tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55719442774796731182024-03-05T14:29:08.150-08:00Amyzingly CreativeA blog about creative solutions to everyday problems, including budget ideas for weddings, teaching, organisation and home decorating.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-72746054847799448422015-08-26T00:41:00.001-07:002015-08-26T00:41:27.338-07:00Celebrate Learning - support my app idea!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFfNoVaWRO4mCgn42tu5AMxZ9fKLGYLA7MKGgK6x-A8ndfF0fXiI6pM9g9NVx6B3nCZ5z5mEitTkmcjZrbxaC6HWLz3bs6SrBEj9eFPbSj7ucHkZQR2sFETL3Z5SDvK5LDlA12n5rhQ2m/s1600/App+home+pages.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFfNoVaWRO4mCgn42tu5AMxZ9fKLGYLA7MKGgK6x-A8ndfF0fXiI6pM9g9NVx6B3nCZ5z5mEitTkmcjZrbxaC6HWLz3bs6SrBEj9eFPbSj7ucHkZQR2sFETL3Z5SDvK5LDlA12n5rhQ2m/s320/App+home+pages.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I'</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">ve designed an app for education! Useful for homeschooling, feedback for teachers/coaches/pastors, logging wider field experience hours, TAFE, holidays away from school, knowing what your child is learning at school (and how they feel about it), applying for a promotion and much more! Feel free to click and like or even share my idea as..."Each month, we [Samsung] are giving away a Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5” to the app idea with the most Likes based on our criteria of Social Change, Innovation, User Experience + Storytelling". So yeah, like away!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><a href="http://www.adappt.com.au/ideas/lets-recognise-and-celebrate-learning-in-all-forms-all-around-the-world/?fb_action_ids=10153108982297828&fb_action_types=og.likes" target="_blank">Check out my app idea!</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The past few weeks I have been working on an app idea for education, not just school students but learners of all ages! I hope to travel and share about my idea and how to use the concept to revolutionise how education is delivered and recognised. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One night, I got the God-inspired idea to Google "scholarships to change the world". I came across this competition and, through the application process, have refined my idea so much. I would love your support, so please check it out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.adappt.com.au/ideas/lets-recognise-and-celebrate-learning-in-all-forms-all-around-the-world/?fb_action_ids=10153108982297828&fb_action_types=og.likes">http://www.adappt.com.au/ideas/lets-recognise-and-celebrate-learning-in-all-forms-all-around-the-world/?fb_action_ids=10153108982297828&fb_action_types=og.likes</a></span></div>
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-32001226636547417272015-06-02T16:40:00.001-07:002015-06-02T16:59:20.135-07:00Control vs Obedience - being in and under authority<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-0ylHwIn8WGEkfqS1RcAo7ZoUfQq1-V0jeeXGhBwGxXQRIm0VhpUPdXu41DtCTrWlJ3d4eHUHWLewQL3AwbpqJEOdGWBsuLhAoNKvkTeVn__Ok0XW71b3OhTqEKZD637ooyqNtGQLfDO/s1600/obey+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-0ylHwIn8WGEkfqS1RcAo7ZoUfQq1-V0jeeXGhBwGxXQRIm0VhpUPdXu41DtCTrWlJ3d4eHUHWLewQL3AwbpqJEOdGWBsuLhAoNKvkTeVn__Ok0XW71b3OhTqEKZD637ooyqNtGQLfDO/s400/obey+poster.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you are in a position of authority, how do you use it?<br />
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The following scenarios are a little test to see how often you use different levels of control when dealing with people under your authority.<br />
<a name='more'></a>We will call this person under your authority Timmy. Timmy may be your 5 your old son, your little brother, an apprentice builder or one of your employees.<br />
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Think about the following situations.<br />
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<i style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Situation 1: </span></span></i><br />
Timmy has dropped a cup and broken glass is all over the floor. You have some mutual friends coming over soon and the glass needs to be cleaned up as quickly as possible.<br />
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<b>You are most likely to</b>:<br />
a) invite Timmy to help you as you start cleaning up yourself<br />
b) advise Timmy that it will be faster if you work together and suggest they really should help, but leave it up to them<br />
c) instruct Timmy in a matter of fact voice that the glass needs to be picked up and they have a responsibility to deal with it themselves<br />
d) command Timmy to pick the glass up themselves and use whatever means necessary to enforce your command<br />
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<i style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Situation 2: </span></span></i><br />
Timmy has stormed out of the building in blind anger and is heading for the road. If he takes two more steps he will be hit by a car.<br />
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<b>You are most likely to</b>:<br />
a) invite Timmy to join you for a cup of tea back inside<br />
b) advise Timmy that he should stop walking or he will be hit by a car<br />
c) instruct Timmy in a matter of fact voice that he will be hit by a car unless he stops<br />
d) command Timmy at the top of your lungs to stop and use whatever means necessary to enforce your command<br />
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You may respond to Situation 1 in any of the manners given above. However, the more you use stronger levels of control, the less impact they will have when they are really necessary. If Timmy only ever heard you invite and advise, he would be more likely to comprehend the urgency in your voice if your commanded him to stop.<br />
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<i style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Examples from real life: </span></span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Invite</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Uses words like "Can", "possibly" and "please". </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These are friendly, casual and give the person a chance to say no.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Can you play with me?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Can you please water the garden if you get the chance?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Advise</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Uses words like "should", "might" and "will". </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These are more respectful than friendly but still give the person a chance to say no.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"You should put sunscreen on or you will get sunburnt"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"You had better stop fighting or someone might get hurt"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Instruct</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Stated as a fact rather than a question. </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These are stated as an expectation but still give the person a chance to ask questions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"It's time for bed"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Put the milk in the fridge or it will go off"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Command</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Uses words like "always", "never" and "now". </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These are not just an expectation but a requirement and do not give the person a chance to say no. Often a severe consequence will follow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Always stop at a red light"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Put that knife down right now!"</span><br />
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This also applies when we read the Bible. Think about whether what you are reading is an invitation, advice, an instruction or a commandment. When we realise the difference it is amazing how much more urgent we realise these things are.<br />
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<i style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Examples from the Bible: </span></span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Invite</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Then God said, “Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food. (Genesis 1:29 NLT)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Advise</b>:</span><br />
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NLT)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Instruct</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 NLT)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Command</b>:</span><br />
This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. (John 15:12 NLT)<br />
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<i style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Challenge for the week: </span></span></i><br />
During the course of this week as you interact with people under your authority, check your language. Are you saying please? Are you saying could, should or must? What do you expect when you give instructions? What choices are you offering? What are the consequences of disobedience?<br />
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Also, how are you responding to people in authority over you? Are you considering invitations, listening to advice, following instructions and obeying commands? I'll try if you'll try with me!<br />
God bless x<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfm0Y6PHTwNFLDfgyd7mamgHAC8GaZGqDMbOIBHcpkPDCToVN9g3TR9rUZt1VtF02sHU1w1ll2DpBDibyts0im-JejAIrWwtVXpJWbZAmmJAQQfrcPpQYwUcxDvLPszg2OqjShDO4rR685/s1600/ways+to+obey+poster+with+logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfm0Y6PHTwNFLDfgyd7mamgHAC8GaZGqDMbOIBHcpkPDCToVN9g3TR9rUZt1VtF02sHU1w1ll2DpBDibyts0im-JejAIrWwtVXpJWbZAmmJAQQfrcPpQYwUcxDvLPszg2OqjShDO4rR685/s400/ways+to+obey+poster+with+logo.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-87948689080654892552015-03-16T15:31:00.003-07:002015-03-16T16:25:21.341-07:00The Neverending Meal Plan: food crisis (part 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrehgTbyBpsUgA1yqIIlFqeuYj99z3YyJsXGQqVspFqDZD2SZzFn1fSwYSbjo91Yqs2vNzkrdQGMrzSaTLW-yfRfJpg9jrUktp6DKbIU1PesPAgVwdxP-Jrg_VSMfnMzxQOIwjACpLCkAu/s1600/meal+plan+3blog+design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrehgTbyBpsUgA1yqIIlFqeuYj99z3YyJsXGQqVspFqDZD2SZzFn1fSwYSbjo91Yqs2vNzkrdQGMrzSaTLW-yfRfJpg9jrUktp6DKbIU1PesPAgVwdxP-Jrg_VSMfnMzxQOIwjACpLCkAu/s1600/meal+plan+3blog+design.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sure, we had enough food to eat. Sure, we were saving money and not wasting leftovers. Bu</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">t when we were finished a fortnight's meal plan and groceries several days before shopping day, was eating leftover rice and mashed potatoes really the best thing for our family? </span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Realising my mistake, I quickly apologised to my hubby and told him that shopping fortnightly was not as important as keeping fresh food in the fridge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As mentioned in my post on the <a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2015/03/the-neverending-meal-plan.html" target="_blank">neverending meal plan</a>, our recent trip to Japan really woke me up to our shopping habits. We live in a first world country where, if you so choose, you can have food practically thrown at you as you race through the drive-thru rushing off to continue your busy life. Our first drive-thru experience after getting back to Aus nearly gave me a heart attack it came out so fast! But after 10 minutes of driving, the food had gotten cold and was now a soggy mess, useless as leftovers. It made me appreciate once again how great it is to be able to buy fresh produce and safe-to-eat meat, the basic ingredients of countless incredible homemade meals. After a big shop at the markets I must say my chest puffed out a little comparing the contents now to the contents in our freezer at the time of the <a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/freedom-for-freezer.html" target="_blank">freedom for the freezer</a> post.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5_5iRQZzppwF23gFphzXb3-jJZYiHUUlxPO6XfxsWzhPd_NedbnsptvyPZ4AipVJ7NFrKrPliWXS4kBbKLVPpjCc6WSDChyphenhyphenQ2IoelVRArkp14xcc8n0uEVrKsvF-Gkaz6DtciC6CKQrU/s1600/DSC04122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5_5iRQZzppwF23gFphzXb3-jJZYiHUUlxPO6XfxsWzhPd_NedbnsptvyPZ4AipVJ7NFrKrPliWXS4kBbKLVPpjCc6WSDChyphenhyphenQ2IoelVRArkp14xcc8n0uEVrKsvF-Gkaz6DtciC6CKQrU/s1600/DSC04122.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Freezer early 2014 - contents include pizza, chopped onion, breads, meat and ravioli</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEUjn3lcKTc87Cp8TZcDwTeneG43KvXZ5KQUfRomR5OZwFLjpnCT-2gIjp3WB1UoUNzBbvZ1ZVBuq2571yHZvvrA0Z60hisJDBwIFTntlhlrBVQcV5-mbY4r2qpyLAhNbp-5sPQvbFjko/s1600/DSC06202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEUjn3lcKTc87Cp8TZcDwTeneG43KvXZ5KQUfRomR5OZwFLjpnCT-2gIjp3WB1UoUNzBbvZ1ZVBuq2571yHZvvrA0Z60hisJDBwIFTntlhlrBVQcV5-mbY4r2qpyLAhNbp-5sPQvbFjko/s1600/DSC06202.JPG" height="258" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Freezer early 2015 - contents include homemade stock, chopped onion, chopped carrots, breads, meat and dumplings</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Okay, so it's not that clean, but the decor containers are still helping heaps. We are also using some resealable bags. Some might say it's not as environmentally friendly as reusable containers, but we reuse them too. I still smell like onions after chopping a whole bagful yesterday. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The dumplings were a bit of a splurge as I visited my mum who just moved close to the Chinese food capital of the southside and DUMPLINGS ARE MY FAVOURITE!!! I have made them by hand before, but I'm still working on getting the pastry nice and thin.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm not gonna lie, there are also two slices of cake and some of my homework cupcakes hiding away too, but the cake was bought by Mr M's work for his birthday and the cupcakes are at least homemade.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieS-chW5y64eHNevm1voZA6g7tQ_5UXeHEAUsmJKcBsGLMwPY2MFsDYhFo6XljKRfmKCQaC9PhwHSM21giftJNwva1rJeA2O_fk4JHHy8DlCJmDvuTdBSzO44YPybpr3jRIZmfTnyEfM0L/s1600/DSC06200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieS-chW5y64eHNevm1voZA6g7tQ_5UXeHEAUsmJKcBsGLMwPY2MFsDYhFo6XljKRfmKCQaC9PhwHSM21giftJNwva1rJeA2O_fk4JHHy8DlCJmDvuTdBSzO44YPybpr3jRIZmfTnyEfM0L/s1600/DSC06200.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Fridge early 2015 - contents include fruit, veggies, eggs, meats, bread, <span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">pancake batter and soft drink</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ahhhhhhhh. It feels so good to have fresh food in the fridge again. I even found a great fruit and veggie shop with 2 bags of onions or carrots for $3 (which is why I chopped a whole bag and now smell like onion).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It was hard to resist the temptation to reorganise the fridge, so I'll admit now I did hide my mum's mooncakes that accidentally came home with me after our Asian food shop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This is yours truly officially declaring that I have yet to conquer less frequent shopping. Fresh food is a higher priority! And, the meal plan stays, so the budget is not even in danger of me spontaneously buying unwanted snack food!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love hearing stories so post a comment below if you have some tips on shopping less or more or preparing meals ahead of time. If you have trouble commenting, let me know by sending me an email at amyzinglycreative@gmail.com</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Well,</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm glad to finally say it: the food crisis is over! Now it's time to eat!</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-32435942788055159292015-03-16T15:30:00.003-07:002015-03-16T16:25:32.635-07:00The Neverending Meal Plan: food crisis (part 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1ItO6_ePhhSAYpiFnpRH89aUGRVBH2ZfgzmdlQ5YqlwvvoyOY4lnCf8VyvYlQrJTkG_IVwMur3KtN1fE_Mpn5kKElfC5jsBwi7VooA3HrnWefskkj0bF_jghOEfIGskvBsJTeUUX20LB/s1600/meal+plan+2blog+design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1ItO6_ePhhSAYpiFnpRH89aUGRVBH2ZfgzmdlQ5YqlwvvoyOY4lnCf8VyvYlQrJTkG_IVwMur3KtN1fE_Mpn5kKElfC5jsBwi7VooA3HrnWefskkj0bF_jghOEfIGskvBsJTeUUX20LB/s1600/meal+plan+2blog+design.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The </span><a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2015/03/the-neverending-meal-plan.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;" target="_blank">neverending meal plan</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> is going great, the shopping fortnightly, not so much. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We had the great privilege of practicing hospitality last weekend. We had a friend over on Friday, to whom I didn't want to serve leftovers, so I just skipped on to the next meal on our plan. Then on Saturday, we had friends over for afternoon tea and dinner, and we feasted on fruit and fresh salad rolls since it was right after our shopping day. On Sunday, </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I started cooking dinner before we had even eaten lunch because our friend had travelled a long way and we knew we wanted to invite him to stay for dinner. So by the time Monday rolled around, we had no fresh food and a week's worth of cooked leftovers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We made it to the end of the week on leftovers</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> and carbs, with the occasional fruit offered by my wonderful in-laws. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After a week of pretty much no fresh produce, I sat down discouraged and looked at my meal plan. We had been working through it at a crazy rate, I barely had time to change the </span><a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/secret-hidden-meal-planner.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;" target="_blank">magnets on the fridge</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">. The thing is, it had pretty much saved the week. With people passing through faster than I could count, I would never have had time to sit down and consider what to cook. So if the meal plan wasn't the problem, what was?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Looking at the Marvellous Mr M searching the fridge for any stray pieces of fruit to snack on, I knew the answer. I was being far too stubborn about the "shopping fortnightly". Sure, we had enough food to eat. Sure, we were saving money and not wasting leftovers. Bu</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">t when we were finished a fortnight's meal plan and groceries several days before shopping day, was eating leftover rice and mashed potatoes really the best thing for our family? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">To be continued <a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2015/03/the-neverending-meal-plan-food-crisis_16.html">here</a>...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-51516794842199049562015-03-05T18:16:00.000-08:002015-03-05T18:16:16.500-08:00Sneaky Ukulele Cheatsheet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPZpLAB8Sr0ktvnuuNCROAqdgsoxxBlrxOLMpT1-sca7WOTw7o6wU7sncXvGq-t4f11jd95zFxBKfA_B03m7MKUdhcHjlDpB9e-smWZ7RKi8T7jeTanlroLkeFL_RbM12cvqyOzwOTpdS/s1600/ukulele+cheatsheet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPZpLAB8Sr0ktvnuuNCROAqdgsoxxBlrxOLMpT1-sca7WOTw7o6wU7sncXvGq-t4f11jd95zFxBKfA_B03m7MKUdhcHjlDpB9e-smWZ7RKi8T7jeTanlroLkeFL_RbM12cvqyOzwOTpdS/s1600/ukulele+cheatsheet.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If I hold any hope of convincing people I can actually play the ukulele anytime, anywhere, I'm gonna have to get creative, Amyzingly Creative. More likely than not, I'm also going to need to be just a little bit sneaky.</span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love my ukulele. It was the first Valentine's present I ever received, and it was given to me by the Marvellous Mr M only a few months after our <a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/wedding-in-week-budget-shabby-chic.html" target="_blank">miracle wedding</a>. I wasn't really expecting anything, and I certainly wasn't expecting this, but Mr M put so much thought into it. It came complete with printed song sheets, a learn-to-play PDF on a USB complete with a laptop to start learning immediately, as well as some high quality string to add and a romantic stroll through the bush to play my first notes where only the lorikeets could hear and cringe. While I didn't play it much at first, it has grown on me a lot these past few months in particular, to the point where my fingers are starting to peel! (Sorry if the photo grosses you out)</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The idea for this gift probably came as a result of me wanting to bring my guitar camping but never being able to fit it in our small car with all the camping gear. Now, I have an instrument that I find much easier and fits into my handbag! Admittedly, I carry a lot of strange things in my oversized handbag, hence why I was able to win the handbag scavenger hunt last night (bonus points for having a screwdriver).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I like to walk around the park nearby playing my ukulele, and I have been asked occasionally to serenade joggers with a song. But alas! My musical abilities have yet to reach the point where I have memorised more than the typical "Over the Rainbow". Determined to respond better next time, I printed myself a little cheatsheet notebook of songs we sing at church, as well as the most common chords in case I get stuck.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I quickly realised that if I wanted to be really sneaky, I was going to have to stop the pages from flapping around everywhere. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIaoNLchYOkkcnl6QLZ1XX0hHuhYEu-FgV3MCcjbwaSp1TdsMtBtiSCum9VNpcFYzVv-Iy0yFavxoX3VeEd1AUe4a2ztlnTghlMOwUnmfDtB7DD98V7r4ZqFwjVIRes6kh5ZxrQc33b768/s1600/DSC06165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIaoNLchYOkkcnl6QLZ1XX0hHuhYEu-FgV3MCcjbwaSp1TdsMtBtiSCum9VNpcFYzVv-Iy0yFavxoX3VeEd1AUe4a2ztlnTghlMOwUnmfDtB7DD98V7r4ZqFwjVIRes6kh5ZxrQc33b768/s1600/DSC06165.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since I was already busy getting tangled up with tape, I decided to stick with that as my material of choice. I simply doubled over a long piece of tape and stuck it over the pages, like a belt tucked into a belt strap.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2wsFYo0X908D7PCI-ZRdhVTb603OWYqDQAcVzTcjhyphenhyphent10a15TlD5hioksLq4qUQKiaWcA23HjaULMOkrpy33VoSaKrJIxnuM5huCNxo4mdftrXxJwPTUkm3tkVtP2_15ZMCk9ULnqRHJ/s1600/DSC06169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2wsFYo0X908D7PCI-ZRdhVTb603OWYqDQAcVzTcjhyphenhyphent10a15TlD5hioksLq4qUQKiaWcA23HjaULMOkrpy33VoSaKrJIxnuM5huCNxo4mdftrXxJwPTUkm3tkVtP2_15ZMCk9ULnqRHJ/s1600/DSC06169.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It worked so well, I added a second one to the other side. Now I have no need to worry about the wind revealing my secret! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Of course, you sort of know my secret now, so it has probably lost most of its secretness...oh well! Maybe you can use this idea to add something sneaky around your house. Recipes on the back of a spatula? Computer passwords under the keyboard! If you don't mind revealing your secret, comment below! I look forward to reading all about it!</span></div>
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Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-6838805735332439852015-03-02T20:54:00.001-08:002015-03-16T16:25:47.499-07:00The Neverending Meal Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2015/03/the-neverending-meal-plan.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg729NtF-bNBowh-nXcZtBFqaDUvD-G7Qlpml-Bsy9Z4aiOp_PgAMPD83YWBI7mq0NDWSz6avXpAKzmjHa70UfQAQ3F6ECBjj62RUCUXu-H2h96-WUD3N0nYS2xZ_6_GrYFmEbzT6Y_h2wc/s1600/meal+plan.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My </span><a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/secret-hidden-meal-planner.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;" target="_blank">magnetic meal planner</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> solved the time sensitive problem of "What's for dinner?" Now it's time to plan even further ahead and bring down that weekly grocery bill!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We have recently been away in Japan for 2 months (sorry for the lack of blogging!) and, as an added surprise, my parents sold the house where we were living while we were away. So not only did we come home and unpack suitcases, we had to unpack everything else as well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Fortunately, my parents and parents-in-law had done all the hard work for us, but it still took me two weeks to unpack and organise. By the time we finished eating random packets of leftover noodles and throwing out expired boxes of muffin bars, we had a very bare looking pantry. I thought it would be a great time to reassess our shopping and meal planning strategy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The <a href="http://amyzinglycreative.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/secret-hidden-meal-planner.html" target="_blank">weekly meal planner</a> really has been a blessing, and I was starting to wonder if planning ever further in advance could help with others problems, like grocery shopping. On average, the Marvellous Mr M and I budget $50 a week on shopping, which includes hygiene and cleaning products, as well as our general groceries. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Last year, at any given time our pantry and fridge was stocked with frozen pizza, party pies, 2 minute noodles, instant pasta packets, bolognese sauce jars and every weird and inevitably inedible snack that caught our fancy. Of course, the standard meat and veggies were always present too, but it sounds pretty bad when you say it all together like that. Just looking at this photo now makes me want to cover my face with embarrassment. What is that? Four different types of frozen breads!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">While we were in Japan, we discovered that the norm there is to eat out or buy a pre-packed lunch or "obento" from a convenience shop. Even if you were lucky enough to have a decent sized kitchen, the ingredients were so expensive and pre-packed food was so cheap that cooking at home was not always the cheapest option. We really struggled to find affordable ingredients that weren't octopus tentacles or tempura batter (so glad that tentacle photo finally came in handy).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When we came back, I realised what a blessing it is to buy cheap, Australian produce and have a well equipped kitchen, even if it is set up in the middle of the back patio.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicrNC7f2mWLAgX8xc9eS4Rusl6Onn9B-PUYSPyIWwyvsvM3X_HcWqPGq4XTcEOcGMBXOF5XfdKak9KOarbEQpmRgsXTm594Em9wjyM4qxSbnscF-5w4j4b4DMlLXHTLa8zmY80FXYn0Wyl/s1600/kitchen+outside.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicrNC7f2mWLAgX8xc9eS4Rusl6Onn9B-PUYSPyIWwyvsvM3X_HcWqPGq4XTcEOcGMBXOF5XfdKak9KOarbEQpmRgsXTm594Em9wjyM4qxSbnscF-5w4j4b4DMlLXHTLa8zmY80FXYn0Wyl/s1600/kitchen+outside.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">With a new found appreciation for fresh, Australian produce and cheap ingredients, I was caught up in a whirlwind of cooking from scratch and eating healthy. It wasn't even really on purpose! But check out this amazing roast chicken I cooked in the slow cooker (my new best friend). Admittedly I did put it in the oven to grill for all of 5 minutes at the end, but it doesn't change the fact that the slow cooker is an absolute wonder.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLggHlQ2E-6rAZh70TzEw0FzKqRYnir5Db0wAgiYnjPxoPJLtCGE3xohgpp1iqLYDLKqg2pktHiv26ouhi2n_MgJguhLN7iRJ91aYjOqOkM9n4vQq5VvLkG-cLdKTi2piUm5N99uTdR0ec/s1600/10989204_10152722387567828_4168123661633991738_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLggHlQ2E-6rAZh70TzEw0FzKqRYnir5Db0wAgiYnjPxoPJLtCGE3xohgpp1iqLYDLKqg2pktHiv26ouhi2n_MgJguhLN7iRJ91aYjOqOkM9n4vQq5VvLkG-cLdKTi2piUm5N99uTdR0ec/s1600/10989204_10152722387567828_4168123661633991738_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And while I'm on the topic of being grateful for real kitchen appliances, I also baked the Marvellous Mr M some cupcakes, iced with home-prepared icing sugar. I had so much icing left I attempted to make icing dots (a rip off of yoghurt dots which I have yet to try). And, if you're wondering, no they did not work. After a week in the freezer, they were still just blobs of icing.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-f7AyoLusDGzQxLrBkiI1mwJi8Ny9W32EoR50AYk27mdqwzXxg0IA4wmZPfNo7bEu9dklvtBOziLQqUDaqWrOXiXhHB_KEVU3enbcEqUwSsLX_EkMT4nBlB5UVT1-ObMJFmgJrfJf69qc/s1600/1506841_10152724557607828_9134970366043046205_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-f7AyoLusDGzQxLrBkiI1mwJi8Ny9W32EoR50AYk27mdqwzXxg0IA4wmZPfNo7bEu9dklvtBOziLQqUDaqWrOXiXhHB_KEVU3enbcEqUwSsLX_EkMT4nBlB5UVT1-ObMJFmgJrfJf69qc/s1600/1506841_10152724557607828_9134970366043046205_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Okay, so maybe saying we are eating healthy is a little bit of a stretch when you look at last week as an example, but it was a birthday week. That's my excuse anyway...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The point is, the neverending meal planner is working. We are 1.5 weeks into our first fortnight, and have only made 2 minor and very strict trips for milk and cupcake ingredients. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, here it is, the meal plan that never ends!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe29rTyJKRRDhcO1ZaL3sIb6glhCDhkFksbh8xRwO9wCCMGn4NK8ubkTyXyyN4-fhQCskLhtp98mqSlnaqtP3wUC-ZTnqb7dPfIiNt4l6ejPaRiEGWX0Z7lvhO7Jie6hAwl58Xw40Q0O8Z/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-03+at+2.26.44+pm.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe29rTyJKRRDhcO1ZaL3sIb6glhCDhkFksbh8xRwO9wCCMGn4NK8ubkTyXyyN4-fhQCskLhtp98mqSlnaqtP3wUC-ZTnqb7dPfIiNt4l6ejPaRiEGWX0Z7lvhO7Jie6hAwl58Xw40Q0O8Z/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-03+at+2.26.44+pm.png" height="412" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is sort of a monthly meal plan, but it is filled with all our favourites and a few generic dishes which mean it never needs to be re-written (which is not to say I won't re-write it; Mr M tells me I have quite a habit of reorganising things that don't need reorganising). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is based around a fortnightly shopping cycle. Fortnight 1 starts with shopping on the Saturday, ideally at the local markets where fresh produce is reasonably priced and the atmosphere makes it much more fun than the supermarket.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Shopping day is basic: bread rolls for lunch and spaghetti bolognese for dinner where as much mince as possible is pre-cooked and frozen for later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The next few days are full of fresh fruit, root vegetables and salads. This is also the best time for me to do a slow cooker chicken and bake some snacks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The pattern starts again at the beginning of fortnight one with a few changes: lamb chops instead of boerewors (this is where Mr M gets to satisfy his luxury meat craving for the fortnight), Thai stir fry swaps with Asian stir fry and saucy Asian chicken swaps with saucy Indian chicken, which is what I'm cooking tonight: YUM!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Note that the names are often generic. "Saucy chicken", "Chicken stir fry", "Special treat" and "OPEN" leave room for buying according to what's on special or trying a new recipe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">An added bonus of this meal planner over the paper version is that is has plenty of room for breakfast and I can edit it whenever I want. I currently have a different version on my iPad which I use daily to keep track of what we're eating and what to defrost or prepare ahead of time. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHRZfqcy1BLnTU_wCZ6sYWfLGk5o10I9vIPeb7UNwG4nRWJmCgwUaSpAawnq4VO0CQ3c8B1RTBrHTsO3iSAW6Ko8zHzBT4LciRxuIC37E7WKI3Enoi1GVv21MSnxFeZe1H4gYp689AR53/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-03+at+2.37.21+pm.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHRZfqcy1BLnTU_wCZ6sYWfLGk5o10I9vIPeb7UNwG4nRWJmCgwUaSpAawnq4VO0CQ3c8B1RTBrHTsO3iSAW6Ko8zHzBT4LciRxuIC37E7WKI3Enoi1GVv21MSnxFeZe1H4gYp689AR53/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-03+at+2.37.21+pm.png" height="125" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mr M has constantly been amazed about how well organised I am (considering the norm used to be having nothing for lunch and him skipping meals or eating out). So glad that isn't the norm any more! Thankyou neverending meal plan!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-45124655069450357602014-11-11T02:56:00.001-08:002015-03-02T20:56:04.437-08:00A DIY response to the IKEA wall storage rod<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3trgQt5nkSjuFQkb386BAwzavtROCq219hKvht7iZa3r24yI2Ylc5vV9xItScmJf_Xk5P8ukNSCy1bzJrsyZUF1_fjLt9BdXZngLLO14QCLwSPCQT9VclMozTNKN73cn89zmHnZ8dHE/s1600/blog+design+utensil+rod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3trgQt5nkSjuFQkb386BAwzavtROCq219hKvht7iZa3r24yI2Ylc5vV9xItScmJf_Xk5P8ukNSCy1bzJrsyZUF1_fjLt9BdXZngLLO14QCLwSPCQT9VclMozTNKN73cn89zmHnZ8dHE/s1600/blog+design+utensil+rod.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
Keen to hang your utensils but not much wall space? Don't have an IKEA nearby? Check out how the Marvellous Mr M made this utensil hanging rod on the side of the fridge!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Don't tell Mr M, but this project probably didn't save us that much money. The command hooks, wooden dowel and wire cost just over $22 from Bunnings, compared to the $10 IKEA stainless steal Grundtal wall rail and 10 pack of hooks for $1. However, with the leftover command hooks, wood and wire we have plenty of material to make another rod and all the hooks we could ever ask for!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyFC_rYGLyiSptSmR17TrQaQGkh_ewAbqSH50V4Z4eV9par1ptY-IZF4N0Rrk3UsaLHTKIM9YJt82JzeMsO4QlWdhbKENOVyh8fNHevrUgbOL68SAFnLJNj-UFw5emluRzdV0ej0IKnA/s1600/DSC_3920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyFC_rYGLyiSptSmR17TrQaQGkh_ewAbqSH50V4Z4eV9par1ptY-IZF4N0Rrk3UsaLHTKIM9YJt82JzeMsO4QlWdhbKENOVyh8fNHevrUgbOL68SAFnLJNj-UFw5emluRzdV0ej0IKnA/s1600/DSC_3920.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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There were a number of other benefits for taking the DIY route (other than Mr M getting to flex his muscles and show how well he can use a pair of pliers). The command hooks are easily removable, which means we could have used the huge wall space above our makeshift kitchen, but we decided to go the safe route anyway and stick it to the side of the fridge. We could also decide our own length for the rod, as well as different lengths for the hooks depending on what they would carry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFV71pCiGSjJOWPcEpSQXIPJrXuRfIacfnp1Ll5LYi68u6N6cW5aWoMvvXSjJFEMRyQvlgSXJPjK1WRynas_vG9cMLsk-t1m9Nqw_WQjw4kk4WASSYNXU1dV1j6ze2YOEgR6bBTDX_eVw/s1600/DSC_3897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFV71pCiGSjJOWPcEpSQXIPJrXuRfIacfnp1Ll5LYi68u6N6cW5aWoMvvXSjJFEMRyQvlgSXJPjK1WRynas_vG9cMLsk-t1m9Nqw_WQjw4kk4WASSYNXU1dV1j6ze2YOEgR6bBTDX_eVw/s1600/DSC_3897.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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The tongs needed the most head space as they hang rather precariously, while the wooden spoons needed a more obtuse angled hook as their small hole does not leave much room for wiggling on nicely. Mr M created these beautiful, unique hooks using nothing more than a simple pair of pliers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpLU8yPHSh8vIhx7GmL3IHZI7gSa7UfJphf1WtzVQocM9ycU4EZvBPPr3MdiC_LjfkRQGQSYTdY6KT-pSwkceobqUSmbQFKfGXhm_NXgAuNeo5LrdWNYQqLnsVVaUVZiKMDjf_mUWny0/s1600/DSC_3953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpLU8yPHSh8vIhx7GmL3IHZI7gSa7UfJphf1WtzVQocM9ycU4EZvBPPr3MdiC_LjfkRQGQSYTdY6KT-pSwkceobqUSmbQFKfGXhm_NXgAuNeo5LrdWNYQqLnsVVaUVZiKMDjf_mUWny0/s1600/DSC_3953.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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As always, an honest review: the wooden spoons are still pretty hard to get off, and the upfront cost is almost twice that of IKEA. However, the IKEA route would not have worked for us, and this is the perfect temporary solution. It is very sturdy, easily modified and it looks great. Good job Mr M!</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-39371246441591964002014-11-05T15:20:00.001-08:002014-11-11T03:00:16.006-08:00Family initiation - dining kit <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dMCigTrt1UE1G3_d1n1u5X7LXLn4jJb37yVFKBk0voXJbq9NmcWvtMPKSt3lcX0Oz80UOrQMRLprtDNEgJIsXGQbBjfF2lRvtMg8JQg70pDdKyON1SFWDOA-1yKIiBtAau1rDaBROIE/s1600/blog+design+dinner+set.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dMCigTrt1UE1G3_d1n1u5X7LXLn4jJb37yVFKBk0voXJbq9NmcWvtMPKSt3lcX0Oz80UOrQMRLprtDNEgJIsXGQbBjfF2lRvtMg8JQg70pDdKyON1SFWDOA-1yKIiBtAau1rDaBROIE/s1600/blog+design+dinner+set.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Using 6 paperclips and sticky tape, I was able to create a one set per person dining kit.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Since there are only the two of us most of the time, it would make sense if we didn't use that many dishes. However, after washing <i>eight</i> bowls in one go, I figured something needed to change. I talked to the Marvellous Mr M and we agreed to try and use just one set of dinner gear each. That left me wondering what I should do with the spare dinner gear, not to mention the four different sets of glasses and two sets of plastic cups we have somehow collected.<br />
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I thought it might be nice to display our crockery in individual sets. You see, in the ideal world inside my head, visitors can claim a set, use it, <i>and then wash it!</i> I have yet to succeed with that theory, but in the meantime I was able to succeed in my endeavour to make a display.</div>
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Here are the much sought after (and usually forgotten) before and after photos:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ED9s8IyfFGVj2Qh8gvF1Z3w1lAFXjQSJqOw6KfaCR2bgyP0BginlcM7AFFtZ2Ahdb03wjnYH8o1ZgPiJgDrkzgpL3UCGM0nrbQ91eqaHc1Q6qa4JV45HBwM9_L6poc3ulx34id7rAoM/s1600/before3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ED9s8IyfFGVj2Qh8gvF1Z3w1lAFXjQSJqOw6KfaCR2bgyP0BginlcM7AFFtZ2Ahdb03wjnYH8o1ZgPiJgDrkzgpL3UCGM0nrbQ91eqaHc1Q6qa4JV45HBwM9_L6poc3ulx34id7rAoM/s1600/before3.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKdi2lOKmzFvKBiA1TVtxQVryQG1LPhTXRlLSod7jgs2a37-MuCW-TOs077xe4h55XLyzyRotGxcpyO80SFhrpDf1PO1xvbk3cqFiKA0GtosKHVQSs-IwCslIf-pNwzljYcSJiywlZcQ/s1600/after3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKdi2lOKmzFvKBiA1TVtxQVryQG1LPhTXRlLSod7jgs2a37-MuCW-TOs077xe4h55XLyzyRotGxcpyO80SFhrpDf1PO1xvbk3cqFiKA0GtosKHVQSs-IwCslIf-pNwzljYcSJiywlZcQ/s1600/after3.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
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While I could have used some of the hooks left over from our fridge utensil makeover, I decided to be a bit more thrifty and experiment with paperclips.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHcOCUgMhO5tG7mW3zTQs9g9cMttHcIh1RfDlqkflWzJ_mHFg932_0g4FHPFcf_148vSipfutxmywbyM5Kp9ZTgdVIN6_LxmC6Pg0xcsdF0QLLYgypzXF12t0GeyFAxgKvbYxJ32FxqnA/s1600/Dinner_organising_kit_cutlery_hook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHcOCUgMhO5tG7mW3zTQs9g9cMttHcIh1RfDlqkflWzJ_mHFg932_0g4FHPFcf_148vSipfutxmywbyM5Kp9ZTgdVIN6_LxmC6Pg0xcsdF0QLLYgypzXF12t0GeyFAxgKvbYxJ32FxqnA/s1600/Dinner_organising_kit_cutlery_hook.jpg" height="293" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1ezz8igUUf0ArdCNzPRHzpSPy7Q5yLup9-etH_iY2MYvcCxQqEQ3oSNzaYlXLjm0GfBLi9sJFBJOqZR2_ixdwkv4CEf5jMSdLYdpmnGiKUIn0ln_8q5OFTbYWoknnlQeNehlkjhtl6s/s1600/Dinner_organising_kit_bowls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1ezz8igUUf0ArdCNzPRHzpSPy7Q5yLup9-etH_iY2MYvcCxQqEQ3oSNzaYlXLjm0GfBLi9sJFBJOqZR2_ixdwkv4CEf5jMSdLYdpmnGiKUIn0ln_8q5OFTbYWoknnlQeNehlkjhtl6s/s1600/Dinner_organising_kit_bowls.jpg" height="204" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirdAKbPD0TiUihEg6BmrqtBpnVqvMfM8PZPLqTP_TEo3_eJRLmXdTpuoE3w7UzIXdMYD1ouKurVuxwB0w_XHhMFIWaekb8HoGegDrOa6pptmqTYZSxgII4-pXRg1q-9yY-8lO4Okzq1Cg/s1600/Dinner_organising_kit_bowls_on_shelves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirdAKbPD0TiUihEg6BmrqtBpnVqvMfM8PZPLqTP_TEo3_eJRLmXdTpuoE3w7UzIXdMYD1ouKurVuxwB0w_XHhMFIWaekb8HoGegDrOa6pptmqTYZSxgII4-pXRg1q-9yY-8lO4Okzq1Cg/s1600/Dinner_organising_kit_bowls_on_shelves.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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An honest review: The paper clips look a bit tacky up close, but they were easy and definitely did the job. At least...for a day. After 24 hours one of the paper clips had fallen off. It could have been easily fixed with more tape but I needed the cutlery so I left it empty. After a few more days, all of the paper clips had sagged and one was so low the cutlery was basically standing on tip-toe, barely relying on the paper clip at all. Fortunately, the paper clips were not really essential to the display. Rather than buy command hooks or some other pricey solution, I think I'll see how the cutlery looks just sitting in the bowls. Yup, just as I thought, still lookin' classy!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-56096603370450562932014-04-12T22:24:00.001-07:002015-03-16T14:42:03.513-07:00You are sooooo beautiful....<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/AVvXsEj6d7JcexHxd04VMLIsWli3ukJ-tAYMM4PksikdpWMz_L3dBb2uIjSayB3bY-8fug3CkTNrMGjietDx_YtM8HAo23Yipxiv8cjLGL0ac841aVXd3v7V3EdykSyi7tp_vyev2739NXC_O7g/s640/blogger-image--350009992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6d7JcexHxd04VMLIsWli3ukJ-tAYMM4PksikdpWMz_L3dBb2uIjSayB3bY-8fug3CkTNrMGjietDx_YtM8HAo23Yipxiv8cjLGL0ac841aVXd3v7V3EdykSyi7tp_vyev2739NXC_O7g/s400/blogger-image--350009992.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">There are two sides to the argument about modesty. Argument A: boys can't control their eyes or their thoughts so girls must stoop to wearing shapeless, unflattering clothes so as not to tempt them. Argument B: girls are already insecure enough about their body - telling them to cover up will just make matters worse. Well, without blaming bad boys or guilty girls, I have an Amyzingly Creative idea, and I wrote it down just for you...</span></td></tr>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">You are <i>sooooooooo</i> beautiful.</b></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"></span></span></span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_534a1dea61d7f9496086113" style="display: inline;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><b>You are so beautiful</b> that if you were to walk down the street flashing your long legs and cute belly button for all the world to see, you'd make all the boys go crazy. But that's not so good for them, because that picture of you would haunt their dreams and make their hearts break that they can't keep you. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><b>You are so beautiful</b>, you don't need to wear a bikini just to see <span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">if boys really will go crazy. Only insecurity depends on that sort of flattery. And you don't need to follow the trends of girls who don't care what they're doing to boys. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /><b>You are so beautiful</b>, and if you could just be confident enough in that truth to dress modestly and with a smile, the rest of the world would see it too. When you dress modestly you are telling all the boys "My body is soo good looking that I know you won't be able to cope if I just show it off to you and then walk away. So I'm not going to put any guy through that until I find the one guy who can keep me forever." That way, guys who only want to dream of beautiful women will leave you alone, and the ones who understand why you are saving yourself will appreciate you all the more. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" style="display: inline; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br />So when you pick your next outfit or what you will wear to the beach, remember...<br /><b>You are so beautiful. </b><i>Start acting like it.</i></span></span></span></span></div>
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❤️Amy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAlxmlywfI6QMxFLuf4jshEXePLJGOr29sbkTHZT8tF3VPeV_SXF7LnUFfz03KoCSM6fcJwiHkXQZ61yEVPUJ5A4tBnSz4WyxbA36oiyjFcBpIckSJUuk5bNEWGCBNFdvti6Rxi4EUJQ/s640/blogger-image--1286951593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAlxmlywfI6QMxFLuf4jshEXePLJGOr29sbkTHZT8tF3VPeV_SXF7LnUFfz03KoCSM6fcJwiHkXQZ61yEVPUJ5A4tBnSz4WyxbA36oiyjFcBpIckSJUuk5bNEWGCBNFdvti6Rxi4EUJQ/s640/blogger-image--1286951593.jpg" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-79111635870299893892014-04-11T18:14:00.001-07:002014-10-29T16:49:46.617-07:00Giant Springrolls<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/AVvXsEgHRB5JW0GNZ4DDH0h1qSP0uWwQRklmF4i7Crz-73NmbzFjSni-SbVO-IXLFKnFPmAQb3DCq_YiwIZp9FUnkdoaDJ_6vZ_0ccmNyPmOYy4QMYVclFdc44SJNXkcPr0vU5Ou1ukO6ILVTPM/s1600/IMG_3099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRB5JW0GNZ4DDH0h1qSP0uWwQRklmF4i7Crz-73NmbzFjSni-SbVO-IXLFKnFPmAQb3DCq_YiwIZp9FUnkdoaDJ_6vZ_0ccmNyPmOYy4QMYVclFdc44SJNXkcPr0vU5Ou1ukO6ILVTPM/s1600/IMG_3099.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is one of my favourite recipes to make as a group, so round up your helpers and get ready for something delicious!</span></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>I found these spring roll wrappers at an Asian grocery store. You can get different sizes. This is the biggest size with 30 wrappers for about $4.<br />
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Other ingredients include:</h4>
Shredded carrot<br />
Shredded cabbage<br />
Thin rice noodles<br />
Ginger (optional)<br />
Garlic (optional)<br />
Egg (for helping the wrappers stay closed)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNDdBpccjiAvHMyAa1yyJu23SSfGfwvww74Am3a7zuKcBcVPJvItNuu82ZiBMxvTZ5isNXEAtvinc17ayeuWBLghw2VRXOvZGXWjTXUen5eaCJ2JRefsM7VWICrf2y6ZI8QcR3r-ehQ8/s1600/IMG_3110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNDdBpccjiAvHMyAa1yyJu23SSfGfwvww74Am3a7zuKcBcVPJvItNuu82ZiBMxvTZ5isNXEAtvinc17ayeuWBLghw2VRXOvZGXWjTXUen5eaCJ2JRefsM7VWICrf2y6ZI8QcR3r-ehQ8/s1600/IMG_3110.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Line the ingredients up inside a wrapper and fold them. One way to fold them is to fold the top down, then the bottom, spread some egg over the edges, fold the left edge over then continue rolling. The wrappers are pretty delicate; they split when they are soggy or overfilled and they are impossible to work with frozen. Ideally, have a production line going so you can put them straight into the frying pan after you have wrapped them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9rk9OJpsis0gzjEmV-0QmUxJR_WUzf1RDv6r35vFZJi-mPUc68eUc9k66FG-IncOWk9n3SmAWHcv6aYXk1GAD4kzyz1mv-DSginF0qMuGCZp8L0ei_7yRYdsoAvSXz1QpOxdDjI8mBc/s1600/IMG_3111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9rk9OJpsis0gzjEmV-0QmUxJR_WUzf1RDv6r35vFZJi-mPUc68eUc9k66FG-IncOWk9n3SmAWHcv6aYXk1GAD4kzyz1mv-DSginF0qMuGCZp8L0ei_7yRYdsoAvSXz1QpOxdDjI8mBc/s1600/IMG_3111.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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These can be cooked in the oven, but they taste so much better deep fried in oil! Cook them until they are nice and crispy. Serve ASAP with soy sauce or sweet chilli sauce.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87zbDty7fDxvgNBv2jTrMKAPk90Ywc2U4-i7KHTT45GmNoDp9OrVW9nsFNtv0TObpSYj8Etfhz00GiZCLQwcMnv_QFv7ho4P_v-wHrLbSOqm0mV2OyfuUMeg2zselE-pZ7tNClUU2Uz4/s1600/IMG_3112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87zbDty7fDxvgNBv2jTrMKAPk90Ywc2U4-i7KHTT45GmNoDp9OrVW9nsFNtv0TObpSYj8Etfhz00GiZCLQwcMnv_QFv7ho4P_v-wHrLbSOqm0mV2OyfuUMeg2zselE-pZ7tNClUU2Uz4/s1600/IMG_3112.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-71228066593225648542014-03-24T22:41:00.002-07:002014-11-11T12:24:00.547-08:00Colourful Keys in 5 minutes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhff7JcJAEWx14CJz8OQ2XI31BqZg1nvDqjZQSeEWh9LoJ1BSwYtng7UkhdFYbnNm0G2aaPfP58nmHs1-teeyWEPPZ5Qj4hkNPkPDm9s5J0Wy2TsXLIk4xp82JGkz7KdvwxA4qLtj17jEU/s640/blogger-image-299309432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhff7JcJAEWx14CJz8OQ2XI31BqZg1nvDqjZQSeEWh9LoJ1BSwYtng7UkhdFYbnNm0G2aaPfP58nmHs1-teeyWEPPZ5Qj4hkNPkPDm9s5J0Wy2TsXLIk4xp82JGkz7KdvwxA4qLtj17jEU/s400/blogger-image-299309432.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">This project took all of 5 minutes on a rainy day.</span></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>What you will need: Nailpolish and the keys you want to paint<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pxTbmwDslVL0y8pKPzxPG7SXNaL1Q2ExOnx11fu5sh7cmQR8wo1qKxL6QB9R73fHQfZPQxhVN6s0raOAHigLX5n38bVXYlgpBr2x1KMICv-9zJS9zk5l9xtnTOl0hOyvgYcb9IZlqUQ/s1600/DSC05161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pxTbmwDslVL0y8pKPzxPG7SXNaL1Q2ExOnx11fu5sh7cmQR8wo1qKxL6QB9R73fHQfZPQxhVN6s0raOAHigLX5n38bVXYlgpBr2x1KMICv-9zJS9zk5l9xtnTOl0hOyvgYcb9IZlqUQ/s1600/DSC05161.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I thought I might need pegs but the nailpolish dried so quickly that I really could have just held it. If you wanted to do lots of keys, pegs could be a good idea.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmZnol-QqJbU1hjMD0J6Ua9RG5SpN11tk4LkprPnwLvDMqzfIO3rUxkJ8o4xhbd8gHKd_2a95Z15Pdl3a1Dp2ItijFolynYETin-dKikkfQkPzB1LJx_ls6K0obj4al2lFvQKFkCmL74/s1600/DSC05164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmZnol-QqJbU1hjMD0J6Ua9RG5SpN11tk4LkprPnwLvDMqzfIO3rUxkJ8o4xhbd8gHKd_2a95Z15Pdl3a1Dp2ItijFolynYETin-dKikkfQkPzB1LJx_ls6K0obj4al2lFvQKFkCmL74/s1600/DSC05164.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's really that simple! I just did one coat on each key, by which time the first key had dried and I could do the second coat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzvoggrM8t195UeMoZDi1AiLQk90AIaTjdp9vUJLhddfkhx523Zz_zBme4OSR9taJs5eZirJWpgHkQ7P0-PO-wkwUY_xkD0aHAa2CxIJWQlKcfL8dgE9tubh2nMwOEXhFcS6h2OkGUmA/s1600/DSC05170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzvoggrM8t195UeMoZDi1AiLQk90AIaTjdp9vUJLhddfkhx523Zz_zBme4OSR9taJs5eZirJWpgHkQ7P0-PO-wkwUY_xkD0aHAa2CxIJWQlKcfL8dgE9tubh2nMwOEXhFcS6h2OkGUmA/s1600/DSC05170.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pretty nifty considering it took me 5 minutes and didn't even require a trip to the shops! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXC5jRcDxdjzRsR9dNKiQ1h_iBqnPoiJdVZ9p3Mg2mCf-e1-8uq03oRZxGZhvEpr_IyOtITeG85Ozjq1lUZsDTLTCb4BkAyKeZ5-9BOhfTc_shu_wJQO0cLCT5WrqaqWTRYuVfW98InnQ/s1600/DSC05173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXC5jRcDxdjzRsR9dNKiQ1h_iBqnPoiJdVZ9p3Mg2mCf-e1-8uq03oRZxGZhvEpr_IyOtITeG85Ozjq1lUZsDTLTCb4BkAyKeZ5-9BOhfTc_shu_wJQO0cLCT5WrqaqWTRYuVfW98InnQ/s1600/DSC05173.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Now I'll easily be able to spot these frequently used keys among the rest.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOaEYWKid0GuM86lc8oupHQU5aoAJRjD8UE0l_RTXpGs2nkmzfG5Fv64atZ0j5dZTc6e30kyKDt4FNdtT2iypVPtb7RUJ07sy6dSc-AAhUJntwYAytlTXERT4ydVzJQNBRTO22qlmGmM/s1600/DSC05177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOaEYWKid0GuM86lc8oupHQU5aoAJRjD8UE0l_RTXpGs2nkmzfG5Fv64atZ0j5dZTc6e30kyKDt4FNdtT2iypVPtb7RUJ07sy6dSc-AAhUJntwYAytlTXERT4ydVzJQNBRTO22qlmGmM/s1600/DSC05177.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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An honest review: The nailpolish has gradually worn off and looks a bit tacky now, but it is so fast and effective, I am planning to do a new coat, this time with glow in the dark nail polish so I can find them in the dark!</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-38718754523802239402014-02-20T20:58:00.000-08:002014-10-29T16:49:30.739-07:00Cardboard Camera Wishing Well for $1.75<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This weekend we are celebrating the birthday of the Marvelous Mr M! He has asked people to give him money instead of presents so he can buy a fancy camera. The Amyzingly Creative person that I am, I had to make something cool for people to put money into!</span></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>I was imagining I'd have to mess around with paper mâché if I wanted the diy camera to resemble the real one, but fortunately for me it was so much easier! In fact, I didn't even use glue or tape or anything until the finishing touches! The only essential tool was a Stanley knife.<br />
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First step: a cardboard box, some thumb tacs and an old medicine bottle.</div>
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I was going to print a photo to stick here but I found a digital photo frame which looks soo cool when it's on.</div>
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The lens was a sour cream lid, a plastic container I accidentally cracked a while ago and some cloth tape from Bunnings (that's the $1.75) </div>
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The top was just a milk bottle cap, a random knob I found and some more thumb tacs. The 'flash' is where people put their cards. I love it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1RMjO54Vyk2GfPRWfNVAqVFoeO2GTZCOXkvQoOW5C1EnrxkU1bZgg4TzDZiDbuest9X4317IROFqcSFgkTjg9X-sreUOtnwAyTsNxjCLnDu-rweoWS3_4oEEJjceJFkMMTHcBWw6-BcQ/s640/blogger-image-1885675246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1RMjO54Vyk2GfPRWfNVAqVFoeO2GTZCOXkvQoOW5C1EnrxkU1bZgg4TzDZiDbuest9X4317IROFqcSFgkTjg9X-sreUOtnwAyTsNxjCLnDu-rweoWS3_4oEEJjceJFkMMTHcBWw6-BcQ/s400/blogger-image-1885675246.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And...now he has his camera!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-37977110585027722372014-01-22T14:43:00.001-08:002015-03-16T14:42:51.171-07:00Freedom for the Freezer<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">Hopefully you've been told by now not to eat yellow snow. I live in the snowless land of Summer and even I know that! But nobody ever told me what to do when the freezer goes green...</span></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We go through fresh food so slowly between just the two of us that we've become a bit dependent on our freezer. Bread, meat, frozen veggies and flavoured ice is pretty much our diet at the moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of the icy poles must have leaked because the bottom left corner of the freezer was all green. The marvellous Mr M has been saying for ages that we need to defrost it, but I didn't want our frozen food to defrost.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeiSW54wr61Gl912wnTf-uM43xzHEy8KP5B2CqRQggW-x3kZfr29pvfvRQIlHqX1jIPKmzyBxggEjwnzt4aHKtbF5wtI4XokWcUl-2Y-idWTqmfBADJrQQvFaNLkms9ITHJpZDgN8gFI/s640/blogger-image--147703273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeiSW54wr61Gl912wnTf-uM43xzHEy8KP5B2CqRQggW-x3kZfr29pvfvRQIlHqX1jIPKmzyBxggEjwnzt4aHKtbF5wtI4XokWcUl-2Y-idWTqmfBADJrQQvFaNLkms9ITHJpZDgN8gFI/s640/blogger-image--147703273.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Equipped only with a kettle, a little spade thing that came with the freezer, a bowl and a sponge, I tackled the icy green. Little did I know that boiling water would cool to freezing before melting anything. I must have used about 3L to melt away the green ice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thanks to my precious Decor Tellfresh containers, I can now store even more! I normally cut out the name and expiry date to stick inside the containers so I know what's what. It's so quick and easy. With the dumplings on the right I also cut out the cooking instructions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yay! Now I can see everything!</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-40409350449713441812014-01-22T02:12:00.001-08:002014-10-29T16:49:21.426-07:00The Power of Lazy<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">I read a quote the other day which made me smile - "Organised people are just too lazy to look for things". Having made the switch from messy to organised only recently, I can totally relate. Being organised saves time, which I guess can be called lazy, especially if you're using a Lazy Susan!</span></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>I went op-shopping with one of my sisters recently, and I came across some small Lazy Susan's for under $5 each. We received a large one as an engagement present which I had been using for our tea station, but it stuck out from the cabinet and was a bit of a hazard. So, I put the medium sized one in the tea station...<br />
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The small one in the pantry...</div>
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And used the large one to turn this messy nook into a makeup station!</div>
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Makeup</div>
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Hair ties and blush</div>
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Medicines</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-90272396650155740892014-01-15T13:39:00.000-08:002014-10-29T16:48:33.611-07:00Hidden Meal Planner<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/AVvXsEgBU2nTkGtBYdzuleXX-nLKqw7ay5MyoYwYNiDPBlXLRZcF3lpb-7tHMOcUfueJ2oxoyOtM8OMUZWJnTQHx2lRf1ILfakWrSS3581ljJesr_iJ_tQAU_SUqJN62JjlNwJ8gmmUbZ0b8YeE/s640/blogger-image--1214433434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBU2nTkGtBYdzuleXX-nLKqw7ay5MyoYwYNiDPBlXLRZcF3lpb-7tHMOcUfueJ2oxoyOtM8OMUZWJnTQHx2lRf1ILfakWrSS3581ljJesr_iJ_tQAU_SUqJN62JjlNwJ8gmmUbZ0b8YeE/s400/blogger-image--1214433434.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">I was very proud after making my very own magnetic meal planner, but hubby was concerned that it was starting to take over the entire fridge. I still can't believe I managed to hide it all behind the shopping list!</span></td></tr>
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A big shout out to Ross Vasta, whoever he is. Your free shopping list notepad is very handy! Sadly for him, I was more fond of the idea of sticking colourful magnets at the top than seeing his face everyday.</div>
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Open the front page and you find this - a mini magnetic meal planner with a maximum of three words per card. The cards were an absolute nightmare to laminate.</div>
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Before...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghP4KwYu8bb1azCwBZfDpEDW2E68HxSKew-ufflfbIfQrbmXIcDmhyphenhyphenzuqWfcYeXP_lBdfGkNT2aKO4PxBLESB97P_GP9tcwC6ap4S4jtKbZc92zUnkQBk5T4t7NGcCp-j_qhEn6RTZcmw/s640/blogger-image-844957587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv43BM4M041Ebc9LttGsBdZbhHvPBKor9uHufXlU_36AM20gg5BeQeo8dSIE74Rx1oHwkmu3czFnjYaYkRVQTcwAqR2WLJXROo_jN_JtC17G7dAagRWA4DahtubS0R4LStYvttRKc8nFY/s640/blogger-image--992483774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv43BM4M041Ebc9LttGsBdZbhHvPBKor9uHufXlU_36AM20gg5BeQeo8dSIE74Rx1oHwkmu3czFnjYaYkRVQTcwAqR2WLJXROo_jN_JtC17G7dAagRWA4DahtubS0R4LStYvttRKc8nFY/s400/blogger-image--992483774.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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After. Yeah, we broke the laminator in the process, but my dad took it apart and hubby helped him put it back together again.</div>
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Open up one more time and you see detailed descriptions of what ingredients I might need to add to my shopping list for each meal. Super strong magnets on almost every page mean I can open it up and it will attach beautifully to the fridge, then fold neatly away again once I'm finished.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-16347173123941974002014-01-14T02:33:00.001-08:002014-10-29T16:48:29.732-07:00Japanese Curry Rice<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/AVvXsEg7uHUv4epIIsIRjGyrnolttJIZoNmrWWw_tqBm2fXQ_XLxL0DVu-Ld_dZxgdH_2Htn1wRnPg9INy06EitXiiO_zWuFrb7QA3RbQMKw2SuUG2A1cCmOoMn6EtbGJocQYptPhxf87IkP8Q8/s640/blogger-image-424283218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uHUv4epIIsIRjGyrnolttJIZoNmrWWw_tqBm2fXQ_XLxL0DVu-Ld_dZxgdH_2Htn1wRnPg9INy06EitXiiO_zWuFrb7QA3RbQMKw2SuUG2A1cCmOoMn6EtbGJocQYptPhxf87IkP8Q8/s400/blogger-image-424283218.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">When asked by people in Japan, "So what's your favourite Japanese dish?" I would reply without missing a beat, "Curry rice". Then, staring at me with one eyebrow raised they would ask, "You know that's not actually Japanese, right?" Yes, I know. But this tastes SO GOOOD!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Yup, I don't know what it says either. Something in a pot and wobble the spoon. Add some water, add the curry cubes and now it's brown and hot. This could be interesting...</span></div>
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Update: I have successfully learnt to make curry paste from scratch! The ingredients are simple, the trick is to stir constantly.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-33229160301869566162014-01-13T19:36:00.001-08:002014-10-29T16:48:25.408-07:00Harry Potter Party for No Particular Reason<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nC6NaAOHi6CvY-ifXsB4JtBKw89tj2lF2U_FLihneyV_lhLnvGlfHJawNbHvLt7aNoPETzGMW_yRtqlKzgFF2S5xw9RDgYKirYtxEVr7XJUjPqudhNcrvlBpkBbndXUtGGQ-dQSPn5U/s640/blogger-image-1787827372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nC6NaAOHi6CvY-ifXsB4JtBKw89tj2lF2U_FLihneyV_lhLnvGlfHJawNbHvLt7aNoPETzGMW_yRtqlKzgFF2S5xw9RDgYKirYtxEVr7XJUjPqudhNcrvlBpkBbndXUtGGQ-dQSPn5U/s400/blogger-image-1787827372.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">My sister had been planning this Harry Potter movie marathon for a couple of days, but the creative decorations, magical food and themed music went above and beyond, creating one seriously unforgettable experience.</span></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>Most of what you see below is my sister's creation, but eventually we agreed upon calling it a team effort.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-26810318231113702492014-01-08T12:34:00.001-08:002015-03-02T20:04:37.051-08:00Chinese Restaurant Fried Rice<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/AVvXsEibU2rA5Z2ll8B2cPqUW09s8LOw2xOQT2bwwTeI5DEI3RSUkEijQxqhRY14JyEU4k-f3UNUyMdmxxT1Dmq_Y6i1EmylwBub17CUOIoLFwSHkKerX96BLPkJqkcttV-tocEP0s6HzLTTW5M/s640/blogger-image-1926699329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibU2rA5Z2ll8B2cPqUW09s8LOw2xOQT2bwwTeI5DEI3RSUkEijQxqhRY14JyEU4k-f3UNUyMdmxxT1Dmq_Y6i1EmylwBub17CUOIoLFwSHkKerX96BLPkJqkcttV-tocEP0s6HzLTTW5M/s400/blogger-image-1926699329.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">You already knew it but you were hoping it wasn't true: the secret ingredient is in fact a whole lot of oil. Fortunately, my experiment with less oil and more chicken stock was a success! Read on to find out how I made restaurant quality fried rice in less than 30 minutes!</span></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>I adapted this recipe from http://chinese.food.com/recipe/chinese-restaurant-fried-rice-142346. And by 'adapted' I mean I was <i>trying </i>to follow the recipe but for some reason that just never works out for me.</div>
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The 30 minutes assume you have some horribly dry, leftover rice from that meal you cooked three days ago. Perfect. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNdzWCqHBDy7NUUZ3jWt7qgoSQKEvqzNLIkmimzOjfsR2ajqmahCVv4gXI6kmhQNG7tG3lMkHS72g4CnYwElanZerZE-9-Xjd8BeTss4JQGJnxJ6kqN5dDvTdVhrm-W_lA_6cM9ZbTGs/s640/blogger-image-1108366101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNdzWCqHBDy7NUUZ3jWt7qgoSQKEvqzNLIkmimzOjfsR2ajqmahCVv4gXI6kmhQNG7tG3lMkHS72g4CnYwElanZerZE-9-Xjd8BeTss4JQGJnxJ6kqN5dDvTdVhrm-W_lA_6cM9ZbTGs/s320/blogger-image-1108366101.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Food.com recommends cooking the egg first. Considering my hubby is a tad fussy with the way his eggs are cooked (a.k.a the yellow and white never mix!), this worked out well. Cook the egg and put it aside for later. If I'd followed the recipe here and cooked my veggies now it might have saved me steaming them in the end.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNdzWCqHBDy7NUUZ3jWt7qgoSQKEvqzNLIkmimzOjfsR2ajqmahCVv4gXI6kmhQNG7tG3lMkHS72g4CnYwElanZerZE-9-Xjd8BeTss4JQGJnxJ6kqN5dDvTdVhrm-W_lA_6cM9ZbTGs/s640/blogger-image-1108366101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgVSrJPafTqi-pbgQ3krNc1IN1OzzX8uheRyL-iI9vJaHfimFs9rXEZg1E2AoXWcI0W3rFXE8SdTU3xioC_70hUM22PVeXI8OwBiyyP7hQrlMm2ECVq_g0TRlP3IHJ89qItBuouapEpQ/s640/blogger-image-2104634237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgVSrJPafTqi-pbgQ3krNc1IN1OzzX8uheRyL-iI9vJaHfimFs9rXEZg1E2AoXWcI0W3rFXE8SdTU3xioC_70hUM22PVeXI8OwBiyyP7hQrlMm2ECVq_g0TRlP3IHJ89qItBuouapEpQ/s320/blogger-image-2104634237.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The recipe says that next you should fry your dry rice in oil before adding the chicken stock. Presumably if I had followed the recipe like I did the first time I made it, the rice would now be brown. Instead, it still looks pretty white, but it is starting to look a bit more alive. Things really start happening when I add the chicken stock. It is my personal opinion that <i>this </i>is the real secret ingredient. It makes the rice beautifully fluffy and flavoursome. Next, chuck all your bits and pieces in (including the sauce which I also forgot...)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjII16x2O8BMqVH4DVjr5FNYVWTF87qdftJITc9MP1nCCPdyaHBnGyEGQGMtVsq3xdbdyw9d7kOsTD0KqA504zvBCgF09isH4d3xGeFfrhMbpcpkOFBv0I9NqHgy8c79Z1kEx4gXBKn0s/s640/blogger-image--419433718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjII16x2O8BMqVH4DVjr5FNYVWTF87qdftJITc9MP1nCCPdyaHBnGyEGQGMtVsq3xdbdyw9d7kOsTD0KqA504zvBCgF09isH4d3xGeFfrhMbpcpkOFBv0I9NqHgy8c79Z1kEx4gXBKn0s/s320/blogger-image--419433718.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And todah! Yummy though slightly less oily (or saucy) restaurant fried rice.</div>
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I know, I don't follow recipes. But if you do I guarantee it will taste delicious! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-26448248255346932482013-12-29T00:53:00.001-08:002014-10-29T16:48:01.796-07:00My pavlova recipe<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil0ErUPLYQeVN1EolfLiRHmNDnUgxpZP5jNpOPI3qXLF2EoUsbvJ3x-9UkiwfQ0MfC5sPxmuz6iv9x_3OZ7FYLFct6SgjmzYBmAspFQhg4yyU4vv_o957qvwlBxxLTBRBax-WTtSBf3Wo/s640/blogger-image-579531691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Sometimes when I'm cooking, my creativity gets the best of me. Like the time I decided to improvise ingredients for a pavlova and used brown sugar instead of white. Yeah, the burnt toffee that resulted got chucked pretty quickly. But don't worry! If you follow this recipe and use the ingredients listed, you should have something much, much tastier. Really! It's easier than you think.</span></td></tr>
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Essential tip: you really need an electric whisk for this, one of the ones you can leave on and walk away is even better.</div>
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Disclaimer: this is definitely not healthy, but it is VERY yummy!</div>
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Ingredients:</div>
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4 egg whites</div>
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1 cup white sugar</div>
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2 teaspoons corn flour</div>
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1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar</div>
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Cream & fruit to serve</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjQ_yQi5ezBC4_PO3ocI_cxYwJBSiqvBdpOnbhaQX0x5DdcrtjULQLYVX-qQ5Bpe2PS5pjLG6mVAEtoIdZD8mN9Sqw3sNJmtbc03xJLjsmM_JrpFt3ZWpodhfh6B6yuQjwPPJR9TqUrg/s640/blogger-image-1381622333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjQ_yQi5ezBC4_PO3ocI_cxYwJBSiqvBdpOnbhaQX0x5DdcrtjULQLYVX-qQ5Bpe2PS5pjLG6mVAEtoIdZD8mN9Sqw3sNJmtbc03xJLjsmM_JrpFt3ZWpodhfh6B6yuQjwPPJR9TqUrg/s640/blogger-image-1381622333.jpg" /></a></div>
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Method:</div>
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1. Preheat oven to 150 degrees on convection. (Turn down to 120 before putting in)</div>
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2. Beat egg whites with electric mixer until white peaks form (5 minutes)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJfAed1Zda4QZRlK9RNAUi-4F9bDrXGrSWE8U8Rm8Hw4uxh1g4-hDxQUBQ3I3A12sg82CHCuf2fn2g2lE7XKcqfjsTSCaO9fg4l89rVGlbIniKnIayCWduzx2DkAxF6NcniD-e4FnbD8/s640/blogger-image-109106053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJfAed1Zda4QZRlK9RNAUi-4F9bDrXGrSWE8U8Rm8Hw4uxh1g4-hDxQUBQ3I3A12sg82CHCuf2fn2g2lE7XKcqfjsTSCaO9fg4l89rVGlbIniKnIayCWduzx2DkAxF6NcniD-e4FnbD8/s640/blogger-image-109106053.jpg" /></a></div>
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3. Gradually add in sugar and keep mixing</div>
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4. Sift in corn flour and lemon juice. Mix for 10-15 minutes until mixture is glossy and hard looking. You know it's ready when you can tip the mixing bowl upside down without it falling out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZeK_SZeYRhLA3APMlhL4G_c-YjnLwGC74lIWHmGnWZee9ZAGgoHqnRJV8UTruKvaLwXt04Asd8gl1SucImEEiWoZ2dFCllApxMUYDgxT1nhOVWFHEMLYafdnbXbqLQqLs3GdRtHAwqs/s640/blogger-image--1402077571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZeK_SZeYRhLA3APMlhL4G_c-YjnLwGC74lIWHmGnWZee9ZAGgoHqnRJV8UTruKvaLwXt04Asd8gl1SucImEEiWoZ2dFCllApxMUYDgxT1nhOVWFHEMLYafdnbXbqLQqLs3GdRtHAwqs/s640/blogger-image--1402077571.jpg" /></a></div>
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5. Lay out some baking paper on a tray. Spoon mixture on tray into the desired shape. Leave a small hollow in the middle for toppings.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7f4wN9c3dHhafojWLkpLYmkO5Ay-XwZcxwjZTG3SRS8VVp60wprCN6n2b4y54ikvVKsabNsW7fESoidOmy6xv9BZb0hCt9KQZJbAGVPlxDWh4SWl2CkGh9ixq3j02Ad61OnXgPy1h410/s640/blogger-image-1949944283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7f4wN9c3dHhafojWLkpLYmkO5Ay-XwZcxwjZTG3SRS8VVp60wprCN6n2b4y54ikvVKsabNsW7fESoidOmy6xv9BZb0hCt9KQZJbAGVPlxDWh4SWl2CkGh9ixq3j02Ad61OnXgPy1h410/s640/blogger-image-1949944283.jpg" /></a></div>
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6. Turn oven down to 120 degrees then place tray in oven.</div>
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7. Cook for 1.25-1.5 hours or until outside is crunchy.</div>
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8. Leave in oven with oven door slightly ajar until cooled.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFwgRSbL9-yLT-SIEleQWZ47xW5jeLPCvnzFu5HQRsyQbEapRebYzI7QKDclLOb0PmBcZ3obda0IJ3PIyDLRCU6VxxvEaMCZt27SzynzOaGTaM3mGX5yTweYg50tYGfP_o4lBlsAPEY4/s640/blogger-image-1767113590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFwgRSbL9-yLT-SIEleQWZ47xW5jeLPCvnzFu5HQRsyQbEapRebYzI7QKDclLOb0PmBcZ3obda0IJ3PIyDLRCU6VxxvEaMCZt27SzynzOaGTaM3mGX5yTweYg50tYGfP_o4lBlsAPEY4/s640/blogger-image-1767113590.jpg" /></a></div>
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9. Top with whipped cream and fruit. Serve :-)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktr0Juuva7RC1e61hqWW5Cz102QcQX50qcPEJe882uhbge-R1-eoLzhGX_qDGwW4sv_pw7oxtBoN6YLat4Eb9iv_4odw_ReFd8oTyozgdxDFSxMDXvWnOPZm60ex5yOvCCsrMJtElT18/s640/blogger-image--646533262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktr0Juuva7RC1e61hqWW5Cz102QcQX50qcPEJe882uhbge-R1-eoLzhGX_qDGwW4sv_pw7oxtBoN6YLat4Eb9iv_4odw_ReFd8oTyozgdxDFSxMDXvWnOPZm60ex5yOvCCsrMJtElT18/s640/blogger-image--646533262.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Don't forget to clean up gooey pavlova spray! (Okay, that might just be me. Taking photos while making pavlova is not recommended)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Note: the longer you leave it, the harder it is to get off. But warm water and a cloth should do the trick.</span></div>
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Show me some photos when you've tried it!</div>
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For a <b>word only recipe</b> to follow while cooking, see below (printing is recommended)</div>
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1. Preheat oven to 150 degrees on convection. (Turn down to 120 before putting in)</div>
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2. Beat egg whites with electric mixer until white peaks form (5 minutes)</div>
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3. Gradually add in sugar and keep mixing</div>
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4. Sift in corn flour and lemon juice. Mix for 10-15 minutes until mixture is glossy and hard looking. You know it's ready when you can tip the mixing bowl upside down without it falling out.</div>
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5. Lay out some baking paper on a tray. Spoon mixture on tray into the desired shape. Leave a small hollow in the middle for toppings.</div>
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6. Turn oven down to 120 degrees then place tray in oven.</div>
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7. Cook for 1.25-1.5 hours or until outside is crunchy.</div>
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8. Leave in oven with oven door slightly ajar until cooled.</div>
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9. Top with whipped cream and fruit. Serve :-)</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-59051026710147039832013-12-29T00:50:00.001-08:002014-11-12T12:34:07.624-08:0020 minute pamper routine<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ip-vqOZzqJ0Rwi6_GxHBBJr3Q5uDuRTlbFkcEfNkN8Tl8KdGMvDa8JhhptgJXlIggPH9RuezudhQDn6S9WRbeEJYuu3gu7fqHe0wHJ4S-puOVoU9mr5PoKspCXhnQAJSqQJDWyqTsxM/s640/blogger-image-1379661715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ip-vqOZzqJ0Rwi6_GxHBBJr3Q5uDuRTlbFkcEfNkN8Tl8KdGMvDa8JhhptgJXlIggPH9RuezudhQDn6S9WRbeEJYuu3gu7fqHe0wHJ4S-puOVoU9mr5PoKspCXhnQAJSqQJDWyqTsxM/s400/blogger-image-1379661715.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">You come home from a rough day at work and all you want to do is collapse on the couch. Trouble is, there's that dinner party you promised you'd be at. No relaxing for you, right? Wrong.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrHJwAxbfDiuHolOvI6BN7qQamWYbnA4lrY-CKbuAeEmbD8fh5z8LOM5izYoJsqLUKWdCysx37C48_ZUIo5YJDZdxCVYHufQm6gTfjO-ivSj50NwXeRdqpZQkWFbXlogwvNvFe9TlZA0/s1600/blogger-image-106695141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrHJwAxbfDiuHolOvI6BN7qQamWYbnA4lrY-CKbuAeEmbD8fh5z8LOM5izYoJsqLUKWdCysx37C48_ZUIo5YJDZdxCVYHufQm6gTfjO-ivSj50NwXeRdqpZQkWFbXlogwvNvFe9TlZA0/s320/blogger-image-106695141.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><br />
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<b>Summer ingredients:</b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A quiet space to be alone with a bit of natural light and a cool breeze</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Bath/foot spa/bucket to put your feet in comfortably filled with cold water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Peppermint foot fizz</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Jazz* 15 minute playlist </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Scented candles</span></div>
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Fresh garden flowers<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A comfy seat/pillow for your head</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Body lotion/moisturiser</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A cool, fresh face mask lotion</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Icy lemonade</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnUMaU6z282O-kTNBhHwgmrp6-ZwwU3-SSQVO7Xd_srIBOI8MUxBqXOcAhy6ah6NwCoYjIWQRzZS7UZ1VluJyBHcf8OSKMfbdTzSLtgrrGo98swhdd9RAg0ScjDDDATSiXWBIbtKPZMk/s1600/blogger-image-731809109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnUMaU6z282O-kTNBhHwgmrp6-ZwwU3-SSQVO7Xd_srIBOI8MUxBqXOcAhy6ah6NwCoYjIWQRzZS7UZ1VluJyBHcf8OSKMfbdTzSLtgrrGo98swhdd9RAg0ScjDDDATSiXWBIbtKPZMk/s320/blogger-image-731809109.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Winter ingredients:</b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A quiet space to be alone - towels or bath mats on the floor will help keep in the warmth</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Bath/foot spa/bucket to put your feet in comfortably, filled with hot water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Bubble bath</span></div>
<div>
Muscle soothing body wash</div>
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Classical* 15 minute playlist<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Scented candles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A comfy seat/pillow for your head</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Body lotion/moisturiser</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A wet towel fresh out of the microwave</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A mug of hot chocolate with mini marshmallows</span></div>
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<b>How to relax:</b><br />
1. While the tub is filling up, put the music on, light the candles and make yourself a drink. </div>
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2. Pour some bath crystals in and soak away while sipping your delicious beverage and pampering your face with a cucumber mask or warm towel. </div>
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3. Give yourself plenty of time to finish your drink, then pat yourself dry and rub in some body lotion. </div>
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4. Put some slippers on and continue resting comfortably for another 5 minutes until sufficiently content. </div>
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5. Smile and keep smiling while you continue on your way, on time :-)</div>
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<div>
* you can play whatever music you like, but trying new genres of music, especially instrumental, may help you relax just as well if not better!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-87170543941444402122013-02-16T12:37:00.000-08:002014-11-12T12:35:35.860-08:00Scrapyard Time Machine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnlpGeq0w1EFvAL8ujNoEM61DG5ODpS_YSeepKYHGDDC-4-4T_hL3z1tLCDoRPDO9pr-gkhmDXuHnCPnZqWGAeh7AIJP0cm505RZ1dBV8a8czUHgjHSSzUu1JvoM1Q-g9UYT80mDQzNQW/s1600/blog+design+time+machine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnlpGeq0w1EFvAL8ujNoEM61DG5ODpS_YSeepKYHGDDC-4-4T_hL3z1tLCDoRPDO9pr-gkhmDXuHnCPnZqWGAeh7AIJP0cm505RZ1dBV8a8czUHgjHSSzUu1JvoM1Q-g9UYT80mDQzNQW/s400/blog+design+time+machine.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It might not happen to everybody, but I just woke up one morning convinced I was meant to build a time machine.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>The idea was to build an opening contraption that would "bring" ancient artefacts from the Bible to our Sunday school room for the kids to play with. The idea sounded great, but whenever one of my ideas involves words like "build", they generally require a lot of help from my now husband, the marvellous and very handy Mr M. Already the task looked impossible, as Mr M had just come out of his second round of chemo, and he had the bald head to show for it! Despite that, I somehow managed hims to help me build a time machine.<br />
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Step one was to find a base. As I try to be as thrifty as possible, I did not want to spend a lot of money on this project. So I prayed, "God, if you want me to build this time machine, please provide a base for it, preferably under $5". Satisfied that only the miraculous would further drag me into this huge project, I put it to the back of my mind and carried on with life. That is, until one day I was scouring <a href="http://gumtree.com.au/">Gumtree.com.au</a> and I came across two black bookshelves for sale. They looked perfect! It was a bit of a drive away on the other side of town, but I looked at the price: five dollars. It was like a neon sign was flashing above my head saying "Amy, build a time machine!"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJcPSEbJb1nVqZU4yOSY9qyZyPwf_jHAtjNnNXZ7G4FtUmGK8QUAXEWIoiqu4zHZhmhq97lvwzbXJtrm5S3gRAaCOGI7iTydsmJ-WrvYtZIptc9qq2msCNW9U7MxnIxcafXshphO-ffSa/s1600/IMG_4604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJcPSEbJb1nVqZU4yOSY9qyZyPwf_jHAtjNnNXZ7G4FtUmGK8QUAXEWIoiqu4zHZhmhq97lvwzbXJtrm5S3gRAaCOGI7iTydsmJ-WrvYtZIptc9qq2msCNW9U7MxnIxcafXshphO-ffSa/s320/IMG_4604.JPG" width="263" /></a></div>
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I picked up the bookshelves and took them to the house we were sharing with Mr M's parents. Soon their patio became a junkyard as I collected every gadget, gizmo and broken household object I could get my hands on. At least, I'm pretty sure the vacuum cleaner was broken...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikwg9-Rw_6bdzqn7-1_WC8upzBQSid0R63PvxWh0kLUDY0m_gJflYFYaQCbTKNdMdY7NccjB-HJGEkyCEKUiccas2vg_ftTI8AiP0Zj24hZTA_-Okex-9s17t2GJNRetksik2usH0FzAQ5/s1600/IMG_4605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikwg9-Rw_6bdzqn7-1_WC8upzBQSid0R63PvxWh0kLUDY0m_gJflYFYaQCbTKNdMdY7NccjB-HJGEkyCEKUiccas2vg_ftTI8AiP0Zj24hZTA_-Okex-9s17t2GJNRetksik2usH0FzAQ5/s320/IMG_4605.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Some things were easy to get apart, like the timed bell from an old game. Others, like the food processor and the vacuum cleaner, took hours. I think I could have saved a whole week if I had used a nuclear missile to blow up the vacuum cleaner, but even then it might have stayed in tact!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLOFM6nkF-PaJw1M90wTw62RFHSuV1WzWdJFd-M-tG0YEWbheVQI3Pkp5GoTUWj7-ti4O7ALO9aVPFYIFGDx6lsmNAFsKjdvOn5jgaMiSAqIIf4JpvpJL4EIkrcBqqNn3et5PGI2sbYnc0/s1600/IMG_4606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLOFM6nkF-PaJw1M90wTw62RFHSuV1WzWdJFd-M-tG0YEWbheVQI3Pkp5GoTUWj7-ti4O7ALO9aVPFYIFGDx6lsmNAFsKjdvOn5jgaMiSAqIIf4JpvpJL4EIkrcBqqNn3et5PGI2sbYnc0/s320/IMG_4606.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mr M was in charge of teaching me how to use power tools and pulling apart the radio. Anything we found that could be played with was an added bonus. We took the buttons off a fan, the cord reel from the vacuum cleaner and the cassette drive from an old head unit. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIEJyk_4uPrnouIr18QsHMBMyBiYgIf-WRX1zg0RZDfIxv7sabKmL-qlPduNmOtARYpI3LkUL81iAXuknW5lCucO214eFf8lDO47SNNfcffRtTyqSBSJ0GptFzYXZmnELMSO3uy_x0usp-/s1600/IMG_4610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIEJyk_4uPrnouIr18QsHMBMyBiYgIf-WRX1zg0RZDfIxv7sabKmL-qlPduNmOtARYpI3LkUL81iAXuknW5lCucO214eFf8lDO47SNNfcffRtTyqSBSJ0GptFzYXZmnELMSO3uy_x0usp-/s320/IMG_4610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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On the top of the time machine were the controls: an old keyboard painted black with a few bright colours, some plastic guttering from the garage, an old clock and a joystick we picked up along with a whole box of bits and pieces from the local dump shop for $5. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOimDeICspayZAfD9YEHx0N5XBmSVOR7EAzhW2cRpMVXU7RGyAGpCyJUfj5UIwHSHX33K8Abqech40sAoJk2_ouDFVG8D2N0DW4yMre_ZGBZQ7sF-lrwWzsoRMF0NDKA5BOCGloqAFHJZ/s1600/IMG_4624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOimDeICspayZAfD9YEHx0N5XBmSVOR7EAzhW2cRpMVXU7RGyAGpCyJUfj5UIwHSHX33K8Abqech40sAoJk2_ouDFVG8D2N0DW4yMre_ZGBZQ7sF-lrwWzsoRMF0NDKA5BOCGloqAFHJZ/s320/IMG_4624.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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By the time we had drilled, glued and nailed everything down, it was looking mighty impressive. I even had a few spare moments to clean up the huge mess I was happily making. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">When the parents-in-law had visitors, they would point with both pride and confusion at the contraption coming together out the back. The occasional brave soul would press a few buttons and turn the key which revealed the hollow space inside where "artefacts" would appear.</span></div>
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After weeks of hard work, the time machine was finished. I was more proud of this collection of junk than I had been of any previous creation I had ever made. Perhaps that was because this time machine was the first project I had taken on with my new husband. It signified the great things we could accomplish together, chemo or no chemo.</div>
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An honest review: </h4>
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The time machine immediately captured the imagination of the young boys at Sunday school. The pushed and turned and pulled and had a wonderful time. However, when the grand opening came, and the fog machine turned on inside and the timer rang and the door slowly opened, weighed down by a pulley system of old power boxes no less, a very unexpected thing happened: a little girl started to cry. Some of the boys started to cough and complain about the smoke. Other children had their hands over their ears and were rocking back and forth. What a disaster, the children were <i>scared</i>! I was devastated. Mr M and I had worked nonstop for weeks to have the time machine ready, and the kids were <i>crying</i>! </div>
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I made a few more half hearted attempts to use the time machine over the next six months, and there was less coughing and crying after I took away the smoke machine. However, the kids seemed to like it better when it was not in use. The boys continued to poke and spin and twist and yank until eventually the time machine was an obvious safety hazard and we had to take it home. It sat in the garage for months until I finally decided it was time to let it go. I put it on the sidewalk with a sign saying "Free" and another sign saying "Play with me". </div>
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I thought that was the end of the story, but one day I noticed the time machine was back in the garage. Turns out my dad thought it too precious to leave in the rain. I smiled, thinking about the hot summer days spent undoing screws and pulling phones apart. Even as I write this post, I wonder if God had a different plan in mind than what I saw in the near future. I mean, after all, it brought Mr M and I closer together, and now I know how to use power tools! So, even though this project was not a huge success at church, I am still glad I obeyed what I thought God was telling me to do, and I am still secretly proud that I have a time machine in my garage. Do you?</div>
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Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-56618967542064246772012-12-01T21:28:00.000-08:002014-11-12T12:33:43.932-08:00Wedding in a week - Budget Shabby Chic<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #45818e;">"Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are moving the wedding date forward. Don't suppose you are free tomorrow?"</span> </i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Yup, you can imagine the responses we got to that one!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Okay, so we had a few more days
notice than our guests (2 to be precise). Not to mention the four months of
dress shopping, Googling and daydreaming I had done since the proposal in
August. The time pressure did cause us to go over our $5000 budget, but we also
discovered lots of ways to save money too (obviously hoping you take more away
from the latter). Not to mention the choices we made helped move a whole
wedding more than a month forward! Before I get ahead of myself, let's start at
the beginning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Once upon a time, beautiful weddings cost more than a house deposit...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My advice, go for the house
deposit. We didn't have enough for a house deposit, let alone a fancy wedding,
but I didn't want something fancy anyway. Check out these challenges we
overcame with a little bit of creativity that saved us a bucket load and change
the date at the last second!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Challenge 1. What to Wear</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Like I said, I'm not big on fancy.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxAQeZV99rOSnDuNFlOJzc5QiOtv64aHe5G-tYT-yDSDuqS74rqn1l_dnAuyNqSTB-735W2mWcQgE1zM-f8HWhrgKQ0wm-oe0vwGbZ-JbP9AkHJ2iFqI2wUyReioIRINNzgi2ai22WV2Q/s640/blogger-image-1122881862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxAQeZV99rOSnDuNFlOJzc5QiOtv64aHe5G-tYT-yDSDuqS74rqn1l_dnAuyNqSTB-735W2mWcQgE1zM-f8HWhrgKQ0wm-oe0vwGbZ-JbP9AkHJ2iFqI2wUyReioIRINNzgi2ai22WV2Q/s320/blogger-image-1122881862.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The dress?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I got it from a second hand store with a double digit price tag that would make your jaw drop. And it looked <i>gorgeous.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Jewellery?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The tiara I ordered didn't arrive in time due to the date change so we went out and bought a matching set from Diva. Again, double digits for the set.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Shoes? </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge20axvt6J7Iyqh7DLJgACx60UFMGGgNHDergOMmFMvzXKyDIteDsn8NL3vzbps1qGDCoSJBDHm9FLH2vlnFfUD8QuzybNJrOF8nHZLfIm3-xFOXaw_bWH5M00CBUS7LC9DccPw7bEZXs/s640/blogger-image-995272022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge20axvt6J7Iyqh7DLJgACx60UFMGGgNHDergOMmFMvzXKyDIteDsn8NL3vzbps1qGDCoSJBDHm9FLH2vlnFfUD8QuzybNJrOF8nHZLfIm3-xFOXaw_bWH5M00CBUS7LC9DccPw7bEZXs/s320/blogger-image-995272022.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Yeah, well, I never wear shoes anyway. And the marvellous Mr M was quite keen on the idea of being a barefoot bridegroom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The bouquet?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Another miracle really. On such short notice, we decided to look at the flowers they sell in
Woolies. You know, the type you buy your wife on your way home from
work? (If you don't, you totally should). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It was late afternoon and all
the good flowers were already gone, but a little florist had just opened
up next door. When we asked about getting a custom wedding bouquet by
the next day, the florist nearly had a fit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">But as she was composing
herself, my eye caught a little white bucket filled with beautiful
rosebuds and ribbons with decorative ladybugs pinned on them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Not only
that, they were totally in our double digit price range! The florist
nearly had another fit when I told her I'd take two. "For a <i>wedding</i>?" she scoffed. Don't be sucked in, ladies and gentlemen. Traditions can be broken!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Challenge 2: The venue </span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Having an indoor option is important incase of bad weather on the day, but we wanted an outdoor venue. After looking at a number of options, including expensive wedding venues and public parks, we decided that having it in this wild and beautiful backyard would be perfect. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHU2a7YdrC-MInrBU5jvi6fwsyspfFfrEH0RHOz6rHs8mcIbJlV45gd8PkJufPEgJQdcvSsmwcG_l4kfWejbHNz3qqe8g5rXPMc71ObK4V4nVix95yNuuRZxZHBOqyTUUBSIcW3dvgIU/s640/blogger-image--517846472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHU2a7YdrC-MInrBU5jvi6fwsyspfFfrEH0RHOz6rHs8mcIbJlV45gd8PkJufPEgJQdcvSsmwcG_l4kfWejbHNz3qqe8g5rXPMc71ObK4V4nVix95yNuuRZxZHBOqyTUUBSIcW3dvgIU/s320/blogger-image--517846472.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Fortunately, our friends who own the property were more than willing to host the event, and even help pull out the weeds and get the place all dressed up!<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Money saved on venue: $1000+</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Time and energy spent on cleaning it up: a LOT (but if you are happy with the overgrown look, it would still have looked amazing)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A word of caution, if <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">you have an outdoor wedding, especially in a strapless dress, WEAR SUNSCREEN! I know it's the last thing on your mind when you are zipping up your wedding dress or buttoning up your tux, but unless you want to go on your honeymoon red as a tomato and wincing with every step, </span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><u>WEAR SUNSCREEN</u></i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Challenge 3: Decorations</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Mostly donated, handmade, collected or bought at the dollar store, the decorations were absolutely magical. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The blue bottles were soda water bottles collected by a friend of mine from a church event</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The flowers in the bottles were from spotlight and came in bundles of 10 for $10</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The white heart was brought home by my mum</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The hanging vine ball was borrowed from someone at her work.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKk5MHdolWztHsnR5wi6WdGZdlvabcrsNofdeiw4vwUM29fL3FVOECVlWRGP7S2sN0PRSspDoGAI0BIA8gjjAlwpTukdPF0h0xrgBJfAv-nxWdc62OeKrlO9o5Ca0JkSHecePLDCwWnc/s640/blogger-image-2063990956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKk5MHdolWztHsnR5wi6WdGZdlvabcrsNofdeiw4vwUM29fL3FVOECVlWRGP7S2sN0PRSspDoGAI0BIA8gjjAlwpTukdPF0h0xrgBJfAv-nxWdc62OeKrlO9o5Ca0JkSHecePLDCwWnc/s320/blogger-image-2063990956.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">These banners were a personal favourite of mine, maybe because I made them and got to choose what they said. They were so easy to make, too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I had a bunch of potato sacks left over from a sack race at my 18th, and I think we bought some more from the pet store (apparently they get used as dog beds). I cut out a triangle template from a cardboard box and traced it so they'd all be roughly the same size. I then printed the alphabet in a huge size and a font that I liked as a reference point. The letters were drawn with black sharpie pens. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I went through at least three of them because the material was pretty rough, but it showed up a lot clearer and was easier to work with than paint.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXHIeYeg5xRD0qULJULUe-zZFFWlDm6Ce8OxH2ckLDhyphenhyphenPIe8rxQhou4L6RWqTr5m3JWObYFlcfCkkdV-jntVTAgU9dPhw8572lJSLLx6dJR2IsvtmJfxkXQz6pDLWh6GDgvCXf5Qc4Y0/s640/blogger-image-60213074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXHIeYeg5xRD0qULJULUe-zZFFWlDm6Ce8OxH2ckLDhyphenhyphenPIe8rxQhou4L6RWqTr5m3JWObYFlcfCkkdV-jntVTAgU9dPhw8572lJSLLx6dJR2IsvtmJfxkXQz6pDLWh6GDgvCXf5Qc4Y0/s320/blogger-image-60213074.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This hanging jar was never meant to have a branch in it. I only discovered later while looking through the photo album that what was meant to be a visual example of "this is the sort of branch gumnuts are found on and I want the jar full of gumnuts", ended up hung up exactly how I had left it and photographed as a unique masterpiece by almost every camera at the wedding!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><i>Challenge 4: The Aisle</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Despite the best efforts by all our wonderful helpers, the ground was still pretty rough. And like I mentioned before, I wasn't wearing shoes. The roll of hessian that we ended up buying was pretty pricey (contact me to buy it!) but we were sort of running out of time to find a cheaper option. It looked fabulous, and it all felt so natural.<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAD5XwnW6aIi5zlJI4UIuU5wVjBM3G63IwUbjnSVnWUn9HnpgWPVwqlYwGPDbff4T0CTKWsbZ2sD4etfNgB_akHnKyuG3sSoTb9Vqkj8QxK5biGUfiWBO4ZSeiBp4OjgngnB7911OpGog/s640/blogger-image--1864239916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAD5XwnW6aIi5zlJI4UIuU5wVjBM3G63IwUbjnSVnWUn9HnpgWPVwqlYwGPDbff4T0CTKWsbZ2sD4etfNgB_akHnKyuG3sSoTb9Vqkj8QxK5biGUfiWBO4ZSeiBp4OjgngnB7911OpGog/s320/blogger-image--1864239916.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The pot plants that lined the aisle were borrowed from someone at my mum's work who had just had a shabby chic themed event. Totally convenient! This day definitely couldn't have happened without the incredibly selfless generosity of everyone involved.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Challenge 5: The Food</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Our families, with the help of their friends and their friends' friends, put together an amazing banquet of deliciously tasty treats for morning tea. Not that I got to eat any of it of course because we were off in fairyland taking photos (I would recommend you try and get in at least one cupcake and a few friendly conversations before leaving for photos). </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ORqWZ_QKYB2ZOsq_AZQl_7nbsfq_8c8HxhRyONqSuJ4_u6944bIKGtNDH4yaCS2mj2KASy8Im5Ja4DE6qTGmZ8elCTUooP5OUDNFSpGQjPk4-BWCt_An5K7BsdgfzfV7tzeNxxnCb4c/s640/blogger-image--1050899606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ORqWZ_QKYB2ZOsq_AZQl_7nbsfq_8c8HxhRyONqSuJ4_u6944bIKGtNDH4yaCS2mj2KASy8Im5Ja4DE6qTGmZ8elCTUooP5OUDNFSpGQjPk4-BWCt_An5K7BsdgfzfV7tzeNxxnCb4c/s320/blogger-image--1050899606.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The cake was supposed to be made by a relative, but he lives overseas and the sudden change of dates kind of spoiled that plan. But the little $10 pack of cupcakes with the pink and blue flowers totally worked with the colour scheme and no one seemed to mind. The cake is all gone in 10 minutes anyway. Seriously consider how important it is to you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><i>Other Rules We Broke and Last Minute Tips:</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>Morning Wedding with no dinner reception</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It was lovely to have everyone stay just for morning tea. We had lunch on the way to our last minute honeymoon!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>No formality (except the legal stuff)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The wedding dress code was semi-formal, we weren't wearing shoes and we did a star jump in the middle of the ceremony!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>No invitations or thankyou cards</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The friend who designed them was gracious enough not to charge us since she hadn't made them yet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>No favours</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sorry guests! But I wasn't planning on doing them anyway, and no one complained.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>No alcohol </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Huge money saver! Fortunately neither of our families drink.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>Potpourri for the flower girl</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Instead of fresh rose petals which cost a fortune, we picked up a pack of potpourri and a white bucket from the dollar store. Note: if you don't have shoes on, try not to step on them...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>Last minute change in pastor</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The original pastor couldn't make it so a friend led the ceremony and my grandpa (ordained minister) made it official.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Last minute change in Maid of Honour</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The original maid of honour was overseas but a wonderful friend stepped in and, being the only bridesmaid, picked and bought her own dress.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>We didn't throw the bouquet</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It was in a bucket, so someone would have been knocked out for sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Honestly I was so happy to be marrying Mr M, I hardly remember doing anything else!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><i>Final thoughts:</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If the cake is important to you, go all out. If you really want it in that cathedral in the city, save your money for that. For us, we were advised to put our money on the photographer, and I would absolutely have to agree. The amazing photos above of the wedding day were taken by Special Memories Photography. She even went the extra mile and photoshopped out of half the photos a random cardboard box we accidentally left behind the altar! If you live in Queensland, you should definitely check out her website.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.smphotography.com.au/index.html." target="_blank">http://www.smphotography.com.au/index.html.</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I also want to give a shout out to the folks at Dollar Store Crafts for being able to sum up my advice in a single sentence, and I quote, "Spend money on things you think are important". Check out their page.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2010/05/how-to-have-a-dollar-store-wedding/" target="_blank">http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2010/05/how-to-have-a-dollar-store-wedding/</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">At the end of the day, your wedding day <i>will</i> be memorable. You'll hang photos of it on the walls and tell stories about it, maybe even to your grandchildren. But it's not the price tag that will make it memorable, and it's not the fancy wedding cake that you are committing to spend the rest of your life with. My one prayer for you is that your marriage will be the real fairytale you work towards, no matter the cost.</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-71555603263503398082012-03-04T19:48:00.000-08:002015-03-04T20:08:25.711-08:00The Best Currency Exchange Rates In History<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My family travelled a lot when I was growing up. It started with Hong Kong, then China, then all the way around Asia to Europe and even the Middle East! But in all my travelling, never did I find a currency exchange quite like this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am quite into foreign currency, and I even started my own foreign coin collection, which now represents over 42 different countries.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45q4gvPClzNMxXEo9X3-QDVkZDS7_bP1Z8oP5cOEYLlcPEUFYIoQLCjXkBnEeu3QowK2IQer2yvzzIwiuZpOv1RbhDLQJH9Ryp0rkOW6S2yg0d0_5n7sUJPOOPfU1Ft-QEJJbq3x2gDCi/s1600/10998253_10152730400787828_7934611360535247876_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45q4gvPClzNMxXEo9X3-QDVkZDS7_bP1Z8oP5cOEYLlcPEUFYIoQLCjXkBnEeu3QowK2IQer2yvzzIwiuZpOv1RbhDLQJH9Ryp0rkOW6S2yg0d0_5n7sUJPOOPfU1Ft-QEJJbq3x2gDCi/s1600/10998253_10152730400787828_7934611360535247876_o.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Of course, the currency rate I am talking about is not with foreign coins, or even any coins at all. It is the currency of Jesus, who is so big I have seen the impact of his love and victory in every country I have visited.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here is something I made to represent the good gifts Jesus has promised us in the Bible. Feel free to look up the verses to find out more. You can use this link and search at <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=jeremiah+31%3A13&version=NLT" target="_blank">Biblegateway.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFs_LpxLgUWNTlS7xAJE-cVDKUUQupv59_-6TJ6yKVOSW9T0wtrNRWKTWeX1tNPzGk6MmoQhEGDWUhNw_NV-z-tTgp8a7-OwIHReHLLzFe11caaMoHakHLGZ9kjt-0O0Zwnxv5TyVHDbZv/s1600/The+Great+Exchange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFs_LpxLgUWNTlS7xAJE-cVDKUUQupv59_-6TJ6yKVOSW9T0wtrNRWKTWeX1tNPzGk6MmoQhEGDWUhNw_NV-z-tTgp8a7-OwIHReHLLzFe11caaMoHakHLGZ9kjt-0O0Zwnxv5TyVHDbZv/s1600/The+Great+Exchange.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Feel free to share! If you have a story about how Jesus has turned your life around for the better, I would love to read about it in the comments below. God bless!</span></div>
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16516704990899210103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571944277479673118.post-69255453109870991592010-11-10T22:10:00.000-08:002015-03-02T21:06:22.071-08:00Freebies coming Subscribe to be notified!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0