tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49153906745468679162024-03-05T20:18:40.732-07:00Brad & Holly Shafer FamilyThe Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.comBlogger270125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-68274513799182821392013-05-01T23:21:00.000-06:002013-05-01T23:21:42.422-06:00Our Anniversary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyOZ3OOu6WWFWzB4erGQkxilsBshDv9QwpulzsspQQF6M7wrsM11Tg6DAGHkO539l-IC8-8QTa6Ro27gfHiaYmvxmtavzKJs7bSCh0faw48Fo0RT2QMKGDf5o2dgluua_2_pD4x67TbIe/s1600/Wisteria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyOZ3OOu6WWFWzB4erGQkxilsBshDv9QwpulzsspQQF6M7wrsM11Tg6DAGHkO539l-IC8-8QTa6Ro27gfHiaYmvxmtavzKJs7bSCh0faw48Fo0RT2QMKGDf5o2dgluua_2_pD4x67TbIe/s400/Wisteria.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
The year we were married, spring came early and the trees and flowers were all in bloom. I remember the wisteria bush at my parents house was full of vibrant blossoms and looked like a purple waterfall on the side of their house. I can't remember it ever blooming like that before and I know it hasn't since. It was spectacular. Of course we took full advantage of it and used it as a back drop for several wedding photos. It was a beautiful representation of our wedding day. <br />
<br />
Time has flown by - faster each year. This year spring is slow to come. The early flowers are out but the trees and bushes have yet to bloom. It was sunny today but the temperatures were only in the 50s with a strong, cold wind blowing from the North. This year, there's no correlation between the weather and our marriage. My life with Brad is wonderful - fulfilling. He surprised me with a beautiful jade necklace to represent our 26 years or marriage. I love my life and I love my boys and as cliched as it sounds, they really are the light of my life. It gets better every year. Happy Anniversary to me - to us!The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-60123472152007779102013-03-03T18:25:00.000-07:002013-03-03T18:25:52.094-07:00Gooey Caramel Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxAP8ndPvRN35xZZXdR0Cs1WFZOeFYJlGZP2vYdnznirPqxqBivKmlKU0k6aC7bFXoLti6EKSecDIOzrSEyYJ3ZTSeyVSdvSV0Nw83Wg8WXvahYnSx6WuSqBBmp_GhTd2jWf8w1pONDTL/s1600/Gooey-Caramel-Cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxAP8ndPvRN35xZZXdR0Cs1WFZOeFYJlGZP2vYdnznirPqxqBivKmlKU0k6aC7bFXoLti6EKSecDIOzrSEyYJ3ZTSeyVSdvSV0Nw83Wg8WXvahYnSx6WuSqBBmp_GhTd2jWf8w1pONDTL/s400/Gooey-Caramel-Cake.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's another Pinterest post that stopped me in my tracks. The thought of a Gooey Caramel Cake sounds divine! Probably especially so since I've been dieting for the last month and am missing goodies like this big time right now. <br />
<br />
Anyway, I had to take a minute to add this one to my list of recipes to try. Doesn't it just make your mouth water thinking about it? :)<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://pinrecipes.blogspot.com/2013/01/gooey-caramel-cake.html" target="_blank">Found Here</a></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Gooey Caramel Cake</b></span></span></div>
<h4 style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 39px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>Ingredients</u></span></h4>
<div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For the cake:</b><br />1 cup butter, room temperature<br />2 cups sugar<br />4 eggs<br />3 cups sifted self-rising flour<br />1-cup milk<br />1-teaspoon vanilla extract</span></div>
<div style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For the filling:</b><br />1 cup butter<br />2 cups packed light brown sugar<br />1/4 cup milk<br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></div>
<div style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For the frosting:</b><br />1/2 cup butter<br />1 cup packed dark brown sugar<br />1/3 cup heavy cream<br />16 oz confectioners’ sugar<br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></div>
</div>
<h2 style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 29px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><u>DIRECTIONS</u></span></h2>
<div itemprop="instructions" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="direction" style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<div style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the cake:</span></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Preheat
oven to 350. Grease and flour 3 (9-inch) cake pans. Cream butter and
sugar about 10 minutes until fluffy. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating well
after each addition. Add vanilla and beat until mixed. Add flour and
milk alternately to creamed mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
Divide batter equally among prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or
until golden brown.</span>
</div>
<div style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the filling:</span></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In
a saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and milk. Cook and stir over
medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.</span>
</div>
<div style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remove
cake layers from oven and invert one of the cakes onto plate. Pierce
cake layer with a fork over entire surface. Spread 1/3 of filling on
cake layer. Repeat the process with the second and third layer. </span></div>
<div style="border-width: 0px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the frosting:</span></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Melt
butter in a saucepan over medium heat and stir in brown sugar and
cream. Bring to a boil, and transfer to a mixing bowl. Add
confectioners’ sugar and vanilla. Beat with a hand-held electric mixer
until it reaches a spreading consistency.</span>
</div>
<div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Recipe from: </span><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://sugarbananas.blogspot.com/2010/09/gooey-caramel-cake.html" target="_blank">sugarbananas</a></span></span></div>
</div>
The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-38199345715372483662013-03-01T18:29:00.000-07:002013-03-03T18:32:59.119-07:00Six-Pack March<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11HQ31JFePiZrMC8JvKDGb6zvpMVgvhbnbKZGEZo_4BVAS9DLCRWOA9-9T84RYPapiRcOCl32VRSAr0tcwF0cHj8SEyLaofq1EaXSrFExcBUtPfJgc8ssjed60y9QxqU6BlV6vdWigNgw/s1600/Sit-up+Schedule.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11HQ31JFePiZrMC8JvKDGb6zvpMVgvhbnbKZGEZo_4BVAS9DLCRWOA9-9T84RYPapiRcOCl32VRSAr0tcwF0cHj8SEyLaofq1EaXSrFExcBUtPfJgc8ssjed60y9QxqU6BlV6vdWigNgw/s400/Sit-up+Schedule.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's an abdominal challenge for anyone who's trying to get in shape. I'm doing this calendar and hope I can at least firm up my soft and jiggly baby tummy by the end of the month. Come on and give it a try with me! :)The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-57205921671093175862013-02-22T17:58:00.000-07:002013-03-03T18:05:09.630-07:00Spotlight Week!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4Yg8bndSJQiaFiWETA9cqFik4_N2ZwpMPhDe1ySFD3CD2jHStVGF7xHaKR9zi0Z_FexILqCHSHhDgfrJsvRXanbLsNZbkAN_XDj8x61VbgYMtxUpStM3y6Xxa8RmeXs3vQg5kM2KbjvG/s1600/Winston+Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4Yg8bndSJQiaFiWETA9cqFik4_N2ZwpMPhDe1ySFD3CD2jHStVGF7xHaKR9zi0Z_FexILqCHSHhDgfrJsvRXanbLsNZbkAN_XDj8x61VbgYMtxUpStM3y6Xxa8RmeXs3vQg5kM2KbjvG/s400/Winston+Poster.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_139790427"></span><span id="goog_139790428"></span><br />
( Sorry it's another sideways picture! I need to figure out how to rotate them - it shows upright on my computer but pulls up sideways on the blog.) <br />
<br />
It was Winston's spotlight week and as part of it, we made a poster for him to take to school showing his family, friends and things he likes. He went through our photos and picked out these pictures to make his poster. I helped him tape them on and added the words. I think it turned out great (although I am just a little bit prejudice)! :)The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-52851992466428154842013-02-16T18:15:00.000-07:002013-03-03T18:16:51.309-07:00Chocolate Almond Pretzel Toffee<br />
I love a good peanut brittle and when I saw this recipe on Pinterest I couldn't help but stop and say, "Oh my!" This looks divine and I can't wait to give it a try. Easter is coming up next month so this one is going on my list to make. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoTl-dYkdWZY_FR1A0DxGiTNpUvI3Xn6GKfAKkS8JsHqJbcsnSU3MPJA3GcWUSIPbIZUPg8CmSz3UqSTNPYzKWfWJSKgoz48S1AroNjRwlFq3g-wIZSRY-Kw3oadSa-8BkZDE7vlvfY1Bf/s1600/Chocolate+Almond+Pretzel+Toffee+with+text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoTl-dYkdWZY_FR1A0DxGiTNpUvI3Xn6GKfAKkS8JsHqJbcsnSU3MPJA3GcWUSIPbIZUPg8CmSz3UqSTNPYzKWfWJSKgoz48S1AroNjRwlFq3g-wIZSRY-Kw3oadSa-8BkZDE7vlvfY1Bf/s400/Chocolate+Almond+Pretzel+Toffee+with+text.jpg" width="385" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://steaknpotatoeskindagurl.blogspot.com/2012/06/junes-secret-recipe-club-chocolate.html" target="_blank">Found here. </a></b><br />
<br />
<div class="c3" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="c4 c0">Chocolate Almond Pretzel Toffee</span></b></span></div>
<div class="c3">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="c6 c0">From the kitchen of SteakNPotatoesKindaGurl</span></span></div>
<div class="c1">
<span class="c0 c6"></span></div>
<ul>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter</span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">3 tbsp water</span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">3/4 cup granulated sugar</span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">1/4 tsp salt </span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">1 tsp vanilla extract</span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">35 mini pretzels</span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">2/3 cup milk chocolate chips</span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">1/2 cup roasted almonds, chopped</span></li>
<li class="c2"><span class="c0">a pinch or two of sea salt, for topping</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="c1">
<span class="c0"></span></div>
<div class="c3">
<span class="c0">Place
butter, water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan and heat on medium-high
heat until melted. Bring to a boil and let cook until mixture reaches a
soft crack stage (approximately 285 degrees), when it reaches a light
caramel color. Remove toffee from heat and stir in vanilla extract.</span></div>
<div class="c1">
<span class="c0"></span></div>
<div class="c3">
<br /></div>
<div class="c3">
<span class="c0">Line
pretzels close together in a single layer on top of a parchment-lined
baking sheet. Pour the toffee over the pretzels and spread evenly. Let
the toffee sit for at least 20 minutes or until hardened.</span></div>
<div class="c1">
<span class="c0"></span></div>
<div class="c3">
<br /></div>
<div class="c3">
<span class="c0">In
a small microwaveable bowl, heat the chocolate chips in the microwave
for a minute, stirring occasionally. Spread onto the hardened toffee.
Top with chopped almonds and sprinkle with sea salt. Leave at room temp
or refrigerate until chocolate has set. Break into pieces and store in
an air-tight container at room temp.</span></div>
The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-73882500479816543712013-02-14T17:33:00.000-07:002013-03-03T17:56:29.517-07:00Valentine Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjewu03osrmdsYcRhyphenhyphentYhVjK6gACdj709vjRuWzXsjC0fS11XN7W9i9jDJbQWdjOAN0sTpFlNjBcjKwuQsDMa1VzzRADMRMkHcDfDfVIoMcz85B6chKdUcAAvNezTCVtwnGvBEF_MmzKwKG/s1600/Valentine+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjewu03osrmdsYcRhyphenhyphentYhVjK6gACdj709vjRuWzXsjC0fS11XN7W9i9jDJbQWdjOAN0sTpFlNjBcjKwuQsDMa1VzzRADMRMkHcDfDfVIoMcz85B6chKdUcAAvNezTCVtwnGvBEF_MmzKwKG/s400/Valentine+flowers.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Sorry, this is sideways - I couldn't figure out how to rotate it so it would post upright. Brad had the most gorgeous Orchids sent to me at work for Valentines Day this year. I had to post a pic - just ignore all the files on my desk and focus on the lovely flowers. Aren't they spectacular?The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-68391530543390195232013-02-08T17:38:00.000-07:002013-03-03T17:54:29.448-07:00Fairy Tale Friday<br />
Winston's kindergarten teacher has been doing an activity each week on Friday called Fairy Tale Friday. She had us parents each sign up for a few time slots and then gave us a fairy tale to present to the class. We have 30 minutes to read the fairy tale and do an activity of our choosing. I signed up for three of them. <br />
<br />
The first one I was given was The Three Billy Goats Gruff; second was The Gingerbread Man; and the last one - that I did today - was Henny Penny. It's been fun to spend time in his class and get to know the kids a little better. <br />
<br />
My favorite one was The Gingerbread Man which we did right before Christmas so it was fun for the kids to talk about making cookies. I had them make a gingerbread boy ornament with cardstock paper and stickers - they turned out so cute!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh6tOvbBRqruCQVtCRvhyHgY-Dg6krr5LVJfFpZBpgn6nT3N4TBRn5Ca9ykqtoCRQbJJtoxsb8O9CPDt0TvD1O5TCohT368Z-CcDxrhQu3hdX0Dh5ssIwCL8yVBwdXuEsadTGgxfw0rhbf/s1600/Henny+Penny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh6tOvbBRqruCQVtCRvhyHgY-Dg6krr5LVJfFpZBpgn6nT3N4TBRn5Ca9ykqtoCRQbJJtoxsb8O9CPDt0TvD1O5TCohT368Z-CcDxrhQu3hdX0Dh5ssIwCL8yVBwdXuEsadTGgxfw0rhbf/s400/Henny+Penny.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
This is a picture of our Henny Penny activity - we made chickens with a small paper plate with foam rubber beaks and legs, googley eyes and feathers that they glued on. My sample is on the right and Winston's chicken is on the left. I'm kind of sad that it's my last one and wish I had signed up for one more. The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-26573918514807811702013-01-28T21:58:00.000-07:002013-01-28T21:58:51.356-07:00Beautiful SongThis is something worth checking out. Here's a link to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLLMzr3PFgk" target="_blank">Carrie Underwood singing How Great Thou Art</a> and it's a truly touching and inspiring performance. She sings it so beautifully! I can't help but be touched by it. She really puts her whole heart into singing this song. Just watching and listening to her warms my heart and soul and brings tears to my eyes. I'm so grateful for a loving and forgiving Savior and hearing this song reminds me how blessed I am. The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-31830124281346303502013-01-27T22:26:00.001-07:002013-01-27T22:26:54.327-07:00Slow Cooker LasagnaIt's been so cold here this winter. It's the coldest weather we've had in over 20 years in fact and this past Thursday we had a freezing rain storm come through and we almost never get freezing rain. <br />
<br />
Brad had been in Wyoming for work and the freezing rain caused the airport to close for several hours. Because of the closure, Brad's flight was cancelled and he was stuck in Denver for an extra day and a half and then had to take a flight that flew him half way across the country before it brought him home. <br />
<br />
When it's cold like this, all I want to do is stay inside and curl up with a good book and warm blanket while something good is cooking. One of my favorite recipes to throw together in a slow cooker is Lasagna. I've modified a recipe I found online and it's become a family favorite. This<b> <a href="http://bradandhollyfamily.blogspot.com/2011/02/garlic-bread-mmmm.html" target="_blank">Garlic Bread</a> </b>goes great with it too. Mmmm! I love warm and delicious food on a cold winter day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCsovfbGBHqjqzT3gkLfjR4mPSbb1eO1yEaOHZNb5fhRPhRPHOzqXA7rmz9pKcSySsw8fa2V4aDb_G30unLI3oF_m_qrIXXmOaySdVZvv5W6w7hQ5ummFfpSWgcULSa3PU4eqZdlCbWp_/s1600/Lasagna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCsovfbGBHqjqzT3gkLfjR4mPSbb1eO1yEaOHZNb5fhRPhRPHOzqXA7rmz9pKcSySsw8fa2V4aDb_G30unLI3oF_m_qrIXXmOaySdVZvv5W6w7hQ5ummFfpSWgcULSa3PU4eqZdlCbWp_/s400/Lasagna.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0.05em; text-transform: uppercase;"><span style="font-size: large;">SLOW COOKER LASAGNA </span></span></span></div>
<br />
<u><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0.05em; text-transform: uppercase;">Ingredients:</span></span></u><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="50%"><div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 pound Italian sausage</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1/2 cup onion, chopped</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1/4 cup olive oil </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">4 teaspoons minced garlic</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 29oz can crushed tomatoes</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 16oz can tomato sauce</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 6oz can tomato paste</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 1/2 teaspoons salt</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1/4 teaspoon pepper </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span></div>
</td><td valign="top" width="50%"><div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 1/2 cups water </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2 Tbl spoons dried oregano</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2 Tbl spoons dried basil </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 12oz pkg lasagna noodles</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">24 ounces cottage cheese</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 egg lightly beaten </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 cup grated Parmesan cheese</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 8px 4px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">16oz grated mozzarella cheese</span></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><u><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0.05em; text-transform: uppercase;"></span></span></u><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0.05em; text-transform: uppercase;">Directions:</span></span></u><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1.</span></td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In a large skillet
over medium heat cook the onion in 1/4 cup olive oil until soft, add sausage and garlic and cook until browned.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, water, oregano, basil and stir until
well incorporated. Simmer until heated through.</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2.</span></td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In a large bowl mix together the cottage cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3.</span></td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Spoon a layer of the
meat mixture onto the bottom of the slow cooker. Add a double layer of
the uncooked lasagna noodles. Break to fit noodles into slow cooker. Top
noodles with a portion of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layering of
sauce, noodles, and cheese until all the ingredients are used. I like to top with additional Parmesan and Mozzarella cheese. </span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 5px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">4.</span></td>
<td style="padding-bottom: 8px;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Cover, and cook on LOW setting for 4 to 6 hours.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-75778161498593921222013-01-07T20:20:00.000-07:002013-01-08T10:51:38.967-07:00Snowflakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-7HCbfp0CVEpw1_tsYIsP3aoYTJzbagTYjNLf3eHNomdUkDw3XZugbQZr5-R0je6H0X7ejDsaVW9pTg6P2NQ7mu9rhONwaoZfPGEfGhNpvH0jcSBFCnrvMB_YC_vkDk7IXRL-FbEl3HD/s1600/snowflake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-7HCbfp0CVEpw1_tsYIsP3aoYTJzbagTYjNLf3eHNomdUkDw3XZugbQZr5-R0je6H0X7ejDsaVW9pTg6P2NQ7mu9rhONwaoZfPGEfGhNpvH0jcSBFCnrvMB_YC_vkDk7IXRL-FbEl3HD/s400/snowflake.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Winston and I had a fun time tonight cutting out some snowflakes. He was feeling a little down because his older brothers didn't want to play with him, so to cheer him up I suggested we open the art kit that Santa had brought him for Christmas. He started out drawing a picture of our house and then a picture of a snowflake.<br />
<br />
Looking at his snowflake picture, we decided to cut out a few of our own to hang in his room. I haven't cut out snowflakes for years and it took me a few tries to remember how to fold and cut to get a decent looking one but we kept trying. We hung up our best ones on his bedroom wall.<br />
<br />
Snowflakes are such a fun project. The possibilities are endless and they're perfect for January - especially this year. It's been the coldest January we've had since Winston was born. I'm actually hoping it will snow some more soon to bring the temperatures up out of the single digits. Brrrr! The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-63700853198392019752013-01-01T17:08:00.003-07:002013-01-01T17:08:54.188-07:00A Recipe to try - Salted Caramel Apple PieWhile I was looking online for some recipes to try for Thanksgiving, I came across this one. I printed it out planning to try it for Thanksgiving dinner but ran out of time - happens to me all the time. I always think I'll have more time to bake than I do - when it comes to baking I can be completely unrealistic. <br />
<br />
I still plan on trying this but it'll have to wait for now so I thought I'd post it here. Unfortunately, the printout didn't list the website I found it from so I can't give credit to the creator of such a fabulous idea -a caramel apple pie! I'm thinking I'll have to make this pie in the next few weeks - a mid January treat to brighten these long cold winter days. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHbt1HyyO5c0bE0iovOTpZ0K5eJcnY94FCEggQ2CD-A0WriGo8OfWt-Lpk6vHMKlx8r2e0-AexBUsZZot8zYYiC1kOrl0HkEBA7H3NJiz8t_glptEoE46Oo0onTfL9i_tO3cM2LXFtthQ/s1600/salted-caramel-apple-pie-stephanie-hua-lick-my-spoon-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHbt1HyyO5c0bE0iovOTpZ0K5eJcnY94FCEggQ2CD-A0WriGo8OfWt-Lpk6vHMKlx8r2e0-AexBUsZZot8zYYiC1kOrl0HkEBA7H3NJiz8t_glptEoE46Oo0onTfL9i_tO3cM2LXFtthQ/s400/salted-caramel-apple-pie-stephanie-hua-lick-my-spoon-19.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://lickmyspoon.com/recipes/salted-caramel-apple-pie-perfect-pie-crust/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture found here.</span></a><br /><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span class="apple-style-span"><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 24pt;">Salted Caramel Apple Pie</span></b></span><span class="apple-style-span"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; font-size: 24pt; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 7pt;"><br />
</span><u><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black;">Crust:</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></u><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour</span><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1 teaspoon salt</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">1 teaspoon sugar</span><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1 cup (2 sticks) chilled unsalted butter, cut in pieces</span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
<u><span class="apple-style-span">Filling:</span></u></span><u><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></u><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">6 -7 cups tart apples, peeled and sliced (Jonathan
or Granny Smith)</span><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1/2 cup packed light brown sugar</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">1/2 cup sugar</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">1/4 cup all-purpose flour</span><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1 teaspoon cinnamon</span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1/4 teaspoon nutmeg</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">1 teaspoon sea salt</span><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1 tablespoon lemon juice</span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">1 teaspoon vanilla</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">4 tablespoons heavy cream</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">4 tablespoons butter</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
<u><span class="apple-style-span">Directions:</span></u></span><u><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></u><span style="color: black;"><br />
<span class="apple-style-span">For the crust: Place the flour, salt, and sugar in
the bowl of a food processor, and process for a few seconds to combine. Add the
butter, and process until the mixture resembles coarse meal, about 10 seconds.
With the machine running, add the ice water in a slow, steady stream, through
the feed tube, just until the dough holds together. Do not process for more
than 30 seconds. (You can also do this by hand or with a pastry cutter!)</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">Turn the dough out onto a work surface. Divide in
two. Place each half on a sheet of plastic wrap. Flatten, and form two discs.
Wrap, and refrigerate at least 1 hour before using.</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">When chilled-
roll out one disc and place inside a pie dish with a small over-hang around the
edges. Let chill in fridge until filling is ready.</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">P</span>reheat oven to 450 degrees F.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
For filling: Sprinkle apples with lemon juice. Combine dry ingredients in large
bowl and add apples. Toss to mix. Add vanilla and cream. Melt butter in heavy
skillet. Add apple mixture and cook approximately 8-10 minutes, until apples
are soft and the liquid has turned golden. Turn into pie shell.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
Cover with a lattice top or just drape the whole second crust over the filling
and crimp the edges. If you don't have enough over-hang to turn it over to seal
the pie, use my trick: roll out a thin 1/2 inch wide strip of extra dough and
place it around the edge. Use a fork or your finger to decorate the edge.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black;">Brush the top of the crust with
heavy cream and bake for 15 minutes. Then reduce the heat to 350 and bake for
another 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.</span></div>
<br />
<br />The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-21349492425963633402012-12-31T23:17:00.001-07:002013-01-01T18:01:13.726-07:00Another Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJS_ZEqW3cvx8o_Mm1CaTZsWTfLeoohGb5LROWXyNUS9_zvXABRMgnF5uQlpfiGP5mjhM8UZ4802Yy0sWfjDp9cAtM7-4R9kw0ElpGIYvns_wSnAPmah-uBNc_Zzg5QQGwc6eikRZzzVmQ/s1600/happy-new-year-2013-wallpaper1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJS_ZEqW3cvx8o_Mm1CaTZsWTfLeoohGb5LROWXyNUS9_zvXABRMgnF5uQlpfiGP5mjhM8UZ4802Yy0sWfjDp9cAtM7-4R9kw0ElpGIYvns_wSnAPmah-uBNc_Zzg5QQGwc6eikRZzzVmQ/s400/happy-new-year-2013-wallpaper1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's crazy to think that another year has come and gone. I can't believe that it's been 6 months since my last post. It's true what they say about time flying - the older I get the faster it flies by.<br />
<br />
Summer time was soooo busy, I just fell out of the habit of posting. I do miss sharing my random thoughts though so at the start of this new year I'll begin by getting back into the routine of blogging.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Happy New Year!</span></b>The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-59538940595708970922012-06-10T11:00:00.000-06:002012-06-10T11:00:00.004-06:00I Did It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmcG2R_T2wd2nyOx7A0ohDgAt28Zqo_QJQ9uuOZQfLgJBfm-UMTM6KNbim_UNeMBjhnveRvLRBUMwV25re6g11pkbB7JIh96ujCZ9ykRd7AsWMyaHPL9HTFp7bUsf_vc8tC-ajLmEVALd/s1600/UV+Half.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmcG2R_T2wd2nyOx7A0ohDgAt28Zqo_QJQ9uuOZQfLgJBfm-UMTM6KNbim_UNeMBjhnveRvLRBUMwV25re6g11pkbB7JIh96ujCZ9ykRd7AsWMyaHPL9HTFp7bUsf_vc8tC-ajLmEVALd/s400/UV+Half.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
Yesterday was the Utah Valley Half Marathon. I signed up to run this race with my friend Laurie Petersen back in January thinking I had plenty of time to train - I was sure I'd be more than ready to run. I started training in February - stepping things up in March and April. I was actually doing pretty good until May arrived. <br />
<br />
I pushed myself a little too hard on a long run, injured my lower back and had to pull back for a few weeks. Then work got crazy busy and Brad got sick and ended up in the hospital for a few days. Needless to say, I didn't get much running in during May. A week before race day, I was only able to run for about 7 miles before tiring out.<br />
<br />
Feeling discouraged but still determined to do this race, I decided to just focus on finishing the race in under 3 hours. Laurie was great about it - saying she hadn't enough time to really train either and we would plan to walk as much as we needed. <br />
<br />
Going in with lowered expectations took the pressure off and I was able to relax and run so I did much, much better than I expected! With Laurie's encouragement I ran most of the way - stopping to walk only at the aid stations to grab a quick drink and one pit stop. I ended up finishing in 2 hours and 33 minutes!! <br />
<br />
I'm pretty sore today since I wasn't in shape for that long of a run but it's worth it. The run felt great and I'm so glad I stuck it out. Now, on to the next race in August. :)The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-17627075979532150252012-05-31T19:40:00.000-06:002012-06-01T19:53:27.504-06:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5zM9ilG-EqMRu3wrqoDSJDbFNyGH96IgHKm6VMvGDDUa-ESXZlJC_R5nQYgKJhIB_F3y7N3WDn6kOQAnRHXyi5v1GeOXgwZi4n8YVLceAwKNtMCDQ3KSyfhepaYpO1zqmx7ya-YxzfYe/s1600/Dont+Give+Up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5zM9ilG-EqMRu3wrqoDSJDbFNyGH96IgHKm6VMvGDDUa-ESXZlJC_R5nQYgKJhIB_F3y7N3WDn6kOQAnRHXyi5v1GeOXgwZi4n8YVLceAwKNtMCDQ3KSyfhepaYpO1zqmx7ya-YxzfYe/s320/Dont+Give+Up.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A friend posted this on Facebook and I really like the message - it's one I need to remember. Sometimes I stop putting in the effort to accomplish something that takes a lot of work - at other times I can't seem to find or make the extra time needed to squeeze everything in.<br />
<br />
When I've plowed through, made time and stuck with something, the sense of accomplishment has always made it worthwhile. I just need to keep telling myself - "Don't give up, you'll be glad you kept going."The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-73262202223729270652012-05-30T21:51:00.000-06:002012-05-30T21:51:18.257-06:00Lemony Lemon Brownies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmYr44t6o7MlH_KP50R-ehlk8QlafxevM2LdyIlMQOWRG1MVhr8Sb7dvL-XLJhRUtZdjgRJWrRLXGNnZTuHzM6kzCCd06OVKOpA7LpeOAE3ft-Mzx6H8zdR8UzNRt8-l8hOorOdgQmuN4/s1600/Lemon+Brownies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmYr44t6o7MlH_KP50R-ehlk8QlafxevM2LdyIlMQOWRG1MVhr8Sb7dvL-XLJhRUtZdjgRJWrRLXGNnZTuHzM6kzCCd06OVKOpA7LpeOAE3ft-Mzx6H8zdR8UzNRt8-l8hOorOdgQmuN4/s400/Lemon+Brownies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I've been neglecting my blog. It's not that I meant to - in fact I really miss posting my random thoughts, but life has just been really busy so far this year. I realized tonight that this month is all but over and I better hurry up and get a recipe posted. <br />
<br />
I saw this one on Pinterest and it intrigues me. Lemony Brownies, doesn't that sound interesting? You could call them Lemonies instead of Brownies. I've got to try these out so I'll be making them this weekend. :)<br />
<br />
Source: <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/beckycharms/cakies/lemony-lemon-brownies">Becky Charms</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Lemony Lemon Brownies</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
3/4 cup all-purpose flour {King Arthur All-Purpose Flour}</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
3/4 cup granulated sugar </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
1/4 teaspoon salt {Sea Salt}</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
2 large eggs</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
2 tablespoons lemon zest</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
2 tablespoons lemon juice</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<b>Tart Lemon Glaze:</b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
1 cup powdered sugar</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
4 tablespoon lemon juice </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
8 teaspoons lemon zest </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b>Directions:</b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease/Spray an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with butter/cooking spray and set aside. </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Zest and juice two small/large lemons; set aside. In
the bowl of an electric mixture fitted with the paddle attachment,
beat the flour, sugar, salt, and softened butter until combined. </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
In
a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice
until combined. Pour into the flour mixture and beat at medium speed
until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Pour
into baking dish and bake for 23-25 minutes, or until just starting to
turn golden around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center of
the brownies comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before glazing.
Do not overbake, or the bars will be dry. {even with the yummy glaze}</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
When
brownies are cooled completely, make the glaze...sift the powdered
sugar, add lemon zest and juice, and whisk together all
three ingredients. Spread 1/2 the glaze over the brownies with a rubber
spatula. Let glaze harden. Spread the remaining glaze over the bars,
and let it harden. Cut
into bars, and serve!</div>The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-8861137104160513332012-05-27T21:24:00.000-06:002012-05-29T21:35:44.630-06:0081st Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8YgzJzf3_hpVCrf7HrkSnl3AcX1EScdWoHkPz2oenjx2WDjCDzygBu45u0qpo602GDTLkliH-TmfpRRrh0zUW2LatLKP5HAzkt230akSSLJ4FrDsNl4Kp9304yF8GiZ4qZfo52xFp9-cs/s1600/Cashews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8YgzJzf3_hpVCrf7HrkSnl3AcX1EScdWoHkPz2oenjx2WDjCDzygBu45u0qpo602GDTLkliH-TmfpRRrh0zUW2LatLKP5HAzkt230akSSLJ4FrDsNl4Kp9304yF8GiZ4qZfo52xFp9-cs/s1600/Cashews.jpg" /></a></div>
Today would have been my Dad's 81st birthday and I've been thinking about him and missing him today. Just a little bit of trivia about my Dad, he loved cashews. I do too, in fact they're my favorite kind of nut. My mom loves pistachios and my dad loved cashews. <br />
<br />
Sometimes when I eat these nuts, I think back to when I was young - watching a movie together or playing a family game and sharing these yummy nuts with my parents. I love the fun memories and good times associated with these nuts. Cashews always remind me of my Dad. Happy Birthday Daddy! Love and Miss You!The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-25677883190708996232012-05-01T16:14:00.001-06:002012-05-01T16:14:09.108-06:0025 Years Already!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdJVLXF31ADuq1hHZmtnNXqI30_mNRZToUCVdfj9YhcWps_UseuMmyBMdshZbLFNuQlmruxmS6iiYp9wdjJJWGgs6o07z2T8R6W3aSJ3GVuS-vEe3a6sB8nvwZRtoEmHOjfe0kqnGmU4W/s1600/Us.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdJVLXF31ADuq1hHZmtnNXqI30_mNRZToUCVdfj9YhcWps_UseuMmyBMdshZbLFNuQlmruxmS6iiYp9wdjJJWGgs6o07z2T8R6W3aSJ3GVuS-vEe3a6sB8nvwZRtoEmHOjfe0kqnGmU4W/s400/Us.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Happy Anniversary to the wonderful and amazing man that I feel blessed to call my husband and my best friend. I Love you Brad! Here's to 25 more fantastic years!! :) The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-70779207468320526782012-04-30T22:00:00.000-06:002012-05-01T11:45:02.332-06:00It's T-Ball Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhE-Obw7ETPEJgfBkXIkHP2Cy9Ve2UDgywrd_YvGqtFqbAGbI0Wj9U1jkB9sOkjxmt4ieyezHykoSn0Cnagkmj07ICyXZYvzgWYjNFjSJlBdXKt7Z-_pTTY2J-Tg94oAI7F-CsfM9OVm-/s1600/Cubs+T+Ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhE-Obw7ETPEJgfBkXIkHP2Cy9Ve2UDgywrd_YvGqtFqbAGbI0Wj9U1jkB9sOkjxmt4ieyezHykoSn0Cnagkmj07ICyXZYvzgWYjNFjSJlBdXKt7Z-_pTTY2J-Tg94oAI7F-CsfM9OVm-/s400/Cubs+T+Ball.jpg" width="355" /></a></div>
Winston is on the Cubs this year and Brad is his coach. In the pic above, he's with his best buddie Jackson. They've grown up together and are really like brothers. <br />
<br />
It's going to be a super fun ball season this year. Because they played last year, they both think they're pros. It's so fun and entertaining to watch them. :)The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-21506034048626133472012-04-29T22:09:00.001-06:002012-04-29T22:09:45.837-06:00Where Oh Where Did April Go?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-IzHXf8c_Em0xMyHTEVkUfAMrdNRARtFWuoCWSQkojUsbr7gC73dSzKXunY045cPFsELUdbQhGAFnFnnRNCngq7ixm-dBGBfPCoJDtPXn_T-eFM2iCDv8RgnkkQ0DvV8tKad1N_hOrY1/s1600/tree+lined+street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-IzHXf8c_Em0xMyHTEVkUfAMrdNRARtFWuoCWSQkojUsbr7gC73dSzKXunY045cPFsELUdbQhGAFnFnnRNCngq7ixm-dBGBfPCoJDtPXn_T-eFM2iCDv8RgnkkQ0DvV8tKad1N_hOrY1/s400/tree+lined+street.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
April has flown by for me - it's been a crazy busy month at the Shafer household. My mom had knee replacement surgery on both of her knees in the middle of March and I've been helping her in the evenings after work. Brad has been out of town several times on work trips and Winston's T-ball games started up. Plus, I've been getting up in the mornings to train for my upcoming half marathon on June 9 and to top it off, work has picked up dramatically so I've been working a lot more hours this month. <br />
<br />
My mom is doing well - she's actually ahead of schedule in her recovery. I'm doing pretty good on my training too - not as far along as I hoped I'd be but I'll be ready in time for the race. Unfortunately, my house is a mess right now and I'm way behind on getting much Spring cleaning done but there's only so many hours in a day, something has to give.<br />
<br />
I'm hoping May will be a much less hectic month. When life runs at such a crazy pace like April has done, it doesn't leave much time to relax and enjoy the journey. One nice thing about this past April is that the weather has been great so I've been able to get outside for many runs and I've really enjoyed the spectacular Spring flowers. The world is a beautiful place in the Spring. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDigRYqlsa-o1a_na3eKrKYXUyH7q-BQucFZqci3So0rmZeZlRF7HjEVEn1WgMGhDhg2aSqi2B2YSAp_Qn7ZBj3WCwFKtxe4XLXexf9eH5wt4COTetALUeTfUD0kJuYQziZlfhJVEA6Aa/s1600/crabapple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDigRYqlsa-o1a_na3eKrKYXUyH7q-BQucFZqci3So0rmZeZlRF7HjEVEn1WgMGhDhg2aSqi2B2YSAp_Qn7ZBj3WCwFKtxe4XLXexf9eH5wt4COTetALUeTfUD0kJuYQziZlfhJVEA6Aa/s400/crabapple.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-5851045376649063632012-03-31T20:47:00.000-06:002012-04-01T20:49:21.276-06:00Running TipsBeing registered to run in two half marathons this year, I have running
on the brain. I'm always keeping my eyes open for good running tips. I
saw this chart on good/proper form on Pinterest and thought I'd post
it on my blog too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvVGhGgQtqblAxSU2vzfC3iD8ZAX-xYBe9vd3xaL6MhBslOAn1Xv0C3W_xeXOygo1gcwccUL4fa9z4R84arjG-cCM3TE3PsxDQdscrxhcJjs59n4CYX40NSpqBgIL5Tzii3CAYLR4pv9y/s1600/Running+Form.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvVGhGgQtqblAxSU2vzfC3iD8ZAX-xYBe9vd3xaL6MhBslOAn1Xv0C3W_xeXOygo1gcwccUL4fa9z4R84arjG-cCM3TE3PsxDQdscrxhcJjs59n4CYX40NSpqBgIL5Tzii3CAYLR4pv9y/s400/Running+Form.jpg" width="381" /></a></div>
It's a great reminder to run tall and relaxed with shorter strides and a
quick cadence - always landing midfoot to avoid injuries. With all this
good weather we're having it's time to get out there and run!The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-67921257363719512532012-03-25T21:55:00.000-06:002012-03-25T21:55:26.791-06:00Snickerdoodle Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLCcaizeSJxm54zHIXauqeJRX5acfOMFKF9QDJuGZbTYX7kmWBpuqcB0lDQoiNTmd9ALDHAD4BN30nDsocUML-CcpnqvSSXDzBRiWQgObbT1jUBpxIjZvD_6BFT41HxzwWr1CgshtsAwuV/s1600/snickerdoodle-bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLCcaizeSJxm54zHIXauqeJRX5acfOMFKF9QDJuGZbTYX7kmWBpuqcB0lDQoiNTmd9ALDHAD4BN30nDsocUML-CcpnqvSSXDzBRiWQgObbT1jUBpxIjZvD_6BFT41HxzwWr1CgshtsAwuV/s320/snickerdoodle-bread.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm a sucker for snickerdoodle anything. I love the cookies, I love the <a href="http://www.bradandhollyfamily.blogspot.com/2011/04/snickerdoodle-pie.html" target="">pie I posted last year</a>, I love the blondies and I absloutley LOVE this snickredoodle Bread!<br />
<br />
It turned out moist and with just the right amount of flavor. The little bursts of cinnamon from the cinnamon chips really put this bread over the top - so delicious! Now I need an excuse to make it again. :)<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://lilluna.com/snickerdoodle-bread/" target="_blank">Source: Lil' Luna</a></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SNICKERDOODLE BREAD</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="ERIngredientsHeader">
<b><u>Ingredients</u></b></div>
<ul class="ingredients">
<li class="ingredient">1 cup butter, softened</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 cups sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient">1/2 tsp. salt</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 tsp cinnamon </li>
<li class="ingredient">3 eggs</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 tsp. vanilla</li>
<li class="ingredient">3/4 c. sour cream</li>
<li class="ingredient"> 2 1/2 c. all purpose flour</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 tsp. baking powder</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 tsp. cream of tartar </li>
<li class="ingredient">1 pkg. Hershey’s cinnamon chips</li>
<li class="ingredient">TOPPING:</li>
<li class="ingredient">3 T. sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient">3 t. cinnamon</li>
</ul>
<div class="ERInstructionsHeader">
<u><b>Instructions</b></u> </div>
<div class="ERInstructionsHeader">
Cream butter, sugar, salt and cinnamon until fluffy. Add eggs and mix well. Add vanilla and sour cream and mix well. Mix flour, baking powder and cream of tartar in a separate bowl. Add to wet ingredients and mix until all combined. Add cinnamon chips and stir into batter. Set aside. </div>
<div class="ERInstructionsHeader">
</div>
<div class="ERInstructionsHeader">
Spoon batter into 4 mini loaf pans until about 2/3 full. Mix 3 T. sugar and 3 t. cinnamon in a bowl and sprinkle over the batter in each loaf pan. Bake at 350 for 35-38 minutes. Let cool before removing from pan.</div>
<div class="instructions">
</div>The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-19724673563848699682012-03-20T22:11:00.001-06:002012-03-20T22:18:35.958-06:00Happy Spring!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHtI_FYJIrC_3UAQhRYE6j0T-sZJSCNpIeyHQtYM67lxje0ivrdSw2AYW98v26XCLXrgQIElxmiM8N09JzcQ9KuIIxiOe7iHYVYSGTcUBPI138vwmO552kGVehYSQlDFC1Umqz5Psjj8D/s1600/spring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHtI_FYJIrC_3UAQhRYE6j0T-sZJSCNpIeyHQtYM67lxje0ivrdSw2AYW98v26XCLXrgQIElxmiM8N09JzcQ9KuIIxiOe7iHYVYSGTcUBPI138vwmO552kGVehYSQlDFC1Umqz5Psjj8D/s400/spring.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I'm so happy that Spring is officially here! It's been a mild winter this year - I'm not a big fan of snow and cold weather so to me, it's been a great winter. I love having more daylight. I love sunshine and I'm so looking forward to Summertime and all the outdoor activities that go with it. Happy Spring!!!The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-40010336139831499092012-03-11T21:29:00.002-06:002012-03-11T21:29:12.716-06:00Time for a Change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmUraCA4vmzCKuJ3-fvwTMTOGmrRY5z7zeyLtesPTJQ0X1VSNtzxdkhK6uJ7Apr7owbzp8Wu3RAAuW9E1R9Oh_vbf9JG9UbHbZLuT0OeI7TU-HBXx8iRiNUhjfKRwoxrhQz915kgBf9DN/s1600/Change5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmUraCA4vmzCKuJ3-fvwTMTOGmrRY5z7zeyLtesPTJQ0X1VSNtzxdkhK6uJ7Apr7owbzp8Wu3RAAuW9E1R9Oh_vbf9JG9UbHbZLuT0OeI7TU-HBXx8iRiNUhjfKRwoxrhQz915kgBf9DN/s320/Change5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My life is due for some change - I'm not sure how to start or what to do. I just know that a change is needed. It's time for some serious thinking and planning...<br />
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I found these quotes on Pinterest. Aren't they great?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF2_zZmLhb3mE26uS5Pysj3WUuTQbqT9frWV_eC6ZuIDVK5j4-VEIsOG-2hFIYM2xrp7PlSWymOFddMfUicAGtDWEK1aMJrgG0JXIi6ex-qK3-mxMnuig9Dcx2phjazZmJLUl6cVFj99M/s1600/Change2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF2_zZmLhb3mE26uS5Pysj3WUuTQbqT9frWV_eC6ZuIDVK5j4-VEIsOG-2hFIYM2xrp7PlSWymOFddMfUicAGtDWEK1aMJrgG0JXIi6ex-qK3-mxMnuig9Dcx2phjazZmJLUl6cVFj99M/s320/Change2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Change can be a really good thing - a great way to grow.<br />
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It's hard to know where to start but I know I need to.<br />
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I'm anxious now but I need to get excited.<br />
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And I need to believe in myself - things will work out.<br />
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Yes, it's time for some magic happen in my life.The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-60593222156257832282012-02-29T22:35:00.000-07:002012-02-29T22:35:35.735-07:00Happy February 29th!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What do you do with an extra day every four years? The idea of getting an extra day is great - if only it could be a free day. A
day to hang out with family, have fun or relax, you get the idea. Unfortunately, on leap year day, life goes on as usual - today I still had to go to work, do housework and all the usual stuff I do each day. <br />
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But wouldn't it be nice to get a day free of your usual responsibilities each leap year? A day to completely relax and have fun. I guess I'm just missing some down time right now. Work has been beyond busy and I've started training to run in a half marathon in June so needless to say, I don't have much free time. <br />
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I'd really love a day off to read or watch some movies - old favorites and some I haven't seen yet, maybe do some shopping and browse online uninterrupted for a little while. Wouldn't that be nice? Sigh! I need a vacation.The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915390674546867916.post-57253840894706262912012-02-28T21:23:00.000-07:002012-02-28T21:23:47.506-07:00Cinnamon Roll Pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3E73VPRbqZluXVif8AJ7bmDZxKvPWdxQaHJTY8rw_4vHGTpBcyM4r36tDzpXK0j0GvTmqW0-MMiHb7tA47VEymhQiWhs_lyghF7bRfC1wf14h8Adnd5qrIYGfQD2tT1XW6tg4sDiZjjb/s1600/cinnamonpancake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3E73VPRbqZluXVif8AJ7bmDZxKvPWdxQaHJTY8rw_4vHGTpBcyM4r36tDzpXK0j0GvTmqW0-MMiHb7tA47VEymhQiWhs_lyghF7bRfC1wf14h8Adnd5qrIYGfQD2tT1XW6tg4sDiZjjb/s320/cinnamonpancake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In honor of National Pancake Week, here's a recipe I found on Pinterest that I've been planning to make. I think I'll have to make these this weekend. The idea of Maple Butter Icing is just too tempting. My mouth is watering. <br />
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Source: <a href="http://cjaneinthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/07/cinnamon-roll-pancakes.html">See Jane in the Kitchen</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cinnamon Roll Pancakes</b></span></div>
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1-½ cup All-purpose Flour<br />3 Tablespoons Sugar<br />½ teaspoons Salt<br />4 teaspoons Baking Powder<br />1 Tablespoon Cinnamon<br />2 whole Eggs Beaten<br />1 cup Milk<br />2 Tablespoons Corn Syrup<br />¼ cups Butter, Melted<br />1 Tablespoon Vanilla</div>
<br />In
medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and cinnamon
with a whisk. Whisk well to make sure everything is combined. In separate large bowl, beat together eggs, milk, corn syurp, butter and vanilla. Stir in flour mixture.<br />
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium/low heat. Pour about 1/4 cup batter onto griddle. Brown on both sides.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Maple Butter Icing</b></span></div>
1 cup powdered sugar<br />1/4 cup butter, melted<br />dash salt<br />1 TBS maple syrup<br />1/4 cups milk, more if needed<br /><br />(I recommend doubling the icing also, I added a lot more syrup than the recipe calls for)<br />The Shafer Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03335717218308582263noreply@blogger.com1