tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7324127367381466692024-02-07T19:57:02.180-05:00NWMichiganMommiesThe Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-72392800697269222622013-08-26T11:18:00.000-04:002013-08-26T11:18:04.270-04:00Invitation to free new website that helps moms better manage their kids’ group activities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqvZAqwF_zEWngYp7_7hqUmMU73T-xQC0F_xQr_I-R3aV_Tp7otbgh_Vwuc6jctM7a1XT_-6lcWDbdqUoCYb26T9QZLM4cZ-1INJrYqbHdZjDJw7Btaz3jNBpSqDtuaC214ZH6GXXkLUk/s1600/tag_line%5B1%5D.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="98" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqvZAqwF_zEWngYp7_7hqUmMU73T-xQC0F_xQr_I-R3aV_Tp7otbgh_Vwuc6jctM7a1XT_-6lcWDbdqUoCYb26T9QZLM4cZ-1INJrYqbHdZjDJw7Btaz3jNBpSqDtuaC214ZH6GXXkLUk/s400/tag_line%5B1%5D.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hello Mommies,</div>
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I am a fellow member of the Mommies Network and the creator of a new website called </div>
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<b>Podanize</b>, which helps moms, dads and group leaders better organize their kids'</div>
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group activities (e.g. soccer, scouts, school classes, etc.)</div>
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Kids today are overscheduled, and keeping up is a challenge: </div>
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• What day did I volunteer at school to go read with the kids? </div>
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• Who is driving to the scout meeting? </div>
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• When am I signed up to bring the team's snacks? </div>
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These are just a few of the many little details that busy parents have to keep straight. </div>
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Try as we might, something inevitably falls through the cracks. We all need a little help </div>
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to stay organized. </div>
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I’d like to invite you to join our brand new website. To join, just go to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1952879817">http://</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.podanize.com/">www.podanize.com</a> and click Get Started to create a "Pod" for any real-world group, or </div>
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even just your family for now. You can create a Pod if you’re a group leader or a group </div>
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member. It’s quick, easy and free. Then "get your Pod going" by adding discussions </div>
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or events, and inviting others to join your Pod. <b>Podanize</b> can also be accessed via a </div>
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mobile browser, and our mobile app will be available in late 2013. </div>
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Our mission at <b>Podanize</b> is to help ease the stress that comes with keeping our </div>
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kids active and involved. To this end, we welcome any feedback you have. Podanize </div>
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is for you and is built to get better over time by adding your suggestions – I’d love </div>
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to hear from you. Also, if you know of other moms (or dads) who might benefit from </div>
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<b>Podanize</b>, please share this with them.</div>
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<b>Podanize</b> is ideal for all extra-curricular activities: soccer, little league, playgroups, scout </div>
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troops, swim teams, theater groups, school classes, PTA, etc. The list is endless and </div>
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includes anything with a need for ongoing communication and coordination.</div>
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Again, just go to <a href="http://www.podanize.com/">http://www.podanize.com</a> to get started.</div>
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Best,</div>
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Nikki Sacks</div>
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Co-Founder of Podanize</div>
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<a href="mailto:nikki@podanize.com">nikki@podanize.com</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi1ML-wg61LPNYpyoMOTSyHsbVKE-qWYsiJ_J-RHcPp_uUp23H1_oySjoGKIRBPqZYmcRXz2yVR1fOkAtVAiOczMF4nFvId1XWqKxyirJboISdhxQFoapYSrv9WKNUr5mdBq-lRMQCG3F/s1600/Podanize%5B1%5D.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi1ML-wg61LPNYpyoMOTSyHsbVKE-qWYsiJ_J-RHcPp_uUp23H1_oySjoGKIRBPqZYmcRXz2yVR1fOkAtVAiOczMF4nFvId1XWqKxyirJboISdhxQFoapYSrv9WKNUr5mdBq-lRMQCG3F/s400/Podanize%5B1%5D.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-84084053679439227842012-11-15T22:00:00.000-05:002012-11-15T22:00:01.446-05:00Making a list, Checking it twiceDon't get caught on the Naughty List because you forgot to order customized <a href="http://themommiesnetwork.org/santa/">Santa Letters</a> for all your favorite kids!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibE7pGKq8Sodn3-xlw8mkcKJJ6Vm5_4uitLiveC1sy5jf-1OTbaX0l1JmhGlcoii9EJml0nBfn_gYV_DV6dSlFoFKyzWcubMEiPaYQfrdczqqwpM97bY5JYgl_lJ6GDJ8TTW1diD2BiiY/s1600/letterimage.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="249" width="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibE7pGKq8Sodn3-xlw8mkcKJJ6Vm5_4uitLiveC1sy5jf-1OTbaX0l1JmhGlcoii9EJml0nBfn_gYV_DV6dSlFoFKyzWcubMEiPaYQfrdczqqwpM97bY5JYgl_lJ6GDJ8TTW1diD2BiiY/s320/letterimage.gif" /></a></div>
For just $6 for the first letter and 10% off for each thereafter with the discount code SANTA, you can send the magic of Christmas to any child. A unique letter that you personalize will arrive from North Pole Station in Alaska in time for Christmas. Choose from a variety of themes including The Reason for the Season and School Days templates. Each one is special - just like the children.<br />
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Act now before Santa gets too busy making toys and packing his sleigh! Ordering is open through Tuesday, November 20.<br />
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Proceeds benefit The Mommies Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a safe, secure, FREE place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, mothers and community leaders.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-73074527998685115542012-11-14T02:19:00.001-05:002012-11-14T02:19:11.029-05:00You better watch out; You better not crySanta Claus letters are coming to town!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYN_ZgvZT6UoPPFUQpuWDYFxJN8CFGZ_vvaqRhpTWj6S4_pjU-i1tkL_1T44KNh3Li6dmQ67Ud_7XAWpFiAtgPSs76j3twZ8Hx-TuCchb5yuNCyQ61JqkV_NmnZ9M9z2EH-Jw2yh5Rnpk/s1600/letterimage.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="249" width="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYN_ZgvZT6UoPPFUQpuWDYFxJN8CFGZ_vvaqRhpTWj6S4_pjU-i1tkL_1T44KNh3Li6dmQ67Ud_7XAWpFiAtgPSs76j3twZ8Hx-TuCchb5yuNCyQ61JqkV_NmnZ9M9z2EH-Jw2yh5Rnpk/s320/letterimage.gif" /></a></div>
This year share the magic of the holidays with your favorite children by ordering personalized letters for each one. Each unique letter will be mailed from North Pole Station in Alaska in time for Christmas. For just $6 for the first letter and 10% off for each thereafter with the discount code SANTA, choose from one of our eight templates to customize the perfect letter for each child on your Nice List. Whether it be Baby's First Christmas or encouraging an older kid to Keep Believing, we've got the right message for Santa to send! And if you order more than one, use the discount code<br />
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Santa gets very busy this time of year, so place your order by Tuesday, November 20. All proceeds benefit The Mommies Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a safe, secure, FREE place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, mothers and community leaders.<br />
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Place your order today by clicking on our<a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa"> Santa Letter</a> campaign here, on our forums, or through our <span style="color: red;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/133646640117502/?fref=ts">facebook event</a></span> that you can share with all your friends and family.<br />
<br />The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-5291870594069373042012-10-03T08:30:00.000-04:002012-10-03T08:30:06.681-04:00Want to Help Make a Difference?span style="font-family: inherit;">More than 30,000 women have been touched by <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Mommies Network</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Our members have found friends when lonely, help when needy, answers when confused, comfort when grieving. All this is possible through 84 chapters nationwide that provide a safe and FREE place for moms to meet online and in real life.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7Ftqpkr_ja98s2cIXSBfCj4kW56Yct396eSZDNgW95Vqb-3Srw9gLUIjqDIxxKjpk5-7fOSgy2rQ0vum2sSxzlm9mu1OPjEwIo6wtzqy9yGOa95nGezVPnuLIejwJRL2BN1CgYIg2Jg/s1600/800px-Families05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7Ftqpkr_ja98s2cIXSBfCj4kW56Yct396eSZDNgW95Vqb-3Srw9gLUIjqDIxxKjpk5-7fOSgy2rQ0vum2sSxzlm9mu1OPjEwIo6wtzqy9yGOa95nGezVPnuLIejwJRL2BN1CgYIg2Jg/s400/800px-Families05.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Little things mean a lot to moms. That's why we are asking you to share your story and our </span><a href="http://bit.ly/U6D6B7" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">fundraising campaign</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to help us grow and improve. Every $10 donation helps us connect moms to the resources they need to change the world - one family, one neighborhood, one community at a time. Each social media share, on average, helps us get $18 closer to our goal. So, please, take a moment to give us a boost.</span><br />
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Thanks for helping us make a difference for mommies, families, and communities across the country. The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-23015932536104543952012-10-02T11:59:00.000-04:002012-10-02T11:59:25.863-04:00Help Us Help Moms!<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XBpaTowKsRQ" width="640"></iframe>These voices represent the tens of thousands who belong to our communities and many more who just haven’t found us yet. Help us continue to provide the valuable connections that makes every mom's life better. <br />
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<a href="http://www.razoo.com/story/Annual-Appeal-2012-1?referral_code=share"><img alt="Donate Now" border="0" height="200" src="http://www.razoo.com/assets/brands/1/donate_now_piggy.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>
The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-42003348753997015532012-09-27T14:27:00.001-04:002012-09-27T14:27:05.009-04:00TheMommiesNetwork Annual AppealMoms just like you are finding support, encouragement, and friendship every day on <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank">The Mommies Network</a>. What started with two new moms ten years ago has grown into a nationwide network of over 30,000 women! Where will we be in ten years?<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.razoo.com/story/Annual-Appeal-2012-1" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvHhCRqzTxYGBawCP4ItUutiOzeispXc8Kf1DfA5VSfGk-m7XTZkt4lehpkzRAG0cVYXrk85s7FXupTV1ofpX4plrY58Vvp8dT8BUVuciR0n2GjjbvGFX_TyAEH2CsgBUgJB1XvT8H0tII/s1600/FBEvent_zpse8305dfd.jpg" /></a></div>
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We are dedicated to providing valuable connections to all moms at no charge. In order to continue that, and to expand and improve our network, we rely on generous donations from the communities we reach. Please take a moment to view our <a href="http://www.razoo.com/story/Annual-Appeal-2012-1" target="_blank">fundraising campaign</a> and share it via social media or word-of-mouth. Just $10 keeps our network running for 80 minutes. That's enough time for a lonely mom to find a friend, a struggling mom to find support, a grieving mom to find a hug, and a searching mom to find answers.<br />
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Thank you for supporting the network that supports moms. We are excited about sharing the next ten years with you!The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-18643138207166308442012-05-28T07:30:00.000-04:002012-05-28T07:30:00.793-04:00Time is running out!!<div>
Time is running out to vote for your favorite non-profit, The Mommies Network, in Eleventy Marketing Group's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eleventygroup/app_289947384417182" target="_blank">Eleventy Group's 4Good contest</a> The winner will receive a free ONCORE marketing package to maximize fundraising- freeing up our volunteers to focus on our mission of providing a safe, secure, FREE place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empowering them to be better women, parents and community leaders. Fundraising not only provides technology upgrades to our expanding network, but it also goes to support all our Chapters and the "moms on the ground."</div>
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So join our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#%21/events/310674799010659/" target="_blank">facebook event</a> to vote and share. Get those votes in by 11:59 p.m. EST and help us spread our wings!</div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-74531138637598018542012-05-25T16:09:00.002-04:002012-05-25T16:09:36.409-04:00We're on our way!We're soaring high with your help!<br />
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The Mommies Network is in the running for a fundraising marketing package that will increase our development efforts. A free ONCORE package from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eleventygroup/app_289947384417182" target="_blank">Eleventy Group's 4Good contest</a> will benefit all our members by raising funds with less effort. More money means a better network for mommies across the nation.<br />
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Join our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#%21/events/310674799010659/" target="_blank">facebook event</a> to vote and share. A minute of your time is all it takes.<br />
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With gratitude,<br />
The Mommies NetworkThe Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-23959175722423060712012-05-21T10:47:00.001-04:002012-05-21T10:47:21.685-04:00The Mommies Network needs your help!The Mommies Network is a finalist non-profit in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eleventygroup/app_289947384417182" target="_blank"><span style="color: #91ac3e;">Eleventy Group's 4Good contest</span></a> With a simple click to vote and another to share, you can help boost TMN's fundraising power. Better fundraising means technology upgrades, an expanding network, and more time for our volunteers to focus on what they do best: make mom-to-mom connections everyday.<br /><br />Join our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/310674799010659/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #91ac3e;">facebook event</span></a> to spread the word that will help us spread our wings. Voting costs nothing but a minute of your time.<br /><br />From everyone at The Mommies Network, thanks for your support.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-60343904362502591992012-03-02T08:00:00.002-05:002012-03-02T08:00:12.343-05:00How Does Your Garden Grow?<a href="http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2387/flowerpowersmallgraphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2387/flowerpowersmallgraphic.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/">NWMichiganMommies'</a> fabulous Flower Power fundraiser is drawing to a close, so if you haven't placed your order yet, now is the time! It's never too early to plan to improve your curb appeal or beautify your backyard. From begonias to tiger lilies and everything in between, Flower Power is the place for quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money guarantee.<br />
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This fundraiser runs until March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms. Time is running out!<br />
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Save time, money, and gas by planning your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Spring over to <a href="http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240229/95fcmRpD2S5a">http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240229/95fcmRpD2S5a</a>, and check out the wide array of lovely lilies and pretty peonies, among other bulbs. As a bonus, if you spend $40 or more, Flower Power will send you a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value.<br />
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So what are you waiting for? Don't delay: Grow with us today!<br />
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<i>Profits made through our fundraising link go toward our chapter's operating expenses.</i>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-10359721358970602452012-02-28T17:16:00.002-05:002012-02-28T17:16:19.635-05:00Free Premium Membership Access for a Limited Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/4356/smallimaget.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/4356/smallimaget.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ever wonder what's so special about Premium Access to the National Forum? For a limited time The Mommies Network is offering FREE access to premium content like Debate This and Buy/Sell/Swap to all members.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">See what you've been missing by logging on to <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php">http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php</a> and get started today.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Free Premium Access is available to all current and new members of The Mommies Network National Forum. <b>It is available NOW through April 30th.</b></span>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-10412372110390352462012-02-15T00:00:00.000-05:002012-02-15T00:00:05.539-05:00Learn a New Language During Cultural Awareness Month!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" /></a></div><i>Bonjour! Ciao! Hola!</i> Have you been checking the <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php" target="_blank">National Chapter</a> and participating in Cultural Awareness Month? In our <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/viewforum.php?f=45" target="_blank">Multicultural Mommies forum</a>, we’re talking about foreign languages and discovering fun facts about different cultures. Join the celebration, and add some new words and phrases to your linguistic repertoire!<br />
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Do you have something to add to the conversation? Share your knowledge with other moms who are learning a language with their children. Go global with <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank">TMN</a> as we highlight the many languages and cultures that make our world wonderful!The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-52434113778843974922012-02-10T08:00:00.000-05:002012-02-10T08:00:09.008-05:00This Week With the Mommies<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2PZbaTFR8gngd2IgObZGczO1LvEX4ssvLb44cgWi6a3ZKwFc33daV_Ynt_R8ymOFyLf4GQdatlyImXd46KCnvOUwAv0b6GVec5UU8r-UnfhRxOCrW6QdDEbvcYMbcFiV8vQFbcFk07U/s1600/TWWTM.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/" target="_blank">NWMichiganMommies</a> provides what our members need, when and how they need it.<br />
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Click <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank">here</a> to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-7199916618977119992012-02-03T08:00:00.001-05:002012-02-03T08:00:13.150-05:00This Week With the Mommies<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2PZbaTFR8gngd2IgObZGczO1LvEX4ssvLb44cgWi6a3ZKwFc33daV_Ynt_R8ymOFyLf4GQdatlyImXd46KCnvOUwAv0b6GVec5UU8r-UnfhRxOCrW6QdDEbvcYMbcFiV8vQFbcFk07U/s1600/TWWTM.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/" target="_blank">NWMichiganMommies</a> provides what our members need, when and how they need it.<br />
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Click <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank">here</a> to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-50182942265318768492012-02-01T00:00:00.001-05:002012-02-01T11:42:23.743-05:00February Is Cultural Awareness Month!<a href="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" /></a><br />
February is Cultural Awareness Month at <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank">The Mommies Network</a>, and we're thinking globally! Share a love for foreign language and different cultures with your child in our <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/viewforum.php?f=45" target="_blank">Multicultural Mommies forum</a> on our <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/" target="_blank">National Chapter</a>. Each week, we'll feature several languages and cultural tidbits. You may also participate and strengthen your language lingo in a special webinar. Additionally, our sponsor will provide information on how you can continue your language-learning experience after the month is over.<br />
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According to Associated Content, brain research shows that children are at an optimal age for language learning. Although language study is effective at any age, some studies suggest that the human brain is more open to learning a foreign language from birth to preadolescence. Fortunately, researchers have not found an age in which the language window closes completely, especially in the areas of grammar and vocabulary.<br />
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Take advantage of this opportunity to think globally, and join us as we learn about foreign languages and different ways of life during Cultural Awareness Month at TMN!The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-17608587235716473062012-01-30T09:04:00.000-05:002012-01-31T09:05:15.964-05:00Menu Monday: Cherry Almond Cookies<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq781P3Gd2I/AAAAAAAAHBk/6riw2Et8nnw/s1600-h/DSC_7300+%28Large%29.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381516596475230050" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq781P3Gd2I/AAAAAAAAHBk/6riw2Et8nnw/s320/DSC_7300+%28Large%29.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 213px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>Someone posted a recipe for Honey Oatmeal cookies on a forum I belong to yesterday and I had to bake some up. The cookies are soft, chewy and the honey in the background gives the cookies another layer of flavor. When I saw the recipe I thought about what went well with honey and thought almonds. And almonds go well with cherries. So I added almond extract, dried cherries, almond extract and some white baking chips/almond bark. The result? YUM.<br />
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The girls ate them up. DH at first thought I put raisins in cookies, but then he said "<a href="http://pleasegivepeasachance.blogspot.com/2007/10/raisins-scare-me-shudder.html" target=" _blank">I knew they couldn't be raisins</a>", no kidding. Next time I am going to try subbing wheat flour for the AP flour and palm sugar instead of the brown sugar and increase the honey a little bit. Just to experiment with different sugars- palm sugar has a lower glycemic index than brown sugar, not because I think the cookies need improvement.<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">3 TBS unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
1/4 cup honey<br />
1 egg<br />
1 TBS water<br />
1/2 cup flour<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/4 tsp baking soda- I used 1/2 almost 3/4<br />
1 1/2 cups rolled oats<br />
the original recipe said any amount of the following- dried figs, chocolate chips, nuts, raisins, currants<br />
I added-<br />
1/2 cup dried pitted sulfured cherries<br />
1/2 cup white baking chips<br />
1/4 cup chopped dry roasted almonds<br />
1/2 tsp almond extract<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78wPirE7I/AAAAAAAAHBc/lWkPedkd7e8/s1600-h/DSC_7293+%28Large%29.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381516510490203058" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78wPirE7I/AAAAAAAAHBc/lWkPedkd7e8/s200/DSC_7293+%28Large%29.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 200px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 133px;" /></a><br />
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</div><div>Preheat an oven to 350 degrees. Grease a cookies sheet or cover one with parchment paper.<br />
Piglet helped me sift some ingredients.<br />
Sift- flour, soda, salt.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78v025zDI/AAAAAAAAHBU/0zkdvu6Dy1Q/s1600-h/DSC_7294+%28Large%29.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381516503327296562" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78v025zDI/AAAAAAAAHBU/0zkdvu6Dy1Q/s200/DSC_7294+%28Large%29.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 133px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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</div><div>Beat the butter and sugar together. Add the honey, water, egg and extract. Beat well. Add the flour mixture and mix.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78vSAFCuI/AAAAAAAAHBM/rox5fPHhfeI/s1600-h/DSC_7295+%28Large%29.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381516493970541282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78vSAFCuI/AAAAAAAAHBM/rox5fPHhfeI/s200/DSC_7295+%28Large%29.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 133px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>Stir in oats, mix well. Stir in cherries, chips and almonds.<br />
Bake for 12-15 minutes<br />
I baked them for 12 minutes.<br />
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<center><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78u_p0aiI/AAAAAAAAHBE/_rgYtjtti1Y/s1600-h/DSC_7298+%28Large%29.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381516489045338658" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/Sq78u_p0aiI/AAAAAAAAHBE/_rgYtjtti1Y/s200/DSC_7298+%28Large%29.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; height: 133px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a></center></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Post provided by the <a href="http://pleasegivepeasachance.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Please Give Peas a Chance</a> Blog.</i></div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-89023155413086451362012-01-27T08:00:00.001-05:002012-01-27T08:00:09.739-05:00This Week With the Mommies<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2PZbaTFR8gngd2IgObZGczO1LvEX4ssvLb44cgWi6a3ZKwFc33daV_Ynt_R8ymOFyLf4GQdatlyImXd46KCnvOUwAv0b6GVec5UU8r-UnfhRxOCrW6QdDEbvcYMbcFiV8vQFbcFk07U/s1600/TWWTM.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/" target="_blank">NWMichiganMommies</a> provides what our members need, when and how they need it.<br />
<br />
Click <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank">here</a> to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-13772744172967569772012-01-25T08:00:00.001-05:002012-01-25T08:00:05.626-05:00Making and Keeping Friends at Different Stages of LifeFriendships are often one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling parts of our lives. Not only do they provide us with company to engage in enjoyable activities, but they enrich our lives through shared meaning. Support systems have been linked to higher levels of happiness and improved overall health. While some friendships may only last for certain periods of time, others extend over a lifetime, and most of us recognize these relationships as some of the most important we will have. Even for people who generally feel they don't have trouble making friends, there are stages in life when this task may seem more difficult, leaving us feeling lonely or doubting our abilities to connect to others. If this feels like it is true for you, or you've noticed that this might be the case for your child, here are some ideas that might help in this process.<br />
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<b>Children</b><br />
With all the exciting activities that occur at this age, children may feel overwhelmed with the task of fitting in with their peers. Although you want their education to come first, making friends is most likely to be at the top of their agenda, and is also important to their development. Here are a few ways you can help your children establish relationships with their peers:<br />
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1. Teach your child important social skills that are essential to establishing and maintaining friendships such as sharing, listening, following rules, and playing fair. Allow your child to participate in events and activities that enable them to practice and implement these social skills. You can reinforce positive social interactions through verbal praise and, if this is something that is a real challenge for your child, through a structured reward system. <br />
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2. Provide opportunities for your child to play and socialize with other children their age such as play dates, sleepovers, car pooling, and extra-curricular activities. They should interact with their peers from school and in your neighborhood. <br />
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3. Read books with your children that teaches them about friendships and social skills. <br />
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4. It isn't uncommon for children to be timid or anxious about making friends. Be attentive to any red flags that your child may display that could indicate he or she is having trouble such as throwing tantrums, withdrawal from you more than is normal for them, or other changes in behavior or emotions. <br />
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<b>Teenagers</b><br />
During the teenage years, your son or daughter will encounter many possibilities to make friends such as participating in athletics, attending school events, and participating in extracurricular school activities. This is also a time when 'fitting in' and feeling connected to peers seems the most important to them, so not feeling part of a group or connected to people can feel especially difficult during these years. Here are some ways to help your teen navigate their social world: <br />
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1. Let your teen see how you interact with your friends. Because they are entering the young adult phase, it is important for them to see examples of mature, adult interactions. This can also help your teen better understand how positive friendships in adulthood look. If they are willing to go, take your teen to lunch with you and a friend. <br />
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2. Encourage your teen to partake in social activities that would enable him or her to meet other teens. This can include going to the movies, attending a dance, or eating dinner with a group of their peers. You can use your home as a 'safe' location for teens to hang out, yet still have adult supervision, by giving them a private area or room to spend time. <br />
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3. Talk to your teen about the meaning and importance of friendships. Discuss what makes someone a "good friend" and how to resolve conflicts and/or manage meaningful friendships they may have with others. <br />
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4. Monitor how your teen interacts with their friends. If you feel he or she is in an unhealthy relationship with one of their peers, attempt to provide guidance. <br />
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<b>Post college-graduates </b><br />
The college years provide young adults with numerous opportunities to meet new people as well as gain unique experiences. However, upon graduating, many people find it difficult or overwhelming with having to "start over" and meet new people, especially when relocating to a new town or city. Here are some ways that might help you connect to others after college: <br />
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1. Get involved in your local community. Join clubs, teams, or other extra-curricular and/or service based groups that allow you to meet and interact with others on a weekly basis. Working with others to reach a common goal is a great way to connect, and takes some of the pressure off this process, as you already share a common interest. <br />
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2. Invite people to engage in some sort of activity such as going to lunch, getting coffee or a drink, or hanging out at your place. <br />
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3. If you're shy or lacking in confidence, don't be discouraged because these feelings are not uncommon. Talk to someone else who has dealt with this stage of life, too. <br />
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<b>Adulthood</b><br />
As we enter adulthood, we often feel settled into patterns of making and maintaining friendships. However, many people feel dissatisfied with their outlets for social connection or the number of people to whom they truly feel close. When we are set in our ways, we can lack imagination regarding ways and places to connect to others. Here are some ideas about how to connect to new friends as adults: <br />
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1. Attend functions in your community that cater to something you are interested in but may not have tried before. This enables you to interact with people who you will begin to see on a regular basis. This could be joining a local charity with regular volunteer hours, or taking classes at a community center. <br />
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2. Join a group that involves doing something you enjoy yet keeps you active such as a yoga class or a golf club. This allows you to meet people with common interests, providing conversation starters that help take the pressure off the anxiety provoking introduction and connection process. <br />
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3. Invite family over for dinner. You can consider choosing members you feel most close or comfortable with or those who you want to get to know better, and set a theme for a dinner party. If you are in a relationship, consider having favorite members of both yours and your partner's family over together. This can deepen pre-existing relationships and lead to more regular family events and connections. <br />
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If you find your child or yourself having a little more difficulty making friends than you would like, speaking with a psychologist may help identify barriers and provide ideas for help moving past them. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Written by: Lepage Associates Solution-Based Psychological and Psychiatric Services, 5842 Fayetteville Road, Suite 106, Durham, NC 27713 <a href="http://www.lepageassociates.com/" target="_blank">www.lepageassociates.com</a></i></div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-62509640890838281492012-01-23T10:34:00.002-05:002012-01-23T10:34:50.240-05:00Menu Monday: Homemade Cheesecake Ice Cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBO6uOKhI/AAAAAAAAIe8/M4WPY3GuOlo/s1600/DSC_7433+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBO6uOKhI/AAAAAAAAIe8/M4WPY3GuOlo/s320/DSC_7433+%28Large%29.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I made some cheesecake for <a href="http://pleasegivepeasachance.blogspot.com/2010/05/cherry-cheesecake-bombs.html">Cherry Cheesecake bombs</a> and I had some filling leftover. I decided to make this AMAZING ice cream. I decided to use a buttermilk base and it was perfect - the tang from the buttermilk with the cheesecake bites- PERFECT. I'm really enjoying being "back" in the kitchen lately and experimenting and coming up with fun things to try. </div><div style="text-align: left;">1 1/4 cup heavy cream</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 teaspoon vanilla paste/1vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla</div><div style="text-align: left;">7 egg yolks</div><div style="text-align: left;">3/4 cup sugar, I used <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/46502464/vanilla-bean-specialty-sugar">Vanilla Bean Specialty Sugar</a> - you can use a cup, I just don't prefer things overly sweet</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 cups buttermilk</div><div style="text-align: left;">Maraschino cherries roughly chopped(with some juice reserved)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Vanilla bean cheesecake chunks (I'll post that recipe soon also)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Graham cracker pieces- I gave the girls the option of graham crackers or <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-color: yellow; background-image: none; background-position: 0% 0%;">oreos</span>. They chose graham- I'm glad </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBF95DEXI/AAAAAAAAIeE/SF8uN7yzbQE/s1600/DSC_6906+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBF95DEXI/AAAAAAAAIeE/SF8uN7yzbQE/s200/DSC_6906+%28Large%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Freeze the cherries and cheesecake in a single layer.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBGVb4cuI/AAAAAAAAIeM/opBr64p_-6Q/s1600/DSC_6922+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBGVb4cuI/AAAAAAAAIeM/opBr64p_-6Q/s200/DSC_6922+%28Large%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a bowl and set aside.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBHxSUhUI/AAAAAAAAIeU/nbjR8ojdCZ8/s1600/DSC_6925+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBHxSUhUI/AAAAAAAAIeU/nbjR8ojdCZ8/s200/DSC_6925+%28Large%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">In a heavy bottom sauce pan stir the vanilla into the heavy cream. Bring it to a simmer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBIy7Bs9I/AAAAAAAAIec/1fUhQzXbwgc/s1600/DSC_6935+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBIy7Bs9I/AAAAAAAAIec/1fUhQzXbwgc/s200/DSC_6935+%28Large%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Temper the cream and yolk mixture. I can't stress this enough. Be patient unless you want scrambled eggs. To temper add a little bit of cream to the yolk mixture and stir it. Add a little more and repeat to bring the yolks up to temperature and then add all the yolk mixture to the cream.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBJmv0ZQI/AAAAAAAAIek/9QyT-xIk-B4/s1600/DSC_6937+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBJmv0ZQI/AAAAAAAAIek/9QyT-xIk-B4/s200/DSC_6937+%28Large%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">I put some cherry juice into the buttermilk. Stir it up and add it to the cream mixture. Transfer to a container and cool in the refrigerator.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBLAgFZ3I/AAAAAAAAIes/X6fM6fUfWEo/s1600/DSC_6976+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBLAgFZ3I/AAAAAAAAIes/X6fM6fUfWEo/s200/DSC_6976+%28Large%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Follow the instructions for your ice cream/<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-color: yellow; background-image: none; background-position: 0% 0%;">gellato</span> maker. Right before it's done stir in the yummy goodness that's in the freezer along with the graham crackers. Transfer it all to a container and finish freezing it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBNAZX5YI/AAAAAAAAIe0/oiUxakdaEkw/s1600/DSC_7431+%28Large%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_h9Jp6ncJVks/S_YBNAZX5YI/AAAAAAAAIe0/oiUxakdaEkw/s200/DSC_7431+%28Large%29.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Can it get any easier?<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Century Gothic'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><i>Post provided by the <a href="http://pleasegivepeasachance.blogspot.com/" style="color: #66bb33; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Please Give Peas a Chance</a> Blog.</i></span></div></div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-7396757992078605822012-01-22T08:00:00.001-05:002012-01-22T08:00:08.455-05:00Do You Have Flower Power?<a href="http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2387/flowerpowersmallgraphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2387/flowerpowersmallgraphic.jpg" /></a>Are you looking for some curb appeal? Do you need to beautify your backyard? Spring planting season may be a few months away, but there's no better time than now to grow with <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/">NWMichiganMommies</a>! We've partnered with Flower Power to bring you a fabulous fundraiser to help you plan the garden of your dreams.<br />
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Flower Power sells quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. Gorgeous geraniums, tantalizing tiger lilies, and beautiful begonias are just a few of the many bulbs available and ready to be shipped to your door. This fundraiser runs Jan. 22–March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms.<br />
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So save some gas and the trip to your local nursery or big-box store, and plan your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Visit <a href="http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240229/95fcmRpD2S5a">http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240229/95fcmRpD2S5a</a> to view the enormous array of flower bulbs, and spring into Flower Power and NWMichiganMommies' fabulous fundraiser!<br />
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Special bonus: Spend $40 or more to receive a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value.<br />
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Grow with us!<br />
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<i>Profits made through our fundraising link go toward our chapter's operating expenses.</i>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-40420267870377159432012-01-20T08:00:00.002-05:002012-01-20T08:00:01.755-05:00Reminder: Ring in the New Year with TMN!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXGpWzcY6IMgeIKSFAeLx8ZL1WRi8uQMgGjOrQkbnrk0F9tERk58ec2AeUF0D0kfGm2lwwwJToNp8kvaiPVB7nq0qsNWp1lj6jQ_df3CYv9XRHB5-DXFbZOdj3wi5fvuEQrmmSnDTQGw/s1600/forumad2.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/AVvXsEhuXGpWzcY6IMgeIKSFAeLx8ZL1WRi8uQMgGjOrQkbnrk0F9tERk58ec2AeUF0D0kfGm2lwwwJToNp8kvaiPVB7nq0qsNWp1lj6jQ_df3CYv9XRHB5-DXFbZOdj3wi5fvuEQrmmSnDTQGw/s1600/forumad2.jpg" /></a></div>
The New Year's parties may have ended, but our sponsorship promotion hasn't! We're still ringing in the New Year at The Mommies Network with an incredible deal that will have you reaching for your noisemakers.
Moms may have the greatest buying power, sharing business experiences and trends with one another. And since women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income, targeting this group benefits your company. Resolve to reach this influential portion of the population by taking advantage of this limited-time promotion.
With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.
The end of the month is just around the corner, so what are you waiting for? Celebrate with TMN by taking advantage of this amazing deal.
For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-87177686803159959272012-01-20T08:00:00.001-05:002012-01-20T08:00:00.283-05:00This Week With the Mommies<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2PZbaTFR8gngd2IgObZGczO1LvEX4ssvLb44cgWi6a3ZKwFc33daV_Ynt_R8ymOFyLf4GQdatlyImXd46KCnvOUwAv0b6GVec5UU8r-UnfhRxOCrW6QdDEbvcYMbcFiV8vQFbcFk07U/s1600/TWWTM.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/" target="_blank">NWMichiganMommies</a> provides what our members need, when and how they need it.<br />
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Click <a href="http://www.nwmichiganmommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank">here</a> to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-91881194877061295862012-01-18T09:00:00.001-05:002012-01-18T09:00:12.732-05:00MOMics Comics - Making Baby Food<center><img alt="Baby Margaritas?" src="http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/7192/sundaymomics2babyfood.jpg" /></center><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Illustration by Rainey Niklawski from <a href="http://richmondmommies.com/">RichmondMommies.com</a>, A3 for The Mommies Network</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>If you enjoy drawing or designing mom-centered comics of your own, consider contributing to our weekly "Momics" column! Send us an email at <a href="mailto:blogs@themommiesnetwork.org">blogs@themommiesnetwork.org</a></b></div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-33426083782145994812012-01-16T09:00:00.001-05:002012-01-16T09:00:13.362-05:00Menu Monday - Rainbow Cake<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mondays can be great or one of those Mondays. For me today was one of those Mondays. My daughter decided to show everyone in BlockBuster what kind of demon crawled up in her by screaming and throwing her bag of M&Ms every where. She didn't stop screaming til we got to the car.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So I knew today was a good day to do some cake therapy. A good cake can take care of any problems. As soon as my daughter took her nap I hit the kitchen to make Rainbow Cake.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu2YfMsFhNV9uXh3ziU30e9FoAa19ojWWEllteBHX4gp2FEykiQBak1KSFRh6OZOEvvwxc66i8MOk8IlQNfQ-eTe22FQQvlrvsuHiMce-8YWKEvi_9psIdzL_diXyWz91la4HiZb2XfNnV/s1600/101_5270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu2YfMsFhNV9uXh3ziU30e9FoAa19ojWWEllteBHX4gp2FEykiQBak1KSFRh6OZOEvvwxc66i8MOk8IlQNfQ-eTe22FQQvlrvsuHiMce-8YWKEvi_9psIdzL_diXyWz91la4HiZb2XfNnV/s640/101_5270.JPG" width="478" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Rainbow Cake in Jar</b></span><br />
<div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #333333; display: block; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;">1 box white cake mix made according to package instructions</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;">Neon food coloring in pink, yellow, green, turquoise, and purple</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;">3 one-pint canning jars</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;">1 can vanilla frosting</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;">Rainbow sprinkles</span></div><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.7em; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: none;"></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Thoroughly wash and dry the inside of each canning jar. Spray the inside of each jar thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. Take your one box white cake mix and make according to package instructions. To be honest I messed up and didn't use egg whites in my cake. Still came out yummy.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
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</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9eKDy9pVF3tOmDhmL7Dx2jN5A2mdqspLrwpMeIAt6xZvCcynSBM_yVh3j1QrVufa3YxVaEi8uflkpY2-7zQFzo5iPV1pEG2zOzjrm90Jsw_pX74bkMn5Ey9xok6FGSiL6Vm7HG2CRCnkd/s1600/101_5246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9eKDy9pVF3tOmDhmL7Dx2jN5A2mdqspLrwpMeIAt6xZvCcynSBM_yVh3j1QrVufa3YxVaEi8uflkpY2-7zQFzo5iPV1pEG2zOzjrm90Jsw_pX74bkMn5Ey9xok6FGSiL6Vm7HG2CRCnkd/s400/101_5246.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Scoop about 1/2 cups of cake batter into five small bowls. It doesn’t have to be perfect, don’t panic if you get a little more of less of one color than another. Tint each bowl of cake batter with the food coloring until very vibrant.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Note: I used more then 1/2 cups of cake batter in each bowl. I was cake hungry. If I do this recipe again I would only use 1/2 cup of cake batter for each bowl and make cupcakes with the extra batter. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsX3mReQ2gtI0z0PlU0W-fAbA6rn8ooni5JVnD_z0DabDU-b-dii8b7CCnDPe2Jul8FtLEbuTJcbuRwqafZz9Mxyt-T8kuZgJip-ycC0_v74bts6VMMroQCnrpofypkGS5S4p20d3ithp3/s1600/101_5249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsX3mReQ2gtI0z0PlU0W-fAbA6rn8ooni5JVnD_z0DabDU-b-dii8b7CCnDPe2Jul8FtLEbuTJcbuRwqafZz9Mxyt-T8kuZgJip-ycC0_v74bts6VMMroQCnrpofypkGS5S4p20d3ithp3/s400/101_5249.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the purple batter into the bottom of each jar. Spoon equal amounts of turquoise batter, then green, yellow, and pink. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Note: I was not very clean with how I scooped the batter into the jars. I think next time I would use a funnel so the different colors don't mix on the side of the jar. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhpoatGzH5ZqdtH2yMKpxvci9zTMoZRvuBg9vAio6tqpnG7AGLbpMpFDHKq6CX5lF2as4s1sdjh1nhMXQfz4FAHbT7IkP1E-h5kvau8WoZ-fKpsbQcsl6m2bdyWjvrbvCrh-E4aDlm7RA/s1600/101_5252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhpoatGzH5ZqdtH2yMKpxvci9zTMoZRvuBg9vAio6tqpnG7AGLbpMpFDHKq6CX5lF2as4s1sdjh1nhMXQfz4FAHbT7IkP1E-h5kvau8WoZ-fKpsbQcsl6m2bdyWjvrbvCrh-E4aDlm7RA/s400/101_5252.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Place the jars in a shallow baking dish, add about 1/4″ in water in the baking dish. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JAEgKlS0ocvttSTawuB21AIN0mDgzMLrNYVHZgUCvIsXGS3aPooDqyx6UdnOKYsPi45ZM81eg74R7D_mQdaiUY4Wg8Uq8BZ5Xzjs0ZdnyE9xQWIMEK0uv0lQDsSP9DvMbcctSpk1Ucni/s1600/101_5254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JAEgKlS0ocvttSTawuB21AIN0mDgzMLrNYVHZgUCvIsXGS3aPooDqyx6UdnOKYsPi45ZM81eg74R7D_mQdaiUY4Wg8Uq8BZ5Xzjs0ZdnyE9xQWIMEK0uv0lQDsSP9DvMbcctSpk1Ucni/s400/101_5254.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Note: The cake will mushroom over the top. I used extra batter which caused the volcano effect. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Remove jars and allow to cool completely before scooping a small portion from the top of your cake and adding a hefty dollop of vanilla buttercream to the top. Sprinkle & serve, or cover with a lid and store in the fridge. In the end you will have a unique dessert for your loved ones. This dessert didn't come out as clean as I had hoped, but it reminds me of those sand bottles you make at carnivals and festivals. The important thing is that I had a blast and it made my day end on a happy note. </span></span></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Post originally submitted to the <a href="http://centralpiedmontmommies.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">CentralPiedmontMommies Blog</a> on June 20, 2011</i></div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732412736738146669.post-78458779176164507422012-01-16T08:00:00.000-05:002012-01-16T08:00:06.521-05:00TMN Weigh-In Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://74.220.207.199/%7Ecomplex7/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/ballroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://74.220.207.199/%7Ecomplex7/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/ballroom.jpg" /></a></div>
Hello, and Happy New Year to everyone!<br />
<br />
My name is Karen Skidmore, and I am the owner of <a href="http://www.completely-fit.com/" target="_blank">Completely Fit</a>, a personal training and fitness company located in Mount Airy, Md. I am a team leader for one of the groups in The Mommies Network Weigh-In Challenge.<br />
<br />
All my team members have started off strong and are working very hard to accomplish their goals. They were asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire about their current nutritional and fitness habits, and answer questions about what changes they wanted to create. Based on that information, I have helped each person come up with a detailed action plan that will not only help to accomplish her goals, but more importantly, help to improve her lifestyle.<br />
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If you are looking to make a change in your life but are not a part of the Weigh-In Challenge, you too can do it with just a few small changes at a time.<br />
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If your nutrition is off track, start by taking away one unhealthy food once a week and replacing it with a healthy food.<br />
<br />
If your exercise routine is off track, start by finding something you really enjoy doing — walking, biking, or swimming — and adding 10 minutes of that exercise to your day. Before you know it, exercise will have become a daily routine.<br />
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Be sure to track your results, as we do much better when we can see our progress.<br />
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I am very excited to be a part of this group and team, and I look forward to reporting our successes back to you each month.
<i>— Karen Skidmore, <a href="http://www.completely-fit.com/" target="_blank">Completely Fit</a></i>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0