tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4416100841286123432024-03-17T22:03:55.787-05:00Minne-MamaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-8865133348312050222015-10-30T08:00:00.000-05:002015-10-30T08:00:01.263-05:00Peek-a-BOO Ghost Match<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
We are right in the middle of moving to a new house. With all of the craziness that comes with buying, selling, packing, and moving with two little ones, I haven't been making a lot of activities for Skyler and we have been relying more on finding new ways to play with all of our toys. That got a little harder when we started packing up as many toys as possible in preparation for our move. When trying to think of some simple activities we could do with what we still have at home, this match game came to mind.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yYb5reKQQwEnWbBXHJreDQX-2IkbmTAp0MoCiR3lZOStW6jYpSNIEv2QCk8LEugejFfdrfp9AnzVwuvMzAyofKsjaJic17NUzrk69u5n-oO6fSoz6XJwi89jhmm_GmIOy4P2hHN1OLg/s1600/Peek-a-BOO1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yYb5reKQQwEnWbBXHJreDQX-2IkbmTAp0MoCiR3lZOStW6jYpSNIEv2QCk8LEugejFfdrfp9AnzVwuvMzAyofKsjaJic17NUzrk69u5n-oO6fSoz6XJwi89jhmm_GmIOy4P2hHN1OLg/s400/Peek-a-BOO1.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have been reading and playing a lot with the theme of Halloween and Skyler is very interested in ghosts lately. I decided to have a fun little number match and scavenger hunt. This could easily be done after Halloween with pumpkins for fall, ornaments for a Christmas tree, Easter eggs, etc. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5LMyi5a5kXnNR-p0ej6jbcwb_qjWllPw1c7iA10Vlevzz_l8mX7TmrssNGvrjSuN6NUAZHzP2YjqlM7ky2HkeB0BWx71QzbzBNR1xqNltYN6LO242FgKlCcN3VYVB1yBob_NSYT2eg8/s1600/Peek-a-BOO2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5LMyi5a5kXnNR-p0ej6jbcwb_qjWllPw1c7iA10Vlevzz_l8mX7TmrssNGvrjSuN6NUAZHzP2YjqlM7ky2HkeB0BWx71QzbzBNR1xqNltYN6LO242FgKlCcN3VYVB1yBob_NSYT2eg8/s400/Peek-a-BOO2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I had already packed up all of our construction paper, contact paper, and other crafty items I usually use to make games for Skyler, but then I remembered we had our easel still. To make this craft game, I cut out one ghost shape and then traced and cut ten ghosts out of one piece of easel paper, then traced ten more onto a new piece. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEj5Yq948XzIrl-KD4HKajebb2cNCOmM7x0h3-zpYJExuvlkGbguNWZiEwaKecfnc2qYJgmvH-bC5Ju_shyphenhyphenOB1vYP2YTax6R3mkdXsI0rwG9r3DEHQuLCjIynpEXnJyHgAMP9ArIdiddo/s1600/Peek-a-BOO3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEj5Yq948XzIrl-KD4HKajebb2cNCOmM7x0h3-zpYJExuvlkGbguNWZiEwaKecfnc2qYJgmvH-bC5Ju_shyphenhyphenOB1vYP2YTax6R3mkdXsI0rwG9r3DEHQuLCjIynpEXnJyHgAMP9ArIdiddo/s400/Peek-a-BOO3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I happened to make each one a different color, but this was definitely more of a number match for Skyler. If your little one is younger, you could use less numbers or just have it as a color match! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlqae3ctHeJ2KKigpcdPvWhk2U5zafxqfrhrdOZHxF0zefCyrRIG_AKRkGZpKNSL4ZIPM2uSFessUs-6GkdrVqb_Aiy570REAcFJLYpuHYEDhyobtLVAKtB0SrjTGWd7kjSjUcmw75Ew/s1600/Peek-a-BOO4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlqae3ctHeJ2KKigpcdPvWhk2U5zafxqfrhrdOZHxF0zefCyrRIG_AKRkGZpKNSL4ZIPM2uSFessUs-6GkdrVqb_Aiy570REAcFJLYpuHYEDhyobtLVAKtB0SrjTGWd7kjSjUcmw75Ew/s320/Peek-a-BOO4.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyT577QHh-oMzZURy7XebWObNpGjEulAqGVyfEBUYrHME1YKVxVzhQxhwucznFPHIxcr3rHi7_4Aq7G1VsjvjE6F2wJ28H4Jy2zLUthHSNzrE3EGLd8XHRbLNFixHlfrO9jSvs95Y8EAM/s1600/Peek-a-BOO5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyT577QHh-oMzZURy7XebWObNpGjEulAqGVyfEBUYrHME1YKVxVzhQxhwucznFPHIxcr3rHi7_4Aq7G1VsjvjE6F2wJ28H4Jy2zLUthHSNzrE3EGLd8XHRbLNFixHlfrO9jSvs95Y8EAM/s320/Peek-a-BOO5.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hid the ten ghosts around our living room with pieces of tape and Skyler had so much fun running around and collecting his ghosts. I thought he would have to work a little harder to match the numbers, but he would look at it while he ran to the easel and by the time he made it there, he already knew exactly where to put it. I might have to go up to 15 or 20 on our next number match! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkRQz1tbtb27EMhLXBvuaGEZG318jkjBv6dkuPgRSAk29klyDHI8ro4AQ30O-CWUve2ajyqGaRoyzTUonFi-eXnGxRZONQYG5EXnbj8rcx2j0SWP8MnmrVq2YCL8xzTneb358tWERGRJ4/s1600/Peek-a-BOO6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkRQz1tbtb27EMhLXBvuaGEZG318jkjBv6dkuPgRSAk29klyDHI8ro4AQ30O-CWUve2ajyqGaRoyzTUonFi-eXnGxRZONQYG5EXnbj8rcx2j0SWP8MnmrVq2YCL8xzTneb358tWERGRJ4/s320/Peek-a-BOO6.jpg" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1oFqlRXhn4ZoTQaPbZLuZtsPGH1Q8k8bi6YS_tOlZruDtE_UkuXUzmXaABHMR-OCbI6vjlrO4k4zS2eHy4q5jOP9JsHJB1spZTWJGbSYRyDWPqHMQv6jrb7dHSu6AWYZ6BeFBAWBjaE/s1600/Peek-a-BOO7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1oFqlRXhn4ZoTQaPbZLuZtsPGH1Q8k8bi6YS_tOlZruDtE_UkuXUzmXaABHMR-OCbI6vjlrO4k4zS2eHy4q5jOP9JsHJB1spZTWJGbSYRyDWPqHMQv6jrb7dHSu6AWYZ6BeFBAWBjaE/s320/Peek-a-BOO7.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4xOC3UE9Nt4QlZHXlnT-IgPCWAAbC_xndVN5LK1N3wXotWZqo5aC10hLYEGGUcxf7aD6ySITrCgUC_YCHyhbcfZshIwKcQXP0R7U46n7wfV4dREyfqTtGOAkSQpwHrHvPP3HfNL-sfY/s1600/Peek-a-BOO8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4xOC3UE9Nt4QlZHXlnT-IgPCWAAbC_xndVN5LK1N3wXotWZqo5aC10hLYEGGUcxf7aD6ySITrCgUC_YCHyhbcfZshIwKcQXP0R7U46n7wfV4dREyfqTtGOAkSQpwHrHvPP3HfNL-sfY/s320/Peek-a-BOO8.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemTnfYlC3BZbtHxv1YTRWGf64eYSnf5d8NV_8br8-WYYu19WvpnUbLRHNTd06_mSBfFJZrCGCcsCssTF4b2cAto0pQCmt7osMMEW5J6q0lrTSS6n3jGkkjIF4CXA20uy6ARDMVsgcq28/s1600/Peek-a-BOO9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemTnfYlC3BZbtHxv1YTRWGf64eYSnf5d8NV_8br8-WYYu19WvpnUbLRHNTd06_mSBfFJZrCGCcsCssTF4b2cAto0pQCmt7osMMEW5J6q0lrTSS6n3jGkkjIF4CXA20uy6ARDMVsgcq28/s320/Peek-a-BOO9.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
This face when he found the last one hiding behind the couch just makes me smile!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBDOq56LBcJuexQwXQ3tCQPaHLLGmMn9GTAN1scwVjUVkx9VUP9cOuQ4WsluDXsOoCQDgHp_qaOlyADiosJ38VDMvawefpSWjZLGcW4FinTtkyUsGoDovaKAjXavVOp8Ergak1-5IZic/s1600/Peek-a-BOO10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBDOq56LBcJuexQwXQ3tCQPaHLLGmMn9GTAN1scwVjUVkx9VUP9cOuQ4WsluDXsOoCQDgHp_qaOlyADiosJ38VDMvawefpSWjZLGcW4FinTtkyUsGoDovaKAjXavVOp8Ergak1-5IZic/s400/Peek-a-BOO10.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even though I just used tape, we have been able to use the ghosts a few times! To make the game last longer, you could laminate or cover the ghosts in contact paper, or use velcro in place of tape. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOhcOcnBPHINvy20vastbXuFHSAtZBcgrP6DCSBeefsqlZxpqv9J1voeSk8IFykRrMeu9i_MVO2bAXt5L78-yhu8bSAHmv5h6_SOkVIRsZC6SVK-wjiHoFOwf1kyr-JbosgArGp9ZleFw/s1600/Peek-a-BOO11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOhcOcnBPHINvy20vastbXuFHSAtZBcgrP6DCSBeefsqlZxpqv9J1voeSk8IFykRrMeu9i_MVO2bAXt5L78-yhu8bSAHmv5h6_SOkVIRsZC6SVK-wjiHoFOwf1kyr-JbosgArGp9ZleFw/s400/Peek-a-BOO11.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R2SEwIdtihRL7qBijofolN7I5jtCnM9DvyDAqXy49Cck3Ed3vXWP4H8KZ9nuZmoCgm8s_Y_ESA_qvBSHoDBRFxdzd0gwnpuSSFWsRNCTNBbAP9ww-o8W3B7oIGgLePELeiGBCSoOPF0/s1600/Peek-a-BOO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R2SEwIdtihRL7qBijofolN7I5jtCnM9DvyDAqXy49Cck3Ed3vXWP4H8KZ9nuZmoCgm8s_Y_ESA_qvBSHoDBRFxdzd0gwnpuSSFWsRNCTNBbAP9ww-o8W3B7oIGgLePELeiGBCSoOPF0/s640/Peek-a-BOO.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-24215882283552786732015-10-28T08:00:00.000-05:002015-10-28T13:49:22.322-05:00Non-Edible Halloween Treat<span id="goog_166330512"></span><span id="goog_166330513"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last year around Halloween, Skyler and I made play dough Halloween treats for his ECFE class. I used baby food jars and <a href="https://instagram.com/p/uvret1jvDK/?taken-by=hayleygrady">they were really cute</a>. We were in class with the parents, so I just handed each of them a jar. This year in his preschool class, they put them in a bag and then send the bag home. I didn't want any bags getting dropped with glass jars in them, so I chose a more safe (and much less time consuming) way to package our play dough.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-FLMcq4FrKI6ijNI6oMNQWqaU2nEaQEf7SeAtM6Ciqn1of0ek5NyFkDnlGrqfix1j-SGQadhfWsX3P3Z3itjRlMi-lgewMB1X6JLR6XmMi-ucn7URVwaRmSFbKz5XSH9VfTGj3NfQj8/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-FLMcq4FrKI6ijNI6oMNQWqaU2nEaQEf7SeAtM6Ciqn1of0ek5NyFkDnlGrqfix1j-SGQadhfWsX3P3Z3itjRlMi-lgewMB1X6JLR6XmMi-ucn7URVwaRmSFbKz5XSH9VfTGj3NfQj8/s320/unnamed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been wanting to make this awesome <a href="http://www.funathomewithkids.com/2015/05/easiest-ever-5-minute-microwave.html">microwave play dough from Fun at Home with Kids</a> since the first time I saw the video on their Facebook page, and I can't believe I waited almost six months to try it! When I heard Skyler's preschool was having a Halloween dress up and treat day (non-edible items allowed only), I jumped at the opportunity to make some fun homemade play dough "treats."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYqh8vymIYn4zfYd2qP2PUrzRC4cuqLXZhZ3ZzXiqP8s11Tvnmp9A5xM8lTKj2z7OKohBC_MjsdIbf27s4TXMn0HLJyBR2rWT6OQk8Ac023GA9SD40Aaot1v6GVHcJltrk-GeWPZzpz4/s1600/Playdough2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYqh8vymIYn4zfYd2qP2PUrzRC4cuqLXZhZ3ZzXiqP8s11Tvnmp9A5xM8lTKj2z7OKohBC_MjsdIbf27s4TXMn0HLJyBR2rWT6OQk8Ac023GA9SD40Aaot1v6GVHcJltrk-GeWPZzpz4/s400/Playdough2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler and I followed the play dough recipe, adding yellow and red food coloring and pumpkin pie spice to make ours into little scented Jack-o-lanterns. Skyler is a great helper when we make play dough. He loves to measure, pour, mix, and especially knead the finished dough. This recipe is so simple and makes a great play dough to explore with! Skyler enjoyed playing with his Halloween cookie cutters while I put our treat bags together. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All you need to make these non-edible Halloween treat bags are:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Orange <a href="http://www.funathomewithkids.com/2015/05/easiest-ever-5-minute-microwave.html">microwave play dough</a> (add the pumpkin pie spice for extra fun!)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Snack baggies</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Black and green sharpies</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
(Optional) Stickers for a gift tag</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN82qmtT1JYKnx7TvKgeiFZ7nahO50Mhm3UcBDrHptVCS_4evgf80s4eLmTLfAhseMh0enB-HNjIvZxKdregh_jbUSddaZ6UhvX5G3JRs5i6KIKnETx_ZUcAkNnSyciCo7ATXvjCwXUMI/s1600/Playdough3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN82qmtT1JYKnx7TvKgeiFZ7nahO50Mhm3UcBDrHptVCS_4evgf80s4eLmTLfAhseMh0enB-HNjIvZxKdregh_jbUSddaZ6UhvX5G3JRs5i6KIKnETx_ZUcAkNnSyciCo7ATXvjCwXUMI/s400/Playdough3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I made the dough into sixteen little balls, stuck one ball in each snack bag, smashed it down into a puck and closed the bag. Then I drew a simple jack-o-lantern face and green stem on the bag. You could just leave it at that, but I had some cute stickers too, so I cut them into strips and wrote on the back as a gift tag. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRB6s9jmTox11Jqi7dJTqrsZF2_LJkD-Pu9QQ0oCrZIwx0zvL_FYJa96HAwvA-0oE_NVrAWCmdMUW-qEbWchn-ElD03tauWoloKoMnhGOuOE_dAii7aVEZS9FXgYY8-Qtn_aO4TNd_RI/s1600/Playdough4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRB6s9jmTox11Jqi7dJTqrsZF2_LJkD-Pu9QQ0oCrZIwx0zvL_FYJa96HAwvA-0oE_NVrAWCmdMUW-qEbWchn-ElD03tauWoloKoMnhGOuOE_dAii7aVEZS9FXgYY8-Qtn_aO4TNd_RI/s400/Playdough4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
From start to finish including making the play dough, this only took about half an hour and we doubled the play dough recipe, so we have a lot of dough to play with at home too! We had a lot of fun putting these together, and Skyler can't wait to give a bag to each of his friends at school!<i></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQ05R3oLZuQr5tgwpgv6K6UCA4BGLHhYmkQp3ooaWwQNpIXyM4GntQnaz0ucw2t8ZmSJtQuPtuwjHZiW_9-kHK0yyOsnwcraiTAERwd2GHVNHjauG6bJ403lHNtLw_vayW7c6bezLSGI/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQ05R3oLZuQr5tgwpgv6K6UCA4BGLHhYmkQp3ooaWwQNpIXyM4GntQnaz0ucw2t8ZmSJtQuPtuwjHZiW_9-kHK0yyOsnwcraiTAERwd2GHVNHjauG6bJ403lHNtLw_vayW7c6bezLSGI/s400/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-5458660093163324652015-07-22T22:05:00.001-05:002015-07-23T15:33:43.394-05:00Simple Bowling Game<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wow! I didn't think that after Emerson's arrival I would be taking such a long break. Being the single parent of a toddler (/preschooler) and newborn (/baby) is no joke, and while my boys make it as easy on me as possible, unfortunately I have not had time to create and blog as I would have liked! Even though I had many ideas, they just never ended up being written about, and although I would like to say that I have a bunch of stuff coming up soon, I'm not sure when I will be getting back to regular posting. I have been thinking about it more and more lately. I think the deployment has been a big part of my lack of motivation here, and it is very possible that Joe's homecoming will be just what I need to get back into it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But...this bowling game! I am almost embarrassed to share, it is that simple. Skyler has absolutely loved this lately though! All you need to play is a chunky wood puzzle (we have done it with this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E9DPCW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000E9DPCW&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=2R5F6UQOPETKOXMQ">Melissa & Doug Farm Wooden Chunky Puzzle</a>, and also with the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EK5AEC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000EK5AEC&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=VI5AQHBLYMTE2F53">Melissa & Doug Vehicles Chunky Wooden Puzzle</a>) with semi-smooth bottoms on the pieces and a ball (or ball and bat as Skyler preferred). A little hockey set would work to (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000O15GWC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000O15GWC&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=M7WQEBAEPCWSO2WD">We love this hockey stick and ball set!</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKIGz9SvgFKnl75T-N0gdVdkc0hjV9GfJs_6BtgxstIIPST4tKvFzYlNV6YldPF33eSMjNY95Afd0FJ_BE9aaiL33s6UmVJdxp6llR4D5tbAazMyziKJHKZ9zfvFlK1HoL7QAWMIwm74/s1600/Bowling1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKIGz9SvgFKnl75T-N0gdVdkc0hjV9GfJs_6BtgxstIIPST4tKvFzYlNV6YldPF33eSMjNY95Afd0FJ_BE9aaiL33s6UmVJdxp6llR4D5tbAazMyziKJHKZ9zfvFlK1HoL7QAWMIwm74/s400/Bowling1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.</i></span></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were playing in the living room during Emerson's nap one morning and as we were playing and talking I started to stand the puzzle pieces up. Skyler asked what I was doing and happened to have the ball and bat in his hands and voila! Our new favorite game was created. We have been playing frequently in our free time (not that we have had much of it lately, we are pretty much always out of the house! Soaking up as much of the sun as we can this summer.)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3DZLKe9rtTGZTVgoGNrLoJ04ohOEK4J0tgbdJ0uLZPwsCQ86M_nz-YBn8Qs8iMdJkAmJ4vJuWVzbwoDBmQA75__yw8-sxnmPt3nEegfm6rwhLxWGBZbPzzPmFnSE6TkyMV1DHteyx0Q/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3DZLKe9rtTGZTVgoGNrLoJ04ohOEK4J0tgbdJ0uLZPwsCQ86M_nz-YBn8Qs8iMdJkAmJ4vJuWVzbwoDBmQA75__yw8-sxnmPt3nEegfm6rwhLxWGBZbPzzPmFnSE6TkyMV1DHteyx0Q/s400/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<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/AVvXsEhRaqvLPZQDlLUHnsI7Iq_LOrBQ5ViKpBO5lRiYD3X2I4T-CX7ni3fGQE04cyNrgcYjVo3GpihZS3bu16kEGaoq4u7dAnYBzNEW5nLCX88NFLI_ESJ84DVjTkX4yjonOPhky6i7BrE9Muo/s1600/Bowling6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRaqvLPZQDlLUHnsI7Iq_LOrBQ5ViKpBO5lRiYD3X2I4T-CX7ni3fGQE04cyNrgcYjVo3GpihZS3bu16kEGaoq4u7dAnYBzNEW5nLCX88NFLI_ESJ84DVjTkX4yjonOPhky6i7BrE9Muo/s400/Bowling6.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King of the bowling game!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
And one more, because the tongue just makes me laugh! Every picture - tongue hanging out!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZIR6IJsDrw3lNiL1zpr1h4Z3LUyr4euwwwvQ4CgQ3kGOzd8TEd0mpq6kmGnupiZr83vN1CO9L153I6VgrDyplwG8039ZVa3s_JOJkbaPt5nle5fuNgIgx92xCt4uY1vBt0_hzA3Y3YQ/s1600/Bowling2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZIR6IJsDrw3lNiL1zpr1h4Z3LUyr4euwwwvQ4CgQ3kGOzd8TEd0mpq6kmGnupiZr83vN1CO9L153I6VgrDyplwG8039ZVa3s_JOJkbaPt5nle5fuNgIgx92xCt4uY1vBt0_hzA3Y3YQ/s400/Bowling2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Depending on the puzzle you use (shapes, colors, etc.), you can easily make this more of a learning activity and not just a game by calling out "try to knock down the animal that says "moo" or "knock down the piece that is red." Or when several pieces come down, ask the child the question then. "Which animal sounds do those make?" or "What colors (shapes, animals) did you knock down?" <br />
<br />
Little brother didn't get to play the bowling game, but we did have fun with blocks on the same day. He sure has changed a lot <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/12/hes-here.html">in the past seven months</a>! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20q9C7lFI3AYIgZH6rx9yEpOI5WcPX14bzgjON8Na8AU1FJgDYeLcD740m10qKDJXn27Y6OqF6Zoqi5RGwRYsRZOcGK1VI_PX4PW-WyaNzu7aI8aUmpGC2L4m9nFzYuBow6crY68471I/s1600/Bowling7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20q9C7lFI3AYIgZH6rx9yEpOI5WcPX14bzgjON8Na8AU1FJgDYeLcD740m10qKDJXn27Y6OqF6Zoqi5RGwRYsRZOcGK1VI_PX4PW-WyaNzu7aI8aUmpGC2L4m9nFzYuBow6crY68471I/s400/Bowling7.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We moved Emerson's crib into Skyler's room and they have been sleeping in the same room together since Sunday! First two days were not so good, but each day has gotten better! If I get it more organized/cute I may have to do another room post, since I love taking pictures of it (Like <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2013/12/post-christmas-organization.html">here</a>, <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/01/bedroom-progress.html">here</a>, <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/01/toddler-friendly-toy-labels.html">here</a>, <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/01/closet-reveal.html">here</a>, and <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/08/big-boy-bed.html">here</a>!) My favorite room in the house! We are taking up every single inch of our tiny space, but I just love our home. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even though I haven't been posting here, I post frequently on Instagram. You can find me <a href="https://instagram.com/hayleygrady/">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you want more bowling fun, <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/05/homemade-bowling-game_14.html">you can find our homemade bowling game here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpcM6cxffy1lMhQ4o3QvMC56yJFa81OuqhMnoRmaWDicEpf14ti2PXLXFjozEF3J7GXYVS67vd0tnpy94tXndl9hGSC8VkYgugBhln9ATEjv9er8anzi9vRw2XqcpIg5dqPYE-bH2D_HA/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpcM6cxffy1lMhQ4o3QvMC56yJFa81OuqhMnoRmaWDicEpf14ti2PXLXFjozEF3J7GXYVS67vd0tnpy94tXndl9hGSC8VkYgugBhln9ATEjv9er8anzi9vRw2XqcpIg5dqPYE-bH2D_HA/s400/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" width="146" /></a></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-37949795876795637522014-12-18T13:35:00.002-06:002014-12-18T13:35:56.265-06:00He's Here!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuL2AVkKEVTsPY6qV3Bj-BcYLgMrUMxxz2s3TvjJEYXSHIf_GHLe1Iyb-WkI2sXgq_2JSZUSOf11PyzauYy79VLTBhRdsvSS5acuiA5glV80xe-IYQgvG8t4Y4bGY8Li8OSynSM8j09U/s1600/Emerson+Leo+Just+Letters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuL2AVkKEVTsPY6qV3Bj-BcYLgMrUMxxz2s3TvjJEYXSHIf_GHLe1Iyb-WkI2sXgq_2JSZUSOf11PyzauYy79VLTBhRdsvSS5acuiA5glV80xe-IYQgvG8t4Y4bGY8Li8OSynSM8j09U/s1600/Emerson+Leo+Just+Letters.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been a whirlwind of a week since the arrival of baby boy #2. Emerson Leo arrived very early in the morning on December 11, with daddy there via FaceTime for the entire labor and delivery. We have been home since Friday afternoon and are getting quickly back to our normal routine after taking a weekend to acclimate. Music class on Tuesday, a trip to Minneapolis on the train to see Santa Wednesday, and ECFE this morning! Skyler is such a proud big brother and it has been so fun to watch him interact with his baby brother. He loves to hold the baby while giving him a lots of hugs and kisses. He is so helpful with everything I do from changing to burping and soothing, he is such a doting brother and it makes me cry almost everyday, it is just so sweet! I am completely smitten with my little Emerson and have been enjoying a ton of new baby cuddles and smells. He is so yummy! Some favorite pictures from the past few days. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHW7nxF8iEnB7lUvDuCHesO8bJlwIN-X_kax9qINB0TmjReKQ6XxjzJZ_cYKRoppJV3EI1YUlsI9toE3N29tqUivs4bvbJl_6RLcrfRSejgsXM8kL4HcIE-GOvBiXTVI1tTJrevovN1fc/s1600/DSC_0299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHW7nxF8iEnB7lUvDuCHesO8bJlwIN-X_kax9qINB0TmjReKQ6XxjzJZ_cYKRoppJV3EI1YUlsI9toE3N29tqUivs4bvbJl_6RLcrfRSejgsXM8kL4HcIE-GOvBiXTVI1tTJrevovN1fc/s1600/DSC_0299.JPG" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<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/AVvXsEjJciWrBZLaEzLdIbeSe1Ln5_FGXpona6S5ScYTO4lfA9v9AA1B5v1GD1ONf04RY3MpE_BzMQg7jmljsJnLKPqAJEUgUbDAPxFI-8T3sYR-cTonl54tOwWwNXOuaHKrHqc3iuPIN9oAtxk/s1600/DSC_0335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJciWrBZLaEzLdIbeSe1Ln5_FGXpona6S5ScYTO4lfA9v9AA1B5v1GD1ONf04RY3MpE_BzMQg7jmljsJnLKPqAJEUgUbDAPxFI-8T3sYR-cTonl54tOwWwNXOuaHKrHqc3iuPIN9oAtxk/s1600/DSC_0335.JPG" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Talking to Daddy on FaceTime</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhci01LHK68V9dIUqCH_3KXsBPLVgPSMS7ThYvWJ6ux8scGKnfUYt9Uq_oozgzCMuAZFY22xB4e1CXtbvbfNoQfsqwFxps3rTQKOhBtSy-Pu-OcYyJlumCQUrtXzNognWNbJplij_HO2Vo/s1600/DSC_0384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhci01LHK68V9dIUqCH_3KXsBPLVgPSMS7ThYvWJ6ux8scGKnfUYt9Uq_oozgzCMuAZFY22xB4e1CXtbvbfNoQfsqwFxps3rTQKOhBtSy-Pu-OcYyJlumCQUrtXzNognWNbJplij_HO2Vo/s1600/DSC_0384.JPG" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxi7gcHSRxRw2OOlpTrKAE-g8NgiTPyjUFgGxVqD49TkcGIEum-VZzKneDHxUbM158DUR4vDna2A3zhygMENo6ps0ljbyKEDKeVWeie9iI5rTVAI3c8vTZpxwnsj6qsn2SJgv3bVUh0Y/s1600/DSC_0389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxi7gcHSRxRw2OOlpTrKAE-g8NgiTPyjUFgGxVqD49TkcGIEum-VZzKneDHxUbM158DUR4vDna2A3zhygMENo6ps0ljbyKEDKeVWeie9iI5rTVAI3c8vTZpxwnsj6qsn2SJgv3bVUh0Y/s1600/DSC_0389.JPG" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<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/AVvXsEiLEPjlyPprmVmgDQM2bDEi7N9-vjq-5dTCb3SddyfZiN1Iign34Rij8EBI9U9sIzWgup1AxCLpedVoAoxJZ59pLS1u2hwqcu3Tq7Oqx19hVrAKNGNotHcR1IhKx7nGQRrqY9nv_0WhAM8/s1600/DSC_0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLEPjlyPprmVmgDQM2bDEi7N9-vjq-5dTCb3SddyfZiN1Iign34Rij8EBI9U9sIzWgup1AxCLpedVoAoxJZ59pLS1u2hwqcu3Tq7Oqx19hVrAKNGNotHcR1IhKx7nGQRrqY9nv_0WhAM8/s1600/DSC_0420.JPG" height="400" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving the hospital!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK85ir40WW68Rwh7X6mDIQ0OkFoVzP_fw5uH0RwXH-dLFHB-DtW85-gu315StjgfMC8JLxH0s-wmzRy0pcdgJklGgATtlLwIbtwydxv1uL7GWS5NgGMneuvOAVdIzQ5zgp37efu8bBqMo/s1600/12-13-14+(20).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK85ir40WW68Rwh7X6mDIQ0OkFoVzP_fw5uH0RwXH-dLFHB-DtW85-gu315StjgfMC8JLxH0s-wmzRy0pcdgJklGgATtlLwIbtwydxv1uL7GWS5NgGMneuvOAVdIzQ5zgp37efu8bBqMo/s1600/12-13-14+(20).JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqJ70ZEN4FjbOE_XtDmsp-rkAHkfQXiKTo9ixSic3AivlUT7_QnESVOFNXeQwFDEpxdTBJ8IvsH3PHuzwsfGZefSH4kZxKfYGXHP9CAktWiCtiX5vmDigDieyo4Cc6AqJCvI8ovE8ay4/s1600/12-14-14+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqJ70ZEN4FjbOE_XtDmsp-rkAHkfQXiKTo9ixSic3AivlUT7_QnESVOFNXeQwFDEpxdTBJ8IvsH3PHuzwsfGZefSH4kZxKfYGXHP9CAktWiCtiX5vmDigDieyo4Cc6AqJCvI8ovE8ay4/s1600/12-14-14+(6).JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVba09E2ZX9iwCnWYfJ3ur8GJMDnHVHuIoHHGD_6f2xH91_mz-JtmuADkHYY4-1cyLi7mNcglyxNCBJbP6hki9D5RIFJpKHPnCU54jZJ0vzC0vptQyR192GQcTSg3gQJMoY8XDCaw0Nw/s1600/D11224420141217_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVba09E2ZX9iwCnWYfJ3ur8GJMDnHVHuIoHHGD_6f2xH91_mz-JtmuADkHYY4-1cyLi7mNcglyxNCBJbP6hki9D5RIFJpKHPnCU54jZJ0vzC0vptQyR192GQcTSg3gQJMoY8XDCaw0Nw/s1600/D11224420141217_0003.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-22216685075031694162014-11-26T20:22:00.001-06:002014-11-26T20:22:21.507-06:00Feathered Turkey Play<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This simple feathered turkey contact paper play is a perfect last minute Thanksgiving activity. If you need some time for final preparations and are looking for something fun to occupy your little one, give this a try! All you need is colored construction paper (or you could draw the turkey shape onto a piece of white paper), contact paper, tape, and feathers (which could also be made out of paper). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7djvMxsCWNqsEwyKNcpgpzRQNAQMv80eS0kyyMQLPnxhhGQecdH8S8LNInCuYQS33QqDi8NoTHw7DrHSFB_KxtJXENXI5BqEdZ6aZbS9XOkWWU9yH7P6JvcAiKd3XGnxTjl35ecXk5rs/s1600/TurkeyCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7djvMxsCWNqsEwyKNcpgpzRQNAQMv80eS0kyyMQLPnxhhGQecdH8S8LNInCuYQS33QqDi8NoTHw7DrHSFB_KxtJXENXI5BqEdZ6aZbS9XOkWWU9yH7P6JvcAiKd3XGnxTjl35ecXk5rs/s1600/TurkeyCollage.jpg" height="640" width="296" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To make this fun activity for Skyler, I cut the turkey pieces out of construction paper, quickly used a glue stick to put him together and taped him straight onto our glass door. Then I taped the non-stick side of a small piece of contact paper over him, peeled off the backing to reveal the sticky side, and we were ready to play in just a few minutes!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdZmuuDjs9L_nzsDMObBeIgrUTWFV-qlVA90kcX0GuwCh3pj1aTEy7nvrzrskzyIXYwYYYRqnZpH-lnGBsVcoBvcUAZpC7RjlCesFXf2caixG-gfZdNxurMRMohgtPlCj15vH0VBlL0I/s1600/ContactTurkey3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdZmuuDjs9L_nzsDMObBeIgrUTWFV-qlVA90kcX0GuwCh3pj1aTEy7nvrzrskzyIXYwYYYRqnZpH-lnGBsVcoBvcUAZpC7RjlCesFXf2caixG-gfZdNxurMRMohgtPlCj15vH0VBlL0I/s1600/ContactTurkey3.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgULeOg2dGKDg9fXUSK_MZPRSGE52F5T4M7XH1bGXZNjhAHLvnvaM7eo1ZjtpQSuk3t-qk9SRPuwOAWQUh19OMTQPcNDcwWkk3Jc-DurxXrtYH2M0ZgafDpkYNjW7zJrXHBl4hDKpbjlE/s1600/ContactTurkey4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgULeOg2dGKDg9fXUSK_MZPRSGE52F5T4M7XH1bGXZNjhAHLvnvaM7eo1ZjtpQSuk3t-qk9SRPuwOAWQUh19OMTQPcNDcwWkk3Jc-DurxXrtYH2M0ZgafDpkYNjW7zJrXHBl4hDKpbjlE/s1600/ContactTurkey4.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-32398589892479214032014-11-13T07:00:00.000-06:002014-11-15T14:48:54.201-06:00150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids (Plus a Giveaway!)<span id="goog_1629351638"></span><span id="goog_1629351639"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Between the snow that started earlier this week (and the extremely cold temps we will be having in Minnesota for the next several months) and the upcoming arrival of baby boy #2 any day now, I am more concerned about keeping Skyler well entertained and not plopping him down in front of a screen to pass the time. We love the occasional episode of Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood and some educational iPad apps, but I want to make sure that I am still providing Skyler with a variety of learning activities at a time where we will be cooped up at home and with a new baby that will require a lot of attention. The timing could not be more perfect for the book I am reviewing today!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I found out that Asia of <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.funathomewithkids.com/">Fun at Home with Kids</a> was working on her first book, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it!! I have been a huge fan of Asia and her incredible blog since she started and have been so happy to get to know her since starting Minne-Mama. Her simple hands-on activities are appealing to kids of all ages and every single thing she posts is SO fun! Skyler and I frequently do the activities and crafts that she posts, and I have many of her other posts on my must-try list (my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/minnemamablog/">Pinterest</a> is proof of that!) Well, the wait is over, the book is out and it is AMAZING! </span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Many of the activities I have been dying to try are included such as <b>Moonsand</b>, <b>Baked Cotton Balls</b>, <b>Crystallizing Watercolors</b>, <b>Soap Foam</b>, <b>Dirt and Worms</b>, and every single small world activity. You have got to check them all out - the coolest! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler and I have happily been going through and trying some activities from the book. I had everything for the following activities at home already which is one of my favorite things about this book. You can buy almost everything at the grocery store or superstore that you are probably stopping at at least once a week (if you don't have it stocked in your pantry already!)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRXMzsQC0QsTRyHe13vEc2mR2WZf3B8RXeWpG0-JjnAgcQX_GE9uPL6VrzHJU4rnLwCdoDkVZLa1fO9NYrxJrEnGRUtUDN7qp6HNt7_AP2YRj5ueUcDYkhgixx5HReZh3z4cOgM-me_s/s1600/FAHWK1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRXMzsQC0QsTRyHe13vEc2mR2WZf3B8RXeWpG0-JjnAgcQX_GE9uPL6VrzHJU4rnLwCdoDkVZLa1fO9NYrxJrEnGRUtUDN7qp6HNt7_AP2YRj5ueUcDYkhgixx5HReZh3z4cOgM-me_s/s1600/FAHWK1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We did two activities from the book on Monday when we had our first snowfall. We started with the recipe for <b>Magic Expanding Paint</b>
and it was a HUGE hit with Skyler. He started off by making small dots,
but after I mentioned the word "squeeze" he filled page after page with
awesome puddles of paint. His favorite way to create was by making a
circle with one color, filling the center with another color, and
switching off until his page was full. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqVoTeMU4ZQs2BMQAMrQwSQrhKZ0EfwucaCUpuzeJJzMuqron6DKIYdX4zFJUVdYw3hEdixGzTBbRr4mnjESelbn37IIUrzCbNSvRAiQ5ouHM0l9I4q0vfL48mgO8fZnyY3S2P_0OpfM/s1600/FAHWK2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqVoTeMU4ZQs2BMQAMrQwSQrhKZ0EfwucaCUpuzeJJzMuqron6DKIYdX4zFJUVdYw3hEdixGzTBbRr4mnjESelbn37IIUrzCbNSvRAiQ5ouHM0l9I4q0vfL48mgO8fZnyY3S2P_0OpfM/s1600/FAHWK2.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Seriously, this recipe was so quick to put together and we spent the next half hour talking, laughing, and creating some beautiful pieces of art! This activity is going to become very popular at our house - just look at the joy on Skyler's face! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK4kTgFcsdPhS0li0DiI4D5XriBlu3qLqdAB1QPkZuEgYu6RMqSm1v5vcbp43WjO1xQC-c3O0sA5Cu_lx1VYmuhh-H_eK89D5J0eJE7Jrhbd-_tS3VZODOo0EKh2TNPwDSj-Bz_eilcYk/s1600/FAHWK3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK4kTgFcsdPhS0li0DiI4D5XriBlu3qLqdAB1QPkZuEgYu6RMqSm1v5vcbp43WjO1xQC-c3O0sA5Cu_lx1VYmuhh-H_eK89D5J0eJE7Jrhbd-_tS3VZODOo0EKh2TNPwDSj-Bz_eilcYk/s1600/FAHWK3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAozIMJxCqSNuC5AjVUu4YgwHMK6ohrHbtQZeaCPEbmPTipVGIdyIZZ6n3swR6GAt8MwcYDflQO-qsiAWQdp19wIVJOVEAO37YarYNdN9HfjVosnhPBM6ItXth6J9p9PxOSJqN4et4cQ/s1600/FAHWK4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAozIMJxCqSNuC5AjVUu4YgwHMK6ohrHbtQZeaCPEbmPTipVGIdyIZZ6n3swR6GAt8MwcYDflQO-qsiAWQdp19wIVJOVEAO37YarYNdN9HfjVosnhPBM6ItXth6J9p9PxOSJqN4et4cQ/s1600/FAHWK4.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We also tried Oobleck for the first time! Going along with our snowy morning, we kept with the <b>Plain Oobleck</b> from the book, and then Skyler added snowflake sequins to play with. I wasn't sure how this would go since Skyler is not really into slimy sensory play. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQF8KTIJnBovi4-SC4iehzdgwNPkrGPPMQPgQjN_5D02VJ77Iots7ZLhekZSvVdxj4oMQQ_maGPpGGhMh41woRC2coE24tvWlWqMNkUgNcx8sgBdSCycN0u5m9yZ5E-ByUvLYQScLcOk/s1600/FAHWK5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQF8KTIJnBovi4-SC4iehzdgwNPkrGPPMQPgQjN_5D02VJ77Iots7ZLhekZSvVdxj4oMQQ_maGPpGGhMh41woRC2coE24tvWlWqMNkUgNcx8sgBdSCycN0u5m9yZ5E-ByUvLYQScLcOk/s1600/FAHWK5.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At first he touched it and said "I don't like this!" I sat and played with it, talking about how cool it was (seriously this stuff is incredible to touch - I have never felt anything like it!)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyICPVElk404nsu9ef6duhK8VLPISTNXfFi3EEgAIH54x8hkBDX0Hbzmda_Co0cN4Lhdg0XidIzIUOiTkBiriNdbn6ufNFxpfAX0jq5ImgB2KzUkuDIzaVX03uG4scc5WNVhROP7GB4SA/s1600/FAHWK6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyICPVElk404nsu9ef6duhK8VLPISTNXfFi3EEgAIH54x8hkBDX0Hbzmda_Co0cN4Lhdg0XidIzIUOiTkBiriNdbn6ufNFxpfAX0jq5ImgB2KzUkuDIzaVX03uG4scc5WNVhROP7GB4SA/s1600/FAHWK6.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With some manipulation, the sequins started dropping down into the Oobleck, so I told Skyler we had to play peek-a-boo for them. That caught his attention, and my little man who is not a fan of gooey stuff was on a mission to find snowflakes! He still didn't love it, but it was a start. There were smiles :) I will definitely continue to use this activity with Skyler. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsOWPbb2diHjCLkOtY2QpQrGFMnp5hA7cr0q2e1i8aislmLReCGkpLSICgegDuiox8kKtZ-l9G41Rib0XOtEhjY1ucRozDS9tW7kiz345y2_SWobRgWVp2iYNdnnCxBen9jkzzVPw4L4/s1600/FAHWK7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsOWPbb2diHjCLkOtY2QpQrGFMnp5hA7cr0q2e1i8aislmLReCGkpLSICgegDuiox8kKtZ-l9G41Rib0XOtEhjY1ucRozDS9tW7kiz345y2_SWobRgWVp2iYNdnnCxBen9jkzzVPw4L4/s1600/FAHWK7.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLHPjmDuVjQztzTjsHub7ZRJ61BoJsGhxFgGkVwcOlLeMrA8q1eVaKwZc9R0jxjMcSNgXA6k3AiIfquvkZEJhATm7LtmgbxrSJ37Fqnb2CWna9zKLrtKa1PLfv9H-_9t8sc1MfrzfPaw/s1600/FAHWK9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLHPjmDuVjQztzTjsHub7ZRJ61BoJsGhxFgGkVwcOlLeMrA8q1eVaKwZc9R0jxjMcSNgXA6k3AiIfquvkZEJhATm7LtmgbxrSJ37Fqnb2CWna9zKLrtKa1PLfv9H-_9t8sc1MfrzfPaw/s1600/FAHWK9.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_09yNRXrIYdA9vW1bMzR5krutBOxvbs-eQALXtbbp1-8VpUYPQY1joeuN8hcLCQ5Y5W6sz2LEj8Znpn0FcbCDea3v6ceyBS3lq_oTY4QhcItcn4dXoKR8S0tpPWUeUJUjS3_2u9OChY/s1600/FAHWK8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_09yNRXrIYdA9vW1bMzR5krutBOxvbs-eQALXtbbp1-8VpUYPQY1joeuN8hcLCQ5Y5W6sz2LEj8Znpn0FcbCDea3v6ceyBS3lq_oTY4QhcItcn4dXoKR8S0tpPWUeUJUjS3_2u9OChY/s1600/FAHWK8.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We also made the <b>PomPom Shooter</b> from the book which was a ton of fun! The next two up for us are the <b>Flax Goo</b> from the slimes section and the <b>Banana Playdough</b>. Both things we have all the ingredients for at home and I think Skyler will love them both!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am planning on buying a stockpile of <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1440576157/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1440576157&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=YDCAQ6DN3EZRIX7L">150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httpminnemama-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1440576157" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></i>to
give as Christmas, birthday, and 'just because' gifts for everyone I know
that has a child baby to school-aged. For an extra special gift to give, check out Asia's post for <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.funathomewithkids.com/2014/10/diy-sensory-kits-creative-gifts-for-kids.html">including the book with this DIY sensory kit</a>!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJYsRLrPkl7lRHe5k5hzkW6kp9pzwFuNEoBeCFcAg_KY_laAf4rKuvxCZ_BVWHRXwUcAYOaiTWqoV-Sa1QBwBgHWGnQuDllIBSkRnM4ALVB9HiZSrZDTfTacEWX6n2m67jXljLLVBmH0/s1600/1-IMG_6284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJYsRLrPkl7lRHe5k5hzkW6kp9pzwFuNEoBeCFcAg_KY_laAf4rKuvxCZ_BVWHRXwUcAYOaiTWqoV-Sa1QBwBgHWGnQuDllIBSkRnM4ALVB9HiZSrZDTfTacEWX6n2m67jXljLLVBmH0/s1600/1-IMG_6284.jpg" height="400" width="331" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
I could keep gushing about the book - how great it describes ways to manage messy play (something I thought I would avoid as a mom because I hate to make a mess!), how clearly labeled each activity is with any potential allergens, or the huge amount of variations included - but really, you have to check it out for yourself!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1440576157/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1440576157&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=YDCAQ6DN3EZRIX7L">150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httpminnemama-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1440576157" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></i>is available worldwide and can be purchased through the following links. If you don't see a link for your country, email Asia at and she will be able to help you track one down! (funathomewithkids@gmail.com)</div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1440576157/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1440576157&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=FHU6QSEXLAWWS4TK">Amazon US</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httpminnemama-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1440576157" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b></span>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/150-Screen-Free-Activities-Kids-FunAtHomeWithKids-com/dp/1440576157">Amazon UK</a></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1440576157">Amazon CA</a></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/150-screen-free-activities-for-kids-asia-citro/1120727579?ean=9781440576157&isbn=9781440576157">Barnes and Noble</a></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781440576157">From your local US bookstore</a></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/150-Screen-Free-Activities-for-Kids-Asia-Citro/9781440576157">Book Depository</a></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.fishpond.com.au/Books/150-Screen-Free-Activities-for-Kids-Asia-Citro/9781440576157">Fishpond AU</a></b></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Asia has a super fun giveaway going on and you can enter here to win a handmade activity from the book (made by the author herself)! I would be thrilled to win any of her amazing creations!! Enter to win below: </div>
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/6e2cfd4f10/" id="rc-6e2cfd4f10" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was asked by Asia to be a part of her online book tour and was given a copy of the book 150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDRM8Vqi_uJzuGf8xuxHcr9vgMzDopJXu1HwxoGR2Of4nRx9dCU0v8LQvr_JxSIhbRTLm977vGI33VQH6hN3Ebfr3bB2Wa2MlYoVfYXI-_BvKgIkJcurF9iKpPFLmRHO5BNfuwF0OHp5w/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDRM8Vqi_uJzuGf8xuxHcr9vgMzDopJXu1HwxoGR2Of4nRx9dCU0v8LQvr_JxSIhbRTLm977vGI33VQH6hN3Ebfr3bB2Wa2MlYoVfYXI-_BvKgIkJcurF9iKpPFLmRHO5BNfuwF0OHp5w/s320/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
<script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-52954754303535667882014-11-09T22:14:00.000-06:002014-11-09T22:14:49.998-06:00Toddler Decorated Care Package<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Care package two was successfully shipped and received! We found out that Joe got approved for leave and will be home for Thanksgiving before returning to his stateside training. I chose to do a Thanksgiving theme and had a lot of fun making this package. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I wanted to include Skyler in the decorating of the package as much as possible. We had a lot of fun making sticker turkeys, hand print turkeys, and a big feathered turkey to decorate the inside, flaps, and top of Joe's care package. Skyler loved feeling involved not only in making the care package, but helping me pick out the things that went inside of it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgUZjrMMuFZzAn97giNUVR0mre3JlQb0ZiEfnOHYdIepiR3gFEMet56FmPZlxa9svTBkEaJAtzdb7V8Z2Zc2csvSiT_ERGqK9bFaWh8KtCO9qIBrxXcBbmyMtYo_e4csoQDW7UwZ9_E8/s1600/Nov1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgUZjrMMuFZzAn97giNUVR0mre3JlQb0ZiEfnOHYdIepiR3gFEMet56FmPZlxa9svTBkEaJAtzdb7V8Z2Zc2csvSiT_ERGqK9bFaWh8KtCO9qIBrxXcBbmyMtYo_e4csoQDW7UwZ9_E8/s1600/Nov1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyjhuEwZ9Bc3F-xMM4Hjj3RDnxuZ_8m63fDZqHFvFSTahZ02L5Uz5gCx52bFWh8jz4j6H8LbGvI1J9t2kA8IJ-ySSqlI-gXHG7NSQrBfJEMS_yrNA29hg6qibYnfYJ3kHlkhm7Q7KU1HM/s1600/Nov2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyjhuEwZ9Bc3F-xMM4Hjj3RDnxuZ_8m63fDZqHFvFSTahZ02L5Uz5gCx52bFWh8jz4j6H8LbGvI1J9t2kA8IJ-ySSqlI-gXHG7NSQrBfJEMS_yrNA29hg6qibYnfYJ3kHlkhm7Q7KU1HM/s1600/Nov2.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Similar to our last package, I mostly just sent snacks for Joe (with plenty to share!) since he didn't really need anything yet. I also included a letter, and on the morning I was going to send it, Joe asked me to send the arm band for his phone, so luckily I was able to send it to him that day! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My main goal with this care package was trying out mason jar pies. Joe's dad has a recipe he loves at Thanksgiving for sweet potato pecan pie. Following their recipe for the pie filling and modifying the cooking temp and time using a canned pie recipe I looked up, I ended up with three little pies that can be shipped safely because of the canning process! The recipe usually has the nuts on top, but I found a candied pecan recipe and sent them separately instead. Joe said they were amazing and I can't wait to try this method out for all sorts of baked goods!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtg__B-jgvgAl5YzIrfGIBrf_weMFiNfPEOD0at2BbFz3kA95A-WcKYLtvJpEcPsnzvGlIrtB9hQvK1wM_TR90g0Wog1iE3LOuWunb-dEAsXp38ePggLavq4x42n83OQUTJR-gak_OxRU/s1600/Nov3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtg__B-jgvgAl5YzIrfGIBrf_weMFiNfPEOD0at2BbFz3kA95A-WcKYLtvJpEcPsnzvGlIrtB9hQvK1wM_TR90g0Wog1iE3LOuWunb-dEAsXp38ePggLavq4x42n83OQUTJR-gak_OxRU/s1600/Nov3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I included tons of snacks and treats like jelly cranberries (Joe loves them - sticking with the Thanksgiving theme), almonds and trail mix, granola bars, chips and salsa, candy corn and M&M's, beef jerky, and flavored pretzels. We'll see if they can actually finish it all before Thanksgiving - I went a little overboard! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEgRfRsmBBqIKiyYKRqENQVgRQvSgv85OpUDayAIuUTG5bAzeslWz6i-Tf4JkbhSCmhyphenhyphenKtESgrxTK_j2B6grv_jl9aGvZxKwJrq4jk73vgOvm4I-NnCQHGgPs_lqbItmTzUZgBlePoTg/s1600/Nov4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEgRfRsmBBqIKiyYKRqENQVgRQvSgv85OpUDayAIuUTG5bAzeslWz6i-Tf4JkbhSCmhyphenhyphenKtESgrxTK_j2B6grv_jl9aGvZxKwJrq4jk73vgOvm4I-NnCQHGgPs_lqbItmTzUZgBlePoTg/s1600/Nov4.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler's favorite part was decorating this feathered turkey for Joe. Skyler put on the eyes, beak, and feet of the turkey on his own, colored the turkey a little bit and then we turned it over and added the feathers. I handed Skyler pieces of tape and we worked together to fill the back of the turkey. He talked about sending daddy that turkey for days and was excited to find out that Joe has it hanging by his bed. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4fXSRnK63_PUp4M9S47_O8LkpGQ9C2yFqREENEEEvufAwm2ATcSi0gOpsIaNwYolPgfZ8kCSzzu_SBLKIlb98Cky32J0qI9y-zf8HBRscR734UoBrIoNPVibBYTt5Tp0C1jpjlDaeuQ/s1600/Nov5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4fXSRnK63_PUp4M9S47_O8LkpGQ9C2yFqREENEEEvufAwm2ATcSi0gOpsIaNwYolPgfZ8kCSzzu_SBLKIlb98Cky32J0qI9y-zf8HBRscR734UoBrIoNPVibBYTt5Tp0C1jpjlDaeuQ/s1600/Nov5.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The final product - so much fun to put together and send! Now time to prepare his next package :) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQvoSxV1a_MDy763F52t26VX_edZx6BNqsaL6fs-zq4vzMdO8uGQztsVzYsmjI8mGvh-oMmKrvsGRTlJk5HbdQV-qCjgck8dQlhWaRkUt8lEnR_wmdevrWVWZ2TzbjXZ_p3B3-AnkOoKE/s1600/Nov6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQvoSxV1a_MDy763F52t26VX_edZx6BNqsaL6fs-zq4vzMdO8uGQztsVzYsmjI8mGvh-oMmKrvsGRTlJk5HbdQV-qCjgck8dQlhWaRkUt8lEnR_wmdevrWVWZ2TzbjXZ_p3B3-AnkOoKE/s1600/Nov6.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-62514087631300865982014-10-30T08:00:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:49:35.304-06:00Garbage Truck Play<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This garbage truck play was a spur of the moment activity that ended up filling our entire morning! We were spending some time playing in the living room and after watching Skyler quietly make several laps around the room with his toy recycling truck, I asked him if he wanted to make a road for his truck. He looked at me like it was the best idea ever, so we quickly got out the black tape and started making a curvy road for
his truck. Every time I ripped off a new piece of tape Skyler would
giggle and say "Oh! Good one, Mama!" He had a great time helping me
place the tape around the carpet to complete the road. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6b7jdlezYdngAx1Os5hqhShvDT6QfoxnuW3eDPwXHrJYHEd1beJUYuO1zAzkkr4mAh2bIdWOwviJFbt5BefpLUgPlOs3DeDRcFiIQmvVHGcsZ6Gu9EzWD4GDA7zghr9YyQEMWaRhxB2k/s1600/Garbage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6b7jdlezYdngAx1Os5hqhShvDT6QfoxnuW3eDPwXHrJYHEd1beJUYuO1zAzkkr4mAh2bIdWOwviJFbt5BefpLUgPlOs3DeDRcFiIQmvVHGcsZ6Gu9EzWD4GDA7zghr9YyQEMWaRhxB2k/s1600/Garbage1.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKIA4vb-KFtioT767UHobaWmC2sSE97R9sDUHu7QVEYhUrOeUrZBN4VudYnXoyTSVw8tOIfYCHoYtATzWVxVtm5NlKfq2LlvZSivH651SnplDk1Lzzdw-VK2DfXbxwuBLVKrOff2HJRk/s1600/Garbage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKIA4vb-KFtioT767UHobaWmC2sSE97R9sDUHu7QVEYhUrOeUrZBN4VudYnXoyTSVw8tOIfYCHoYtATzWVxVtm5NlKfq2LlvZSivH651SnplDk1Lzzdw-VK2DfXbxwuBLVKrOff2HJRk/s1600/Garbage2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I grabbed a few small toys to act as the 'garbage' for his truck. We had been listening to his Kindermusik CD earlier in the morning and had to pull out all of his shaker eggs after the song "shake your eggs" came on. In addition to his eggs, I got some balls from his ball ramp and fabric block set, and we had plenty of garbage to set up around on the side of the road!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyF0rcyH6VGsS1hbtcnomgoUd5RdtjN8Eng-sNLX5WbzAH3JT8965RLbPLr5SRoQ_0QLYhsI0QU8iPEjZSRMqRx-uwLCaQymX85Lrbjlw9O40GeUs6G4KtRn-sv7QC87jW6-pCOLKxXs/s1600/Garbage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyF0rcyH6VGsS1hbtcnomgoUd5RdtjN8Eng-sNLX5WbzAH3JT8965RLbPLr5SRoQ_0QLYhsI0QU8iPEjZSRMqRx-uwLCaQymX85Lrbjlw9O40GeUs6G4KtRn-sv7QC87jW6-pCOLKxXs/s1600/Garbage3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This activity was such a hit with Skyler! He drove his two trucks around and around (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001Q3KUA0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001Q3KUA0&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=NYDBZPUZEDBGXJ7N">this recycling truck</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httpminnemama-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B001Q3KUA0" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
from Green Toys is one of Skyler's absolute favorite toys!), stopping to fill the trucks with toys and then setting the garbage back up just to do it again. Every time Skyler looked at me he flashed me this huge smile. His very cheesiest - I love it!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtp_UOV6ufaWbKdBGo9tNPPY4FPfFr4yzfaDI5I7eySXozRa6lHUzFJWKAciPSxC5AjS2FyvP8CM0RG2QQ0Jw_6JeGZphGd-zWOW-pSLPRAwZMZVeVboD1_4M99eBtlj2lwzAGWIzMjM/s1600/Garbage5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtp_UOV6ufaWbKdBGo9tNPPY4FPfFr4yzfaDI5I7eySXozRa6lHUzFJWKAciPSxC5AjS2FyvP8CM0RG2QQ0Jw_6JeGZphGd-zWOW-pSLPRAwZMZVeVboD1_4M99eBtlj2lwzAGWIzMjM/s1600/Garbage5.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmVdwgoiEfJTCcuBOKzZqGuIIIwKu9B1A6I4AQPVeMK99MvyUWOKamjIqxyF2-TcvgRoLhamqZyeee12LwK0UphbXZWnnWgWEzB0jkzIPJpGFcW8wS22W4gQsTKe4OYOOsiPix40jAsE/s1600/Garbage6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmVdwgoiEfJTCcuBOKzZqGuIIIwKu9B1A6I4AQPVeMK99MvyUWOKamjIqxyF2-TcvgRoLhamqZyeee12LwK0UphbXZWnnWgWEzB0jkzIPJpGFcW8wS22W4gQsTKe4OYOOsiPix40jAsE/s1600/Garbage6.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWn44NhQOOQ6MZ50iguDAF41xuMOt1TNr6ywFsaOz0mZ6ixxvlg_L5bWHw7oBlaq2qSutL4WZG4W2RYOA-ZwhppXUEPjinea7fqJ_w5j0mE3u_zkbTFEF7z5QSKPqITHTLhUsnZZYnmmU/s1600/Garbage7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWn44NhQOOQ6MZ50iguDAF41xuMOt1TNr6ywFsaOz0mZ6ixxvlg_L5bWHw7oBlaq2qSutL4WZG4W2RYOA-ZwhppXUEPjinea7fqJ_w5j0mE3u_zkbTFEF7z5QSKPqITHTLhUsnZZYnmmU/s1600/Garbage7.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitv2lallbkUO-TncAEduDrGcjiFCc51d2q1sLtfLPV-c-hLb1WfwLxaxPb8XzOF7iX7ygmPo5n7lZJzH2RKTJMZCl0qpHCyNidjQYL9IpL8F4QfpVllAkt2RkBpahLF77Bq5znNRBy6HM/s1600/Garbage8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitv2lallbkUO-TncAEduDrGcjiFCc51d2q1sLtfLPV-c-hLb1WfwLxaxPb8XzOF7iX7ygmPo5n7lZJzH2RKTJMZCl0qpHCyNidjQYL9IpL8F4QfpVllAkt2RkBpahLF77Bq5znNRBy6HM/s1600/Garbage8.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEN4UPbDcRHocP5Ldpd-huj0xV_qYkLBWxLLjhW3tBDyf6lADiacaIOhpvS2mn4rPIjytZodIKY-KJXMzNOjMdB21yhgOAltGqbAhPsKIOfWUOd9gTQYS9GQwFumZz-_VNaPWRp9T9Vo/s1600/Garbage9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEN4UPbDcRHocP5Ldpd-huj0xV_qYkLBWxLLjhW3tBDyf6lADiacaIOhpvS2mn4rPIjytZodIKY-KJXMzNOjMdB21yhgOAltGqbAhPsKIOfWUOd9gTQYS9GQwFumZz-_VNaPWRp9T9Vo/s1600/Garbage9.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over a week later, his black tape road is still going strong on the carpet! He just loves it!! This was our first time making a tape road, and I know it will not be the last. It is such a simple way to extend play time with his vehicles, which are Skyler's absolute favorite toys. The size of the road doesn't matter at all either. He likes it just as much with his small construction vehicles and wooden trains, or with his big riding train too.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg22oxc4-9FO7xrECMvxUenBy3SBdIZWiNgoQbqnn-kmSD8-bfQARbS5t6YHABpeqzD5sHoBsXLzqxmp_Td2yjOavIiQU4WVLAIVrTOQ7xxBKrNzWNxRaxmXo_7fnetsk6L9SE0I84xvAM/s1600/Garbage10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg22oxc4-9FO7xrECMvxUenBy3SBdIZWiNgoQbqnn-kmSD8-bfQARbS5t6YHABpeqzD5sHoBsXLzqxmp_Td2yjOavIiQU4WVLAIVrTOQ7xxBKrNzWNxRaxmXo_7fnetsk6L9SE0I84xvAM/s1600/Garbage10.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQay_bkxuT929cyVNKXZbSh1otcllT_2VDzO-LbmEZo9908vMqaeWKQI3nk9BoZS3-dALjESmGlCPUMbQJUOmZ712k7eSsXu03mNZQpmBrPR8BDniZaA5zUJCjWIVYQ1eeld6_XM74ac/s1600/Garbage11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQay_bkxuT929cyVNKXZbSh1otcllT_2VDzO-LbmEZo9908vMqaeWKQI3nk9BoZS3-dALjESmGlCPUMbQJUOmZ712k7eSsXu03mNZQpmBrPR8BDniZaA5zUJCjWIVYQ1eeld6_XM74ac/s1600/Garbage11.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4G49Jf242Un78Ctf5OkQCZ_orJMVQHF4_KYIcNIFuhfmDv3NPeMknK9qYLtiNHZyjHuDUb_Oo1IZ3cW2sE2IROdFWpkTsOHqKSThilQzuh2LOBWmEWOFmFL5lV7eNt61YqgAurFJNvMI/s1600/Garbage12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4G49Jf242Un78Ctf5OkQCZ_orJMVQHF4_KYIcNIFuhfmDv3NPeMknK9qYLtiNHZyjHuDUb_Oo1IZ3cW2sE2IROdFWpkTsOHqKSThilQzuh2LOBWmEWOFmFL5lV7eNt61YqgAurFJNvMI/s1600/Garbage12.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Such a fun morning with this sweet boy! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZy0dALWjC-xj7Ruc9-N-DzVmGA5XMcDrPdXp62On6tBhDcV5pP3jNXi50Ln5ekh23bO3Q-yEh8r5JBeP2IMzzHB5Pal5OJsWC2NGMpIuC53QwAI4PpspXWi996bBd4kinCikVFO8tNFo/s1600/Garbage14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZy0dALWjC-xj7Ruc9-N-DzVmGA5XMcDrPdXp62On6tBhDcV5pP3jNXi50Ln5ekh23bO3Q-yEh8r5JBeP2IMzzHB5Pal5OJsWC2NGMpIuC53QwAI4PpspXWi996bBd4kinCikVFO8tNFo/s1600/Garbage14.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwiwmq7KrARYY2HpI7rQs-T4R13yajojhFMYCDzIWaS46qpFMNUUmj5dqc9RW2vwagFni3B9SQKn2s_GBawkussTjynUqO5R_TrJ1xnVUV8dqBiodJq8k1ljKXcinpFYuOuUKQVQ4-Nw/s1600/Garbage15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwiwmq7KrARYY2HpI7rQs-T4R13yajojhFMYCDzIWaS46qpFMNUUmj5dqc9RW2vwagFni3B9SQKn2s_GBawkussTjynUqO5R_TrJ1xnVUV8dqBiodJq8k1ljKXcinpFYuOuUKQVQ4-Nw/s1600/Garbage15.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<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/AVvXsEjw9OW3KPLU62fk2K3hsyPvegmHzZ-Bpmcll4F5lR3OiJbdi3hrT8nWMlnBoSjH17oRendKsA6_BiE1dIrj3gl_VzAkwDx6DADEQfPqR5w-ImelBCBs76cwYHRdBIgD1SASzrPUx_v6CHE/s1600/Garbage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9OW3KPLU62fk2K3hsyPvegmHzZ-Bpmcll4F5lR3OiJbdi3hrT8nWMlnBoSjH17oRendKsA6_BiE1dIrj3gl_VzAkwDx6DADEQfPqR5w-ImelBCBs76cwYHRdBIgD1SASzrPUx_v6CHE/s1600/Garbage4.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break from his busy job!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Watching Skyler carefully open his garbage truck and fill it with the toys was a lot of fun to watch. It is always exciting to set up an activity that makes him so happy. Especially when it was completely unplanned! Makes you feel like Supermom :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOR6iZa8FEnx7__ZeuftBwiqWvLxPxBy61RsG7oJGOUucos-cZNAtZQHSiXWigDmhMJdYO4EQd05C_zJGXvK0AmWLfc1tLqHa9CrufRyoDVX4jbLWMkdPWBtKhp0B2XaQKJQzeSGZepQ/s1600/Garbage18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOR6iZa8FEnx7__ZeuftBwiqWvLxPxBy61RsG7oJGOUucos-cZNAtZQHSiXWigDmhMJdYO4EQd05C_zJGXvK0AmWLfc1tLqHa9CrufRyoDVX4jbLWMkdPWBtKhp0B2XaQKJQzeSGZepQ/s1600/Garbage18.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXXNhdTKSC2kitF8vhz8zRZ1087HB0fZ4Hzx97_B4lCDUarVrFDny1Um51B7pmPD-3Z9-3zjlr8zsHbsZe8Z6w6GfXoXgVWxMOHu4CAUD6L1JbuRxOezsau4rIKNYeWzu6-24nqj_eiE/s1600/Garbage19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXXNhdTKSC2kitF8vhz8zRZ1087HB0fZ4Hzx97_B4lCDUarVrFDny1Um51B7pmPD-3Z9-3zjlr8zsHbsZe8Z6w6GfXoXgVWxMOHu4CAUD6L1JbuRxOezsau4rIKNYeWzu6-24nqj_eiE/s1600/Garbage19.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It couldn't have been a more perfect day to do this activity either. It was garbage AND recycling day, so we took breaks from playing with our garbage truck track to watch the real trucks do their job. Once the truck was done doing both sides of our street (Skyler's
favorite part is when it has to back up to get out to the main road -
the beeping is just so fun for a two-year-old!) he would quickly turn
around and start playing with his track again! Skyler told me for days after playing this that he was going to drive a garbage truck like a garbage truck man! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiUgaxN7-WorWsXmJB_jf002B_dfamVR76dXmu9YGiw9RsiJhXY9kZbLQ4C7ZgnFyKVSPK9ncQxZ1u7LuaNCxUCXEbD3vQzwiXR7QKIbhhrThlQkJ_oBBU-w8VYJBSm960_fdv0d6_Mw/s1600/Garbage20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiUgaxN7-WorWsXmJB_jf002B_dfamVR76dXmu9YGiw9RsiJhXY9kZbLQ4C7ZgnFyKVSPK9ncQxZ1u7LuaNCxUCXEbD3vQzwiXR7QKIbhhrThlQkJ_oBBU-w8VYJBSm960_fdv0d6_Mw/s1600/Garbage20.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-19489386534007557062014-10-26T20:48:00.003-05:002014-11-09T22:15:02.774-06:00Care Packages and Coping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Going into this month, I didn't know if I would write about this, but I started Minne-Mama not just for the crafts and activities I do with Skyler, but as a place to show what we do as a family. The military has been, and especially right now is, a huge part of who we are and how we live. We had to say goodbye to my amazing husband this month in preparation for his deployment. It was a hard week away from home as we went to going away ceremonies, and in the week he has been gone, we have just been trying to get into our new routine for the next several months. He is gone a lot, so Skyler and I are used to being at home just the two of us, but I am trying hard to make life feel normal for us before the baby arrives and our lives change drastically again. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtRY2A10SWQf6mxraJXM6H8ZiCi1FnzlnzRfbQgjnfUMIcyqgkih6-6wyVDs6YHfPABIICiNiaIbN5mmweCG9goiAxmW-YVVEeSG2sQ4FFZ99xzlpfteKULdfids4bKhM-XGMrguebOs/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtRY2A10SWQf6mxraJXM6H8ZiCi1FnzlnzRfbQgjnfUMIcyqgkih6-6wyVDs6YHfPABIICiNiaIbN5mmweCG9goiAxmW-YVVEeSG2sQ4FFZ99xzlpfteKULdfids4bKhM-XGMrguebOs/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" height="400" width="253" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My husband is my best friend, and has been for over ten years since we met in high school. I like to think of myself as pretty independent, but being without my person still sucks. We were apart for four months when he went to basic training, but that was before we were married, before we had Skyler. Not only will this be a longer time away, but now Skyler and baby E are a part of the mix. I have been using most of my extra energy to prepare myself and our children for Joe to be away.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
...and then I started looking up care packages, how to best send them, packaging baked goods...and I stumbled across care packages on Pinterest and realized how fun they can be! People decorate the inside of the boxes and do all sorts of amazing things with them. It has become my biggest distraction and is the one thing I feel like I can control with the deployment. I can send Joe a piece of home and show him how much we miss him in the care packages I send him. I am hooked!! Even though he just left, I made sure he had a package to open when he first got to his stateside training. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkthUpLFhb-ydFrIPQnn83P4TGGCGaBmnja4lpXfeQ7Nwj9h494ZqbbKkDZDoFmeqLkcSoqxwqCm1YLOZbjXXRCnQPUiFqS29Jc-MYbm6pok9jPteHIQy_zOxoOQHlbHv6Sq5y5o1hgI/s1600/HalloweenPackage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkthUpLFhb-ydFrIPQnn83P4TGGCGaBmnja4lpXfeQ7Nwj9h494ZqbbKkDZDoFmeqLkcSoqxwqCm1YLOZbjXXRCnQPUiFqS29Jc-MYbm6pok9jPteHIQy_zOxoOQHlbHv6Sq5y5o1hgI/s1600/HalloweenPackage1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Since I knew he wouldn't need a lot for his stateside training, the majority of the box space was stuffing the Halloween-themed box with his favorite candy. I also bought him a calendar to use as a countdown and journal, and I had a lot of fun going through and leaving him messages on important days or just at random. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAunWIcPbjCczg2VkJfvjPJrVtROV-dAb5wpuKzf8QjgNjmZ31hJTh1pq2oITwVQQ8WKrJu9ebO9wcxt0RI8yfX6x0QuqR_u9YEERd0nb13WLCBzSS67fP8ypyoXGBKmCEiu3ka8fpZ0/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAunWIcPbjCczg2VkJfvjPJrVtROV-dAb5wpuKzf8QjgNjmZ31hJTh1pq2oITwVQQ8WKrJu9ebO9wcxt0RI8yfX6x0QuqR_u9YEERd0nb13WLCBzSS67fP8ypyoXGBKmCEiu3ka8fpZ0/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+(2).jpg" height="400" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For my first care package, I went simple with the inside of the box - just using black, orange, and striped paper to write out "Boo! We miss you!" and "Happy Halloween" for him to find on the bottom when all of the contents of the box are emptied (I sent a lot of candy, knowing that Joe will not be the only one eating it!) On top of the candy went the calendar and <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/10/little-pumpkin-craft.html">Little Pumpkin Craft</a> Skyler made for him, and I covered the top with spider web and plastic spiders (and used the leftover to make our <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/10/spider-web-sensory-play.html">spider web sensory bin</a>). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have already started working on the next care package, and will probably create a side tab for them in the future, not keeping them in the main part of the blog.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjSg67WBxFv4jvum9XqxWpQYlwpfu6FJ7bv_MHm03oYvryhBidfINQjw1gtnpYGHRERK6hTGaeQFxmry91dN0OlArKOnf4d_QU2TcohluTE3PGz4kx0dnG7Tzvbjwaby_gVd6Wwnb-pw/s1600/care+package+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjSg67WBxFv4jvum9XqxWpQYlwpfu6FJ7bv_MHm03oYvryhBidfINQjw1gtnpYGHRERK6hTGaeQFxmry91dN0OlArKOnf4d_QU2TcohluTE3PGz4kx0dnG7Tzvbjwaby_gVd6Wwnb-pw/s1600/care+package+collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Other ways I have been preparing for the deployment have been mostly for Skyler. The night we got home after watching Joe head to the airport by bus, I set up Skyler's deployment wall that I have been piecing together for months. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JSHpKy8S57Ic11PnN00O_pGmjl26u-MPr5d634N1RBgWVx_QU6mQSjUfcKsCzixZIUgP4yq8pwDqcfplV7RnEs63O84KXcB8UU1OOyCQkx0RLbepHs4WmQncf0Xkxl0qQih14PG1gEU/s1600/Wall1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JSHpKy8S57Ic11PnN00O_pGmjl26u-MPr5d634N1RBgWVx_QU6mQSjUfcKsCzixZIUgP4yq8pwDqcfplV7RnEs63O84KXcB8UU1OOyCQkx0RLbepHs4WmQncf0Xkxl0qQih14PG1gEU/s1600/Wall1.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
His little red table has become our deployment zone and other than the lettering of "We Love Daddy" that I made, it includes two clocks for our time and daddy's time (more for me when the time different is greater, but Skyler is always saying "I like my clocks!") and "Army Bear" which was a gift that Joe brought back after a recent training. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The bin includes a variety of books on deployment and separation that I researched for months. We have read a few and I may do a later post of our favorites. The specifically deployment book we read the most is "Over There" which was given out at a family briefing I went to and it is great for a toddler! Skyler loves the version of "Guess How Much I Love You" which is a recordable book from Hallmark that Joe did before he left (I also took some videos of Joe reading some of Skyler's favorite books for him to watch when he wants to hear a book from daddy). </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6YgNPsb8cWGKyZ3NU88ioBWJs4w7qJ4_rhZDFvVu0BT_BHpcZ2ks2ggnm-_ugIMVPinhtYyBI2IZD3axHMpUE09keuXoRS143HjVM_6atS9wiRibPHxqWtZJpMUuvb6jshD668dS2rs/s1600/Wall2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6YgNPsb8cWGKyZ3NU88ioBWJs4w7qJ4_rhZDFvVu0BT_BHpcZ2ks2ggnm-_ugIMVPinhtYyBI2IZD3axHMpUE09keuXoRS143HjVM_6atS9wiRibPHxqWtZJpMUuvb6jshD668dS2rs/s1600/Wall2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The
little book in the front that says "Skyler and Daddy" is filled with
pictures of the two of them and is Skyler's favorite part of the
deployment table! He is always carrying his picture book around and
talking about what him and daddy are doing together in the pictures. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvyNxek_Djy8IMKXjtnXeUHlAbf7rQ5eDbczPBaioWdJQMHdokYutpvJngbqo4slH2v3hxBPur2E_uF3itgsq5S0TVm7GlYaZYMHeNbCPFPVDN8JL2CR1p71yKNn79jVbjyrluFW78hQ/s1600/DaddyAndSkyler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvyNxek_Djy8IMKXjtnXeUHlAbf7rQ5eDbczPBaioWdJQMHdokYutpvJngbqo4slH2v3hxBPur2E_uF3itgsq5S0TVm7GlYaZYMHeNbCPFPVDN8JL2CR1p71yKNn79jVbjyrluFW78hQ/s1600/DaddyAndSkyler.jpg" height="400" width="310" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The shelf above Skyler's table has calendars (that I made and decorated the backgrounds of) for all of the months Joe will be gone. I planned on putting them all up on the wall to the left of his table, but am not ready to see the empty calendars yet. When we fill a few, I will probably put them up. Skyler puts a sticker on every night. This picture was taken a week ago, we are caught up :) </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvAFS86M3bQOLEqQgY5BeQZVvGJngNqN6gWvYNWVLGqLZTie7bZ3UhYLec_VKtpDFk030KyZ9-tB970dsDVPD6u9iWSo5_EAuRx6OC1UCPni7BicqsbnYKxRsEef5K_9Sq3wtE39GZQo/s1600/Wall3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvAFS86M3bQOLEqQgY5BeQZVvGJngNqN6gWvYNWVLGqLZTie7bZ3UhYLec_VKtpDFk030KyZ9-tB970dsDVPD6u9iWSo5_EAuRx6OC1UCPni7BicqsbnYKxRsEef5K_9Sq3wtE39GZQo/s1600/Wall3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are also sticking with our countdown tradition, with a monthly countdown. The only change I am making is when I take off a link I write the date and a note to Joe on the back. I am going to save all of them and give them to him when he comes home. The little picture of him sticking out of the cup is a "flat daddy" that Skyler made at one of the going away meetings. He is on a little Popsicle stick and we are supposed to bring him with us and take pictures with him. Skyler and I are already talking about all the places we want to take flat daddy while Joe is away!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkyZL-of4hPULYJEI_cpjzrH7pWurGQY_a6PZFgsjZWD7iLAwmym-yqy7iOG4XcpfTaHv-eNAg5123KaRCQT5zLRWijzoshQ5bcNrod_IJ1AsCeFD4N6ZWHrk6HmgKtqeDEZproE6_hQ/s1600/Wall4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkyZL-of4hPULYJEI_cpjzrH7pWurGQY_a6PZFgsjZWD7iLAwmym-yqy7iOG4XcpfTaHv-eNAg5123KaRCQT5zLRWijzoshQ5bcNrod_IJ1AsCeFD4N6ZWHrk6HmgKtqeDEZproE6_hQ/s1600/Wall4.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The biggest way that Skyler has coped with Joe being gone is with "Bear." We went to build-a-bear a few weeks before Joe left and he recorded his voice for both Skyler and baby E and Skyler made the bears. He talks about putting in the hearts and stepping on the pedal ALL the time! Skyler takes Bear with him almost everywhere and sleeps with him. It has been so helpful since Skyler hasn't been able to talk to Joe at all since he left. He loves to press the foot and hear daddy talk about how much he loves and misses him. Skyler will be bringing the camouflage bear that he made for his brother to the hospital when he meets him!</div>
<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/AVvXsEhpBtDEB4zzxde_zAUr3BC3LZD0ZrrUgW5aLPX6-mxNXr6f4OjnmIdXrVeru-gMiJaO0GylkyWEB-aVOB9FN6J_DGekHRR75isBLDufh0jZ5s5Rbzff_CK7HUx25jtyRp1pOWtW3y9jJpY/s1600/Deployment1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBtDEB4zzxde_zAUr3BC3LZD0ZrrUgW5aLPX6-mxNXr6f4OjnmIdXrVeru-gMiJaO0GylkyWEB-aVOB9FN6J_DGekHRR75isBLDufh0jZ5s5Rbzff_CK7HUx25jtyRp1pOWtW3y9jJpY/s1600/Deployment1.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I swear the camo shirt was completely accidental!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am hoping these coping techniques will help Skyler through this time, but honestly I have no idea how to help a two year old understand how long it will be before his daddy comes home. We are just going to take it one day at a time.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; text-align: left;"><tbody></tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; text-align: left;"><tbody></tbody></table>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-91848137927847226602014-10-23T08:00:00.000-05:002014-10-23T08:00:06.656-05:00Spider Web Sensory Play<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I picked up spiderweb material and plastic rings for a care package topping, I knew I wanted to use the leftovers in a sensory bin. I couldn't believe that a sensory bin so easy to throw together would keep Skyler so entertained! This bin is a lot of fun!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KhmqjuujOWwVw7qV1s1TkoIATSWY0F-NDA_7mFIUwapzE3BHxxjB0DOsug_7BW-iUq66_mKkA1Pqbtj8GlutuwPzGlxd9XzBkQ1Q8Odj9X648bNUHd1a_6Sjg36HKBujsnXpgw9bMic/s1600/SpiderBin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KhmqjuujOWwVw7qV1s1TkoIATSWY0F-NDA_7mFIUwapzE3BHxxjB0DOsug_7BW-iUq66_mKkA1Pqbtj8GlutuwPzGlxd9XzBkQ1Q8Odj9X648bNUHd1a_6Sjg36HKBujsnXpgw9bMic/s1600/SpiderBin1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All I did to put this sensory bin together was pull out handfuls of the web material and fluffed it up a bit before layering it in the bin. It doesn't look like much, but once you pull on it a little, it takes up a lot of space! I scattered the plastic spider rings on top and we were ready to play!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhsMRsYmrlzaWs6Do6GeNcYrSqE17vRAOpzGjR0uWEh2JhJwUheEyO4oNXhQ7ukpYxdjNJOiPtVx6YEn1i3V4Vg64B1j7SkDtmZ_Kj6R5T5w6eUx7cMXeSuuqdhQiin-qucIk3Vs3vyE/s1600/SpiderBin2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhsMRsYmrlzaWs6Do6GeNcYrSqE17vRAOpzGjR0uWEh2JhJwUheEyO4oNXhQ7ukpYxdjNJOiPtVx6YEn1i3V4Vg64B1j7SkDtmZ_Kj6R5T5w6eUx7cMXeSuuqdhQiin-qucIk3Vs3vyE/s1600/SpiderBin2.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpMDUtDD8yKkIEsXG8riyeH2R7RZWvEe1_FIymTUQetMJZGE1EYrjowYZr8RG1bWhUV1l1OVD6Uh4ft3eIShFLK6lgwNc3cu2Bcata45SDPt1g0iMorDoYldcvgX39qp73S5RovIapfg/s1600/SpiderBin3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpMDUtDD8yKkIEsXG8riyeH2R7RZWvEe1_FIymTUQetMJZGE1EYrjowYZr8RG1bWhUV1l1OVD6Uh4ft3eIShFLK6lgwNc3cu2Bcata45SDPt1g0iMorDoYldcvgX39qp73S5RovIapfg/s1600/SpiderBin3.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhW06rEaJMTbAKvvGybV79eoQZIzvu6mVkBrKszCXGWZp0lN0yb68HRZKHa7GESp1bw_fLX-RHXTw07OxgvJPv-AOs-8NtTJrJC0GIAPt6qo8BbXfJFJefXRUbWnDioLyo4ZoipzAEixM/s1600/SpiderBin5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhW06rEaJMTbAKvvGybV79eoQZIzvu6mVkBrKszCXGWZp0lN0yb68HRZKHa7GESp1bw_fLX-RHXTw07OxgvJPv-AOs-8NtTJrJC0GIAPt6qo8BbXfJFJefXRUbWnDioLyo4ZoipzAEixM/s1600/SpiderBin5.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was pleasantly surprised with how much the spiders grip to the web material. The little legs and ring hold on to the web so whenever you try to pull a spider out it brings a lot of the webbing with it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6QYUquaKLWSokigd0JThNQejRuFMOol_lxVYX1VugCgWhUu3yc3T2Wk0ZT7gbT4-qNxFJJgf-jwIkMKFCoFoMdze1VIBpszxxxb2W_SU774M5uv5paq6IdzYRbeclzCRvoHYP5Rli1A/s1600/SpiderBin6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6QYUquaKLWSokigd0JThNQejRuFMOol_lxVYX1VugCgWhUu3yc3T2Wk0ZT7gbT4-qNxFJJgf-jwIkMKFCoFoMdze1VIBpszxxxb2W_SU774M5uv5paq6IdzYRbeclzCRvoHYP5Rli1A/s1600/SpiderBin6.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzr5pv6-GkCW27dbtok6WVqE3axpAUpd75fFyYnX5Do-eT-1j1VkoyZMBkPOoiiTPckLTOcB33FxvLwHP76N7ZAQ_1tGdXL0UZAg3yurI4f6hiiJaRNJBJtqTTqWdqNT8G8OQTccOtnNA/s1600/SpiderBin8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzr5pv6-GkCW27dbtok6WVqE3axpAUpd75fFyYnX5Do-eT-1j1VkoyZMBkPOoiiTPckLTOcB33FxvLwHP76N7ZAQ_1tGdXL0UZAg3yurI4f6hiiJaRNJBJtqTTqWdqNT8G8OQTccOtnNA/s1600/SpiderBin8.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZA5ztE3rnTqfKM1aI5SFfPlyxvI56u7wiaf_W38C38O56ZxxJwgfiX5FsN424Pay5t8cuJkAxGrcHJFgA55G2pvZQthU2PIjk3ugVWZxTAAyHJkgL7_2UtpuoqGt201gMrNVO-bkOK0/s1600/SpiderBin9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZA5ztE3rnTqfKM1aI5SFfPlyxvI56u7wiaf_W38C38O56ZxxJwgfiX5FsN424Pay5t8cuJkAxGrcHJFgA55G2pvZQthU2PIjk3ugVWZxTAAyHJkgL7_2UtpuoqGt201gMrNVO-bkOK0/s1600/SpiderBin9.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The webbing stretches really far! Skyler loved just pulling little bits of it as high as he could reach. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif81DI_g1UhyphenhyphensvckXHGHvTNRWAvyAjqSdLNKhoGW4-pDLE5n_poIvRBuDj0b-yuAGoFsmYdhd1iqRkpP3hTaKBw9FKRW_yPqyB2A1bV-er44H_NsFcjEdGlt5THe5u7D2zgavfCdJRNRs/s1600/SpiderBin10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif81DI_g1UhyphenhyphensvckXHGHvTNRWAvyAjqSdLNKhoGW4-pDLE5n_poIvRBuDj0b-yuAGoFsmYdhd1iqRkpP3hTaKBw9FKRW_yPqyB2A1bV-er44H_NsFcjEdGlt5THe5u7D2zgavfCdJRNRs/s1600/SpiderBin10.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course, the spider rings are fun all on their own as well!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisCDK-sM4xxgHuYq9Zm5wjP7I6wlB1bDho1zeWMTiwUch3jfTWf6ATxh4HqvmsFzmavnqp2uS77Xhd3KS30JavUnYzfJPNjPO6EWLZnxTC_k2QlojINOM3LP9LkU61ssArwpXS-9r-1a4/s1600/SpiderBin11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisCDK-sM4xxgHuYq9Zm5wjP7I6wlB1bDho1zeWMTiwUch3jfTWf6ATxh4HqvmsFzmavnqp2uS77Xhd3KS30JavUnYzfJPNjPO6EWLZnxTC_k2QlojINOM3LP9LkU61ssArwpXS-9r-1a4/s1600/SpiderBin11.jpg" height="320" width="192" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcvn13a9iUkoOjPXvAqgUOnMRrz1E8zHXuuOGqqGSyYSwiFGS8OnMtL1xmkQ9PdD4oxSy3Fawdmd87YpGNfgbODCr2Yj3FvMSdLNIjI-H0E0vj2zAwqA1j91Yf9nRVZ2fQ4FVcwhSqfg/s1600/SpiderBin12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcvn13a9iUkoOjPXvAqgUOnMRrz1E8zHXuuOGqqGSyYSwiFGS8OnMtL1xmkQ9PdD4oxSy3Fawdmd87YpGNfgbODCr2Yj3FvMSdLNIjI-H0E0vj2zAwqA1j91Yf9nRVZ2fQ4FVcwhSqfg/s1600/SpiderBin12.jpg" height="320" width="192" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The longer you play, the more tangled the rings become. By the end, Skyler would pull up bits of webbing and there would be spiders hidden all throughout the part he pulled. Such a fun peek-a-boo game! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fgdEYMs4Sh8Z2FAYCYspndcvq8_uYeASrqGJ5t5OUZjiHQIdzAXlnrqUqTnum9ebeOsXFWE8EgvgIaXFZrNGOkEuo2fHp6C_Eyp3GxslWQUuv4zvn5So5jbnYnLvlzZvlP3HCqunHIk/s1600/SpiderBin13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fgdEYMs4Sh8Z2FAYCYspndcvq8_uYeASrqGJ5t5OUZjiHQIdzAXlnrqUqTnum9ebeOsXFWE8EgvgIaXFZrNGOkEuo2fHp6C_Eyp3GxslWQUuv4zvn5So5jbnYnLvlzZvlP3HCqunHIk/s1600/SpiderBin13.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOp1WOXcH4G4TIi80MjbiaMgXGMMWDc3T1bKB6Oa_KU8VsozIRzBspiVAWzqYPepXEq7lI6l-o7HJCBmOD9HKVBWGBVyqnfwl8OahnlvQ-P_EUqxeoRkfTo9QwvjPveNJo6s8BTMBeUY/s1600/SpiderBin15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOp1WOXcH4G4TIi80MjbiaMgXGMMWDc3T1bKB6Oa_KU8VsozIRzBspiVAWzqYPepXEq7lI6l-o7HJCBmOD9HKVBWGBVyqnfwl8OahnlvQ-P_EUqxeoRkfTo9QwvjPveNJo6s8BTMBeUY/s1600/SpiderBin15.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOMM8hNApxbymhhOzRIuVd47vQZR7iaIoxmxfi-sQHNZR_K-xsPkBrkVmBKCMdSgWgmRxFuRc31CsfON0VMZQB47dj6Cb5tUYKLRb45f-HHZnMHKY3dk5l2OV2l13fro3b5E8uWw5DD0/s1600/SpiderBin16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOMM8hNApxbymhhOzRIuVd47vQZR7iaIoxmxfi-sQHNZR_K-xsPkBrkVmBKCMdSgWgmRxFuRc31CsfON0VMZQB47dj6Cb5tUYKLRb45f-HHZnMHKY3dk5l2OV2l13fro3b5E8uWw5DD0/s1600/SpiderBin16.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This simple sensory bin is a lot of fun and very festive with Halloween coming up. Just playing with the webbing and spiders was fun for a toddler. Picking out the spiders and carefully picking off all of the webbing stuck to them was great fine motor practice, and older children could do it as a color sort or counting activity. This activity could be extended to many other learning activities. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvr9CtPn9s8xm54GigkyXMOBkV346aBM5FYhQjFGheosPoMxsIVN2L2AQK1YF0fvYzEntPixN4NODJ9IUbfSCkWoTQDXwA_u7vcWT_aEoA5jVRPvCv6uaJWLoBuONruGwhVswFfaYHi3o/s1600/SpiderBinCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvr9CtPn9s8xm54GigkyXMOBkV346aBM5FYhQjFGheosPoMxsIVN2L2AQK1YF0fvYzEntPixN4NODJ9IUbfSCkWoTQDXwA_u7vcWT_aEoA5jVRPvCv6uaJWLoBuONruGwhVswFfaYHi3o/s1600/SpiderBinCollage.jpg" height="400" width="132" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-76227462822759300942014-10-19T15:03:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:50:00.842-06:00Fall Leaf Painting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have been really enjoying our walks around the neighborhood lately. With all of the beautiful colored leaves and the perfect weather we have been having, it is such a wonderful time of year! Skyler will often talk about the colors he sees and the sounds he hears (stepping on crunchy leaves and listening to the leaves blow around are such great noises!), but then he will also say things like "The leaves change colors and fall off before the snow comes! And then the snow plow will come!!" in the most excited voice. It is adorable, but I am just happy to enjoy this beautiful fall weather before that season that shall not be named arrives!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
During a recent walk we saw the most amazing red colored leaves, so we grabbed a bunch to take home and had a lot of fun with this simple painting activity. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDW1RQRLE9YDxgiVhZfzbVguDga46lHhVvxKNirSMzhyWND2pvdF6obsiCyrlT75kdxCXGOtFbGyIz51e48IVMhijRt1flNuCMz160racuo-t6T43VoJAYGKHVHHEqEzq3pGKbj3e6mY/s1600/LeafPainting1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDW1RQRLE9YDxgiVhZfzbVguDga46lHhVvxKNirSMzhyWND2pvdF6obsiCyrlT75kdxCXGOtFbGyIz51e48IVMhijRt1flNuCMz160racuo-t6T43VoJAYGKHVHHEqEzq3pGKbj3e6mY/s1600/LeafPainting1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
To start, I put a loop of tape on the bottom of the leaves and Skyler stuck them onto his paper. I loved how it looked like they were blowing around and he was so proud of setting this up on his own!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg60BWztJwOIqaxG5a9O1qlnWU73zwCEWz6ns6jBAYwTMlF6-O52kKNGvUFgB5ZWLD3J5r9uDHuJiqMp91TFE8uKOc3PsJqtHX-FsNXKaWhSXcTFfx2en_1qmRZuhrPbKEWfL9GsAdr_BA/s1600/LeafPainting2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg60BWztJwOIqaxG5a9O1qlnWU73zwCEWz6ns6jBAYwTMlF6-O52kKNGvUFgB5ZWLD3J5r9uDHuJiqMp91TFE8uKOc3PsJqtHX-FsNXKaWhSXcTFfx2en_1qmRZuhrPbKEWfL9GsAdr_BA/s1600/LeafPainting2.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Next I squirted some yellow and red paint into a cup without mixing them, and let Skyler mix the paint as he went so we would have different shades of yellow, red, and orange with our leaves. I thought that Skyler would mostly paint on the leaves or on the white portions of paper, but I was happily surprised when he did big strokes from the insides of the leaves and out. He carefully filled up his paper and the resulting picture is so festive and fun!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4D8ObFgOa78-1dkt4UntmNE-_NvK4oHUstGy_HUzEEu_I00l0LGNdtGv4OyUBGRbK-nBBVYZqM2mDaPzAySnwHuSEI01LOBVzQ32UN7WdqM31uIP7A4aBLw4jKRFut3jeulKJ4zZcAPM/s1600/LeafPainting3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4D8ObFgOa78-1dkt4UntmNE-_NvK4oHUstGy_HUzEEu_I00l0LGNdtGv4OyUBGRbK-nBBVYZqM2mDaPzAySnwHuSEI01LOBVzQ32UN7WdqM31uIP7A4aBLw4jKRFut3jeulKJ4zZcAPM/s1600/LeafPainting3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1jQvmQHBZMupsHXUFbuZsxt2IDYtUSCdxSepCGeS4E5yVaeRw1XsW3BEweL6S5CA4mjeQKSIQosePKk1NXbnBFzLDPBGzxIcuAHk9l7KI6z_lXL4mGK4Rpp6yQT1qoprIc1dLnG7RqI/s1600/LeafPainting4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1jQvmQHBZMupsHXUFbuZsxt2IDYtUSCdxSepCGeS4E5yVaeRw1XsW3BEweL6S5CA4mjeQKSIQosePKk1NXbnBFzLDPBGzxIcuAHk9l7KI6z_lXL4mGK4Rpp6yQT1qoprIc1dLnG7RqI/s1600/LeafPainting4.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNxiAwOvWsL_4KeFu7jp-DsB5-VMN6NiTZ1vdm5sjKU1aa6R05gmEaTxLPcwVWUWlA5IL9s_xXBDTyD7qLpeI03Okvv-iTSPYbbkvKZ0IYBxrU9BqlpJyRlt29IzlC-9J5ik6pmXY7yo/s1600/LeafPainting5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNxiAwOvWsL_4KeFu7jp-DsB5-VMN6NiTZ1vdm5sjKU1aa6R05gmEaTxLPcwVWUWlA5IL9s_xXBDTyD7qLpeI03Okvv-iTSPYbbkvKZ0IYBxrU9BqlpJyRlt29IzlC-9J5ik6pmXY7yo/s1600/LeafPainting5.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhpXJMa_Yrp5zxMKOs8p5SXUCiM4KW5CuU1FlIXAfDlHkTBF_ecjaMTR_9SGBdKUYuq8dkXJExY07eSkxxFIas4wH8SDniPBEICQxtuUibXFhCeVq-qHIG7mQ7Bmt13pRg-geQQpnGbo/s1600/LeafPainting6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhpXJMa_Yrp5zxMKOs8p5SXUCiM4KW5CuU1FlIXAfDlHkTBF_ecjaMTR_9SGBdKUYuq8dkXJExY07eSkxxFIas4wH8SDniPBEICQxtuUibXFhCeVq-qHIG7mQ7Bmt13pRg-geQQpnGbo/s1600/LeafPainting6.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When Skyler told me he was finished with his painting, we went through and carefully peeled off the leaves and tape and were left with some amazing resist leaves! The final product is even more beautiful that I thought it would be and I just love it! Such a festive painting that we will use to decorate for the season for many years to come! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKAejK77HhCMinL0KR96nB0sqX4uM3JaeBSD4xcPWxBR83I-CYaMvrtf9JFUMQ1i4oTqLgIUcy9uUkJdgRblKPWErVxPJ7aHVFwbOv8lPioZK-Sy0v2FfdlrYzuqxfUaY3sW7f5Io1u8/s1600/LeafPainting7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKAejK77HhCMinL0KR96nB0sqX4uM3JaeBSD4xcPWxBR83I-CYaMvrtf9JFUMQ1i4oTqLgIUcy9uUkJdgRblKPWErVxPJ7aHVFwbOv8lPioZK-Sy0v2FfdlrYzuqxfUaY3sW7f5Io1u8/s1600/LeafPainting7.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This simple painting activity is a lot of fun, between the leaf collecting, deciding where to place the leaves, and watching the colors mix on the paper to resemble the leaves we see changing outside, we enjoyed this craft from start to finish!<br />
<br />
I have been asked about Skyler's paint cup and smock, both of which we love and use ALL the time. His <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FAB7I4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000FAB7I4&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=FJIEHMJYQYFZFSAF">spill proof paint cup is from Melissa and Doug</a>, and I got his <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005BZM6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00005BZM6&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=UDWLIGYW46MOWGR3">Crayola art smock</a> at Target in the craft aisle. I do not see it on their site anymore, but it is on Amazon!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFzU6F2k0lELP8JHrSBGbKAPCwtA_zS9if-p0VRnEi5s8z3Rn8MHPb0GNxG7fl5hEB64uzHC9Wy-ZyAZ8JbTqWq3ppZbvLHLnBKJ4M6l_kdhHgsHiDJyvV5pr0LaUxE74f15-9GGL214/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFzU6F2k0lELP8JHrSBGbKAPCwtA_zS9if-p0VRnEi5s8z3Rn8MHPb0GNxG7fl5hEB64uzHC9Wy-ZyAZ8JbTqWq3ppZbvLHLnBKJ4M6l_kdhHgsHiDJyvV5pr0LaUxE74f15-9GGL214/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" height="400" width="132" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_322030646"></span><span id="goog_322030647"></span><span id="goog_322030648"></span><span id="goog_322030649"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com221tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-83973512079218501572014-10-12T23:48:00.000-05:002014-10-22T22:16:27.777-05:00Toddler Decorated Pumpkins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i></div>
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We enjoyed a very full and fun family weekend starting off Saturday morning with this trip to Sever's Corn Maze. While we didn't actually do the corn maze, there were so many amazing activities at this spot - I can't believe it was a first time for all of us! Growing up in our hometown, my husband and I have gone to many local pumpkin patches and apple orchards, but not this nearby gem. We cannot wait to go back next year! Here are some of my favorite pictures from the morning. <i></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i> </i><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbMo2ljhQ_Vd7kvMY1VqUX59Nq1wupFcVORWkTio-LP8hAFuZN8R5YNE1acJ8ttUsc2Ot9PmOpR-0Feu_1-VThXtgv6zv9UEq8TZtJzKJ5f2AC4B0xzj9yEWJlMPyAaSh0bE1OTJxErg/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Vintage tractors were all over at the corn maze, and Skyler had to drive each one at least once!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMFkErX3m87B95xOAPqVUPPUZ1F1tiqQivFtMAiU2R06tJUkC-MY40NN8b8hyphenhyphenS2mSd4EBkqYMhXaak_TmQkYKo3G0PhzivH43aKJhsYtocdDuMbWeP_7o5_tSxTpNVmZSmOyqLzV5Yts/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMFkErX3m87B95xOAPqVUPPUZ1F1tiqQivFtMAiU2R06tJUkC-MY40NN8b8hyphenhyphenS2mSd4EBkqYMhXaak_TmQkYKo3G0PhzivH43aKJhsYtocdDuMbWeP_7o5_tSxTpNVmZSmOyqLzV5Yts/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYWeJoqothDkrVsGJx_YuEn_uTLoh65S3XCMTOnfCePCSRCOeyIUKNvm7ljANaDEc4QB1T1uc_Hsvup5dNLez2-U2alWCBd1oEpKoj-OTrSw8wEeAJibgnmMUH-t0wf3A5S2gtA-oROs/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYWeJoqothDkrVsGJx_YuEn_uTLoh65S3XCMTOnfCePCSRCOeyIUKNvm7ljANaDEc4QB1T1uc_Hsvup5dNLez2-U2alWCBd1oEpKoj-OTrSw8wEeAJibgnmMUH-t0wf3A5S2gtA-oROs/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins4.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A vintage fire truck was open for children to explore as well! We made a few stops and Skyler loved standing inside and looking up the ladder. Even though we didn't do the corn maze, we did try out the much smaller hay maze which was perfect for a toddler! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10wG-XWTnEQPAzx1m0DemUfp66NmfigbHmsvSvBQvq7MCqECiHit49sHX7UrmfCANrCXfGaaw3JR_JtaRraO-GUBy8o2ZF2fsFPkaMWPTlEffSan7Ccy1tgHpG0Ne0jDqxprrRjZripU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10wG-XWTnEQPAzx1m0DemUfp66NmfigbHmsvSvBQvq7MCqECiHit49sHX7UrmfCANrCXfGaaw3JR_JtaRraO-GUBy8o2ZF2fsFPkaMWPTlEffSan7Ccy1tgHpG0Ne0jDqxprrRjZripU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The little wooden train was one of Skyler's favorite parts of our trip. There were several tunnels to crawl through, windows for peek-a-boo, and a great bell to ring. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpIQ0TO6heqFeJRubRGMIPfAgan5zYUUiysazH16UQZ7pFmkmFXZlAIxb4iTSi6rawwWk0lQ8Urx1ZsFo_0Nayb-fABzusc4MEPI8V20jN7Wb-CSE1WacxnaLQ-R2RFk0cAjJGIQ_gZHg/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpIQ0TO6heqFeJRubRGMIPfAgan5zYUUiysazH16UQZ7pFmkmFXZlAIxb4iTSi6rawwWk0lQ8Urx1ZsFo_0Nayb-fABzusc4MEPI8V20jN7Wb-CSE1WacxnaLQ-R2RFk0cAjJGIQ_gZHg/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins5.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4RneyeTtOmSwXqi7P1sBxXR-7QMtgAYzHzYCMxBOKqRQqo5hz9XWk03EN87xLpJLD1Ns9Oyeh5Z8yv4_lpnaqrZfCFBlNGbRrA5PQx1C_fnUNUFwrQjjKIrhnkA4hYAQ0yTk9HgKh28/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4RneyeTtOmSwXqi7P1sBxXR-7QMtgAYzHzYCMxBOKqRQqo5hz9XWk03EN87xLpJLD1Ns9Oyeh5Z8yv4_lpnaqrZfCFBlNGbRrA5PQx1C_fnUNUFwrQjjKIrhnkA4hYAQ0yTk9HgKh28/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins7.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDAa5_h1hkFz0Dr0sPdJe08LoAVMs5Re6LdQ163OC0oma6Qr-zYJuOLnWvIJvtKHE2k4FdiOf4sR0Y9RyFT5lf2goTw5A9Y22OsY5eO7glrqxsRzjl323boqHX-biv4m_AqXVJzwvu50/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDAa5_h1hkFz0Dr0sPdJe08LoAVMs5Re6LdQ163OC0oma6Qr-zYJuOLnWvIJvtKHE2k4FdiOf4sR0Y9RyFT5lf2goTw5A9Y22OsY5eO7glrqxsRzjl323boqHX-biv4m_AqXVJzwvu50/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins6.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My favorite was the corn pit. It was surprisingly hard to move around in the deep corn (especially at 30+ weeks pregnant!) and the corn was really cold. We had so much fun running it through our fingers, listening to the corn rain down, and walking as fast as we could before falling down. Of course there were several round of leg burying with the corn, which I found so much more enjoyable than being covered with sand!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMib60nN-5yZM7QeqXzV1CsYpHoasxziRzt5dJmz5IKLDmVBVA09taxwo2p3TUWCK18RBP6hzplBMx_G8v-Zsj9yokSJ8v656LJjm0YY7EYtlwXLWfQLyPgON_P_3_ReTygrlM7UySBgU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMib60nN-5yZM7QeqXzV1CsYpHoasxziRzt5dJmz5IKLDmVBVA09taxwo2p3TUWCK18RBP6hzplBMx_G8v-Zsj9yokSJ8v656LJjm0YY7EYtlwXLWfQLyPgON_P_3_ReTygrlM7UySBgU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins8.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXSjpNbNbDRQnxH6T5EVeSJFCDzh_XD15xWzu3ZoIdmYnF3RtGjtO5iBfMcCyHEi8TbWQvB_gFWes2EGlRjM_03TiDUrBv1BQ2upVE-J8-LX9sNhjFEqQ0uh4DI8WcDbr-REKZDxHMtc/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXSjpNbNbDRQnxH6T5EVeSJFCDzh_XD15xWzu3ZoIdmYnF3RtGjtO5iBfMcCyHEi8TbWQvB_gFWes2EGlRjM_03TiDUrBv1BQ2upVE-J8-LX9sNhjFEqQ0uh4DI8WcDbr-REKZDxHMtc/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins9.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The animals (kangaroos, lemurs, capybaras, and ostriches among the most interesting) and a ton of wooden signs with face cut-outs were other favorites for this little guy! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_sFGQ4HLQa1nJKAjZ9KmaXMO46yedy_nyroxxNmqAz0MXNzvkqpQvxlblV_ypP2Zgq0PzBxpa6ety_IGJzi05rdTzdhFig6ZJs0wwjHWWkA50mQz6qj7EeQiDIbJsAcMgwnDllU7rSs/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_sFGQ4HLQa1nJKAjZ9KmaXMO46yedy_nyroxxNmqAz0MXNzvkqpQvxlblV_ypP2Zgq0PzBxpa6ety_IGJzi05rdTzdhFig6ZJs0wwjHWWkA50mQz6qj7EeQiDIbJsAcMgwnDllU7rSs/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins10.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TOXTkpahhc_b870pkibHQDuw-FibRyVoVs3n2UTzIy6Yv-bdCDMP1q1t6QoyYmy1x3Y5n6F_bvWN5qWJWD4_4p254CaM-HUpZSMoPw9Le3YAmwLZkuYZXPgkyzr6_uF_Ee9wbTgb9g0/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TOXTkpahhc_b870pkibHQDuw-FibRyVoVs3n2UTzIy6Yv-bdCDMP1q1t6QoyYmy1x3Y5n6F_bvWN5qWJWD4_4p254CaM-HUpZSMoPw9Le3YAmwLZkuYZXPgkyzr6_uF_Ee9wbTgb9g0/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins11.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5Ij7d5HaK7mlMTXpSkcyqnBSVAZrHC1Bu7SOFjfqzxJtZmByjy4szF67R4UcuEHuBQcMKMjEiVTqr5qtemRZbCCL9d6dsQgVBLn_EAcag3LaZKMbuXzXkp12us3vOsMAVOqkmkP5FWE/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5Ij7d5HaK7mlMTXpSkcyqnBSVAZrHC1Bu7SOFjfqzxJtZmByjy4szF67R4UcuEHuBQcMKMjEiVTqr5qtemRZbCCL9d6dsQgVBLn_EAcag3LaZKMbuXzXkp12us3vOsMAVOqkmkP5FWE/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins12.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The purpose of our trip was to pick out some pumpkins to decorate, so we couldn't forget to stop at the pumpkin patch on our way out. After the longest nap ever (Thank you, Sever's!) we spent the afternoon decorating Skyler's three pumpkins. Skyler had a blast decorating his pumpkins almost entirely on his own! We started off by opening up one of the pumpkins to have a little sensory play. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6noBOmhvbBA-2CnypEbQdZ66te68xBRDz3VWWEnccm5nZDw8nHTsLgG3fE5j6xhtVdHclGoKatdh2v-chKbcFoxUBdI44EGCP97ZZsNDwemzKo9K8bpIaGbSVXunhTmdcAJf2GSeUms4/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6noBOmhvbBA-2CnypEbQdZ66te68xBRDz3VWWEnccm5nZDw8nHTsLgG3fE5j6xhtVdHclGoKatdh2v-chKbcFoxUBdI44EGCP97ZZsNDwemzKo9K8bpIaGbSVXunhTmdcAJf2GSeUms4/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins13.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOy0uzTVGw0mYSce9FGKk9ETgqvjSOk33WjQIluBmjkTnl0HywJcbKG4q5XNFAurcE9fXa32qULuY5Gj8IrTjd26yetKX7_-HIO_ZZ_mSQ0gjmD_vymIRuEnYKLQNHWTZxd-BzilvO7LU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOy0uzTVGw0mYSce9FGKk9ETgqvjSOk33WjQIluBmjkTnl0HywJcbKG4q5XNFAurcE9fXa32qULuY5Gj8IrTjd26yetKX7_-HIO_ZZ_mSQ0gjmD_vymIRuEnYKLQNHWTZxd-BzilvO7LU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins14.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I knew I wanted to have Skyler try the cookie cutter and rubber mallet method, so I went in search of cookie cutters that he would love and ended up with an assortment of vehicles. He was so excited to get started with this pumpkin!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvnywPeAo_0vcUVcMvLAljc6xndCi6en8ws0pmXBvOmapaH8fduWR0XjO0biDEJ3YSK74YjJRziu7zaCPzBcwgLqsZU7J6DS1iMQJz4C7W5SpmkGnjnJgu9xCkWmYHSkTu_D7DmcP_UU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvnywPeAo_0vcUVcMvLAljc6xndCi6en8ws0pmXBvOmapaH8fduWR0XjO0biDEJ3YSK74YjJRziu7zaCPzBcwgLqsZU7J6DS1iMQJz4C7W5SpmkGnjnJgu9xCkWmYHSkTu_D7DmcP_UU/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins15.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This was so much fun to do and Skyler loved it! I thought we would be able to fit more cutouts, but we ended up with one of each before Skyler started to lose interest. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAlVWeYOETq0TvQN1iWOryiRFc5blIxmLcUpWAXdku6c_IRewHKA9pqd4j6pCDHEunq92sFMNy5HJJRhzN0zxc1q1tRfB1f3zZnXGLmS4x3SmbNbTq7LQsL9FBGQzpE4OAF_cx5-CLn18/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAlVWeYOETq0TvQN1iWOryiRFc5blIxmLcUpWAXdku6c_IRewHKA9pqd4j6pCDHEunq92sFMNy5HJJRhzN0zxc1q1tRfB1f3zZnXGLmS4x3SmbNbTq7LQsL9FBGQzpE4OAF_cx5-CLn18/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins16.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Up next we did a simple painted pumpkin which was Skyler's favorite to do! Last year for his pumpkin we did finger paints (with a tape resist S) that he covered with stickers once dry. Whether it was the age difference, or using the brush instead of his fingers, he had so much more fun decorating with these methods this year! He sat and carefully painted his pumpkin until every side was filled, politely asking for more paint whenever he ran out. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85DNbefj0TDx7mpLoE_jc_KRYa9HhQcFOOK5tem19OhWQ5IrtcAKjrlzYDYQChVnifeZdcD5ySvHfMohd9Hf8qwN4VtEqhEORQtG2d9oW4utfc6F1KAYCsgbOzggd1WDq_BpT8LPZAqI/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85DNbefj0TDx7mpLoE_jc_KRYa9HhQcFOOK5tem19OhWQ5IrtcAKjrlzYDYQChVnifeZdcD5ySvHfMohd9Hf8qwN4VtEqhEORQtG2d9oW4utfc6F1KAYCsgbOzggd1WDq_BpT8LPZAqI/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins17.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggM7s4fEsfr5exis_ppb3rb_S2avUvUGMeGhnQEcZ8W91Oed3QE_acUiswMyGZj9aCwueJXQXm2odJX7cJv1kSw_NQAE4TeOQYiKpWOMe4gWqUwV2jQ9eWHGBZZfGQh3xUHlnFQ3qvBOA/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggM7s4fEsfr5exis_ppb3rb_S2avUvUGMeGhnQEcZ8W91Oed3QE_acUiswMyGZj9aCwueJXQXm2odJX7cJv1kSw_NQAE4TeOQYiKpWOMe4gWqUwV2jQ9eWHGBZZfGQh3xUHlnFQ3qvBOA/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins18.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zFrrIy3tX9Mca74n6biGlyqedQtW20vZEu4mMn2rNTlV4Y2OHrkKcyCymtB38OXsmx694DIfe3YA58WhO2-5uIxshPnS5NLxNx6uh4N31PYcKTpprI1VcXjX3IdzjM6QsHRhryJG9VY/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zFrrIy3tX9Mca74n6biGlyqedQtW20vZEu4mMn2rNTlV4Y2OHrkKcyCymtB38OXsmx694DIfe3YA58WhO2-5uIxshPnS5NLxNx6uh4N31PYcKTpprI1VcXjX3IdzjM6QsHRhryJG9VY/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins19.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6eNm_OnXvFLizMTnBqs9GT6u-3ozRvPb00_hL2-zpqKsBDJO2JQLYHOUbZ5SetMTl15eTtt7JNI2l5QoMKydMveyaDmSs8985GDAyw4a9zqDSxEd__7OsVXCVmYmDloGvv6a__aZu18/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6eNm_OnXvFLizMTnBqs9GT6u-3ozRvPb00_hL2-zpqKsBDJO2JQLYHOUbZ5SetMTl15eTtt7JNI2l5QoMKydMveyaDmSs8985GDAyw4a9zqDSxEd__7OsVXCVmYmDloGvv6a__aZu18/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins20.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Similar to last year, we did a simple sticker pumpkin for the third and final decoration. These were actually the leftover stickers from last year. Again, this was a completely independent pumpkin for Skyler to decorate since he can easily remove the foam stickers from the backing. He did this pumpkin very quickly. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3jyHcOwZyvgMk7yLJS4gzjqoP2jkiRAh_Zf6DewjkDHmR0GYic-mdq-XIivaqp5s1JLbaowRDF-Z6uw-74Gdvf_8rpvxx4EGGAaH2QyR5bEsUzkoaVos3OEKBq3tOP1XdDE_Bn3WUON8/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3jyHcOwZyvgMk7yLJS4gzjqoP2jkiRAh_Zf6DewjkDHmR0GYic-mdq-XIivaqp5s1JLbaowRDF-Z6uw-74Gdvf_8rpvxx4EGGAaH2QyR5bEsUzkoaVos3OEKBq3tOP1XdDE_Bn3WUON8/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins21.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler's foam sticker decorated pumpkin turned out so fun and glittery. I was kind of surprised all of his stickers stayed on one side!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUd3_rU60TcUl-SelJjRCdLucPs1BpLwYZS_rUDeXGiRCo29b2AzmyKy06KV93J1lZWDcWNckv-eea0sYSeOXpehYU9HTFmPR201Ym1XvOdXGMzDfkgeypXZIINATWMeUghJR0Sir6Qg/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins22.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUd3_rU60TcUl-SelJjRCdLucPs1BpLwYZS_rUDeXGiRCo29b2AzmyKy06KV93J1lZWDcWNckv-eea0sYSeOXpehYU9HTFmPR201Ym1XvOdXGMzDfkgeypXZIINATWMeUghJR0Sir6Qg/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins22.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The cut out pumpkin turned out pretty cute, but I am excited to see it lit up when it gets dark out! We haven't had a chance to try it out the past two nights, but Skyler will be so excited to see the glowing vehicles tomorrow night!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBniq9aeGy62bX6Aj3EcSRFJ-QrGPP36uD8iWlsW8DV7GRNEx2n2OsMvEIkdJk7jehynFWm-3-O3lC8CUCQWWANlwyrmxwNWvWixx6EIYLA-w7Z8bg2dDYjeF9Bqz0vMXjrIRdcVlJWk/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBniq9aeGy62bX6Aj3EcSRFJ-QrGPP36uD8iWlsW8DV7GRNEx2n2OsMvEIkdJk7jehynFWm-3-O3lC8CUCQWWANlwyrmxwNWvWixx6EIYLA-w7Z8bg2dDYjeF9Bqz0vMXjrIRdcVlJWk/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins23.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler's beautifully painted pumpkin is my favorite one. He worked so hard on it and I think it turned out so cute! We have an owl shaped pumpkin holder that I am excited to put out on our front step to hold this pumpkin. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRpMqRRSsyAW3s-FgfKeVvxR4ep9Q61P1t5J1Ylm2a5gwmjGQrNMvVXnU3Bmn7Ndkx-iBAEWI8piR8ivmK7_Lp55L7E1_WMcpnMWM1dtueDI7nkebaoAEfITMSgFB7WCthbzxlOdXMpY/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRpMqRRSsyAW3s-FgfKeVvxR4ep9Q61P1t5J1Ylm2a5gwmjGQrNMvVXnU3Bmn7Ndkx-iBAEWI8piR8ivmK7_Lp55L7E1_WMcpnMWM1dtueDI7nkebaoAEfITMSgFB7WCthbzxlOdXMpY/s1600/ToddlerPumpkins24.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1169368676"></span><span id="goog_1169368677"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These three simple decorating techniques were great for a very independent toddler! Each one was a lot of fun on its own, and you definitely do not need three pumpkins to do all of these. Last year we had fun painting and (once dry) placing stickers on one pumpkin. Painting and cookie cutouts would be another easy one to combine on one pumpkin. </div>
<span id="goog_1169368676"></span><span id="goog_1169368677"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRfPyE7WEcW63jMmR5FZrp2_o767KZ7RZj00zzsEvVOq0CNTgrO1HKXl6wgy-vgtNBUw8O8rEGytpWkLyVTXclgXEhZxPiO5AC9ceqiV9Z4JF3pnPh8_nryMucDBNWQlVFUvd9rzeO3eU/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRfPyE7WEcW63jMmR5FZrp2_o767KZ7RZj00zzsEvVOq0CNTgrO1HKXl6wgy-vgtNBUw8O8rEGytpWkLyVTXclgXEhZxPiO5AC9ceqiV9Z4JF3pnPh8_nryMucDBNWQlVFUvd9rzeO3eU/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.jpg" height="400" width="100" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-39327588947284520252014-10-09T23:54:00.000-05:002014-10-22T22:16:41.108-05:00Little Pumpkin Craft<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This fun craft was one of the ways Skyler and I dealt with Joe being away for the past week and a half. I <a href="http://instagram.com/p/t8pWebjvEr/?modal=true">posted on Instagram</a> the last paper "chain" of our most recent daddy countdown. I had fun making the candy corn countdown and Skyler loved taking off a candy for every night daddy was gone! We have since taken off the last candy and can't wait to see him tomorrow!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A few weeks ago we went to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (one of our favorite places - where Joe and I got married and the location of more than one <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/07/two-year-photos-and-special-addition.html">family photo shoot</a>!) While we were there, Skyler found this "pumpkin house" and loved playing inside of it. The idea for this craft we made for daddy came from this picture as well as the most common nickname I use for Skyler. I call him "pumpkin" all the time (or some variation of it!)</div>
<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/AVvXsEjqWtpBAyZmgq7hEd_giPcKdm6ofCy_DqvVRbiXr17I67HomKqPJxm97gOy_Osimo695gzN33p37vdqZkZrS4ZvPkxVZujwcNtNRuo_aYHXf0-fW43NV5bmRwcqWV7jutm4FUwKOLNiVPs/s1600/DSC_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWtpBAyZmgq7hEd_giPcKdm6ofCy_DqvVRbiXr17I67HomKqPJxm97gOy_Osimo695gzN33p37vdqZkZrS4ZvPkxVZujwcNtNRuo_aYHXf0-fW43NV5bmRwcqWV7jutm4FUwKOLNiVPs/s1600/DSC_0333.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little pumpkin with some little pumpkins!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></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/AVvXsEinoUN6GrcIwKT4OYoqV06aZwm8C4lSzsKB9sKH8sPixcVCygm67fzkItHQV9T9j9t4mMpRK0CUYRpafyhaLs6s5ZdJzAaHD6zczySpoVgt8n_mM3rVGPGyPAQMltr4NQUU1Dx5rPknyBw/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoUN6GrcIwKT4OYoqV06aZwm8C4lSzsKB9sKH8sPixcVCygm67fzkItHQV9T9j9t4mMpRK0CUYRpafyhaLs6s5ZdJzAaHD6zczySpoVgt8n_mM3rVGPGyPAQMltr4NQUU1Dx5rPknyBw/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After an accidental similar picture was taken two years in a row, we had to get a third! (9/28/12, 9/21/13, 9/29/14)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To make this little pumpkin craft for daddy, I cut two pieces of contact paper, one for Skyler to decorate with tissue paper and one to cover his craft and a picture to be framed! I cut two orange pumpkin shapes and made one into a frame by just trimming near the edges. We added a green stem and leaf using green paper, white paper, and green paint. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9vi2naphj0l6YwybGRDFsEjhQNJn6FfnTHutdkt2fEJLb0A1-Fxn3bCYNxjd4MF6FIcOS8zlpoVQP9aRyiCqWRt1gMWOBnn-ygZ3F0dV6Mn0AC8Ar8aUiKu3uscvnwI2q186ZOzkC1s/s1600/Pumpkin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9vi2naphj0l6YwybGRDFsEjhQNJn6FfnTHutdkt2fEJLb0A1-Fxn3bCYNxjd4MF6FIcOS8zlpoVQP9aRyiCqWRt1gMWOBnn-ygZ3F0dV6Mn0AC8Ar8aUiKu3uscvnwI2q186ZOzkC1s/s1600/Pumpkin1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/09/fall-tree-contact-paper-play.html">loves using contact paper</a> in any way. For his little pumpkin frame, I gave him two shades of orange tissue paper and he carefully filled all of the sticky contact paper! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVx2P7bLIEm9jm2fvC45Kh2f-_T7Lq9ifIyMiVm2oHMx5KXBAg60fWLb8R66tjAest4JKnqWuc_0x_uchnPISAtpKpBFKKPbfhP2w63KB_PDKCI0IkR4-9Teu8dSn713W_x86eT8vjHU/s1600/Pumpkin2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVx2P7bLIEm9jm2fvC45Kh2f-_T7Lq9ifIyMiVm2oHMx5KXBAg60fWLb8R66tjAest4JKnqWuc_0x_uchnPISAtpKpBFKKPbfhP2w63KB_PDKCI0IkR4-9Teu8dSn713W_x86eT8vjHU/s1600/Pumpkin2.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQWyhJHiCwWhjxpmoj8JiQFAf6JMq70s_BnyZRzfJafhQyzZyOVw0cwew-HyGTqC5fUJVcglMZPe7CV7sFAApwGNi9s9unE6eSFU1ivVwLVohrjsVGtDnwbDBnYFWlmRpf1OxX2YW17A/s1600/Pumpkin3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQWyhJHiCwWhjxpmoj8JiQFAf6JMq70s_BnyZRzfJafhQyzZyOVw0cwew-HyGTqC5fUJVcglMZPe7CV7sFAApwGNi9s9unE6eSFU1ivVwLVohrjsVGtDnwbDBnYFWlmRpf1OxX2YW17A/s1600/Pumpkin3.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbetcKbKdUzJpYr-z6ji4OaVif-rKMrkeh-Sc4ZnT4yeGiPKnJ1ZicteNwL6p2-5q5q1SFg-ufIu-180bKlBN-34T9smp8aTcHt9lDrJnLiI3jdMTeia6nzefn9O3i6cDFM3ZgguDnhPw/s1600/Pumpkin4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbetcKbKdUzJpYr-z6ji4OaVif-rKMrkeh-Sc4ZnT4yeGiPKnJ1ZicteNwL6p2-5q5q1SFg-ufIu-180bKlBN-34T9smp8aTcHt9lDrJnLiI3jdMTeia6nzefn9O3i6cDFM3ZgguDnhPw/s1600/Pumpkin4.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Once he was done, I placed the picture of him in the middle. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVijo562PoURzRmnT_OVMYY30xNOLPUjoY6qJG0mLomAqKzv7932R06zSjs9OJCxpLaK47nQ5csQci58NZ86adj17objfYnP-f_x67lzKwWFOw8qRsdMeiBs7J5tjVvgsqvN6Xd04cFY/s1600/Pumpkin5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVijo562PoURzRmnT_OVMYY30xNOLPUjoY6qJG0mLomAqKzv7932R06zSjs9OJCxpLaK47nQ5csQci58NZ86adj17objfYnP-f_x67lzKwWFOw8qRsdMeiBs7J5tjVvgsqvN6Xd04cFY/s1600/Pumpkin5.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I put the other piece of contact paper down over both the tissue and picture. This step isn't really necessary, but I liked how it held the tissue paper down. You could just glue the picture on top. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFWQAmHtdYhv2CSHoV_ncyecn-dFkYyGUVgJkhuAPs2j5hdg8KwOIJHIoUlCX0TUQ__N50CZaKoWopwapoSNHu0KDsUTaRBYDtx-rgobPq9Xet-k8CEGln5f31wdZnW8LbmFdPCySnNk/s1600/Pumpkin6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFWQAmHtdYhv2CSHoV_ncyecn-dFkYyGUVgJkhuAPs2j5hdg8KwOIJHIoUlCX0TUQ__N50CZaKoWopwapoSNHu0KDsUTaRBYDtx-rgobPq9Xet-k8CEGln5f31wdZnW8LbmFdPCySnNk/s1600/Pumpkin6.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I glued the pumpkin shaped "frame" on top of the contact paper and cut it out. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKKdZD3sFVjqVP4IDh5EXQEEODMR9FnF4Lr-_mWegmYVn0cgYrbEDcYFNhP3_Ie5Lxwiv8JcKIYIuH-U41pfHvcJPCSMHZETW2rUztELlrxsHGuau-rjNLfjqICyqdTknAFjI4G36rZk/s1600/Pumpkin7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKKdZD3sFVjqVP4IDh5EXQEEODMR9FnF4Lr-_mWegmYVn0cgYrbEDcYFNhP3_Ie5Lxwiv8JcKIYIuH-U41pfHvcJPCSMHZETW2rUztELlrxsHGuau-rjNLfjqICyqdTknAFjI4G36rZk/s1600/Pumpkin7.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At this point, add the stem (and leaf which we made later) and it would make a really cute suncatcher! I actually preferred it as a suncatcher, but wanted it to be more durable for Joe, so I added the other pumpkin shape to the back. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTo5_GLT6v_9Un9Jj7kr2ne5NspO6KDdi_PdRtGMrSiNt5JKuoGvkOdcHn_HFixhFop5eLpjTNevh4tPq-VJTQ2vuqjd5IvOKpCSfMxZmDS8Uhk9b2RMM-ArGUMOw6ZV3JMrs-UV3ay-c/s1600/Pumpkin8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTo5_GLT6v_9Un9Jj7kr2ne5NspO6KDdi_PdRtGMrSiNt5JKuoGvkOdcHn_HFixhFop5eLpjTNevh4tPq-VJTQ2vuqjd5IvOKpCSfMxZmDS8Uhk9b2RMM-ArGUMOw6ZV3JMrs-UV3ay-c/s1600/Pumpkin8.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We made the leaf with one sweet green hand print. Skyler made enough hand prints to make a little pumpkin for our entire family, the boy loves to make hand prints! I wrote on the back, and we are ready to give it to daddy when he gets home! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhoV-fk0iu5GB4jU_kn0cl0yFZUFVE-Sl8oY-0bim-9Uq66IFWvXa8uczU3cdFJhk-BAOe_PEnXF49adM5hHz3RSAztNf7T7ITL1Bh09F1wMxVQ1K_RQrTMZk5bde-U_7tEBC8yxmdS8/s1600/Pumpkin11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhoV-fk0iu5GB4jU_kn0cl0yFZUFVE-Sl8oY-0bim-9Uq66IFWvXa8uczU3cdFJhk-BAOe_PEnXF49adM5hHz3RSAztNf7T7ITL1Bh09F1wMxVQ1K_RQrTMZk5bde-U_7tEBC8yxmdS8/s1600/Pumpkin11.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWjpIdRL68_d1CmD-F9OsoSN-YYtrvjDwA-Q_ufMMBrdxwja5lt5fHWMEPUVgd-ex2obQbItR3Bk3HjhcAicZXByqvZ5tX5mZaMiL36PXmsoToniUkYnFCw8KKzQ4oV-NtOMQzexYgV0/s1600/Pumpkin10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWjpIdRL68_d1CmD-F9OsoSN-YYtrvjDwA-Q_ufMMBrdxwja5lt5fHWMEPUVgd-ex2obQbItR3Bk3HjhcAicZXByqvZ5tX5mZaMiL36PXmsoToniUkYnFCw8KKzQ4oV-NtOMQzexYgV0/s1600/Pumpkin10.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This little pumpkin craft was a lot of fun for both of us to make, and it could be used for a home decoration/keepsake or given to another family member or teacher! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-803834337522464922014-09-18T13:36:00.000-05:002014-09-18T13:39:13.354-05:00Fall Tree Contact Paper Play<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have been enjoying some fall decorating around our house. We made <a href="http://www.funathomewithkids.com/2014/08/fall-window-art-leaf-suncatchers-free.html">Fun at Home with Kids beautiful leaf suncatchers</a> and Skyler put up decals on his windows all on his own! It has been awhile since we had anything on our dining room window, so I decided it was time for a new contact paper play scene. You can see our <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2013/12/contact-paper-tree.html">Christmas Tree</a>, <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/01/valentine-contact-paper-play.html">Valentine Heart</a>, <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/03/contact-paper-rainbow.html">Tissue Paper Rainbow</a>, and <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/04/easter-egg-hunt-contact-paper-play.html">Easter Egg Basket</a> from past months.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2Win7rX09tVaH9MsYnR7JgWY7c7VTwuc8KysvYXYbtSoeBhFiOrPh2wCQmTo0kjukw0VN5g8oMZZI1FABHJFj4cIanpK-QS4tm8Vrz6qPurtjSGSzeUnRfkBfDvbVPtgwdT5pJPTVY8/s1600/Suncatchers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2Win7rX09tVaH9MsYnR7JgWY7c7VTwuc8KysvYXYbtSoeBhFiOrPh2wCQmTo0kjukw0VN5g8oMZZI1FABHJFj4cIanpK-QS4tm8Vrz6qPurtjSGSzeUnRfkBfDvbVPtgwdT5pJPTVY8/s1600/Suncatchers.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPXmGC8oVYMYjv6H4Kz9KPU3jQ0fCoBtVxz3iqtfkEAi4kD9K2W4vH7eHfn3WSqcCgFVPznLDUrZzsa5JKaUrx2pP1bvJzg4oWNHedYNpXXURFlvsgHhGACzZI9FIPRWecX_ypwtZ6II/s1600/Suncatchers+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPXmGC8oVYMYjv6H4Kz9KPU3jQ0fCoBtVxz3iqtfkEAi4kD9K2W4vH7eHfn3WSqcCgFVPznLDUrZzsa5JKaUrx2pP1bvJzg4oWNHedYNpXXURFlvsgHhGACzZI9FIPRWecX_ypwtZ6II/s1600/Suncatchers+2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquJxDYvAlH7GzC3XlVBNWcOEgz-bWuo0Vh93ufDQBl1zdVzVw8OhIeldcAtcLii8rXkuqsdSh5V6UacbQ5USL7mnmZNhUWFiDkBwVDMkxiJoclHNxPO1rkWLlbtvikeFSzy26IVjRuAs/s1600/WindowDecals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquJxDYvAlH7GzC3XlVBNWcOEgz-bWuo0Vh93ufDQBl1zdVzVw8OhIeldcAtcLii8rXkuqsdSh5V6UacbQ5USL7mnmZNhUWFiDkBwVDMkxiJoclHNxPO1rkWLlbtvikeFSzy26IVjRuAs/s1600/WindowDecals.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Many trees have started changing colors around our house and we always talk about the colors as we walk or drive around. I knew Skyler would enjoy his own little tree to decorate. To make our contact paper tree, all I used was a piece of Contact Paper, a brown sharpie, scissors, tape, and fake fall leaves that I cut off a garland last year for our <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2013/12/sensory-bins.html">fall leaf sensory bin</a>. This activity is incredible simple to set up and a fun seasonal way to play and decorate!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZtgvh8pkzhex2bPjnt7sC82UwGiP7sYWRC0Ibtq3gBz4f5Jv1BcmvMhUZQieQ1NpFR1Rin-jHoZuUNz_dvTXO-eoFXClLKNEDiGObncISkx_Q2fJS7MuSAGX_6c-Qnhx-e7L-oJ9LkFI/s1600/Contact+Tree+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZtgvh8pkzhex2bPjnt7sC82UwGiP7sYWRC0Ibtq3gBz4f5Jv1BcmvMhUZQieQ1NpFR1Rin-jHoZuUNz_dvTXO-eoFXClLKNEDiGObncISkx_Q2fJS7MuSAGX_6c-Qnhx-e7L-oJ9LkFI/s1600/Contact+Tree+1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I started by drawing out the outline of a tree on the non-stick side of the contact paper. If I were to do this again, I would have colored in or painted the tree trunk and limbs. It is actually a lot easier to see when standing next to it, but it would look more festive if the tree could be more easily seen with or without leaves on it. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98E8omCHcVEtQEzR_cjLGYYKgQB_6rbtxKuufNX26TRrcoSgNlcy-OM3Am5WSMC-2PkWPhAbxAU4lBFje8JFlO40LlWOpW61UT4Zy8MrG3Mk26M2T5QVDFqfTQextSwZae5fa7aNcYxQ/s1600/Contact+Tree+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98E8omCHcVEtQEzR_cjLGYYKgQB_6rbtxKuufNX26TRrcoSgNlcy-OM3Am5WSMC-2PkWPhAbxAU4lBFje8JFlO40LlWOpW61UT4Zy8MrG3Mk26M2T5QVDFqfTQextSwZae5fa7aNcYxQ/s1600/Contact+Tree+2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZOipzGfftIOBkUboVnTKAamqxohbdCByKA6inBcelV9VNsg1O-crX2J7jmJNhEATUSnZ3V4-TX75Z3ytDOzjYgxjxiM43XKq0jSXpXQ1XbyS1tZ4Rw60GpSfG9vo8thXfVlOH1xYoUg/s1600/Contact+Tree+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZOipzGfftIOBkUboVnTKAamqxohbdCByKA6inBcelV9VNsg1O-crX2J7jmJNhEATUSnZ3V4-TX75Z3ytDOzjYgxjxiM43XKq0jSXpXQ1XbyS1tZ4Rw60GpSfG9vo8thXfVlOH1xYoUg/s1600/Contact+Tree+3.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After drawing the tree I peeled off the backing of the contact paper, held the non-stick side up to our door and taped the edges with the sticky side facing out. We were ready to play just minutes after starting! A very quick and fun activity for the last minute. I put the leaves into a bowl for Skyler and he happily started to decorate his tree. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhd1QOTZarVnA9n2R6Wha74h7OFJkjjKe9UNCQYaRLJlHaAkm7IrCw7REi9OeBuldPRqdKlrRV9AORiBs63ra1k_KJ2Y_z-h7vdwx15zzgMPtBomUA0i18W9pra0vUm0DRDZu28sXoM8/s1600/Contact+Tree+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhd1QOTZarVnA9n2R6Wha74h7OFJkjjKe9UNCQYaRLJlHaAkm7IrCw7REi9OeBuldPRqdKlrRV9AORiBs63ra1k_KJ2Y_z-h7vdwx15zzgMPtBomUA0i18W9pra0vUm0DRDZu28sXoM8/s1600/Contact+Tree+4.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPlLecku2aXU_vwLE7g8_7bcSpveHR9iOM0QU7XINTbkoACq3o7Lx0NM6SKeIM8f6BVO7EjXwyYddRFK8If80t5BtIHKCBU3Wg3CtRqCla1iANg77T2ZlI5msQGi0kAN7qUzWuCeiWtk/s1600/Contact+Tree+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPlLecku2aXU_vwLE7g8_7bcSpveHR9iOM0QU7XINTbkoACq3o7Lx0NM6SKeIM8f6BVO7EjXwyYddRFK8If80t5BtIHKCBU3Wg3CtRqCla1iANg77T2ZlI5msQGi0kAN7qUzWuCeiWtk/s1600/Contact+Tree+5.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler also had fun making the leaves "fall" which we haven't seen this year yet, but we talk about it when we see the changing colors! It was cool because the leaves have to be pressed down pretty well for them to stick, so as he was playing the occasional leaf would fall to the ground - just like a real fall tree. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4qdkhQJJRJxclu68DcnErSRCpqRfPL_HsSyQzIpNTo5GwuMJ1CZ_ANvKOcCi5JFQ4NCcViI1xrQGJQaHBgx19yPH9kNNHgfdnO5XfM4yKU7DgaBMDvcdyT2UQnIl37yNlOgsrryKbKI/s1600/Contact+Tree+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4qdkhQJJRJxclu68DcnErSRCpqRfPL_HsSyQzIpNTo5GwuMJ1CZ_ANvKOcCi5JFQ4NCcViI1xrQGJQaHBgx19yPH9kNNHgfdnO5XfM4yKU7DgaBMDvcdyT2UQnIl37yNlOgsrryKbKI/s1600/Contact+Tree+6.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxgnaFAIk-s7vkBLXLKAAY_HCoo4w2NxUWWF9gZLBnv2gD72fmQ4wFp9F5AoA1Vjl1eRwBbRn4-ZGW3QGF1InA3iuI9mLW8eNOYCoFyt_7l3_BtjkLvmcUB3lTZdVr-tIrWqcQ_Sh7mQ/s1600/Contact+Tree+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxgnaFAIk-s7vkBLXLKAAY_HCoo4w2NxUWWF9gZLBnv2gD72fmQ4wFp9F5AoA1Vjl1eRwBbRn4-ZGW3QGF1InA3iuI9mLW8eNOYCoFyt_7l3_BtjkLvmcUB3lTZdVr-tIrWqcQ_Sh7mQ/s1600/Contact+Tree+7.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The sticky paper is fun to touch all on its own! Skyler went back to the contact paper tree throughout the afternoon and enjoyed playing with the leaves on their own and with his trucks as well. The set up was a cinch and I know he will have fun with this festive decoration for many days to come. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-62305370952899447892014-09-09T14:13:00.001-05:002014-11-15T14:53:49.421-06:00Getting Ready <i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last night, hubby and I started a movie on Netflix and got to work organizing Skyler's summer clothing into bins to make room for his new fall/winter clothing. We weren't just adding to the bins, but we also took out some of the older bags that I last organized about a year ago - out came the newborn clothes, sleep sacks, 0-3 month clothing, and itty bitty socks and hats in preparation for our little one's arrival!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></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/AVvXsEjK4CPlP9FJ6xkR3bSMsTLHK-n9d0PnPnM-JesnOZrcvqOoTFmgP5oKTHx2qkC3jhR4YCr3OCwcwJOz1nSFs85cUFHOp_6vATt7Dx8_x9fhZUgVDjhnIU0RVX9bb5mIZ6lrXFFy6F_-wqI/s1600/DSC_0942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4CPlP9FJ6xkR3bSMsTLHK-n9d0PnPnM-JesnOZrcvqOoTFmgP5oKTHx2qkC3jhR4YCr3OCwcwJOz1nSFs85cUFHOp_6vATt7Dx8_x9fhZUgVDjhnIU0RVX9bb5mIZ6lrXFFy6F_-wqI/s1600/DSC_0942.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eeek!! It was so fun to pull out these tiny clothes again!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I have been itching to not only prepare Skyler's closet for his new clothing, but to see how much we are going to need to get for the new baby. With Skyler's birthday in June and baby E's ETA in December, we are complete opposite seasons for clothing. Luckily, we have a lot that will work, but I am excited that I get to buy this baby some new clothing of his own as well!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5V7AbQ-27RNXuQJlyr1YQwVoX7tlUZblDI52AHxc7WjSKe9S6S3S0YFYB1PsRb-gc4RvM6LGKU14Du1OpnijCu0OnPhFxa5AGkrHD21jnFzFJ5KunLOwZ-8TuEByPRBLcEifioxtbdLY/s1600/DSC_0940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5V7AbQ-27RNXuQJlyr1YQwVoX7tlUZblDI52AHxc7WjSKe9S6S3S0YFYB1PsRb-gc4RvM6LGKU14Du1OpnijCu0OnPhFxa5AGkrHD21jnFzFJ5KunLOwZ-8TuEByPRBLcEifioxtbdLY/s1600/DSC_0940.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.</i></span></div>
<br />
When I started organizing Skyler's clothing, I got rid of nothing and I am especially glad now that I even saved things he never wore because we might need them this time around. When we started accumulating baby clothes that Skyler was growing out of, I bought two massive bins from the Container Store and a pack of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BEBXH5O/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BEBXH5O&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=7T4EFOYJGEMKEZWC">vacuum seal bags</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httpminnemama-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00BEBXH5O" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I usually just toss the stuff he grows out of into a box in his closet and when it begins to overflow I go through and sort the clothes into similar sizes (I combine seasons, his 12 month bag has fleece Santa pajamas and summer shorts, but I just wanted to focus on size), fold them and stuff them into a bag along with a post it with the size(s) written on it. I also do separate bags for things like socks, hats, and mittens, and I have a separate bag for all of the handmade sweaters we get since they are harder to size.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uVJpmv7QlCMfkxIRb-ruf4apl-vgpWADuJZYpfyWo-KorHdZCeZBMNJ4eYISHavd7QPEEcp8R1L8mIm6J0svlDVpcMmScxAv4qTlyptSKDS3k3fMb0CA00AU8OzZdSrgurZ_uelhxLc/s1600/DSC_0933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uVJpmv7QlCMfkxIRb-ruf4apl-vgpWADuJZYpfyWo-KorHdZCeZBMNJ4eYISHavd7QPEEcp8R1L8mIm6J0svlDVpcMmScxAv4qTlyptSKDS3k3fMb0CA00AU8OzZdSrgurZ_uelhxLc/s1600/DSC_0933.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is the kind of thing I love to do, and it makes the upcoming arrival of baby #2 feel so so real!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-16443551830209318742014-08-29T20:00:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:54:13.722-06:00Big Boy Bed<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I just tucked (and so far once re-tucked) my baby into his "big boy bed" for the first time. Of all the big changes that have happened since Skyler grew into the toddler stage, this one stung harder than most! I think it has been a challenging move, for me especially, because he was still sleeping so great in the crib. But, with baby brother arriving in just over three months, I want Skyler to feel like he has his own space and that the baby isn't going to be suddenly taking over his old bed. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have been talking about Skyler's new bed for weeks. He knew when daddy got home from a work trip that we were going to go get his bed and set it up, so he has been very excited. I didn't show him the bedding ahead of time because I wanted it to be a surprise, but we have made a big enough deal about the bed that he knew it was a fun change!<br />
<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/AVvXsEglHBqa8S1SU6LkwSVLeWsH9iivlAjpQ1DzAA9VJWHqJM7H0vqr29iA1dkqY9FIO9JLyRxYhQF1wABDySy4Ih285st-O5lFKHqi7GjK0V7w7LhCxdaZPTmqPAEbaDF-JnQyDcaakHYzM20/s1600/Bed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHBqa8S1SU6LkwSVLeWsH9iivlAjpQ1DzAA9VJWHqJM7H0vqr29iA1dkqY9FIO9JLyRxYhQF1wABDySy4Ih285st-O5lFKHqi7GjK0V7w7LhCxdaZPTmqPAEbaDF-JnQyDcaakHYzM20/s1600/Bed2.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excited boy watching daddy set up his old crib in our room!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last night, we took apart the crib in Skyler's room and set it back up in our room, where the baby will be until he is sleeping through the night. Then back into big brother's room the crib will go, and a shared room it will become (at least until we move to a bigger home, or longer if they like their shared bedroom sleeping arrangement). For the "before" pictures of our rooms, check out <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2013/12/post-christmas-organization.html">this post</a> and <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/01/one-year-in-our-home.html">this post</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTT-Ze0EGHQrI6WvQPvdI8vcTKBMTKR7kDU8Zlf7QlCocMoeg_8aMJ7c_qw7yADVkF9PXPG1eVM5q0Io9kOXCE8RXWtiue0dZ64LC7XrPmZKzBZgJQ3rDDB95q_0fmuLIoFaSqM1tor0/s1600/Bed1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTT-Ze0EGHQrI6WvQPvdI8vcTKBMTKR7kDU8Zlf7QlCocMoeg_8aMJ7c_qw7yADVkF9PXPG1eVM5q0Io9kOXCE8RXWtiue0dZ64LC7XrPmZKzBZgJQ3rDDB95q_0fmuLIoFaSqM1tor0/s1600/Bed1.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></div>
<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/AVvXsEgGli4faPnCO4n7t-GK7WESitKHhWUsdDvhl4i8THx7IUC6QQJor1-EEmnXGp3s1vvy2qDvnpIFK0aWVZzH-ETv0a2rhNM24GAW7AT-nSEQksEb8-aFfADfCjxU-w1lfhM_w6vRRF_scE4/s1600/Bed3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGli4faPnCO4n7t-GK7WESitKHhWUsdDvhl4i8THx7IUC6QQJor1-EEmnXGp3s1vvy2qDvnpIFK0aWVZzH-ETv0a2rhNM24GAW7AT-nSEQksEb8-aFfADfCjxU-w1lfhM_w6vRRF_scE4/s1600/Bed3.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skyler "sleeping" in his old bed! The crib will eventually move against <br />
the other wall and will be decorated as a small nursery nook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After Skyler went to bed in the new crib zone, we got to work setting up his new twin bed with super special vehicle bedding. I thought about staying with the colors/theme of his current room, but knew that my little guy, who loves anything that moves, would flip over <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00462AQFW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00462AQFW&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=6NLYBZUW4DGXSGZI">this great bedding</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httpminnemama-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00462AQFW" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />.<br />
<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/AVvXsEgomEWrnMLHgZlDt_ShIFkTly-HyPeazwIDpbgnzS9ZxyDTYOGuwY4wex9-HiDHX-gWmVoeTCjO0AzfLYRCeMXkORL3voBYmx3MeCvY9uNqEKarRd5QG7Vi3cTYIh7pON7vx-dCAxDEmaU/s1600/Bed4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomEWrnMLHgZlDt_ShIFkTly-HyPeazwIDpbgnzS9ZxyDTYOGuwY4wex9-HiDHX-gWmVoeTCjO0AzfLYRCeMXkORL3voBYmx3MeCvY9uNqEKarRd5QG7Vi3cTYIh7pON7vx-dCAxDEmaU/s1600/Bed4.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought it was pretty gross that I could still see the slats after the crib was moved, <br />
and quickly washed the walls. Toddlers are so dirty ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
This morning, the first thing we did was go see the new bed, and Skyler was so happy. He excitedly crawled up onto his bed and touched all the vehicles, exclaiming each new find with a big "Oh!!" His current faves are the tractors and cement mixers. It was the sweetest thing to see! We are still waiting on the side rail after a very delayed cancelled order (which almost made me want to wait the week until we can get it from the new store) and I am planning on decorating the high headboard, but for now, I am just happy to have my very excited toddler in his new big boy space. The toy bins that were at the foot of his crib are now to the side of the headboard, and the <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/02/toy-car-storage-and-play.html">toy car storage</a> I made still fit perfectly under his new bed! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3XcLeefwbwdZ4dNc8JR7uSMRSsUKeFsRXO2IRqC9wu0Wpp9g_UrqlrfkWxmdw5Xtp1WZBnic4llLEkhkjUdM3FXp2AnnElFIAy6T5sEw42CuGTr1QBTifflFUDFEKq48g1_qR7GWQqM/s1600/Bed5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3XcLeefwbwdZ4dNc8JR7uSMRSsUKeFsRXO2IRqC9wu0Wpp9g_UrqlrfkWxmdw5Xtp1WZBnic4llLEkhkjUdM3FXp2AnnElFIAy6T5sEw42CuGTr1QBTifflFUDFEKq48g1_qR7GWQqM/s1600/Bed5.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.</i></span></div>
<br />
Next up will be moving the crib to the other wall in our room, and starting to decorate the small space that will be shared with baby E in just a few months! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And in other exciting news, I think Skyler is asleep! Woo!! Now hopefully we will be able to get through midday nap tomorrow!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-87106371931576853782014-08-01T15:00:00.001-05:002014-11-15T14:54:27.964-06:00Splash Pads and my Quiet Observer<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We loved playing <a href="http://www.stlouispark.org/neighborhood-parks/oak-hill-splash-pad.html">at this splash pad</a> with friends last year, and finally made it back with one of Skyler's little buddies this morning. Last summer Skyler wasn't walking yet, and spent his time at the small bubbling water features, splashing around with a bucket he filled up. Not interested in playing at the bigger fountains, but watching everything going on around him. Skyler would sit and fill, dump, fill and splash in his bucket the entire time we spent at the splash pad, and he would be completely content just hanging out the hour plus that we would stay!<i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDD37-upqT1fsCQSZMmTbS0rEVza_wkZ1wUNXYSBz2nOovNjSpzEoFBUwOV1Mpo8M9F2VThwLzalJlGUjZbQ_88S9eIsN8jXyblPLx1rI0Jl-aneEBZkV1f05xzCupTMbQWds03pUYd0/s1600/8-16-13+(23).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDD37-upqT1fsCQSZMmTbS0rEVza_wkZ1wUNXYSBz2nOovNjSpzEoFBUwOV1Mpo8M9F2VThwLzalJlGUjZbQ_88S9eIsN8jXyblPLx1rI0Jl-aneEBZkV1f05xzCupTMbQWds03pUYd0/s1600/8-16-13+(23).jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7M8qS8glkmiyw3HqHH7O1pQ-rgIQ-a4U8N5fRX0aUhjQXmxBsWRpDrBgu8PfrBBqKoHWAFkI6EwtcaTpomExSCQ4i89nRdCeW_QovIMjssKcYFybZZmW2zon-wtkPOnw4vp1Swxp2F8/s1600/8-16-13+(58).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7M8qS8glkmiyw3HqHH7O1pQ-rgIQ-a4U8N5fRX0aUhjQXmxBsWRpDrBgu8PfrBBqKoHWAFkI6EwtcaTpomExSCQ4i89nRdCeW_QovIMjssKcYFybZZmW2zon-wtkPOnw4vp1Swxp2F8/s1600/8-16-13+(58).jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Skyler and his bucket at our favorite splash pad, Summer 2013 </span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was excited to see how this summer would differ from one-year-old to two-year-old, especially now that he is on the move. I was fully prepared to chase my little dude around, but also brought his buckets and shovels along, knowing that he might not be ready to run through all the spraying water features, and remembering how he enjoyed having is last year. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wYzHLG4NLJfRLbJrVD9DKgaMfyknT8wBA7JesWXSiK6OQFWaUWpyFFLPOxWe8a0MakZCS_tUI_sY9aeT7JU5raC1Zh-lcLtvXyWaLLeDKtxcouhGOnmxQG2W6jKe1kMC_e1aXysaU1E/s1600/DSC_0355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wYzHLG4NLJfRLbJrVD9DKgaMfyknT8wBA7JesWXSiK6OQFWaUWpyFFLPOxWe8a0MakZCS_tUI_sY9aeT7JU5raC1Zh-lcLtvXyWaLLeDKtxcouhGOnmxQG2W6jKe1kMC_e1aXysaU1E/s1600/DSC_0355.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFSJe2MsrUHzLBz-dm1hkXcEJY_50FKLBFCkLMQ0HFak2Q7_vUxeHXohEKTCDeXBoZ-H9heX60gGSm9DiSk8arHUE3yf5LLXREWyGQWyW6LYpESLJmt9n6LTIZgeW7rB9grasOfK679Q/s1600/DSC_0358+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFSJe2MsrUHzLBz-dm1hkXcEJY_50FKLBFCkLMQ0HFak2Q7_vUxeHXohEKTCDeXBoZ-H9heX60gGSm9DiSk8arHUE3yf5LLXREWyGQWyW6LYpESLJmt9n6LTIZgeW7rB9grasOfK679Q/s1600/DSC_0358+(2).jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler started following his buddy, happily carrying his blue bucket, and stopped on the side when his friend started playing in the water. It took my quiet observer several minutes before he was ready to play in the water. He left the bigger fountains, and walked to the small bubbling spouts that he enjoyed last summer. I was somewhat surprised how little he wanted to touch the water. He would stand away from the spray and try to fill his shovel to dump into the bucket. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixu8pXAKfkXr-FCek0fqeoTdq3UPgxzLW0AFndqf34sYLch-QvCbEM_7X8nw4SP1mp2S6b6Pc6OQXQxptBI_kzqJFdoj2CsGW_oz8dNBpeg5w0jA34Sr6lrleVBiq7YNQ6-JWT0xv3eHQ/s1600/DSC_0376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixu8pXAKfkXr-FCek0fqeoTdq3UPgxzLW0AFndqf34sYLch-QvCbEM_7X8nw4SP1mp2S6b6Pc6OQXQxptBI_kzqJFdoj2CsGW_oz8dNBpeg5w0jA34Sr6lrleVBiq7YNQ6-JWT0xv3eHQ/s1600/DSC_0376.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtf-xWQpD0AfMWaMCKKRKguKR5xgdkh8zCYbBKtLOd_OsTZlaD8mheMCUM3-wBHU4iQuz6pnZowGTh9gnqYf6S1nyarlbflz9gi-X4xoHVQUf4gKmRtMKkze_25jOokWaXMfS6jnty6Q/s1600/DSC_0381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtf-xWQpD0AfMWaMCKKRKguKR5xgdkh8zCYbBKtLOd_OsTZlaD8mheMCUM3-wBHU4iQuz6pnZowGTh9gnqYf6S1nyarlbflz9gi-X4xoHVQUf4gKmRtMKkze_25jOokWaXMfS6jnty6Q/s1600/DSC_0381.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sweet boy was happiest standing with the mamas in the shade. He just stood with us for a long time, and when asked if he wanted to go play in the water he quietly said "no." His buddy was so sweet, filling his bucket up and then dumping it into Skyler's bucket. Skyler loved it and splashed with the water, and then his little friend would bring more for him. It was adorable. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9j4JKDE3REJ04Fsi0EyAWXixSVZMrflyaD4n_MiBqWM9sCzWN8GFaBx-QPB_SU690VqEpm6AYkWZN1UDPwSFbbZEj93LWWzMuWffiMu24Qto_dpMXT7GSuUWpeuPfyii9_4Ty9M014w/s1600/DSC_0412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9j4JKDE3REJ04Fsi0EyAWXixSVZMrflyaD4n_MiBqWM9sCzWN8GFaBx-QPB_SU690VqEpm6AYkWZN1UDPwSFbbZEj93LWWzMuWffiMu24Qto_dpMXT7GSuUWpeuPfyii9_4Ty9M014w/s1600/DSC_0412.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndZxIOIamhxgMFLnUGJdJuCWUHJAot74iwfI1cwzC4Fk49qEU99ZAzxVizPfvzAr4pjbSwwR_GEzQ25NB_SQCoaUzx-ma0sYpdzuTSb6Jq0LmFrz39bQC2ktwpowjrTJlt7Ea-JrfqLI/s1600/DSC_0413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndZxIOIamhxgMFLnUGJdJuCWUHJAot74iwfI1cwzC4Fk49qEU99ZAzxVizPfvzAr4pjbSwwR_GEzQ25NB_SQCoaUzx-ma0sYpdzuTSb6Jq0LmFrz39bQC2ktwpowjrTJlt7Ea-JrfqLI/s1600/DSC_0413.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Eventually, he went back out to the small fountains, and actually got pretty wet in the end. These two are so sweet and absolutely love playing together. It was perfect in this very exciting and closed off park how close they would play next to each other, so I got to talk to my beautiful mama friend and stare at her sweet babe the entire time. Score!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9wUaiZnczfWsfL7QHw-HbnTNCy-0SwkEszcPB7Da57MjgI2_zaTB1G-An-M9_2U7k78eplpCLtbxORQOOCWnIh9VBjp3f8WQG4eHLkQjaS6dZWdrrMMtkYzC_dCoVOp7LnDz88zauI4/s1600/DSC_0449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9wUaiZnczfWsfL7QHw-HbnTNCy-0SwkEszcPB7Da57MjgI2_zaTB1G-An-M9_2U7k78eplpCLtbxORQOOCWnIh9VBjp3f8WQG4eHLkQjaS6dZWdrrMMtkYzC_dCoVOp7LnDz88zauI4/s1600/DSC_0449.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ur4QEAu12qRsmrgrXWX5Z3Ntzp5GM5N7Pbb9SBRtn6MP5h6I09EqkJ2Xkme7Mk1vVKgrYM9Ww1kGqEIu1iTwL5hKT_rx7feJ-OpAUTKod_xuKbws_IWgiuhlK7lyRNnWSYHf3B0jSdw/s1600/DSC_0451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ur4QEAu12qRsmrgrXWX5Z3Ntzp5GM5N7Pbb9SBRtn6MP5h6I09EqkJ2Xkme7Mk1vVKgrYM9Ww1kGqEIu1iTwL5hKT_rx7feJ-OpAUTKod_xuKbws_IWgiuhlK7lyRNnWSYHf3B0jSdw/s1600/DSC_0451.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I would ask Skyler if he was having fun playing in the water, he would enthusiastically say "Yep!" Even when he is just standing to the side and watching kids play, watching the water shoot up around him, and just observing everything in general, he has such a good time. This mellow little observer of mine is such a joy. That serious concentration face of Skyler's stuck around most of the time, but when he would get wet I always got a big smile! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVD22MLTpYnZLyCpdUf3do49LQNzIyykBYfrBZPkBun4ndRFspDBLGSLMCX89Zfsgh35lHIS6jEKdheWMLkaUwlbQD38Hvj2DIlWPcurAeOYQe_CMN2_qyGjHbUtntVRJRx59XemzX4o/s1600/DSC_0471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVD22MLTpYnZLyCpdUf3do49LQNzIyykBYfrBZPkBun4ndRFspDBLGSLMCX89Zfsgh35lHIS6jEKdheWMLkaUwlbQD38Hvj2DIlWPcurAeOYQe_CMN2_qyGjHbUtntVRJRx59XemzX4o/s1600/DSC_0471.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-b_oOV8CgZiRo_ADf02U8dRC-1bNkFu-h7wc1QR6IivGOnNnBkkP4G5-t8HqO1aOGm0JXSQY8lEOJ3HzuJAtK6TDytd4WmukmGPh22EaEp7v4MHrkK9_cIvaspoXUp6iVTvzQVwOPIqI/s1600/DSC_0476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-b_oOV8CgZiRo_ADf02U8dRC-1bNkFu-h7wc1QR6IivGOnNnBkkP4G5-t8HqO1aOGm0JXSQY8lEOJ3HzuJAtK6TDytd4WmukmGPh22EaEp7v4MHrkK9_cIvaspoXUp6iVTvzQVwOPIqI/s1600/DSC_0476.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the end, his play wasn't much different than last summer, but I think it was great that he was able to walk around to where he wanted to be, even if that meant he was standing on the side and not actually getting wet. It is interesting having a sensitive observer and realizing that he may not want to just jump in and play in every situation. I like being able to take these moments to really understand what Skyler is comfortable doing and watch him have fun in his own way. </div>
<br />
We are excited to go back as much as possible before the amazing Minnesota summer ends!
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-75291104320129892152014-07-24T21:55:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:54:40.805-06:00Two Year Photos and a Special Addition<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="371">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:8.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:107%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="371">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:8.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:107%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's been pretty quiet around here lately on Minne-Mama. While
the wonderful warm summer weather and all the fun activities away from home
that go along with it have been a lot of the reason, there have been some other
exciting things keeping us busy!<br />
<br />
Our Skyler turned two in June, so last week we went to one of our favorite
places, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, to get some two year photos taken.
As you will see from some of my favorites pictures, we had a special guest
along for the photo shoot as well!<i> </i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ebEUV2AA8Au8J-VVbTjSiz96us_sHt_dMculf0OPa6a1nhNPmn2f-w1R2aLFnApvLYm_l0gEiMTRDFYYGpDEVhRaVHddmVmzm3UjMIpjL8wxj1zFn7gNARjCVhzKo8Qpe3nnht8JeSs/s1600/14GRAD008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ebEUV2AA8Au8J-VVbTjSiz96us_sHt_dMculf0OPa6a1nhNPmn2f-w1R2aLFnApvLYm_l0gEiMTRDFYYGpDEVhRaVHddmVmzm3UjMIpjL8wxj1zFn7gNARjCVhzKo8Qpe3nnht8JeSs/s1600/14GRAD008.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAQ_W3xmyhXgFNyLOCNSDwEw2LgI1bdGkWyIg6mhryKg_76sHGMhNtADONQE6AMTlbYk_dwVeSSJ1ssjbmjFfulMEdT_WeEk2mZ9tvJFFZSnx7OfMszQFBbGKE5cnteIX_RzdiRkFljo/s1600/14GRAD015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAQ_W3xmyhXgFNyLOCNSDwEw2LgI1bdGkWyIg6mhryKg_76sHGMhNtADONQE6AMTlbYk_dwVeSSJ1ssjbmjFfulMEdT_WeEk2mZ9tvJFFZSnx7OfMszQFBbGKE5cnteIX_RzdiRkFljo/s1600/14GRAD015.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMGLpa3LzvP8DGRNsXfs_BXn69T2Mnbqzq6XIB9zJmkB0OMO6DpHDENzYcG5c1odIBoe2h4zxPZKpOhJnBEYP0L-F08dxEpAK3dM2ytXj75oTpjB3lm_aIsPTOi5mSuKBb-GBxAthUhg/s1600/14GRAD016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMGLpa3LzvP8DGRNsXfs_BXn69T2Mnbqzq6XIB9zJmkB0OMO6DpHDENzYcG5c1odIBoe2h4zxPZKpOhJnBEYP0L-F08dxEpAK3dM2ytXj75oTpjB3lm_aIsPTOi5mSuKBb-GBxAthUhg/s1600/14GRAD016.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfGv-b8QJSto0evmNy1e6yPXuJJQixF6lfg_PpvPDlSE2QyIbPaD2XS3V-4Q_oPIR6EKChV_4ATUDdbja0_RHSdl6YytfTR0YCM05HzStsi8Pj6uMVvCyAv6QyBQrORMMr7RyxMHksoQ/s1600/14GRAD027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfGv-b8QJSto0evmNy1e6yPXuJJQixF6lfg_PpvPDlSE2QyIbPaD2XS3V-4Q_oPIR6EKChV_4ATUDdbja0_RHSdl6YytfTR0YCM05HzStsi8Pj6uMVvCyAv6QyBQrORMMr7RyxMHksoQ/s1600/14GRAD027.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglkal1AF4V17wN91y_BQGWSEt65VGqzzCE1-a892imtBGA00wxprTOM-R2cVqg3H1EIjBs4KxD_fA3HSNmNLvwk73R0lThPc_bAa9TQU_grv-Xe2xCZzDaeaoTV5eERLXXErfmnfNG1-I/s1600/14GRAD057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglkal1AF4V17wN91y_BQGWSEt65VGqzzCE1-a892imtBGA00wxprTOM-R2cVqg3H1EIjBs4KxD_fA3HSNmNLvwk73R0lThPc_bAa9TQU_grv-Xe2xCZzDaeaoTV5eERLXXErfmnfNG1-I/s1600/14GRAD057.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhariLb18rvrekso1rxo9_lF78BZTWHRP4N15mebbdL7_9-P9nAvorHIsk0PWDivlvKxu-PY8hFr1BE_cqMbwCu_fY1tJiEgg5Y0hdGUaNibTde5qYhJUNKcKWNDpFKab1WJtqU3qgIJJg/s1600/14GRAD059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhariLb18rvrekso1rxo9_lF78BZTWHRP4N15mebbdL7_9-P9nAvorHIsk0PWDivlvKxu-PY8hFr1BE_cqMbwCu_fY1tJiEgg5Y0hdGUaNibTde5qYhJUNKcKWNDpFKab1WJtqU3qgIJJg/s1600/14GRAD059.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwoUr1B_nqlj8yNnirfxQ7kDyV-i8hoV0Smdq7vY1b12SbFsFO3upPZV8B4oHvKx__cAEzBSx4WrIKOJG78AWLMzkpOSEA4FoUjQPokzO7q9NRSw7VFe2KZ5VCBgx114PiNUN8ZKG_Rw/s1600/14GRAD066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwoUr1B_nqlj8yNnirfxQ7kDyV-i8hoV0Smdq7vY1b12SbFsFO3upPZV8B4oHvKx__cAEzBSx4WrIKOJG78AWLMzkpOSEA4FoUjQPokzO7q9NRSw7VFe2KZ5VCBgx114PiNUN8ZKG_Rw/s1600/14GRAD066.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4gdsLOB1jNdIw5TUys1odjrSry25cbrthcVtid_m6n6fM4kNdrWyVRMtxta9JGxQzoRdG7TtYloLRmRBDLuIHqUo15HJIcMJg-RzU5H98CNgC3pAvgsVKATLQ3fd752ieQmiLLq93SE/s1600/14GRAD068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4gdsLOB1jNdIw5TUys1odjrSry25cbrthcVtid_m6n6fM4kNdrWyVRMtxta9JGxQzoRdG7TtYloLRmRBDLuIHqUo15HJIcMJg-RzU5H98CNgC3pAvgsVKATLQ3fd752ieQmiLLq93SE/s1600/14GRAD068.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9vEPq2s6lMr7xWcZW7r0PPJQHsQ2tQlkkltUSm9Yr83NbGcy-ItrnMW6reh6CdmU4Dhe3vWE6gyqOR_14X5w6414YfYgDxCgY2hIa3LkPyAHb2jzD-BWG9okNHmkZgVVyKx1aTMAvBNc/s1600/14GRAD072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9vEPq2s6lMr7xWcZW7r0PPJQHsQ2tQlkkltUSm9Yr83NbGcy-ItrnMW6reh6CdmU4Dhe3vWE6gyqOR_14X5w6414YfYgDxCgY2hIa3LkPyAHb2jzD-BWG9okNHmkZgVVyKx1aTMAvBNc/s1600/14GRAD072.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_ba2l2o1YNiW9ZQ4SKLqUIKoomkhdBR-OYaLCIkVNdlBZ9FALFK5hK0tbKsMqJbRQkQp8CU6mxlvpcTj1JRTZ2kebdaPQVqrFjhWBBj1EDVZ4kcONgj61cJboiW0jdbYPNlmJ0FXNfs/s1600/14GRAD078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_ba2l2o1YNiW9ZQ4SKLqUIKoomkhdBR-OYaLCIkVNdlBZ9FALFK5hK0tbKsMqJbRQkQp8CU6mxlvpcTj1JRTZ2kebdaPQVqrFjhWBBj1EDVZ4kcONgj61cJboiW0jdbYPNlmJ0FXNfs/s1600/14GRAD078.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1d9PxSDKKdn-5Qxm2Dnaz9FaUSoSTG3suv9N-CXu303CNX87uOqCzlFfdYnEzYsjB2T6wgkmZo1SxsWo0CXqVbxySzMJD6fPpu4zC3OiqK-Q8deKPWIoW9dAH4tEAHwcXDKt4mkcpZ4/s1600/14GRAD099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1d9PxSDKKdn-5Qxm2Dnaz9FaUSoSTG3suv9N-CXu303CNX87uOqCzlFfdYnEzYsjB2T6wgkmZo1SxsWo0CXqVbxySzMJD6fPpu4zC3OiqK-Q8deKPWIoW9dAH4tEAHwcXDKt4mkcpZ4/s1600/14GRAD099.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhynOzikNN9MZCiMsw3aOtn_6SX4hntxuIW3m5d7ohDrNHeuGV1lFRDpOuTW0HabaJHPM6y9ChxqAVTzFsXJHWswxYZVwxV_S7ktQvuxy7tUhzUWBMvPoEWDZjZHb9GNhCM_Tz7L1rvn3c/s1600/14GRAD103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhynOzikNN9MZCiMsw3aOtn_6SX4hntxuIW3m5d7ohDrNHeuGV1lFRDpOuTW0HabaJHPM6y9ChxqAVTzFsXJHWswxYZVwxV_S7ktQvuxy7tUhzUWBMvPoEWDZjZHb9GNhCM_Tz7L1rvn3c/s1600/14GRAD103.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2dpf-Cgzk_XqIq6KgMIiEC0fV6-bEuTRi4Wj9YzRK9jFf8XHngRjNTazv5QzcavHMWpcEbvcdhka3jncyGMJ3pgW5TsKeZaNyi-k8RFxON0Likmt96HaKJx8LhzUidwe5Uh5PaJB7oI/s1600/14GRAD112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2dpf-Cgzk_XqIq6KgMIiEC0fV6-bEuTRi4Wj9YzRK9jFf8XHngRjNTazv5QzcavHMWpcEbvcdhka3jncyGMJ3pgW5TsKeZaNyi-k8RFxON0Likmt96HaKJx8LhzUidwe5Uh5PaJB7oI/s1600/14GRAD112.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbTSvXQP8v3qMWuCm_64BAz4o_sJe0g2m4RTf0L4K1fpfDPUAUbfm3vUk-oA0kWoNwjKYhgo_kgx1VZ1UyP90z0jMkoDnIm6EzvJ-X-cFsnl3x11hk0PMx7kfgBiWPaBx76Owhxcl2CY/s1600/14GRAD110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbTSvXQP8v3qMWuCm_64BAz4o_sJe0g2m4RTf0L4K1fpfDPUAUbfm3vUk-oA0kWoNwjKYhgo_kgx1VZ1UyP90z0jMkoDnIm6EzvJ-X-cFsnl3x11hk0PMx7kfgBiWPaBx76Owhxcl2CY/s1600/14GRAD110.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh hey, baby! </div>
<i></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mwKF2Vm5yFaWqzxAmf6vrqhtO_-rn0rHaQEX2cxCmiY3IeW6nuwhsNzM7VUJ9FAULcaG4JtEPp9iBA93sfvy72hB5XfrzHxzFHrN5aei23_dwB8KTwVgh07-ogcov7hy_AcIf6PZbI4/s1600/14GRAD087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mwKF2Vm5yFaWqzxAmf6vrqhtO_-rn0rHaQEX2cxCmiY3IeW6nuwhsNzM7VUJ9FAULcaG4JtEPp9iBA93sfvy72hB5XfrzHxzFHrN5aei23_dwB8KTwVgh07-ogcov7hy_AcIf6PZbI4/s1600/14GRAD087.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLZriN60mrBWhW8u-7epa9QfBHT-p1qTd3xB5LtgrhJDDyr2LpL2R_OWf200g6CdfnHW6s2vvEQxw49aQs86aj7_8bZWJsdNgHGnLo1NSB2u0jKXNUyOLk_d29Z83jHTWzTr8Nlfw5guQ/s1600/14GRAD085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLZriN60mrBWhW8u-7epa9QfBHT-p1qTd3xB5LtgrhJDDyr2LpL2R_OWf200g6CdfnHW6s2vvEQxw49aQs86aj7_8bZWJsdNgHGnLo1NSB2u0jKXNUyOLk_d29Z83jHTWzTr8Nlfw5guQ/s1600/14GRAD085.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9U5hJi243gX7LWFU3tNdOXQceSTuIO0d60xZPxw7OSpN6vHsv5ss5zDmrJF1AfMOI0hVlnzY1hqyc_dfFPI0Q-2CXXqKM4GWgj_DYUxNZ1faKqcVmovJFxBtK4RUOeaH3xmXgAWgjdJ8/s1600/14GRAD095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9U5hJi243gX7LWFU3tNdOXQceSTuIO0d60xZPxw7OSpN6vHsv5ss5zDmrJF1AfMOI0hVlnzY1hqyc_dfFPI0Q-2CXXqKM4GWgj_DYUxNZ1faKqcVmovJFxBtK4RUOeaH3xmXgAWgjdJ8/s1600/14GRAD095.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTs9uDEcQItgc3zqrBCO4sRGRsAzxy9chy41dwp64xkze2QsrTMYIDD_YP0mFhupKU2G_x_DrgoXj1hLonQSKv5XPAmZFUcRDErz5GBrXMkQk6ZKQXCs5erT0w0yO5VHq1SmTxeeQcZvk/s1600/14GRAD120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTs9uDEcQItgc3zqrBCO4sRGRsAzxy9chy41dwp64xkze2QsrTMYIDD_YP0mFhupKU2G_x_DrgoXj1hLonQSKv5XPAmZFUcRDErz5GBrXMkQk6ZKQXCs5erT0w0yO5VHq1SmTxeeQcZvk/s1600/14GRAD120.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94MeFFFe0npsQT0tg-Y-uxmk0RqvmBLfJfGVXXfQVC2cNmFFYsh8ndjQLPmq4mIR2vHwKeHhSTSYjoyRGQt7Ji5C9-jH4_2tyT-h516uo4hYEONcIJnBGDGMYl17LbXglfadVBCYouRQ/s1600/14GRAD122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94MeFFFe0npsQT0tg-Y-uxmk0RqvmBLfJfGVXXfQVC2cNmFFYsh8ndjQLPmq4mIR2vHwKeHhSTSYjoyRGQt7Ji5C9-jH4_2tyT-h516uo4hYEONcIJnBGDGMYl17LbXglfadVBCYouRQ/s1600/14GRAD122.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-aUQ6-UNXDxVBzmNSYAx69CLlZVCo-v36m9zTiXQvN2yuMHuk_ug6_JX6t0oYCDAtVH6iyJtsDCoZpYGZ9HIUMSZXLrtfPtcOftUvw7YJqvgTuqcR1pFjk7E2LRm_L2dokx8ZzUhy2Jo/s1600/14GRAD141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-aUQ6-UNXDxVBzmNSYAx69CLlZVCo-v36m9zTiXQvN2yuMHuk_ug6_JX6t0oYCDAtVH6iyJtsDCoZpYGZ9HIUMSZXLrtfPtcOftUvw7YJqvgTuqcR1pFjk7E2LRm_L2dokx8ZzUhy2Jo/s1600/14GRAD141.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1srqkKuV6B5mBEkPIxNdboPg3ubtO7m4oxsq4s5dxZNs9zIV08S71r_pwzwiV-NzUTcKYv2yz9iJ7WQ066PaiHY_jfSEkRx2JUCHX09KEXZWAlqg8wmi9AkGVgdFYZTJ6C32g-D0YXOQ/s1600/14GRAD144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1srqkKuV6B5mBEkPIxNdboPg3ubtO7m4oxsq4s5dxZNs9zIV08S71r_pwzwiV-NzUTcKYv2yz9iJ7WQ066PaiHY_jfSEkRx2JUCHX09KEXZWAlqg8wmi9AkGVgdFYZTJ6C32g-D0YXOQ/s1600/14GRAD144.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVIqOuw4NT-SQ85vhOzG8MtwwfJXBcg1B_1fJMwzqkLjXTM8E_qc7JPCzBJGLwMhf5p0MEHo7Y5gW0ltHeLd3Us9IdQ3a2tqzBcHL5gfMHGhiKJ1F2cfzCqGPH3vEuPycVDVf4EhUCbk/s1600/14GRAD146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVIqOuw4NT-SQ85vhOzG8MtwwfJXBcg1B_1fJMwzqkLjXTM8E_qc7JPCzBJGLwMhf5p0MEHo7Y5gW0ltHeLd3Us9IdQ3a2tqzBcHL5gfMHGhiKJ1F2cfzCqGPH3vEuPycVDVf4EhUCbk/s1600/14GRAD146.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3PE32bYb_cp-MAOTiiYjko60OJ7e5BPfbX6LesMVjdzm8buIhVCBi1UuK9XDmYDH-Lu9j3NrJQEdSgQday6si-iDX4BAJIKuRgzF_pqmpUcQ5lyD71z8ju1kAYtIp43kxsr3BnKtnwo/s1600/14GRAD147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3PE32bYb_cp-MAOTiiYjko60OJ7e5BPfbX6LesMVjdzm8buIhVCBi1UuK9XDmYDH-Lu9j3NrJQEdSgQday6si-iDX4BAJIKuRgzF_pqmpUcQ5lyD71z8ju1kAYtIp43kxsr3BnKtnwo/s1600/14GRAD147.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0aAtcQTBPZOJWnd-I7hU21nzmgX_-BStBj9LDGPVVkLvqyHYNCRWDGgvuNBLKoAHIeuuyArcY5s-N3oYdlLjWTcuGnRN_Zmcjgs4_ThGzOc2F8hdaRYri34xEs5gTYrkpbdhLZ-bLu7c/s1600/14GRAD152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0aAtcQTBPZOJWnd-I7hU21nzmgX_-BStBj9LDGPVVkLvqyHYNCRWDGgvuNBLKoAHIeuuyArcY5s-N3oYdlLjWTcuGnRN_Zmcjgs4_ThGzOc2F8hdaRYri34xEs5gTYrkpbdhLZ-bLu7c/s1600/14GRAD152.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABMrEss7niOuWC5etU4HIc66Tq08J-zaQcp5O3p5fJuGsZ2vrlc4Oqjmvd8GsETH184lwc8B6G21lPVW09b2sh5fwNc-5AgFJwilyJ1Z8D-urvxYwdAINsskYRk8MoEZIMGIfTdzDNnA/s1600/BOY+Canvas%2521%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABMrEss7niOuWC5etU4HIc66Tq08J-zaQcp5O3p5fJuGsZ2vrlc4Oqjmvd8GsETH184lwc8B6G21lPVW09b2sh5fwNc-5AgFJwilyJ1Z8D-urvxYwdAINsskYRk8MoEZIMGIfTdzDNnA/s1600/BOY+Canvas%2521%2521.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are so excited that we will be adding another little boy to our family this holiday season! Skyler is thrilled about being a big brother (That sweet shirt he is wearing is from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/4BlessingsCreations">the Etsy shop 4BlessingsCreations</a>. We also used it back in April to tell our parents about the new baby - how fast this pregnancy has gone!) In the beginning, I was completely exhausted and constantly nauseous. Luckily, I have been feeling better in my second trimester, but my motivation to create has been pretty much wiped. I am hoping to have more activities on the blog again soon (and more activities aimed towards babies in the near future I am sure), but right now I am loving spending this summer with my THREE favorite guys! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
All photos (<span style="font-size: small;">with the exception of the final canvas shot</span>) were taken by <a href="http://www.mjfotography.com/">MJ Fotography, Inc.</a> <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-11407104808398691172014-07-14T16:41:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:54:51.033-06:00Something I Never Want to Forget<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<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/AVvXsEjr-oiRO8DBMzq3JCxVJDgT9w6Y9Ooqyzup77tQJdlfZGUdE_bRQ6RetgkDOBf2Y-sh8ZGRsr4ZCP0u3Vu4YskrVFqGMdU2cFNkuhDfoc6El19uSFQ3lb3vQI3eZlYRz-MWQKUH9GYHSEU/s1600/7-12-12+(1)+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-oiRO8DBMzq3JCxVJDgT9w6Y9Ooqyzup77tQJdlfZGUdE_bRQ6RetgkDOBf2Y-sh8ZGRsr4ZCP0u3Vu4YskrVFqGMdU2cFNkuhDfoc6El19uSFQ3lb3vQI3eZlYRz-MWQKUH9GYHSEU/s1600/7-12-12+(1)+2.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snuggles in bed with Skyler at one month old. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Skyler never slept in our bed. He has always been a great sleeper, and actually did better at putting himself to sleep than being rocked to sleep, even as an infant. In the morning, he will often come into our bed to snuggle for a bit, but it usually consists of a bin of books, a quiet toy, or some precious iPad time. Last night Skyler woke up at midnight crying and screaming, so strange for my 7pm-7am sleeper. I went into his room and when I asked him what was wrong, he quickly stood and said "I snuggle! I snuggle!" After trying to calm him and having him lie back down, he cried even harder, so I pulled him out of bed without really thinking about it, and brought him across the hall and we snuggled in the middle of the night. <br />
<br />
Of course, right away he asked for books and the iPad and I told him it was still time to sleep. For the most heavenly 5-10 minutes, he curled into my body with his head facing mine on the pillow. He said "I hold Mama's neck" and wrapped his whole arm around me. Then I watched as he fell asleep for a few minutes. It was so wonderful. Skyler is an excellent cuddler - always giving me random hugs and kisses, but it is not often that I get to really snuggle with him other than right before I put him to sleep or when he has just woken up. Most nights I will go into his room before I go to bed to cover him up with his blanket (since he has always moved to a different spot in his crib) and watch him sleep for a few seconds, but I can't remember the last time I cuddled with him while he slept. Although I really appreciate what a wonderful sleeper he is, that time was so precious. He woke up after a little while and smiled at me, then he turned over onto his stomach and started running his legs along Joe's back, saying "That's so silly!" When he started rubbing Joe's head with his hand and saying that he wanted to get up and play, I decided our night of snuggling had to be over. I laid Skyler back in bed and he was asleep within minutes, and out for the rest of the night. <br />
<br />
It was such a strange half hour, but I hope that I will be able to remember the feeling of his arm around my neck and his yummy Skyler smell, his slow sleepy breath on my face, and his warm little body all curled up in mine forever. It was such a perfect moment with my baby boy.
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-2484365251717989382014-07-03T15:47:00.001-05:002014-11-15T14:54:59.607-06:00Story Book Summer Guest Post<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by!</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPxjwNfjI5gdUlYCAMWBxNM7zH2pvdwFLXFBxaQ2UZUNC8dQFkfDn41Esl64m5MdXF4utxgzCNfMEaKMDZ8KIhSY35s1eIKCc5freC4Io9IZ155khkaRednY9DEhZTXJK9EiAuj9cMp0/s1600/Books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvPxjwNfjI5gdUlYCAMWBxNM7zH2pvdwFLXFBxaQ2UZUNC8dQFkfDn41Esl64m5MdXF4utxgzCNfMEaKMDZ8KIhSY35s1eIKCc5freC4Io9IZ155khkaRednY9DEhZTXJK9EiAuj9cMp0/s1600/Books.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.</i></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am excited to be taking part in the Story Book summer over at Rainy Day Mum. We have been big fans of Barefoot Books since discovering their fun YouTube channel filled with song versions of their great books. For Skyler's birthday last month I bought him some of our favorites.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBXY3GPwFA-tRg0u9nUori2PFg1uryiz3PD7AyvuLwxDV_Ypg_82uXbFlyGmzg0gPvi-HStyItlGDfcEWQf6dGBLzVphRvywXktZIHMypXylImXteuN461E4hRbTAXwgK46AsgzN39Y48/s1600/Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBXY3GPwFA-tRg0u9nUori2PFg1uryiz3PD7AyvuLwxDV_Ypg_82uXbFlyGmzg0gPvi-HStyItlGDfcEWQf6dGBLzVphRvywXktZIHMypXylImXteuN461E4hRbTAXwgK46AsgzN39Y48/s1600/Pin.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This version of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1846868629/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1846868629&linkCode=as2&tag=httpminnemama-20&linkId=NML6FFK6JV5FJYC7">A Hole in the Bottom of the Sea</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httpminnemama-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1846868629" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
was a fun way to tie in an activity with his new water table that was another birthday gift. <i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdD3suU0-jrj1IZ748RREcV7PMDmIODk159JKz80g4TjBAC_uSqXh5f0sv4Hi1a8rEfXwQ5175BeM-YEd2c93GmvDwAGM04F9T0yjg8piKt6IDTkHjeff7WPEuat0yC9S7zcYcNtnyGU/s1600/Sea15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdD3suU0-jrj1IZ748RREcV7PMDmIODk159JKz80g4TjBAC_uSqXh5f0sv4Hi1a8rEfXwQ5175BeM-YEd2c93GmvDwAGM04F9T0yjg8piKt6IDTkHjeff7WPEuat0yC9S7zcYcNtnyGU/s1600/Sea15.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://rainydaymum.co.uk/a-hole-in-the-bottom-of-the-sea">Check out the full post and tutorial at Rainy Day Mum here. </a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUYPb1ndVjBE1BWNaI49nWrZxMKhYtDBFFmzk81-kxH2o8OPXOWvt1-H9pNRFRbAEAfAUBxjlrOwgEDZqPujUT4hnnQg1NIx8fcBNaGnyIsNrZGehcAtdkjQ0fY55G4zY2Cd5bRsKLHo/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUYPb1ndVjBE1BWNaI49nWrZxMKhYtDBFFmzk81-kxH2o8OPXOWvt1-H9pNRFRbAEAfAUBxjlrOwgEDZqPujUT4hnnQg1NIx8fcBNaGnyIsNrZGehcAtdkjQ0fY55G4zY2Cd5bRsKLHo/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-5542817134038791042014-06-17T20:56:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:55:08.509-06:00Summer in Minnesota: Concert Series<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by!</i><br />
<br />
Hands down, the thing I missed most this winter was outdoor concerts. Skyler and I loved going to concerts last summer and I was excited to find many kid-friendly concert series in our area. These are the three that we have enjoyed going to, though I am sure there are many more. Not that it is any surprise, but I took a lot of pictures of Skyler last summer. Here are some pictures from the concerts we went to in these series, mostly from last summer, and a few from today :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Centennial Lakes kiddie concerts</b> every Tuesday and Thursday at noon. The concerts take place at a cute little amphitheater and there is some space right near the performers to put up blankets in the shade. I don't think Skyler and I missed a week last summer, sometimes we went both days. The genres of music are varied and last summer we even saw an animal show that was the most packed I have ever seen it. It can get really hot with little one's if you can't get into the shade, but my absolute favorite thing about this location is getting there a little early and taking advantage of the beautiful lake for a walk! The full summer concert schedule can be found <a href="http://edinamn.gov/index.php?section=centennial-lakes-park-calendar">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAbhS3P4CyJChTDHmH5oNAojGeoUI9jILFcpxEGg_xH9o1LCe6ElbmdMHrGooULDF6pDgEyUWYpB4vvhcsq5jQy6-Mcpxs9a9xQmce0ozP_t826IzaxdUlimyGK98BZBjf83Rouoxdhs/s1600/Centennial5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirAbhS3P4CyJChTDHmH5oNAojGeoUI9jILFcpxEGg_xH9o1LCe6ElbmdMHrGooULDF6pDgEyUWYpB4vvhcsq5jQy6-Mcpxs9a9xQmce0ozP_t826IzaxdUlimyGK98BZBjf83Rouoxdhs/s1600/Centennial5.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3cZ4alzoMxEyk_60qh5ydXHh96XAh6Xhb2hTFhabZ089EtNVXzXJNGSnz6jdadPwfvRPEGexBskBKpjHtilGw8LCwD3TNpoeIkE5jb4NZGp8s8dIEX-LfJx7PE61e9Q_fNHx0P5sooY/s1600/Centennial1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3cZ4alzoMxEyk_60qh5ydXHh96XAh6Xhb2hTFhabZ089EtNVXzXJNGSnz6jdadPwfvRPEGexBskBKpjHtilGw8LCwD3TNpoeIkE5jb4NZGp8s8dIEX-LfJx7PE61e9Q_fNHx0P5sooY/s1600/Centennial1.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDUXxm2IDIUxsJ0az3TmoabCXuOCULNyluE2Er4KT6VR0iR8KFyqChKhis9b14_bATx1YhOiEOKP-zqxANvi4FkQtauRrqk0pHenAlA6zPzPyDryvdA4HtrRCnZUasjVlecYEKspV66A/s1600/Centennial3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDUXxm2IDIUxsJ0az3TmoabCXuOCULNyluE2Er4KT6VR0iR8KFyqChKhis9b14_bATx1YhOiEOKP-zqxANvi4FkQtauRrqk0pHenAlA6zPzPyDryvdA4HtrRCnZUasjVlecYEKspV66A/s1600/Centennial3.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGuT3hvU1Zi0LIiLNmmeKxdYeRzTMoG6d3NuIG-DVrqt-qVlnvZ8QNz3ZMnQcXSGNqBtOHp7hsB-2-ZoNabt6D5NuyILEo44c0s5c6wlOqiGpCq-562jBOXeicuBlsXv2-6KD_QnY3uIA/s1600/Centennial2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGuT3hvU1Zi0LIiLNmmeKxdYeRzTMoG6d3NuIG-DVrqt-qVlnvZ8QNz3ZMnQcXSGNqBtOHp7hsB-2-ZoNabt6D5NuyILEo44c0s5c6wlOqiGpCq-562jBOXeicuBlsXv2-6KD_QnY3uIA/s1600/Centennial2.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPFfBa5nZoi00bfiF8ZbNhNnMT5EsIhoHCMvW_dYHqVH8nHsrHIkl-zwjqElDH8dkOp79UBvE9YNiomqy4biqehlo9EJCzXuOqtOh63_3Nm0bVWbxk2mSLOnABi7h7qKD0TGmEbfZ_uA/s1600/Centennial4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPFfBa5nZoi00bfiF8ZbNhNnMT5EsIhoHCMvW_dYHqVH8nHsrHIkl-zwjqElDH8dkOp79UBvE9YNiomqy4biqehlo9EJCzXuOqtOh63_3Nm0bVWbxk2mSLOnABi7h7qKD0TGmEbfZ_uA/s1600/Centennial4.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The concert we went to today was the first Centennial Lakes concert of the summer for us. The performer was <a href="http://redyarnproductions.com/">Red Yarn</a> and it was a lot of fun. The nice thing about this time is that we bring a picnic lunch and Skyler either falls asleep for nap in the car
or I put him down right when we get home. It was funny because at one
point Skyler said "I see the Okee Dokee Brothers" and I told him that we weren't seeing them today, but after the show Red Yarn said that one of the Okee Dokee Brothers was in attendance. I noticed Skyler staring behind us a couple of times, and he must have recognized him :) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrct0RLMI2hsj1jH3ZxzlwXjaXLsKw75iKTot3dZZ1CcoKZx2NMYXe4oyPgNG30cZFtNqysTKc4kMDucQ-qbUumVKbtqTdKe71i5Fqh9z-sEgy1qLHskHgwDsOd3vpU0r2oJFP7bTkaQ/s1600/Centennial6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrct0RLMI2hsj1jH3ZxzlwXjaXLsKw75iKTot3dZZ1CcoKZx2NMYXe4oyPgNG30cZFtNqysTKc4kMDucQ-qbUumVKbtqTdKe71i5Fqh9z-sEgy1qLHskHgwDsOd3vpU0r2oJFP7bTkaQ/s1600/Centennial6.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceKLir2h0xXAPnD3A3ZGmO9rkalEh8-ImBuiAHZlGtLHRUUyVli1QVy7_K7MsKIDq3y1u5Pp0Qy9rrSonl-Zt1ABjvqnJ978s5atk2i-w4q12CAr45aAziL_YuBaw6EJbm_X15NRKQoQ/s1600/Centennial7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceKLir2h0xXAPnD3A3ZGmO9rkalEh8-ImBuiAHZlGtLHRUUyVli1QVy7_K7MsKIDq3y1u5Pp0Qy9rrSonl-Zt1ABjvqnJ978s5atk2i-w4q12CAr45aAziL_YuBaw6EJbm_X15NRKQoQ/s1600/Centennial7.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsTPPJGEPnFch4YWPhIrkPU6eQsgnJbnKZp8IueQ_yP47G6FtEBsKaquv9QBGHNEX7xCMpQDR0zfIHX_lum5wyqqylP0jLNPp4KMiOvA37vw0Wrjo6bT1FoW4Ip0qn-OVGMcutp_5aAg/s1600/Centennial8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsTPPJGEPnFch4YWPhIrkPU6eQsgnJbnKZp8IueQ_yP47G6FtEBsKaquv9QBGHNEX7xCMpQDR0zfIHX_lum5wyqqylP0jLNPp4KMiOvA37vw0Wrjo6bT1FoW4Ip0qn-OVGMcutp_5aAg/s1600/Centennial8.jpg" height="200" width="132" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> My brave boy even went right up to the front when one of the puppets was brought out! </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Staring Lake Kidstock concerts</b> Tuesday's at 10:30am. We went to many of the concerts in this series last year, usually with our ECFE class (and unless we were spending our Tuesday at Centennial Lakes). The amphitheater is right next to Staring Lake Park, so it is fun to head to the park and play after the concert is over. There is very little shade at this location and it can get extremely hot, but it is fun to meet up with friends and have a snack while listening to some live music. The event calendar that includes all of the Kidstock concert information can be found on the City of Eden Prairie website <a href="http://www.cityedenprairie.org/index.aspx?page=17">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWqQUd1Zu4fpJuXB0jvRS31XwCYxj4URav0jxJO2SjVbBAm7x4E3D6zzCHVWURWQSc6Cs2li3RXmutRwtB6bfxD4lnZw5pSUOGHTlHBYE92-J0e4gXY3we_Osg3t7W6xlO-YZjvjKYAo/s1600/Kidstock1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWqQUd1Zu4fpJuXB0jvRS31XwCYxj4URav0jxJO2SjVbBAm7x4E3D6zzCHVWURWQSc6Cs2li3RXmutRwtB6bfxD4lnZw5pSUOGHTlHBYE92-J0e4gXY3we_Osg3t7W6xlO-YZjvjKYAo/s1600/Kidstock1.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqy97T8o7WVQqu8WyVlUpdUS4mATdfwVWyotU-Nt2L2QbqSSO0dbDeaggkLsasiVB1iNJD0ksv_l5EcdWjucwfUvRzNN1NsMuHHsyE51AI8bYl9Yc0rVGp3EF9XwPnGNuzXQA_c3D7W0/s1600/Kidstock2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqy97T8o7WVQqu8WyVlUpdUS4mATdfwVWyotU-Nt2L2QbqSSO0dbDeaggkLsasiVB1iNJD0ksv_l5EcdWjucwfUvRzNN1NsMuHHsyE51AI8bYl9Yc0rVGp3EF9XwPnGNuzXQA_c3D7W0/s1600/Kidstock2.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-kwRYEm-1aob9hAbTizy4VvOzfz1pOrBO9mQa-xV4ejLzmznynchtB4Q8Vi5Jj0LoGEcd9XtyI-fkchlUYMWkXHBS7gHepFUilLAeuPljO2YyWu7qdbVrasfwrMUvxg2eyf_O13k98g/s1600/Kidstock3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-kwRYEm-1aob9hAbTizy4VvOzfz1pOrBO9mQa-xV4ejLzmznynchtB4Q8Vi5Jj0LoGEcd9XtyI-fkchlUYMWkXHBS7gHepFUilLAeuPljO2YyWu7qdbVrasfwrMUvxg2eyf_O13k98g/s1600/Kidstock3.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPHYL_wnEkFfT_QnNt8ktlhjH5PxFDTrTfnL4GXUC1ttER9jZ5im6hAkoCxz4vnb7hPMbMaLG3wd8O6wR6x6FgEGkvWWF2ZW9wGx1mZv3kBzmiUWPOvkJA4PCU_W5cgelegGO2_75Kkw/s1600/Kidstock4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPHYL_wnEkFfT_QnNt8ktlhjH5PxFDTrTfnL4GXUC1ttER9jZ5im6hAkoCxz4vnb7hPMbMaLG3wd8O6wR6x6FgEGkvWWF2ZW9wGx1mZv3kBzmiUWPOvkJA4PCU_W5cgelegGO2_75Kkw/s1600/Kidstock4.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5R2YIYvhQzAOHGaM2F8JYKRaMFRZd2da1ler5x_QRwQNQTUXZwr7aaG36T90Kl93aCEfZHt8rP55UVkawiEIvho1RPK1K68mwyYauiGSKpGByOJ7Vi5q4MAp2imuMZzTed4HjABhX3iU/s1600/Kidstock5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5R2YIYvhQzAOHGaM2F8JYKRaMFRZd2da1ler5x_QRwQNQTUXZwr7aaG36T90Kl93aCEfZHt8rP55UVkawiEIvho1RPK1K68mwyYauiGSKpGByOJ7Vi5q4MAp2imuMZzTed4HjABhX3iU/s1600/Kidstock5.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Klein Bank concert series</b> on Thursday's at 7:00pm. These concerts are not part of a kid series (though we did see the Okee Dokee Brothers last summer), but all of the concerts were a lot of fun and Skyler enjoyed all of the genres of music. I enjoy this later concert, even though it is right at Skyler's bed time. The weather was always beautiful and my husband came along to all of the shows last year. We put Skyler in his jammies and we were ready to go home right after and read some books before bed. I always made sure to bring some books, toys, and a snack just in case the music style didn't really appeal to Skyler. The list of performers can be found on the City of Chanhassen website <a href="http://www.ci.chanhassen.mn.us/index.aspx?NID=276">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVhgeJjJCjoa1shhkfdHIuNFxv5jP2H8O0QGfrt0D_1Rpg9oGh13rGdgRugh9qRLSyG7fmhUILjiU39jcHTFGM3julQr4IP2X8yRHIPW9WlAuyABhVV1YB8RNp1gHkaonchXC4y_J6gCo/s1600/KleinBank1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVhgeJjJCjoa1shhkfdHIuNFxv5jP2H8O0QGfrt0D_1Rpg9oGh13rGdgRugh9qRLSyG7fmhUILjiU39jcHTFGM3julQr4IP2X8yRHIPW9WlAuyABhVV1YB8RNp1gHkaonchXC4y_J6gCo/s1600/KleinBank1.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkfCtUPaH2sHKvnsd2wwhaU6IOvDH_zOShlMJIoNemtuUlqXtpdo-VI4jsxgxn1mFaEH_x4yVMJdqGTnFj7qm4QXJAYKzFCO1RaXb6tiLNzB9Er-IIzGGakZ31AQOc1G2_pZN1KS6N6Y/s1600/KleinBank2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkfCtUPaH2sHKvnsd2wwhaU6IOvDH_zOShlMJIoNemtuUlqXtpdo-VI4jsxgxn1mFaEH_x4yVMJdqGTnFj7qm4QXJAYKzFCO1RaXb6tiLNzB9Er-IIzGGakZ31AQOc1G2_pZN1KS6N6Y/s1600/KleinBank2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8C0ETlQ3aZgtLm8gbLtMdN0EfmLG77ADUBRZwd7BQ0l0ej9jzXcEmr_wPF65wPlYOYORSIsYyUxUeP2Su6aChCqwu2CZLyKRzxYWUMzS6xY8wH7vpHWxtDZgARRG9PA6fDiN0RjdLEc/s1600/KleinBank3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8C0ETlQ3aZgtLm8gbLtMdN0EfmLG77ADUBRZwd7BQ0l0ej9jzXcEmr_wPF65wPlYOYORSIsYyUxUeP2Su6aChCqwu2CZLyKRzxYWUMzS6xY8wH7vpHWxtDZgARRG9PA6fDiN0RjdLEc/s1600/KleinBank3.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYFnnlz34zFWaBFKjsRRE0L94UpjiO3DSK-MXXwfWl-4DzpII_DaImCsw_wWbVkyoRvmgs9w0asqIFWB5ghpM-NU9wGQsMXZ5JMOxEDDPU6iWjp99tM9P_QVToMMXmrNnWIM31qqq2wU/s1600/KleinBank4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYFnnlz34zFWaBFKjsRRE0L94UpjiO3DSK-MXXwfWl-4DzpII_DaImCsw_wWbVkyoRvmgs9w0asqIFWB5ghpM-NU9wGQsMXZ5JMOxEDDPU6iWjp99tM9P_QVToMMXmrNnWIM31qqq2wU/s1600/KleinBank4.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have gone to a few concerts at <b>Lake Harriet</b>, but haven't taken enough advantage. There are always fun things going on at our favorite place!<br />
<br />
There are also a lot of concerts at the <b>Landscape Arboretum</b>, though we have not gone to any.<br />
<br />
If you live in the area and have or know any children that would enjoy some live music in the beautiful summery Minnesota weather, I highly encourage you to try out these three concert series. I am so looking forward to a full and fun summer of music with my boy! <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-66445305955037523922014-06-15T22:22:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:55:20.152-06:00Father's Day<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by!</i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My Skyler is a very lucky boy. We are both so lucky. My husband is such a phenomenal daddy. <i></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Father's Day is hard because Joe is always gone. With his annual training he always misses Skyler's birthday, Father's Day, and our anniversary. We make it up when he gets home, but we miss him especially during these weeks. When he gets home, Skyler will open some extra birthday gifts, Joe will open his Father's Day presents, and we will go out to dinner to celebrate our anniversary, but I miss being able to tell him in person today how much I appreciate him and everything he does for our family. I make up for it the rest of the year though!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the past week and a half, I have been nearly brought to tears when every night before bed, Skyler has chosen to read <i>The Very Best Daddy of All</i> by Marion Dane Bauer as one of his goodnight stories. I bought it for him on a whim several months ago, the day before Joe was leaving for a month training. It is a sweet story, and I think it helps Skyler when he is missing Joe. It must if he chooses it whenever his daddy is gone. Between the story and the countdown we make, we are able to cope, especially when we have to go days or weeks without speaking to Joe. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One thing I do when we read the story is on the last two pages where the illustrations change from pairs of animal babies and daddies to people, I reach over and grab this picture of Joe and Skyler off his shelf. He holds it and looks at his daddy and when I am done reading we always talk about the picture. It makes it even more special. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></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/AVvXsEhP5o_1D8O7WebMykR2MOS3jqQu6mNMyB4dp9in8B1UWqefVbUqF_YR4QnNm9QkgFt-_hWzqeEX74qdcW4vfo2BVmCwPoBXQZz4r119md5jN0mj0B1xMSpVbDRTM7YfIsI_9Fz1_deIuco/s1600/4-27-13+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5o_1D8O7WebMykR2MOS3jqQu6mNMyB4dp9in8B1UWqefVbUqF_YR4QnNm9QkgFt-_hWzqeEX74qdcW4vfo2BVmCwPoBXQZz4r119md5jN0mj0B1xMSpVbDRTM7YfIsI_9Fz1_deIuco/s1600/4-27-13+(1).jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skyler and Daddy in Laguna Beach, April 2013</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Joe, today and every day, thank you for being the incredible dad and husband you are. I am so blessed to call you and Skyler my family. We love you more than we can say. <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-3447151413822313712014-06-11T07:00:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:55:28.483-06:00Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
My Skyler turns two today.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is incredible how fast the time has gone, but we have made so many memories in this time that when I look back, I can barely remember my life before motherhood. This sweet boy has been the biggest joy in our lives. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wzzmNHCwMNEP0HS_nekJnj-SLvod4bGIlmd_MytXcbHxTp3Xa4nR1ilX07OhelzBINEu8cobhyphenhyphenILuqr4UL3TvEToJF4R-H2tvLu9dVrNK4UgEkoSkfX7FqYhv4oTLf4jrN6T7IjxsT0/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wzzmNHCwMNEP0HS_nekJnj-SLvod4bGIlmd_MytXcbHxTp3Xa4nR1ilX07OhelzBINEu8cobhyphenhyphenILuqr4UL3TvEToJF4R-H2tvLu9dVrNK4UgEkoSkfX7FqYhv4oTLf4jrN6T7IjxsT0/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am so lucky that I get to be the mama of this silly, smiley, and intelligent toddler. I am constantly laughing and smiling when I am around him, to the point where it hurts to smile anymore. <br />
<br />
I see so much of my husband in Skyler, but as he has gotten older, I have been happy to see that he is a lot like me as well. One of the most wonderful things of the past two years has been seeing my husband as a dad. I have always known that Joe would be an amazing dad, and he has exceeded my expectations. He is such a sweet daddy, Skyler and I are so lucky to have him.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSN4GyzY1jenTdjw18t0YNV5Ib9PeV26YxX8u2A2vWMFGvTzUJI_ObIGF033PerlCuHXAHTrhs_muT57fxi7IXQiI1T7hoGi3_6iFiQOtQCk6cp4krhdd1b9Tjag-70GvTxhyphenhyphen0ZO2FOqA/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSN4GyzY1jenTdjw18t0YNV5Ib9PeV26YxX8u2A2vWMFGvTzUJI_ObIGF033PerlCuHXAHTrhs_muT57fxi7IXQiI1T7hoGi3_6iFiQOtQCk6cp4krhdd1b9Tjag-70GvTxhyphenhyphen0ZO2FOqA/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love that my boy is both curious and independent, but still so loving and attached. He is always asking for hugs and kisses, and even though he plays very well on his own, it makes me happy when he asks me to play with him. Even if I only left his side for a moment. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KRuGd0Zdv2D6VJg3RdWE7AU-o7mkoHhzeCnlgTS4cNm-G70I2YRFyCMnmtyz5_wtFCBqTN5CQKPvWAhcEkCARcKJ44bMTZrERRHsuLH7ZLrnyanPcpUHn4hPUeY0uUPDRB7H3zUfwRY/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KRuGd0Zdv2D6VJg3RdWE7AU-o7mkoHhzeCnlgTS4cNm-G70I2YRFyCMnmtyz5_wtFCBqTN5CQKPvWAhcEkCARcKJ44bMTZrERRHsuLH7ZLrnyanPcpUHn4hPUeY0uUPDRB7H3zUfwRY/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage3.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My baby boy that loves books and vehicles more than anything. He gets so excited about music, sports, or crafty things of any kind. He is the happiest when we are outside, running around and playing. He thrives on the activities we do and the groups we are a part of. I swear, he remembers every one he has ever met and is always asking to see the people he loves.<br />
<br />
Part of me wants the time to slow down. It is crazy to see my baby turning into
such a big boy, but every day with him is more entertaining and exciting
than the last. The past two years have been so incredible, and I cannot
wait to see what the next year brings with this person that
changed our family forever. There are so many things happening in our family this coming year, both exciting and not so exciting, and I am just happy that I will have Skyler right by my side through it all. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvQMs4T65rfgSxXbZAFlOKVuREcyI6ocL462ZKDhyyGiL_if_9QvcWCsJU5kyrAb-lq9uMQpIAuB87jSJs4Tuu88ecbadpr6afaRfBf9pISCc4bgfNC9ea9uynYP7yJjy7jspraRpQVE/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvQMs4T65rfgSxXbZAFlOKVuREcyI6ocL462ZKDhyyGiL_if_9QvcWCsJU5kyrAb-lq9uMQpIAuB87jSJs4Tuu88ecbadpr6afaRfBf9pISCc4bgfNC9ea9uynYP7yJjy7jspraRpQVE/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage4.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I especially love this day because I can look at the clock and remember what was happening two years ago, the day I became a mom. I am so looking forward to celebrating my little love today, and eating cupcakes with him at 4:36pm, even though it is right before dinner time, because it is our birthday tradition. Happy birthday, my Skyler. <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-82530444823458728172014-06-06T20:49:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:55:36.260-06:00Birthdays, Parties, and Babies<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you checked out our <a href="http://instagram.com/minnemamablog">Instagram</a> at all this week, many of the pictures will be familiar. We had another full week outside, and were lucky to see many friends. Most of Skyler's little buddies have recently or soon will be turning two, and we have been happy to celebrate with them lately! We attended a birthday party last weekend and have another one tomorrow. Here are some of the other things we have been up to this week.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On Wednesday we went to see one of Skyler's friends, and we got to meet her sweet new baby sister. Skyler happily played with his friend, and mama got three-week-old baby snuggles. After a lot of water play, we walked across the street to play at the park and poor Skyler cried when we left. That boy loves playing at the park. Any park :)</div>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVID4tNpwX6WG8rURKOYbegd_0SLGPOaOhpUC3eO1sXgPhzU42xecbF58djvQoYAvju6Vtc0GXEobissEroUuEdK90NfuL6-PfG7B9WlAwuxkyIGXfOdYcNTgGRkFVzNstHAq3ybluQg/s1600/Wednesday1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVID4tNpwX6WG8rURKOYbegd_0SLGPOaOhpUC3eO1sXgPhzU42xecbF58djvQoYAvju6Vtc0GXEobissEroUuEdK90NfuL6-PfG7B9WlAwuxkyIGXfOdYcNTgGRkFVzNstHAq3ybluQg/s1600/Wednesday1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbR9_lLPU8L9dlwHMH_RTJubu0lbJoFpUVTkR1Amt9RXqllBnFTajiaxlrqCVEO1utNuM8do550YIGWtQp0XjoRXX4fXQDa2U9HD41tiZY6RUgFN3rlYg8ugbDJ4R4rgbiMWzkA1gryfI/s1600/Wednesday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbR9_lLPU8L9dlwHMH_RTJubu0lbJoFpUVTkR1Amt9RXqllBnFTajiaxlrqCVEO1utNuM8do550YIGWtQp0XjoRXX4fXQDa2U9HD41tiZY6RUgFN3rlYg8ugbDJ4R4rgbiMWzkA1gryfI/s1600/Wednesday2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We had such a fun morning getting birthday cupcakes and going to the park on Thursday. These sweet boys (plus an adorable six-month-old sister that Skyler just loves!) got to choose their own cupcake at Sweet Retreat Cupcake Boutique and they picked the same one, cookies and cream! Skyler inhaled his - they were delicious! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyArtFRY0ag0AiKy8qy8IrV5CVGNNxnBXvdvPeZfCupQplFwOpYHJDt6KyGHD2thyphenhyphenSx4NAjY-CsJCIyckNdIRCTALyHmSc_oSJL9PF4hUpw3BQcv2omLJS7MHP3Mg6Bf4gejKRiD35RA/s1600/Thursday1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyArtFRY0ag0AiKy8qy8IrV5CVGNNxnBXvdvPeZfCupQplFwOpYHJDt6KyGHD2thyphenhyphenSx4NAjY-CsJCIyckNdIRCTALyHmSc_oSJL9PF4hUpw3BQcv2omLJS7MHP3Mg6Bf4gejKRiD35RA/s1600/Thursday1.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Fx9c7rle3-ihkI07kx7cuZ7h2m-kx6sXjWmcOJvvD90l5OJejW0H_2WBSYJf74SWXL8UpduIiCntH4Nw0wBUGCj-rmeFkDmF9ixPKMkcyXtV18oiSF8lzXIp3t4g-D6_udihgvT3j7E/s1600/Thursday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Fx9c7rle3-ihkI07kx7cuZ7h2m-kx6sXjWmcOJvvD90l5OJejW0H_2WBSYJf74SWXL8UpduIiCntH4Nw0wBUGCj-rmeFkDmF9ixPKMkcyXtV18oiSF8lzXIp3t4g-D6_udihgvT3j7E/s1600/Thursday2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgng6JVKAZxwMLvWNGAiUL82c_3KpeswV8_6m9s66lDDQkVdXoJ4Q4-FveuciGfFkpK6GaZbNifSa312zbd7IQPHKLi963_uGz9Pl6rtNg2CoeDmC1SFRZJKLVmjuk2Kky3QKFJRAbXk1M/s1600/Thursday3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgng6JVKAZxwMLvWNGAiUL82c_3KpeswV8_6m9s66lDDQkVdXoJ4Q4-FveuciGfFkpK6GaZbNifSa312zbd7IQPHKLi963_uGz9Pl6rtNg2CoeDmC1SFRZJKLVmjuk2Kky3QKFJRAbXk1M/s1600/Thursday3.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today this little friend of Skyler's turned two, so along with another friend of hers, we spent the morning at the Minnesota Zoo. It is one of our favorite places, and extra fun when we have a friend to go with! These two are so cute because they will always walk next to each other no matter where they go, and there are lots of hugs exchanged whenever they are together. Last time we went to the zoo with them, they held hands the entire time. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzrHBIu3u47lM5F5fmR8HYlSN_M1l15CyIpozZ4fHMI8Y0ruEafBL0s8V6x9uavl3U_-VXBjwYoLj7jPQncqdNTYwq_QdXpRH1krKguZ16Q7-pfhxSZ8h-jWrarfyTneuoBTz1-wVW3w/s1600/Friday1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzrHBIu3u47lM5F5fmR8HYlSN_M1l15CyIpozZ4fHMI8Y0ruEafBL0s8V6x9uavl3U_-VXBjwYoLj7jPQncqdNTYwq_QdXpRH1krKguZ16Q7-pfhxSZ8h-jWrarfyTneuoBTz1-wVW3w/s1600/Friday1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PKoGswzG1IynJ3K0ia9x1IoQbVM3lS2905rkd4ZbKM0IQUegsQogcO_uEtduKGipODxZ1TFOv4AYPGLbijS5m0H54mxrf90gwvzFtVdBcvwcDQvq-Iozc4GRrMgfUhHnBK1yT9oDwLs/s1600/Friday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PKoGswzG1IynJ3K0ia9x1IoQbVM3lS2905rkd4ZbKM0IQUegsQogcO_uEtduKGipODxZ1TFOv4AYPGLbijS5m0H54mxrf90gwvzFtVdBcvwcDQvq-Iozc4GRrMgfUhHnBK1yT9oDwLs/s1600/Friday2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My mom got Skyler this easel for his birthday, so my husband and I spent Wednesday night putting it together. Skyler saw it when he woke up yesterday and has been going to it whenever we play in the living room. I used his first piece of artwork to make a daddy countdown while my husband is away at a training. Past daddy countdowns can be seen <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/02/still-counting-days.html">here</a> and <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/04/peek-boo-eggs-sensory-bin.html">here</a>. </div>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBIMXL75MeefAzVd6lJtFitSjzEM6ra2CSw68WS-0MoMUrJw-EE5I4zo2T15nh2tgknCCp8mKrjSlSWUoWnRV1CWBDjik1sEc0Bx40_GjQ7NclBeRLcZmltrcVVqpAxvZ4qUVMStIucc/s1600/Countdown1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBIMXL75MeefAzVd6lJtFitSjzEM6ra2CSw68WS-0MoMUrJw-EE5I4zo2T15nh2tgknCCp8mKrjSlSWUoWnRV1CWBDjik1sEc0Bx40_GjQ7NclBeRLcZmltrcVVqpAxvZ4qUVMStIucc/s1600/Countdown1.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6WRt9nWAMiPuzPKQjfh-7h7gRXu7ukLRPl4NFmbEfL9jyMZ_BVLSexBgm0_cju8523zEaUInb17i26WpjHzZUzbes7MBYLrvQKQFwu0fCZTggYJQjnamlK4PMUNEOuNLaLV-hxLjgBQ/s1600/Countdown2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6WRt9nWAMiPuzPKQjfh-7h7gRXu7ukLRPl4NFmbEfL9jyMZ_BVLSexBgm0_cju8523zEaUInb17i26WpjHzZUzbes7MBYLrvQKQFwu0fCZTggYJQjnamlK4PMUNEOuNLaLV-hxLjgBQ/s1600/Countdown2.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope we had a wonderful week, and enjoy your weekend ahead! <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-441610084128612343.post-72767561675320678472014-05-30T00:16:00.000-05:002014-11-15T14:55:46.360-06:00Parks, Walks, and Outdoor Time!<span id="goog_16950059"></span><span id="goog_16950060"></span><i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/minnemamablog">Minne-Mama is on Facebook! 'Like' us to stay updated on our fun crafts and activities!</a></i><i> </i><br />
<i>Thank you for stopping by! </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wow - this week has gone by so quickly! With my husband working a later shift and some beautiful Minnesota weather (finally!) we have spent most of our time out and about. It has been so wonderful to take advantage of the warm and sunny days, we will leave in the morning, stop back home for nap, and then head back out when Skyler wakes up. It has, unfortunately, not left much time for crafting or activities at home, but with rain in the forecast next week, I am sure we will be doing more of that! Here are some pictures from a few of our favorite outdoorsy things this week. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Monday rained off and on, so we braved some sprinkles and checked out a new-to-us park that is near our house. We have gone to the little bucket swings on the other side of the beach, but this was our first time at the big playground, and we had it all to ourselves!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzAFeV6flQcWSexb0hSPhUZeRb2kPM_zKNrc4QeWhBLDupCpSlmFtqYKTm7Chy4tSmUtLAQFMX-YT9uPbmDmcbTuFn6pGRX5AkmVC8hsb8KUwnn5FL18hD7zJDH0aQ6xe6t0DLAPb9eI/s1600/Outdoor1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzAFeV6flQcWSexb0hSPhUZeRb2kPM_zKNrc4QeWhBLDupCpSlmFtqYKTm7Chy4tSmUtLAQFMX-YT9uPbmDmcbTuFn6pGRX5AkmVC8hsb8KUwnn5FL18hD7zJDH0aQ6xe6t0DLAPb9eI/s1600/Outdoor1.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK833ahgZXNmv7UJULb6x0pHJh1pZ7vFMcN4q7W0EUSEXTvFn0HY7HJPs_Mqg5lpDqUHG-PNrffUdynzf88N-d899a7jGcGekbGaH9qiW9hbtHemv3vPh9IWugeJkaWE70C1F0OgQaO6k/s1600/Outdoor2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK833ahgZXNmv7UJULb6x0pHJh1pZ7vFMcN4q7W0EUSEXTvFn0HY7HJPs_Mqg5lpDqUHG-PNrffUdynzf88N-d899a7jGcGekbGaH9qiW9hbtHemv3vPh9IWugeJkaWE70C1F0OgQaO6k/s1600/Outdoor2.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were given this small basketball hoop from a high school friend after I posted a video of Skyler enjoying a similar one at our ECFE class. He has been obsessed! He wants to "play basketball hoop" all the time. So fun!! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlO-zn39zUW8xVq2Hsiu_fZR1mo72jbD8XT7lD5LAXDrJ0TmBiBsZWiP96AYNyym_-zqLbuWk8fcZyLecqXFqm7yqrVy9K_6YtL4v8PsBdzwfEDORIMNUjGouobpbrdnzmSDa2_jaj34Q/s1600/Outdoor3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlO-zn39zUW8xVq2Hsiu_fZR1mo72jbD8XT7lD5LAXDrJ0TmBiBsZWiP96AYNyym_-zqLbuWk8fcZyLecqXFqm7yqrVy9K_6YtL4v8PsBdzwfEDORIMNUjGouobpbrdnzmSDa2_jaj34Q/s1600/Outdoor3.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74N_R1oLFfLQUpbtT-g-Ath8WWxPzMvFpCgryLJwYoApnal0YtrM1sMUVFSeOuhyphenhyphen_Z7pL7xi42n-HunYkXPFfcjeHXILeME20XFEmAAPrcTvu2dB1YCSnHXXGew5UbGKxd-R3JndifHc/s1600/Outdoor4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74N_R1oLFfLQUpbtT-g-Ath8WWxPzMvFpCgryLJwYoApnal0YtrM1sMUVFSeOuhyphenhyphen_Z7pL7xi42n-HunYkXPFfcjeHXILeME20XFEmAAPrcTvu2dB1YCSnHXXGew5UbGKxd-R3JndifHc/s1600/Outdoor4.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We spent a morning at Lake Harriet to walk and play at the park. I would go there every day for a walk and iced coffee if it wasn't such a drive from our house. Skyler especially loves the airplanes that are always flying over the lake. I have been worried that we wouldn't really get to go for long stroller walks now that Skyler is walking, but he is so happy watching for dogs and looking at the boats, ducks, or any sort of cool vehicle that goes by!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2SQ6x6jxEmxTaFcl7Q67_aEOjr_S8WqxX8C7hR4alkDk1eBScovnH19CBGzxUjHw_Ohw9j1OhV_-T054wZr6PP5wZHzNXlF92BtYfGYq0lGZKyD5L_BXhGIbYYonagLyT-SW7Mgx2V0U/s1600/Outdoor5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2SQ6x6jxEmxTaFcl7Q67_aEOjr_S8WqxX8C7hR4alkDk1eBScovnH19CBGzxUjHw_Ohw9j1OhV_-T054wZr6PP5wZHzNXlF92BtYfGYq0lGZKyD5L_BXhGIbYYonagLyT-SW7Mgx2V0U/s1600/Outdoor5.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yesterday we went to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum for a picnic lunch and to check out their butterfly exhibit. It was so much fun! Skyler was very careful around the butterflies and gentle when we had them on our fingers. He talked about it for the rest of the day. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last week, Skyler started smiling if I say "show me your teeth" which used to work on him months ago. I am pretty excited about it - look at that face!!</div>
<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/AVvXsEhxy3LoBb9Bi_SVUF5E9WYu8tBp6xq7aHIZ5WXdnqZANvW4GHBw-SQoG1m6GkCq-Tmq88IW1H-KGaGxYKiQB7ERXU7v69ivWdRbiF6OEemTeMV-vXUPw1PKFr_E3_fqzTpOihjzZiQzKLY/s1600/Outdoor6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxy3LoBb9Bi_SVUF5E9WYu8tBp6xq7aHIZ5WXdnqZANvW4GHBw-SQoG1m6GkCq-Tmq88IW1H-KGaGxYKiQB7ERXU7v69ivWdRbiF6OEemTeMV-vXUPw1PKFr_E3_fqzTpOihjzZiQzKLY/s1600/Outdoor6.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fedora family - Skyler insisted on wearing his after mama and daddy grabbed theirs :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPzysiCeP2DRFCpt1BiJjrkPfRUGSh6S6mw0YwMVmOqTCGFCb3rTO5xPUknEU79mW46pY2-lTmmLxlBVmW6Go6Oda9A_dsoO47S_xC21YCGygtU5jEwwOqwXaBvaQIqWVocehXahGrjY/s1600/Outdoor7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPzysiCeP2DRFCpt1BiJjrkPfRUGSh6S6mw0YwMVmOqTCGFCb3rTO5xPUknEU79mW46pY2-lTmmLxlBVmW6Go6Oda9A_dsoO47S_xC21YCGygtU5jEwwOqwXaBvaQIqWVocehXahGrjY/s1600/Outdoor7.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3FqagV_zrOsQCJiwZbl8OpgAtuzixAg_MUULUDopO-wGasS0wV4kSCzqAlY0p_DstTBR6G36NhJ0pWUMx1tVaO0Em30woLy9DzGu6M8ZhT_g_6WoGxEUxaogu7GPtTigrQ1VRXSZFrY/s1600/Outdoor8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3FqagV_zrOsQCJiwZbl8OpgAtuzixAg_MUULUDopO-wGasS0wV4kSCzqAlY0p_DstTBR6G36NhJ0pWUMx1tVaO0Em30woLy9DzGu6M8ZhT_g_6WoGxEUxaogu7GPtTigrQ1VRXSZFrY/s1600/Outdoor8.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFufpHcehLBURSmtU6CMWBmW7IwFOlfm9kWmKolg6u-tLnXsBCEsbXd9EUEq4Jiz2elnyGcSoEbvc-t3s2Dktle-QgD00cQhbbdGRBN-VFGn01f75qhk9LzVsSXXdAIeVsgW-X-WZc29k/s1600/Outdoor9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFufpHcehLBURSmtU6CMWBmW7IwFOlfm9kWmKolg6u-tLnXsBCEsbXd9EUEq4Jiz2elnyGcSoEbvc-t3s2Dktle-QgD00cQhbbdGRBN-VFGn01f75qhk9LzVsSXXdAIeVsgW-X-WZc29k/s1600/Outdoor9.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkC26qZ5EM7qPBrwnJpQ5yCsS7wK-eCFB9uZYYBIlW3IAe_coDLAOSUZYLrB9RJPJkZ-1XED0TXTK3cwT8PAT3N0TVC_xD1PSRCXRmqcpxzvLYbGyyo55wRirdqsBo9VmNDY9Qyaev9tY/s1600/Outdoor11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkC26qZ5EM7qPBrwnJpQ5yCsS7wK-eCFB9uZYYBIlW3IAe_coDLAOSUZYLrB9RJPJkZ-1XED0TXTK3cwT8PAT3N0TVC_xD1PSRCXRmqcpxzvLYbGyyo55wRirdqsBo9VmNDY9Qyaev9tY/s1600/Outdoor11.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These spring and summer months in Minnesota are completely worth putting up with winter! There are so many trails, parks, lakes, and activities to fill our time with. I am very much looking forward to more bike rides and splash pads in the near future! <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page -->
<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02063086099612613952noreply@blogger.com0