valentine craft and recipes ideas

15 January 2014

Valentine’s Day is a month away! Here is a gallery of past Valentine ideas from around here – click on the picture to take you to the post:
quick valentine banner

soft sugar cookies



valentine hutch

easiest valentine wreath

all you need is love sign

sucker valentines

love you scrabble art

pink puffy heart wreath_thumb[3]

valentine fortune cookies_thumb[4]

simple valentine printable
It’s kind of fun remembering…do you have a favorite? Those sugar cookies are looking SO good right now.
Happy Wednesday ~
signature

913 comments

  1. I did those sucker valentines last year for my son at preschool. They were a huge hit. Love all of your ideas. Thanks for sharing.

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  2. Just seeing that pic of the sugar cookies made me get my grocery list out of my purse and add the ingredients to it so I can make them this weekend! And I'm definitely making one of those "all you need is love" signs this year. Thanks for the year round inspiration I get from your blog! :)

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  3. cute ideas for Valentine's Day. Btw, I like the new comment section so much easier to use : )

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  4. Oh my goodness! The kids all lined up with their dressed up snow people is too much!! That is one priceless pic!!
    Happy Easter!

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  5. Hillarypayton1/16/14, 8:22 PM

    doing this right now but in stead of leaves, little icy branches i had from two christmases ago! thanks for this awesome idea!

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  6. Thanks for this, Melissa!  I needed it, and am going to post on my facebook!

    Blessings,
    Lisa

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  7. I got a Nikon D90 last December and I love it even though I am still learning about it.

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  8. Great post-sounds like my house sometimes! Just got onto my daughters tonight for leaving coats on the floor(again!) and put them in the donation box. Told them we would give them to someone who will appreciate them. Harsh, I know...but have to do something!
    We have 6 and are not mentioning at all Santa this year, for the first time ever.  We will get them one item each as a want,  anything else will be a need, or a treat. Last year the biggest hit under the tree was each kid got their favorite cereal, a giant box all wrapped up. We don't buy sugary cereals so this is a special treat. They went crazy and it is a pretty cheap gift!

    I am going to get that book that was mentioned, can't wait to read it!

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  9. That is wonderful! She is so sweet and her new haircut it SO cute! 

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  10. You could probably cut the shower gel 50/50 with water and it would work as well and be an even better deal!

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  11. I have struggled with this very thing for years.  We have done the angel tree in the past, but like another poster, I worry about some of the requests being made.  Also, my children are always very eager to be extremely generous to the angel tree, yet they are not spending their own money (because they don't have any).  I want to be generous too, but then I get stressed because we can't afford to give all that my kids want to give.

    A bigger issue I have with giving to those in need at Christmas time is -- why just at Christmas?  Shouldn't we be helping out all year long?  I find myself actually getting irritated that everyone wants to be generous at Christmas time, yet the needy are needy all year long.  We all want everyone to have a "nice" Christmas, but why?  Christmas shouldn't be about us.  It's about Christ and what he gave.  His gift wasn't just a one-time gift.  To me, being generous at Christmas plays into the commercialism. (I hope I'm making sense here and that no one takes this the wrong way.)

    Last year I told my 3 daughters that things were going to be different from now on. I still don't know exactly what we are going to do this year, but I want Christmas to really be about celebrating the birth of our savior, and the gift he gave to the whole world.

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  12. always appreciate these posts, but this week's was an especially good read and very much spoke to me, as its something i needed to "hear" and act upon.  thank you.  

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  13. thanks so much for this...  i've been following your blog and have been so inspired.  with your permission, i would like to post on facebook.  thanks again for the inspiration.

    ann

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  14. What a really good idea for the Bath & Body Works products.  I so miss living close enough to shop there again.  Also the idea of the mailbox is great.  As soon as I seen it I knew it would be perfect attached to the side of my desk to hold things.  Thanks for sharing that inspiration with us.

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  15. Probably the best makeover I have ever seen...especially for the money!! I am going to have to show my husband that one so we can get busy! Kudos on an excellent looking kitchen!

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  16. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 8:22 PM

    what would the world be without hot glue?

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  17. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 8:22 PM

    Awww, thanks Dixie!! good luck with yours~

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  18. If/when my kids got a lot for Christmas it was stuff they needed anyway. Like new socks or underwear or clothes, etc. They were happy to get it and still are. Maybe now even more since they are all in college. One thing which worked for me was taking them to the giving tree at the mall, talking about the kids who might not get anything  unless we help. So each of us looks over the different wish lists until we find one which resonates with us and we go shopping for that child. After loading up for someone else and wrapping and leaving the gifts behind we all feel the great spirit of the season.

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  19. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 8:22 PM

    I stole it from PB, so steal away! Good luck with your new blog :)

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  20. Great idea for the soap/shower gel.  Always looking for a way to save!!  I am behind on my Nate's too - I don't think I've seen that episode.  I do love Mr Good Will Hunting.  Hopefully I'll catch it during the reruns.

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  21. Welcome to Utah, we are having a very hot summer this year, can't wait to see what house you buy and what you find here so I can maybe get in on the same deals. Can you say what part of Utah, I am in northern Utah. Can't wait to see your personal touches you put on your new home.

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  22. **LOVE** The bathroom! It looks GREAT. I am waiting anxiously for those Dollar Tree frames to come back in- they are out right now- BOO! Quick question- what happened to the GE Fridge giveaway?? It was saved in my reader for me to come here and enter, but now the post cannot be found?? I would really love to win that! Please help! Thanks! 

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  23. Love the bathroom's new look! That was one of my favorite books as a child. The illustrations look fantastic in there!! Megan

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  24. Shayne Schoonover1/16/14, 9:11 PM

    That was my kids and my favorite book to read when they were small. Wonderful pictures for framing! Great choice!

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  25. I liked on FB!!

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  26. I would love the SOHO MATTE BLACK Frame :) Awesome idea!

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  27. I love the Pacifica in white....oh how I'd love to be able to redo our Mater Bathroom!!!

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  28. I've liked MirrorMate on facebook!

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  29. I love the idea of framing pages from children's books! I think that will be one of my next projects. It won't hurt my feelings as much to do it when I find great books at yard sales for 10 cents to a dollar! Great job as usual. Love your blog:)

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  30. I want the Bellameade for our master bath!

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  31. I had already liked MirrorMate on Facebook.

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  32. I like MirrorMates on FB.

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  33. You should move your cute lil owl to the middle of your towels... I think it would be just a bit more ascetically pleasing. Such cute pictures! Great inexpensive art! Love it!:)

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  34. Heidi@TheMerryMagpieVintage1/16/14, 9:11 PM

    And I've been a FB liker of MM for a while!

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  35. What brand are the towels? Love the color and pattern!

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  36. Such clever touches for your bathroom space!  I am a HUGE fan of using children's books for decor. I have very old picture book pages featuring soap & bubble images of patchwork animals and pink-cheeked kids in my laundry room.  The book was with a box of things from my grandma's house.  In my "library" room, I used pages from one of my favorite "Book of Knowledge" type books and it lends such a quaint and playful feeling to the space - much the same as your Little House illustrations.  And my kids too, would love the naked child in the picture ;)

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  37. I like the Pacifica in white...oh how I'd love to be able to redo our Master Bath!!!

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  38. Michelle Wright1/16/14, 9:11 PM

    I love the Mediterra Glazed Earth.

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  39. Thanks for the tip.  I'm going to try this with Dr. Bronner's castile soap.

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  40. I would love to use acadia dove white on the mirror in my hall bath!

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  41. I immediately fell in love with the sketches when I saw them! Nice job.

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  42. I would love the Chelsea in brushed bronze. I was so happy to see their work with tri-fold mirrors too!

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  43. I like the waterside style!

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  44. Jessica Gourley1/16/14, 9:11 PM

    I love the Pacifica in white!

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  45. I 'liked' Mirror Mate on fbook a while ago and love seeing the new transformations pop up.

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  46. My husband and I live in a vintage one bedroom apartment... it has beautiful architectural details but not a lot of space!  I could really use tips on how to make our "main" room (which serves as a living room/TV room/office/foyer!!!) more welcoming and habitable.  Thanks!

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  47.  How sweet!  What a wonderful gift you gave Hailey girl, so many blessings headed for you.

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  48. Hmm....all of them?  I mean I am working on it, but I can always use some inspiration for everything!  

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  49. Linda HomeisWhereMyHeartis1/16/14, 9:11 PM

    I already liked MirrorMate on FB. ~Linda

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  50. Oh, Melissa. I am so glad, glad, glad you got started blogging!! I'm trying to remember the first post of yours I ever saw. It may have been that bathroom makeover. Or it may have been from Nester's Window Mistreatment party. To be honest, I think it was the mention of 320 Sycamore or the old Granville house! Anyway, I am grateful to God for having brought me to your door. :)


    Love you!

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  51. Hold the phone.  I've been buying the very expensive 3M strips that do not work all that well (with the running of the stairs and slamming of the door) AND here you've been holding out on LocTite Fun-Tak??  Did you use this on all the pics? And does it come off clean, I think I owe you a great big hug, you may have saved my sanity!  Can you tell me where to find it?  Oh and did you tell us where you got that fabric on the chairs?  It's dreamy.

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  52. I like this comment, its about the WHOLE picture, not the one day.  "I think instead of scaling back on Christmas, I could really scale back all year long so what I'm currently doing for Christmas seems so much more special."

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  53. The Little House..... One of my top 2 favorite children's books. (The Empty Pot is the other. Or maybe Poinsettia And Her Family. Or possibly......)

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  54. I can't agree with you more...it's all TOO MUCH !!  Each year I try to curb giving (and receiving) gifts out of obligation and instead try to give from the heart.  This helps a little.  But with retailers decorating their stores with Christmas merch before Halloween, I begin to feel Scroogey if I'm not planning on giving something to every person I've ever met in my life.  We've asked my mom to only give our kids one toy and one outfit each because otherwise Christmas morning just feels way too excessive. 

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  55. Wow, 17 people visiting my blog at one time today-Thanks to you! You're the best! Thanks for alwasy providing so much wonderful inspiration!

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  56.  Oh Melissa it looks so charming-I bet the kids love it.  I always wanted a little village with lights and all.  Have a beautiful Christmas with your family!

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  57.  That's so funny because I share almost the same experience. When most of
    my friends were out at the mall, my mom and I were scouring antique
    stores and flea markets. When I was in highschool my mom and I started
    collecting Dept. 56, Dickens Village. I still have them but haven't
    really added to them in years. They are fun to display though. She was
    also really great about writing down what we did that day, usually on
    the back of the receipt and would put it in her journal or create a
    journal out of the papers. I  continued with that ever since. While I
    was going through her home, nearly 4 years ago after her death, and
    looking through 50 years of antiques and collections, the thing that
    brought me the most comfort was seeing her familiar handwriting from
    the notes about our days. It was sweet evidence that we did have fun
    together.

    Thanks,
    Laura

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  58. I know you meant it to yourself, but thanks for the note! Take care, Laura

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  59. Chrissie Grace1/16/14, 10:28 PM

    Just the reminder I needed to! It wouldn't kill me to have a little make-up on and look and feel "prepared" for the day... thank you :)

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  60. Very wise!

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  61. seriouslyahomemaker1/16/14, 10:28 PM

    uh-- my name is not melissa. But thanks for the letter. You are right!!!!!!! (a thousand exclamation points because this is so good!)

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  62. Really great thoughts for allof us to remember Melissa!!

    Do come and enter my Artful Offering!It is truly beautiful!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

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  63.  I learn so much from you. :) I love the thought of writing down a memory. I am SO going to start that.

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  64. I think you wrote this for me! Thank you for these wonderful reminders of what is really important. Love your blog Melissa!

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  65. It is so comforting to know I am not the only mom who struggles with all of this! Thanks for the inspiration...I really needed this reminder today!

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  66. I like the Bible bag. She says you can customize the prints and Scripture. Cute!

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  67. Triniti Jensen1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    I love the "Let go and Let God" pillow! and I love that her pieces represent Christ! I also became a follower on her blog!

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  68. Melissa,

    I've been reading for about 8 months, but this is my first comment. Thank you for your words. They are exactly what I needed to hear tonight. My kids will only be this little and it's so important I stop to "see" them instead of constantly indulging in selfish "time wasters". Thank you so much for sharing!

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  69. Lori Bernstein1/16/14, 10:29 PM

     Beautiful! I love how the crisp whites and grays are paired with the natural texture of the baskets. Just lovely!

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  70. Thanks for the much needed reminder!

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  71. Perfection. I'm linking to this post- it needs to be read by every mom, I think!

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  72. seriously? going to print this out and put it on my fridge. or my inspiration board. spot on. really. spot on.

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  73. Yes I agree that vincas are the absolute best flower for the hot sun. I live in central florida where "sun" flowers actually have to be put in partial sun because the summer sun will scorch almost everything, expect vincas! 
    Mine have had a lot of "babies" too. They reseed themselves around the garden. I would pluck sprouts from around my lawn and replant them and they would grow with different colors. And they are perennial. I planted mine in the ground when I first got pregnant and practically abandoned them my entire pregnancy and 26 months later they are still blooming :)

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  74. I always place LOTS of river rock in the bottom of my urns.  Mostly in order to keep the KS winds from destroying my flowers and secondly to provide drainage.  I use Miracle Grow moisture control due to the hot dry summer winds.  I fill my urns with impatiens and Kimberly Queen ferns for my north facing front porch and impatiens in the ground on the north and east.   On the south side of my house, at the kitchen/back door I use a giant urn and fill it with my kitchen herbs.  The hot sun is great for them!   The patio on the south is fully shaded so I use the same ferns and impatiens.

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  75. Lauren@SimplyLKJ1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    Beautiful!  I am in the process of filling our pots for summer.  My biggest problem is keeping them watered, but not overdoing it.  It gets so hot here!

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  76. Ann @ housefinally.blogspot1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    Yes! I am a flower killer too.. but since I found out HD and Lowe's allow you to return a murdered plant iwthin a year to replace it (just save the receipt) I've gotten more brave. My favorites are: kalanchoe (a succulent flower that comes in an array or gorgeous bright colors), million bells (for hanging pots), geranium, day lilies, mums, impatiens(for shady areas), and coleus. Another great thing about all of these plants is that they can be propogated. My coleus is from a leaf I took from a Palm Springs vacation! My geraniums are mostly poached from neighbor's plants. The kalanchoe spread like mad and can be separated (I orginally bought a 4 " pot at the 99 cent store). I posted about my thrifty garden here: http://housefinally.blogspot.com/2012/04/spring-is-springing.html

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  77. Thanks for a great list.  I love having flowerboxes and planters but I am a lazy gardener!  I was wondering what those topiaries are in your planter?  I love the look of them and since my husband just built new flowerboxes for our front porch, I'm thinking that I might want to do non-flowering plants in my front porch planters???

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  78. I struggle with these exact things. What I've decided is that I just have to check myself to see if I am being selfish in the moment--which is different than "taking care of myself so I can care for others." I've also learned to think of "doing the right thing" as simply "blessing my future self." These two thoughts have helped me a lot. Thank you for the inspiration!

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  79. StayAtHome -ista1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    Sonic shakes 1/2 off? Very, very bad. But very, very good that I don't live near one, or I'be be there every night!









    Jessica
    stayathomeista.com

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  80. Absolutely gorgeous post Melissa! Miss Walker xoxo

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  81. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    publish

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  82. Yes, I have the straight iorn. It is the best I've ever owned. It works wonders! There is a couple of different versions. I got the one for extra shine. You can even use it to give your roots a lift, it is awesome.

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  83. Thanks for sharing!!!!  I don't know how you find those great deals.  I just ordered Just Dance 3 and printed the coupon to get the free quart of paint this Saturday.  Also I'm excited for the 1/2 off shakes all Summer!!!!!

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  84. Thank you so much for the deal notices Melissa. I utilize them often. The Crate and Barrel had sold out on line but I managed to find one. That pan has been on my wish list for some time. A big BOO to Ace. I was there when the store opened and they were all out. It seemed all they wanted was the print out with my name and email for their distribution list. I just hate it when that happens. It was a bit of a drive to get there. 
    I love your blog and always show your projects to my husband. You are such a help to our budget!
    Blessings

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  85. Fabulous post Melissa! Waking up early IS key for me as well, and then sometimes staying up late, but when that bus rolls up at 2:30 I put it all aside. I am so enjoying the kids these days...what is better!?
    Janell

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  86. Bernadette @B3HD1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    That Mike's coupon is a just in time winner. I appreciate you for sharing!
    Bernadette
    www.b3hd.blogspot.com

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  87. That's awesome that you applied what you would have spent to others - and that the kids seemed to like it! That's great!  We definately want to limit what the kids get, but the only problem now is talking to the grandparents. One grandma/grandpa like to get them a lot and I'd prefer just one solid gift instead of lots of cheap gifts.  It's just too much. Guess we'll have to talk soon...

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  88. I love it and may just duplicate. I was thinking it would make some lovely dining room table decor.

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  89. Hey there! Love your blog! I just wanted to invite you to come enter a fabulous MODCLOTH giveaway I'm having right now!!

    Hope to see you there! Thanks so much!
    Emily

    http://emilymmeyers.blogspot.com/2012/05/giveaway-time-again.html

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  90. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    Is this Astorga?? Girl, if *you* love it, I am sold! :)

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  91. I love making cupcakes but the problem is I love eating them too. Sigh! Could be why I haven't loss the five pounds I want to lose.
    Ruth

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  92. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    I wish we had one here~they have amazing deals in store, especially the
    outlets! The online store seems to get picked over very quickly, but if you
    get in early on a sale, sometimes you can score. Sounds like you found some
    fun stuff :)


    ======

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  93. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    They were clearancing those out at my store and I thought they were so cute!
    If I didn't have a table already, I would have snatched it up!

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  94. Love this one...as I do all of the quotes you share. But I need your HELP...I have a memory of a framed quote that I saw on your blog...something about a seed? Does this ring a bell? Could you share it again? I really want to frame it for a gift for Mother's Day. :)

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  95. Yup it's me! It is simply amazing. Love your cute blog.

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  96. Kristen@ Fit2feelbetter1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    Thank you very much! Is it ok if I just insert my name where yours is?

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  97. That is so funny - I posted a few days ago a repost of last year's growing grass in eggs! I'm doing it again this year only I may try to color the eggshells first. I just use plain old seed. Yours are super cute. Maybe I'll try another container as well! Love your blog!

    laura
    Here's the link
    http://montydob.blogspot.com/2010/04/egg-cellent-craft-update.html

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  98. Thank you Melissa. As most of your other readers said - feels like you wrote this just to me. My little guy has been having a hard time staying in bed at bedtime, so we have had no quiet time to ourselves in the evenings. By the time he finally settles down and stays in bed, we're exhausted and fall in to bed. The dishes are left undone, the laundry piles up, and the stack of mail continues to grow. Thanks for the reminder that it's okay. Thank you thank you thank you. Erin

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  99. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    I didn't know they had them at WMart?? Thanks for all the info!

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  100. MmmmmmMMMmmmmm cookies....

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  101. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    Mmmm, I love oatmeal squares too and we have used those polos for family
    pictures! I know Pioneer Woman has spoken of her love for their square white
    dishes too...

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  102. Love the poem and the cookies too...except I don't love the extra pounds all over my body. But that hasn't stopped me.

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  103. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    My store sold out of them at full price~what a find to have them at 20
    cents! It's a good thing I'm not in Lubbock anymore :) Miss you guys too. I
    came across a picture of Logan and Ben and it made me miss all of his
    quoteables in Primary!!

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  104. Thanks so much for the Children's Place code and recommendation!

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  105. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:29 PM

    Shawni,
    I love that quote. I have *never* thought of interruptions like that and I will never think of them the same. Thank you for your beautiful perspectives and for being a champion for finding the joy amidst the chaos in motherhood~

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  106. What a beautiful reminder!

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  107. I love the picture of the baby spit-up! I had SO many moments like that the first 5 months of my daughter's life. I wouldn't tried her for the world, spit up and all.

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  108. All so true. I need to remind myself to turn off the computer when the kids are around..... thanks for reminding us all of the important things

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  109. I am a working mom of two and have recently discovered your blog and I.love.it.  So great that you disclose how much everything costs and keep an eye on a real budget.    Love your house. I really admire your vision (seeing what things could be) and your posts on cool sales.  Sales tips--- muy bueno..

    Casey

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  110. You have inspired me to action.  Today I went and took back two "big" toys I had for my 7 year old son.  He doesn't need them and certainly won't appreciate them.  I know I won't miss all the tiny little pieces they each  had.  I am resolving to be more thoughtful when picking out gifts for the kids this year.  So, thank you for getting me thinking about things in a new way this year.

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  111. One thing I did that was smart when my kids were younger was tell them they could ask Santa in their Christmas lists for 3 things only.  Then I said they would almost always  get at least one thing, and if they were lucky, they might even get two things, but they would probably not ever get all three things they asked for.  That took care of them asking for too many outrageous things - and there was usually always at least one thing I did not want them to have for whatever reason, too expensive, too noisy, etc.  They still got a few other things they needed or that were fun, it's just that they could only ASK for 3 things.

    One thing I have done that was NOT smart is not stick with it as they have gotten older,  and I started to  buy more and more things "because they were on sale and such a great price", etc.  Last year we moved and didn't have a lot of extra money, but I could still afford many things because of all the great sales.  I remember I felt physically ill as the kids opened up so many things.  The hard thing is scaling back, when they are used to having so much.  (Again, it didn't cost much at all, maybe $75 - $85 per kid at the most.)  This year I've told the older two (17 and 14) that there WILL be less.  And they get it.  The younger one will hopefully be ok.  I've decided that the main trick for me is finding things for them that will occupy their time, so they don't just open their gifts (of clothes, or whatever) and then have nothing to do all day.  I'm trying to find fun craft items or other BUSY things, even a new CD to listen to.

    I agree with what one poster above said about picking names off the Angel tree.  My kids love it and are VERY generous - because it's my money they are using, not their own.  If we continue to do it, I will make them use some of their own money, because otherwise I don't think they are learning much of a lesson.  I do like the white envelope idea, it is similar to what we have done, which is write "gifts" that we will dedicate to Jesus and put them in a special box under the tree.  This could be a service we will do, or a quality we would like to work on this year, etc.

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  112. This post made me cry...silly I know, but it did! I've been emotional lately...:)  But I need that pic of you 2 in the worst way!  It deserves to be framed on on his dresser.  That pic reminded me of that movie "The Last Leaf"  Happy 11-11-11 Day! I LOVE YOU!

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  113. I love your 11 things post!  I'm glad you included the blurb from your brother.  I am amazed at how few people know why Veterans Day is celebrated on 11/11. Amazed and kind of appalled, to tell you the truth!  Maybe it's because I live in a household of military history buffs.  But honestly, I think my boys knew the answer to this question by the time they were 10 years old.  I guess people learn about what they're interested in, huh?  And I guess I just answered my own question about why my boys don't seem to have learned to use a broom properly.  No interest there! :)

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  114. I CANNOT believe the difference in the doll hair!!!  But, is it worth the $70 price difference???  I am torn...

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  115. I'm totally with you on #9... drives me NUTS (or maybe it's NUTZ).

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  116. Athoughtfulplaceblog1/16/14, 10:32 PM

    Great post. So funny about the dolls. Just bought a target one for my daughter thinking I can avoid the real one  and she says, "Oh great. Now my American Girl doll that Santa brings will have a sister." what the what? Foiled. 

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  117. Okay so #7 ... I love the sound of the vacuum and we used to have a shag carpet rake and used to rake the carpet all the time lol. 

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  118. Love garbage day too! Ahhhhh

    Lovely and fun post.

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  119. Sarah is adorable, love to see her featured!!!  (we also share some favorites!!)  Thank you for hosting Melissa, this is by far one of my favorite parties!  Get so many good ideas!! Merry Christmas!

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  120. I just learned about your blog and I am amazed! This is exactly what I need, someone to show me how to make improvements on my home with out spending a fortune. Thank you so much!

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  121. I love your master bathroom redo. I would like to do that in our bathroom, except use a soft gray on the walls and a stone floor with some gray in it. Love it!

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  122. where are the shelves on the wall from?

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  123. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:33 PM

    Hmmm...I can't think of what that might be. I have lots of be kind
    ones, andthese ones I made for my
    mom,
    but none I can think of besides this one about a seed...

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  124. You have the cutest ideas and all I want to do is go out, buy everything I need and COPY you....thanks for the cute ideas and for ALWAYS inspiring me!! 

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  125. Love this bathroom, this is my new inspiration for my next project:))) thank you for sharing all of the details....Just wondering, maybe I missed it, did you happen to mention the color you chose for the walls??? Love it:)

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  126. Jeffery Haynes1/16/14, 10:39 PM

    My brother loves creating glass splashbacks designs on walls. This glass hurricane looks awesome! I will show this to him so that he can think of a new design based on this dazzling glass hurricane.

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  127. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:39 PM

    Thanks so much, Kari! I love copying WS, don't I?? :)

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  128. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:39 PM

    Hi Caroline~
    It said "page not found." Can you send it to me via email? I would love to see :)

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  129. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:39 PM

    Thank you, Teresa!!

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  130. I love yours! I am ready for Autumn too. A friend came over this morning and we did some fall crafts together. fun,fun!

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  131. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:40 PM

    I do because I think it gives it a tiny bit of suds/cleaning power but you could try without...

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  132. Your kitchen makeover is incredible!  Love the look of everything!  Just about bought that white bowl from TJ Maxx the other day....now I gotta go back and get it!!

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  133. Beautiful make-over :) We are considering painting our cabinets in the spring too, so it is inspiring to see yours and John & Sherry's experiences going so well with that. I am also wondering about the paint color on your walls. We've been looking for a good neutral and there are just so many options! I really like the one that appears just to the right of your peninsula. Do you know the name of the color? Thanks! And again, awesome transformation :)

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  134. Melissa thank you so much for hosting this party. I participated last year and I loved seeing all of the favorites out there. Merry Christmas. ~Liz

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  135. wow! that looks awesome... i just was at the dollar store yesterday and saw that moss... i just might have to make one of these wreath's as well. I love the fall!

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  136. Korrie@RedHenHome1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    Amazing!  Thanks for sharing your sources.

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  137. Melissa Miller1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    Amazing timing for this post. I never knew I was until earlier today. I grabbed Arby's, a pie dessert and candy at Target. Why do I do that? I had really good intentions this morning. I have to get about 10 pounds back off.
    I feel terrible and bloated right now. It was so not worth it. Good luck to you my friend. I understand the process. ~Melissa

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  138. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    I got it at Hobby Lobby! More here: http://www.320sycamoreblog.com/2011/09/more-gallery-wall-touches-amazon-deal.html

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  139. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    Walmart! They were like $9 for a box of them. I love them too :)

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  140. I love the penny tile cabinet back. Such a creative idea and the color is great!

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  141. Melissa!  I am totally obsessed with your DIY ideas!  :D  Your bathroom makeover totally inspired us to do ours, and we did.  I have a question... have you had any issues with your floating shelves?  We just installed the same ones, and they don't feel very stable, in fact, while I did add baskets and things, I'm keeping it really light, nothing very heavy at all.  Have you had any problems with yours?  Here's my version sans the TP and rolled up little hand towels I'm going to add.  Thank you for the inspiration!  Think I'm going to do the hallway hook shelving thing tomorrow.  LOVE how clean it looks!  http://barbmallon.blogspot.com/2013/02/more-home-improvements-and-fun-finds.html

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  142. Hi! I found you from Richella's site at Imparting Grace. She did this, too, and it looked so cool! I will definitely have to try this. I'm going to bookmark your page so I will know what to do when I finally get around to it! By the way, now that it's after Easter, how did the grass look this past weekend?

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  143. True wisdom.If we could teach this to our children and then reinforce it with our teenagers and also live by this as adults we would all have such better relationships. I think that "Go on his way" part means forgiveness, and isn't forgiveness so underrated in our society?

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  144. Lauren Janowiak1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    Love this! It takes a bigger person to just walk away!!

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  145. What a great quote!

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  146. I just love this!! Been trying to find the things at Dollar Tree, most I have gotten already. But the Hurricane vase I just have a problem with. None of the Dollar Tree's around where I live have them. Tried Micheal's and still no luck. Target better look out I'm going there today! Thanks for the beautiful Centerpiece!

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  147. Kristen@Fit2feelbetter1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    Thanks for the suggestions!  They all look so beautiful.  But I was wondering about your topiaries.  I'm on the lookout for some here in Texas but I'm afraid, with me, those would be among the first to go.  Should I invest the money? (-:

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  148. Thank you so much for hosting, Melissa!  I love this party. I may or may not have been hitting "refresh" on your blog every 3 minutes since 12:00.....lol  

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  149. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    Sorry! It ended up being noon central time :)

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  150. Amazing job! Your kitchen is so bright and beautiful, I love it! I would love you to tell us how you painted your cabinets, as well. I want to paint mine but my husband keeps telling me we better not try and tackle it. Now with your kitchen example, I will show him it CAN be done!!!

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  151. Hey Melissa! Thanks so much for hosting! I'm happy to be able to party with you! I enjoyed Sarah's list. I might be heading to Mc D's for a holiday pie after I pick my son up for school! haha!

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  152. I taught a class on container gardening tonight as I work for a botanical garden.  I recommend mixing the potting soil 50/50 with coconut coir (you can buy it at nurseries) as the coconut coir holds 10 times its weight in water and helps keep consistent soil moisture.  Larger pots are generally better than small pots- both in impact and in ease of culture.  Fill the bottom of a big pot with chunky bark to keep air and water circulation. I have no idea why I'm logged in as my daughter! LOL!

    Cynthia
    utahgardenblogs.com

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  153. Melissa, it's just beautiful.  You did a fantastic job putting it all together.  That is a real talent, I think, one that I don't have, so I have copied your style several times!  I don't have a blog, but if you saw my house you would spy a lot of your decorating ideas scattered about.
    I am in the process of painting my kitchen.  Did you paint the bottom of your upper cabinets?  Are the corbels hot glued (great idea, btw) to the tile or the bottom of the cabinets? Oh, does the hardware include the hinges, too?  I'm debating whether to spray paint my old hinges or spring for some new ones.
    Thanks and I look forward to your upcoming tutorials, too!

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  154. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:41 PM

    There are no blue undertones in our bathroom. It is a pure gray, but lighting is everything. I would try out a sample, I know it is so hard to find a perfect gray. We love it though!

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  155. That is an adorable wreath!! I haven't seen one like it, but you did a fantastic job recreating it and for a way cheaper price!  Excellent!!

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  156. 18 of us are in a 6-week Health Challenge and it's awesome.  We get points (up to 10 a day and up to 60 a week...we get one free day!) for 9 different things we do/don't do during the day (exercise is 2 points).  In the end, there is a pot of money to split 80/20 for first and second place!  I am loving this and hope that after this challenge is over, we'll repeat it because it's very motivating!  If anyone wants all the rules to start a health challenge amongst your friends, I'd love to share!  I love this because anybody, any size can participate!

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  157. Hi Melissa!  Thanks for sharing your journey here.   Likes lots of people, I started some health-related New Year's resolutions, and it is good to know I'm sharing the path with some other great people.  I am definitely an emotional eater.  I never used to think I was, but since I've been tracking what I'm eating (myfitnesspal), I am more aware.  When I feel myself wanting to eat something and it isn't actually mealtime, I can nearly always track that impulse to some thought--usually negative.  As in, "Man, I have a lot of laundry to do," or "Grrr--why is jam smeared all over the cabinets?"  It's been so interesting (and a little scary/sad) for me to see that in myself, but recognition is the first step towards change, right?  I may need to buy a Costco-sized package of gum :).  I think it is important to try to get to the root of the emotions that trigger eating.  Also, to learn more about Christ's Atonement and how it applies to addictions and weaknesses.  I've noticed that the way I'm eating is kind of a barometer for how I'm doing spiritually.  I'm sure that's not necessarily true for everyone, but it is for me.  Anyway, good luck!  You are doing well!  P.S.  I like the Spark people approach to eating, because I don't feel very good when I try to cram too much protein.  I think everyone's bodies are different.

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  158. Beautiful and AMAZING job. Very inspiring!

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  159.  I lost 12 pounds once just by eating when I was hungry. Try not to feel disgusted - you are learning great things! and making real effort to take good care of yourself. I like rice powder protein shakes. Keep up the great work.

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  160. Wow! Great job! I found your makeover via Pinterest and I'm so glad I did. I'm tucking away ideas for my place and this budget is WAY closer to what we could swing versus the big-name home decor sites that say $25-30k.

    I love the tile and the cupboards and the drum shades! Gonna go read more now. :)

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  161. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:43 PM

    I haven't~thanks for the tip! I'm not sure when we'll get around to them...half of me wishes they were a little uglier so we would be forced to do something about them and half of me is grateful we don't have to fork out thousands to re-do them! :)

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  162. jayne_sinclair1/16/14, 10:43 PM

    Would you consider sharing those favorite easy meals that you end up cooking over and over?  I like this idea of  eating the same thing-it makes things simpler for sure! 
    I am overwhelmed by the shopping/preparing side of things.  I recall reading that  these little egg muffins (pouring eggwhite directly into greased muffin tin) with turkey sausage and cheese/green onion, etc are only so many calories each-so you could prepare a bunch and just eat two each morning and be good to go on protein. 
    I check in on your blog periodically but your participation in this challenge caught my eye and I come back everyday to hear how  it's going and be inspired.  I am headed out tomorrow to get the extra dessert gum and I'm going to write down what I eat!  Thanks for inspiring me!!!  

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  163. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:43 PM

    Congratulations, Tara! So motivating~thank you for sharing!

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  164. I put the same quote on my facebook several weeks ago because it is so inspiring! Glad to see someone else sharing it too--so universal. I love President Uchtdorf's talks so much!

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  165. This is gorgeous! Love the fact that you got supplies at the Dollar Tree Store..........love saving money!

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  166. This is good for me to know! I'm infamous for killing flowers! I killed eveyrthing in my window boxes last year except for the impatiens - so this year, it's filled with all impatiens! I also keep lots of drought-resistant succulents around my house! :)

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  167. Great post..!
    my heart was filled when i read this post.

    christian sermons

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  168. Love this! Sharing this with credit linking back to here at my Facebook page 'Symphony of Love.' Please let me know if you do not like it to be shared as such and I'll remove it immediately. Sorry for any inconvenience caused to you. Infinite Gratitude, Blessings, and Love to you.

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  169. Will it strip granite sealer off or leave a filmy residue over time?

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  170. Beautiful bathroom!! I LOVE it and would love to do something like this in mine! Thank you!
     

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  171. I love a freshly-vacuumed floor!  Makes me feel like the house is clean even if it isn't.  And I'm with you...I CANNOT stand it when companies spell things like that...ugh.  If it's a pun, it's one thing; but when you're just purposely misspelling words like that I hate it.

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  172. This has been a great bunch of comments to read. We're still working on Christmas, but I'll chime in with the clothes idea. When we were teenagers, my parents used to buy us clothes at the beginning of the school year. We would buy a bunch of stuff without realizing the cost. At some point, they realized that if they gave us a set amount, we would be able to better prioritize what we want to use it on and things would mean more to us. It worked. It was a good chunk of money, and if we had a little more sense we could have made it stretch far, but sometimes we would just get some jeans and a sweater and a couple of shirts and be happy. Now to try and apply this to other things in life..... :)

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  173. I kill geraniums every year. So it has been established that my thumb is purple. :)
    My faves that I put in a barrel each year are a flower called vinca....not the vines but the flower and I never kill them. They must be magic flowers! I will try to find those sweet potato vines near me bc I love those so much better than my usual vinca vines for a filler. Thanks for the tips! I will be thinking of you as I hit my Home Depot garden section in a few weeks. :)

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  174. Thanks for the inspiration, I could use a bit of fall after our monsoon weather!

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  175. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:47 PM

    Of course it can. BUT you want to make sure your husband is on board because it isn't a 4 hr on the weekend process. The kitchen is the center of the home and when it's torn apart, it affects everything. You definitely need to be on the same page on this one. Just my 2 cents...let me know what you decide!

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  176. What an eye-opening experience!  I know I'm your fitness expert on this project, but as a dietitian I am so excited about all that you are learning nutrition-wise too.  I know this will not only help you, but everyone that reads this too!  Great job.

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  177. Thank you for sharing.  Love your new bathroom.  My daughter just installed the allure flooring in her bathrooms and front entrance.  Seeing hers and yours is giving me the courage to give it a go!  Any tips, secrets on installing the floor?  I have never done this before and am looking for the courage!  LOL

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  178. I got that same magazine rack from TJ Maxx! I was so happy when I saw it because it was perfect for my organization wall system. Your bathroom looks great. Wishing I had bought the other one (there were 2) because I'd love to have a mag rack in my bathroom! Great use of this item! www.justhadabrightidea.blogspot.com

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  179. Very nicely done! And in budget too ;) I found you via Pinterest. Just the inspiration needed for or master bath update. Thank you for sharing!

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  180. Thanks for sharing this one!  Something we all could really stand to hear, especially this time of year.  It truly is about living in the here and now.  Something I personally struggle with. Have a wonderful week.

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  181. I love this post Melissa!  I will send you a box of crayons for Christmas! :)  And garbage day...me too.  And the doll difference-totally worth the money in my opinion.  Poor messy hair doll, she must feel envious all day long gazing at straight shiny hair doll.   I've never had vacuum lines because I always buy berber carpet but that is sure something I'd love to gaze at and I love that someone took the time to make a tutorial on it just because.

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  182. Wonderful post - that spit up picture is one many of us can relate to.  But the eskimo kiss one really speaks to me.  Thanks for sharing.

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  183. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:49 PM

    Thank you, Susan! They are a high quality linoleum, have held up really welland thankfully hide quite a bit of dirt!

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  184. Thank you! I love being a mom- I just need to remember how much I really do love it! :)

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  185. such a great quote! If only I could find a little birdie to whisper this into my ear while trying to complete a sentence in the presence of my four children! :)

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  186. Shawni is one of my very favorite bloggers. I'm glad you included her here! 

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  187. I love decorating books and I'm going to get this as soon as I can. I'm in a new house and need some direction.

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  188. Mimi@stateofhospitality1/16/14, 10:49 PM

    Great DIY! Yours is better than Ballard -- more pockets : )

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  189. It's really so nice Melissa. I'm trying not to envy you too much...when our kids were at BYU or UVU we always went to DI when we visited and came home with a few treasures. No kids in Utah now. Oh well. Thanks for the inspiration. :)

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  190. Caroline Otto1/16/14, 10:49 PM

    I found this via Pinterest and you inspired me to do the same thing you did. I bought the pumpkins at Walmart a few weeks ago and made the wreath about a week before Halloween. I'm keeping it up through Thanksgiving. Love it! Thank you so much for the idea!

    http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k468/kearnine/DSC_0069.jpg

    BTW, I had a heck of a time trying to figure out how to do the double-loop ribbon just like Williams Sonoma's. I couldn't find a tutorial anywhere. Does anyone know of one?

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  191. That looks fantastic - everything you do looks so pretty!

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  192. These are just beautiful.  I can't wait to try it myself.  Thanks for the how to info.

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  193. Found this tip linked from Pinterest....IT WORKS! I have lived in my new house for 4 months and have had no luck keeping my granite counters shiny. LOVE THIS...thanks !

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  194. Juliacookecity1/16/14, 10:50 PM

    How do you do it all???? You are amazing. I am a mom of 5 too and I just haven't found that umph that I lost with #5. I love your blog. Thank you so much for sharing and I loved the "Faith" tab on the side. Way to be a missionary! (I'm LDS too) I love it. I did a post on my favorite DI finds and how much a room cost, although your green arrows are awesome and I would love tips on how to do that for when I do post all my makeovers. http://juliadebryandersen.blogspot.com/2011/04/my-favorite-di-find.html#comments When it isn't 12:30 am, and I 1 handed I will dig further into your blog to absorb all your fantastic ideas! Thanks for sharing! Julia

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  195. melissa*320 sycamore1/16/14, 10:50 PM

    more info here: http://www.320sycamoreblog.com/2012/02/master-bathroom-details-pricing.html

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  196. How come I can never find great scores like this when I go out thrifting!?

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