tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50904942241238511812024-03-19T00:42:11.507-07:00The Coffee CatholicFaith, Coffee, Books, FamilyAllison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-31833240312855610642016-11-10T21:43:00.004-08:002016-11-10T22:20:26.017-08:00How the Aftermath of the Election Made Me Want to Be a Better MomThe aftermath of this presidential election has me shaken to my core about all the hate going on in the country and world, and I don't want hate in my home. I just want peace and love and joy. All of those things come directly from Jesus.<br />
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<i>"Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor...Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting."</i></div>
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<i>St. Teresa of Calcutta</i></div>
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She is the most difficult of my children to parent, my sweet Nora, because she whines about anything and everything. She's a middle child, a red-head, and a Scorpio; it's a perfect trifecta. Yet she is perfect, made in the image of God. How can I not see this clearly? I am letting Him down by not treating her how she needs to be treated; like a fun, sweet, smart, precious daughter. And she has such an infectious smile! I have felt it in my heart for quite some time, and am just realizing I need to do something more than just go to Confession. Yes, the Sacrament helps, but then as the weeks go on, it gets harder, and I fall back into the same rut.<br />
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<i>"Pure love...knows that only one thing is needed to please God: to do even the smallest things out of great love - love, and always love."</i><br />
<i>St. Faustina</i><br />
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I am going to come up with a prayer plan to help combat this temper of mine. St. Anne, St. Gianna, and the Blessed Mother will be hearing from me a lot in the near future. If you are reading this, please offer a prayer for my heart, and for my sweet Nora Bear.<br />
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<i>"Since love grows within you, so beauty grows. For love is the beauty of the soul."</i></div>
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<i>St. Augustine</i></div>
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I love you Nora. I am sorry for the way I've treated you. You deserve nothing but the best.<br />
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-91015529946131449172015-05-05T15:08:00.002-07:002015-05-05T15:08:58.045-07:00Happy Mother's Day: A Giveaway!I haven't blogged in quite some time, but with Mother's Day right around the corner, I feel like giving away something! A custom Swarovski pocket rosary, to be exact. Now through Saturday night, you have a chance to win one. The Rafflecopter is below, so enter away! Once the winner is chosen, we will then design the rosary.<br />
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Here is an example of what I have previously designed, and what prompted this giveaway<br />
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So, good luck, and Happy Mother's Day to all the mommas, mine included! <3</div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="a6f9f9a64" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/a6f9f9a64/" id="rcwidget_5g7vhu9j" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-81402845767987479412014-11-25T11:58:00.002-08:002014-11-25T12:13:56.938-08:00Holiday Pie Baking HackI love pie. A lot. The year I was married, I found a recipe for an apple cranberry pie with a pecan crumble topping. I can't remember where I found it, but I've made so many changes to it that I call it my own. It is by far my favorite pie, but it is a lot of work to prepare. Since I have two toddlers running around, and another bebe rolling around in my womb, topped with my ITP, I'm pretty exhausted. But I NEED THIS PIE! I have come up with a few little hacks to save some time in making this delicious pie.<br />
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First. I bought pre-chopped pecans. I know this sounds like a waste, but this also saves me from using the food processor to chop them and blend them in with the sugars. Since they're already small, I just toss them in the mixing bowl with the sugars, flour, salt, and small pieces of cold butter, and work it all together with my hands. It doesn't take long at all.<br />
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(Delicious crumbly topping)</div>
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The next tip is to buy a pre-made pie crust. Yes, your homemade one is going to taste a million times better, but I do not have the time it takes to prepare this delicious, buttery, flaky crust. So I bought a two-pack at the store, and I'll use the other one for Christmas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7kRYkvdSBYpOBxyD2cFZPW9hxa0Tm__5Mi_AKe7hdzYCIc8EjbSreGffaBkQCWDhNM8kYKMiEcNYex8tTp8v8Yecq5IvWvbfnCRfyydYmphebDVHpLOcsvyBTreGcO9ZKm8GuGJIvR0/s640/blogger-image--511417604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7kRYkvdSBYpOBxyD2cFZPW9hxa0Tm__5Mi_AKe7hdzYCIc8EjbSreGffaBkQCWDhNM8kYKMiEcNYex8tTp8v8Yecq5IvWvbfnCRfyydYmphebDVHpLOcsvyBTreGcO9ZKm8GuGJIvR0/s320/blogger-image--511417604.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Pie ready to bake, in the pre-made pie crust)</div>
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Thirdly, for an apple pie, invest in an apple peeler/slicer/corer. Five seconds, and your apple is ready to go. Seriously. Get one.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Meglio-Potato-Peeler-Cast-Iron-Suction/dp/B00GS4CJG0/ref=sr_1_2?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1416945453&sr=1-2&keywords=apple+peeler+corer+slicer&pebp=1416945454640"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjdbqQIDTufeqbhI8yvzUb30qZ3XHOx96H47kIjzZDJOhdv2xggGc6yPSVYdWIVek_RGsi3osgsXBkn_cRwM2GSQRK_ZeZs6Dp-njy8_biAyRzRgI1IRNFSao47wie0bbT3kT7yPtVgI/s1600/61QXea31EyL._SL1024_.jpg" height="261" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Amazon link)</div>
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Last, bake ahead of time. I'm sure a lot of you who prepare an entire Thanksgiving meal do this, but I have yet to do this, and I'm busy with prenatal and hematology appointments, so making the pie ahead of time is saving me from going insane!<br />
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Now for the recipe. I'm going to disregard the pie crust part, because we are saving time!<br />
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APPLE CRANBERRY PECAN CRUMBLE PIE</h4>
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Filling:</div>
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3 medium apples (for this round, I used one Braeburn, one Honeycrisp, and one Gala)</div>
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1 cup fresh cranberries</div>
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1/2 granulated sugar (you could use turbinado as well)</div>
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Juice of 1/2 lemon (I use ReaLemon because it's quicker!)</div>
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1/2 t ground cinnamon</div>
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2 T flour</div>
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Topping:</div>
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1/2 c pecans (get the pre-chopped ones!)</div>
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1/3 c sugar (since I'm halving this recipe, I used approximately half each of brown sugar and granulated sugar)</div>
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1/4 c + 2 T flour (give or take, since, again, this is half the recipe)</div>
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1/2 t salt</div>
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1/4 c (half a stick) cold unsalted butter</div>
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Use your handy apple peeler/corer/slicer to take care of your three apples, cut those in half (for gorgeous, uniform slices), toss them in a large-ish mixing bowl with your cranberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix real well and set it aside for 10 minutes.</div>
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Preheat your oven to 400° with a dark baking sheet (lined with foil!) inside. Apparently this makes the bottom of the pie more crisp.</div>
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In your set-aside bowl, add cinnamon and flour and mix lightly. Turn mixture into your frozen pie shell and place the pie in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes.</div>
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While the pie is baking, we can now prepare the mouth-watering topping! To save on dishes, I just rinsed out the bowl I used for the filling and dried it. Toss in your chopped pecans and your sugar and mix them together with your fingers. Add the flour and salt and mix again. I like to cut the cold butter into little squares for easier working. Toss the squares in with the mixture and cut in the butter with your fingers until they resemble the crumbs in the photo above. It only takes about 5 minutes to accomplish this.</div>
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When the pie is done baking, remove and place your topping on top and pat it a bit so it stays in place. REDUCE YOUR OVEN TEMPERATURE TO 375°! Put your pie back in the oven for about 20 minutes and bake. Then place a foil tent over your pie and bake another 15 minutes. This last part helps your topping to stay golden brown instead of burned!</div>
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Once it's finished baking, let it cool completely then you can cover it with foil again and get it ready for transport. Great, now I want to eat it and I have to wait 2 whole days!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20awjBIIIYzwzrdTj4RvnEx7FkyUqZ8Gl_5VXdQd3yHhkYItkpoQz4o1GULTpfv3IXuoe3FdzYbPh_X1_eRYqWneu2wuOG_UkqOXQVydJBBevpPSXfIcoCzlQ1zfVzeWQJGWMpoEm1fc/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-D798F786E44A761A3E4255D5E85D8B16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20awjBIIIYzwzrdTj4RvnEx7FkyUqZ8Gl_5VXdQd3yHhkYItkpoQz4o1GULTpfv3IXuoe3FdzYbPh_X1_eRYqWneu2wuOG_UkqOXQVydJBBevpPSXfIcoCzlQ1zfVzeWQJGWMpoEm1fc/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-D798F786E44A761A3E4255D5E85D8B16.png" /></a></div>
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-9189312508224699482014-11-18T21:32:00.000-08:002014-11-18T21:34:36.246-08:00Autumn Favorite ThingsI was recently featured in <a href="http://mollymakesdo.blogspot.com/2014/11/a-few-of-my-favorite-things.html">Molly Make Do</a>'s Favorite Things post, and I thought I'd do my own Autumn take on it, since I've been fortunate enough to be featured in one! It'll be short and sweet, and lacking in words, but here goes...<br />
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My friend Jane makes beautiful knit scarves and other cold weather accessories. I am fortunate enough to own a few of her items, and just ordered this absolutely stunning scarf called <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/211348859/falling-autumn-leaves-scarf-in-gold?ref=hp_mod_rf">Falling Autumn Leaves Scarf</a>. I cannot wait to receive it! It utters Autumn over and over again and makes me want to cry because of its beauty. She has one available in her Etsy shop, but I'm sure when it sells out, she can create another one for you!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBgIU_MYcXZndigyLpWdF_VcRM9Mo0VE8ydgrspfzmdVsY0n3eAm_6yN1XoBrmMKQR62v4I7uHr_mIqqCCxJ6cN30bNrBsDBqNHORkBByv2gPc-6rjS7W9qzyiWTZtRkHS_G32GSRFmQ/s1600/il_570xN.683551050_f4s0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBgIU_MYcXZndigyLpWdF_VcRM9Mo0VE8ydgrspfzmdVsY0n3eAm_6yN1XoBrmMKQR62v4I7uHr_mIqqCCxJ6cN30bNrBsDBqNHORkBByv2gPc-6rjS7W9qzyiWTZtRkHS_G32GSRFmQ/s1600/il_570xN.683551050_f4s0.jpg" height="400" width="196" /></a></div>
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Jenna embroiders gorgeous necklaces! I purchased the Sacred Heart one during Lent of this year and wear it all the time! It's dainty, lightweight, and is full of detail. I am currently eyeing her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/210880659/autumn-colors-necklace-mini-embroidery?ref=shop_home_active_14">Autumn Colors</a> necklace that she just put in her Etsy shop this week, along with a hoard of other Autumn, Thanksgiving, and Christmas designs! Again, this one screams Autumn and makes me weepy. Gotta love pregnancy hormones!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkYxvFHRJcLM3RVJpswgI-9c31rVqM1OqjKCNiZi2wwVWeLJs0BSI_WSOufFr0HjZWO0l-qJvO9iGJ4xtJsvTpqIYplpC9x1NxDdL5m-51vNzxpC0vAQxkzyUumgx3eKb1cK7JbVnjT4/s1600/il_570xN.681448937_4fn7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkYxvFHRJcLM3RVJpswgI-9c31rVqM1OqjKCNiZi2wwVWeLJs0BSI_WSOufFr0HjZWO0l-qJvO9iGJ4xtJsvTpqIYplpC9x1NxDdL5m-51vNzxpC0vAQxkzyUumgx3eKb1cK7JbVnjT4/s1600/il_570xN.681448937_4fn7.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Last year, right before Thanksgiving, I took a gander to Orange Thyme's Etsy shop because someone had favorited her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/83726308/pumpkin-cheesecake-lip-balm?ref=shop_home_active_9">'Pumpkin Cheesecake' lip balm</a>. Really? Pumpkin AND cheesecake? Sign me up! I received it, and loved it, and then it got washed and dryer with the laundry. I was so bummed. How could I have done that to my favorite flavored lip balm? I'll definitely be ordering another one soon to replace mine. It's delish!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_cb6HhR7pkzH8ks1n-viScRR_NxhVbOPCmJN1fhuDT6Hx9KKoj-ApJnWpzdN73UuTZUaXLZKtyfIQuEyJTNzbjNQmeY7k7Ek3d8wtzZPYPi_-OMXYPY2EjZZiWGT5FxriDXllAycB-E/s1600/il_570xN.373806608_duqs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_cb6HhR7pkzH8ks1n-viScRR_NxhVbOPCmJN1fhuDT6Hx9KKoj-ApJnWpzdN73UuTZUaXLZKtyfIQuEyJTNzbjNQmeY7k7Ek3d8wtzZPYPi_-OMXYPY2EjZZiWGT5FxriDXllAycB-E/s1600/il_570xN.373806608_duqs.jpg" height="259" width="320" /></a></div>
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A couple other random gorgeous Autumn items I ran into this week on Etsy are:</div>
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This wreath (and a few hundred others) from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVioletteBloom?ref=related-shop-1&ga_search_query=autumn+wreath&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">The Violette Bloom</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167722005/thanksgiving-wreath-acorn-wreath-fall?ref=shop_home_feat_2"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1C1w4pGVY85MX6NY8-eN-kDLWRW0XMogrYiMwi7csUwlijQWmsTK9cMMsRvbtxVz_GyPmJVSZh-6A3sbjt192QdMmATwqrPJToMFiT3l9MtKwJkSwBI3mCBofYOZHEKDnivGmp7YM45A/s1600/il_570xN.520140646_8ial.jpg" height="320" width="298" /></a></div>
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This centerpiece from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheCreativeQ?ref=l2-shopheader-name">TheCreativeQ</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/206913301/fall-thanksgiving-centerpiece-autumn?ref=fp_item&atr_uid=14918055&aref=18785492190"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZhOu9HOzXY02gpl0eiMA8QWwx5GqNk11gM3MOP4FkicPpjlk3Rh_Qe3RuZfJ8UvWc2C11iWdCl8N1lmAv5bGbow58KwqlL5SsYR32OPMtrWfttcb5HjRss4vnVsERjpjR85veNaHlKfY/s1600/il_570xN.666449183_1p48.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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These earrings from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TRLTJewelry?ref=l2-shopheader-name">TRTL Jewelry</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164909949/on-sale-fall-earrings-autumn-earrings?ref=sr_gallery_22&ga_search_query=autumn+earrings&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPGDi1zdNXaBoFUpu1mEdIVcHP5PdedEnDHZWECYMLxFtedUiQIbTu-BUPwOBnZslpXa9s2QS1n_gN0joF4oZ6l9g6nDgfi1ipMCBnhV9cOszyiv-sBHyXTtHl4od962p382j14h1638/s1600/il_570xN.509714016_2mpp.jpg" height="320" width="245" /></a></div>
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And, of course, I have to put in a plug for my own small business! I crafted this <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/211732866/orange-olivine-topaz-and-garnet-preciosa?ref=shop_home_active_2">Warm Autumn rosary</a> today and it is now listed here, and it's CHEAP! It's made with Preciosa crystal bicones and pearls. I like it so much, I might just keep it, so snatch it before it's gone ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11VH_PHbkCGEoNFvZSAfYQ5_IwBGbsIflbeS-FRvC4ccbATBnKO_L17IrgixZEx3nSdXiO7l2brXekz9_AN1vIxZtHg2dIpEPfkRAkwhM36FNo-j7B_fZviIP7zA9840dkIJ1r5yxD3U/s1600/il_570xN.684649792_gf7z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11VH_PHbkCGEoNFvZSAfYQ5_IwBGbsIflbeS-FRvC4ccbATBnKO_L17IrgixZEx3nSdXiO7l2brXekz9_AN1vIxZtHg2dIpEPfkRAkwhM36FNo-j7B_fZviIP7zA9840dkIJ1r5yxD3U/s1600/il_570xN.684649792_gf7z.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Thanks for hanging out with me again! I'll try to make it on here again before Baby is born ;)</div>
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-54236292151143289082014-08-01T07:00:00.000-07:002014-08-01T08:09:22.355-07:00I've Been a Small Business Owner for a Year -- A Giveaway!Last August was a huge month for me, both good and bad. I received my fabulous ITP diagnosis and spent 2 nights in the hospital, and I also registered with the state for my business license! August has historically always been an eventful month for me, mainly for my accident-proneness! A few broken elbows, and an awesome "L" scar that I got at Mukilteo Beach when I was 9. Memories that will stick with me forever.<br />
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Since I've been in "the biz" for a year now, I wanted to do another giveaway to celebrate this momentous occasion! This time, instead of having a premade one ready to ship, I thought I'd make a custom Swarovski bicone and pearl pocket rosary! You can take a gander over at <a href="http://www.fusionbeads.com/Swarovski-Elements-Crystal-Mixes#!Swarovski-Elements-Crystal-Mixes">FusionBeads.com</a> and find some lovely mixes! I typically make them with the 6mm ones, but you can browse any other sizes and just let me know which mix you prefer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuUOEUENqyTKVGipkChJ_Ibw69Bqe-Dy5b2E-NN0kktXuaBaJY7FCQyrdjnu_wX6qzQJdlP0-Uz_Ih5pYt1a1_YS_BED6QfAxadQ1JGEOofUgHQyzzBP6STYHicIpiQ4w4aYndu_q-EA/s640/blogger-image-165226698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuUOEUENqyTKVGipkChJ_Ibw69Bqe-Dy5b2E-NN0kktXuaBaJY7FCQyrdjnu_wX6qzQJdlP0-Uz_Ih5pYt1a1_YS_BED6QfAxadQ1JGEOofUgHQyzzBP6STYHicIpiQ4w4aYndu_q-EA/s320/blogger-image-165226698.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here are some examples</td></tr>
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You can have that be one of your entries for the Rafflecopter...commenting with your favorite Swarovski bicone mix! The contest will start today (August 1) and run through midnight on August 15. I hope to have the pocket rosary out to the winner by month end! Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support during this past year. I am truly blessed to have a successful business that I LOVE running, and I don't feel like it's a job!<br />
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<a id="rc-a6f9f9a63" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/a6f9f9a63/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script>Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-32868454510829021192014-07-31T20:52:00.000-07:002014-07-31T20:52:01.538-07:00Rosaries by Allison - Mini SpotlightHere are a few of my newest items, and newly renewed items in my Etsy shop. I still always accept custom requests, so send me a message on the Etsy messaging system and we can design your dream rosary!
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<script src="https://www.etsy.com/assets/js/etsy_mini_shop.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">new Etsy.Mini(6598928,'gallery',2,4,0,'https://www.etsy.com');</script><br />
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<br />Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-49932989809352770672014-07-31T20:33:00.001-07:002014-07-31T20:33:11.165-07:00Arcade Fire - InterventionThis musical element song is epic. It has a pipe organ! It reminds me of being in church. Anyway, here's a video from a performance on "Austin City Limits" in 2007.<br />
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<br />Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-4779342382930969682014-07-31T09:23:00.002-07:002014-07-31T09:23:41.671-07:00Pumpkin Recipe #2: Pumpkin Apple PancakesBreakfast for dinner is one of my favorite things...brinner, as we call it in my house. I decided since I have canned pumpkin in my fridge, to have these delicious pancakes for dinner tonight, and post the recipe for my fellow pumpkin lovers to enjoy! I have <a href="http://thecoffeecatholic.blogspot.com/2014/02/meatless-lenten-meal-plan.html">previously posted this recipe on my blog</a>, during the Lenten season, so some of you may have already seen this one, but it's definitely worth repeating.<br />
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This recipe I got from the TV show "<a href="http://www.thechew.com/" target="_blank">The Chew</a>." One of the viewers "won" with her Pumpkin Apple Pancake recipe. I couldn't wait to try them when I saw the episode, and I'm so glad I did because we have them often! So delish!<br />
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<a href="http://abc.go.com/shows/the-chew/recipes/Pumpkin-Apple-Pancakes-Mia-Rogers" target="_blank">MIA ROGERS' PUMPKIN APPLE PANCAKES</a></h4>
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Ingredients:</div>
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1c flour</div>
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1 1/2t baking powder</div>
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1/2t cinnamon</div>
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1/4t nutmeg</div>
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1/8t ginger</div>
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1T butter, melted</div>
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1/2c pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)</div>
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1/4c brown sugar</div>
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1/4t salt</div>
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1 egg, lightly beaten</div>
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1c buttermilk*</div>
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1/3c peeled, diced apple (I usually use 1 apple)</div>
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Caramelized Apple Topping:</div>
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1 apple, thinly sliced</div>
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1T butter</div>
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2T brown sugar</div>
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(I usually double this recipe, because I love it so much! And really, who wants a scant amount of this apple-y goodness on their pancakes?!)</div>
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*If you don't have buttermilk, put 1T of lemon juice in a liquid measuring cup and fill with milk until it reaches 1c. Whisk it to combine, then let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes, until it's curdled. Mix it up and voila! You have your buttermilk substitute!</div>
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Directions:</div>
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In a medium bowl, toss in your flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. In a smaller bowl, place your egg, melted butter, diced apple, pumpkin puree, and buttermilk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and let stand for about 5 minutes. At this point, you can now make your caramelized apple topping!</div>
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In a large-ish skillet, melt your butter (here's where I'd use 2T...okay maybe 3 or 4T of butter!) over medium-ish heat. Add your brown sugar and apples and stir until the apples are nice and soft, and slightly golden (8ish minutes). (I can tell you from experience, that using one of those apple peeler/corer/slicers will save you so much time...do it!)</div>
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(This is my husband, being an awesome assistant, caramelizing the apples. Don't you love the action shot?!)</div>
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To cook your pancakes, scoop up 1/3c of the batter and plop it onto your preheated griddle. Cook on one side until it's bubbly, then flip and cook another 1 1/2ish minutes. When they are done, top with your delicious caramelized apples, some warm maple syrup, and maybe...just maybe...some brown sugar!</div>
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(Here is an unnecessary photo of the pancakes almost finished cooking.)</div>
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(The plated goodness.)</div>
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The recipe says it serves 4 people, but I can easily eat 4 of these delicious suckers myself! Enjoy!</div>
Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-5592253368750961532014-07-29T20:18:00.003-07:002014-07-29T20:18:37.239-07:00Arcade Fire - Next WeekThe first Arcade Fire song I heard, back in 2005, was "Rebellion (Lies)," from their "Funeral" album, and I must say, I fell in love. I would listen to it on repeat for hours on end, and never get tired of listening to it. I eventually purchased the entire album and loved it. I purchased their subsequent albums, and my deep love for them increased immensely when "The Suburbs" hit stores. Every day to work. Every day from work. I spun that album. I knew (maybe still know) all the words by heart, and my absolute favorite song of theirs is on that album.<br />
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I will finally be getting the chance to see them live...NEXT WEEK! This will be my first concert at the Gorge, and I am so excited I can hardly stand it. It will be a great distraction from the one-year anniversary since my ITP diagnosis, and I already know I will love it.<br />
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I will be posting Arcade Videos for the next 2 weeks, until the show next Friday. For today, here's "Rebellion (Lies)."<br />
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<br />Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-24489471540523514632014-07-29T19:56:00.001-07:002014-07-29T19:56:13.869-07:00Pumpkin Recipe #1: Pumpkin Cream Cheese SpreadThis. Is absolutely one of my favorite pumpkin delights that we enjoy in my house. I could literally eat it with a spoon, but that's probably not the wisest thing...so many calories and all. I got this recipe from my good friend Haley, who is a self-proclaimed foodie, and I agree! She always has the most delicious recipes and I've never been disappointed...ever!<br />
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I have so many pumpkin recipes on my Pinterest boards, and I am hoping to make a dent in some of them this coming Autumn, and not just make my favorite ones like I usually do. Lots of treats, so hopefully I'll have the energy to try some of the new ones out!<br />
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I cannot for the life of me find where I pinned this darned recipe, and every new one I look at is not the one I have! I hate to not give credit where credit is due, but I might just have to call this recipe my own? Kidding! I'm just gonna grab one and adapt it. Here goes...<br />
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<a href="http://www.laaloosh.com/2010/10/07/pumpkin-cream-cheese-recipe/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+LaaLoosh+(LaaLoosh)&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">Pumpkin Cream Cheese Recipe</a> (Adapted from LaLoosh)</h4>
Ingredients:<br />
8 oz softened cream cheese<br />
1/2c pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)<br />
1/4c sugar<br />
3/4t pumpkin pie spice<br />
1/2t vanilla<br />
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Toss all ingredients into a medium-ish bowl and beat with an electric mixer until it's nice and smooth. Refrigeration is recommended, for an hour, then you can spread on bagels and the like. My favorite is to put it on cinnamon raisin bagels!<br />
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I hope you enjoy this as much as my family and I do!</div>
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-55250262561038977072014-07-24T18:51:00.000-07:002014-07-24T18:51:34.290-07:00Current NovenasI like to be in the middle of a novena, and not have space in between them. It helps me keep a somewhat prayerful life. Sometimes it's hard for me to get motivated to pray, so this helps me get started, and then I can pray a rosary meaningfully right afterward.<br />
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I am currently in the middle of three novenas. Today is Day 8 of the one to St. Anne, and Day 8 <a href="http://www.ewtn.com/Devotionals/novena/Purgatory.htm">for the Holy Souls in Purgatory</a>. Today is also the second day for St. Alphonsus, whom I had never heard of before. I typically wrote out the prayers in a journal, and have nearly filled my first one up in just over a year. Writing them out helps me to focus, and to be away from the distractions of the computer. Even though I get the reminders for most of them in one of my Facebook groups, it's still nice to step away and pray.<br />
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Do you have any novena recommendations for me? Would you like me to pray a novena for you for an important matter? Please feel free to comment below, or you can email me allisonnoelle@hotmail.com. I'm excited to start another journal, as the one I have has Celtic knots on it! It's so pretty! Mary has served me well for the past year, but I'm ready to be more Irish ;)<br />
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-32387172440808778892014-07-24T14:24:00.002-07:002014-07-24T15:02:00.176-07:00Back to 123, Annual Training, and an End to 100 Happy DaysI'm back on monthly CBCs for my hematologist, and I had another draw on Monday. I had a feeling they were going to be up, and I was right! They went from 116k to 123k! I didn't even have to email my hematologist to ask if they results were in yet, because the hospital system was working correctly, which seems to be rare ;) They were at exactly this number back in March, which is making me hopeful that they will continue to rise and hit 'normal' sometime soon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDlc4sZ8PX_qCtVXpn1RkNGSk0Qen7GqUIfJVw9N9G0XEKdWjVfS_LYMuRb9kO9NOq6CzD0fOK_KCGer149ib6sWHJ-vtVbNtMeHz_ji8iThwEnN1u7PEaFrwa5YlhCPBdSmbsVRGTdw/s1600/ChartImg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDlc4sZ8PX_qCtVXpn1RkNGSk0Qen7GqUIfJVw9N9G0XEKdWjVfS_LYMuRb9kO9NOq6CzD0fOK_KCGer149ib6sWHJ-vtVbNtMeHz_ji8iThwEnN1u7PEaFrwa5YlhCPBdSmbsVRGTdw/s1600/ChartImg.png" height="245" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is a graph of my entire ITP journey thus far.</div>
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Chris has been in or around Yakima (even 2 days in Redmond for inventory!) for his Annual Training for Army since July 12. It has been very hard him being away. A lot of the days, the girls misbehave (typical, not just when Daddy's gone) but when he didn't come home at night for me to have a little break, it was even harder. He did get to come home and sleep for the 2 days he was in Redmond, so that was a nice surprise. He still doesn't know for sure if he will be helping fight the wildfires going on in central Washington. His 2 weeks is up this coming Sunday, and still no official word, which is frustrating for more than just me. Praying for tons more rain where it's needed, and that he can come home on Sunday as planned. We have a friend who was activated to fight the fires, so please keep Dusten in your prayers, along with his wife Heidi. OH! I forgot to mention Chris was promoted to SSG while in AT, so that's a bonus!<br />
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I didn't mention this before, but I participated in the 100 Happy Days challenge, like a lot of people have. I successfully completed it, and got a ton of compliments and feedback that I should do it again! I've decided that I'm going to start it again on August 1st. For those of you that follow my Instagram (<a href="http://instagram.com/allisonnoelle" target="_blank">allisonnoelle</a>), all of my photos were tagged with the #100happydays. There's probably a huge long list if you just search for that, though!<br />
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Here are a few of my favorites:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Z60BHvhecwXkXOU-dITM8xZygBBg_7M2tNnLOCkqCgeJQVYboosM9oL_6MtN32q5g4pTCDIAJG_dLyYA3BZUlcO_4OOU99fk_fMB9MwBoqsaiVeGLqh-fcvRnT5ALtsFHIhdXFZKIFw/s640/blogger-image--1841191477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Z60BHvhecwXkXOU-dITM8xZygBBg_7M2tNnLOCkqCgeJQVYboosM9oL_6MtN32q5g4pTCDIAJG_dLyYA3BZUlcO_4OOU99fk_fMB9MwBoqsaiVeGLqh-fcvRnT5ALtsFHIhdXFZKIFw/s200/blogger-image--1841191477.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTj7sVaJsCKIuzfZx5d8GpeaflwlKWRiY54JulMU3I3JEcK-v9EwzmvtRUb-uFDHF0bfFugrK36bfxZse5ZbWm27mQtXIUtnRKmEKPn2IpZ-Wzs79sZc_yDt56uhootbS8HUla_SBqyA/s640/blogger-image-2081055950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTj7sVaJsCKIuzfZx5d8GpeaflwlKWRiY54JulMU3I3JEcK-v9EwzmvtRUb-uFDHF0bfFugrK36bfxZse5ZbWm27mQtXIUtnRKmEKPn2IpZ-Wzs79sZc_yDt56uhootbS8HUla_SBqyA/s200/blogger-image-2081055950.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 15</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJU5qWpu3Tk-mH7PqIWLclQfN9f2kc7dd3KVFwlpurPJ5o7iP4mbfh9Nu6Zb1TSFKh5jVxbaAVcIENkuiJXSHrjwXv8cBN78yFZla6Sa38Ba_gPrJRR5BdR9HlLrdlgJUFHsv7NrA9fE/s1600/blogger-image--1482330351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJU5qWpu3Tk-mH7PqIWLclQfN9f2kc7dd3KVFwlpurPJ5o7iP4mbfh9Nu6Zb1TSFKh5jVxbaAVcIENkuiJXSHrjwXv8cBN78yFZla6Sa38Ba_gPrJRR5BdR9HlLrdlgJUFHsv7NrA9fE/s1600/blogger-image--1482330351.jpg" height="196" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 38</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfabZ_YXKXqrKhEDIP4cXeTI8uruI3bA_35COwFjh5af-erN-c6GGugdLBcubM3g-YLEYJYOHIL_O9I2MRrkgXSjhFOJAjnA_sJnTrMjtI31FUGg4R_S0oFUSEq4PNGWzeTw_3zrgrbU/s1600/blogger-image--1795081210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfabZ_YXKXqrKhEDIP4cXeTI8uruI3bA_35COwFjh5af-erN-c6GGugdLBcubM3g-YLEYJYOHIL_O9I2MRrkgXSjhFOJAjnA_sJnTrMjtI31FUGg4R_S0oFUSEq4PNGWzeTw_3zrgrbU/s1600/blogger-image--1795081210.jpg" height="191" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 57</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCl5QQe-YPYLOhwaLupq_cKZQGxwr32s6l5_yUwSubTd-58MZW2EjDex-2JoqU3TjGdTbpdyWJNqKTl8YMuo8iTX9JK1ds_UDfwtheh76IQWBZX-wsjwQAvy2mSs4SF3eKcnRbZHUPOVw/s640/blogger-image-1148059906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCl5QQe-YPYLOhwaLupq_cKZQGxwr32s6l5_yUwSubTd-58MZW2EjDex-2JoqU3TjGdTbpdyWJNqKTl8YMuo8iTX9JK1ds_UDfwtheh76IQWBZX-wsjwQAvy2mSs4SF3eKcnRbZHUPOVw/s200/blogger-image-1148059906.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 79</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNqAUR__jYq-IaGVr2OhMaFPyv3_mZwCq97pNWQGkl9D_6hSwqS4lTalt2f17EblNs_h_vmxM99c1K6oOJr2pEgEZW50zOnocuW48zicmEcTl-c87FFqcdcnCBEmg6MWqDR1kqYp3dfs/s640/blogger-image--436429858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNqAUR__jYq-IaGVr2OhMaFPyv3_mZwCq97pNWQGkl9D_6hSwqS4lTalt2f17EblNs_h_vmxM99c1K6oOJr2pEgEZW50zOnocuW48zicmEcTl-c87FFqcdcnCBEmg6MWqDR1kqYp3dfs/s200/blogger-image--436429858.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 93</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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One more thing...I will probably be doing another giveaway in the month of August for my business! It'll to celebrate me being a small business owner for an entire year! I still have to think of what I'm going to do, so stay tuned!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHQrSRDQcnHKJUlWmk1gkiLXNwyLKnYQq6yZIniOnlzMGkzJ5r71MIQnI8IlIpejfvykndi9pAKGBEfXd-WUVBmM0eBxVtRv0vkK70V3x2HdEqm4s6jRDtRy1wbdb2a4W-0ivV0EZWEg/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-50C0C693A5D1823EBE10545B8F303188.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHQrSRDQcnHKJUlWmk1gkiLXNwyLKnYQq6yZIniOnlzMGkzJ5r71MIQnI8IlIpejfvykndi9pAKGBEfXd-WUVBmM0eBxVtRv0vkK70V3x2HdEqm4s6jRDtRy1wbdb2a4W-0ivV0EZWEg/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-50C0C693A5D1823EBE10545B8F303188.png" /></a></div>
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P.S. Pumpkin is making its way back into my house already (in the form of pumpkin cream cheese)! Squee! (That means recipes coming!)</div>
Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-76958684831979041862014-07-14T16:49:00.000-07:002014-07-14T16:49:16.341-07:00I'm Back...Sort of...and a Special Etsy OfferI haven't blogged in nearly three months. I haven't had the desire to. The family has been busy with travel and National Guard and hematology appointments (116 was my last number! Woohoo!)<br />
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I do want to let everyone know about the smashing awesome sale going on over in my <a href="http://allisonkinyon.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a> through Saturday, July 19. When you purchase a full 5-decade rosary, I will throw in a FREE pocket rosary, up to $7! That's right...FREE! Just let me know at checkout what your choice is between the ones I have for sale in my shop. I haven't ever done this before, and I hope people enjoy it and take advantage of this offer. Pocket rosaries are wonderful for keeping in your car (or pocket!) because they're so compact and barely take up any room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGKNHEe8KboXwnxVuh4dsU7m-uzNfbKjWcUffj3TV4s9d5aGg4UH99SU8LJdQqQbZHaa2PRKfcNoL-2xbyOMd9kkScnfdl3cxoJzBKgp76OoHZCUyz95Jyr7LFKTEVpjRjAcRx_nxraU/s1600/il_570xN.577757118_437b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGKNHEe8KboXwnxVuh4dsU7m-uzNfbKjWcUffj3TV4s9d5aGg4UH99SU8LJdQqQbZHaa2PRKfcNoL-2xbyOMd9kkScnfdl3cxoJzBKgp76OoHZCUyz95Jyr7LFKTEVpjRjAcRx_nxraU/s1600/il_570xN.577757118_437b.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGKNHEe8KboXwnxVuh4dsU7m-uzNfbKjWcUffj3TV4s9d5aGg4UH99SU8LJdQqQbZHaa2PRKfcNoL-2xbyOMd9kkScnfdl3cxoJzBKgp76OoHZCUyz95Jyr7LFKTEVpjRjAcRx_nxraU/s1600/il_570xN.577757118_437b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieKwJli25cJCelxZz7bMQYSKKMMLqka6Jh3bQBwHP0hnIIWiC7I5u9bkVDiecsDAYZBANtYriz5idph5iKPGoen2nC4Rt_feZI_3zTBTQLibyo43gl8TSqM6cCZlk_NjY0E2V6qAE1Mhg/s1600/1235072_10103475282552801_334302843_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieKwJli25cJCelxZz7bMQYSKKMMLqka6Jh3bQBwHP0hnIIWiC7I5u9bkVDiecsDAYZBANtYriz5idph5iKPGoen2nC4Rt_feZI_3zTBTQLibyo43gl8TSqM6cCZlk_NjY0E2V6qAE1Mhg/s1600/1235072_10103475282552801_334302843_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Thanks for stopping by!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHQrSRDQcnHKJUlWmk1gkiLXNwyLKnYQq6yZIniOnlzMGkzJ5r71MIQnI8IlIpejfvykndi9pAKGBEfXd-WUVBmM0eBxVtRv0vkK70V3x2HdEqm4s6jRDtRy1wbdb2a4W-0ivV0EZWEg/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-50C0C693A5D1823EBE10545B8F303188.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHQrSRDQcnHKJUlWmk1gkiLXNwyLKnYQq6yZIniOnlzMGkzJ5r71MIQnI8IlIpejfvykndi9pAKGBEfXd-WUVBmM0eBxVtRv0vkK70V3x2HdEqm4s6jRDtRy1wbdb2a4W-0ivV0EZWEg/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-50C0C693A5D1823EBE10545B8F303188.png" /></a></div>
<br />Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-73422986075527159302014-04-19T15:27:00.002-07:002014-04-19T15:27:42.029-07:00One Year Later, It's Finished - A Conversion Story
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">*Disclaimer
before reading…it is very choppy. I started writing this right after conversion
and finished it a year later!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">A little more
than a year ago, I was content at my Protestant church and attending my weekly
Bible study with Chris and our friends. As the ‘worship’ music grew louder week
by week, and I had commented on the connection card every week how loud it was,
I became less comfortable with the way I was worshipping, and felt a void. I
also felt that void in our Bible study. There was a church-wide study going on,
instead of a group-specific study. They glued a disclaimer in the front of it,
telling us that there are some parts they don’t agree with one hundred percent.
I was confused and somewhat angry. Why is there a difference in doctrine between
“Protestant Church A” and “Protestant Church B?” The gears in my head started
turning…I had longed for tradition and reverence and I wasn’t feeling that with
our Protestant church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Backing up a
bit, Chris had been interested in the Catholic Church, had a ton of books about
Catholicism, conversion stories, and had been trying to get me to go to a
Catholic church pretty much since we’d been married. I thought it was too weird
and too structured, and that I wasn’t able to worship how I pleased. And the
crossing one’s self, and the genuflecting, and the same prayers every week. How
could this be counted as worship?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">As I had discussed
with Chris the issues I was having, he agreed, of course. He was probably like,
“FINALLY!” Ha! He made a pile of books for me to read and we started a list of
other churches to visit. My list had Protestant churches, and his did not. At
the time, I didn’t realize that I didn’t want to be Protestant anymore. I was
like, “Hey, let’s check out the church my parents were married in and I was
baptized in! That would be so cool!” Chris said that he wanted to either be
Catholic or Orthodox. “Okay, I’ll give them a shot, but I don’t want to go back
to Holy Rosary because it’s way too blue!” I said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We narrowed our
church search to four churches: St. Patrick, St. Andrew, Holy Disciples, and
All Saints. We had been to All Saints before for their Christmas Eve Mass.
There were a few reasons we decided not to attend there. First, the altar is in
the middle of the church. The pews are also really squished together, which
makes it difficult for our toddlers to stand and walk around as they please. No
one really talked to us, either. Holy Disciples was next, but their church is
more of a large gathering space with chairs set up and the altar up front. St.
Andrew was great (I threw up there, thanks to being pregnant with Nora at the
time). We also didn’t really feel all that welcome, probably because we were
giving off that Protestant vibe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">As we drove to
St. Patrick, I had a feeling this one was it. I had seen the church before, and
it is absolutely beautiful. Also, what Irish girl doesn’t love an Irish saint?
We headed in and felt instantly welcomed. I was still uneasy attending a Mass
because I couldn’t fully participate…I still didn’t know the order of the Mass
(and couldn’t receive the Eucharist yet) but I still felt like this was the one
God was calling us to. After Mass, a woman came up to us and complimented us on
how well-behaved Hannah was, and said she hadn’t seen us before and welcomed
us. Wow. That was the kicker!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We grabbed a
parish bulletin and headed home. We pretty much emailed the RCIA instructor
straight away about enrolling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I had picked up
a book called “Surprised By Truth,” which I’m sure many Catholics have read.
Chris is friends with Paul Thigpen, whose story was in there, and his was the
only one I read before deciding that yes, indeed, I wanted to become Catholic.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Fast forwarding
to the beginning of RCIA. We weren’t new believers to Christianity, so a lot of
the history we had already known.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Nora was born at
the end of October.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We learned about
the Mass and the Sacraments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We had the Rite
of Election, the Rite of Sending, and the Chrism Mass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We had our first
Reconciliation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Holy Thursday
Mass, Good Friday service. And then the Easter Vigil. Everyone cried.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Chris and I
(Michael and Veronica) were Confirmed, and Hannah and Nora were baptized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We received the
Eucharist. We were now fully Catholic. And boy is it amazing.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHQrSRDQcnHKJUlWmk1gkiLXNwyLKnYQq6yZIniOnlzMGkzJ5r71MIQnI8IlIpejfvykndi9pAKGBEfXd-WUVBmM0eBxVtRv0vkK70V3x2HdEqm4s6jRDtRy1wbdb2a4W-0ivV0EZWEg/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-50C0C693A5D1823EBE10545B8F303188.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHQrSRDQcnHKJUlWmk1gkiLXNwyLKnYQq6yZIniOnlzMGkzJ5r71MIQnI8IlIpejfvykndi9pAKGBEfXd-WUVBmM0eBxVtRv0vkK70V3x2HdEqm4s6jRDtRy1wbdb2a4W-0ivV0EZWEg/s1600/http---signatures.mylivesignature.com-54492-76-50C0C693A5D1823EBE10545B8F303188.png" /></a></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-52561261342234423582014-04-01T10:36:00.001-07:002014-04-01T13:27:12.371-07:00Pocket Rosary or Chaplet Giveaway...NO JOKE!I've decided to direct my uneasiness today by offering a giveaway! I couldn't decide on whether to give away a pocket rosary or one of my chaplets, so I'm leaving that choice up to the winner! (US residents only, and no previous winners will be eligible.)<br />
<br />
You can tweet about the giveaway, follow me on Twitter (<a href="http://twitter.com/kinyonallison">@kinyonallison</a>), leave a comment below <i>Which would you choose if you won?</i> or like my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RosariesByAllison">Facebook page</a>! Contest will run through today and I'll announce the winner tomorrow!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgen2yEUyrHdLwNoJeD4gicqvcFJlBoLcqCEAWANmt3Rj2Z4tZ3YTJ160yvoM0eztbPWPNnwYXGpyiRNCIUKAM8PPqb_ibj4t0s0W4BJjO57rpAMYHGOXABCHli1OCDvA93oJv_v-u-o74/s640/blogger-image-1861980635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgen2yEUyrHdLwNoJeD4gicqvcFJlBoLcqCEAWANmt3Rj2Z4tZ3YTJ160yvoM0eztbPWPNnwYXGpyiRNCIUKAM8PPqb_ibj4t0s0W4BJjO57rpAMYHGOXABCHli1OCDvA93oJv_v-u-o74/s400/blogger-image-1861980635.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Here is a photo of the choices! (Matte emerald Czech beads, amethyst opal Czech beads, rose pink fire polished beads, dark garnet fire polished beads, blue turquoise Czech beads, and the St. Dymphna and St. Jude chaplets)<br />
<br />
<br />
Now for the Rafflecopter!
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/a6f9f92/" id="rc-a6f9f92" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-68925840416056240042014-03-27T14:05:00.002-07:002014-03-27T14:29:04.708-07:00Rosaries, Mother's Bracelets, and an ITP UpdateI had a post rolling around in my head yesterday, didn't make any notes, and now it has escaped my brain. Don't you just <i>love</i> that? ;) Instead, I'll just post some photos of some rosaries and other pieces I've been working on!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8XUH-dJaEzn7EIUh9qHWZ4sVuOJ4hyLzr6iQ-CthHPLfOx-4rDY5jNPfZHjJDgDVzath-YCLX1wmJrer8tWnduvV-m2tOtqrwRqp84rAxgVVdZ0HqkWPNLGnT9bI3-ffsdeNFmrhh8w/s1600/1978773_10103519219013781_2112650834_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8XUH-dJaEzn7EIUh9qHWZ4sVuOJ4hyLzr6iQ-CthHPLfOx-4rDY5jNPfZHjJDgDVzath-YCLX1wmJrer8tWnduvV-m2tOtqrwRqp84rAxgVVdZ0HqkWPNLGnT9bI3-ffsdeNFmrhh8w/s1600/1978773_10103519219013781_2112650834_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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A bronze St. Joseph rosary with Jet Czech glass beads. A woman ordered this for her husband because he's worn out his other one from so much use!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPm4vZ3JcgbnukcfOHBnQca7gvuor73mUk0c7ZWfxBuloLZHxYX_ktUaKWxzbdyyA_1L1Dru96uKag5K5Cu4dA-N-z9LHnGm07km40IA7oAqs1S_ZX4YAknjHgmAAAWNKZB2DStWe3iPs/s1600/10155623_10103519767250111_1923228236_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPm4vZ3JcgbnukcfOHBnQca7gvuor73mUk0c7ZWfxBuloLZHxYX_ktUaKWxzbdyyA_1L1Dru96uKag5K5Cu4dA-N-z9LHnGm07km40IA7oAqs1S_ZX4YAknjHgmAAAWNKZB2DStWe3iPs/s1600/10155623_10103519767250111_1923228236_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Carnelian gemstone with a chalice center. This one will hit the <a href="http://allisonkinyon.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a> today, so if you need a rosary for a little First Communicant, head on over today!</div>
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Mother's bracelets! (Yes, the top one is mine...) The bottom one is a rosary bracelet with saints for the mother's sons on it! (I've been making quite a few of these, and am still taking orders for them!)</div>
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I REMEMBERED WHAT I WAS GOING TO BLOG ABOUT!!!</div>
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I had my hematology appointment yesterday. Pretty much no news and no changes. I'll still be going in every other week for a blood draw and I'll still be on 5mg of Prednisone every day (boo!) and a follow up appointment in 3 months. I'm hoping that my platelets continue to rise or stay where they are, and then there is a possibility of dropping my dose. So ready to be done with Prednisone...well...ITP for that matter. (Doc shot down my theory that chiropractic has helped my platelet levels. Anyway, I'm still going to keep maintaining and pretend she didn't say the things she said...)</div>
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And a cute photo of my girls. This was Nora's first time in the car cart at Safeway!</div>
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Okay, I guess that's all for now! I need to prepare for Bible study! Must brew more <a href="http://www.mysticmonkcoffee.com/store/index.php">Mystic Monk</a> coffee! (I just got the Irish Cream blend...yum-o!)</div>
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-41558270698868237112014-03-24T21:50:00.002-07:002014-03-24T21:50:19.469-07:001-2-3, a Picnic at the Park, and the Lenten Rosary WinnerI'll start off by saying that <a href="http://twoosplusmore.blogspot.com/">Sarah O.</a> won the Lenten rosary! (Converts unite ;)) I've mailed it out and hope she receives it soon! Thank you all for entering the giveaway!<br />
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Blood draw day was today. It was the draw before my hematology appointment that I have on Wednesday. I had been nervous for a few days prior to this, because I'd been feeling drained of energy and had experienced a couple bloody noses. I was praying that the platelets had at least stayed above 70, with the previous draw being 74 two weeks ago. (Thanks to everyone on Twitter who prayed for me while I went in and had my blood drawn, and then the waiting that happened until I received the results.)<br />
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There was a bit of a wait because I went in later than normal. Thankfully the time passed quickly and my name was called to have my blood drawn. Typical every-other-week activities...sitting in the chair, initialing that the information was correct, flashing my vein, and in goes the needle. The bleeding didn't stop immediately, so I was worried that my platelets had plummeted. The phlebotomist told me to apply more pressure and it finally stopped enough so she could put the bandage on my arm.<br />
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I gathered my things and my daughters and headed back to the car. We then headed to the grocery store to purchase items for our picnic! Food items were chosen, we paid, headed back to the car, and drove to the park. Goodness it was such a gorgeous day!<br />
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Hannah's friends Sofi and Lily were there with us, along with River, Oliver, and Noah. Great time in the sun and having the littles run around and burn off some energy!<br />
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Photo of Hannah and her BFF Sofi holding hands <3</div>
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We came home for a bit before heading to the store to get things to make dinner (we had the always-delectable Sesame Beef with Broccoli). During the time spent at home before heading there, the results to my blood draw came. Every time I get that email, I say a Hail Mary then open up the results. What I saw in there, I didn't expect. It started like this: "Wow, your platelets rebounded. Are you still taking Prednisone 5 mg daily?" I scrolled down and saw the number: <b>123</b>. I immediately started to cry and thank God for His wonderful mercies. I called Chris, then my mom, then my dad. They were all very surprised and extremely happy. My levels haven't been over 100 since the beginning of October, and that was only 101. They were 118 in mid-September. I am hoping and praying that my immune system is healing itself and won't be killing off my platelets anymore. Autoimmune diseases are no fun, especially ones, like ITP, where doctors have no idea why the immune system is attacking itself. If you see this blog post, please pray that they continue to rise into normal range (145-400), even though I'd be perfectly happy if they remain where they are. 123 is a phenomenal number, and my midwife informed me that anything above 120 is fine in her practice. This makes me VERY happy!</div>
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My crazy-wacky chart of my platelet levels since my hospitalization. Can you say roller coaster?</div>
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Anyway, the girls are now in bed (hopefully for the night) and it's time to relax and pop some bubbly with the husband in celebration of the great news received today! Good night and God bless you all!</div>
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-64916802821482108812014-03-15T18:42:00.001-07:002014-03-15T18:42:26.018-07:00The Catholic Army Chaplain That is Not My HusbandStrange title, no?<br />
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Yesterday the girls and I went to Vercillo's to pick up a few medals for some mother's bracelets I'm making. I can't say it's a normal occurrence to see a priest there. The only other priest I've seen is Fr. Deo Gratias, and I believe he is headed back to Tanzania. Anyway, this guy, Fr. Dan, was a "priest in disguise." He was talking to the lady running the register, and the owner came over and started talking to him as if I was wife. I responded, "That would be scandalous!" He then informed the owner that he was a priest, and yes, that would be scandalous. I got a good chuckle out of it.<br />
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Fr. Dan got to talking to the owner and I about how long he's been a priest and about his family and that he was stocking up on items to take with him to Afghanistan next week. He is a Catholic Army Chaplain! God bless him! Anyway I wanted to give him one of my rosaries to take wit him, but I shamefully didn't have one with me. I'm in the process of creating one with twine instead of wire, with Army colors. I'm hoping to get it done this weekend, and hopefully I can somehow track him down (I am a stalker and found him on Facebook) and give it to him before he deploys.<br />
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So, if you could keep Fr. Dan Goulet (goo-LAY) in your prayers for the next year while he is in Afghanistan, that would be great! Thank you muchly!<br />
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<br />Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-56008962523097321152014-03-12T15:52:00.003-07:002014-03-12T15:53:13.975-07:00Spotlight on Pocket RosariesI had never thought to make a one-decade pocket rosary until I was approached to make a lot of more than 25 for a group of First Holy Communion children. They are quick and easy to make and fit in the little hands perfectly, as well as your pocket, without bulking it up. Here are a few images of the ones I have for sale over in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/allisonkinyon?section_id=15152823&ref=shopsection_leftnav_5">Etsy shop</a>.<br />
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Matte Cobalt and Matte Emerald<br />
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Amazonite and Mottled Green Turquoise</div>
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Amethyst Quartz</div>
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Most of these are ready to ship, but others are made to order, while I await the arrival of supplies. They are all $7, which is a fantastic price for these! Go take a look and purchase one for your little one or for yourself! Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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P.S. Use coupon code LENTEN10 at checkout to receive 10% off!</div>
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-66916480876590504232014-03-09T14:22:00.000-07:002014-03-09T14:22:10.182-07:00'Son of God' Movie Date NightChris and I were able to ditch the kids ;) last night for a date night. They were in good hands with my parents, and apparently Nora was an 'angel,' or so says my dad.<br />
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We had a gift card to Red Robin (yummm) so decided to dine there. We then headed across the street to Toys 'R' Us, just to browse, but ended up purchasing 'Alice in Wonderland' on DVD because it was massively on sale! We eventually want to have all the Disney classics (we now have this one and Cinderella) so the girls can grow up watching them. It'll be a slow process...<br />
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After that, we headed to the theatre and watched 'Son of God.' It. Was. Amazing. So well done. The cast was great and I thought it was pretty true to the Bible. Not sure, but I THINK it was some sort of continuation of 'The Bible' mini-series that aired on The History Channel. We didn't see that, but want to go back and watch it. Yes, I cried at times, but probably would have bawled my eyes out had I been at home instead of in public! I knew what was going to happen, obviously, but still...tears.<br />
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After the tears, we headed over to Cold Stone. We had another gift card to use so we decided, what's another few calories? ;) Great date night all around!<br />
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Here's the trailer from the official <a href="http://sharesonofgod.com/TheFilm">'Son of God' website</a>:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/oxj5jYkF09I" width="560"></iframe>Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-89013947467479132942014-03-05T08:00:00.000-08:002014-03-05T08:00:03.851-08:00The Sorrowful Mysteries For LentAs you all know, the rosary is near and dear to my heart. I believe it is a wonderful weapon and such a beautiful way to pray. For a nice, convenient place for all the prayers of the rosary during the Lenten season, I have decided to blog them here. I hope you take the time to pray the rosary every day during Lent as I plan on doing. God bless you all!<br />
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I find it helpful, while praying in the car, to listen to a podcast of the rosary. My favorite is Christian Peschken's <a href="http://www.christianpeschken.com/TheSoundOfTheRosary/" target="_blank">The Sound of the Rosary</a>. He goes at a nice pace while I pray with the girls, and he has a German accent!<br />
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<b>Okay, time to begin!</b><br />
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-In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.<br />
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-I believe in God the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ his only Son Our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; He descended into hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from there He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.<br />
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-Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.<br />
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-Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen (x3)<br />
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-Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.<br />
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<b>The First Sorrowful Mystery: The Agony in the Garden</b> <i>(I desire true repentance for my sins.)</i><br />
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(From <a href="http://howtopraytherosary.net/">HowToPrayTheRosary.net</a>)</div>
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<i>"Then they came to a place named Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." He took with him Peter, James, and John, and began to be troubled and distressed. Then he said to them, "My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch." He advanced a little and fell to the ground and prayed that if it were possible the hour might pass by him; he said, "Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Take this cup away from me, but not what I will but what you will." </i>Mark 14: 32-36</div>
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<b>The Second Sorrowful Mystery: The Scourging at the Pillar</b> <i>(I desire a spirit of mortification.)</i></div>
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(From <a href="http://howtopraytherosary.net/">HowToPrayTheRosary.net</a>)</div>
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<i>"As soon as morning came, the chief priests with the elders and the scribes, that is, the whole Sanhedrin, held a council. They bound Jesus, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate. Pilate questioned him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He said to him in reply, "You say so." The chief priests accused him of many things. Again Pilate questioned him, "Have you no answer? See how many things they accuse you of." Jesus gave him no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed.</i></div>
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<i>Now on the occasion of the feast he used to release to them one prisoner whom they requested. A man called Barabbas was then in prison along with the rebels who had committed murder in a rebellion. The crowd came forward and began to ask him to do for them as he was accustomed. Pilate answered, "Do you want me to release you to the king of the Jews?" For he knew that it was out of envy that the chief priests had handed him over. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas for them instead. Pilate again said to them in reply, "Then what [do you want] me to do with [the man you call] the king of the Jews?" They shouted again, "Crucify him." Pilate said to them, "Why? What evil has he done?" They only shouted the louder, "Crucify him." So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas to them and, after he had Jesus scourged, handed him over to be crucified." </i>Mark 15:1-15</div>
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-Our Father...</div>
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<b>The Third Sorrowful Mystery: The Crowning With Thorns</b> <i>(I desire moral courage.)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpeau3w8yXovU6Hbbk14kEXO4HqfRuQnf-Wq2YceOe_RZpkmexMpT45PvzOL29rSWOImQ9OjSy4Kg3Csqng8rAgr5CWfkM_L8VyYMPlzN5U-5yOF35NDYz62OSLF8uxZlWouqd10zuLE/s1600/3rd_Sorrowful_Mystery_s3s_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpeau3w8yXovU6Hbbk14kEXO4HqfRuQnf-Wq2YceOe_RZpkmexMpT45PvzOL29rSWOImQ9OjSy4Kg3Csqng8rAgr5CWfkM_L8VyYMPlzN5U-5yOF35NDYz62OSLF8uxZlWouqd10zuLE/s1600/3rd_Sorrowful_Mystery_s3s_2.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a></div>
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(From <a href="http://howtopraytherosary.net/">HowToPrayTheRosary.net</a>)</div>
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<i>"The soldiers let him away inside the palace, that is, the praetorium, and assembled the whole cohort. They clothed him in purple and, weaving a crown of thorns, placed it on him. They began to salute him with, "Hail, King of the Jews!" and kept striking his head with a reed and spitting upon him. They knelt before him in homage." </i>Mark 15:16-19</div>
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<b>The Fourth Sorrowful Mystery: Carrying of the Cross</b> <i>(I desire the virtue of patience.)</i></div>
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(From <a href="http://howtopraytherosary.net/">HowToPrayTheRosary.net</a>)</div>
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<i>"Then he handed him over to them to be crucified.</i></div>
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<i>So they took Jesus, and carrying the cross himself he went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, in Hebrew, Golgotha." </i>John 19:16-17</div>
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<b>The Fifth Sorrowful Mystery: The Crucifixion</b> <i>(I desire the grace of final perseverance.)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHspv6kDMv94wwabPmzb3UW772tWXo6cnz6CoeoyGTAM3B712D3XDE_5_A7bfkLmMjwOFAr3f0StjLnPFTRUttCcvM77ZWSTGvtkKOE_t6cFBYmuzduuUbd8AxTDNF9juAXHDryxFMDaQ/s1600/5th_Sorrowful_Mystery_s5s_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHspv6kDMv94wwabPmzb3UW772tWXo6cnz6CoeoyGTAM3B712D3XDE_5_A7bfkLmMjwOFAr3f0StjLnPFTRUttCcvM77ZWSTGvtkKOE_t6cFBYmuzduuUbd8AxTDNF9juAXHDryxFMDaQ/s1600/5th_Sorrowful_Mystery_s5s_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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(From <a href="http://howtopraytherosary.net/">HowToPrayTheRosary.net</a>)</div>
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<i>"When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him and the criminals there, one on his right, the other on his left. [Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, they know not what they do."] They divided his garments by casting lots. The people stood by and watched; the rulers, meanwhile, sneered at him and said, "He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Messiah of God." Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine they called out, "If you are King of the Jews, save yourself." Above him there was an inscription that read, "This is the King of the Jews." Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us." The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, "Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied to him, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about noon and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon because of an eclipse of the sun. Then the veil of the temple was torn down the middle. Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit"; and when he had said this he breathed his last." </i>Luke 23:33-46</div>
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-Hail! Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us; and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement! O loving! O sweet Virgin Mary!</div>
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Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.</div>
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-O God, Whose only begotten Son, by His Life, Death, and Resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life; grant, we beseech Thee, that meditating upon these Mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.</div>
Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-2553865682341465952014-03-04T08:00:00.000-08:002014-03-04T08:00:10.394-08:00Lenten Rosary Giveaway! Contest Begins TomorrowHappy Fat Tuesday! Are you planning on stuffing yourself today like I am?! We will be having lavish meals all day long ;)<br />
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Okay, I gave away a rosary during the Advent season, and I'd like to give away another one during the Lenten season! This Easter will mark my one-year anniversary since joining the Church with my husband and our daughters! I plan on finishing up my conversion story and posting it sometime during Lent. For now, here are a few photos from last year, and at the bottom is the Rafflecopter thingy for the giveaway.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2utvKNwet9-QCgivaR5vIvuccAd2fWeo6Zql_tEuWx5HevD-0pynRrpY784nEOCoX2h5flDL4wRkZBQnFbOtcmmBJZm6Z2gvo5n6LaXvnBadjE3iokPXfhxQDUQ2kYiDJCtWbrr0g5M/s1600/17732_10200998602193109_974790272_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2utvKNwet9-QCgivaR5vIvuccAd2fWeo6Zql_tEuWx5HevD-0pynRrpY784nEOCoX2h5flDL4wRkZBQnFbOtcmmBJZm6Z2gvo5n6LaXvnBadjE3iokPXfhxQDUQ2kYiDJCtWbrr0g5M/s1600/17732_10200998602193109_974790272_n.jpg" height="227" width="320" /></a></div>
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Before the Easter Vigil began</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1kRfr01jRcMVcsKUVFbVyp9wp4Ind7s_H1olgMgudSJ0py1PLgtn4Btfw3h7hIlgL_09HNKaOPrLOvgUPKDFIV2timshkzUixidfngwaUo9KuEfTTSTVYe_pLHWFIJuWuA94C1hmUqI/s1600/562644_10200998604513167_222430352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1kRfr01jRcMVcsKUVFbVyp9wp4Ind7s_H1olgMgudSJ0py1PLgtn4Btfw3h7hIlgL_09HNKaOPrLOvgUPKDFIV2timshkzUixidfngwaUo9KuEfTTSTVYe_pLHWFIJuWuA94C1hmUqI/s1600/562644_10200998604513167_222430352_n.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
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Chris and I were both Confirmed, and our girls were baptized</div>
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Hannah getting baptized</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXtsZRbGVZymcz3K87G-lNaRctwYqpMqK9rM_KgQHZceeb0891lNdB1Bfp-DY41WdArP36CPO97uNFxrybJYUIw8q0LK4Y69UDkhAIiAIGJE0ZaGtnfOgiHc6qpnTXSjhUEg0kma0axrE/s1600/538884_10200998605633195_1011608899_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXtsZRbGVZymcz3K87G-lNaRctwYqpMqK9rM_KgQHZceeb0891lNdB1Bfp-DY41WdArP36CPO97uNFxrybJYUIw8q0LK4Y69UDkhAIiAIGJE0ZaGtnfOgiHc6qpnTXSjhUEg0kma0axrE/s1600/538884_10200998605633195_1011608899_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nora getting baptized</div>
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(All photos courtesy of my dad.)</div>
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<b>NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY!!</b></div>
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I have designed this gorgeous amethyst opal and grey Czech glass rosary with a Sacred Heart of Jesus center and papal crucifix:</div>
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Tomorrow the contest will begin! This is my first time using Rafflecopter, so I hope I don't screw it up ;) The winner will be generated on Friday, April 11 (my birthday!) and hopefully that will give me enough time to get it in the mail to the winner in time for Easter! Good luck!<br />
<br />
<i>"Filled with the holy Spirit, Jesus returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the desert for forty days, to be tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and when they were over he was hungry. The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone.'" Then he took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a single instant. The devil said to him, "I shall give you all this power and their glory; for it has been handed over to me, and I may give it to whomever I wish. All this will be yours, if you worship me." Jesus said to him in reply, "It is written:</i><br />
<i>'You shall worship the Lord, your God, and him alone shall you serve.'"</i><br />
<i>Then he led him to Jerusalem, made him stand on the parapet of the temple, and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written:</i><br />
<i>'He wil command his angels concerning you, to guard you,'</i><br />
<i>and:</i><br />
<i>'With their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone.'"</i><br />
<i>Jesus said to him in reply, "It also says, 'You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test.'" When the devil had finished every temptation, he departed from him for a time."</i><br />
--Luke 4:1-13<br />
<br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/a6f9f91/" id="rc-a6f9f91" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script></div>
Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-80640621042297365202014-02-27T15:00:00.000-08:002014-02-27T15:00:00.192-08:00Meatless Lenten Meal PlanIn our house, we observe meatless Friday all throughout the year, so it's not hard for us to do during Lent. I mean, it's hard, because we love meat, but it doesn't take any extra effort during this season. I thought I'd share with you some of our favorite meatless meals. During Lent, there are 7 meatless days, so I have provided 7 meals.<br />
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<h3>
<b>Clam Chowder + French Bread</b></h3>
I had some homemade clam chowder at a friend's house and she forgot to send me the recipe before I found my own over at <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/My-Best-Clam-Chowder/Detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Thumb&e11=clam%20chowder&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page&soid=sr_results_p1i1">All Recipes</a>.<br />
<br />
3 (6.5oz) cans minced clams<br />
1c minced onion<br />
1c diced celery<br />
2c cubed potatoes (I like them to be 1/2" or so)<br />
1c diced carrots<br />
3/4c butter<br />
3/4c flour<br />
1qt half & half<br />
2T red wine vinegar<br />
1 1/2t salt<br />
1/2 loaf Safeway French bread<br />
<br />
Place the onion, celery, carrots, and potatoes in a large skillet and drain the clam juice into it. Add water to cover the vegetables and cook over medium-ish heat until they are niiiiice and tender. While those are a'cookin', melt the butter in a large saucepan (stock pot!) over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until it's smooth, then whisk in the cream and constantly stir until it's nice and thick and smooth. Then pour in your skillet ingredients and heat it all the way through, careful not to boil. Throw in your minced clams just before serving, or they will get tough. Who likes tough clams? Heat until the clams are warm, then put in your vinegar, and season with salt and pepper if desired. We often will serve this in French bread bowls, but other times we'll just eat it with French bread and dip! So yum!<br />
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(My Instagram photo)</div>
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<h3>
<b>Cheesy Vegetable Chowder + French Bread</b></h3>
I found this recipe on Pinterest last year just in time for Lent and it has got to be our favorite meatless meal! It comes from <a href="http://luluthebaker.blogspot.com/2011/09/cheesy-vegetable-chowder.html">Lulu the Baker</a>'s blog.<br />
<br />
2T butter<br />
1/2c chopped onion<br />
1c finely chopped carrot<br />
1 celery stick, finely chopped (I use 3-4 sticks)<br />
1T minced garlic (a couple cloves will do)<br />
4c chicken broth -- <b>This is where it gets meatless-tricky, so I use vegetable stock instead!</b><br />
2 lg baking potatoes, peeled & chopped into little cubes<br />
1T flour<br />
1/2c water<br />
2/3c milk<br />
2c chopped broccoli (I use fresh, not frozen, and it's usually more than 2c!)<br />
2c-ish shredded cheddar cheese (we like cheese, so we use a lot!)<br />
<br />
-Melt zee buttah in a large soup pot. Add zee onion, carrot, and celery, and saute over medium-high heat until zee vegetables are tender. Add zee garlic and cook 2ish more minutes. Add zee vegetable broth and zee potatoes, bring to a boil, and cook until zee potatoes are tender. Mix zee flour with zee water, add to zee pot, and simmer until zee soup is slightly thickened. Add zee milk and zee broccoli and cook until zee soup is heated through. Stir in zee cheese and allow it to melt, then serve. (Sorry for all the 'zee's hehehe) We love love love Safeway's French bread, so we serve it with a lot of meals, as you can tell!<br />
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(My Instagram photo)</div>
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<h3>
<b>Broccoli Quinoa Casserole</b></h3>
I got this recipe from my friend <a href="http://homesweetcozyhome.blogspot.com/">Haley</a>. This recipe is so rich in protein and it's so so delicious! Sometimes I think I should 1.5 the recipe because I can eat a whole lot ;) The original recipe can be found over at <a href="http://eatingwelllivingthin.wordpress.com/2011/04/14/blast-from-the-past-with-a-new-twist/">Eating Well...Living Thin</a>'s blog.<br />
<br />
10oz can cream of broccoli soup<br />
1/3c mayonnaise (I usually don't use this much)<br />
2T milk<br />
1 1/4c shredded cheese (or more, if you like cheese like I do!)<br />
1/2t sugar<br />
1/4t black pepper<br />
2c cooked broccoli (I use frozen because sometimes it's just easier)<br />
1 1/2c cooked quinoa.<br />
freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for topping<br />
<br />
Preparation of quinoa:<br />
Combine 3/4c dry quinoa (rinsed, if it isn't already), 1 1/2c water and 1/4t salt in a small-ish pot. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low once it's boiling, cover it, and cook it 18-20 minutes, or until fluffy.<br />
<br />
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees! (The oven is always ready before I am, go figure.)<br />
Coat an 8x8 baking or casserole dish with a non-stick substance, like a spray. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, soup, milk, cheese, sugar, and pepper. Stir in your cooked quinoa and cooked broccoli. Make sure it's nice and combined so the cheese is allllllll incorporated...yum! Transfer the goodness to your prepared dish and sprinkle it with your Parmesan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until it's bubbly and golden around the edges. Enjoy!<br />
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(My Instagram photo)</div>
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<h3>
<b>Mom's Chili + Cornbread</b></h3>
This is my mom's kind of 'wing-it' chili recipe.<br />
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1 (16oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed<br />
1 (16oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed<br />
1 (16oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed<br />
1 (16oz) can corn, drained<br />
1 (16oz) can diced tomatoes (I like petite diced, that way the chunks aren't too large)<br />
1 (16oz) can water<br />
1-2T homemade chili seasoning *<br />
1pkg Marie Callender's cornbread mix<br />
<br />
<b>--</b><br />
*Homemade Chili Seasoning<br />
<br />
1T chili powder<br />
1/4t onion powder<br />
1/4t oregano<br />
1 1/4t cumin<br />
1/4t garlic powder<br />
1/4t crushed red pepper<br />
1/4t paprika<br />
1t salt<br />
1t pepper<br />
<br />
Combine ingredients and store in an air-tight container.<br />
<b>--</b><br />
<br />
Throw all this in the crock pot, set on low for 8 hours, and run away. Once the 8 hours is up, come back to the glorious smell of chili in house! Make the cornbread according to the package and enjoy!<br />
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<i>During non-Friday meals, I like to add a chicken breast or two!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
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(My Instagram photo...disregard the chicken!)</div>
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<h3>
Copycat Olive Garden Night In (Fettuccine Alfredo, Garlic Breadsticks, and Minestrone Soup)</h3>
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I got the recipe for the Alfredo sauce on <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Alfredo-Sauce-2/Detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Thumb&e11=alfredo%20sauce&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&soid=sr_results_p1i1">All Recipes</a> once again.</div>
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<div>
1/4c butter</div>
<div>
1c heavy cream</div>
<div>
1 clove garlic, crushed</div>
<div>
1 1/2c grated Parmesan cheese</div>
<div>
1/2c chopped parsley, if you so choose (I don't choose)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Melt the butter in a medium-ish pot over medium-low-ish heat. Add the cream and simmer for about 5ish minutes, then add the garlic and the cheese, and whisk quickly, making sure to heat throughout. Pour over your cooked fettuccine noodles. Noms!</div>
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<div>
For the breadsticks, I usually buy the Seattle Baking Company pre-made ones. I brush melted butter on them and sprinkle with garlic powder/salt (whatever you call it) and bake according to the package.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
The minestrone soup recipe came from <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/robin-miller/minestrone-soup-with-pasta-beans-and-vegetables-recipe.html">Food Network</a>. It's a slow cooker recipe, so it's automatically my friend!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
3c (Are you kidding me? Just put in all 4 cups from the box!) vegetable stock</div>
<div>
1 (28oz) can diced tomatoes</div>
<div>
1 (15oz) can white beans, drained</div>
<div>
2 carrots, peeled and chopped</div>
<div>
1 celery stick, chopped</div>
<div>
1c onion, chopped</div>
<div>
1t dried thyme</div>
<div>
1/2t dried sage</div>
<div>
2 bay leaves</div>
<div>
1 medium zucchini, chopped</div>
<div>
2c coarsely chopped fresh or frozen spinach (you could also use kale!)</div>
<div>
4T grated Parmesan (I almost always forget this, but it's just for topping anyway)</div>
<div>
2c cooked ditalini pasta (say what?!) I use elbows</div>
<div>
salt & pepper to taste</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In your slow cooker, combine the broth, tomatoes, beads, carrots, celery, onion, thyme, sage, bay leaves, and 1/2t each of salt and pepper. Slap on the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours (my usual) or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before the soup is finished cooking, add the pasta, zucchini, and the spinach. Cook the remaining 30 minutes, then remove the bay leaves and serve.</div>
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(My Instagram photo, minus the minestrone)</div>
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<h3>
Mia Rogers' Pumpkin Apple Pancakes</h3>
<div>
I snatched up this recipe from <a href="http://abc.go.com/shows/the-chew/recipes/Pumpkin-Apple-Pancakes-Mia-Rogers">ABC's The Chew</a> back in my heavy television-watching days. These pancakes are a family staple, especially during Autumn!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1c flour</div>
<div>
1/4c brown sugar</div>
<div>
1 1/2t baking powder</div>
<div>
1/4t salt</div>
<div>
1/2t cinnamon</div>
<div>
1/4t nutmeg</div>
<div>
1/8t ginger</div>
<div>
1 egg, lightly beaten</div>
<div>
1T butter, melted</div>
<div>
1c buttermilk</div>
<div>
1/2c pumpkin puree (My favorite it Libby's)</div>
<div>
1/3c peeled, diced apple</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For the caramelized apple topping (I usually double this recipe because it's soooo good!):</div>
<div>
1 apple, thinly sliced</div>
<div>
1T butter</div>
<div>
2T brown sugar</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In a medium-ish bowl, mix together (sifter? Don't have one!): flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices. In a smaller bowl, combine the egg, the melted butter, the diced apples, the pumpkin puree, and the buttermilk. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and let that sit for about 5 minutes. While this is happening, make your caramelized apple topping, by melting ye ol' butter in a skillet, adding the brown sugar and apples, and cooking (stirring) until the apples are soft and slightly golden. It says it takes about 8 minutes, but I've never timed it.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Scoop up about 1/3c of your pancake batter and pour it onto a hot griddle. Turn, as usual, when they start to bubble. When they're all finished, plate 'em, top 'em, and enjoy 'em!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<i>P.S. Sometimes I like to add maple syrup and even more brown sugar on top!</i></div>
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(My Instagram photo)</div>
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<h3>
Easy Ziti</h3>
</div>
<div>
I got this recipe from my friend <a href="http://domesticvocation.wordpress.com/">Christine</a>, when I was looking to spice up my meal plan. Sometimes the same meals over and over and over get old!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
16oz jar spaghetti sauce</div>
<div>
1/2c ricotta cheese</div>
<div>
1lb box ziti</div>
<div>
1/2c shredded cheese blend</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Preheat your broiler! In a large-ish bowl, mix your spaghetti sauce and ricotta thoroughly, so it's nice and smooth. Cook your ziti! Drain and stir it into your sauce/cheese mix. Pour into a 9"x13" baking dish and sprinkle with the cheese blend. Broil until the cheese is melted. Seriously easy!</div>
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(I'm lacking a photo of this meal, so here's Nora eating a cupcake on her first birthday!)</div>
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If you can't tell, I'm a huge fan of food. I love to cook for my family and always try new recipes. What are your favorite Lenten Friday meals?</div>
Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-37991688313110618722014-02-27T10:07:00.001-08:002014-02-27T10:07:02.376-08:00Joy Comes in the Morning? A Story About PoopYes, it does! Despite what I am about to tell you, there has been much joy this morning. It's not that I went to bed weeping or anything, just stressed out and tensed up.<br />
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Nora is known for crying when she wakes up. Hannah, as I remember, has always been happy in the morning, except when we wake her up to go to Mass on Sunday mornings. I took my time getting out of bed this morning to get to the crying Nora. When I got to her crib, I saw what I thought was more puke. *hangs head* "I thought this was over?" I said. Then I looked to Nora to grab her and noticed it wasn't puke. No, it was poop. All over her back. Her shirt. Her pants. Her blanket. Oh dear!<br />
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I scooped her up out of her crib and started to disrobe her and she wasn't happy. There ended up being poop all up her back and on her arms. She wanted to sit down, but thankfully I got her to remain standing until I could clean up her back with wipes. (Note: when a mom has to use more than 2 wipes, it's bad...I used about 10 wipes!) I drew up the bath and she splashed around for a little bit then I cleaned her up and got her dressed. Man was that gross!<br />
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As I was rinsing the clothes and blanket off in the tub, I realized that I forgot to remove the bath toys from the tub. Yeah...<br />
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(Bath toys, bathing in the kitchen sink)</div>
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The joyful part of this story? I wasn't once upset and I didn't lose my temper! All I could do was laugh, which is good, because I haven't been able to do a lot of that as of late. Even though I failed in my attempt at the Our Lady Undoer of Knots novena, AND have fallen behind yet again in my online Bible study, I am still feeling particularly close to Our Lord, through praying the rosary and reading random Scripture. I've also had fantastic friends praying for me during these trying times.</div>
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(My much needed coffee in my favorite mug: SBC Level 4 Medium-Dark Rich blend, Organic Fair Trade...because it was the same price as the other stuff. And my French press, because I still don't have coffee filters, but it's better anyway, so who cares!)</div>
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Hoping to continue the joyful trend today and maybe read a few Psalms, including my favorite:<br />
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<b>Psalm 30</b><br />
<i>A psalm. A song for the dedication of the Temple. Of David.</i><br />
<i>I</i><br />
<i>"I praise you, Lord, for you raised me up</i><br />
<i>and did not let my enemies rejoice over me.</i><br />
<i>O Lord, my God,</i><br />
<i>I cried out to you for help and you healed me.</i><br />
<i>Lord, you brought my soul up from Sheol;</i><br />
<i>you let me live, from going down to the pit.</i><br />
<i>II</i><br />
<i>Sing praise to the Lord, you faithful,</i><br />
<i>give thanks to his holy memory.</i><br />
<i>For his anger lasts but a moment;</i><br />
<i>his favor a lifetime.</i><br />
<i>At dusk weeping comes for the night;</i><br />
<i>but at dawn there is rejoicing.</i><br />
<i>III</i><br />
<i>Complacent, I once said,</i><br />
<i>"I shall never be shaken."<br />Lord, you showed me favor,</i><br />
<i>established for me mountains of virtue.</i><br />
<i>But when you hid your face</i><br />
<i>I was struck with terror.</i><br />
<i>To you, Lord, I cried out;</i><br />
<i>with the Lord I pleaded for mercy:<br />"What gain is there from my lifeblood,</i><br />
<i>from my going down to the grave?</i><br />
<i>Does dust give you thanks</i><br />
<i>or declare your faithfulness?<br />Hear, O Lord, have mercy on me;</i><br />
<i>Lord, be my helper."<br />IV</i><br />
<i>You changed my mourning into dancing;</i><br />
<i>you took off my sackcloth</i><br />
<i>and clothed me with gladness.</i><br />
<i>So that my glory may praise you</i><br />
<i>and not be silent.</i><br />
<i>O Lord, my God,</i><br />
<i>forever will I give you thanks."</i><br />
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And as I finish this post, Nora has puked twice. Have a good day, everyone!<br />
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Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5090494224123851181.post-29432899413438406342014-02-24T14:48:00.001-08:002014-02-24T22:43:56.048-08:00Sick Toddler Day and a New NovenaYesterday was SO good to be back at our home parish! We had been at other parishes for a few weeks but we were finally able to attend Mass at our parish...seriously felt so good!<br />
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Hannah, my three-year-old, started vomiting in the afternoon, and it didn't let up. It's one of the grossest things to clean up, in my opinion. She went through several outfits and we've done a few loads of laundry, including the coveted electric blanket (which is now not working!!!) and are still trying to catch up. She puked a few times in her bed, warranting more laundry of the sheet variety. I think the final load is in the dryer. Our poor girl. It's painful when you can't really do anything for them. She seems better today (Mom and Dad are dragging from lack of sleep) but still hasn't eaten much. If you could offer up some prayers for her so she will fully recover, that'd be so wonderful! <3<br />
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A few of my friends (<a href="http://lifeofacatholiclibrarian.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tiffany</a>, <a href="http://fillingmyprayercloset.com/" target="_blank">Cristina</a>, and <a href="http://catholicnerdwriter.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Emmy</a>) are doing a <a href="http://www.theholyrosary.org/maryundoerknots" target="_blank">novena to Our Lady Undoer of Knots</a> starting today, and ending on Fat Tuesday! It's been a while (December!) since I've done a novena, so I decided I needed to join them. I will be focusing my intentions on those climbing platelets, and for emotional healing from my miscarriage. How can I pray for you? Leave me a comment if you'd like me to pray for you for something specific. I'll be praying on my favorite 'Autumn Rosary' that I made after my hospitalization last year. :) I know Tiffany also has one of these ;) as does my friend Teresa! Such beautiful colors for Autumn!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QyfRaG4SDrgw_HZ29_MW1tGUXBDtB3I-45TM-s-FV-jwDltoUymoZEz34A8TI_OlUXvW0InSBRT-2SHc1_bKNTpNxtBZl8AJi2kLULGrAAo_ggJ2t7Zcd7vWJ5Q-qURPuSdVx6wIHQY/s640/blogger-image--468022217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QyfRaG4SDrgw_HZ29_MW1tGUXBDtB3I-45TM-s-FV-jwDltoUymoZEz34A8TI_OlUXvW0InSBRT-2SHc1_bKNTpNxtBZl8AJi2kLULGrAAo_ggJ2t7Zcd7vWJ5Q-qURPuSdVx6wIHQY/s640/blogger-image--468022217.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've got a similar one (in gold) for sale <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/163732931/rosary-in-autumn-colors-with-gold-plated?ref=shop_home_active_14" target="_blank">here</a> in my Etsy shop!</div>
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Well, since Hannah is feeling better, she would like me to paint her toenails! Such a girly girl ;)<br />
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Until next time...<br />
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<i>"This then is the commandment, the statutes and the ordinances, which the Lord, your God, has commanded that you be taught to observe in the land you are about to cross into to possess, so that you, that is, you, your child, and your grandchild, may fear the Lord, your God, by keeping, as long as you live, all his statutes and commandments which I enjoin on you, and thus have long life. Hear then, Israel, and be careful to observe them, that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly; for the Lord, the God of your ancestors, promised you a land flowing with milk and honey. Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone! Therefore you shall love the Lord, your God, with your whole heart, and with your whole being, and with your whole strength. Take to heart these words which I command you today. Keep repeating them to your children. Recite them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you get up. Bind them on your arm as a sign and let them be as a pendant on your forehead. Write them on your doorposts of your houses and on your gates." </i>Deuteronomy 6:1-9Allison Kinyonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08847422777908659347noreply@blogger.com1