tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52401463336094782062024-03-05T03:02:16.687-05:00My Other Eight8 at WORK, 8 at REST, that leaves 8 to fill with ZESTMy Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-51177640413512753892023-02-25T11:47:00.001-05:002023-02-25T11:47:13.386-05:00Birthday gifts for our soon to be 12 year old daughter!<p>I cannot believe C is about to turn 12. She's grown up into a mature, sensible, practical tween that never ceases to amaze me. She is also such an amazing big sister to A and N. It's so tough to figure out what to get a tween, but here's the list she compiled.</p><p>1. If you saw my last post about gifts for A, you'll remember the kids are all about boba / bubble tea.</p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3IziVNm" target="_blank">Taro Milk Tea Kit</a></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09KNXZJBN&asins=B09KNXZJBN&linkId=c26967ea325d8f232c0fed8e00bc5ca8&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3ZdQCuU" target="_blank">Variety Milk Tea Kit</a></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09KNZ7VQ3&asins=B09KNZ7VQ3&linkId=19891607f7e49313c9afb4b6abda64f8&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>2. I am torn about putting this on, but <a href="https://amzn.to/3Z2Tv1F" target="_blank">Roblox gift cards</a> are always on the kids' lists. While I personally think it's a waste of money, they love it... </p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07RZ74VLR&asins=B07RZ74VLR&linkId=c4c7846016a35ef3163f7a3d4904c1c0&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><div><br /></div><div>3. Wow.. this thing does everything. It's an <a href="https://amzn.to/41CucW6" target="_blank">alarm clock</a>, bluetooth speaker, night light, and white noise machine all in one. Plus it can play music from your phone via bluetooth, micro SD, or USB. AND it has a remote! </div><div><br /></div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B098NZXDY4&asins=B098NZXDY4&linkId=3e7b4e2babe8dec433007704b20832fa&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><div><br /></div><div>4. C's current <3 is Stitch. She was Stitch for Halloween one year and also has this Stitch holiday sweater that she loves to wear. We found this <a href="https://amzn.to/3kmGLUJ" target="_blank">cute necklace</a> that she put on her wishlist.</div><div><br /></div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0BKTHMQSZ&asins=B0BKTHMQSZ&linkId=2c35189702ff7ff18d2039cc23815cc5&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=false" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><div><br /></div><div>5. As soon as I saw this, I thought of C. <a href="https://amzn.to/3Y6tDke" target="_blank">This hoodie</a> matches her to a T..</div><div><br /></div><iframe sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon®ion=US&placement=B07RYBH1M2&asins=B07RYBH1M2&linkId=89961fe95289fc9d337f3933a707fb9c&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true"></iframe>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-64886933369463143702023-02-18T06:26:00.004-05:002023-02-25T11:10:28.354-05:00Birthday gifts for our soon to be 9-year old daughter<p>Our little girls are growing up! I asked them both to put together a wishlist for their birthdays and here it is. I can't believe we have a tween in our house! Things are about to get crazy...I'll add our 12-year old's wishlist in a subsequent post but for now...</p><p>Top 5 things our 9-year old daughter wants:</p><p>1. Our daughter loves the Baby-sitters Club Graphic Novels. She has been reading them nonstop and asked for several more books from the series!</p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0B83Z475R&asins=B0B83Z475R&linkId=232d8d6134c4f56e3ec35257864324c3&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09ZNQV5RC&asins=B09ZNQV5RC&linkId=76eeeb408d34e78ad0f81db2ef391e59&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09PZR47CB&asins=B09PZR47CB&linkId=8436c0cfd88fd6eabe3501d17f9027f5&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>2. <a href="https://amzn.to/3krmZqW" target="_blank">Pop It Journal / Notebook</a>: Is it even a wishlist without something Pop It related? Even though they have Pop It everything, my daughter still wants more! I don't mind...they're super fun! </p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09KCC6RCT&asins=B09KCC6RCT&linkId=86c5ad71afa5e3c3b313aa8a9daa43fa&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>3. <a href="https://amzn.to/3xSYfLj" target="_blank">Diary</a>: I thought this was an interesting item for A to put on her list. Sometimes she has this tough exterior and I forget just how sweet and sensitive she is behind the mischievous grin and constant jokes. It's nice to think she would use this journal and express herself in ways she may not feel comfortable enough doing out loud yet. </p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B08FHN2XBY&asins=B08FHN2XBY&linkId=66e8153fa3d437db5803b31d2985960a&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>4. <a href="https://amzn.to/3xSYoyl" target="_blank">Electronic Piggy Bank</a>: This definitely isn't a piggy bank as we knew it. It looks like an ATM, has a 4-digit passcode, and plays music! Do I think all the bells and whistles are necessary? No. Does my daughter want it and I hope it inspires her to save her money instead of spending it on Roblox gift cards? Y E S</p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09H2ZFTG7&asins=B09H2ZFTG7&linkId=b554408dc055bf8c2937bdd9b03a7dff&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>5. <a href="https://amzn.to/3ITTWWv" target="_blank">Flying Orb Ball</a>: Not going to lie, this looks pretty awesome. I don't know if it works, but it has decent ratings and looks entertaining! Now I just have to think of how I'll prevent fights between her sister and brother over who gets to play with it lol</p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09PYLQ9LK&asins=B09PYLQ9LK&linkId=1da7d981a8bf7443a42b2b3d9b8bd5c7&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>6. BONUS: <a href="https://amzn.to/3m4v4SY" target="_blank">Bubble Tea Kit</a>. Our kids are obsessed with all things bubble tea / boba related. Hence the bonus addition of the below DIY kit. I've been trying to teach them how to experiment in the kitchen and make their own creations. It saves us money and makes them super proud and self-confident.</p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00GR96VG0&asins=B00GR96VG0&linkId=28a95995925f40047dac852b2f1ae75b&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-48853285934894011012023-02-13T06:39:00.004-05:002023-02-13T06:39:51.653-05:00Still no social media at 11 years old?!<p> As you may know, we were extra cautious when raising our oldest daughter. She had all the loving, doting care that a first born child typically receives and she is also the first in her generation to be born in my extended family. However the one rule we have held onto is not allowing her to have a social media account. I'm not quite sure when I'll be ready for that one. Here are a few reasons why I'm not a fan:</p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Cyberbullying</b>: Is anyone else afraid of what would have happened had we all grown up under the microscope of social media? I'm not sure I would have survived and I'm sure as heck glad that my mistakes aren't floating around on the internet forever. The effects of social media and cyberbullying on self-esteem and mental health scares me..especially as my kids are still developing and may not have a strong sense of self yet.</li><li><b>Online predators</b>: As if cyberbullying wasn't enough, we also have online predators to deal with. Ugh</li><li><b>Addiction</b>: I know how new and exciting having social media can be...I'm a 90s kid! It breaks my heart to see kids on their phone all day every day and not interacting with the world around them. Social media can be addictive, and I'm not sure I'm ready to fight my kids for the phone all the time when I can still influence them to go outside and play or read a book.</li><li><b>Content</b>: Have you seen some of the cr@p people put out there on social media? Enough said...</li><li><b>Privacy</b>: While I trust our kids and think they're smart, do I think that they are naïve and may be tricked into sharing personal information and data with others? I'm not stupid. Adults still click on those well-crafted phishing e-mails. </li></ol><div>So what is the right age for social media? I'd love to know your thoughts in the comments!</div><p></p>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-25152925991488333452023-01-22T13:05:00.001-05:002023-01-22T13:05:10.578-05:00Valentine's Day Fun!<p> Growing up my parents always made Valentine's Day a special day for us. We'd wake up to special treats at the breakfast table and sometimes at school we'd receive a little package in the middle of the day. While I struggle with being annoyed about how commercial the holiday has become, I still want my kids to feel loved. Here's are a few items on my list that I'm not completely gagging about buying for them:</p><p>1. LEGO Movie 2 Emmet's Piece Offering (we love anything LEGO in our house!)</p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07MW4RG5W&asins=B07MW4RG5W&linkId=9d9ebd1d12ab5fc4ee8218d30252c084&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><p>2. Happy Valentine's Day, Mouse! (my kids just love these books)</p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=0061804320&asins=0061804320&linkId=caa3bd0e58886420778676f6203d2928&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><p>3. LCD Writing Tablet Doodle Board </p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0922WX37L&asins=B0922WX37L&linkId=73ace3759ff762bad517bd3317ffa5a1&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><p><br /></p>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-36328440495216839342023-01-02T10:59:00.001-05:002023-01-02T10:59:08.100-05:00Holiday Hustle<p> What holiday would be complete without some last minute additions to our Christmas list? If you are looking for any type of gift, here are a few that the kids added on:</p><p>1. A classic Tamagotchi - both of our 8- and 7-year old kids asked for these:</p><p>How cute is this R2-D2 Tamagotchi??</p><p><br /><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B097Z451CX&asins=B097Z451CX&linkId=ab1bdb12db7e5517043bf4f83af3ca5d&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>And here's the one we picked out for our daughter (she's a little spitfire):</p><p><br /><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0B2J6PNNZ&asins=B0B2J6PNNZ&linkId=b4f6b03557251131542c6683d8660cf3&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>2. Our oldest REALLY really wanted paint pens. I guess they're all the rage!</p><p><br /><iframe sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon®ion=US&placement=B07DB1TVND&asins=B07DB1TVND&linkId=b63d753d33f4732bd78a6ac93f1afa0c&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true"></iframe></p><p><br /></p>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-17043156069466307442022-12-06T16:03:00.010-05:002022-12-06T16:06:51.238-05:00There's still time! Gift lists for our 8-year old daughter and 7-year old son<p>Thanks to Amazon Prime there is still time to get some last minute holiday gifts that are sure to please. Below are the top choices from our 8-year old daughter and 7-year old son.
</p><p><b><u>Top 5 gifts for our 8-year old daughter</u></b></p>
1. Lately our daughter has really gotten into the idea of creating and publishing her own book. She went bonkers for this kit! <div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0742JVGND&asins=B0742JVGND&linkId=445b875e36b758a99e11a4e90c97504f&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <div><br /></div><div> 2. She's also been into Rainbow Loom and immediately ripped into this set. Now we have a couch filled with rainbow loom bananas, but at least it keeps her busy and happy!</div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0916KH81H&asins=B0916KH81H&linkId=913522bbc7f86d3e74c994cd3809f7ce&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div> 3. Is it even a top 5 list without slime of some sort? It's been 2 years and they are still obsessed!</div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B084DPVZSW&asins=B084DPVZSW&linkId=046da6f1d8927b5e8f67488a8b35efc0&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div> 4. Another gift that appeals to her crafty side, this "sewing machine". When I tell you how much I love that she can begin to create things without me having to watch her every step of the way...*tears of joy*. Seeing her independently follow the instructions and her sense of pride upon completing something is magical. </div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09NLSP5FF&asins=B09NLSP5FF&linkId=cdd580a847c290021489d713ef89e959&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div> 5. How adorable is this backpack? It was perfect for a recent trip to Disney! I saved my back by having the kids lug around their own water bottles, sunglasses, hats, and autograph boards (I'll have to write a post on that another day). </div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B091NQY5XW&asins=B091NQY5XW&linkId=57897ac631de5eea32dda1260cc2e2b2&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>Now for my son...boy I did not realize what boy energy was and just how different he would be from our girls right from the get-go! Anyway, you can probably see as much in his wishlist: </div></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Top 5 gifts for our 7-year old son </u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>1. I have to say, this is a pretty neat gift. While I'm not sure I love the idea of him doing this in the house, I see it getting a lot of use in our basement and occupying the kids for a good while in the winter! </div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0B52ZD9DD&asins=B0B52ZD9DD&linkId=931aa141177e07ce86941a0a8bbe2d31&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div>2. N has been asking a LOT about volcanos lately. We've been watching videos and this seemed a fitting gift...I'll probably wait until there's a nice enough day where we can do this outside, though!</div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B082ZLM39R&asins=B082ZLM39R&linkId=4dee2f91739316a31bcd7cce57684660&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div>3. Although one of the planes broke the first day we opened this (and I think it was because someone stepped on it), all three kids really enjoyed bringing this into the backyard and playing with it! Fun times and the planes go farther than I thought they would!</div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B09SZ1SSJT&asins=B09SZ1SSJT&linkId=ce1361ac9730c2ffd38a0ee65bc9b3dd&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div>4. N couldn't wait to cuddle up in this blanket. He insisted we wash it asap and loved how soft it is.</div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07LBXPYRL&asins=B07LBXPYRL&linkId=d37fc0ad380418586896c03ff5c2221c&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div>5. We do not need any more hot wheels in our house. That said...this is a pretty cool track. The kids get a kick out of them crashing and I get one more sip of warm coffee in!</div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B01ARGC5F4&asins=B01ARGC5F4&linkId=70a46648dcd184cd565d05741c21ab39&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-74229902473086848902022-11-25T09:02:00.008-05:002022-11-25T09:02:53.594-05:00Great gifts for the Photographer in Your Life (and a bonus for the knitters!)I had trouble figuring out what to get for my husband, my dad, and my brother. Then I remembered that they're all into photography but, alas, they're not all able to read books on photography and I certainly couldn't afford to purchase each of them a new camera or lens. So... as you can probably tell from the title of this post...what stroke of genius hit me?
Everyone loves a punny t-shirt! <div><br /></div><div> For my brother and husband I purchased this cheeky shirt:
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DVQVGDH?ie=UTF8&customId=B07537P18N&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=myothereigh09-20&linkId=7fc2ec987a733c7cf3fa9db06128da7c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_il" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07DVQVGDH&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&l=li2&o=1&a=B07DVQVGDH" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /> </div><div><br /></div><div> And for my dad, I bought this:
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BHKWXB4F?ie=UTF8&customId=B07535Y1SC&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=myothereigh09-20&linkId=c23b10043c7a16181e20a6d563b49d98&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_il" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B0BHKWXB4F&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&l=li2&o=1&a=B0BHKWXB4F" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /></div><div><br /></div><div>
Awesome, right? They immediately loved it and I have to say the quality of the shirts are not half bad! We haven't washed them yet but they feel nice. </div><div><br /></div><div> And for the person who knits or crochets? I got this funny t-shirt:
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KGX9RGF?ie=UTF8&customId=B0752XJYPK&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=myothereigh09-20&linkId=e40928fc6dcfae18e8e10d3947df240f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_il" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07KGX9RGF&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&l=li2&o=1&a=B07KGX9RGF" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" />
and this yarn storage bag:
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WRTQZ9G?ie=UTF8&th=1&linkCode=li2&tag=myothereigh09-20&linkId=96da0674e1c414893bc5bb61a1ffd2c2&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_il" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B06WRTQZ9G&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&l=li2&o=1&a=B06WRTQZ9G" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /> </div><div><br /></div><div>My mom loved both! Now she can carry around her yarn and everything is organized and easy to find.
I feel like a gift giving rockstar :)
</div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-34088643992192822372022-11-16T17:49:00.004-05:002022-11-16T17:52:23.014-05:00Our 11 year old daughter's top 5 Next up, our 11- (going on 16) year old daughter has a lot on her wishlist. I'll highlight her top 5 below: <div><br /></div><div> 1. Crop top hoodie </div><div>Apparently these are all the rage with the tweens in her school, especially white hoodies. Good luck keeping them clean!! Please share any tips you have ;)</div><div>
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B08PKPCJ6F&asins=B08PKPCJ6F&linkId=b88d41e3e31120ce93e40ba1172ac74d&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
<div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>2. MindWare Lava Lip Gloss Lab</div><div>This counts as educational, right?</div><div><br /><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07KFQKQDH&asins=B07KFQKQDH&linkId=ee08867e3ed200bb8147248bdb9616b1&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>3. MindWare Crystal Growing Kit</div><div>All three of our children have been really into growing crystals lately. The dragons in this kit are too cute</div><div><br /><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0B9YPRCB7&asins=B0B9YPRCB7&linkId=67f5c95d4e4d87674663e0540e02d2fe&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>4. Wayside School 3-book collection</div><div>Do you remember these books from way back when? I absolutely love that my daughter also finds them humorous. Man I miss reading these and cannot wait to re-read them with her!</div><div><br /><iframe sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon®ion=US&placement=B01NBXQAD9&asins=B01NBXQAD9&linkId=1ddf5c5063752b90e4d7655160848b85&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>5. Loungefly Pokemon Ombre Backpack</div><div>This combines our daughter's love of Pokemon with a cute af backpack that I seriously want to steal</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><iframe sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon®ion=US&placement=B0993CZFRV&asins=B0993CZFRV&linkId=68792e6349bce55ad897c1adab178b91&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true"></iframe></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-52705498746350543882022-11-14T22:11:00.000-05:002022-11-14T22:11:03.840-05:00Holiday Shopping...for me90% of my day is spent thinking of others...my kids, my family, my husband, friends, colleagues...you name it. In 2023 we should make self care a priority (do I say this every year?). I notice I'm much happier, more patient, more giving when I feel my needs are being met. Sounds silly and simple, but it's so true. Therefore, I'm going to start the holiday season by sharing my personal wishlist.<div><br /></div><div>My personal top 5 gifts to get a busy full-time working mom of 3 kids under 12... </div><div><br /></div><div>1. <a href="Secura Detachable Milk Frother, 17oz " target="_blank">Secura Detachable Milk Frother, 17oz $54.96 </a></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07H195F48&asins=B07H195F48&linkId=b7e8286aec289234d2b74131e8f707c2&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>It may seem lame, but every cold morning that my kids want warm milk with their breakfast or I want to make hot cocoa after coming in from sledding I dread having to warm up their milk in a pot. It's annoying and I hate having to babysit something on the stove (also why we bought an <a href="https://amzn.to/3GgLe3R" target="_blank">Instant Pot</a>...but I digress). This baby actually heats AND froths milk!</div><div><br /></div><div>2. <a href="https://amzn.to/3UUOFkx" target="_blank">Babycakes Multi-Treat Baker $42.99</a></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00GJ9MA2W&asins=B00GJ9MA2W&linkId=750e42cf000e6d41694e43c6891a17b3&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>I am constantly struggling on what to make for breakfast for the kids. I'd love to be able to serve them warm baked treats but it always seems like such a hassle. You can make 7 donuts, 7 cupcakes, or 12 cake pops...inspiration central!</div><div><br /></div><div>3. <a href="https://amzn.to/3X1lgae" target="_blank">Coffee Mug Warmer, $23.99</a></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B08FDFRKR3&asins=B08FDFRKR3&linkId=a403ea9d659bb36baa591a79ccca4aec&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>The prospect of being able to finish a cup of coffee and have it still be warm/ hot? That's the stuff dreams are made of...</div><div><br /></div><div>4. <a href="https://amzn.to/3O4zHqb" target="_blank">San Francisco Clam Chowder Soup with Bread Bowls, $56.90</a></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B079DH2W6V&asins=B079DH2W6V&linkId=a3e2b7a859202cfe608ff52c0466a5e6&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>Completely indulgent, and I know shipping is a lot, but can you think of anything better than San Francisco clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl on a winter day? The answer should be no. I've never ordered this, but I am soooo close to just buying this for myself.</div><div><br /></div><div>5. <a href="https://amzn.to/3ADmpeT" target="_blank">Premium Fleece Blanket with Sleeves, $19.99</a></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0745MFSYC&asins=B0745MFSYC&linkId=8f0749ac6145107ddff8069e432b8b3b&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>If I am wearing this and sitting on the couch doing anything..ANYTHING... leave me the f alone. I just want to curl up in this with a good book in a sunny nook and cycle between reading and daydreaming.</div><div><br /></div><div>There you have it. I hope this helps!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-9592268076526641242021-04-23T12:35:00.002-04:002021-04-23T12:35:50.843-04:00Century Ride!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZE0vNopnSd40NOLgqvKhAC3hCoC8cmHarqsaCJ3I3KlUDmtHQK7bXseLnacNLEQj_0Ob7GI3s3gleEiKuMWBcx0XULr9MK4uUFMmfhL4ErGaMfMLl4uUdXyudNu2sNzyiO8B-G9EXWu6/s1125/IMG_4376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="1125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZE0vNopnSd40NOLgqvKhAC3hCoC8cmHarqsaCJ3I3KlUDmtHQK7bXseLnacNLEQj_0Ob7GI3s3gleEiKuMWBcx0XULr9MK4uUFMmfhL4ErGaMfMLl4uUdXyudNu2sNzyiO8B-G9EXWu6/s320/IMG_4376.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Yesterday I wasn't sure I wanted to get out of bed. I forced myself to do it because I owe it to myself and my family. Sometimes I miss the days where I could just lie in bed until 10am, but since the pandemic started I've kept my alarm ringing at 6AM. My son wakes up at 7, and I realized every time he wakes me up by knocking on the wall between our bedrooms it immediately made me annoyed. Now I get a little bit of time to wake up and put myself in the right mindset for the day. <p></p><p>I'm not going to say that I'm always in a great mood in the morning, but at least I can try. </p><p>All that said, I remembered that it was my Century Ride and snapped out of it. Yes, I've fallen in love with my Peloton like many others. I bought it to keep myself healthy and exercise when I couldn't get to the gym during the pandemic, but want to say that it's done so much more than kept me moving. It's hard to explain, but the instructors are incredible...almost therapeutic in the way they motivate and encourage the community. There have been more than a few times where I've teared / cried during a ride. Sounds lame, but it's true! Here are a few of my favorite rides so far:</p><p><a href="https://members.onepeloton.com/classes/cycling?modal=classDetailsModal&classId=9e310972a9704ae9be74edeff1e60140" target="_blank">Denis Morton - 45 min The Beatles Ride Vol. 2</a></p><p><a href="https://members.onepeloton.com/classes/cycling?modal=classDetailsModal&classId=0f35f3c706f54ca6915c8f829fcdf3f1" target="_blank">Kendall Toole - 30 min World Mental Health Day Ride</a></p><p><a href="https://members.onepeloton.com/classes/cycling?modal=classDetailsModal&classId=465ee7f6fc42488cb9b67cd36ad21da1" target="_blank">Alex & Tunde 45 min Bad Boy Entertainment Ride</a></p><p><a href="https://members.onepeloton.com/classes/cycling?modal=classDetailsModal&classId=13c030131dd34300b9b9124f16c6fed6" target="_blank">Christine D'Ercole - 45 min Pentatonix Ride</a></p><p>Have any suggestions? Let me know in the comments! </p><p><br /></p>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-19194769087129713342021-02-28T15:59:00.008-05:002022-11-15T18:12:11.798-05:00Dear Amazon: Take My Money!<p style="text-align: left;">I LOVE working from home. I love being able to see our kids in the morning and at night. I even treasure being able to hang out with them while they're doing virtual schooling. There are so many things we have to be thankful for. <i>However</i>, I will say that being at home has caused me to buy so many more things online than I normally would have. For those of you that are interested, I've put together a bunch of pages listing out the things I've bought and want to buy for myself, our children, our friends, and our family. I hope someone out there can benefit from it!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.myothereight.com/p/quick-links-to-things-i-recommend-or.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">Wish Lists and Recommendations</span></a></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><u>The top 3 things I've bought during the pandemic:</u></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3UxWtcl" target="_blank"><b>Cat Crimes</b></a> - This is a hilarious and fun game that I play with C. She and I spent a good two hours playing it the other day and it was so much fun. I love these types of brain teasers and I felt like it challenged her in a new and exciting way.</blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: left;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07616B2NS&asins=B07616B2NS&linkId=391779b7d7231ef0df5fccfced5f9f79&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> </p></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://amzn.to/3X67Tpl" target="_blank">Shark Bite</a></b> - This reminds me of that childhood fishing game that we all know and love. However, there's a twist to this one. At random times the shark will jump up and 'bite'! It's sudden enough to make you get startled, but even N love to play it now (the first few times he was a little scared). </div></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07NJ2YH2X&asins=B07NJ2YH2X&linkId=53fed3e96961a28deebcb63b0b2dcf1a&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div></blockquote></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://amzn.to/3TENxka" target="_blank">Rose Gold Desk Organizer Set</a></b> - If you know me, and are also a Virgo, let me tell you that this should not be a surprise. As soon as we started working from home I knew I needed something to keep all the stuff on my desk organized. And to top it off, this sht is rose gold?! If I could buy multiple sets I would <3</div></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B08F3W8176&asins=B08F3W8176&linkId=17b1397849d500e03464c1ae326cc20e&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><b>Bonus pandemic-related purchases:</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><div style="text-align: left;">Can I just add that purchasing <a href="https://amzn.to/3AkChCy" target="_blank">these lanyards</a> was such a simple idea, but one that has saved us countless times? Every time we walk out the door we all have our masks on lanyards and it helps keep them handy without us having to dig through our pockets or bags to put them on (which also decreases the likelihood that we touch the front of the mask). It also means our masks don't get lost easily and there's no chance of them accidentally falling on the ground. </div></div></blockquote><div><div><br /></div><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B08GY7ZRPD&asins=B08GY7ZRPD&linkId=04073d61c277d1f521e445dd8a8c80e7&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div></blockquote></div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;">And while I'm at it, can I just say that having a <a href="https://amzn.to/3V0QnkE" target="_blank"><b>bluetooth wireless headset</b></a> has been a game changer? Seriously, I can now stand up, pace, get the laundry into the dryer, and refill my water bottle...all while staying on endless conference calls and contributing to the discussion. I'm no longer tethered to my desk, I don't have to wait until the next break to stretch my legs and back. It is amazing. NOTE: please don't forget to put yourself on mute if you're doing anything you do not want your co-workers to hear!</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereigh09-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B086L8WF4D&asins=B086L8WF4D&linkId=e1078a7b3a3100cf9d4a471e0ff2fcc9&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div></blockquote></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-82553271174237209272021-02-09T06:46:00.002-05:002021-02-28T15:21:00.649-05:00Daydreaming<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCeyRthCIsw88dv199rGOSWeQSXS6ySsFzcx_p0KwtazOMmeLbxOkxLo0M0eJDXfORGCvYNsT8ra-4KfN8n3gfhNg6IiatQVP1V5Iu0rqET-pMGlMVXzEBj8S-5L6UauG4iqwQbzmWlIZ/s2048/IMG_4727.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCeyRthCIsw88dv199rGOSWeQSXS6ySsFzcx_p0KwtazOMmeLbxOkxLo0M0eJDXfORGCvYNsT8ra-4KfN8n3gfhNg6IiatQVP1V5Iu0rqET-pMGlMVXzEBj8S-5L6UauG4iqwQbzmWlIZ/w240-h320/IMG_4727.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Placid, NY</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>There are many things that I want to do for my family. Ensure my children know they are loved, try to keep them happy, give them the things they deserve because they are amazing, and set them up well for the future. Lately, J and I have been talking about purchasing a second home. It would be a dream that we have chased for a while now, something that I never thought would be possible. <div><br /></div><div>Ideally we would want something on the water, a house where we could escape to. Since this would be a secondary home and not a primary, we wanted a place that would help us feel relaxed, more connected to nature, and give the kids a different experience from what they currently know. Since time is on our side, we can afford to be a bit picky. Here was our thought process as we tried to put together a list of wants:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Waterfront</li><ul><li>While an <b>oceanfront </b>property sounds great, we don't want to deal with saltwater and the effects it has on a house and landscaping. In addition, we don't really enjoy swimming in the ocean. The waves are too much for the kids (and me too, tbh), and I don't really like swimming in saltwater. Last but not least, we could not afford the type of oceanfront house we want (that's a big strike lol).</li><li>Since we ruled out oceanfront, we started thinking about <b>lakefront</b>. There were many benefits to going with a lake, in our minds. It's freshwater, depending on the lake there's better ability to keep track of the kids, there can be a great sense of community surrounding a lake depending on the HOA and other property owners, and it's calmer.</li></ul><li>At least 3-4 bedrooms to fit our families and friends comfortably</li><li>Not in a flood zone</li><li>No septic tank - I know a few people who have houses with septic tanks, and while it isn't our first choice, they have no complaints. We just don't want to deal with it</li><li>No oil heat - Similar to the septic tank idea, there's too much risk that the tank (especially if it's underground) starts to leak and/or we may have to dig it up some time in the future</li><li>No well water - change my mind</li><li>Community Amenities - ideally the community would have tennis courts, a playground, and stuff for the kids to do when they aren't jumping in the lake</li></ul><div>Wish us luck! </div></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-60158706582278341072021-01-11T17:29:00.002-05:002021-01-11T17:29:39.661-05:00Falling in Love with my Peloton<p>To be honest, after the first few days of owning my Peloton I began to feel overwhelmed. I didn't know where to start or what to do and all of the acronyms and chatter in the FB forums were making me nervous. I found a really helpful schedule based on different Peloton Programs that was a great starting point that I've loosely used over the past 4 weeks. In case you're wondering, it combined the Crush Your Core, Discover Your Power Zones, and Total Strength with Andy into one 4-week schedule. It was great to have a plan, but I definitely didn't have 60 minutes to work out every day. I'm creating a modified version of the plan based on what I actually did which I'll share in a future post.</p><p> Going forward, I plan on following a weekly schedule with 2 days dedicated to strength, 3 days where I have a long ride, 1 day where I incorporate a ride like Bike Bootcamp, Tabata, or HIIT, and 1 day where I focus on yoga and something off the bike. My knees have always given me trouble, so I'm hoping this will keep them happy. Let me know what you think! </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyeoAo3bg_9fiqXQ-c9my8jKft8YzFdJ6L6M22Mu2uNygVO3b37buGiNQgzO9LLrSwzdPnpqC8B52uDaOyJzvK9mVpXAYlJNH7rWWlwvayt-Zh1lZUmkBCpy6ZKwROp6wETJg9XMmIDFw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="750" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyeoAo3bg_9fiqXQ-c9my8jKft8YzFdJ6L6M22Mu2uNygVO3b37buGiNQgzO9LLrSwzdPnpqC8B52uDaOyJzvK9mVpXAYlJNH7rWWlwvayt-Zh1lZUmkBCpy6ZKwROp6wETJg9XMmIDFw/" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KScVYgcj69O6_FE-uCjBZTmhbsxkxp6_/view?usp=sharing">FREE Weekly Peloton Schedule</a>)</p><p><br /></p><p><i>Please note: I am not a doctor. You should consult your physician before starting any exercise program. This is just what I plan on using as my weekly schedule.</i></p><p></p>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-32752541372799300782021-01-06T21:21:00.005-05:002021-01-08T10:52:05.936-05:00On my path to a healthier lifestyle - Peloton Bike + Love Affair, One Month In<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_H8kE756Rzs0SV73c1nBK9vzi7j6S39LRlg5pMEM_v9lJrY6ak3v7LNFAaiLEAOPrtJzq8-jZCmtaWhUqt1Cd-WdoiWroaLw49Rl1UdsgsoCknhs8CVzaYEHks7Rq0tRWChRYYDj1P0p/s2048/IMG_2779.jpg" style="clear: left; display: block; float: left; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_H8kE756Rzs0SV73c1nBK9vzi7j6S39LRlg5pMEM_v9lJrY6ak3v7LNFAaiLEAOPrtJzq8-jZCmtaWhUqt1Cd-WdoiWroaLw49Rl1UdsgsoCknhs8CVzaYEHks7Rq0tRWChRYYDj1P0p/s320/IMG_2779.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Back in September, right before turning 39, I committed to taking better care of myself. After a week or two of petitioning the hubby, I bit the bullet and placed my order for a <a href="https://www.onepeloton.com/" target="_blank">Peloton</a>. I had to wait until just before Thanksgiving for delivery, but at 47 days post-delivery I am loving it! I'll post updates every once in a while in case that changes.</div><div><br /></div><div>For anyone ready to make a purchase, here's my referral code (4Z85KM) for $100 off accessories at purchase. I'll also receive up to $100 off my next purchase at the <a href="https://apparel.onepeloton.com/">Peloton Boutique</a>. Here are a few things I'm eyeing:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0717/4701/products/20201005_ECOM_UMI_AKIYOSHI_PRE_SPRING_0105_grande.jpg?v=1606840852" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="420" height="200" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0717/4701/products/20201005_ECOM_UMI_AKIYOSHI_PRE_SPRING_0105_grande.jpg?v=1606840852" width="140" /></a></div><div><div><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0717/4701/products/20201009_ANDY_SPEER_ECOM_HOLIDAY_1_0082_grande.jpg?v=1606787518" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="420" height="200" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0717/4701/products/20201009_ANDY_SPEER_ECOM_HOLIDAY_1_0082_grande.jpg?v=1606787518" width="140" /></a><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0717/4701/products/20201008_ADITI_SHAH_ECOM_HOLIDAY_1_0050_grande.jpg?v=1606777819" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="420" height="200" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0717/4701/products/20201008_ADITI_SHAH_ECOM_HOLIDAY_1_0050_grande.jpg?v=1606777819" width="140" /></a><br /><br /></div><div>At any rate, before taking delivery I was going crazy reading FB forums and <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/pelotoncycle">Reddit </a>for tips and suggestions. There is a wealth of information out there, but here are a couple links I found extra helpful:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.worklifekids.com/blog/2018/10/1/how-to-make-sure-your-peloton-does-not-become-a-2000-clothesnbsphanger">The Peloton newbie onboarding guide — WORK LIFE KIDS</a></li><li><a href="https://www.mypursestrings.com/peloton-accessories/">Must-Have Accessories for the New Peloton Rider (or App User) - MyPurseStrings.com</a></li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>Based on the amazing information I found, I created a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K5E4k6gkB9n1ovvK6eBMl3YwbWVolF01/view?usp=sharing">delivery day checklist</a> which helped me remember all the questions I had to ask and things I wanted to do before the delivery men left. My experience was awesome. They wore masks the whole time, were respectful and patient with my questions, and told me they would be in the area for a while if I had additional questions or needed them to stop by for anything. They were also encouraging when it took me FOREVER to clip in and out. I was grateful for their positive demeanor. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0f0RiVHQgOcO-jlKy-yaarCf1ENDTa3mQ2FBXsL7gWaUGaMYQZ8jOWULnuwrZH3Rh7406X0mRdsTudqpmqqV8q-a1b7YPWH0wgNrBjPJyBC0LT5OCsA3xIRrnrXYh4rp02vDrzrxan_wY/s764/DeliveryDayChecklistPreview.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="764" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0f0RiVHQgOcO-jlKy-yaarCf1ENDTa3mQ2FBXsL7gWaUGaMYQZ8jOWULnuwrZH3Rh7406X0mRdsTudqpmqqV8q-a1b7YPWH0wgNrBjPJyBC0LT5OCsA3xIRrnrXYh4rp02vDrzrxan_wY/w400-h300/DeliveryDayChecklistPreview.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K5E4k6gkB9n1ovvK6eBMl3YwbWVolF01/view?usp=sharing"><b>Free Peloton Delivery Day checklist here!!</b></a>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_dPoUX9W6dw-5B9RnD0rHmYGXLKMiBCnFr6HoaMs7J2BP_QVGW-YEji5rj62WhEsGRdVus6c7LrDmx7Tlz5jTnPPXVCi9hjaakVp4YYK-0UQXndsJNkxX_ayui3eyZfzjAws2Bc4VnCI/s2048/IMG_2780.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_dPoUX9W6dw-5B9RnD0rHmYGXLKMiBCnFr6HoaMs7J2BP_QVGW-YEji5rj62WhEsGRdVus6c7LrDmx7Tlz5jTnPPXVCi9hjaakVp4YYK-0UQXndsJNkxX_ayui3eyZfzjAws2Bc4VnCI/s320/IMG_2780.jpg" width="320" /></a>Before I received the Peloton I also purchased a portable fan (see below) to attach to the handlebars. I HIGHLY suggested you get one, too! It's quiet, powerful, and even has a LED light that you can turn on and off. I talk a little more about it <a href="https://www.myothereight.com/p/exercise.html">here </a>and also tell you about another useful way we use this fan!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereight-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B086LCY246&asins=B086LCY246&linkId=1d6b7e6370905b4e4db84acb94b84552&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That's it for now, but I'll update again soon!</div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-91439936965930071732021-01-04T13:04:00.003-05:002021-01-04T22:37:19.668-05:00Starting over in 2021<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtfBnzDaUYPqfcFD56eqb5lbCt1345qp3XDRb5XmgLD7e22hgNnaOlNQwDAVHofj5CgeIASiNJyHTohSZH0taYTWBeDDXHK3h8QR0JgGsvbqZRCXsa0ZuR63wr_Jq7i0SaoAkzQxFOS0e/s2048/IMG_0843.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtfBnzDaUYPqfcFD56eqb5lbCt1345qp3XDRb5XmgLD7e22hgNnaOlNQwDAVHofj5CgeIASiNJyHTohSZH0taYTWBeDDXHK3h8QR0JgGsvbqZRCXsa0ZuR63wr_Jq7i0SaoAkzQxFOS0e/s320/IMG_0843.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I won't be so bold as to say what 2021 will or won't be, but I have many hopes that this is a new beginning. As a full-time working mom of 3 children (ages 9-, 6-, and 5-years old), this past year has been challenging. It was filled with more uncertainty, stress, anxiety, tears, and frustration than we have ever experienced. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">BUT...we also found pockets of strength, laughter, love, and joy. There may have been times where our gratitude was quickly met by guilt, where we felt unrelentingly sad behind our smiles, but... well I don't really know how to finish that sentence. We are taking things a day at a time and trying to find a reason to smile as often as possible:</span></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Not spending ~3 hours a day commuting to work</span></li><li><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Consistently eating meals together as a family - never would have happened before (see #1)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Building stronger relationships with colleagues and finally being able to attend virtual happy hours (see #1)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A slower pace of life that isn't filled with running to and from extracurricular activities</span></li><li><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Better quality time as a family</span></li><li><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Reconnecting with friends and family in new and meaningful ways</span></li><li><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Finding new resources to keep our children learning and moving forward</span></li></ol><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I'll share with you what we've learned and any other tidbits we use to fill this newfound time whether it's together as a family or apart as individuals. I'm glad you've found your way here!</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-76706905737404453872016-03-06T08:03:00.000-05:002021-01-04T17:28:07.399-05:002016 Already?!My how time flies. A lot has happened since the last time I've posted. It's been a busy 3 years and I cannot believe what's in store for us!<br /><br />We went from having 1 adorable daughter (C), to having 3! Our second daughter (A) was born in 2014, and our son (N) was born in 2015. We certainly have our hands full! It's been such an amazing journey with them so far. Which left little room for things like "me" time and I could forget about my hobbies. Life has been dedicated to my little munchkins. <br /><br />To accommodate our growing family, we've been doing some work on the house. I won't talk about it here, but we are very much looking forward to the next few months. One of many things that I am getting increasingly excited about is a new kitchen appliance...a convection steam oven! We haven't bought it yet, but I told the cabinet designer to use the Miele DGC 6800 XL PureLine M Touch Combi-Steam Oven as her guide.<br /><br />I'm a little late in the game, as I haven't discovered these combi ovens until very recently but I've been in lust ever since. I did notice, however, that it isn't easy to find recipe books and resources about convection steam cooking. So I'll selfishly use this blog to keep all of that information on hand and will document my results once the oven is installed! That won't happen for another few months, but I want to be prepared to use it right away :D<br /><br />Here's what I've found so far:<br /><br /><div><ul><li>Straight from the source: </li><ul><li>A <a href="http://mieleusa.com/mielerecipe/recipe_list.asp" target="_blank">recipe list </a>on Miele's website that allows you to filter by product. Right now there are 45 recipes specifically for the combi-steam oven</li><li>I also found a <a href="http://www.mielemarineusa.com/media/aktion/marine/Combi_DGC_5000_XL.pdf" target="_blank">cookbook</a> from Miele that is well over 200 pages long! There's a pretty useful looking intro section, and then the book is divided into: Baking, Soups and Starters, Casseroles and Savory Bakes, Vegetarian Dishes, Savory Treats, Meat, Fish, Sides, Desserts, and Bottling and More. I only just started reading through this book and cannot wait to start tagging recipes to try.</li></ul><li>I've heard the <a href="http://modernistcuisine.com/" target="_blank">Modernist Cuisine</a> (affiliate link) cookbook has a section on combi ovens but I don't have the book so I'll rely on you to tell me if it's any good ;) <br /><br /> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=0982761015&asins=0982761015&linkId=bfd87f1ef7334b3d833b31e3a03418c7&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=myothereight-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=0982761007&asins=0982761007&linkId=51a4f653c7232328738d3ac73e60ffd1&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
</li></ul><div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><div><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: Some content on this blog may contain affiliate links. For instance, I participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.</span></i></div><div><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div><div><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">If you decide to take action (yay!) after clicking one of these links, it will help me earn funds for additional gardening / cooking / baking / sewing / crafting / self-care / kid-related needs that I'll tell you all about right here on this site. I also promise to give you my true, personal opinion at all times...the good, the bad, and the ugly!</span></i></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Please feel free to comment with any more cookbooks, recipes, or resources you've found. I'd very much appreciate them and will keep adding to my list!
</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-25699780698251370182013-01-22T08:00:00.000-05:002022-11-15T18:17:47.485-05:00My new machine!As previously mentioned, I have decided to take up sewing in the winter months. I am just a beginner, so please bear with me! I am in no way perfect, as you already know..keep that in mind! To start, I'll go over the tools I've collected...<br /><br /><a name="more"></a><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></div><br /><b>Sewing Machine</b>: <a href="https://amzn.to/3AisI7h" target="_blank">Brother CS6000i</a> (affiliate link)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71WYLMoKDDS._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71WYLMoKDDS._SL1500_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>After looking through a bunch of machines on Amazon that were in my price range, I decided to buy a Brother machine. Originally I was looking for a Singer because that's the one my parents currently have and I know it's one of those brands that has always enjoyed a solid reputation. However, the reviews on Amazon let me to believe that Singer's quality has decreased as of late. I had also heard great things about this machine and liked the amount of "stuff" that came with it: "60 built in stitches, over-sized table attachment, easy bobbin winding, Walking foot, Spring action quilting foot, Overcasting foot, Monogramming foot, Zipper foot, Zigzag foot, Blind stitch foot, Buttonhole foot, Button fitting foot", and the usual seam ripper, etc etc. I've used the machine a couple of times and so far have not had any issues, although I have the same complaint as others that the needle threading mechanism doesn't seem to work.<br /><br />
<b>Scissors</b>: <a href="https://amzn.to/3AiKwPE" target="_blank">Gingher Spring Action 8-inch Scissors</a> (affiliate link)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000YZAPGK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000YZAPGK&linkCode=as2&tag=myothereight-20&linkId=706303ae150762cc485e112f88b1fe70" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B000YZAPGK&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=myothereight-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=myothereight-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B000YZAPGK" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /></div><br />Okay, so I haven't used these scissors yet because my mom just gave me a pair of old Fiskars scissors that I had used for fabric back in middle school. But I am anxious to use these scissors for the spring action that is supposed to alleviate some of the fatigue caused by all the cutting I'm about to be doing ;)<br /><br />
<b>Cutting Mat:</b> <a href="https://amzn.to/3UG25kS" target="_blank">OLFA 18x24 Gridded Cutting Mat</a> (affiliate link)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07V6RZQC7/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07V6RZQC7&linkCode=as2&tag=myothereight-20&linkId=c2349e17107843afe48dd26a49c5a88a" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B07V6RZQC7&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=myothereight-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=myothereight-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B07V6RZQC7" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /></div>I bought a cutting mat for my...<br />
<br />Rotary Cutter: Gingher 45mm Rotary Cutter<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/413GTvNNv9L._SY450_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/413GTvNNv9L._SY450_.jpg" width="139" /></a></div><br />I know I got a bit carried away here, but some of these were Christmas presents from my family and since I didn't know what else to ask for, I thought these would be fairly practical gifts that I will be using in the future. <br /><br />Other things I have:<br /><a href="https://amzn.to/3X321ND" target="_blank">Fiskars 3-Inch-by-18-inch Clear Acrylic Quilting Ruler</a> (affiliate link)<br /><a href="https://amzn.to/3WXNUJo" target="_blank">Dritz Sewing Gauge - 6 Inch</a> (affiliate link)<br /><br />And, of course, needles and thread.<br /><br />It's enough to get me started!<br /><br />Up next, my first project...a purse organizer!<br /><br /><div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><div><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: Some content on this blog may contain affiliate links. For instance, I participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.</span></i></div><div><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div><div><i><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">If you decide to take action (yay!) after clicking one of these links, it will help me earn funds for additional gardening / cooking / baking / sewing / crafting / self-care / kid-related needs that I'll tell you all about right here on this site. I also promise to give you my true, personal opinion at all times...the good, the bad, and the ugly!</span></i></div></div></div></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-91445048326870217782012-12-27T08:00:00.000-05:002021-01-04T15:24:36.892-05:00I know, it's been a whileMy sincerest apologies, reader(s)! It has been a busy summer and I have been lax in my blogging duties. Since my last post, I was able to gather a few more petite peppers, before <strike>Hurricane</strike> Superstorm Sandy hit. I do have to say that the scallions grew fairly nicely and it looked like the garlic was well on its way until the storm. Unfortunately, the beets didn't have a chance to develop fully. My lettuce mix grew quite well, but were promptly eaten up, probably by bunnies. The broccoli was looking really good until Sandy came and destroyed it. I also think I should have planted it earlier in the season (well, duh, I was starting the garden in July!).<br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><br />For next year, I (aka J) want to put up a nice trellis for the squash and pumpkin to climb. I think I'll also do more of the petite peppers and perhaps try out the beets again. Maybe I'll put a little netting around the lettuce mix and see if I can get it to grow a little fuller. I would like to try the broccoli again, too, and the garlic if we get another share in the organic farm. I'm excited to try again next year and perhaps keep things a little more orderly with the climbing plants in a separate box that has a trellis to climb.<br /><br /><br />What will I be doing during the winter months, you ask? I have decided to take up sewing!! My last attempt at sewing was back when I was in middle school. I took a great class at one of our local fabric stores and made a pillow (which J uses today), a skirt, and a pair of shorts that never got finished. Recently, I went back to the same store to take another intro class and got bitten by the sewing bug again! This time, I hope I'm able to continue learning and eventually move on to sewing more garments. Stay tuned!My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-73314260144857116452012-10-04T17:00:00.000-04:002021-01-04T13:52:43.914-05:00Harvest time!<div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So you've seen the gigantic summer squash that I was able to pluck from my garden. The vine that traveled across the garden and over the fence of the opposite side was actually pumpkin! I discovered this when I was cleaning up and decided (stupidly) to cut up the vine running through the middle of the garden. I was cutting off dead/decaying vines and got a little shear-happy...and really should not have cut this little baby off :(</div><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJAWbZ7rw8RdwnW9eMns4ZIYfT-RNL9kD_sXWbb71fh8OiZ7cfrLCEgF3EDPKba8bZSBlLVkoktEiI8HH2VQpaoySFgSZjqnpt3c5zCqr_5L3El3zrvth2HahXwNt3OoF07TdQnHkyHqc/s400/IMG_1464.JPG" width="300" /><br /><br /><br />It's nowhere near ready, I know. But it's so cute and I seriously got so excited by it that I had to have it. Ugh maybe I'm too impatient for a garden! <br /><br />I also used the estimated days to maturity for the petite bell peppers in order to determine that I can start plucking those! I got four beauties ...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NyLohz2aaHsx-pnET-cWm3O87Vk7maQ8vVuXweoQYLbGAcT8veKfiWhDLalTWeahVi5I0gujVGp8JiWyoBaUKntGMU6B4W_b57lvcaCQek_p-nr5ZATHCOQRURxDWFe8xv2DH2w2mHXg/s1600/IMG_1463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NyLohz2aaHsx-pnET-cWm3O87Vk7maQ8vVuXweoQYLbGAcT8veKfiWhDLalTWeahVi5I0gujVGp8JiWyoBaUKntGMU6B4W_b57lvcaCQek_p-nr5ZATHCOQRURxDWFe8xv2DH2w2mHXg/s320/IMG_1463.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />So here's what I got from the garden so far...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2xdmMf-ysJk9o6NTn8sl3gZBUm1MTP66U1qoRKwOHMG-R7q0ubrYE7cqgQarnHECfCDoMOQ-m0GPER-CLudmJD99gHjm4T3opeTbqPKW9fKcI0UKd1nXmgBrQ6AXR6v9fZcchw1IwfX3/s1600/IMG_1462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2xdmMf-ysJk9o6NTn8sl3gZBUm1MTP66U1qoRKwOHMG-R7q0ubrYE7cqgQarnHECfCDoMOQ-m0GPER-CLudmJD99gHjm4T3opeTbqPKW9fKcI0UKd1nXmgBrQ6AXR6v9fZcchw1IwfX3/s320/IMG_1462.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Cool, right? <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-15734178888698757312012-10-02T08:30:00.000-04:002021-01-04T13:52:43.931-05:00Pickling Radishes and Peppers<div class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnPRkicgM2m5ZgbeTJWwiOPZYsIF-hfjwK3EyEiG7eEbbK7J2RzVP3lTYU6esSYJdNvtWajahyphenhyphen-FykA553jGwnC9JpY3IFn515RYh60mmZyYCasve64Z94g5sjT0Anu4sf5Chzh74boLe/s1600/photo-716332.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5794525565657605106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnPRkicgM2m5ZgbeTJWwiOPZYsIF-hfjwK3EyEiG7eEbbK7J2RzVP3lTYU6esSYJdNvtWajahyphenhyphen-FykA553jGwnC9JpY3IFn515RYh60mmZyYCasve64Z94g5sjT0Anu4sf5Chzh74boLe/s320/photo-716332.JPG" /></a></div>We just got lots of radishes from our organic farm share and I really didn't know what to do with them. So I thought I'd try my hand at a very quick and simple radish pickling <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/recipes/2011/07/pickled-radishes">recipe </a>from Bon Appétit. I've never canned or pickled, so I had to go with an old spaghetti sauce jar for this one. The 2 cups of vinegar didn't fit in the jar, so it was about 1 and 7/8 c of vinegar. We also got some HUGE cloves of garlic from the farm share so we only put 7 of those in instead of 10 (the recipe said '10 cup garlic cloves' but I think that was a mistake). I also stuck a couple petite bell peppers in there that I picked from my garden for fun :)<br /><br />So excited! Will let you know how they are in 3 days...My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-14469774296184304402012-09-25T07:11:00.000-04:002021-01-04T13:52:43.948-05:00Closing out the summer with a little smokeRecently J bought a smoker. I will post a little more on the modifications he did to it in a later post, but I just wanted to say in the past month we have really enjoyed using this little baby!<br /><br />So far we've done two pork butts, two chickens, and a nice hunk of salmon. Wow there is nothing like smoking your own salmon! And all I have to say is brining is awesome. Especially for the chicken and salmon that we did. <br /><br />A few teaser pics :)<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6V_sW46lJOmV6YL7B1SrzJ0XUzxjkpkaLZJxNqWDqEOb4QqZ8dP-uN6kN-n7nH1IRVrg2KkIKpj24sPnKIgBjtOb_tBOTKnAY30Tw7NPgOEVis96PI1CITAeWntguRabr-7chVrNZVzB/s640/blogger-image-56284849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6V_sW46lJOmV6YL7B1SrzJ0XUzxjkpkaLZJxNqWDqEOb4QqZ8dP-uN6kN-n7nH1IRVrg2KkIKpj24sPnKIgBjtOb_tBOTKnAY30Tw7NPgOEVis96PI1CITAeWntguRabr-7chVrNZVzB/s640/blogger-image-56284849.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3IgLtucUihSQgGSXJwH9k5G6iiS2DcLOlYY5wVsuvVeNqDip0pbHDY9SUPgGAUd2gEbRoaBcHSWTnAyuWE8VPAYm2PkncEoBCGJddZgeKviSS2N067TyM7bMtiF3sGJi9LueG4xVUnp2/s640/blogger-image--881218404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3IgLtucUihSQgGSXJwH9k5G6iiS2DcLOlYY5wVsuvVeNqDip0pbHDY9SUPgGAUd2gEbRoaBcHSWTnAyuWE8VPAYm2PkncEoBCGJddZgeKviSS2N067TyM7bMtiF3sGJi9LueG4xVUnp2/s640/blogger-image--881218404.jpg" /></a></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-30334225844483734302012-09-10T16:41:00.000-04:002021-01-04T13:52:43.969-05:00Whoa!Guess what I picked in the garden yesterday! Stay tuned...<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsizpvlrbvqac7yb_VEalU8NNOd_-mR_q44njXJV6zWi-0-S1F_qOqJRb0CkExbXV-aA04hxp0IJAzSibkJz85-0cOBsK01mNn8HtHHGKIFbbYeuprWyk8vieFxTOPEjlkz-oP4YyCuyA/s640/blogger-image--659148285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsizpvlrbvqac7yb_VEalU8NNOd_-mR_q44njXJV6zWi-0-S1F_qOqJRb0CkExbXV-aA04hxp0IJAzSibkJz85-0cOBsK01mNn8HtHHGKIFbbYeuprWyk8vieFxTOPEjlkz-oP4YyCuyA/s640/blogger-image--659148285.jpg" /></a></div>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-90273298654095305972012-09-04T09:00:00.000-04:002021-01-04T13:52:44.000-05:00Finding Humor in My PlantsIt's been a while since I've written, but boy have things changed! I was traveling for a few weeks and didn't have much time for my plants. Well it seems like a certain few squash plants decided to take over my garden. Besides the squash, the following are still growing: beets, lettuce mix, scallion (which we transplanted), and peppers. <br /><br />I can see squash and I can see peppers, can you?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87BtoMHEP0aiNEctRkdKA2J4leW5s9EP3i25y8GNasGqpglPpMKRBHqgn48JHL1bqHESpj7f2LohP3eIYqAq2Pntn2zPpyWvBs9iDO-9gl8VKNXYDEU5-eulHLEPJayoCc-TFKauotLtd/s1600/IMG_1394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87BtoMHEP0aiNEctRkdKA2J4leW5s9EP3i25y8GNasGqpglPpMKRBHqgn48JHL1bqHESpj7f2LohP3eIYqAq2Pntn2zPpyWvBs9iDO-9gl8VKNXYDEU5-eulHLEPJayoCc-TFKauotLtd/s320/IMG_1394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmz4WZ4ReFHCpQEki0csnvJrT8Qdt_yaLndR7Mhoc-C_W-42RYCZS8gt7sK7hInAK-nYkLFQI1tDv0OZ-UXWcKxhlJmvGWweK84bkLLHHZwfrqm9KZa0ynxslyEho-ufxhujS_drZabyYZ/s1600/IMG_1406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />Just kidding, there's a better picture that's coming..I promise.<br />BUT the above picture basically demonstrates how crazy my squash plant has become. Did you find the vine that has crawled across the garden and up the fence on the opposite side? It went between the wooden posts and the green fencing and climbed up to the top! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmz4WZ4ReFHCpQEki0csnvJrT8Qdt_yaLndR7Mhoc-C_W-42RYCZS8gt7sK7hInAK-nYkLFQI1tDv0OZ-UXWcKxhlJmvGWweK84bkLLHHZwfrqm9KZa0ynxslyEho-ufxhujS_drZabyYZ/s1600/IMG_1406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmz4WZ4ReFHCpQEki0csnvJrT8Qdt_yaLndR7Mhoc-C_W-42RYCZS8gt7sK7hInAK-nYkLFQI1tDv0OZ-UXWcKxhlJmvGWweK84bkLLHHZwfrqm9KZa0ynxslyEho-ufxhujS_drZabyYZ/s320/IMG_1406.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Monster Squash decided to strangle a few things along the way...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSRBWgZc9K3-bgHYKsT4qiS1kehT8uLa4RFr3pSFNN_3AXmOJQlHqIIZdd_ysWCDVvdQyVsuDq49nGe8OI-yObXSGKDC4i5sBxxewiMdm4R8eCz1HG3-k0CqGKba9EMDxxwwRzEKEbymy/s1600/IMG_1404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSRBWgZc9K3-bgHYKsT4qiS1kehT8uLa4RFr3pSFNN_3AXmOJQlHqIIZdd_ysWCDVvdQyVsuDq49nGe8OI-yObXSGKDC4i5sBxxewiMdm4R8eCz1HG3-k0CqGKba9EMDxxwwRzEKEbymy/s320/IMG_1404.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmry2eg5GRdEXUbdpIeonhgA4sEpF42Gh3Cq_Jm61BcSPCLBrCgFFe9CrFlusAgusL8011OaLNBf25p9s9mb1FVvsi3BTUW_bxRqByfNX2gK702N1qK3r7p6kFshow8NPjWdUMRPArYHsD/s1600/IMG_1405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmry2eg5GRdEXUbdpIeonhgA4sEpF42Gh3Cq_Jm61BcSPCLBrCgFFe9CrFlusAgusL8011OaLNBf25p9s9mb1FVvsi3BTUW_bxRqByfNX2gK702N1qK3r7p6kFshow8NPjWdUMRPArYHsD/s320/IMG_1405.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In my mind, he (yes, he) is trying to take revenge on the weeds that are stealing nutrients from his friends :) It's hilarious how it looks like one little tendril made such a long trip just to strangle that little puff of grass. Yes, I will weed the area around the boxes asap, Mr Squash.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Beautiful squash blossom</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxxbRFFdbbDT1JKfeh3zNs3FK0dEY4nMypfNyP0XPQsWX78nc7S4Dn4XSYiEhvcelhZtYQi8iCYj1-39_5a0kNtoZ863dOnc_V4zg7q0XmIVtYEsc2jAsZcTDXjWP4kguF_ZNlOOLmXK8/s1600/IMG_1400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxxbRFFdbbDT1JKfeh3zNs3FK0dEY4nMypfNyP0XPQsWX78nc7S4Dn4XSYiEhvcelhZtYQi8iCYj1-39_5a0kNtoZ863dOnc_V4zg7q0XmIVtYEsc2jAsZcTDXjWP4kguF_ZNlOOLmXK8/s320/IMG_1400.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Peppers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRMqk_xySV3tXOG6L-OyTDRjRqtRF2p4YY1vRRt7NyGTMcoxyFoYyqerEGNlfk3dVuIOH4hDfs0JXUeUiJuhr8ZkMWFoYo1ddiyq8Le79LkaTHFBiFmlzjfPEdGABR6M2Dy-zTxO-s18M/s1600/IMG_1396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRMqk_xySV3tXOG6L-OyTDRjRqtRF2p4YY1vRRt7NyGTMcoxyFoYyqerEGNlfk3dVuIOH4hDfs0JXUeUiJuhr8ZkMWFoYo1ddiyq8Le79LkaTHFBiFmlzjfPEdGABR6M2Dy-zTxO-s18M/s320/IMG_1396.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Lettuce screaming, "Get me out of here!"<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdyEQ_gZge29skiZxXxLTrP1t0BQrlfaK2sAcql8XqDkj0EixqnAqw7Dw1W1U9J9NoxGYOzGShp5PUH2pp4_dBSRswi6V-7gj6xRKFAsnXrbsKx8bdcr_qJqKto96fNeHPE9l8OUInpvJS/s1600/IMG_1403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdyEQ_gZge29skiZxXxLTrP1t0BQrlfaK2sAcql8XqDkj0EixqnAqw7Dw1W1U9J9NoxGYOzGShp5PUH2pp4_dBSRswi6V-7gj6xRKFAsnXrbsKx8bdcr_qJqKto96fNeHPE9l8OUInpvJS/s320/IMG_1403.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Beets and squash, pictures from the belly of the beast ;)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgraV-eql9FHvSZoEnBGqqldUUQJ2W_Pc5ow6ZtOxmwMyxQUSGxAUTXCJuO2m-cZC_beNcf2YZifD1xujV5qLxSQF49bcIaip3P_SjLXxSSqqP8LqHmQZHe31BdxFNrFq9Q9iTrB_pq0Yk5/s1600/IMG_1402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgraV-eql9FHvSZoEnBGqqldUUQJ2W_Pc5ow6ZtOxmwMyxQUSGxAUTXCJuO2m-cZC_beNcf2YZifD1xujV5qLxSQF49bcIaip3P_SjLXxSSqqP8LqHmQZHe31BdxFNrFq9Q9iTrB_pq0Yk5/s320/IMG_1402.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bzi216Ljs9tq9wT_Dh1sPcoQk0ZuzcJBhwdwGD-FapOP9jNQwecoGx8I67GX1ySnPNDmNkXTWZQuk_dfTikJQxfHaFeV4gxeFkXnzk261lCHT6f1PPuWK0YrEfd069n_VLvRutFJU46m/s1600/IMG_1401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bzi216Ljs9tq9wT_Dh1sPcoQk0ZuzcJBhwdwGD-FapOP9jNQwecoGx8I67GX1ySnPNDmNkXTWZQuk_dfTikJQxfHaFeV4gxeFkXnzk261lCHT6f1PPuWK0YrEfd069n_VLvRutFJU46m/s320/IMG_1401.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Next year we will definitely plant the squash in the area of the garden closest to the back of our yard so that these huge leaves don't shade our other plants. And, yes, we will add a trellis for the squash to climb. I might prune a little bit since I think we've reached our limit to how much we're willing to let this plant dominate the garden.<br /><br />Anyone have some good squash blossom recipes?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><br />My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-6756365953704452142012-08-10T17:00:00.000-04:002021-01-04T13:52:44.018-05:00Finished ComposterI cannot believe we were able to finish building the composter today. Well, I shouldn't really say 'we' so much as 'my husband' haha. We threw our first few scraps in there this afternoon :D So it starts!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lZPw3UVais_mU9DcMMfus9t49XHHQgj3BJ48llpvtqVYaKD7o8iwsx_FuCxGn-rS5AKqgzdfKB5PFvyj-AdyFK6hNTqPQAxZt_8XOjL3fZ6D3G9MsNInzb7AcRGF7LiniIiJHDwLOsQ4/s1600/photo+3%281%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lZPw3UVais_mU9DcMMfus9t49XHHQgj3BJ48llpvtqVYaKD7o8iwsx_FuCxGn-rS5AKqgzdfKB5PFvyj-AdyFK6hNTqPQAxZt_8XOjL3fZ6D3G9MsNInzb7AcRGF7LiniIiJHDwLOsQ4/s320/photo+3%281%29.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuyjTFi3CB2QPxnT-oX8GAE_A8A-myQUfnqF4xTWtjdFW88BqV2ZFX2rtiCbym4WQwWp9x-Fm7RyPd0DGIx2PoQcla9z4osVFgS1PASGGL2OC8PsVfgDaB76Nrzz5Z0HFLz1te3qg1yu6/s1600/photo+1%281%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuyjTFi3CB2QPxnT-oX8GAE_A8A-myQUfnqF4xTWtjdFW88BqV2ZFX2rtiCbym4WQwWp9x-Fm7RyPd0DGIx2PoQcla9z4osVFgS1PASGGL2OC8PsVfgDaB76Nrzz5Z0HFLz1te3qg1yu6/s320/photo+1%281%29.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />We're thinking of moving the summer squash/pumpkin plants to another box or area so that we can control it better. I already noticed one of the summer squash plants wrapping little tendrils around the broccoli (I think) in front of it! :\ Oops. haha. We all knew this was coming, didn't we ;) Now let the real fun begin!<br /><br />In other news, something is definitely digging around in our garden. I noticed shards of glass in the box this morning. I also noticed there were holes in the soil of the box and the lettuce looks a little chewed up...I guess we'll see if it survives :\My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5240146333609478206.post-85447520235100071172012-08-06T09:00:00.000-04:002021-01-04T13:52:44.034-05:00Nothing but vegetables (and a few herbs!)"<span><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/garden.html#QDsrCqwU1IrMcM5Y.99" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A vegetable garden in the beginning looks so promising and then after all little by little it grows nothing but vegetables, nothing, nothing but vegetables</a>." </span><span>Gertrude Stein</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <br />I find that quote so hilarious. Oh my do I have an update for you!<br /><br />First up: Basil Cutting<br />I didn't really believe that this little experiment would work, but I've been changing the basil water every day or two and am seeing roots forming (gasp) right where they should be! In the next few days I'll get these babies into the ground. Actually, strike that, I'm thinking of taking the thyme in my SFG, basil that you see here, and some mint my dad just gave me and planting them in the rectangular terracotta flowerpot(s) J bought me. This way I can bring them inside during the winter and have fresh herbs throughout the winter! Wouldn't that be delightful? <br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />My family already loves my mint chocolate chip ice cream and I believe the addition of fresh mint will bring it over the top. Our farm share has given us an enormous amount of basil and I just had to give a huge bagful of the most fragrant basil to my parents. My plans for the basil currently in the fridge is to freeze more of it and then turn some into pesto. Any other ideas?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-AraDTcg4TonTS6AmNfRtA73knNlZzDf6IQI9tL_XzCKBXSOMSwJhyCjFnvIE3GFlSSum-kSFHPW7hKnUluC_xbPzq0AcedhyW1Do4AP8rEWmAhIGYyvWr58YuGw38lXUbhyphenhyphenjBoUEliAl/s1600/IMG_1234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-AraDTcg4TonTS6AmNfRtA73knNlZzDf6IQI9tL_XzCKBXSOMSwJhyCjFnvIE3GFlSSum-kSFHPW7hKnUluC_xbPzq0AcedhyW1Do4AP8rEWmAhIGYyvWr58YuGw38lXUbhyphenhyphenjBoUEliAl/s320/IMG_1234.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwu1Kwr2aYth13zhM4N2q3D371iQVtBSf-4uwWoH7e1LTP1SPf9E5oL_epsdDpce2gYuqWemyODo5wvcjasJD7i1X0f2rYHKG7_IDJgn3ZmwIQ16seZsVu50yvxI2NUpJ3BXHjmk9Dxa5C/s1600/IMG_1233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwu1Kwr2aYth13zhM4N2q3D371iQVtBSf-4uwWoH7e1LTP1SPf9E5oL_epsdDpce2gYuqWemyODo5wvcjasJD7i1X0f2rYHKG7_IDJgn3ZmwIQ16seZsVu50yvxI2NUpJ3BXHjmk9Dxa5C/s320/IMG_1233.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Next on the list: Check out the size of those leaves!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrNGd15o84FL1vjBerac_0mfJLpR2eUOe0sltEK64cHCfa1jbvneV68KgVw6mW-SrIednL4zPU2AEVpZoSQzK2M4skYVF3LFE_iLAaEcMC1SBARTOlEBr_-bXiaIDwM7XNHjT3t28RXhg/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrNGd15o84FL1vjBerac_0mfJLpR2eUOe0sltEK64cHCfa1jbvneV68KgVw6mW-SrIednL4zPU2AEVpZoSQzK2M4skYVF3LFE_iLAaEcMC1SBARTOlEBr_-bXiaIDwM7XNHjT3t28RXhg/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />As I walked over to my garden (I was away over the weekend and hadn't seen it in a couple days) my eyes lit up. Wow. I really should have installed a trellis for the squash and pumpkin. Such is the mistake of an overly enthusiastic newbie. I knew this going in, but as always I forged ahead because if we don't make mistakes, how will we learn? For now I think the summer squash and pumpkin are fine where they are but pretty soon I'll have to think about what to do with them. Perhaps I can carefully transplant them somewhere with a fence they can climb. Hmmm. And it appears the beets are doing well although some of the leaves look a little droopy and sad. There were a few sprouts of the chives popping through under the summer squash leaves, and I think the broccoli is doing quite well! How ignorant was I? <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mysquarefootgarden.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/july-broccoli.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://www.mysquarefootgarden.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/july-broccoli.jpg" title="Courtesy of My Square Foot Garden" width="320" /></a></div><br />I had NO clue what broccoli looked like in the ground until I googled it...check out the awesome picture above from My Square Foot Garden. I'm dreaming about whether my crop will ever be as good. Did you also catch the lettuce in the picture? A few scrawny leaves, but they're making themselves known! This is too exciting.<span> </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72cTp1fdm6B6oCb-c8yUHYlmI_sHxhNox0UfCOpY-kLrrW4DYpUWjFGmMyeLnaX6H-018LWM9MWiCNWO-N-YHNpWFBNdjnTwzNdV2aqjpfT-zJGF6RVwBqC9p4SJNbcZWn-dUQcex5UYO/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72cTp1fdm6B6oCb-c8yUHYlmI_sHxhNox0UfCOpY-kLrrW4DYpUWjFGmMyeLnaX6H-018LWM9MWiCNWO-N-YHNpWFBNdjnTwzNdV2aqjpfT-zJGF6RVwBqC9p4SJNbcZWn-dUQcex5UYO/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Hix5kDi90Vlzy9JTnKI3iza7_UYpKwLvylP1HV_YCN0ttb1BX0Arlc-9aTakopAO6dPu8Ydr4-4CUnPp27pYCu9KpH9wHcSy405Gz199ohdV9QYjGQyQrJWfxruG9MVw3_KyBhDXREhB/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Hix5kDi90Vlzy9JTnKI3iza7_UYpKwLvylP1HV_YCN0ttb1BX0Arlc-9aTakopAO6dPu8Ydr4-4CUnPp27pYCu9KpH9wHcSy405Gz199ohdV9QYjGQyQrJWfxruG9MVw3_KyBhDXREhB/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span><br /></span>My Other Eighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15970219614819333936noreply@blogger.com0