tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14288020860334135002024-02-19T09:08:29.286-08:00Being MamaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-18703513585759746422016-05-03T15:15:00.000-07:002016-05-03T15:15:19.309-07:00Amelia is Two! I am working on writing up all about Amelia's birthday party but for now I wanted to share some cute pictures of our little two year old (or is it 15? haha sometimes I'm not so sure!)<br />
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And can I just say that she is the most beautiful little lady in all the land? I mean, look at that cheesy smile! All the heart eyes! ALL of them!<br />
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She loves her daddy, and it just melts my heart!<br />
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Girl after my own heart, picking out something chocolatey and delicious at the bakery!<br />
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She's just the cutest, coolest girl ever! </div>
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Isn't it ridiculous how quickly time flies when your kids are little? I wish I could slow it down a little bit, but all we can do is soak up every beautiful minute we spend with our babes! And I seriously cherish mine. Being a mom is the greatest. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-17827131641346228002015-12-01T14:58:00.001-08:002015-12-01T14:58:11.683-08:00Short Story!Earlier this year I self published a short story on Amazon! It was super exciting and a great accomplishment for me. I love talking about mama stuff, but my real passion is writing stories. <div><br></div><div>This took me a long time to get this done, mostly because I was so nervous about putting something out there. But I broke out of my comfort zone (thanks to my husband!) and went for it! I've been doing that a lot more lately and I'm really growing as a writer because of it! </div><div><br></div><div>This is my writing Instagram, if you care to follow my journey: @cbateswrites</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My short story is available for download on Amazon right now for .99! It's called Away With You: a short story </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">and this is the cover: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuEd5SzgayjZx34lBPsNUujTeyaXY36JL_xFfsWq8so9VIRiwjPpSLBuiMBPrfEuTxcJ4yV6n_Wxicvx3PLGA9FF75lqCbv6r8toBPcsR9ulwoSRp7gMoIU74Obv4wk2SmyNX6iPDbxKaK/s640/blogger-image--132033854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuEd5SzgayjZx34lBPsNUujTeyaXY36JL_xFfsWq8so9VIRiwjPpSLBuiMBPrfEuTxcJ4yV6n_Wxicvx3PLGA9FF75lqCbv6r8toBPcsR9ulwoSRp7gMoIU74Obv4wk2SmyNX6iPDbxKaK/s640/blogger-image--132033854.jpg"></a></div>I designed it using the program on Amazon! It was so fun and so so easy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm nearly done writing the novel I've been working on since I published this. It's going to be a good one, and will also be published on Amazon for instant download! If you follow my writing Instagram listed above, you'll get updates on when the release date will be! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thanks everyone who has supported me through this and got me to this point. Hopefully one day I'll be the next Jodi Picoult or something 😉 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">xo </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Chelsea </div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-2678518166193392262015-12-01T12:38:00.001-08:002015-12-01T12:38:05.392-08:00Pregnancy #2Here are a few of the fun weekly shots we do! I have this amazing chalk board in my living room that I love to incorporate. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnmZSfbvtM9cmcx2lKLclQwMXQWhZjbSJy1z2WcgCFbmO6H_Sf9MRbr-3iA0wWzmiQdCjWHBxN8beyKBpkwT8pNxe4xJSp855s2q2jbwK6zZUxWAy9evLGdrlvp4ECxRkwg97vO5e888Ru/s640/blogger-image-923720706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnmZSfbvtM9cmcx2lKLclQwMXQWhZjbSJy1z2WcgCFbmO6H_Sf9MRbr-3iA0wWzmiQdCjWHBxN8beyKBpkwT8pNxe4xJSp855s2q2jbwK6zZUxWAy9evLGdrlvp4ECxRkwg97vO5e888Ru/s640/blogger-image-923720706.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdg8_xqm5xVUee3voY1FMn04CMyupzPb8f0zRb-Di8aaH7CIQ-Tx3VYS4Ldr7-gy2T9ZDsvjylgcsmiaOk8ZraZmUcW1Gz-rJ8T7_ZVgzTuEYZZFyLL4KJPJ9CTEc6X6OJQiaYAvY1H3rp/s640/blogger-image--1097198300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdg8_xqm5xVUee3voY1FMn04CMyupzPb8f0zRb-Di8aaH7CIQ-Tx3VYS4Ldr7-gy2T9ZDsvjylgcsmiaOk8ZraZmUcW1Gz-rJ8T7_ZVgzTuEYZZFyLL4KJPJ9CTEc6X6OJQiaYAvY1H3rp/s640/blogger-image--1097198300.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrd_yp_O8t4MiURK6hVolnXwwuDpyapbheuoHQO08AfpbpnaWDFZ-Pe5a6XYjqSvjc1bXU1KecK4gP4mvWP9nVg4PTer2In6gVj2kU0I7bqblwS4rwHUxNr-lhoDG9v0KrE-hXkjbefNIq/s640/blogger-image-1582704741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrd_yp_O8t4MiURK6hVolnXwwuDpyapbheuoHQO08AfpbpnaWDFZ-Pe5a6XYjqSvjc1bXU1KecK4gP4mvWP9nVg4PTer2In6gVj2kU0I7bqblwS4rwHUxNr-lhoDG9v0KrE-hXkjbefNIq/s640/blogger-image-1582704741.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFq9qnKsBgQI8XzSOh6OUj9Qsk4aObWT92H2gFs6SP-GGc3rNYUkAX4uHCrUW_vnTkOag7FA82BW5unMT3aMKmQVvDfWJtrBbOaeti8i8ggb4tN4_gUYYX9-ZotdSeNL3GPuqNXfFGRWTx/s640/blogger-image--258034963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFq9qnKsBgQI8XzSOh6OUj9Qsk4aObWT92H2gFs6SP-GGc3rNYUkAX4uHCrUW_vnTkOag7FA82BW5unMT3aMKmQVvDfWJtrBbOaeti8i8ggb4tN4_gUYYX9-ZotdSeNL3GPuqNXfFGRWTx/s640/blogger-image--258034963.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I did this same thing with my first pregnancy and am really glad to have progressive pictures of each pregnancy. No matter how hard they both were, its such an amazing thing that I feel so blessed to experience. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">xo </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Chelsea </div><br></div><br></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-17174827093731178962015-12-01T12:32:00.001-08:002015-12-01T12:32:37.231-08:00Hyperemesis GravidarumUgh. <br><div><br></div><div>That about sums it up. IVs, medications, herbs, every remedy in the book, and nothing helps. I'm so grateful that I didn't end up in the hospital, but I did spend the majority of my pregnant months in bed, on the couch, and stuck on the bathroom floor. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6NQn4man-pBzHdGHGuFyp8_JehJ7hKU5ZAYWCTdDBc2CQY4BAyBw7C9XeoddUzC2nV9uTYleX7R2tZscqrrSJTk-O8c63_934XYVwgWSDEhSPg_KT9ZNybP-4jHnvZqDY4eV1rlV6IiP/s640/blogger-image--913465931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6NQn4man-pBzHdGHGuFyp8_JehJ7hKU5ZAYWCTdDBc2CQY4BAyBw7C9XeoddUzC2nV9uTYleX7R2tZscqrrSJTk-O8c63_934XYVwgWSDEhSPg_KT9ZNybP-4jHnvZqDY4eV1rlV6IiP/s640/blogger-image--913465931.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>It's not pretty. And it's not normal morning sickness. I'm almost to the end, and I still get bad days, bad hours, and bad weeks. I still get nauseous at least once a day. I admire the strength of the women who have it worse than I do. Or those women who have done it so many times. It's not easy to stay strong and keep fighting and keep yourself healthy. </div><div><br></div><div>If you are struggling with this illness, know you're not alone. I know it feels that way so often because it's not common and many people don't understand it or even know what it is! Let's change that. Let's share our stories and not be ashamed that we are struggling to get through each day. Stand together and support each other. Sometimes that's all we need! </div><div><br></div><div>I recently wrote an article on HG for xoJane. You can read it here: <a href="http://www.xojane.com/it-happened-to-me/hyperemesis-gravidarum-pregnancy" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">http://www.xojane.com/it-happened-to-me/hyperemesis-gravidarum-pregnancy</a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>xo </div><div><br></div><div>Chelsea </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-21714813721623854052015-12-01T12:20:00.001-08:002015-12-01T12:20:20.183-08:00Baby Bates Number TwoIt's been so long since I've kept up on the blog. I'm busy, and trying to focus more on my novel. <div><br></div><div>To fill you all in: we are pregnant with our second babe! We couldn't be more thrilled and excited. The little one will be here after the first of the year (sometime)! </div><div><br></div><div>This pregnancy has been really hard. I have hyperemesis gravidarum and it's not easy to live with especially with a toddler to care for. It's all very much worth it, but I can't wait to not be pregnant anymore. That makes me sad, and to all you mamas struggling with being pregnant, just know this: you are not alone. Just because pregnancy isn't amazing for us doesn't mean we aren't grateful or happy. It's just hard. </div><div><br></div><div>And it's okay to feel however we feel about it! </div><div><br></div><div>Here is a cute announcement photo we did for this baby! I was 20 weeks. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX36DK7Z-1Vkry0pRV56sooYBdneQXvbOeS5ZWAN7oEKCDbu5hp1AB453N7SA1r_cvIvKhLOAsfsqbjyKDeGrVELG5dkurTz5ogKYpbcv_vLjVkHCcJkVELSnVQ5eqdCCEmPp_t0NsGuhA/s640/blogger-image--927650894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX36DK7Z-1Vkry0pRV56sooYBdneQXvbOeS5ZWAN7oEKCDbu5hp1AB453N7SA1r_cvIvKhLOAsfsqbjyKDeGrVELG5dkurTz5ogKYpbcv_vLjVkHCcJkVELSnVQ5eqdCCEmPp_t0NsGuhA/s640/blogger-image--927650894.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNgkkmXtCP-2xr5MuqQ7DFx4EZVvtlSSJTWhhihREv057UKoY_b9aqd6-G9myYvRM0qgZ3asrk7qnLAg9nC4dhP6kfbgWXOCUcQjGI2dk4pgzo6zExKUyZKpjMlqbW6sgQqNwuSQVe5d1a/s640/blogger-image--2014937518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNgkkmXtCP-2xr5MuqQ7DFx4EZVvtlSSJTWhhihREv057UKoY_b9aqd6-G9myYvRM0qgZ3asrk7qnLAg9nC4dhP6kfbgWXOCUcQjGI2dk4pgzo6zExKUyZKpjMlqbW6sgQqNwuSQVe5d1a/s640/blogger-image--2014937518.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Amelia loves her sibling already and is so excited to be a big sister! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">xo </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Chelsea </div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-18647361417660130072015-11-07T13:24:00.001-08:002015-11-07T13:24:33.178-08:00Good Things Utah: Vegan Pumpkin BarsToday I had the amazingn opportunity to be a guest in a local program called Good Things Utah! It's an amazing show, and I watch it every morning. I have to admit I was a bit stars truck meeting the talented people I watch from behind my mug of coffee each morning. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXY5BJCXXVxIU0l3bBfNTTmwJ1gYwGYqjefHlRKioe0DymPwS8FLA3SyfuCTzh0gVSvPS2i3tCxm0Y6tO3rWtpY920S1QmTzXHExb-saKcpkftq1eHmv17tX3SuvAEctyF-3MpTGvPtXJQ/s640/blogger-image-67553121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXY5BJCXXVxIU0l3bBfNTTmwJ1gYwGYqjefHlRKioe0DymPwS8FLA3SyfuCTzh0gVSvPS2i3tCxm0Y6tO3rWtpY920S1QmTzXHExb-saKcpkftq1eHmv17tX3SuvAEctyF-3MpTGvPtXJQ/s640/blogger-image-67553121.jpg"></a></div><br><div><br></div><div>My daughter even dances to the theme song. We are pretty much the biggest fans of GTU, so being on the show was a crazy thing for me! </div><div><br></div><div>One of my closest friends is the associate producer on the show and invited me on to share my vegan pumpkin bar recipe! </div><div><br></div><div>It was an amazing morning. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUwx0-AlA-GN1cGKZUMF0zsDlu8RXhfw230ncr9l-d8MdloZC5x7BkWoPVWOytchB7HgmL7AtNyorRA3EllTn1wNxP2zos1TPcljWmK5G61a7qzOntXLKoY6pmX3mdku-mu35yAijp7Xc/s640/blogger-image-1490905229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUwx0-AlA-GN1cGKZUMF0zsDlu8RXhfw230ncr9l-d8MdloZC5x7BkWoPVWOytchB7HgmL7AtNyorRA3EllTn1wNxP2zos1TPcljWmK5G61a7qzOntXLKoY6pmX3mdku-mu35yAijp7Xc/s640/blogger-image-1490905229.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkjPeGjE4vcuwYifJ_ZJxOwKPzusX7Dcsfpnan4Q4WI33qmBMtSeKJKDsgUpv89Yu-2g45glXWpLQuTlbASa7vJfBtLXygsAdrYLDn2uJJMuYs-kFFUWBycim53sUT1SgzIIQp83Sm4uR/s640/blogger-image--900614710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkjPeGjE4vcuwYifJ_ZJxOwKPzusX7Dcsfpnan4Q4WI33qmBMtSeKJKDsgUpv89Yu-2g45glXWpLQuTlbASa7vJfBtLXygsAdrYLDn2uJJMuYs-kFFUWBycim53sUT1SgzIIQp83Sm4uR/s640/blogger-image--900614710.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Head over to the GTU webpage to watch the full segment! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="http://www.good4utah.com/good-things-utah/gtu-recipes/vegan-pumpkin-bars">http://www.good4utah.com/good-things-utah/gtu-recipes/vegan-pumpkin-bars</a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-9237878844411375602015-10-23T18:00:00.001-07:002015-10-23T18:00:44.975-07:00Vegan Pumpkin Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqZcxUpGUeSi_sC88s_cFa_4S7bW6mNkvRiPi_UG4qxQL3gmlIY9OcbUEj7ne1miHvXRsmQ22fgqVHBPVB1jpfwe5rk3_fjtzMeIaZ66mEtjQ-s0d2RU8OpZZTSw2SIAJE5bUYE77e0bg/s640/blogger-image--1515036703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqZcxUpGUeSi_sC88s_cFa_4S7bW6mNkvRiPi_UG4qxQL3gmlIY9OcbUEj7ne1miHvXRsmQ22fgqVHBPVB1jpfwe5rk3_fjtzMeIaZ66mEtjQ-s0d2RU8OpZZTSw2SIAJE5bUYE77e0bg/s640/blogger-image--1515036703.jpg"></a></div>These are so yummy and SO easy! <div><br></div><div>They're also pretty healthy for a dessert, do you won't feel bad eating two, or three, or a whole pan! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiS4hbXI-KFVLrc5xYm129hSJJ_Z3LVXUGqK6dXbdrAy0O2_M-gs_586mTnUVQNMb4WPpez6NcM6n1ooLKuFnLr8sR0-A6U64dh5M3TALH6EruXoY2dLj5BDQv3pjP3PjYiwl0RWywrVF/s640/blogger-image-1542951605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiS4hbXI-KFVLrc5xYm129hSJJ_Z3LVXUGqK6dXbdrAy0O2_M-gs_586mTnUVQNMb4WPpez6NcM6n1ooLKuFnLr8sR0-A6U64dh5M3TALH6EruXoY2dLj5BDQv3pjP3PjYiwl0RWywrVF/s640/blogger-image-1542951605.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Vegan Pumpkin Bars</span><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">6 vegan eggs (1 T. flaxseed meal to 3 T. warm water per egg)</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 1/2 C. Coconut oil</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">3 C. Brown Sugar </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 T. Molasses </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2 t. Vanilla </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">30 oz. Pumpkin Puree</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">3 1/4 C. Flour (if gluten free, swap for coconut flour!)</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2 t. Baking Soda</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 T. Cinnamon </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 1/2 t. salt </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">(Optional: coconut whipped cream, chocolate chips, powdered sugar.) </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Preheat oven to 350 degrees </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Mix flaxseed meal with warm water and let sit 5 minutes. Add oil, sugar, molasses, and vanilla. Mix on medium until smooth. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Spoon in pumpkin puree, and continue to mix until smooth. Slowly add in flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt while mixing. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Pour batter into lightly greased pan (top with chocolate chips if desired, I usually do half the pan with chips) and bake 45-50 minutes. Be sure not to over cook! Let cool 10 minutes before topping with sugar or coconut cream. </span></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Enjoy!</span></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-44219781019856600052015-05-11T14:48:00.001-07:002015-05-11T14:48:27.473-07:00Homemade PretzelsEveryone has been asking for my recipe of homemad soft pretzels, so here it is! <div><br></div><div>It's so darn easy and fast, you will probably want to make them right away. Like right now. </div><div><br></div><div>I don't blame you. </div><div>I think I might even make them two days in a row. </div><div><br></div><div>It all began because my husband bought me a brand new, gorgeous kitchen aid mixer for Mother's Day, after my old mixer broke! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnzl5rZJgsvb34gde4FMkmYwd67S8yJ3WupuaqEK2IXA25YTtWewp2_kYKkci_qktFnKBvyp88nKcU4dGLPHU0B00NQp9dJT2O7aK2wsP-yUXpVpIL_h3pzxhqNP4re7KHtom22G9ykgd/s640/blogger-image--317501321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnzl5rZJgsvb34gde4FMkmYwd67S8yJ3WupuaqEK2IXA25YTtWewp2_kYKkci_qktFnKBvyp88nKcU4dGLPHU0B00NQp9dJT2O7aK2wsP-yUXpVpIL_h3pzxhqNP4re7KHtom22G9ykgd/s640/blogger-image--317501321.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's so pretty. And I'm totally obsessing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Anyways. Typically with a pretzel recipe you must do a baking soda bath, but with these you can skip that step. Which is super amazing because sometimes you over do the bath and end up with some metallic tasting pretzels (YUCK)! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ingredients: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1.5 cups warm water </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">2 1/4 teaspoons dry active yeast </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1 tablespoon sugar </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1 teaspoon salt </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">3 3/4 cups flour </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1 egg, beaten </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Directions: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">In a large bowl (stand mixer) add water, yeast and sugar. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Let dissolve for about ten minutes until the yeast mixture gets a little frothy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Add the salt, add flour one cup at a time while mixing on the lowest setting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Knead dough with dough hooks for a couple minutes. Be sure it isn't too sticky! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Divide, roll, cut into bites or form into pretzels! Brush egg over tops. Sprinkle with salt, or cinnamon sugar! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Bake for 10 minutes in a 425 degree oven. Broil for 2-3 minutes to brown the tops. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Enjoy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIL4iJPTLNxbY8Fl7pjQPdv7PtuBHY8gsyeORLi6MyBPyD6mf7O1Y8g2M4DFU9H4Z5jqes0eTNa4nSAZg1-L9xoUBsrMFIW7S4nVGez6Gw8iHF2wrJYpeWuALEHlOsl20wygN_ST86zEak/s640/blogger-image--256307610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIL4iJPTLNxbY8Fl7pjQPdv7PtuBHY8gsyeORLi6MyBPyD6mf7O1Y8g2M4DFU9H4Z5jqes0eTNa4nSAZg1-L9xoUBsrMFIW7S4nVGez6Gw8iHF2wrJYpeWuALEHlOsl20wygN_ST86zEak/s640/blogger-image--256307610.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-27127637502103059792015-04-20T11:29:00.002-07:002015-04-20T11:29:24.486-07:00Coachella Birthday BashAmelia is officially one. I still can't believe it! We threw her a fun Coachella themed party this past weekend to celebrate. Amelia loves LOVES music, so it was the perfect theme. I made everything myself, and several followers have asked for the details, so here is a little post to feature instructions and recipes on all the party details! Plus, some cute pictures from the party because, well, CUTE baby! Enjoy!<br />
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Homemade funfetti cake with whipped cream frosting.</div>
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This cake is super easy and I created the healthiest version I could because we also had cotton candy, and I'm too health conscious to not ATTEMPT to create a healthier birthday cake for a one year old and a bunch of kids! Here is my recipe: </div>
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Yields 1 four layer cake and 1 small smash cake </div>
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Cake:<br />
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2 eggs </div>
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3 1/2-4 cups unbleached flour </div>
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1 tsp baking powder </div>
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1/2 tsp baking soda </div>
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1 1/4 cups raw sugar or honey</div>
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1/2 tsp salt </div>
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3 tbsp homemade vanilla </div>
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1/2 cup vanilla yogurt </div>
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2 cups coconut oil (or butter) </div>
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1 3/4 cups milk (almond, coconut, cows, whatever you use!)<br />
2/3 cup sprinkles (not nonpareils)<br />
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Frosting:<br />
1 large container of whipping cream<br />
1 block cream cheese<br />
1 tbsp vanilla<br />
1/4 cup honey<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
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For the cake:<br />
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Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, blend together butter, milk, vanilla, and yogurt. Slowly, in a stand mixer, add the dry ingredients to the wet. Gently fold in the sprinkles. Fill cake pans (be sure they are oiled or buttered beforehand) and place in a 350 degree oven. Cakes will take about 35 minutes to bake.<br />
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For the frosting:<br />
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In a stand mixer, whip the whipping cream into whipped cream. Depending on the speed you use, this can take quite some time, so be patient! Once it is a thicker consistency, add the cream cheese, vanilla, honey, cinnamon, and blend until smooth. You can always add more honey to taste, again I tried making the healthiest cake possible for babies!<br />
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Amelia loved it!</div>
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DIY teepee:<br />
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I unfortunately did not take step-by-step photos for this, and I know that is a HUGE disappointment! Forgive me! Here it is set up in the yard at the party.<br />
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It was amazing at providing her some shade!</div>
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Here are some instructions: </div>
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5 1/2 inch 4 foot tall PVC pipes </div>
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3 yards of fabric</div>
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Floral tape </div>
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Hot glue and gun </div>
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This was a no-sew project. I set up and measured where I wanted the pipes to be on the fabric and made the cuts. I then glued the fabric around each pipe from top to bottom, while covering the pipe entirely in fabric other than about 1 foot at the tops. I glued the fabric while the pipes they were propped up! It made it much easier! </div>
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Once that was finished, I tied a piece of left over fabric around the top, just where the fabric ends to give it a more finished look. I then wrapped the exposed pipes in floral tape! </div>
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It was fast and easy, that I promise.</div>
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We bought an amazing cotton candy machine! It was such a great addition to the party, and looked pretty on the food tables! Who doesn't love cotton candy?!</div>
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I made this "All About Me" poster for the party. It included current weight, height, teeth count, favorite activities, songs, foods, toys, animals, princesses, words she says, and other milestones! It will be a treasured thing to have as she gets older! It was fun for family and friends to learn about her as well! </div>
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Porch set up: banners, balloons and crepe paper! We used all the colors for this party! </div>
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Food tables! </div>
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I also made this floral headdress for my princess. I used floral wire, hot glued flowers all around, wrapped it all in floral tape, the glued and floral tapped the feathers to the front! </div>
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More photos of the cotton candy bouquets! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-0yE_KxkldgE8oBX0_PLgo7-KrkAYUPpak3LftoEOFA1qMic4QYXZFxtifLywnJCdQxL05YKUlUo1Q8JnF6lQ7Exs3_t5z37slnr60kR1pJlKSbi5srH4RF4ZiP7_ZQtzcMNINlC18xz/s1600/DSC02578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-0yE_KxkldgE8oBX0_PLgo7-KrkAYUPpak3LftoEOFA1qMic4QYXZFxtifLywnJCdQxL05YKUlUo1Q8JnF6lQ7Exs3_t5z37slnr60kR1pJlKSbi5srH4RF4ZiP7_ZQtzcMNINlC18xz/s1600/DSC02578.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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WE put the melon slices on large Popsicle sticks! Fun and less messy for the kids! </div>
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Okay, so maybe I was a little obsessed with the cotton candy...</div>
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I did not get any great photos of the favors I made, but they were cute crepe paper crowns for all the kids! I started them out the same as Amelia's floral headdress. A circle of wire covered in floral tape. I cut 4 inch stripes of various colored crepe paper, leaving one inch in the center cut the ends into three strips to make them "wispy." Then wrap them around the crown and glue them to it for security. They were surprisingly durable! </div>
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That's them on the table there! </div>
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I would also like to publicly thank all that attended and made that day truly special for our sweet girl! It was a day to remember! </div>
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xo </div>
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Chelsea</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-55492049540430484552015-02-25T15:21:00.000-08:002015-12-01T14:58:37.753-08:00Breast feeding after reductionBreast feeding is the most sensitive subject for me, and I don't see that ever changing. I have become much better at talking about it, and I have finally accepted that I could not EBF. But I still blame myself, I don't know if that will ever change. For women with no major breast surgery in their past, breast feeding is still difficult and emotional, but the chance of having a low supply is slim. For women, like myself, who have had a major surgery on their breasts, the chances of having a low supply or other difficulties is much more common.<br>
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I so badly wish I had known what I know now before going through with my surgery. I was barely 18 years old, a size 00, and a large DD. I developed breasts FAR too young, and was already in an overflowing C cup by 7th grade. I was a dancer, and I remember it being incredibly difficult to find costumes that fit me without looking very inappropriate. Men stared at me when I was a child, which made me so uncomfortable and honestly scared in my own skin. I couldn't wear cute tops because my breasts were either too large or I was too concerned with them being noticeable. I think I was 16 the first time someone made comments to me about "having a great body for porn." It made me so sick, and so angry. I had back problems because my chest was too heavy for the rest of my very small frame. I hated boobs so much, and could not wait for the day I could cut them off. I would have preferred to be flat chested back then.<br>
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<br>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-16833554205678175902015-02-25T10:55:00.000-08:002015-02-25T10:55:36.356-08:00BLW: Feeding the Older Baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Right now Amelia is just over 10 months old, and she seriously wants to eat EVERYTHING ALL THE TIME! Which makes it really easy to feed her, but I do continually find myself running out of new ideas. It can be hard to find healthy, organic options so that we are not feeding her the same foods every day/week.<br />
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I was bummed when I went on a hunt for new ideas on pinterest and really didn't find much that I wasn't already doing. That is what gave me the idea to throw this post together. These are a few things I often make for meals that Amelia really enjoys. All organic, healthy, delicious, and super easy to make.<br />
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Breakfast: </div>
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Eggs, berries, mini bagel. </div>
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French toast sticks, blueberries, eggs. </div>
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Eggs, kiwi, squash. </div>
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Blueberries, avocado, sweet potato hash, eggs. </div>
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Berries, eggs, <a href="http://beingmamablog.blogspot.com/2015/01/blw-recipe-healthy-strawberry-muffins.html">strawberry muffin</a>. </div>
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Blackberries, strawberries, eggs, avocado toast. </div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeh1pPsEw0mwZg1xE-l0dLPL8LxObQiKFtXxY3uH0LiK0PCQkJCdGj-oB05OnQxjpG200DGsTwYfnO8liamxnxwg4tWt_ZckgEycnZT6rn-eMoc1-jZ2jW0Z-vrpvr_13FpfLmU7nsx-EL/s320/blogger-image-947154111.jpg" width="240" /></div>
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Egg sandwich: toast, avocado, omelet with spinach, blueberries. </div>
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Lunch or Dinner: </div>
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Avocado sauce pasta, peas, carrots with coconut oil and dill. </div>
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Macaroni and peas. </div>
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Peanut butter tortilla roll up, apples, sauteed zucchini. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdxIfFqjIy7Stul4bcGUVAzVMB0JjfEZ6BlHaa6XjbjDvgLXsUrOzpEEzZUQm7IfsOhS5rsEvbnA4NiAvpE1PW0Hy-bsrjn779Lc9webDfz6oufy-l0Jn2dLBzGi96h4vU9Tj4wHaz5ri/s640/blogger-image-1102870272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdxIfFqjIy7Stul4bcGUVAzVMB0JjfEZ6BlHaa6XjbjDvgLXsUrOzpEEzZUQm7IfsOhS5rsEvbnA4NiAvpE1PW0Hy-bsrjn779Lc9webDfz6oufy-l0Jn2dLBzGi96h4vU9Tj4wHaz5ri/s320/blogger-image-1102870272.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Roasted dill potatoes, green beans, peas. </div>
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiW_zwAdoD8KCsYpIEQdK0kwYORi2MIQkoxL3HOKf5RzQ989xp8fevc0OraWi3kjknY-M872I8NqwoWKdWmqJ07eH5MUKzEanVl-tfv5EtM7h4ukm7C_dMMlNlmZxC4SntCJ4ki8uFJYzo/s320/blogger-image--1625331462.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Pineapple, sweet potatoes, zucchini pasta with tomato basil sauce.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcdCfHqH0HFoGB2l2yw_y2b7yqY9jwaI35TvJCAuhb1vaRmBvSeeYMygPqECOWYwJKamTJT9YowRTu4W8vaF2my4SNtA39HiHRDX_rb2xE3fXXUCoIi_7b7ioReg4Yr-XZodoy0vB6shp/s320/blogger-image--2147031994.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Pineapple, brussels sprouts, red potatoes.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNyYE2uet5CmDMHxvh8BQN9ckgp4vLQYtpuFl3Xl0f6CSXLklkKLndakGnqpdaIFG1rywAkS3eV49VQ7zJPp5cHnH3JvaBcmgZ98zKslc9k1ye__EWD07RuZsEGl4V78AeZa641tIkThT/s320/blogger-image-542555486.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Burrito bowl: jasmine rice, black beans, avocado.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEO0HIli2d1O3GBBpghTd6nJzxq_hpyiqKl2vgcWZQRIyZyZMArYFJ7OOJt22c7BUsZAMeS2cU4kxbI_S05R7iPX_RHAE9Om3jWU3VKCfdBYk7utQsonzxA_9VUTRrnFbtr5yYEVlushXp/s320/blogger-image-799722634.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Buttered noodles with peas, yobaby yogurt, blueberries.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjfWWt14N4xbfpA8mOotbqV5FZoeU2z39NL-xG0ANANIzbYu3XrfWLRliv-o3hBJyK40JxfEewJPwiDUpljSUFGVdSZymBMX2Jexwq06FX6H0PjSXzSr6gK5w3KyAhP6QLnDHly8p6bPS0/s320/blogger-image--841599640.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Quinoa bowl: quinoa, shredded carrots and apple.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizx9OW7NOqHoNgves080VVBOT8UwYJhZzx47aKDEtIQorxfQw00Y4rMZ3iar1CfLWMqbxQJ7OROfUwn8vY-a5izyiTRWqlO5lYmwklqIbEuPoC0XIPKMLVFaVy_dpRb1RKfyTAYKRZI2pE/s320/blogger-image-1907534063.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Homemade butternut squash soup with toast.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivF7GpUaVpDDTjeOarFM37siB8IsI5gjr_LMwYo9zzNgMP9i1KyIOkeDDSTxb2nb_2ZWLpfI24-_K6xK3ngM0PvCV8NZqmNVv47CgFjIKGgkKYkP_G0eYn7ZxldUYKu2rIl7chNCuM02sW/s320/blogger-image--317760192.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Vegetable quinoa cakes, peas, zucchini.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpzK061evzBPlFYppq9eo66K1jG8wcaGXTbRd9SX2vsJZpjkR_-gKA9fPmzJi6VpYWdWo5bIOWhCb6IH7N2MQHmovTtMxlItVUsr0CwBTVFy61HiCvFbQ3Co7hokkkoTkLcGkoDEz0JNi/s320/blogger-image-1556935870.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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"Fried rice": egg, brown rice, peas. (I would have added carrots but oddly we have realized that they hurt Amelia's tummy!)<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWVAHwp1m0uHtC1WJbSDVv3Q4u65MlwzpR2uUiuJZmtXMu4X5FyvhQNToDCJ9VfkAbA_sDU4VX6Od6T1qNhbTd5PLftmVMFNiblwCV1nB-0_dfIalmLxllFLxbOfBWFkCPVDJfzB1y2j5/s320/blogger-image-1250595011.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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<a href="http://beingmamablog.blogspot.com/2015/02/blw-recipe-quinoa-banana-bread.html">Quinoa banana bread</a>, peas, pita pizza: pita bread, spread homemade tzatkiki sauce and topped with red peppers.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OtUwXUxlPkFNnhTeazK2BCAMsLVkBVeQ4BmP3zBQy7tuFnSJD3Jd94sEmybLE0LnXiKBhium_zBNM_UNEDuRrGe2N_1ZrBLQjg6KgO57VdO0YDlrWOtjxN3jUsMrYJ7p5_Sk14upg__B/s320/blogger-image-1990788958.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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Quinoa and kale soup with vegetable broth.<br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdow9lsXPjowF2dYqKlSZBknobzwpB_-olmbeCa5MIwedS7BQjFOi9VSMuMz84JkVEMMdALg0jzfFFS6KdSYVDwrxpvKtn-JjlacPY7eD2_fL6qRgqIP2nAKyjXvD7JNb9k6H0MvV5Zz1D/s320/blogger-image--1859458392.jpg" width="240" /><br />
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All of these are super easy, healthy, and Amelia loves them! I hope your babe does too.<br />
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Thanks for reading,<br />
Chelsea<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-57991676566945514982015-02-19T10:50:00.000-08:002015-02-19T10:50:10.401-08:00Creating a Birth Plan (birth preferences)I am sure most of you have heard about, or written your own birth plan. Most women choose to write one so they don't have to stress about anyone not knowing what kind of birth they want, or telling it to each individual person or care provider they encounter. It is best if this is actually called birth preferences, because we can't 'plan' a birth, but we can have preferences. In the moment, we end up having to listen to our bodies, and birth the way we feel is necessary in the moment. I think that it is also important to call it 'preferences' over 'plans' because that allows us to be more open and prepared to birth the way we need to when the time comes.<br />
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Having the birth that you do not want, or do not plan for, can be very damaging to women. It can cause many women to feel disappointment, guilt, anger, and extreme sadness for years. I find this to be so heartbreaking.<br />
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What I do have to point out is that sometimes, unfortunately, women have traumatic birth experiences, and it should not have been that way. Their birth is stolen from them. Although I was planning a home birth with Amelia, I knew that I could not handle any of these things happening to me. So I wrote up my birth preferences for my home birth, and a back up birth preferences list in case I ended up needed a transfer to the hospital.</div>
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I was a bit stressed about having a bad experience. It makes me pretty sad to look back and realize this. I know that it is because so many first time mothers end up having the opposite birth they want, or being told they "have to" do something or "cannot do" something else. Even though I had really educated myself, and was not even leaving my own home to birth, there was something inside of me that just knew I needed to avoid this happening to me no matter what. </div>
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That is why I wanted to share how to create your own birth preferences, and why it is important to do so.<br />
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<b>1. Decide where you want to birth.</b><br />
Your reasons are your own, and this decision is solely yours. No one can make it for you, and no one should judge you for it either. Some of the looks, and remarks, I received about birthing at home really offended me. Being in a hormonal pregnant state, I didn't need to hear others opinions. This is such a personal decision, don't let anyone else factor in here. Having said that, support is always nice to have. Especially from your significant other. I was very happy that my husband was so supportive of my goal to have a home birth. Even though he was nervous about it, he is so happy with the birth as well!<br />
This is also where you will need to decide what kind of care provider you want, if you haven't already. Some women think that they cannot change providers once they are further along in pregnancy, but you can change whenever you want if you are unhappy!<br />
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<b>2. Choosing a method/practice.</b><br />
Hypnobirthing, bypnobabies, Bradly, whatever you choose, just do your research. Not one method will fit every woman, or every birth, or every pregnancy. I chose hypnobirthing, and it was the perfect fit for me. I loved it so much. I knew that it was the right choice for me after a lot of reading, and realizing how similar it was to yoga.<br />
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<b>3. Decide who (if anyone) you want to attend your birth.</b><br />
This includes anyone allowed throughout labor, as well as anyone in the room as you are actually giving birth, and afterward. Basically, this is where you decide on all visitors and outsiders. For those birthing in a hospital, you need to know how many they will allow in the room. For me, I knew that I wanted no one other than my midwives and my husband. It wasn't even a thought for me. I would also like to add here that you should not be made to feel bad or guilty about who you choose, or choose not to have. Birth is so sacred and so private.<br />
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<b>4. Interventions during labor.</b><br />
This includes the epidural. Please do your research here! Especially if you choose a hospital birth, as there are so many choices to be made. Yes, choices, don't allow anyone to tell you otherwise. Few times is something going to be life or death, and no longer an option. For most births, it is all your choice, even if someone claims "you HAVE to" do or have something.<br />
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There are so many interventions in birth, and you need to be aware of each and every one. You don't want to have something you did not know about happen, and be upset about it later because you didn't know.<br />
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Here is a list of common interventions in a traditional birth setting:<br />
<ul>
<li>vaginal checks</li>
<li>epidural</li>
<li>IV</li>
<li>induction</li>
<li>no eating or drinking </li>
<li>staying in the bed (most of the time on your back)</li>
<li>fetal monitoring</li>
<li>wearing a hospital gown</li>
<li>artificially rupturing water</li>
<li>episiotomy</li>
<li>vacuum extractor/forceps</li>
</ul>
<b>5. Language.</b><br />
It might sound strange to some, but this is something really important that most of us never think about beforehand. Typically the terms 'contraction' and 'pain' are used a lot by care providers. Some women do not like those words, and prefer 'surge' or 'pressure' or 'waves' over 'contraction.' We called them surges most of the time, but the other words did not bother me either. However, I did not want pain brought up. I did not want to place pain on a level, or even be asked to think about pain. In my opinion, I felt it would make it impossible to practice hypnosis if I was constantly being reminded of pain. A lot of women having natural births are not okay with rating pain or the word even being said.<br />
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<b>6. Atmosphere.</b><br />
Sit down and envision your perfect birthing place. Then write it down. It is that simple! We did this in our private hypnobirthing class, and drew a picture of it. I think that is a great exercise. Mine was in my bedroom, in the birthing tub, with my husband, and some candles. It doesn't even need to be specific. Say you would like the lights dimmed, and hushed voices, or maybe you want music playing and candles (if you are having a hospital birth, be sure to get some flame-less candles!). <br />
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<b>7. Baby.</b><br />
Here is where you will list all your preferences for your baby after he/she is born! These are some of the first choices you will be making for your baby, so make educated choices!<br />
Some of the things you will need to decide include:<br />
<ul>
<li>vitamin K shot </li>
<li>will baby be bathed or rubbed down?</li>
<li>when baby can be weighed, measured, etc.</li>
<li>skin to skin contact</li>
<li>breastfeeding?</li>
<li>if baby will be taken from mom/dad (nursery) </li>
<li>when to clamp the babies cord (delayed cord clamping)</li>
</ul>
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There is so much to consider when writing your birth preferences. My best advice is to do your research on every aspect of birth, and make educated choices! There are also a lot of samples out there that are super helpful when writing your birth plan/preferences. </div>
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xo,<br />
Chelsea</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-30058246228764481382015-02-13T16:01:00.002-08:002015-02-13T16:01:46.479-08:00BLW Recipe: Quinoa Banana BreadI love coming up with new recipes, especially ones for my 10 month old daughter. This recipe was inspired by having a ton of left over, unseasoned quinoa in the fridge and needing to find something to make with it!<br />
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These were made for my baby, but they are so so yummy, anyone will LOVE them! They are a healthy treat you won't feel guilty about.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPI30ToTea8ir1cBi8Fsf2njmo4K6uEMQJTva_TQq3Yfhu0bX04R-yUnGvbtfUBZOXPe-_jYcBPHpXG3_IawyLLcehaWYZPKUCb77gk5oNifCRz53dGfMy9wleVk7Z9IsaFCPX2M4Komf_/s1600/Quinoa+Banana+Bread.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPI30ToTea8ir1cBi8Fsf2njmo4K6uEMQJTva_TQq3Yfhu0bX04R-yUnGvbtfUBZOXPe-_jYcBPHpXG3_IawyLLcehaWYZPKUCb77gk5oNifCRz53dGfMy9wleVk7Z9IsaFCPX2M4Komf_/s1600/Quinoa+Banana+Bread.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ingredients: I use all natural and organic ingredients.<br />
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3 ripe bananas<br />
3 eggs<br />
1/2 C. almond or coconut milk<br />
1 1/2 C. cooked quinoa<br />
1 C. coconut flour<br />
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Mix all wet ingredients, add dry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSPZHNuHx9q9ws6ULLhy6Al7uBgNTb4b0x9OQVEO-IuNomEQgdap4zl45lPYqeBT3FXL7pzlVhpQRkeXZGpG187y_grhNUppl3ry1BQpGi7b4eUNuJbnsYaawXIbQJPlj3d0M11BLOTC3C/s640/blogger-image-1682610927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSPZHNuHx9q9ws6ULLhy6Al7uBgNTb4b0x9OQVEO-IuNomEQgdap4zl45lPYqeBT3FXL7pzlVhpQRkeXZGpG187y_grhNUppl3ry1BQpGi7b4eUNuJbnsYaawXIbQJPlj3d0M11BLOTC3C/s320/blogger-image-1682610927.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Mix well.<br />
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Bake for 25 minutes in a 350 degree oven.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyL6u2brAZ_KeRbsP_uzvgxJc2i9K9Umwrnpa5AHo9knMzTHbkxcDIvHfpcVL8T0exjtdbEqIkS0ErGutU2lgRu5aTM1YXfx2bkJLyKpkpt8cyFMPMUZymKBuMwwl2vv_B-qgC9hz1PffY/s640/blogger-image-1198726693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyL6u2brAZ_KeRbsP_uzvgxJc2i9K9Umwrnpa5AHo9knMzTHbkxcDIvHfpcVL8T0exjtdbEqIkS0ErGutU2lgRu5aTM1YXfx2bkJLyKpkpt8cyFMPMUZymKBuMwwl2vv_B-qgC9hz1PffY/s320/blogger-image-1198726693.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And done! So simple and fast!<br />
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No sugar. Full of super foods. High in nutrients. And super tasty.<br />
Although, a tad bit messy! But we love it! Makes eating for baby even more fun!<br />
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xo,<br />
ChelseaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-90254413753499539652015-01-29T15:09:00.000-08:002015-01-29T15:12:54.647-08:00BLW Recipe: Healthy Strawberry MuffinsSometimes it can be hard to find things to feed your baby. Lately I have been feeling bad for always feeding Amelia eggs or oatmeal every day for breakfast. I mix up the fruit she has and sometimes I will make french toast or regular toast too. But it is a very small rotation of food, and I really wanted to give her more options.<br>
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I have made several things with coconut flour before, mostly for Amelia, and each time it turns out horrible. I made her teething biscuits once and they tastes like sand and basically crumbled into sand when you touched them. It was frustrating, and I have this big bag of coconut flour I haven't known what to do with. So I decided to try once again, but blend it with regular flour, and see how it went. I also decided to make my own recipe, as all that I have tried out there SUCK!<br>
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I am still super excited at how amazing these muffins turned out! They were so easy, and fast to make too! I am thrilled to be able to share the recipe with my readers and I hope you guys love them as much as I do! These are super healthy (they ARE for you baby/child, but I have had some and so has my husband!) which makes them even better! I refuse to give anything to Amelia that isn't as healthy and whole as possible. Most of my ingredients are organic, GMO free.<br>
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Ingredients:<br>
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1 C. organic chopped strawberries<br>
1 C. whole wheat flour<br>
1/2 C. organic coconut flour<br>
1 egg (we only use organic, cage free)<br>
1/2 C. organic half and half<br>
1/4 C. warm water<br>
1/4 C. organic coconut oil<br>
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Melt the coconut oil into the warm water, add half and half, and egg. Mix well<br>
Add flours and fold strawberries in.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbG_xFgyz4w1rrdVpkwsiuY93K69ipUxpItcscm6FCv-ZLz6gyI1t7GtWCW1miUO3SR7R0UwjHSfm2xgq6cUfJ-BBZy88_LUop5bL9go__PGjNWRlqOSBx6Elt93-SQ5t-LkN5ke_WoqF/s640/blogger-image--154064590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbG_xFgyz4w1rrdVpkwsiuY93K69ipUxpItcscm6FCv-ZLz6gyI1t7GtWCW1miUO3SR7R0UwjHSfm2xgq6cUfJ-BBZy88_LUop5bL9go__PGjNWRlqOSBx6Elt93-SQ5t-LkN5ke_WoqF/s640/blogger-image--154064590.jpg"></a></div><br>
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Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes, or until golden.<br>
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Amelia LOVES these, and devours them when I give her some! I hope your little one likes them as well!<br>
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xo,<br>
Chelsea</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-75150977000087125912015-01-21T12:04:00.001-08:002015-01-21T12:04:08.377-08:00BLW: The Second MonthSo you are ready for month two of baby being on solids! How exciting! Hopefully at this point he/she is actually eating some of the food you are giving them.<br />
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Now that they have had some experience with various tastes and textures, it is time to move onto the second stage.<br />
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Here are some ideas and recipes to try for second foods:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Eggs. Many people think that they should hold off a long time on eggs, but I disagree. Eggs are nutritious and easy for babies to eat. Amelia loves eggs SO much, and has never had a problem with them. I serve them scrambled with salt and pepper, sometimes a little spinach in there as well!</li>
<li>Pickles. Yes, pickles. Homemade or store-bought, for some reason a lot of babies LOVE pickles. They are good to chew on, especially for teething. Amelia's favorite second food was pickles and pickled asparagus. Seriously, if she sees the pickle jar she SCREAMS for some! It's so silly. </li>
<li>Apples. Baked, sauce, or raw, apples are a great second food. They are also really good for teething if you give them raw. </li>
<li>Bread. Of course homemade bread is best, but any organic brand you trust works too. I will even toast it just for a few seconds to get it a little warm! </li>
<li>Banana Toast. Amelia really loved when I make this for her. You smash up a banana, mix in a little coconut (almond or hemp), add some vanilla extract, and dip bread in it. You cook it just like you would regular french toast, but this takes a bit longer to brown. I always use the organic wheat bread she normally eats. </li>
<li>Spaghetti Squash. Fun, yummy, and healthy! For the first few times just season with coconut oil, salt and pepper!</li>
<li>Pasta. We buy whole wheat, organic pasta that has two ingredients. </li>
<li>Vegetables. Basically you should be able to do almost all vegetables once they are used to the first few you try. Just be sure you are still only introducing new things every few days, to ensure they handle the new food well. </li>
<li>Citrus. Oranges, pineapple, etc. are safe now. I just cubed then up into tiny pea sizes, and Amelia scarfed them down! Be very careful to make to oranges small enough! </li>
<li>Waffles and Pancakes. Without the syrup. I make whole grain/organic ones from scratch. Instead of the syrup you can put fruit in the mix! </li>
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Almost all foods are good at this point with Baby Led Solids, in fact some people even begin beans and meats. We are holding off on meat for awhile, as I personally don't like that. We are going to start beans after we do peanut better which I will give her at 40 weeks (next Monday!) because they are harder to digest. </div>
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If you choose to do meat earlier on, as most pediatricians are now recommending for iron levels, do boiled, organic, free range chicken breast. </div>
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I hope this helps you get the idea of second stage foods! </div>
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xo, </div>
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Chelsea </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-39364109360436810742015-01-21T11:07:00.001-08:002015-01-21T11:07:05.803-08:006 things to do instead of CIO<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">CIO= cry it out, also known as the Ferber Method, has probably been recommended to you at some point. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Maybe you were the one to recommend it to a mother. Maybe you don't know that there are other options, or that allowing baby to cry it out is actually harmful for them. </span><br />
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For those of you that don't know, cry it out is when you allow your baby to *cry it out* without attempt at soothing. This is when you lay baby down and most likely have to walk away until they've stopped crying because it pains you to watch and hear. </div>
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It's normal and natural for this to upset you. Your instincts are flaring telling you to comfort your baby, go to them and help. They need you. There have been plenty of studies showing that CIO hurts babies. They feel scared and abandoned, which of course is only going to make them cry harder. It can be very traumatizing and detrimental. You can read about it <a href="http://www.ahaparenting.com/ages-stages/newborns/case-against-ferber-sleepy">here</a> and <a href="http://drbenkim.com/articles-attachment-parenting.html">here</a> and <a href="http://m.psychologytoday.com/blog/moral-landscapes/201112/dangers-crying-it-out">here</a>. There are endless resources on why you should never practice this method with your babies. </div>
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In hope that a mother finds this before she ever practices the CIO method, here is my list of five things to do instead of the CIO method. </div>
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1. HOLD BABY. </div>
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It's not complicated. Baby is in need of something. After you have met feeding and changing needs and baby isn't sleepy, they still have emotional needs as well. They want to be comforted and it is more than okay to comfort your baby. They learn to soothe the right and healthy way when you are comforting them. You're teaching them good things, mama! </div>
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2. SING TO BABY. </div>
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Your baby loves the sound of your voice. It's incredibly soothing and comforting to them. Singing to your baby also helps them develop social skills later on. </div>
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3. COMFORT NURSE. </div>
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Yep, you read right. Comfort nurse. There is a difference in nursing for comfort and nursing for nutrition. Breast feeding is about so much more than feeding. You're creating a bond and teaching love. When you offer yourself to your baby for comfort it makes them feel safe and loved. This is healthy, natural, and regardless of what you have heard or been told it will NEVER spoil your baby. It's about the most selfless thing you can do. Even if you don't produce milk anymore, comfort suckling never hurt a baby! </div>
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4. INFANT MASSAGE. </div>
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Oh how I love infant massage, as does Amelia! I give her a massage at every bedtime before getting her pajamas on. She especially loves her feet being rubbed gently. There are a lot of tutorials on how to safely and effectively use infant massage! It's very soothing and relaxing and can often heal an upset tummy or make baby relaxed enough for sleep. </div>
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5. BABY MAKES THE SCHEDULE. </div>
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Your baby will set themselves on a routine. Follow their lead. Don't force sleep on a baby not ready for it, that's when they cry and cry and cry until you stop. They just aren't sleepy yet. Now if it's bedtime you're trying to get baby to sleep for (and let's face it sometimes they decide its party time when really it's bed time) follow through with your usual bedtime routine (maybe bath, massage, stories, saying goodnight, etc.) keep the lights as low as possible and so soothing activities. Repeat massage, take a soothing bath, use lavender, snuggle, nurse, rock, bounce, sing, anything that will mean ITS TIME TO SLEEP to your little one. </div>
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6. BATH TIME. </div>
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There will be times when nothing will relax or soothe your little one. A nice warm bath with mama, or alone, should usually help TREMENDOUSLY. I took baths with Amelia constantly when she was a newborn. It was our favorite thing to do and an easy way to get skin to skin, which is always super helpful!</div>
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All in all, I highly recommend that you never leave your baby to "cry it out." Even if they're inconsolable at times, the best you can do is hold them and comfort them during this time. They need you, and that is normal and healthy! Sometimes baby will cry, and I understand how frustrating and exhausting it can become, but the best thing you can do for them is love and comfort them during this time. </div>
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I hope that in reading this you understand that you are not being judged if you have ever practiced CIO method. I only hope that this list helps you to not ever have to do it again. Parenting is so important, and we need to support and educate each other on how to be the best mamas we can be for our little babes! </div>
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And to all the mamas reading this who are stressed, tired, burnt out, and frustrated: I get you. I feel for you, and I hope that you see the light at the end of the tunnel. These moments may seem long right now, but they are so short and so small. It is hard to look at it this way in the moment, when you are considering crying along with them, but remember that this is a gift too. It may not seem that way, but you get to be the one to comfort your baby, and be their safe place. You get to be their mama, and that is the most honorable and precious gift in the world. </div>
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xo, </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Chelsea</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-5702519105847918562015-01-15T12:05:00.000-08:002015-12-01T14:58:20.210-08:00Kombucha: The Second FermentI have been so excited to get to this point with my kombucha. I checked on it everyday during the first fermentation, which can last anywhere between 7 and 21 days. I was hopeful mine would be closer to 7 days than 21, because I knew we were all dying to get this going on the second round.<br>
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Mine was ready to be flavored at 10 days. It was surprisingly still super sweet, and not vinegary at all. Even though it smelled like pure vinegar! </div>
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I was planning on flavoring my kombucha with berries and lemons, however when I looked into using citrus to flavor your kombucha, it seemed like more work than I would be capable of right now. (You must be willing to burp your bottles everyday to prevent them from exploding! Not something I want to experiment with right now!) </div>
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I decided to flavor all of the kombucha with blackberries. YUM.</div>
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You need to rinse everything with hot water and vinegar before you do anything! </div>
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Then I pulled out my SCOBY's as gently as possible. You need to be sure your hands have been rinsed with vinegar and water before you pull it out. </div>
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I was extremely pleased to see how healthy my SCOBY was, but even more thrilled to see the HUGE, thriving SCOBY it birthed! </div>
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I am still really proud of that pretty culture! </div>
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There will be a lot of brown stringy things underneath your SCOBY, its just yeast and is actually a good sign. You can strain them out though, so don't get too grossed out. </div>
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Now you need to check the pH level one more time to ensure that your kombucha is perfect. I was happy to see that mine was. </div>
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Now put the fruit/herbs in your jars that your kombucha will do the second ferment in. I smashed about half of the blackberries before putting them into the jars, the rest I cut in half. </div>
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Once you pour the kombucha into the jars, seal them up and put them back in your warm fermenting spot. The colder your kombucha gets, the slower the fermentation process goes. This round of fermenting is all about flavor and getting it to be effervescent. You will want to check it everyday, and when it is good to you, put it in the fridge to slow down the fermenting. </div>
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Check in with me next week when I go into details about why I am so obsessed with making kombucha!<br>
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Thanks for reading,<br>
Chelsea</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-76139005942025162482015-01-07T12:40:00.001-08:002015-01-07T12:40:10.148-08:00Baby Led Weaning: the first month<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Baby led weaning is not weaning baby from breast milk or formula. A better way to say it is baby led solids. This is a no spoon feeding way of introducing your babe to solids.</div>
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It is most commonly recommended that you give your baby what you are eating while practicing baby led weaning. I think this is okay for older babies if you eat clean but I personally think it's awful for babies starting out.<br />
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The earliest you should start baby led weaning, or any solids, is 6 months. However, it is very common to wait even longer in the natural parenting community. Most people wait until their baby is expressing they are ready and interested in eating solids. If your baby is physically ready to try solids, he/she will: </div>
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<ul>
<li>Not be drooling anymore. This means they have learned how to swallow without sucking. </li>
<li>Can sit up.</li>
<li>Working on pincer grasp.</li>
<li>Tongue thrust reflex is gone.</li>
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Not all babies will have these by six months, that is why it is okay to wait until they are older. Not all babies are alike. They all develop and grow at their own pace. Look for these signs in your baby before you give them any solids. </div>
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Now onto the more fun part of this post! What are the best first foods? There are so many opinions and advice in this, but these are the top ten first foods you should try!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhreEWkc-hNMe1Sk6ZjDbn6vUXNyH9Aky0XME1NI0etOEmM1zRSTVjfOhHs2ajK4AltWepvSeDe_1L_nplA7CCUL_ren-cXVpXdgY_qquL8tS0g_HXzuDfQROvTV6OmtQEZZg3QJzgjK17Q/s1600/BLW-%C2%A0The+First+Month.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhreEWkc-hNMe1Sk6ZjDbn6vUXNyH9Aky0XME1NI0etOEmM1zRSTVjfOhHs2ajK4AltWepvSeDe_1L_nplA7CCUL_ren-cXVpXdgY_qquL8tS0g_HXzuDfQROvTV6OmtQEZZg3QJzgjK17Q/s1600/BLW-%C2%A0The+First+Month.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Another note: don't give baby too many new things at once. Start slow, adding a new food every few days to ensure there are no allergies or sensitivities.) </div>
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Avocado. Super healthy, and easy for baby to eat! We used mesh feeders for the first few times so they weren't so slippery! </div>
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<br />Butternut Squash. Heathy, easy to serve cubed, or pureed!</div>
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Banana. Soft and easy to eat. Serve cubed or a "banana handle" like I do! <div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Zucchini. Peel and sauté, bake, or steam! Amelia loves zucchini. </div>
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Yellow squash. Treat the same as zucchini! </div>
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Oatmeal. Using real oats, and not cooked in the microwave, oats are healthy and yummy! I add a little cinnamon and homemade vanilla or some smooshed up banana! </div>
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Peas. Steamed well these are great for learning the pincer grasp! They're also a great veggie to purée along with another vegetable or even a fruit. Amelia liked them blended with banana, frozen in ice tray, and served in a mesh feeder. Perfect for teething!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Carrots. Something to try toward the end of this first month. Steam them well so they are very easily mushed by gums! </div>
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Blueberries. Definitely not the first thing you should try but a good one for the first month. Blanch then cool to ensure the skin is very soft. </div>
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Broccoli. Another to do toward he end of this month. At this stage it's best to steam it very well so that it's very soft! </div>
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BLW is about feeding with respect. which is why there is no spoon involved. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you practice baby led weaning?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What was your little one's favorite first food?</span></div>
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xo,</div>
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Chelsea</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-57549006206157890302015-01-06T13:19:00.001-08:002015-12-01T14:58:26.930-08:00Making Kombucha Part One: The First Ferment<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5wI-bb5bL-JQ7rRtKTY5DkX7dCKFnGJGapSVRKhwkdF7P6K2_THXVf1D04cfGRE0jJXj5DGPODyOVQl0e1BBmpScnNaUJuapFe3fD56QxtPrOCnN9PB0VQxIydNDnQzLW-mLVB1MIuqk/s640/blogger-image--1492091612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwxc2OGqLVxgFfi8cNj64StgvqivmS_uwyRgBCvbF6AJZ0Q9wIK_VGzIpbI-DtmqYzuDKG3i3xw90MI5vztxg3_aNBZU39GRecnkvyTYb9J8IW-JxbT5vRj5XMFR5djLMxF6L4Df9g8ox/s640/blogger-image--744530250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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I have been obsessing about making kombucha for months and months. I was so thrilled that my husband got me this spectacular kombucha making lot for Christmas.</div>
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It literally comes with everything you could need to make your kombucha so it's super easy. </div>
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First lets get into what kombucha is, because I find everyone asking me about it when I mention it. Kombucha is a fermented tea probiotic beverage. </div>
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The benefits to drinking kombucha are endless. Here are a few:<br>
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<ul>
<li>Kills candida</li>
<li>Aids in digestion</li>
<li>Detoxifies</li>
<li>Strengthens immune system</li>
<li>Boosts energy</li>
<li>Fights cancer</li>
<li>Eases joint pains</li>
<li>Stress relief </li>
<li>Boosts metabolism</li>
<li>Weight loss</li>
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My husband has candida overgrowth, so my hope for him is that it really helps with that. For myself, I look forward to the detoxifying, energy and immune boosting properties of kombucha! </div>
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Kombucha ingredients:</div>
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<li>Black tea</li>
<li>Filtered water</li>
<li>Sugar </li>
<li>A <a href="http://beingmamablog.blogspot.com/2015/01/what-is-scoby.html">SCOBY</a></li>
<li>White vinegar </li>
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Tools needed: </div>
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<ul>
<li>Gallon jar </li>
<li>Tea cloth </li>
<li>Rubber band </li>
<li>Kettle or pot to brew tea </li>
<li>Long handled spoon</li>
<li>pH test strips </li>
<li>Sticker thermometer </li>
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Everything listed here was in my <a href="http://www.thekombuchashop.com/shop/home-brew-starter-kit">kombucha making kit</a>. They even send you a fresh SCOBY super fast, so you don'y have to worry about receiving a compromised dehydrated culture!<br>
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Directions:</div>
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Kombucha is surprisingly easy to make. Especially with this kit I got! </div>
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Kit from the kombucha shop.</div>
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Step one: Boil four cups of water to steep your tea in for about 5 minutes. </div>
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This is the loose tea leaves and cloth tea bag that came in my kit. You can use regular tea bags as well. </div>
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Step two: Add the sugar to your tea and stir well, until the sugar has dissolved. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJ2v4aKA0Qpz4PCzdrFCz-p5Dw5-SlaDFanKuk36j0EDQsgPax7qD2ln5RQZ1mKZtqRKNTgk3OqWh_aZREM8LKOnDlfLrG8EwPNbyHcxQGUyNZmUlTo3JVtLRMqY_6pmFAQsS0wh51WfK/s640/blogger-image--538081178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJ2v4aKA0Qpz4PCzdrFCz-p5Dw5-SlaDFanKuk36j0EDQsgPax7qD2ln5RQZ1mKZtqRKNTgk3OqWh_aZREM8LKOnDlfLrG8EwPNbyHcxQGUyNZmUlTo3JVtLRMqY_6pmFAQsS0wh51WfK/s320/blogger-image--538081178.jpg" width="240"></a></div>
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Step three: Pour sweet tea into your jug or jar and add filtered water until there is only three inches left at the top of the jar.<br>
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Step four: Gently add in your SCOBY and starter tea. Give it a gentle stir.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKKWvTbJNI8aaEO4HxKf36v8aYaOxEeNXHdXTykJzJCY3fm14zLPLM4yVIdfqDyZSogCLOpB19vFVuxiNff5kK6bK4FhV7PVDdHHe48FDbErLf7s-O-OppBhFm90tQCfeKfcOnY-3fPwp/s640/blogger-image-1552349779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKKWvTbJNI8aaEO4HxKf36v8aYaOxEeNXHdXTykJzJCY3fm14zLPLM4yVIdfqDyZSogCLOpB19vFVuxiNff5kK6bK4FhV7PVDdHHe48FDbErLf7s-O-OppBhFm90tQCfeKfcOnY-3fPwp/s320/blogger-image-1552349779.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
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Step five: dip in a pH test strip. It should be at a 4.5 or below! If it is higher than that, add a tablespoon of vinegar and test again.<br>
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Step six: cover your jar with the cloth and rubber band. Leave it somewhere warm with no direct sunlight. The temperature needs to stay between 68 and 88 degrees, so by a heater vent is best. You want it in a low or no traffic area. Some people use an electric blanket to keep theirs warm enough.<br>
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Check on your kombucha in one week. It can take 7-20 days during the first fermentation.<br>
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<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6djNInBCnWwMZ_D6DXKfgGcRAdjGnQ_YOzmSZtupnZT7oqLKzl_U_HwkfzaBp6imbRY6LmNzftqUf9bJICKXyU2zabZ9maQMP5Id1TEDJB5kQUrKzUW4O39AhroaI3PZMBpe3EQztf9E/s320/blogger-image-1734870820.jpg" width="240"></div>
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There it is! I think it is so pretty, and I am so obsessed. I hope the next week goes by fast. </div>
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Keep up on my kombucha journey by following me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook under Being Mama Blog! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you brewed your own kombucha?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Share your experience and tips below! </span></div>
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xo, </div>
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Chelsea</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-16209226689271322822015-01-06T13:10:00.001-08:002015-01-06T13:10:21.700-08:00What is a SCOBY?Oh SCOBY! I have people asking me about these pretty things ALL THE TIME! So, to go along with all of my kombucha posts in the next few weeks, I thought I should make a separate post just about these babies.<br />
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SCOBY stands for symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. It is often referred to as "the mother." I am sure most of you have heard about or know about apple cider vinegar with the mother. If you purchase or look at ACV with the mother, you will notice it has a lot of stringy looking things in it. That is the yeast culture they are calling the mother.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ouv1CyQ98FfhYDimO9iRLW7_mcbe-joxXb05mKEwFGXLom2UT1JqO-rT5GT5p-cbwwHjTyb8gBqSi_6pud4Zvkvaj6vxPsLBSDU2eFJehaob8KWXUenhjSrGHF8nQiNgYe3jjndmYErP/s640/blogger-image--1098902300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ouv1CyQ98FfhYDimO9iRLW7_mcbe-joxXb05mKEwFGXLom2UT1JqO-rT5GT5p-cbwwHjTyb8gBqSi_6pud4Zvkvaj6vxPsLBSDU2eFJehaob8KWXUenhjSrGHF8nQiNgYe3jjndmYErP/s320/blogger-image--1098902300.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is what your SCOBY will look like when you order yours from the kombucha shop! </div>
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It is in there with starter tea. </div>
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A kombucha SCOBY looks like a <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-your-own-kombucha-scoby-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-202596">disk.</a> Mine came in starter tea from the kombucha kit my husband bought me, which is the most ideal way to buy one. If you get a dehydrated SCOBY online, they can become compromised and ruin your kombucha. As you will see in that link though, a SCOBY is very easy to make! It just takes some time and some love.<br />
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The best thing about a SCOBY is that while you are brewing your kombucha, another SCOBY will form! This gives you a chance to make more and more batches, and share them with friends in need. Because seriously you guys, finding a SCOBY that is healthy is more difficult than it should be!<br />
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There are some rules in taking care of a SCOBY:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Your SCOBY needs to eat sugar. YES, sugar! It feeds the good bacteria, and during the fermenting process there will become less and less sugar in your kombucha. </li>
<li>When you bottle your kombucha, leave enough tea in with your SCOBY to be the next brews "starter tea."</li>
<li>Don't let your SCOBY get too hot. </li>
<li>Don't place near direct sunlight. </li>
<li>Do NOT wash any of your kombucha brewing jars with soap. Hot water and vinegar work well, but the antibacterial soap will kill your precious SCOBY! </li>
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Those are the basics. I don't want to get too into it and become confusing or overwhelming! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCEGKdMLj0cXmOamm5UvKOVkyjUyk_GCrZUDpdSaWBsn1AhYRYIv1ltnnTIqB5xTTLk5VK82547yy_vOJGqbmEkgR_4tbHqDeErTjcPkbKie3Xvmw9YueBGXPvTBGX5dJ2L8m3nzZSxcBa/s640/blogger-image-792687567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCEGKdMLj0cXmOamm5UvKOVkyjUyk_GCrZUDpdSaWBsn1AhYRYIv1ltnnTIqB5xTTLk5VK82547yy_vOJGqbmEkgR_4tbHqDeErTjcPkbKie3Xvmw9YueBGXPvTBGX5dJ2L8m3nzZSxcBa/s320/blogger-image-792687567.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is my SCOBY in my kombucha all ready to ferment!</div>
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Continue following my kombucha journey by following me on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook!</div>
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Thanks for reading!<br />
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xo,<br />
Chelsea<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-65152594904794318872015-01-01T10:00:00.000-08:002015-01-01T10:00:22.867-08:00Chocolate Salted Caramel CakeHello readers!<br />
I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas with their families and friends. We sure did! I took a little break from writing while my husband was home from work so that I could spend all my free time with my two favorite people!<br />
I know that this time of year is when we are all thinking of life style changes. For most this means changing what you are eating. However, I can't resist sharing this recipe with you. It is so easy, it's ridiculous. Plus it is delicious.<br />
Like most other sane humans, I love salted caramel. I have been making this cake with regular caramel for years, but recently came to the realization that adding salt would make it even better, somehow!<br />
Typically I make everything from scratch, but this one is not the case. Some people prefer that, and it makes it so easy and fast to whip together, but this cake tastes like you spent all day working on it!<br />
I hope you enjoy this indulgence, even though I am sure you wish I wasn't sharing it with you right now!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpj9cS44vMuN7heTJM4XtIIeirmzSvJATmkG_QBgclAu1-HRidKarSCJRrwCNd99ZGWPwhdr654GbDnmYE6NcnCTX1Co-S_JhcejZsa6m1yL0n13yGTpPNgGqVCBaGJNEpwr0y4mpKzsjZ/s1600/Salted+Caramel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpj9cS44vMuN7heTJM4XtIIeirmzSvJATmkG_QBgclAu1-HRidKarSCJRrwCNd99ZGWPwhdr654GbDnmYE6NcnCTX1Co-S_JhcejZsa6m1yL0n13yGTpPNgGqVCBaGJNEpwr0y4mpKzsjZ/s1600/Salted+Caramel.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ingredients:</div>
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1 box chocolate cake (I use Betty Crocker Chocolate Fudge) </div>
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3 eggs</div>
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1 1/4 C. hot water</div>
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1/2 C. coconut oil</div>
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1 box chocolate pudding powder</div>
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1 can sweetened condensed milk</div>
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1 jar salted caramel sauce </div>
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Sea salt (I use pink Himalayan)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJfRkOQZrCz3UGK9Ih52uMAWCilEk4t3shu7bbbX5aEDqXiUHFonuRapOfvJcNfbH9h13BXLePejqe4LVhkFW9j159L4cUjq6CBcNOQgwRsL3_wfAjDt5b4cf8OpEDORXuHdMQ7uwZ62Y/s640/blogger-image--1264181022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJfRkOQZrCz3UGK9Ih52uMAWCilEk4t3shu7bbbX5aEDqXiUHFonuRapOfvJcNfbH9h13BXLePejqe4LVhkFW9j159L4cUjq6CBcNOQgwRsL3_wfAjDt5b4cf8OpEDORXuHdMQ7uwZ62Y/s320/blogger-image--1264181022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Melt the coconut oil into the hot water. </div>
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You could use vegetable oil as well, I just prefer coconut oil. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVt35j5cUlWOpG8PP4fLi_nj7gQFrQ9npyD56MV_zNM2501RSZa26K3jDVHdy-qUNpifCK0Sc7w_gQIz1s15R_FmIMuWQpilhrn1BDRX5QWbADYrGrCYvbVzwIZP64YVAADeaNpM9lGGbR/s640/blogger-image--476468829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVt35j5cUlWOpG8PP4fLi_nj7gQFrQ9npyD56MV_zNM2501RSZa26K3jDVHdy-qUNpifCK0Sc7w_gQIz1s15R_FmIMuWQpilhrn1BDRX5QWbADYrGrCYvbVzwIZP64YVAADeaNpM9lGGbR/s320/blogger-image--476468829.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Add the water/oil mixture to the cake mix and dry pudding powder. </div>
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Beat in the eggs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3G8m-HJlZxeyqBFy4SUE9GApfxc1vj6zw7Hkwi1x17pBm4bAKXYog_FOQbwX7uhXLsgM4xL305XhObp4WTY4EmKkRZXtfyAMMhRlgwYa351USvlbIN7UupTSzAYzga08cNy8mRTtxWr-/s640/blogger-image-2010694998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3G8m-HJlZxeyqBFy4SUE9GApfxc1vj6zw7Hkwi1x17pBm4bAKXYog_FOQbwX7uhXLsgM4xL305XhObp4WTY4EmKkRZXtfyAMMhRlgwYa351USvlbIN7UupTSzAYzga08cNy8mRTtxWr-/s320/blogger-image-2010694998.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pour batter into buttered or greased pan. </div>
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Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Check with a fork or toothpick to be sure it is cooked completely. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eGloPoMCt3MoIej5jnjA6Aq_ZbZ0d7ixkBhzx05xOmVlOmcmA-DFXZZMFiaaCEL4JwlRnedMvWyz-8cNifcfPN9aCL-dilP9VL0TlhJpMn5JFCI_ltXVqfZZRz2z_FbxKgXJFL_u8sAy/s640/blogger-image-1511257830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eGloPoMCt3MoIej5jnjA6Aq_ZbZ0d7ixkBhzx05xOmVlOmcmA-DFXZZMFiaaCEL4JwlRnedMvWyz-8cNifcfPN9aCL-dilP9VL0TlhJpMn5JFCI_ltXVqfZZRz2z_FbxKgXJFL_u8sAy/s320/blogger-image-1511257830.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Let the cake cool for at least 20 minutes. Using a fork, poke holes halfway through, all over the top of the cake! You need it to be completely cooled for this part. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitW-6udNiWz5ZlaIpe1lhwA5EDQGv5QRjwbfYkFbJenzneM6uo3zZbZ-IAAjnQBq88QYSOKekbeafYuct4ZlnnatTffiaiMx1k987Lvn8l84d9srvXzfJJfXKCJbCUlp4ak2N9pDX2vaMP/s640/blogger-image--25678720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitW-6udNiWz5ZlaIpe1lhwA5EDQGv5QRjwbfYkFbJenzneM6uo3zZbZ-IAAjnQBq88QYSOKekbeafYuct4ZlnnatTffiaiMx1k987Lvn8l84d9srvXzfJJfXKCJbCUlp4ak2N9pDX2vaMP/s320/blogger-image--25678720.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Mix the caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk together. I usually add an extra pinch or two of salt! Because I love it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihGPTJMtxL1bwPe2KsqOd-6j9QwBnveZ5xy9nEiQSnJNvbSeGVB_vxDvTmyM3bzAu4BOXCm6s6SC4XVjEPen3kXu-iqJK-wYOJOrorNLTsFcmiUZDAa48aHJh507m3lSa-v_YAKijo_NW/s640/blogger-image--486693262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihGPTJMtxL1bwPe2KsqOd-6j9QwBnveZ5xy9nEiQSnJNvbSeGVB_vxDvTmyM3bzAu4BOXCm6s6SC4XVjEPen3kXu-iqJK-wYOJOrorNLTsFcmiUZDAa48aHJh507m3lSa-v_YAKijo_NW/s320/blogger-image--486693262.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pour all that delicious mixture over the cake. It will seep through all those little poke holes. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLVkeQJfOyMPMnLLtwG1ELlSPOlJ4xpEvRfAdLH1_-477yZvwT1j7GyKcYLQjmGDym7L0n2yWcNliuF24V7eG3VWmUEuAkCKG9bWTG-ZHuNDxrMq8q946RsVWhEf1YkFmy8oja2TKlNYh/s640/blogger-image-393037377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLVkeQJfOyMPMnLLtwG1ELlSPOlJ4xpEvRfAdLH1_-477yZvwT1j7GyKcYLQjmGDym7L0n2yWcNliuF24V7eG3VWmUEuAkCKG9bWTG-ZHuNDxrMq8q946RsVWhEf1YkFmy8oja2TKlNYh/s320/blogger-image-393037377.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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YUM. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJ9utdC8FrWESajxMcu1IAFY0keqMI_UQTDQ_0LjshFURxbJNM9dffPmAYpaH1BmJvJgzhRdk8ZSMxcp7DkkYKo0Ypn3cqjViRWGyE_f6zA0Q5lUWWo8E1Bjhgwm7kZa9GHKHjjV0yra4/s640/blogger-image--2077594106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGJ9utdC8FrWESajxMcu1IAFY0keqMI_UQTDQ_0LjshFURxbJNM9dffPmAYpaH1BmJvJgzhRdk8ZSMxcp7DkkYKo0Ypn3cqjViRWGyE_f6zA0Q5lUWWo8E1Bjhgwm7kZa9GHKHjjV0yra4/s320/blogger-image--2077594106.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Again, I add a layer of salt to the top! You don't have to add that much though. I might be a bit obsessed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBiInopu3Ryj9yODaEJf-vu5Q20MRpaGJdGiqw3an1-BGDGwlkhvSmorHzaPLhTbOg6LfE-TuW1zSKEoWEGpFyAWhPVEdXlnVkgxYlKseRTylcQuFWdzVNJddwDiZ0ImehuyQoBQgD-U6u/s640/blogger-image--490424926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBiInopu3Ryj9yODaEJf-vu5Q20MRpaGJdGiqw3an1-BGDGwlkhvSmorHzaPLhTbOg6LfE-TuW1zSKEoWEGpFyAWhPVEdXlnVkgxYlKseRTylcQuFWdzVNJddwDiZ0ImehuyQoBQgD-U6u/s320/blogger-image--490424926.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is SO GOOD! </div>
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The longer you let the sauce settle, the better. I personally think this cake is best the next day! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6iyiQmmbEXpB-wX3dRlrWw_Z8dOJqxrjujku8OYYTsHdILi_RTZeZqPD6BacUEjF756XuzrnvW3szHBQKvbszj_nfvl81yw1JLQ8H9s43HvZ_bDCZDr-fYEWMlZ7T_xEr_V_LTsY4EvV/s640/blogger-image--548140282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6iyiQmmbEXpB-wX3dRlrWw_Z8dOJqxrjujku8OYYTsHdILi_RTZeZqPD6BacUEjF756XuzrnvW3szHBQKvbszj_nfvl81yw1JLQ8H9s43HvZ_bDCZDr-fYEWMlZ7T_xEr_V_LTsY4EvV/s320/blogger-image--548140282.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yeah. Not the prettiest photo, but this is all I could get after people devoured it last night! </div>
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Please forgive me for sharing this MUST MAKE recipe with you. And making it so easy that you will have to go make it today. Oops. </div>
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It's so worth it. I promise. </div>
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Enjoy! </div>
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Happy new year! </div>
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Chelsea</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-30670521902282972592014-12-20T12:48:00.000-08:002014-12-20T12:48:17.776-08:00Coconut Oil Uses<span style="background-color: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">COCONUT OIL. </span><br />
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I'm a bit obsessed with coconut oil, like most crunchy mamas are. I use it for everything and tend to have a bottle in the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and nursery. I am sure you have all read plenty of uses for coconut oil, and plenty of positive information on it. Coconut oil kills bacteria, candida, improves digestion, moisturizes, burns fat, and so much more. It can be used for more things than you might realize!</div>
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<span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701960784313725);"> </span>Well, here is one more list of the uses of coconut oil categorized by room, with a few you most likely haven't heard of before. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheT0H8DKw22l_gw22172y8Vfi_92iufBzpCGuIHjxxpVrcsweuXyOkk5O_Q8C3hJlID-608mihQzsM4GjigYkwK8itcc7IViig00ttNesVP08hsSSyPT8rqEgiXDchfJVLm3R3PS3pJ5XC/s1600/halfway+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheT0H8DKw22l_gw22172y8Vfi_92iufBzpCGuIHjxxpVrcsweuXyOkk5O_Q8C3hJlID-608mihQzsM4GjigYkwK8itcc7IViig00ttNesVP08hsSSyPT8rqEgiXDchfJVLm3R3PS3pJ5XC/s1600/halfway+(1).png" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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In the kitchen:</div>
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1. Cooking oil </div>
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2. Butter substitute (in baking too!)</div>
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3. Add in smoothies </div>
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4. Mix in oatmeal</div>
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5. Polish stainless steel </div>
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6. Clean/polish wood table</div>
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7. Homemade formula</div>
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8. Healthy popcorn topping </div>
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9. Coffee creamer </div>
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10. Healthy, homemade mayonnaise</div>
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11. Throat lozenge</div>
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12. Keeping eggs fresh (by covering each egg shell in a small amount of oil, it will keep them fresh 1-2 weeks longer!) </div>
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13. Ingesting 1 T. a day</div>
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In the bedroom and bathroom:</div>
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1. Toothpaste </div>
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2. Oil pulling </div>
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3. Moisturizer </div>
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4. Skin treatment/mask</div>
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5. Shaving cream </div>
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6. DIY lip balm </div>
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7. DIY cream blush </div>
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8. DIY lotion </div>
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9. In the bath water </div>
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10. Hair mask</div>
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11. In lieu of conditioner </div>
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12. Eye makeup remover</div>
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13. Oil pulling </div>
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14. Mouth wash </div>
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15. Makeup remover</div>
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16. Wrinkle reducer</div>
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17. Natural deodorant</div>
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18. Natural salve for wounds</div>
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19. Cold sore treatment</div>
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20. Children's hair de-tangler</div>
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21. DIY exfoliator</div>
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22. Makeup brush cleaner</div>
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23. Natural vapor rub </div>
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24. Stretch mark cream</div>
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<span style="font-size: 17px;">25. Balm for chapped nursing nipples </span></div>
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26. Personal lubricant</div>
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27. Massage oil </div>
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28. Scentsy wax replacement (used with essential oil)</div>
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29. Heartburn treatment</div>
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30. Carrier oil for all essential oils</div>
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Nursery </div>
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1. Diaper rash cream (coconut oil is good to use with cloth too) </div>
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2. Wipe solution </div>
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3. Lotion</div>
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4. Used with one drop of lavender essential oil for bed time infant massage</div>
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5. Teething remedy</div>
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6. Constipation help </div>
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7. Cures yeast problems (candida and thrush)</div>
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8. Cures cradle cap</div>
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9. Consuming oil (mom) can increase milk supply for nursing mothers</div>
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10. Cure and treat baby acne and eczema</div>
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There are almost endless uses for coconut oil. I hope that there are some on this list you may not have heard of before, and that you will start using the magical coconut oil more in your home! We love it here! </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What is your favorite use for coconut oil? Do you use it a lot? In every room?</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Share below!</span></b></div>
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Thanks for reading!</div>
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Chelsea</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-80861243524608150152014-12-18T14:36:00.001-08:002014-12-18T14:36:07.505-08:00Fun Christmas Traditions <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Christmas is LITERALLY right around the corner, and since before Amelia was born, I have been thinking long and hard about traditions to start with our little family. I love Christmas. It is my favorite time of year, and I am so excited to have a baby to share it with this year! </div>
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Although I cannot do most of these this year, I look forward to them in the future, and I hope Amelia (and all other children we have) really appreciate them and love them as much as I know I will! </div>
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I am sure most of these people already know about, but in thinking up ones for us to start, I really wanted to:</div>
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A. Focus on the true meaning of Christmas as much as I could, without taking away too much of the child-friendly (or the stuff that is "just for fun") out of it. </div>
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B. Think of unique, new ideas that not EVERY family does. I really want to do different things with our kids. I think that makes it more special! </div>
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Here is what I have come up with. Maybe you will want to use some for your family! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheSZBshE4B9PeJigoIKdP3kqo8qeYjd4Wth0GnfKo8UBl-TuZx-95ko9wuR7MU6g8sOhVRWsbKZZv8DnKnYS6IVwDlVZDpLX30ja5TPHRzYDlG3-hsWWKPPtbUu2JwUX4QlpdMfW8fpkLE/s1600/ChristmasConcert.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheSZBshE4B9PeJigoIKdP3kqo8qeYjd4Wth0GnfKo8UBl-TuZx-95ko9wuR7MU6g8sOhVRWsbKZZv8DnKnYS6IVwDlVZDpLX30ja5TPHRzYDlG3-hsWWKPPtbUu2JwUX4QlpdMfW8fpkLE/s1600/ChristmasConcert.png" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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1. CHRISTMAS EVE BOX. </div>
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So many families these days do pajamas on Christmas eve. I like this idea, however I wanted something a bit more. This year, and from now on, we are going to do Christmas eve boxes. We are doing pajamas and a book for Amelia this year, but this will change a little as she gets older. Some ideas (depending on the age of your child, and their interests) pajamas, movie, book, a special Christmas treat to have with the movie, hot chocolate, a Christmas craft to make together, cookie mix, stuff to decorate gingerbread houses, and a kit to make reindeer food. </div>
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The possibilities are endless, and I am excited to do some fun new things with it each year as Millie gets older! </div>
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2. HOMEMADE ORNAMENTS.</div>
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This one is pretty broad as well. There are a lot of crafts you make into ornaments, and with salt dough. I like that about this one. I think it will be so amazing to look back at each one that your kids make each year. </div>
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Plus, I just think art time with kids is so important. It is a great time for them to express creatively, learn, and spend time with you! </div>
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Even with small babies, like I have, you can do hand/foot prints. You can leave it at that, or make them into reindeer or a Santa!</div>
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3. GINGERBREAD.<br />
Make homemade gingerbread houses, people, villages, whatever! You can even just buy the kits and make those. Either way, I love doing this. I did this each year with children at my preschool, and the kids I have nannied. Everyone always had a great time with this yummy activity.<br />
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To make it even easier, you can use graham crackers and a milk carton to make a "gingerbread" house! There are a ton of fun, cute ideas on Pinterest as well!<br />
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4. FESTIVAL OF TREES.<br />
I have been involved in this great Utah tradition for a few years, and I love it so much. I cannot wait for Amelia to participate with me each year. Last year, while I was pregnant with her, we did a small tree for our angel baby. It was so amazing.<br />
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Next year, we intend to do a gingerbread house. I will be letting Amelia choose the theme!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXc1jC7ypcORHVZS9lia3CDKTcxuV8k8d6KBiWmpZBG0QRXwFhA0UA6DF1GYE4WHhAtuWUWO02yuZEdu9pD80KegL6zcfEBDL9f1Pe6kSqiZEO61MkZ4UCC2dFkaJj4bysDuIXLXXaml_8/s1600/1489137_827338327292430_1958270087_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXc1jC7ypcORHVZS9lia3CDKTcxuV8k8d6KBiWmpZBG0QRXwFhA0UA6DF1GYE4WHhAtuWUWO02yuZEdu9pD80KegL6zcfEBDL9f1Pe6kSqiZEO61MkZ4UCC2dFkaJj4bysDuIXLXXaml_8/s1600/1489137_827338327292430_1958270087_n.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdecAk9iCMWid1_Ecq1AHcc-NBP4mtOcbNVz4-0R-tI4Pz_AkGjlmuNDt053wWZngqLL2ZndZs-RaqS4M4JfBGuhyphenhyphenRoXI2M1Ut5O4pPQobm88d3Qg0BnL1NE6SLzk5jcxm2x18SjRvavE/s1600/995262_827338203959109_968422602_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdecAk9iCMWid1_Ecq1AHcc-NBP4mtOcbNVz4-0R-tI4Pz_AkGjlmuNDt053wWZngqLL2ZndZs-RaqS4M4JfBGuhyphenhyphenRoXI2M1Ut5O4pPQobm88d3Qg0BnL1NE6SLzk5jcxm2x18SjRvavE/s1600/995262_827338203959109_968422602_n.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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5. RIDE THE NORTH POLE EXPRESS. </div>
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Another awesome thing in Utah at Christmas time! I have personally never been (yet!) but I know a ton of people who take their kids every year. They love it. The only thing is tickets sell out really fast, so you will have to get them early! </div>
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I am excited for this in years to come, but with a baby it is not ideal. She will appreciate it in the next few years! </div>
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The Polar Express is my favorite Christmas movie of all time!</div>
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6. DELIVER CHRISTMAS TREATS. </div>
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To family, friends, neighbors, or your local church! In past years I have baked banana and zucchini bread, but this year we are thinking homemade salted caramel with apples! </div>
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If you have a favorite recipe, it is a great time to share your special treats. It is also the perfect gift! Who doesn't love homemade goodies at Christmas? Seriously. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBf2m77Q2ZPIAI2_318wfmQnCOUM37P-r4qxqUpTxTHxk5CnDVbEMLKJkZBdNUqUu9X9QtTF2kb7sRVR8tneqmUy8bdmJH-NdnkpsRlZYlJfa0A9KIFV_ljUbuKJLimR7I4-5Ew8vIkWH7/s1600/1471969_10151790388260474_1411923954_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBf2m77Q2ZPIAI2_318wfmQnCOUM37P-r4qxqUpTxTHxk5CnDVbEMLKJkZBdNUqUu9X9QtTF2kb7sRVR8tneqmUy8bdmJH-NdnkpsRlZYlJfa0A9KIFV_ljUbuKJLimR7I4-5Ew8vIkWH7/s1600/1471969_10151790388260474_1411923954_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sometimes it's hard not to eat it all before delivering it! </div>
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7. KINDNESS ELVES.<br />
Many of you do "Elf on a Shelf" but I liked this idea I read about so much more! Basically you have little elves that suggest acts of service for you and your child(ren) to do that day or week. You can do it how often you want, and there are a TON of great ideas to do!<br />
Your kindness elves can suggest:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>donate some old toys</li>
<li>visit an elderly friend or neighbor</li>
<li>bring someone an anonymous treat</li>
<li>make holiday cards for soldiers </li>
<li>donate old coats/hats/gloves to those less fortunate</li>
</ul>
<br />
Any act of service/volunteering is great! I really fell in love with this idea, and cant wait to start it in our house!<br />
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8. DIY SNOW GLOBES.<br />
I made these last year, and thought they would be a great craft for older kids, and teenagers! I know that it can be difficult sometimes to get your older children or teenagers to do something like this with the family, but they will love this craft! I love my homemade snow globes!! Find out how to make theme in this <a href="http://beingmamablog.blogspot.com/2014/12/diy-snow-globes.html">post</a> here!<br />
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9. SALT DOUGH ORNAMENTS.<br />
Easy to make, and endless possibilities! Who doesn't love these DIY ornaments?! I even will share the super easy recipe with you <a href="http://beingmamablog.blogspot.com/2014/12/diy-salt-dough-ornaments.html">here</a>!!!<br />
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10. JESUS' BIRTHDAY CAKE.<br />
Bringing the true meaning of Christmas to life! I love this idea so much! You can bake a cake beforehand, or make one on Christmas day. Decorate, and enjoy it with your family! You could even sing Jesus happy birthday!<br />
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11. CANDY CANE HUNT.<br />
A treasure hunt for candy canes! I would even do the mini ones, or mix it up will all kinds! You can make this as hard, easy, long, or short as you want.<br />
<br />
12. NEW YEARS TIME CAPSULE.<br />
Get a box, fill it with a few things from the year, and write down your child's favorite things, a special memory, etc. place in the box, wrap, and store. On Christmas the following year, you can have you child open the time capsule! This is especially fun for older children who can really understand the concept.<br />
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13. PLAY A NEW BOARD GAME.<br />
I think that a board game is a great item to place in a Christmas Eve box! To tie two traditions together, you could spend some time Christmas Eve connecting as a family over a fun new game everyone will enjoy!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What's a unique and fun tradition that your family does?</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Share with me!</span></b><br />
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Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Happy Holidays,<br />
Chelsea<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-75680187773339079252014-12-18T14:32:00.002-08:002014-12-18T14:32:37.251-08:00DIY Salt Dough OrnamentsSalt dough is SO easy and so fun to make! I even made them with my 8 month old. Not all of them (okay only ONE) got her full little hand print on it. She loved them, was picking up the dough, and just wanted to pinch them and do it herself!<br />
<br />
So I let her!! It was so fun, and I know the grandparents and great grandparents will cherish these gifts!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxfbSTmcEqw2G71tsPjD1YIOkmen7vKM1IxG9FInHgVctAJxzw6yWxuqS8nsT0gZh51bOwOVjRLNOVRvtS9E2zSf77jEXbi9rBcoZDBaqfDeHjM_crRboTIVqKdUWcETV6Domgz64uD31/s1600/BEING+MAMA+BLOG+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxfbSTmcEqw2G71tsPjD1YIOkmen7vKM1IxG9FInHgVctAJxzw6yWxuqS8nsT0gZh51bOwOVjRLNOVRvtS9E2zSf77jEXbi9rBcoZDBaqfDeHjM_crRboTIVqKdUWcETV6Domgz64uD31/s1600/BEING+MAMA+BLOG+(1).png" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Ingredients:<br />
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1 C. Flour<br />
1/2 C. Water<br />
1/2 C. Table Salt<br />
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Cookie cutters<br />
Paint/glitter to decorate<br />
Twine/ribbon to hang<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyQ5TZVTOOuxzhw-bCSa03KCzhT4eR8zFTjZoiFGAKpBf3n6rgnQ4DOWTWggz9g8_zu9u4sa3yz__fg7veXwzngkFm2gKLnXe-FH7Rl6kxFScVaWCGyynJtJXwRX1VsaxwoUD0e7HILvB/s640/blogger-image-427562253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyQ5TZVTOOuxzhw-bCSa03KCzhT4eR8zFTjZoiFGAKpBf3n6rgnQ4DOWTWggz9g8_zu9u4sa3yz__fg7veXwzngkFm2gKLnXe-FH7Rl6kxFScVaWCGyynJtJXwRX1VsaxwoUD0e7HILvB/s320/blogger-image-427562253.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mix all together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixc9QvxGRN_M6ZChbpsXAW9QW-Tso2yaCoOPyfvUFpiW4jlZuH2EcFqU8TYNFAWaLNGLurpyE_vOTTVemTJO_PVqdjbcKtvGeTtEPJZIjMt1YhSXGzz7bBRejHiDyuIIn_djNHkAy1esUy/s640/blogger-image--2073652601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixc9QvxGRN_M6ZChbpsXAW9QW-Tso2yaCoOPyfvUFpiW4jlZuH2EcFqU8TYNFAWaLNGLurpyE_vOTTVemTJO_PVqdjbcKtvGeTtEPJZIjMt1YhSXGzz7bBRejHiDyuIIn_djNHkAy1esUy/s320/blogger-image--2073652601.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Lay out some parchment paper on your counter to avoid a mess, and roll the dough out to be about 1/4 inch thick.</div>
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Using cookie cutters, cut out all your ornaments. We did some in circles, to put hand prints on!</div>
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Using a drinking straw, make a hole near the top.</div>
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Bake for about 2-3 hours (until dry and hard) at 250 degrees.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Cool and paint!</div>
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Naturally, her hand prints are golden!!!</div>
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It really is THAT simple! I hope many of you enjoy making these with your children and share the joy! They make perfect gifts!<br />
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Happy Holidays,<br />
Chelsea</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12473808190874106699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1428802086033413500.post-58509843302770712832014-12-18T14:27:00.001-08:002014-12-18T14:27:16.804-08:00DIY Snow GlobesI LOVE my DIY snow globes. They are so easy, fun, and cheap to make.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xFtDHpJkKZOHg7ls62bmL0EaIavbLrurkdnBmfOJMnumH3ixM8UYI8Fs_d4SK1EWBPv15uHh60Lzb7XcEHGWToXAwOQsruZua-yfZNL1LsjG81H3jIQv4ULXaOhNjgsbHIDptrU6fVJW/s640/blogger-image--420808149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6xFtDHpJkKZOHg7ls62bmL0EaIavbLrurkdnBmfOJMnumH3ixM8UYI8Fs_d4SK1EWBPv15uHh60Lzb7XcEHGWToXAwOQsruZua-yfZNL1LsjG81H3jIQv4ULXaOhNjgsbHIDptrU6fVJW/s320/blogger-image--420808149.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is what you will need:<br />
A jar<br />
Some glitter<br />
Water<br />
Small trees, houses, etc.<br />
Hot glue<br />
Optional: ribbon and twine<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Glue your small item(s) to the inside of the jar lid.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Pour in a little glitter. I used chunky glitter that resembled fake snow!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hLpJPjMTvFSS4zlv3NTnGclYwRKCVHOhECTzq6Fu-Y8RrOcKlwMiz3LkisZAAhHDPIjRzir-_H-xJdhGCnqAy1sH9EFBMjBJB9CY57UHa1vOHM0lFB5pqtb684A3sel8rG2K_VzMWAMp/s640/blogger-image--2138413869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hLpJPjMTvFSS4zlv3NTnGclYwRKCVHOhECTzq6Fu-Y8RrOcKlwMiz3LkisZAAhHDPIjRzir-_H-xJdhGCnqAy1sH9EFBMjBJB9CY57UHa1vOHM0lFB5pqtb684A3sel8rG2K_VzMWAMp/s640/blogger-image--2138413869.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Fill jar full of water!</div>
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Put a little hot glue on the lip of the jar, and screw lid on tight!</div>
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I added some ribbon to one of mine!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZFtYPCQx13vGYxx4LSt4BZeML52Fb55y8Hsc7f-3mj6Usb2_2WfvLrE0AIuRxaVzFZGEYaEaMfFzdDVj6jw7hwHDIcm4WVoRlQOGLlLOT04cXc7K5z38_0UcVAi2KzsSGE0UcQ042NaX/s640/blogger-image--718716549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZFtYPCQx13vGYxx4LSt4BZeML52Fb55y8Hsc7f-3mj6Usb2_2WfvLrE0AIuRxaVzFZGEYaEaMfFzdDVj6jw7hwHDIcm4WVoRlQOGLlLOT04cXc7K5z38_0UcVAi2KzsSGE0UcQ042NaX/s640/blogger-image--718716549.jpg" /></a></div>
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Such a fun, and SUPER cute, holiday decoration! You could get really creative, and use so many things, for different snow globe themes, and use them throughout the year! Well, if you love snow globes as much as I do!<br />
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Happy Holidays,<br />
Chelsea</div>
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