looked great on our Great Hall table.<br />
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One of my favorite decorations was the battery operated candles hanging in our dining room. Those also came from Dollar Tree and we’ll be using these candles again at Halloween. </div>
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I also loaded Chris’s HP decorations on top of our fireplace mantle and completed the look with a bunch of Hogwart’s letters flying out of the fireplace (made from fishing line and tape).<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">After Josie opened gifts, the kids had some free play time where they ran off their sugar high on their brooms throughout the yard and posed for pictures.</span></div>
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We ended the night with about 30 minutes watching the first Harry Potter movie. </div>
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It was an awesome birthday and I honestly don’t think we can top this one.<br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-53541081681499449042017-05-25T09:45:00.002-04:002017-05-25T11:41:16.786-04:00Updates...After 8 years of blogging, I never intended on taking a leave of absence, but it just kinda happened. <br />
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Since my last post back in February, we’ve celebrated Emma’s successful first year of college. She made the Dean’s List both semesters and she even had a wonderful opportunity to study abroad in Ireland at the end of winter semester with the Social Work department.<br />
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We’re so proud of her ability to juggle academia and working two jobs. She’s pretty darn incredible. </div>
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I recently celebrated my 49th birthday. How the heck did that happen? And we’re getting ready to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary on Memorial Day. We aren’t doing anything super exciting for our milestone, but we’ll be heading to my “happy place” Aframe and I can’t wait to unplug and get away from work.<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eaRRqYZVVtc/WSbfWNJKWgI/AAAAAAAAuvM/ineZk6Av800tpNRN96n0em9N7HrM9tN8ACLcB/s1600/aframe-lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1285" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eaRRqYZVVtc/WSbfWNJKWgI/AAAAAAAAuvM/ineZk6Av800tpNRN96n0em9N7HrM9tN8ACLcB/s400/aframe-lake.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Speaking of the Aframe, it’s in the midst of a huge exterior renovation. It now has all new windows and is in the process of getting siding. <br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--4G7N3m6zPg/WSbenTfwiLI/AAAAAAAAuvA/0tu9sfLM-QwWQenAQlUHBu9gd9LjyHxMQCLcB/s1600/aframe1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--4G7N3m6zPg/WSbenTfwiLI/AAAAAAAAuvA/0tu9sfLM-QwWQenAQlUHBu9gd9LjyHxMQCLcB/s400/aframe1.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
We had hoped to save the original exterior wood and repaint, but it was too far gone and Mother Nature kept finding a way to sneak inside. With us enjoying the lake year-round, we decided to go with siding so that we didn’t have any more surprises. <br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fpqOd3BBwhc/WSbeuZfZr8I/AAAAAAAAuvE/SKIhhMv9a5oGVGQx6ILAsvaiqzxBke-mwCLcB/s1600/softball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="224" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fpqOd3BBwhc/WSbeuZfZr8I/AAAAAAAAuvE/SKIhhMv9a5oGVGQx6ILAsvaiqzxBke-mwCLcB/s400/softball.jpg" width="280" /></a><br />
Our next big celebration is Josie’s 11th birthday. If you’ve been a long time follower, you know how much I enjoy party planning. <br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QUtZDpVMxCM/WSbfBEWHraI/AAAAAAAAuvI/yRfQThTsefow5DZkVBzfWPyJ0akLpugtwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QUtZDpVMxCM/WSbfBEWHraI/AAAAAAAAuvI/yRfQThTsefow5DZkVBzfWPyJ0akLpugtwCLcB/s400/IMG_5832.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
We’ll be going ALL OUT with a Harry Potter themed event early June. Stay tuned!
I can’t promise how often I’ll keep this updated, but I’ll try to do a better job. Virtual "hugs" from Kim K.<br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-55139159135428747072017-02-14T09:19:00.001-05:002017-02-14T09:19:43.477-05:004th Annual Harry Potter Yule Ball<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8nrC90JpNEs/WKMMYiuo6fI/AAAAAAAAuWc/mfdJssELVF8jMjirYDMv8ujrCnhDdvQnwCLcB/s1600/characters-frame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8nrC90JpNEs/WKMMYiuo6fI/AAAAAAAAuWc/mfdJssELVF8jMjirYDMv8ujrCnhDdvQnwCLcB/s400/characters-frame.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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For my long time followers, you know that my husband loves Harry Potter and spends time each week reading Harry Potter during the lunch hour at two different elementary schools in his district.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivrCBszre-8/WKMMr8-iKNI/AAAAAAAAuWk/8PT9QBxXuKs_dGDCRaKnwXvPi2KMPstTACLcB/s1600/IMG_5849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivrCBszre-8/WKMMr8-iKNI/AAAAAAAAuWk/8PT9QBxXuKs_dGDCRaKnwXvPi2KMPstTACLcB/s400/IMG_5849.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"> A few weeks ago was their 4</span><sup style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">th</sup><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"> annual
Harry Potter Yule Ball. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5Q1W14qO9A/WKMM8FAUDLI/AAAAAAAAuWo/lQYbuHv6If4snss2bD9tZ98Zu6c8txL4ACLcB/s1600/IMG_5888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5Q1W14qO9A/WKMM8FAUDLI/AAAAAAAAuWo/lQYbuHv6If4snss2bD9tZ98Zu6c8txL4ACLcB/s400/IMG_5888.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Each year it gets more and more elaborate and the
crowds get larger and larger! They had over 260 kids in attendance this
year!</span><br />
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<span style="background: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CnCI6f60EY0/WKMNUjbzR3I/AAAAAAAAuWw/n3J8CvHNsFYDfMzwsT0t38LTLS_2DC6JwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CnCI6f60EY0/WKMNUjbzR3I/AAAAAAAAuWw/n3J8CvHNsFYDfMzwsT0t38LTLS_2DC6JwCLcB/s400/IMG_5894.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="background: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span><span style="background: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">The Grand Rapids Public Zoo was back with several of
their magical creatures.<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Jka9PjhAtU/WKMOb8wzX3I/AAAAAAAAuW4/zYpKjuFNDW0PJhPvBGBcIl5RBx5v8p1NwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Jka9PjhAtU/WKMOb8wzX3I/AAAAAAAAuW4/zYpKjuFNDW0PJhPvBGBcIl5RBx5v8p1NwCLcB/s400/IMG_5893.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">They even had quidditch lessons provided by the Grand
Valley State University Grindylowe’s team</span>.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Si2YpfgdrB4/WKMOpDpGQoI/AAAAAAAAuW8/BlUgw4uDWJ4cZdCs06eTJxwdm6cXW2leQCLcB/s1600/IMG_5932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Si2YpfgdrB4/WKMOpDpGQoI/AAAAAAAAuW8/BlUgw4uDWJ4cZdCs06eTJxwdm6cXW2leQCLcB/s400/IMG_5932.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14pt;">The Knight Bus was also another popular returning activity.</span><br />
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</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KtDLeNLJVFA/WKMO-O6eCHI/AAAAAAAAuXA/TgsjnJeyU_0M7Mgcya-Fm2tmIggvIysTQCLcB/s1600/IMG_5977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KtDLeNLJVFA/WKMO-O6eCHI/AAAAAAAAuXA/TgsjnJeyU_0M7Mgcya-Fm2tmIggvIysTQCLcB/s400/IMG_5977.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">As you can imagine, Chris was happy to wear his Professor
Albus Dumbledore costume all evening.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30XgGhaSS9Q/WKMPEc7hYDI/AAAAAAAAuXE/haCVID1a27ARIFftYYavXfZuImNKb49AwCLcB/s1600/chris-bridget.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30XgGhaSS9Q/WKMPEc7hYDI/AAAAAAAAuXE/haCVID1a27ARIFftYYavXfZuImNKb49AwCLcB/s400/chris-bridget.jpg" width="238" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Once again, the decorations were nothing short of
fantastic.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span> <br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9GHjmUKZB4I/WKMP1X30M5I/AAAAAAAAuXI/WxSZZGfbc00mEZcawX1vpBr0_zU-tm8UQCLcB/s1600/IMG_5884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9GHjmUKZB4I/WKMP1X30M5I/AAAAAAAAuXI/WxSZZGfbc00mEZcawX1vpBr0_zU-tm8UQCLcB/s400/IMG_5884.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
One of Chris’s
amazing colleagues even created this Hogwart’s Express from several refrigerator
boxes, while Chris supplied our Halloween fog machine for the steam.<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9cQusftJUy0/WKMP_hcOpRI/AAAAAAAAuXM/hohD9w6gBEUzrMqzGAFyM9fuaBuPEJb6gCLcB/s1600/hogwarts_express.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9cQusftJUy0/WKMP_hcOpRI/AAAAAAAAuXM/hohD9w6gBEUzrMqzGAFyM9fuaBuPEJb6gCLcB/s400/hogwarts_express.jpg" width="332" /></a></div>
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Chris and all his amazing staff/parent volunteers
really outdid themselves.<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hr7MWKipjgs/WKMQlMSv6jI/AAAAAAAAuXQ/2WLrPqYTFcsvfwz_0OyRaRoUr4HiYaqQACLcB/s1600/IMG_5869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hr7MWKipjgs/WKMQlMSv6jI/AAAAAAAAuXQ/2WLrPqYTFcsvfwz_0OyRaRoUr4HiYaqQACLcB/s400/IMG_5869.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</span>With Josie's 11th birthday happening in June, we've already decided that we will be recycling many of these activities and decorations for this year's birthday gala.<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckZS96vA9zc/WKMROmEmxfI/AAAAAAAAuXg/GQn-hozsrvk5gkxoQsCIbzbJpa-J8jE6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_5905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckZS96vA9zc/WKMROmEmxfI/AAAAAAAAuXg/GQn-hozsrvk5gkxoQsCIbzbJpa-J8jE6ACLcB/s400/IMG_5905.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Until then, have yourself a magical week! </span></span><br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-62323375654194229192017-01-29T08:58:00.005-05:002017-01-29T08:58:36.959-05:00Happy Year of the Rooster!<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2FCRPvf1b0/WI3zFI19edI/AAAAAAAAuTo/D034NzyD9fwYPEH94OFDpkIU1VVEVTi2wCLcB/s1600/lions-envelopes.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2FCRPvf1b0/WI3zFI19edI/AAAAAAAAuTo/D034NzyD9fwYPEH94OFDpkIU1VVEVTi2wCLcB/s400/lions-envelopes.JPG" /></a><br />Chinese New Year began its celebrations on January 28th. <br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Iu2z9XAqzI/WI3zI-wjHYI/AAAAAAAAuTs/4GQk7j97HgsHaAYVA5PfYKeTMQXMKrRqACLcB/s1600/josie-book.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Iu2z9XAqzI/WI3zI-wjHYI/AAAAAAAAuTs/4GQk7j97HgsHaAYVA5PfYKeTMQXMKrRqACLcB/s400/josie-book.JPG" /></a><br />This year we will be celebrating the Year of the Rooster and I’ll be visiting Josie’s 5th grade classroom first thing Tuesday morning to teach our annual lesson. <br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-glecP-1yK-4/WI3zQLnkeUI/AAAAAAAAuTw/duxjF0TLGqMWRhxWiAe7_1ZxNVdAnYBfwCLcB/s1600/ornaments.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-glecP-1yK-4/WI3zQLnkeUI/AAAAAAAAuTw/duxjF0TLGqMWRhxWiAe7_1ZxNVdAnYBfwCLcB/s400/ornaments.JPG" /></a><br />If you've followed me through the years, you know that we have a year-round decorative tree that receives multiple makeovers every other month (<i>including some made-up holidays</i>). <br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Re_bT_XCqLY/WI3zXeeV28I/AAAAAAAAuT0/ujyaILE4_mgTWaA-X1aIzINwjuwO2EsfgCLcB/s1600/liontree.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Re_bT_XCqLY/WI3zXeeV28I/AAAAAAAAuT0/ujyaILE4_mgTWaA-X1aIzINwjuwO2EsfgCLcB/s400/liontree.JPG" /></a><br />I've said this each year, but of all the trees that I display in the sunroom throughout the year, I think the CNY tree is my favorite.<br /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yBT7V2zUG3c/WI3zf6c4DaI/AAAAAAAAuT4/sLRdNMfrJxwMy3yM7austvjc6IyPHIuWgCLcB/s1600/honeycomb.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yBT7V2zUG3c/WI3zf6c4DaI/AAAAAAAAuT4/sLRdNMfrJxwMy3yM7austvjc6IyPHIuWgCLcB/s400/honeycomb.JPG" /></a><br />Wishing you good health, good luck and much happiness throughout the year!<br /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tJZgrYgEeQI/WI3zpSAQsEI/AAAAAAAAuUA/LAWJSyJQQKcpplIUFagZ9M86SAbiGZ0kgCLcB/s1600/lanterns.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tJZgrYgEeQI/WI3zpSAQsEI/AAAAAAAAuUA/LAWJSyJQQKcpplIUFagZ9M86SAbiGZ0kgCLcB/s400/lanterns.JPG" /></a><br />Happy New Year!<br /><img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" /><br />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-5497966482393611422016-12-14T20:53:00.001-05:002016-12-14T20:53:34.069-05:00A Christmas Pixie House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o2R5ORYJilk/WFH0MkOMq6I/AAAAAAAAuNg/JV1HleDoWOQTQ2SvOgoGutWOKT1jYurdwCLcB/s1600/before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o2R5ORYJilk/WFH0MkOMq6I/AAAAAAAAuNg/JV1HleDoWOQTQ2SvOgoGutWOKT1jYurdwCLcB/s400/before.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I had hinted on my last blog post that I found a dollhouse for $5 at an estate sale.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P8SvXQjB5rI/WFH0S14evcI/AAAAAAAAuNk/67CKTIriu7MKoAdeRvpJRmfT77wRspllgCLcB/s1600/before-interior.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P8SvXQjB5rI/WFH0S14evcI/AAAAAAAAuNk/67CKTIriu7MKoAdeRvpJRmfT77wRspllgCLcB/s400/before-interior.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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No. I certainly don't need any more mini houses.<br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svJQ2KXFho4/WFH0s-lIBdI/AAAAAAAAuNs/j3eBS0yJlus7uVf-NmB9oWVjVdRhym6MQCLcB/s1600/afterdoor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svJQ2KXFho4/WFH0s-lIBdI/AAAAAAAAuNs/j3eBS0yJlus7uVf-NmB9oWVjVdRhym6MQCLcB/s400/afterdoor.jpg" width="380" /></a><br />But, Josie and I needed a craft project and at $5 I couldn't leave it behind! </div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gz19XHbMb4/WFH0bM_0qzI/AAAAAAAAuNo/XZDbqdzMm8wdba9008CFg1TIrzWnA8GBACLcB/s1600/window-peek.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gz19XHbMb4/WFH0bM_0qzI/AAAAAAAAuNo/XZDbqdzMm8wdba9008CFg1TIrzWnA8GBACLcB/s400/window-peek.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />It needed to be rescued. <br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TsU5TOzjfrA/WFH03qgWE-I/AAAAAAAAuNw/V0EZgTtO40E8c_e0V5y4dD5OE_PKTL7mACLcB/s1600/kitchen-dollhouse1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TsU5TOzjfrA/WFH03qgWE-I/AAAAAAAAuNw/V0EZgTtO40E8c_e0V5y4dD5OE_PKTL7mACLcB/s400/kitchen-dollhouse1.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />It needed to be loved. <br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Gg6dboMD8o/WFH2D5ApBKI/AAAAAAAAuN4/rwuYs9pcDK8vf-hAh1gKPFfa3C7kcmzLQCLcB/s1600/pixie-cocoa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Gg6dboMD8o/WFH2D5ApBKI/AAAAAAAAuN4/rwuYs9pcDK8vf-hAh1gKPFfa3C7kcmzLQCLcB/s400/pixie-cocoa.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />And I have several pixies that needed a cute Christmas dwelling. <br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bI-f7UE5_tw/WFH2Pq9A1GI/AAAAAAAAuN8/gIxsPgPsD6ASwSyc37pLXpEVfBmvUgPLACLcB/s1600/santa-peek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bI-f7UE5_tw/WFH2Pq9A1GI/AAAAAAAAuN8/gIxsPgPsD6ASwSyc37pLXpEVfBmvUgPLACLcB/s400/santa-peek.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />It was a fun project and nearly all the materials, were items I already had in my never-ending supply of estate sale miniatures. <br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBkivK2hCW4/WFH2_kdWHCI/AAAAAAAAuOA/0v1qkcbs3M4h6PVBxNUiynmQwAK3zvKmgCLcB/s1600/pixies-fence.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBkivK2hCW4/WFH2_kdWHCI/AAAAAAAAuOA/0v1qkcbs3M4h6PVBxNUiynmQwAK3zvKmgCLcB/s400/pixies-fence.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />Merry "mini" Christmas!<br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-78093061781625672592016-11-28T22:04:00.002-05:002016-11-30T16:58:06.502-05:00Christmas decorating at the Aframe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RHasTefU6rs/WDztupyTjOI/AAAAAAAAuIs/UK2MDHPwNL4dUfXpjI11D2GiUCEPxuI_ACLcB/s1600/traderjoe1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RHasTefU6rs/WDztupyTjOI/AAAAAAAAuIs/UK2MDHPwNL4dUfXpjI11D2GiUCEPxuI_ACLcB/s400/traderjoe1.JPG" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Right before Thanksgiving, I stopped at Trader Joe’s and found this gingerbread Aframe kit. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6H2LxEQk_UU/WDzt0ls8QHI/AAAAAAAAuIw/CfFfsHIzECYYIMbwpTUq-R_eU5BBPVRyQCLcB/s1600/traderjoe2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6H2LxEQk_UU/WDzt0ls8QHI/AAAAAAAAuIw/CfFfsHIzECYYIMbwpTUq-R_eU5BBPVRyQCLcB/s400/traderjoe2.JPG" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I just knew it was meant to come to the lake with us. </span><br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ioi99ka9XSU/WDzuGozvPiI/AAAAAAAAuI0/xJzgWFitcGgiK8ImroOFZMhM_FyO6cYQACLcB/s1600/thermos-collection.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ioi99ka9XSU/WDzuGozvPiI/AAAAAAAAuI0/xJzgWFitcGgiK8ImroOFZMhM_FyO6cYQACLcB/s400/thermos-collection.JPG" width="400" /></span></a><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 107%;">I know I’ve said this before, but I love our Aframe
even more in the off-season. </span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6Aeu9ZuyyU/WDzuPwipD6I/AAAAAAAAuI4/IhObhckyhckTQAX8-oYRaJHYRMs1a0LNgCLcB/s1600/tree1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6Aeu9ZuyyU/WDzuPwipD6I/AAAAAAAAuI4/IhObhckyhckTQAX8-oYRaJHYRMs1a0LNgCLcB/s400/tree1.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />It's cozy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Ntifplu1eU/WDzujodUyvI/AAAAAAAAuJA/OMRY8zCjbEUqYTb0wsBT4AtO767ntSLpgCLcB/s1600/santa-box.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Ntifplu1eU/WDzujodUyvI/AAAAAAAAuJA/OMRY8zCjbEUqYTb0wsBT4AtO767ntSLpgCLcB/s400/santa-box.JPG" width="300" /></a></span><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">It’s quiet.<br />. </span><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b7Iw-1ahv5g/WDzutQ-1fsI/AAAAAAAAuJE/6r9w4vsR0YMfipVlUFBdnmcyoN8noA5jgCLcB/s1600/windowboxes2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b7Iw-1ahv5g/WDzutQ-1fsI/AAAAAAAAuJE/6r9w4vsR0YMfipVlUFBdnmcyoN8noA5jgCLcB/s400/windowboxes2.JPG" width="300" /></a></span><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">And it’s really fun to decorate at Christmas. </span><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-El1lw6TZ7C8/WDzu-wWev-I/AAAAAAAAuJM/YTmXF5LApeocyqKjVPnx5ZK7LCKkugg3gCLcB/s1600/aframe-exterior1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-El1lw6TZ7C8/WDzu-wWev-I/AAAAAAAAuJM/YTmXF5LApeocyqKjVPnx5ZK7LCKkugg3gCLcB/s400/aframe-exterior1.JPG" width="400" /></a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I also love being able to spread out my Christmas collections
between two places. </span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NPpdpZqpA9Q/WDzuZLAPIoI/AAAAAAAAuI8/qlIilLU4kXQi_IuDEOaulFyBCxXz_TqbACLcB/s1600/gnome.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NPpdpZqpA9Q/WDzuZLAPIoI/AAAAAAAAuI8/qlIilLU4kXQi_IuDEOaulFyBCxXz_TqbACLcB/s320/gnome.JPG" width="320" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I know these next few weeks are going to zoom by and December 25th will be here before we know it. I have a few Christmas projects to share. Josie and I have been busy in my craft room.</span><br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-thzpofijJIw/WDzvy9yYJ9I/AAAAAAAAuJU/llmDVX2xECwbmWrFcq7VbFOFhAp_UzE7ACLcB/s1600/before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-thzpofijJIw/WDzvy9yYJ9I/AAAAAAAAuJU/llmDVX2xECwbmWrFcq7VbFOFhAp_UzE7ACLcB/s400/before.JPG" width="400" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We even managed to find a $5 dollhouse that we turned into a Christmas house. </span><br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CH7AfAbT1OI/WDzv6I6CaGI/AAAAAAAAuJY/g8ZUvd5xH4Qi3F9N-OuD4FhT1uUJMVOpQCLcB/s1600/afterdoor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CH7AfAbT1OI/WDzv6I6CaGI/AAAAAAAAuJY/g8ZUvd5xH4Qi3F9N-OuD4FhT1uUJMVOpQCLcB/s400/afterdoor.jpg" width="380" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'll be back! Pinky swear!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" /></span>Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-74119751569388227412016-11-14T16:16:00.003-05:002016-11-14T16:16:51.747-05:00How did it get to be mid November?<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SS87fKXmDRc/WComMjXG8sI/AAAAAAAAuHE/3iBoyz6fK7sfvFZIwcxOSTJwGjEo2TqUgCLcB/s1600/mantle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SS87fKXmDRc/WComMjXG8sI/AAAAAAAAuHE/3iBoyz6fK7sfvFZIwcxOSTJwGjEo2TqUgCLcB/s400/mantle.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />It took me so long to pack up Halloween, that I'm kinda enjoying a cleaner minimal house right now. <i>As much as I LOVE decorating for our party, the process of packing everything back up completely stresses me out.</i><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ub8NifGlOYs/WCol2-9KdmI/AAAAAAAAuG4/kmSKS7_A2u8jal63gcZ3JMpOLhZ0RO-kgCLcB/s1600/trucks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ub8NifGlOYs/WCol2-9KdmI/AAAAAAAAuG4/kmSKS7_A2u8jal63gcZ3JMpOLhZ0RO-kgCLcB/s320/trucks.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
That being said, I can’t NOT decorate for Thanksgiving so I have a few things out.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4U7EdthcoGw/WCol8HUKxHI/AAAAAAAAuG8/jJmBc_09-zUW29y62GJfYehTkIaq0RPbgCLcB/s1600/gather.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4U7EdthcoGw/WCol8HUKxHI/AAAAAAAAuG8/jJmBc_09-zUW29y62GJfYehTkIaq0RPbgCLcB/s400/gather.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Compared to the 25+ bins of Halloween, I only have 1 bin of Thanksgiving. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KR8g7AF_IX0/WComD0TxciI/AAAAAAAAuHA/KBnxMKYj9Zsa8dyYmprojTly2FD_Q7NmwCLcB/s1600/indians.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KR8g7AF_IX0/WComD0TxciI/AAAAAAAAuHA/KBnxMKYj9Zsa8dyYmprojTly2FD_Q7NmwCLcB/s400/indians.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
When I was packing up my Halloween tree, I decided to keep up a few of my autumn garlands and it's now become my "Thanksgiving tree". <br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-36qef9vsOg8/WCon4FxepvI/AAAAAAAAuHU/givlE83Lu2UCeyLeelVIuBgI38-CeW4PwCLcB/s1600/tree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-36qef9vsOg8/WCon4FxepvI/AAAAAAAAuHU/givlE83Lu2UCeyLeelVIuBgI38-CeW4PwCLcB/s400/tree.JPG" width="300" /></a><br /> I also decided to protect my pilgrim and turkey blowmolds from the elements and they are now stationed in front of the Thanksgiving tree. <br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IWTlD3DreTc/WComYkd5nvI/AAAAAAAAuHI/Tai7R3k3Hf0k9XuNE35aMajVBMKUtclEwCLcB/s1600/blowmolds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IWTlD3DreTc/WComYkd5nvI/AAAAAAAAuHI/Tai7R3k3Hf0k9XuNE35aMajVBMKUtclEwCLcB/s400/blowmolds.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />I'm feeling blessed that my family tolerates my holiday goofiness. Gobble Gobble!<br /> <img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-38680159323404359322016-11-01T12:34:00.002-04:002016-11-01T14:39:46.942-04:00The day after Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TZ9yOLhKt5o/WBjBAEtf6XI/AAAAAAAAuEg/eALDIXJRb4w_93VQh59dY758mdXPWvnhwCLcB/s1600/eyeballs-sidewalk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TZ9yOLhKt5o/WBjBAEtf6XI/AAAAAAAAuEg/eALDIXJRb4w_93VQh59dY758mdXPWvnhwCLcB/s400/eyeballs-sidewalk.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Twas the day after Halloween</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was so much to do</div>
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The thought of packing everything up again</div>
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Made this family feel very blue.</div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GAVO16Kb4M/WBjBPhSO2MI/AAAAAAAAuEo/hZdAsYdS89E8uu_85KR-5BsFxY_MuGurwCLcB/s1600/skeletons.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GAVO16Kb4M/WBjBPhSO2MI/AAAAAAAAuEo/hZdAsYdS89E8uu_85KR-5BsFxY_MuGurwCLcB/s400/skeletons.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Potions had been made</div>
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Decorations had been bought</div>
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Pumpkins had been all the rage</div>
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Now, the ghouls have to be caught.</div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6pxU66vRs34/WBjBjhTrwpI/AAAAAAAAuEs/rvJcrgj8Fq0TH7nv86qBlFClYIqK9zN-wCLcB/s1600/girls-pumpkins.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6pxU66vRs34/WBjBjhTrwpI/AAAAAAAAuEs/rvJcrgj8Fq0TH7nv86qBlFClYIqK9zN-wCLcB/s400/girls-pumpkins.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Paper lanterns and streamers have been flying</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is sweeping to do</div>
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Stressed out Dracula is crying</div>
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For the day after Halloween he is very blue.</div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eaX70eO-rG4/WBjBsAN7FZI/AAAAAAAAuEw/F3RwK-PTiRMtWyoF-9W9ZDcy3RrdzgdPgCLcB/s1600/drac.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eaX70eO-rG4/WBjBsAN7FZI/AAAAAAAAuEw/F3RwK-PTiRMtWyoF-9W9ZDcy3RrdzgdPgCLcB/s400/drac.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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As the witches spring to their brooms and gave a whistle,</div>
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And away they all flew like the smoke of a missile.</div>
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But I heard them exclaim, as they flew out of sight,</div>
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"Happy Halloween to all, and to all a good night!"</div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ws5j3zcfluc/WBjCnFnjABI/AAAAAAAAuFA/AzVMfi9KNo4V3FMzveUFb2qWm72iwapLQCLcB/s1600/witches.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ws5j3zcfluc/WBjCnFnjABI/AAAAAAAAuFA/AzVMfi9KNo4V3FMzveUFb2qWm72iwapLQCLcB/s400/witches.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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It’s safe to say our 25th annual Halloween party was a success. </div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAxFnwy0-nc/WBjCQDS4B2I/AAAAAAAAuE8/nVPm7VasfQoiIDyP7kXYJVWg7ussvF4hACLcB/s1600/Chris-EGR-crew.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAxFnwy0-nc/WBjCQDS4B2I/AAAAAAAAuE8/nVPm7VasfQoiIDyP7kXYJVWg7ussvF4hACLcB/s400/Chris-EGR-crew.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Emma even came home from college for a few hours!</div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DD9hyqB5TUc/WBjB_PKMK6I/AAAAAAAAuE0/fZMALmWKqn0U7rSrb5jtJsXJ_iYLkRPRQCLcB/s1600/emma-josie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DD9hyqB5TUc/WBjB_PKMK6I/AAAAAAAAuE0/fZMALmWKqn0U7rSrb5jtJsXJ_iYLkRPRQCLcB/s400/emma-josie.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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We also had fantastic weather for trick-or-treating. </div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IL-N_-gCnrw/WBjDPNoBVNI/AAAAAAAAuFE/nJrsvGStX5UKPk6UVPG-XFgnnYV8UffKACLcB/s1600/garage22.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IL-N_-gCnrw/WBjDPNoBVNI/AAAAAAAAuFE/nJrsvGStX5UKPk6UVPG-XFgnnYV8UffKACLcB/s400/garage22.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
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Now, who wants to help me pack up all this chaos?</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" /></div>
Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-11534336559980546902016-10-19T12:19:00.001-04:002016-10-19T12:19:02.872-04:0010 days and counting...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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It's less than two weeks until our annual family-friendly Halloween party. </div>
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We've been busy getting things ready inside and out. <br /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cKRdXgQuy8c/WAebAuZDxfI/AAAAAAAAuBU/0vuNw6ByuisOmLQHCqsvB2Z1pm2g8vvnACLcB/s1600/mantle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cKRdXgQuy8c/WAebAuZDxfI/AAAAAAAAuBU/0vuNw6ByuisOmLQHCqsvB2Z1pm2g8vvnACLcB/s400/mantle.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />We're pushing ourselves to work on decorations when we get home from work each night (not that we really mind). <br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7iE1NkLxjU/WAebLBNgc7I/AAAAAAAAuBY/1tpB2MMR3TwQMDKCPUIj4ieEL7puWasBACLcB/s1600/sunroom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7iE1NkLxjU/WAebLBNgc7I/AAAAAAAAuBY/1tpB2MMR3TwQMDKCPUIj4ieEL7puWasBACLcB/s400/sunroom.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />I always feel like it's always a mad scramble to get everything done, but we might "almost" be ahead of schedule.<br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qeEn1G2QPMQ/WAebXKWQunI/AAAAAAAAuBc/spxAkGce5fU7tJsdya5K6iGTfIUh2KgmQCLcB/s1600/trick-treat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qeEn1G2QPMQ/WAebXKWQunI/AAAAAAAAuBc/spxAkGce5fU7tJsdya5K6iGTfIUh2KgmQCLcB/s400/trick-treat.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />Chris came home with 22 pumpkins from Aldi's last night. <br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y3B6rVYBm2I/WAebfyCw7SI/AAAAAAAAuBg/oDizo1GME2A6xQC0iQn1vTAH7aOaIJndACLcB/s1600/pumpkins-josie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y3B6rVYBm2I/WAebfyCw7SI/AAAAAAAAuBg/oDizo1GME2A6xQC0iQn1vTAH7aOaIJndACLcB/s400/pumpkins-josie.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />In case you're wondering, they really do have the best prices right now at $2.29 a pumpkin. <br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kFwjAiS01t4/WAecYfr7fcI/AAAAAAAAuBs/gZaU_EpSgSAg30RY2agoMPRaGvPqeecGwCLcB/s1600/witch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kFwjAiS01t4/WAecYfr7fcI/AAAAAAAAuBs/gZaU_EpSgSAg30RY2agoMPRaGvPqeecGwCLcB/s400/witch.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />Hard to believe how quickly this month is flying by! <br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-meqWxpCDTz8/WAecjT5UqNI/AAAAAAAAuBw/22SOHH0eInIT3y-L5nSMoZCYev7heEe5wCLcB/s1600/treehouse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-meqWxpCDTz8/WAecjT5UqNI/AAAAAAAAuBw/22SOHH0eInIT3y-L5nSMoZCYev7heEe5wCLcB/s400/treehouse.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />Halloween hugs!<br /> <img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-71250101627418288752016-10-12T10:20:00.003-04:002016-10-12T10:20:30.097-04:00Dollar Tree Ideas for HalloweenI think it's no surprise how much I enjoy visiting Dollar Tree, especially at Halloween. <br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GnwiByih-jE/V_5FQuKadOI/AAAAAAAAt_M/HYTzgk9_IXgtuATfQKYjH4l704vYpHyQgCLcB/s1600/skirtt1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GnwiByih-jE/V_5FQuKadOI/AAAAAAAAt_M/HYTzgk9_IXgtuATfQKYjH4l704vYpHyQgCLcB/s400/skirtt1.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
I had thrifted an orange tree skirt a few years ago at Goodwill and really wanted to jazz it up for Halloween. So, when I saw these felt characters, I knew they'd be perfect for my plain skirt.<br />
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I'm pretty excited with how it looks, but now Josie thinks I need to include presents under our Halloween tree. <br />
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Another recent addition to this year's Dollar Tree merchandise are these glow-in-the-dark skeleton arms and inflatable eyeballs (bought separately). <br />
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We've got several of these strategically placed around our very large yard spider and I think Chris is going back for even more. <br />
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I'm also pretty smitten with these Halloween ice cube trays. Josie and I experimented with them over the weekend using lemon/lime Faygo pop and cherry juice. Creepy and fun! Happy thrifting! Happy Halloween, friends!<br />
<img src="http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-80451759649543211972016-10-07T15:53:00.002-04:002016-10-07T15:53:53.491-04:00Estate sale finds and Halloween crafting<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j7jc0YJSg5M/V_f7f8kgxCI/AAAAAAAAt-U/5cxsEqvuhHQBeXHstnFgAIs5ML92TzkOwCLcB/s1600/ribbon-pre.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j7jc0YJSg5M/V_f7f8kgxCI/AAAAAAAAt-U/5cxsEqvuhHQBeXHstnFgAIs5ML92TzkOwCLcB/s400/ribbon-pre.JPG" /></a><br />
Last year, I purchased a box of award ribbons from estate sale land. I wasn't sure what I was going to do with them, but I loved the colors and thought I might be able to use them in some type of display at Halloween. <br />
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I recently dug through my craft room and found a few things to add to my ribbons. <br />
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I'm really happy with how they turned out and they are now part of my Halloween bunting.<br />
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I'm using mini clothes pins to hang some of my Halloween treat bags in between the ribbons. After 25 years of Halloween parties, I can't stop tweaking and creating new displays. Have a thrifty/crafty weekend, friends. <br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-83304553979299495562016-09-27T17:42:00.004-04:002016-09-28T08:13:02.815-04:00Decorating my garden shed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Even though we got a late start on our backyard garden, we were fortunate to harvest all sorts of mixed gourds and jack-be-little pumpkins. </div>
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Our humid and hot summer made for perfect growing conditions. </div>
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I decided that my garden shed needed a little fall decorating.<br />
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I haven't spent much time in my special space, so I got busy Sunday afternoon clearing out the cobwebs.<br />
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Now that it's clean again, maybe I'll bring a book outside and enjoy my cozy sanctuary.<br />
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I'm looking forward to visiting my blogging friends and seeing your fall decorations. Have a great week!<br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-14501293499991442492016-09-21T15:58:00.001-04:002016-09-21T15:58:15.723-04:00My 2016 Halloween Tree RevealIt’s that time of the year when I start getting the antsy to unpack Halloween decorations. <br />
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I spent most of last weekend getting our annual full-sized tree decorated.<br />
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Handmade ornaments mixed with lots of vintage Halloween picks collected from estate sales, fill the branches.<br />
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For those of you who have followed me as long as I've been blogging, you know that our family {loves} Halloween!<br />
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NOT the icky, scary, gross-kind of Halloween, but the fun, vintage, <span style="color: orange;"><b>Orange</b></span> and <b>Black</b> Halloween!
This year, marks our 25th annual Halloween party. <br />
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I can hardly believe we've been doing this for 25 years. </div>
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As you can see, my Halloween tree is extra full this year. It’s definitely our favorite time of the year!! <i><b>Happy "early" Halloween!
</b></i><br /><img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-43167923899332149482016-09-13T07:37:00.000-04:002016-09-14T12:33:06.589-04:00Feeling crafty!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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I've been needing some crafting time BADLY. My latest Instagram obsession is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mypapercrane/" target="_blank">Heidi Kenney</a> from<a href="http://www.mypapercrane.com/" target="_blank"> mypapercrane</a> . Although I will never quilt, or knit or sew, or design amazing fabric (<i>and she does all of these things and more</i>) she made an absolutely awesome wreath that I couldn't stop thinking about. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">You really need to go visit her </span><a href="http://www.mypapercrane.com/blog/2016/09/halloween-pumpkin-gourd-wreath/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">blog</a><span style="text-align: left;"> if you aren't following her on<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mypapercrane/" target="_blank"> Instagram</a>. Her wreath version is different from my own featured here. She's so clever!</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wR5UZYQyQ1s/V9a-uRCHJCI/AAAAAAAAt58/zTDv9RRmQZwOhuMmgYpvZzobkomQq07GgCLcB/s1600/IMG_8909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wR5UZYQyQ1s/V9a-uRCHJCI/AAAAAAAAt58/zTDv9RRmQZwOhuMmgYpvZzobkomQq07GgCLcB/s400/IMG_8909.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
You can find all sorts of faux gourds at Dollar Tree and Dollar General right now and then it's a matter of getting creative with paint and putting together some type of wreath base. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VqXczzC1MRI/V9a-hspTOjI/AAAAAAAAt50/9QQ5V83SUVEIE8gtu3GOOowG9rxCi1KsQCLcB/s1600/IMG_8911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VqXczzC1MRI/V9a-hspTOjI/AAAAAAAAt50/9QQ5V83SUVEIE8gtu3GOOowG9rxCi1KsQCLcB/s400/IMG_8911.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
The possibilities are endless! <br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5rdoPiJWNY/V9a_Dsb2mLI/AAAAAAAAt6E/_CJfb1wVoOAHCgwlitfn6AzbuUVx70g8gCLcB/s1600/IMG_8858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5rdoPiJWNY/V9a_Dsb2mLI/AAAAAAAAt6E/_CJfb1wVoOAHCgwlitfn6AzbuUVx70g8gCLcB/s400/IMG_8858.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
This is just such a fun project. Happy fall crafting!<br />
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<i>PS. I'm so behind on blog visits. The new university semester start up always kicks my butt, but I promise to start visiting again. Pinky swear. </i><br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-72763268690435328462016-08-26T12:27:00.001-04:002016-08-26T12:34:39.665-04:00College Adventures!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Thank you for all the kind words regarding the death of my father in law. Each night, we keep expecting the phone to ring and for him to ask about in our latest West MI happenings. It's going to take time. Sigh.</i></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLM9MZYM4fE/V8BpKOAIEhI/AAAAAAAAt3Q/f324qQ8GKzMyJkf8Rjhto-MkIQTLmFopQCLcB/s1600/emma-van.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLM9MZYM4fE/V8BpKOAIEhI/AAAAAAAAt3Q/f324qQ8GKzMyJkf8Rjhto-MkIQTLmFopQCLcB/s400/emma-van.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
In the midst of sadness, we are also celebrating major milestones... such as Emma's move to college!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8CTytO8zsi8/V8BpQwoAVZI/AAAAAAAAt3U/tIAhJcSK29I8dAyGjD_riNKBdTCtNeXOgCLcB/s1600/van-packed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8CTytO8zsi8/V8BpQwoAVZI/AAAAAAAAt3U/tIAhJcSK29I8dAyGjD_riNKBdTCtNeXOgCLcB/s400/van-packed.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
On Monday, we transported a very full van to the <a href="http://www.gvsu.edu/" target="_blank">GVSU</a> Allendale campus. Her dorm room is apartment style and it's pretty darn amazing! Thank you Jenny (<i>our awesome niece</i>) for suggesting that Emma request her former building. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2XuZj07hF6E/V8BpcpLTEzI/AAAAAAAAt3Y/XjHuZRZhSTwbeZF3JYQbrZzAz7mIDhKYQCLcB/s1600/emma-hayley2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2XuZj07hF6E/V8BpcpLTEzI/AAAAAAAAt3Y/XjHuZRZhSTwbeZF3JYQbrZzAz7mIDhKYQCLcB/s400/emma-hayley2.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Emma is living with her best friend. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uewCopAEAas/V8BpiMEdHPI/AAAAAAAAt3c/d9DSu3j29uEviXQert4y7CVBA55zfgdHQCLcB/s1600/bathroom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uewCopAEAas/V8BpiMEdHPI/AAAAAAAAt3c/d9DSu3j29uEviXQert4y7CVBA55zfgdHQCLcB/s400/bathroom.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
They have a private bathroom. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HyJ1EDOFo68/V8BrWF9-5bI/AAAAAAAAt3w/O1OlpbYSJuU_UVr7HktTTBH-fOXZmm0wACLcB/s1600/table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HyJ1EDOFo68/V8BrWF9-5bI/AAAAAAAAt3w/O1OlpbYSJuU_UVr7HktTTBH-fOXZmm0wACLcB/s400/table.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Decent floor space.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fo4CWJ8QLrM/V8Br6IxsXCI/AAAAAAAAt30/S5hqC9K8nEwgAtl2slVoPC448qVpDLgywCLcB/s1600/kitchen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fo4CWJ8QLrM/V8Br6IxsXCI/AAAAAAAAt30/S5hqC9K8nEwgAtl2slVoPC448qVpDLgywCLcB/s400/kitchen.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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And a mini kitchen. <i>Yes! They've successfully cooked a few mac-n-cheese meals already!</i><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13JqXRJ8IpA/V8BpuAEeDcI/AAAAAAAAt3g/gBTODsqmHu4S-FEuk_9O67nyBFHHYLLegCLcB/s1600/desk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13JqXRJ8IpA/V8BpuAEeDcI/AAAAAAAAt3g/gBTODsqmHu4S-FEuk_9O67nyBFHHYLLegCLcB/s400/desk.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Josie has had fun visiting and checking out her big sister's college desk/study space.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LFLZ4N5fl0/V8BqPkMcVNI/AAAAAAAAt3k/3EHTdDuKM-gZHyicONa9mO2LZMDK-YaJgCLcB/s1600/loft.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LFLZ4N5fl0/V8BqPkMcVNI/AAAAAAAAt3k/3EHTdDuKM-gZHyicONa9mO2LZMDK-YaJgCLcB/s400/loft.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
It's been a week of new transitions for everyone. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CgY5-D0FcCA/V8BqYJv5bmI/AAAAAAAAt3o/Yle5O4K7YuU3wE3-txLU9R5zLq-E6rjQQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CgY5-D0FcCA/V8BqYJv5bmI/AAAAAAAAt3o/Yle5O4K7YuU3wE3-txLU9R5zLq-E6rjQQCLcB/s400/IMG_2417.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Josie has missed her big sister like crazy and Emma's cat (Luna) continues to sit outside of her bedroom door each night waiting for her to come home. <br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U9UTy4yonvQ/V8BsuInuZHI/AAAAAAAAt34/V5CFpFJfMgMrFefF2s6kDraWHmFzv2iowCLcB/s1600/FAMILY2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U9UTy4yonvQ/V8BsuInuZHI/AAAAAAAAt34/V5CFpFJfMgMrFefF2s6kDraWHmFzv2iowCLcB/s400/FAMILY2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Overall, we're so excited for Emma's new college adventures. She's going to do amazing things! </div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ennRZ27VoIg/V8BtnXdeesI/AAAAAAAAt4E/Irmz5fV-8T4_iQrMSV9k2L37H2dBTn0_QCLcB/s1600/IMG_8660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ennRZ27VoIg/V8BtnXdeesI/AAAAAAAAt4E/Irmz5fV-8T4_iQrMSV9k2L37H2dBTn0_QCLcB/s400/IMG_8660.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
Go Emma, go!!! Welcome freshmen GVSU class of 2020!<br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-23572781689535602812016-08-16T22:39:00.001-04:002016-08-16T22:41:58.240-04:00A big loss...<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I've been absent from blog land. My father in law died last week. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7LXmpauDROw/V7PNIiNZxJI/AAAAAAAAt0k/xOJyWCj1cMM/s640/blogger-image--492471670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7LXmpauDROw/V7PNIiNZxJI/AAAAAAAAt0k/xOJyWCj1cMM/s400/blogger-image--492471670.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">My husband had spent the last several weeks traveling back and forth across the state and living out of hotel rooms to be closer to the hospital, but none of us really thought he would be really gone from our lives. 73 is much too young. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ym8bhxRE7aE/V7PNCEMUvpI/AAAAAAAAt0Y/o7HRdUxp4eU/s640/blogger-image-2055719193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ym8bhxRE7aE/V7PNCEMUvpI/AAAAAAAAt0Y/o7HRdUxp4eU/s400/blogger-image-2055719193.jpg" width="275" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I have to share part of the obituary that my husband wrote. Leonard Kenward will be remembered for his giving nature, his generous heart, and unwavering wish for all of his children and grandchildren to be happy and successful. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-22O2pUJgRLk/V7PNEqqsKlI/AAAAAAAAt0c/uxtcGoygwsY/s640/blogger-image-656255888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-22O2pUJgRLk/V7PNEqqsKlI/AAAAAAAAt0c/uxtcGoygwsY/s400/blogger-image-656255888.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">He was a constant thread in all of our lives and was the first person we went to in times of struggle, need, or great celebration. His presence and daily involvement in all of our lives will be greatly missed. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TnwlPuCqzMI/V7PNANH9lPI/AAAAAAAAt0U/823aIloA4pM/s640/blogger-image-486013817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TnwlPuCqzMI/V7PNANH9lPI/AAAAAAAAt0U/823aIloA4pM/s400/blogger-image-486013817.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We anticipate Heaven to be filled with lots of golfing, plenty of fishing, daily video poker, reminiscing with those who have gone before him, and lots and lots of laughter. </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MIeHutnjqgA/V7PNGgp4bAI/AAAAAAAAt0g/RrkER1c91kg/s640/blogger-image-1994400027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MIeHutnjqgA/V7PNGgp4bAI/AAAAAAAAt0g/RrkER1c91kg/s400/blogger-image-1994400027.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Goodbye, Papa. We love you lots and lots.</div>
Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-1388120599971155602016-07-15T10:38:00.002-04:002016-07-15T10:39:35.994-04:00Summer fluffing...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9eoPHo6BjTk/V4j0RJNGPGI/AAAAAAAAtxU/jPMm4IqpfQowJAWnyndOY6o2oSp_gDPCQCLcB/s1600/mantle1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9eoPHo6BjTk/V4j0RJNGPGI/AAAAAAAAtxU/jPMm4IqpfQowJAWnyndOY6o2oSp_gDPCQCLcB/s400/mantle1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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All my patriotic decorations have been packed up at home and I’ve pulled out a few of my favorite summer treasures. </div>
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A few of them were recent additions from estate sale land, including the sand pail shovel with the mermaid.
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6eI--siytg/V4j0kAyOJdI/AAAAAAAAtxg/0Y3WRgrNUyQaLMpkz-QAI6JbW5teutnmQCLcB/s1600/mantle3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6eI--siytg/V4j0kAyOJdI/AAAAAAAAtxg/0Y3WRgrNUyQaLMpkz-QAI6JbW5teutnmQCLcB/s400/mantle3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The shells were collected from our recent trip to Florida in April. The vintage sailboat teapot was a Goodwill steal. My grandmother had the exact same style teapot and I remember it fondly. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NHyCixRvDoc/V4j0cAKLJUI/AAAAAAAAtxc/IK3ripuz7f8Xpmu-GF2erPxKvmEYvb74wCLcB/s1600/mantle4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NHyCixRvDoc/V4j0cAKLJUI/AAAAAAAAtxc/IK3ripuz7f8Xpmu-GF2erPxKvmEYvb74wCLcB/s400/mantle4.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I’ve been picking aquarium figure and castles from estate sales. I just love their onion top shaped roofs. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_zDI2P3CLY4/V4j0uFLWmtI/AAAAAAAAtxk/GW76axn68QgFg7LizvLSc3aeMDrkINA1QCLcB/s1600/mantle5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_zDI2P3CLY4/V4j0uFLWmtI/AAAAAAAAtxk/GW76axn68QgFg7LizvLSc3aeMDrkINA1QCLcB/s400/mantle5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I’ve shared this picture in previous blog posts, but the little girl in the sunglasses is me with my Dad probably around 1970. Love those big purple sunglasses. <br />
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I hope you are staying cool. Have a thrifty crafty weekend, friends.
<br /><br /><img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-84168914623132785892016-07-07T09:02:00.003-04:002016-07-07T09:34:09.927-04:00Festivities at the Aframe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r120ffCPGns/V35Q_JJvYFI/AAAAAAAAtt4/Ehj0amYZId8v7VsfWJFhz00kKMV-6IbegCLcB/s1600/chairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r120ffCPGns/V35Q_JJvYFI/AAAAAAAAtt4/Ehj0amYZId8v7VsfWJFhz00kKMV-6IbegCLcB/s400/chairs.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th (or 3rd)! </div>
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The annual Hess Lake Ring of Fire and fireworks was another fantastic event and gave me a great excuse to decorate the Aframe.</div>
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<i>Like I need any excuses to decorate for a holiday (smile). </i></div>
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On my previous post, I shared our pink flamingo inflatables found at Five Below. <br />
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Of course, I had to go back and get a few more.<br />
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We've been enjoying nature's fireworks every morning from the <a href="http://kenward.blogspot.com/search/label/a-frame%20cottage" target="_blank">Aframe</a>. I hope your July has been good to you so far.<br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-25793054939593641712016-06-28T07:20:00.001-04:002016-06-28T07:29:52.773-04:00Lake life and estate sale treasures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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With all the high school graduation events finally over, we have gotten into our summer routine of heading to the Aframe and enjoying lake life as much as we can. </div>
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That also means finding a few more things from estate sales to bring to the lake.<br />
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I'm not sure where we are going to put this 8 seater toboggan sled, but it's the coolest thing and the jingle bells still jingle!<br />
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My thermos addiction continues thanks to estate sale land.<br />
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Although this has nothing to do with estate sales, Five Below is carrying these flamingo lights. Aren't they the perfect touch on our back patio?<br />
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I hope your summer is off to a good start!<br />
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Hard to believe July is nearly here! <br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-77026812664426959292016-06-21T16:51:00.002-04:002016-06-21T21:59:30.365-04:00Graduation celebrations and open house decorations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been a whirlwind of milestones at our house and now that we are officially past Emma's open house and her graduation ceremonies, I can share pictures. </div>
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Emma has always been fascinated with maps. In fact, the majority of her bedroom walls are covered in maps. <br />
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Chris asked his elementary teacher colleagues if they had any large classroom maps that he might use for Emma's graduation party. Several maps that were in school storage were magically made available and we quickly got to work covering our garage walls with painters drop cloths and maps.<br />
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One of the maps was used to gather signatures and inspirational quotes from guests and she will be bringing that to college with her next year.<br />
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Luckily the weather cooperated and despite the extreme heat, we didn't have any rain or wind to content with. I can also add tent construction to my "party planner" title. I honestly think it was a miracle that Chris and I were able to put this tent up ourselves.<br />
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In case anyone is wondering where Emma is going to college next year, here's a big hint. At this point, she's declared Social Work as a major (following in her dad's footsteps).<br />
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Her official move-in date is August 23rd and we are all excited and nervous about the upcoming changes (especially Josie). <br />
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Congratulations, Emma. We were so happy to celebrate your special day. </div>
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<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-72797296531796906432016-06-13T16:35:00.002-04:002016-06-13T16:35:39.782-04:00Nancy Drew birthday party (part 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: left;">I survived Emma’s graduation open house (</span><i style="text-align: left;">that’s a post for another day</i><span style="text-align: left;">) but I did want to get a follow-up post about Josie’s Nancy Drew mystery birthday party on the blog. <i> In case you missed it, my <a href="https://kenward.blogspot.com/2016/06/nancy-drew-birthday-party.html" target="_blank">previous blog post</a> shows all kinds of Nancy Drew party decorations. </i></span></div>
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When the invitations were mailed out, we had told the girls that they would need to help solve the mystery of Josie’s missing birthday present. With it being a slumber party, I knew we would never several different things to do to fill up the evening. <br />
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The party kicked off with the girls completing an “<b>observation game</b>”. I filled a tray with random items from our kitchen junk drawer. They were allowed to look at the tray for 1 minute, then I took the tray away and using their detective kit notepads/pens they had to list how many items they could remember. <br />
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They also had to tell us the exact colors too of the various items. The girls really got into this observation game and it's amazing how many random items we had stashed in our kitchen junk drawer. <br />
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During dinner, the doorbell rang and a telegram was left on the front porch. The telegram kicked off their series of clues. <br />
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<i> In case any of you want to do your own mystery, here are the riddles that I used. As the girls solved each riddle, they ran to that object in the house and they would find the next clue. Each girl was given a chance to solve the riddle, but they could ask for help. </i><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Clue</b><br />
Some people take me in the morning, others take me in the evening, but one thing you should know - that when I'm 'taken', I don't really go anywhere?<br />
What am I? (Shower)<br />
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<b> Clue </b><br />
What has a ring, but no finger? What am I? (Phone)<br />
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<b> Clue </b><br />
I never ask questions, but always answered. What am I? (Doorbell)<br />
<br />
<b> Clue </b><br />
What has to be broken before you can use it? What am I? (Egg)<br />
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<b>Clue </b><br />
I don’t speak, can’t hear or speak anything, but I will always tell the truth. What am I? (Mirror)<br />
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<b> Clue </b><br />
I begins with a T. <br />
I ends with a T <br />
and mostly I am full of T.<br />
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What am I? (Teapot)<br />
<br />
<b> Clue</b><br />
When I was invented, you can looking through the walls. What am I? (window)<br />
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<b> Clue </b><br />
I’m full of keys, but I can’t open any door. What am I? (Piano)<br />
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<b>Clue</b><br />
I am made of rock and shell.<br />
I gather in millions by ocean, sea and stream.<br />
<br />
What am I? (Sandbox)<br />
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<i> Josie’s wrapped birthday present (it was a watch) was left inside the sandbox and I also found a bunch of detective kits at the Dollar Tree for each child and those were left in the sandbox for the girls. </i><br />
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The girls also got to put their detective kit flashlights to use playing "<b>find the bomb</b>". To make the bomb, I wrapped 3 empty paper towels with a rubber band and attached them to our mini meat grilling thermometers. When it got dusk outside, the girls were divided into teams and each team took a turn hiding the bomb in our front yard. The other teams could use their flashlights to find the hidden bomb. Using a kitchen timer, each team had 3 minutes to find the hidden bomb. <br />
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Before bed, the girls then watched the 2007 (<i>Emma Roberts</i>) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0479500/" target="_blank">Nancy Drew</a> movie. <br />
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I'd love to tell you that they all went to bed really good, but I was up several times during the night (including 4am) reminding them to go to sleep. <i>I had also forgotten just how loud 9 & 10 year olds can be. Wow!!</i> All in all, a successful slumber birthday party and I can't believe my baby is now in double digits! </div>
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Happy 10th birthday, Josie! We love you so very much. </div>
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-43151624188473027302016-06-02T09:02:00.001-04:002016-06-02T09:02:46.446-04:00Nancy Drew birthday partyOver the last few weeks, we've had Emma's 18th birthday, my birthday, our 24th wedding anniversary and a slew of graduation events. <br />
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This week we are celebrating Emma's official commencement graduation ceremony from high school, my parent's 50th wedding anniversary and I'm hosting a Nancy Drew themed birthday party for Josie's upcoming 10th birthday. </div>
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Yes, I'm officially crazy. Yes, I've been burning the midnight oil trying to squeeze everything in while also working. <br />
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Back in March, during National Reading month, Josie was asked to dress up as a favorite book character and she enjoyed being Nancy Drew. <br />
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When she asked to have a Nancy Drew Mystery birthday party, I was thrilled. <br />
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Josie's guests will receiving detective kits to help solve the case of Josie's missing birthday present.<br />
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Most of the party supplies came from the Dollar Tree and with the help of Google images and a load of glue sticks, I came up with some fun mystery decorations.<br />
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Josie's party is being held Friday night and I'll try and do a follow-up post that includes the mystery and the clues. </div>
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And I promise I will get back to visiting blogs again once I get through Emma's graduation open house. Until then, I'm riding the crazy train! Be well, friends!<br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-61242971194623086562016-05-28T08:49:00.003-04:002016-05-28T08:49:34.834-04:00Getting crafty for graduation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've been busy getting our house and yard in order for Emma's senior graduation open house. Last weekend, we hauled 15 yards of mulch.</div>
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It's my least favorite thing to do, but the flower beds and our backyard woods do look all nice and tidy again.<br />
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Emma wanted something different to use for picture boards to display at her upcoming open house. Chris found a couple of screen doors at a local thrift store and after painting them, he removed the screen and replace it with chicken wire. <br />
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Tiny clothes pins found at the Dollar Tree attach the photos to the chicken wire. <br />
The doors are hinged together so that they can stand up. <br />
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Because I needed a glue gun fix, I ended up making a bunting to hang across the doors. I think it turned out really neat and Emma has been having fun going through photo albums to find pictures to hang on her doors.<br />
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Although she doesn't graduate until June 2nd, her school held a senior assembly this past Thursday. What a beautiful event and the weather was perfect for outdoor photos. <br />
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It's nonstop celebrations right now. <br />
<img src="https://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-87478143564064369492016-05-20T07:06:00.000-04:002016-05-22T07:43:21.583-04:00A new holiday for my year-round tree!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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My long time followers know that I have a year-round tree that stays up in my sunroom.<br />
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In years past during the month of May, the tree has been decorated with various birthday themes.<br />
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This year, my tree is celebrating a brand new holiday...Emma's senior graduation!<br />
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We're so proud of all her accomplishments and wonderful friends. </div>
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Between all her sports, marching band, student committees and retail job, she's been a busy and successful young lady. <br />
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Graduation officially happens June 2nd but until then, we've been celebrating all sorts of special senior events. <br />
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We're so proud of you, Emma! <br />
<img src="http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png" />Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4266226909419258314.post-19360025211009763202016-05-11T14:41:00.004-04:002016-05-11T22:58:31.866-04:00Backyard magic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Over the weekend, my sister gave me several new toadstool solar lights for my backyard gnome garden. </div>
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I also found a pair of mini plastic flamingos at Shopco (<i>rumor has it they are also available at Camping World and some Dollar Tree stores</i>). <br><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6zTywdV5aE/VzN7Aw3LyxI/AAAAAAAAtaw/WSnxrjsDTp8I55TAOjfep3q7VyZuAH4awCLcB/s1600/IMG_7465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6zTywdV5aE/VzN7Aw3LyxI/AAAAAAAAtaw/WSnxrjsDTp8I55TAOjfep3q7VyZuAH4awCLcB/s400/IMG_7465.JPG" width="400"></a><br>With all my new backyard accessories, the gnome house and all the plantings received a good spring cleaning. <i>Yes. I might have taken some of these pictures in my pajamas. I realize I am a dork and it's a good thing that my gnome garden is in the backyard woods and that only a few birds and small creatures witnessed this photo shoot. </i> <br><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQc_VhAS_0I/VzN7H8m1mCI/AAAAAAAAta0/tbPj_lTWM5U_Zy7z8jEED4f-Ax4mOoUhQCLcB/s1600/IMG_7466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQc_VhAS_0I/VzN7H8m1mCI/AAAAAAAAta0/tbPj_lTWM5U_Zy7z8jEED4f-Ax4mOoUhQCLcB/s400/IMG_7466.JPG" width="400"></a><br>I promise to try and catch up on blog reading. May is my hectic month of faculty development and spring semester classes. I haven't had much blogging time lately. Don't give up on me!<br><img src="http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr13/kenwardk/signature_words-frame.png">Musings from Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/09125473702962679391noreply@blogger.com14