tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88331244992987391192024-02-18T22:37:07.809-06:00Terrell SoupThe ingredients of my life in Terrell, TX.Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-18051525687285359742010-06-20T08:08:00.002-05:002010-06-20T08:18:05.083-05:00Fabulous FreebiesI have gotten some great freebies this week. I love going to the mailbox, because it's like a little lottery or slot machine just waiting to give me things! I've gotten a coupon for free shampoo or conditioner from Suave, free body wash from Old Spice, free feminine hygiene products from Playtex (two different kinds), and lots of little samples of things like shampoo and perfume.<br /><br />I also won a free pedicure from the Spa at the Crescent Hotel in Dallas, and I bought a Groupon coupon for a free week of any of the spa services at Planet Beach Contempo Spa in Dallas for only $20. I plan to be pampered this summer. ;)<br /><br />That reminds me...if you haven't checked out <a href="http://www.groupon.com/">Groupon</a>, it's really cool. You can buy a coupon each day for different things around your area. Here in Terrell I subscribe to the Dallas Groupon, which has a very eclectic offering of coupons. This is the first one I've bought but I've contemplated several others. Check it out and see if anything strikes your fancy. I also love <a href="http://www.seizethedeal.com/">Seize the Deal</a>, which works in the same way. That's where I won the pedicure coupon. <br /><br />Something else to consider trying out...<a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/laurielblack">Swagbucks</a>. It's a search engine that pays you to search with them. You earn money in the form of swagbucks to redeem for prizes and gift cards. Take a look and see if it's right for you.<br /><br />Stay cool...it's supposed to be 101 today in this area. Yikes!Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-73690294467155805222010-06-11T14:25:00.000-05:002010-06-11T14:25:24.509-05:00Soleil 100 Days<a href="http://www.feelthesoleil.com/">Soleil 100 Days</a>: "There are thousands of fun, sharable prizes in the BIC® Soleil® 100 Days of Sunshine promotion. Join now! www.FeelTheSoleil.com"Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-53284494987407202182010-06-11T09:40:00.004-05:002010-06-11T10:12:33.375-05:00Back to Reality<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5PZvQiuS7xiys1Yc2TsUpPCo9DU-D8zee1Ym3zjvFIFEsqsJXcOI5PBiMb3GC3OSjZaL-A6152Bl1_baBhOu53rt4ASm9B9g3nl74ZWvzXwh7pYkDpX7gLSlPAmQR2OQXwExhq2t73KCx/s1600/love+1.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 175px; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481530154292491298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5PZvQiuS7xiys1Yc2TsUpPCo9DU-D8zee1Ym3zjvFIFEsqsJXcOI5PBiMb3GC3OSjZaL-A6152Bl1_baBhOu53rt4ASm9B9g3nl74ZWvzXwh7pYkDpX7gLSlPAmQR2OQXwExhq2t73KCx/s200/love+1.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrrxn_j4BEczGuTDHvz7E47jQZDwLIp_pwNF77sK-OmkuyJqFxKlcHBiI-OXKAC_GcA22KbMmELdjGdXSqzZYwEEMEPFmiJXS42n7YqYf-TcyekpZ-v5qx9eY2WBu-VOdgzeSIJtQs9j_e/s1600/mmworld.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 200px; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481530152323916050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrrxn_j4BEczGuTDHvz7E47jQZDwLIp_pwNF77sK-OmkuyJqFxKlcHBiI-OXKAC_GcA22KbMmELdjGdXSqzZYwEEMEPFmiJXS42n7YqYf-TcyekpZ-v5qx9eY2WBu-VOdgzeSIJtQs9j_e/s200/mmworld.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lkb62ww3Kz_BMIQM1DyVaHWaNMj7JIjEPz5xvRpixQrb0zm-zXS-QUR2aX2Fcl2FMqFGhn87z8j-xlgjj9R2hqPSQWTCkTj5SqCCa5Csfk8rLR9bkn6XGRRWmc3RIlgclm0JfU38oPqy/s1600/love3.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 200px; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481530147315357586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lkb62ww3Kz_BMIQM1DyVaHWaNMj7JIjEPz5xvRpixQrb0zm-zXS-QUR2aX2Fcl2FMqFGhn87z8j-xlgjj9R2hqPSQWTCkTj5SqCCa5Csfk8rLR9bkn6XGRRWmc3RIlgclm0JfU38oPqy/s200/love3.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>I had the most wonderful time in Las Vegas last weekend...it was almost sensory overload. There was so much going on, everywhere you looked, so that I didn't even really know WHERE to look most of the time. We saw the Cirque De Soleil show "Love," based on Beatles music, and it was practically a religious experience it was so good. Excellent food, great shopping, and most of all, my wonderful and beautiful friends Angi, Michelle, and Jen to share it with. We were four best friends in high school, many moons ago, and reconnecting like this is exactly what we needed. True friendship knows no distance or time.<br /><br />I can't say I found many "bargains" in Vegas (unless you count free drink coupons or some of the deals in the souvenir shops) but I have found out now that if you sign up on the different hotel websites, they will email you some awesome package deals and rates for stays there in the future.<br /><br />I do have a few great deals to report. One of the most important things is that you need to sign up on the site <a href="http://www.houseparty.com/">http://www.houseparty.com/</a>. They offer different party packages to help promote new products for different companies. I am hosting a Febreze party on June 26, and my free gift pack for the party includes about 5 new Febreze products for 10 people...so that is pretty awesome and totally FREE!!!<br /><br />Another deal I want to help you get in on is at <a href="http://www.bluemesagrill.com/">Blue Mesa Grill</a>. I love Bobby Flay, and this is his chain of restaurants. If you go to their website, sign up to be a Chilihead. You will get an email with a coupon for a free appetizer. They have four locations in the Dallas area so if you are heading into town anyway, go eat there. It will be worth it, trust me!<br /><br />Money Saving Mom has a great <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2010/06/31-days-to-a-better-grocery-budget-sign-up-for-freebies.html">article </a>on right now about signing up for freebies. I love freebies!!! I have signed up for a lot of sample sites and every day, the trip to the mailbox is like a little lottery. I've gotten so much neat stuff for free lately!! Check it out and see if this is something you'd like to try.<br /><br />We have yet another trip planned for this month...the boys and I are headed to Beaver's Bend for some relaxation and fun...kayaking is my favorite up there! If you've never been, it's one of the most beautiful places on earth. It's in southeastern Oklahoma, and the water there is crystal clear (just like the air). The cabins we stay in are <a href="http://www.beaversbenddream.com/">running a special </a>right now, so take a look and see if it's a place you'd like to visit someday. I highly recommend it!</div></div></div>Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-27769340278299544372010-06-02T17:20:00.002-05:002010-06-02T17:28:48.869-05:00Busy week!I've been very busy this past weekend and week...we took a Memorial Day trip to Oklahoma City/Stillwater/McAlester and had a wonderful time. The boys and I got to go through the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial Museum and had an amazing experience seeing the site firsthand. I highly recommend it for you and your family.<br /><br />As a result of being busy on the road, I haven't had much bargain shopping to do. I did find a great deal on a gorgeous Liz Claiborn carry-on travel bag and matching crossbody purse (BOTH for $57) at the Allen Premium Outlets. I also got a great BOGO deal on Van's shoes for my 11 year old at the same mall. I think we got two pairs of $60 shoes for $48 total. Not bad at all!<br /><br />I chaperoned a couple of field trips this week, both to the Dallas Museum of Art. Today I bought a few gorgeous prints in the DMA Store, all clearanced out from the previous gallery exhibit "Through the Lens of Impressionism." I got about 6 5x7 prints from Monet and Manet, and one 8x10 print from Monet. All together the total was $10. I recently redid my living room in beachy, oceanic colors so all these impressionistic beach scenes will fit right in!! I would have never thought to look there for prints for my house. Just goes to show that bargains are to be had EVERYWHERE.<br /><br />I've gotten several great samples and coupons in the mail this week from places I've registered with online. I got a sample size of Secret Clinical Strength, Purex 3 in 1, eb5 Facial Cream, a Neti Pot, and a great FREE coupon for a Yoplait YoPlus 4pack of yogurt. <br /><br />Heading to Las Vegas soon...hope to have some great bargains to report from there as well. ;)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-11374160886040688572010-05-27T21:00:00.003-05:002010-05-27T21:10:27.542-05:00How Neat...Nearly Free!I had to go back to CVS today to spend some extra bucks before they expired. While I was there I decided to browse around with my coupon book in hand, of course. ;)<br /><br />I wound up with two tubes of hand lotion that cost me .29 each, two more Suave deodorants that cost me .14 each, 8 Reach toothbrushes for 3.99 (two 4 packs with a BOGO coupon), a large bottle of Olay Total Effects 7 for $3 ($2 coupon and $2 extra bucks back), and a few more items from the 75% off sale in the L'Oreal cosmetic department, which netted me $3 in extra bucks so I spent $7 total on powder, blush, and lipstick. Not a bad run at the ol' drugstore tonight. <br /><br />I will never run out of toothbrushes or deodorant...at least this year! I just can't help but get them when they are free or next to it. I will save some for charity donations or give them to my students. I don't believe in letting things go to waste.Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-56296008356539532592010-05-26T20:23:00.005-05:002010-05-26T20:39:18.498-05:0014 t-shirts+5 polos+10 tank tops+6 shorts+1 dress = $70Have I ever mentioned how much I truly LOVE Target?<br /><br />I recently stumbled upon a clearance rack in the boy's size 8-20 department of my local Target store and hit the motherlode. I found my two youngest boys (both youth size M or L, depending on how it's made) their entire summer wardrobe...for literally less than $70 total. I found them screen-printed t's, striped t's, Marvel Comics t's, and some solid and striped polos for $1.24 - $1.98 each!!! Seriously! I picked up 19 shirts, ten for one boy and nine for the other. I also got them four tank tops each for $2.00 or less each. I picked up three pairs of shorts for each boy for $4 each.<br /><br />I went over to the ladies department and found me a really pretty dress on the 75% off rack for $6.48. I also found my great-neice a couple of tanks for $2 each as well.<br /><br />At the register, the checkout lady though I was insane, but when she saw my amazing bargains she was ready to go shop herself. The grand total was $70 and change, for 36 articles of clothing. Not bad, not bad at all! ;)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-1691089810743234992010-05-25T23:22:00.003-05:002010-05-25T23:35:42.436-05:00Terrific TuesdayI got a lot of great deals today!!!<br /><br /><br /><br />At lunch I went to CVS to pick up a few things I'd saved coupons for. I had about 4 BOGOs, a few $1 offs, and also found a 75% off sale on cosmetics. I wound up stocking the boys' bathroom with Gillette and Old Spice body washes. They were on sale for $4 each. I had 3 BOGOS and one $4 off, essentially making it to where I got 8 body washes for $12. In addition, I got $8 back in extra bucks, making it a net $4 for 8 body washes. I also got some L'Oreal mineral pressed powder and loose powder for $3.75 each, and had two $1 off coupons. These were originally priced at $14.99 each! I saved a total of $70 according to the receipt.<br /><br /><br /><br />After a very long workday, I still needed to go to Target and Kroger. At Target, I found a beautiful Merona scarf on clearance for $6.04 and I used the $2.00 coupon from the 'net to get it for $4.04. I found a HUGE sale in the clothing department, with a lot of things priced at 75% off. I found a great Merona dress for $17 and got to use the $3 off coupon on that one as well. I got 5 12-packs of sodas for the kids for $15 with a $5 giftcard to boot, and I got the scrubbing bubbles deal where I stacked three $1.00 off coupons on the toilet cleaning gel, then got a $5 gift card for buying 3...AND I used the BOGO coupon to get a refill pack of scrubbing bubbles toilet brush pads FREE! I saved a total of $72 according to the receipt.<br /><br />At Kroger, between the store specials, my regular coupons and doubling/tripling, and cellfire coupons, I saved a total of $68. <br /><br />Not a bad day's work for groceries and cleaning supplies. I stuck to my list for about 90% of my purchases, which for me is NOT bad at all. I am a terrible impulse shopper. ;)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-10515718708856627612010-05-24T17:56:00.002-05:002010-05-24T18:05:02.837-05:00I Heart Freebies!Some of the freebies I have found today expire really quickly or are limited to a certain number, so HURRY UP if you want to get yours!<br /><br /><a href="http://ext.homedepot.com/specials/3M/">Free 32x41 inch 3M anti-slip floor runner</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.startsampling.com/sm/101265/captureAddress.iphtml?item=101265&source=&key=b1cc18acf238a8c4d5d69f5101350fc4">Free Ritz Cracker Cheddar and Bacon sample</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.naturalpersimmon.com/servlet/the-template/sample/Page">Free Tea</a>Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-66178331986997267182010-05-23T16:40:00.004-05:002010-05-23T17:01:24.157-05:00Popcorn anyone?<a href="http://www.startsampling.com/retail/kroger">Click here</a> to get a free sample of Orville Redenbacher's new Cheddar Cheese Popcorn.<br /><br />Crystal over at <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">moneysavingmom</a> has compiled this week's CVS deals for us...<a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2010/05/cvs-deals-for-the-week-of-may-23-30-2010.html">take a look at some of the great offers</a>!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.naturemade.com/specialcoupon/entry.asp?ID=29">Sign up here </a>to get a free sample of Nature Made chewable vitamin D.<br /><br />Did you know that Wal-Mart's website offers a ton of freebies and discounts? <a href="http://instoresnow.walmart.com/In-Stores-Now-Free-Samples-And-Tools.aspx">Check it out</a>!<br /><br />That should keep you busy for a while, anyway...at least until tomorrow or until I come across a great deal I must share with you! :)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-34673154049545465142010-05-23T01:19:00.002-05:002010-05-23T01:28:35.882-05:00Samples are Super!I got a great sample pack in the mail today from Kraft Foods. It contained 3 bags of Sundried Tomato and Basil Wheat Thins, 3 envelopes of Vanilla Latte instant coffee, and two FREE coupons...one for a jar of Kraft Mayo with Olive Oil and one for their new Homestyle Mac & Cheese. WOW! I have received other samples this week as well, including John Freida Root Awakening shampoo, conditioner, and smoothing lotion; Head and Shoulders shampoo; Prevacid; Stride Mystery gum; Crest toothpaste (travel sized tube); Miracle facial moisturizer and Sculptz facial moisturizer (full sized product). Not a bad week at all!!<br /><br />If you like receiving free samples, visit <a href="http://www.startsampling.com/">www.startsampling.com</a> to learn more.Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-33700836156888041902010-05-22T15:43:00.003-05:002010-05-22T16:05:43.465-05:00Deals and StealsIn the past week or so, I was able to score free deodorant, free dog food, free cat food, free pens, free make-up, and almost-free facial cleanser, cat treats, hair spray, conditioner, shampoo, and razors. I've also gotten quite a few great free samples in the mail. How am I doing all this? Coupons, baby. Printable, cuttable, cell-phoneable coupons.<br /><br />Here are some of the best coupon and deal sites I've found:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.coupons.com/">www.coupons.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.redplum.com/">www.redplum.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">www.moneysavingmom.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.mydfwmommy.com/">www.mydfwmommy.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.couponmom.com/">www.couponmom.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.wickedcooldeals.com/">www.wickedcooldeals.com</a><br /><br />What's great about a couple of the sites (namely moneysavingmom and mydfwmommy) is that the deals can be categorized by store, so if you know you're going to CVS, you can see what's on sale, what coupons and extra care buck rewards are available, and print what you need to be able to get the deal. I have been so impressed by their blogs and their attention to detail that I had to share it with you. <br /><br />A couple of examples of my favorite sales this week: I went to Target this morning and bought 4 large cans of Pedigree dog food, 4 regular cans of Whiskas cat food, and a bag of Friskies cat treats. I had some BOGO coupons and a dollar off coupon, so I spent a grand total of $2.88. On Wednesday I went to Dollar General and bought 4 Suave 24 Hour Protection deodorants (full sized) and actually got back $.24 in change...because the coupons I had were $3.00 off 2, and the deodorant was on sale for $1.50 each! <br /><br />Of course, your mileage may vary, but each time I come across a really good deal, I will post it here or link you to it from another blog so that you can take advantage of the sale or coupon. Happy shopping!Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-69167882983772088122010-05-22T13:37:00.003-05:002010-05-22T13:47:32.474-05:00Welcome back,blog!So I have been quite busy the past six months, apparently. I haven't had much time to think, let alone update this blog. I am making a concerted effort to keep up, especially now that baseball season is over. <br /><br />Some highlights...I have lost about 54 pounds in my WW journey, give or take the four pounds I keep trading up and down since hitting a plateau in March. I'm not giving up, though. It will come off eventually.<br /><br />I walked a 5K with my friend Julie in April, which was a lot of fun. It was a goal to just finish and we did...and we weren't last! ;)<br /><br />I have taken up a new hobby or two...cooking and couponing. Cooking, of course, should be easy for me since I have a family that eats and I have foodie friends. However, boiling water was about my limit until now. I am learning a lot and finding new recipes to try, new seasonings, and I am even growing some of my own herbs and vegetables. Weird, huh? The couponing though is my favorite thing right now. I scour the papers, the internet, and every sale source I can find to get the best deals on things. That's kind of where this blog comes in...I want to be able to share with you guys the sales and coupons I come across that benefit all of us around here. Money is tight and we all need a hand.<br /><br />So keep up with me and I will try to keep this blog updated regularly with local sales and deals, as well as the happenings in my life. :)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-30045533639480763062009-10-04T15:08:00.008-05:002009-10-04T16:57:51.937-05:00Cake, Camo, Goals, Memorials, H1N1,,.and so on and so on<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs275.snc1/10218_1252624080713_1382876688_30763556_3012574_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 420px; height: 300px;" src="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs275.snc1/10218_1252624080713_1382876688_30763556_3012574_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs275.snc1/10218_1253065371745_1382876688_30764964_4181944_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 420px; height: 300px;" src="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs275.snc1/10218_1253065371745_1382876688_30764964_4181944_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xxmDZ5pIDLsHmNtoEvnxehNwhwqnrLkgxg-dSkRhENjQkWU0zYH-qIcgwbUhQ9tLqHrE_6FYBuFJjw2AAxl-gEcKcg75C3-a3ii5AYwbHBV3AlyRrBymDrMaxfMlVYzCOVJguqoujKhX/s1600-h/party-guests.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xxmDZ5pIDLsHmNtoEvnxehNwhwqnrLkgxg-dSkRhENjQkWU0zYH-qIcgwbUhQ9tLqHrE_6FYBuFJjw2AAxl-gEcKcg75C3-a3ii5AYwbHBV3AlyRrBymDrMaxfMlVYzCOVJguqoujKhX/s200/party-guests.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388843047564656370" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1BiCki0SG1UCgkIbyBNY8mlwD_yLWCqVhZD9e6t58iLBgB6Yas2WjM0d_O339WuBEox2rs1QPuiibMD3mETJmv-IVhlwrgF_uE_fFWE4uJgHFS1p6dVAwk50RAp9mL7GcCDyCUjLqS1n/s1600-h/bow.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1BiCki0SG1UCgkIbyBNY8mlwD_yLWCqVhZD9e6t58iLBgB6Yas2WjM0d_O339WuBEox2rs1QPuiibMD3mETJmv-IVhlwrgF_uE_fFWE4uJgHFS1p6dVAwk50RAp9mL7GcCDyCUjLqS1n/s200/bow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388843045725084562" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjIAipoQojrig8gHnFiqzhYXv0I-0k46Z-mmkhLJeAnVLg7TJpC-wEfCEhIq2U1QlvZqHbJeaOvWhHjmgb4cnGhT_prIjUiw-okK9zzEs8j6BQSLbByJIneHFTnnrkhnU15rcXtH9TZW6/s1600-h/cake.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjIAipoQojrig8gHnFiqzhYXv0I-0k46Z-mmkhLJeAnVLg7TJpC-wEfCEhIq2U1QlvZqHbJeaOvWhHjmgb4cnGhT_prIjUiw-okK9zzEs8j6BQSLbByJIneHFTnnrkhnU15rcXtH9TZW6/s200/cake.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388843034317503794" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+30:20&version=NIV">Isaiah 30:20</a></strong><br />Although the Lord gives you the bread of <b>adversity</b> and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them.<br /><br />What an insane past two weeks. So much has happened that I don't really know where to start. Let's see...the beginning is as good a place as any, I suppose.<br /><br />Wednesday, September 17, 2009. Andre came home from school sick. We went to the doctor and they said it was probably the flu but no bad symptoms; just let it run its course.<br /><br />Thursday, September 18, 2009...Andre was sicker so I took him back to the doctor, where they discovered he had pneumonia. No school until at least Monday.<br /><br />Sunday, September 20, 2009, I got a call during Sunday school that my mother was unresponsive and being taken to the hospital from her nursing home in Grand Saline. I met my sister there and Mama was actually semi-alert; enough to where she asked me about me cutting my hair off and dying it blond. She told my sister and I that she loved us very much, then was unresponsive again. They did a CT scan and saw a massive brain bleed. They care-flighted her to Tyler, where the trauma surgeon explained to us that there was no hope and that they were transferring her to hospice. Mama passed away that night close to 9:00, peacefully and without pain. It was horrible and awful for us, and I am still so very sad about her loss..but know that she is rejoicing today, well and able to dance and sing and see her relatives that she's missed for so long.<br /><br />Monday, September 21, 2009...Clay came down with the flu. He missed three days of school because of it. It was strain A, but not positive for H1N1. He and J.P. weren't going anyway, due to the loss of my Mama. Andre had to go to school since he had missed several days the week before.<br /><br />Thursday, September 24, 2009...we all went back to school and work.<br /><br />Saturday, September 26, 2009...I started feeling quite unwell.<br /><br />Sunday, September 27, 2009...thought a bus had hit me in my sleep...not good.<br /><br />Monday, September 28, 2009...went to doctor. Positive for strain A flu. No tamiflu for me, though...only for children and elderly patients. Rest and fluids advised.<br /><br />Wednesday, October 1, 2009...back to doctor...thought death was near. Much MUCH worse, and had a strange new symptom with a SWOLLEN face (right side). CT scan, new antibiotic, new diagnosis of secondary strep infection and a sinus infection...hurray. Doc said that if I did not improve in 24 hours, I was going to the hospital. She also said I better have a backup plan in line for taking care of the kids if I go to the hospital. Yikes.<br /><br />Thursday, October 2, 2009...back to doctor AGAIN. Was already better, thankfully. No hospital for me.<br /><br />Friday, October 3, 2009...got a call from the doc; she confirmed I did, in fact, have H1N1 flu. Good to know now that I was either going to get well or die.<br /><br />Saturday, October 3, 2009...spent the afternoon at the Outdoorsman's Expo at FBC since I was feeling up to it. Had a lot of fun!!! Also had my early birthday party (combined with my friend Lisa, since our bdays are the same) at Julie's house...lots of fun, fellowship, and an awesome cake. It's good I had the cake that night, because that morning, I weighed in at WW and met my 10% goal!! I've lost 26.6 pounds. WOW!!!<br /><br />Which brings me to today....Sunday, October 4, 2009. Looking forward to a new week with NO new events, and NO doctor visits. If I go any more, they'll have to rename it after me. I've funded at least one new wing. ;)<br /><br /><br /><br />Have a blessed week!!Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-45441576529104255182009-09-17T05:50:00.003-05:002009-09-17T05:55:49.702-05:00Weight Watchers WednesdayOK, now it's serious. I am down 22.8 pounds already! My clothes look like a "family of gypsies has moved out of them" according to close family. ;) I am so motivated to lose more weight that I even WALKED IN THE RAIN. What is wrong with me??? ;)<br /><br />I'm proud of myself, but mostly I'm proud that I got two of my besties and one of my co-workers to join WW. I think we can be great support for one another and I know that we will all be healthier for it. We can walk together, celebrate together, and enjoy our newer, healthier lifestyle together! We can also go shopping together as necessary. ;) I think that might have to be soon, since my pants keep falling down. <br /><br />I'm loving finding new recipes to try, even though I still don't consider myself to be much of a cook at all. I grilled salmon the other night, and had roasted broccoli and a huge salad with it. The boys loved it. Of course they love anything they can slather in honey mustard. I won't tell them it was LIGHT honey mustard. ;)<br /><br />The rain is putting a damper (no pun intended) on my walking at times. When it's more than drizzling, I don't walk but I am keeping active. I have my Gazelle and I also do more housework to keep up with the activity points. I should get a treadmill, I suppose. Anyone have one for sale, cheap?<br /><br />Have a glorious week and I'll see you soon. :)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-44104751560330706442009-09-09T20:31:00.000-05:002009-09-09T20:32:00.933-05:00Weight Watchers WednesdaySo I'm almost 7 weeks into the program...and I am 20 pounds lighter, 2 dress sizes smaller, and a mite more healthy I do believe. I can't believe I never did this before. What was I thinking? Rather, what was I NOT thinking? I've actually had fun doing two things that were the very bane of my existence before: exercise and cooking. Seriously.<br /><br />Cooking has been fun because I have learned many new and interesting things that can be thrown into a crock pot. I love it when a plan comes together. ;) I have tried a lot of recipes that have been good enough that the kids haven't questioned my abilities or my sense of taste (shout out to Melisa for the recipes!). I've also created and substituted things that fit our tastes better, which has worked out well so far. I've not been sad at the grocery store, staring longingly into the bakery section or anything. I've found lots of things that taste as good and are more filling and less fattening. I'm also finding that by using the recipes, I have made out grocery lists and planned menus...which means fewer trips to the store and actually a better grocery bill. Yay!<br /><br />Exercise is something I actually...seriously...look forward to! I walk in the mornings, about a mile and a half, and then I'm walking in the evenings, about a mile and a half to two and a half miles. I do this 5 or 6 days a week. I truly believe this is what is making the difference for me weight-wise. I've been able to step up my pace and now go a mile and a half in about 20 minutes. I'm walking farther to get more time in, since WW activity points go by time and not distance. In the mornings I walk about 25 minutes, and in the evenings I am up to 45 minutes. Each step makes me stronger, healthier, and more determined to lose weight.<br /><br />I can't wait for Monday. I think I'm in new numbers this week, which will mean at least one more star. I am at a point now where I'm at a weight I have not seen since Byron died, and possibly even before then. I had a strange experience shopping over the weekend...I went to the racks and headed straight for the same old size I've worn for the past two years, and then realized it wouldn't fit. I went to the next size down, but when I tried it on, it was still too big. Even though I knew that would be the case, psychologically, I haven't gotten myself past that old self-image. Is it just me or is that a phenomenon with most people who are big and start losing weight? I wound up not buying anything, but I came home and looked in my closet...which holds a variety of sizes throughout...and found a new pair of pants I had bought 2 years ago but never could button. I wore them to work today! Guess what...I had to pull them up more than a few times. ;)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-82435846953507186772009-09-06T16:34:00.005-05:002009-09-06T16:47:44.831-05:00A Little of This, A Little of That, and a lot of Music!<strong><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judges+5:3&version=NIV">Judges 5:3</a></strong><br />"Hear this, you kings! Listen, you rulers! I will sing to the LORD, I will sing; I will make <b>music</b> to the LORD, the God of Israel.<br /><br />I have been a non-blogger the past two weeks. I had to let school start and immerse myself back into the routine of it all. Hopefully things are back down to a fair sense of normal, whatever the heck that is. ;)<br /><br />Football is in full swing now, and the Terrell Tigers are 2-0. Wow! I am so proud of our team. I'm also proud of the band, the colorguard, the Tigerettes...they make us shine and I am thrilled to be a part of it all every week.<br /><br />I have not posted my last two Weight Watchers Wednesdays...I feel awful! But I have been losing weight still; 19.4 pounds as of last week. I'm on a roll and don't intend to stop for at least 70 or so more pounds.<br /><br />Anyway, on to the topic of local music. I was able to get in a promo shoot with the guys from "Hey Jersey" this weekend, and caught their show at The Adelaide (along with three other local bands). The talent all our kids seem to possess is incredible. If you ever have an opportunity to see a show at this particular venue, I highly recommend it. Mark Nichols runs a very tight ship at The Adelaide and the kids who come to the shows are well behaved and are there to have a great time with some awesome local music and hang out with their friends. My son filled in as a bass player for "Horseshoes and Hand Grenades" and did a great job with that, I think. I took a lot of pictures of the bands...some samples follow below. To see the whole shebang, you have to check out my facebook page. ;)<br /><br />Horeshoes and Hand Grenades:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jq6tEkqvQwwOgdbqqPE2IX35QLkL5mNUsJgURzNJMPHjOKOGus-Iq711S2HoQ87QtuHfSpzkfnQEj59spddzrNgU5wZkWfQdjAL5oWcMWIblK2r3Oh5Mqir3XGniSgadkAXSJgcm1Sc4/s1600-h/9.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jq6tEkqvQwwOgdbqqPE2IX35QLkL5mNUsJgURzNJMPHjOKOGus-Iq711S2HoQ87QtuHfSpzkfnQEj59spddzrNgU5wZkWfQdjAL5oWcMWIblK2r3Oh5Mqir3XGniSgadkAXSJgcm1Sc4/s200/9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473886085627986" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0AuHHDbWLQaMmfjKyr6j_mPRYz9IsS2nyjfStEUhq0I3HxMsGyR8C4fcar7GEMfn6x62I69D0bucHpl9NNfkSdeFVDqcJFAigary8h9Gj05JMuMPufF_3NsNPhUkZZKiiI5LCsC2QfXB/s1600-h/5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0AuHHDbWLQaMmfjKyr6j_mPRYz9IsS2nyjfStEUhq0I3HxMsGyR8C4fcar7GEMfn6x62I69D0bucHpl9NNfkSdeFVDqcJFAigary8h9Gj05JMuMPufF_3NsNPhUkZZKiiI5LCsC2QfXB/s200/5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473875668417490" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nxBM5b7b0ZNw0-96C-x4YugxUFzQEpSZJa6AsGeocko6qtIUoSw5kpudAG3jCQEvKYlg8VQ-AGHby67dJqynnJEf6g88_poz9_qQGDfThANFBBAgS8DAyZZCKAWfZP-voAPzGG8JzOu0/s1600-h/6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nxBM5b7b0ZNw0-96C-x4YugxUFzQEpSZJa6AsGeocko6qtIUoSw5kpudAG3jCQEvKYlg8VQ-AGHby67dJqynnJEf6g88_poz9_qQGDfThANFBBAgS8DAyZZCKAWfZP-voAPzGG8JzOu0/s200/6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473872848866818" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdTVpj7xQDXE_-nFBL8afSy1ulAlgGeC63FcUUfoIVLDRamEtMpZSVG4X8gFuKev2EyizYn4JrZ7QemCsfP2sWFeNnJ25OtNET0js2KhRdCJW1nK4TSGsryQ7SdYa1l-5IyRF_4asnOfz/s1600-h/3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdTVpj7xQDXE_-nFBL8afSy1ulAlgGeC63FcUUfoIVLDRamEtMpZSVG4X8gFuKev2EyizYn4JrZ7QemCsfP2sWFeNnJ25OtNET0js2KhRdCJW1nK4TSGsryQ7SdYa1l-5IyRF_4asnOfz/s200/3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473861989667618" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7e-xqSessiozAG1QYNi7d3WNWfvRm-rUDgU7Ttr2Rz4pqbLHXv2k8f9tIFCLbvjy4WsEgWLFEP_U2RwDJg6jjqOlPVSu2obNaJs8SUHxiZ3G72XRu-nCMud7mebWQ__pTxVxom1q-P1k/s1600-h/2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7e-xqSessiozAG1QYNi7d3WNWfvRm-rUDgU7Ttr2Rz4pqbLHXv2k8f9tIFCLbvjy4WsEgWLFEP_U2RwDJg6jjqOlPVSu2obNaJs8SUHxiZ3G72XRu-nCMud7mebWQ__pTxVxom1q-P1k/s200/2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473853551188434" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Hey Jersey:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDs98DV0-qdcX5hhyP1_6-AJgHn8IPNO1JIs-9_CYbSnE6sL1PJREFN09ANoOLPck410HOYrNZ6M9vJLCC23V8p4qLz40GBzvWi0QimjEZhw1IiMgpyS3uuUX6inhxWMabDpwiGg3e2Bk/s1600-h/live-35.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDs98DV0-qdcX5hhyP1_6-AJgHn8IPNO1JIs-9_CYbSnE6sL1PJREFN09ANoOLPck410HOYrNZ6M9vJLCC23V8p4qLz40GBzvWi0QimjEZhw1IiMgpyS3uuUX6inhxWMabDpwiGg3e2Bk/s200/live-35.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473468200614610" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFT3kLqFqjSzqcbOrk45ScNMN4MA8bRU_7wVuEhMqwIV0El1CikQAgIMlvBGqMKz9RxOVVGZOF9GdXaBuY-iTU8fR2voo9AM4SwiR3pBwRTbKedoR-p6sja0Jdjp_SS4wFtxnAlY0NOSsB/s1600-h/live-29.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFT3kLqFqjSzqcbOrk45ScNMN4MA8bRU_7wVuEhMqwIV0El1CikQAgIMlvBGqMKz9RxOVVGZOF9GdXaBuY-iTU8fR2voo9AM4SwiR3pBwRTbKedoR-p6sja0Jdjp_SS4wFtxnAlY0NOSsB/s200/live-29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473462532537858" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Chlq087Em-d1zVRl58gOLC3-EMgH-D33sLPxj4Og9Bz60dnlCyYAmriqz9YPgQ7_AWPA1okSSyNwGX-J7l1fHWA7iuIM5DsPeRupaOO0ZNwqfhzrfSYTXntRV_LGHkDd7tscLw_aUv23/s1600-h/live-9.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Chlq087Em-d1zVRl58gOLC3-EMgH-D33sLPxj4Og9Bz60dnlCyYAmriqz9YPgQ7_AWPA1okSSyNwGX-J7l1fHWA7iuIM5DsPeRupaOO0ZNwqfhzrfSYTXntRV_LGHkDd7tscLw_aUv23/s200/live-9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473459297425906" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlKuBf9JEIn7lusF1FtYLYMgTNHn-gNZFFGuz9KoiZ-FgM-Ps5ytZf54jPgefhfr6fYUL664oeaRETI8M-zY-YfhuroW72FlsDhIGcG9LHni34xgObXSBXmdN_nika4T1uTMJJjI7mzwQ/s1600-h/live-6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlKuBf9JEIn7lusF1FtYLYMgTNHn-gNZFFGuz9KoiZ-FgM-Ps5ytZf54jPgefhfr6fYUL664oeaRETI8M-zY-YfhuroW72FlsDhIGcG9LHni34xgObXSBXmdN_nika4T1uTMJJjI7mzwQ/s200/live-6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473451560619650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPGdMXXVwzC7g_K7LL03isLX3T-DVMeZAtot2lC2bXemGkm2bRLdwkbvXWWSxNAi9yToTFZGpoLqw1VLbzrx9nOdmjN7_FGkFTYLwzFJrgahDnjN65MlF4uSa_IiLfGz_Ayjqh4qRC0Vk/s1600-h/live-3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPGdMXXVwzC7g_K7LL03isLX3T-DVMeZAtot2lC2bXemGkm2bRLdwkbvXWWSxNAi9yToTFZGpoLqw1VLbzrx9nOdmjN7_FGkFTYLwzFJrgahDnjN65MlF4uSa_IiLfGz_Ayjqh4qRC0Vk/s200/live-3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473443512744514" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfna8FS45WX-4WI3sZXrE9892GokB7YvUM6CKRr59J7WgeLyMdwbqaAvQ0lzNZcE96ZKrkCTof_3pRWcUAmptIoXAiOCk9c2PrBtjncctjw8pEUOE4sOQOwm1CR8G-9UYaX-zLH3Omzzai/s1600-h/live-1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfna8FS45WX-4WI3sZXrE9892GokB7YvUM6CKRr59J7WgeLyMdwbqaAvQ0lzNZcE96ZKrkCTof_3pRWcUAmptIoXAiOCk9c2PrBtjncctjw8pEUOE4sOQOwm1CR8G-9UYaX-zLH3Omzzai/s200/live-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473155316168386" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Hey Jersey Promo Shoot:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIp23c1_MzT44TFmT9KR4NDwJ5R60ZGY9lgOZJBTeymWhAnJiw27xEYgikxM18Xr3LRnwUFOD47Z3s3JuyfuFMzYXngdoyrjD5LAK8jMqCckYSld6T0E9Oup2hig8ajNmg4nMeeWFIRTe/s1600-h/hey-jersey-8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIp23c1_MzT44TFmT9KR4NDwJ5R60ZGY9lgOZJBTeymWhAnJiw27xEYgikxM18Xr3LRnwUFOD47Z3s3JuyfuFMzYXngdoyrjD5LAK8jMqCckYSld6T0E9Oup2hig8ajNmg4nMeeWFIRTe/s200/hey-jersey-8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473150381512290" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4154j2hM3a9J6TJmTVFrFBpTsKD5VSIB9OS_8lU9jrzKcFbT6wP2FD6tMfs2vbgYxdifDEQAN8by8fjHuD_ezKsz_UMlZXo9gns7KisgXmngYc8Yt7O6CZDpcnvmXdV9m4ASR2GeRrlbp/s1600-h/hey-jersey-6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4154j2hM3a9J6TJmTVFrFBpTsKD5VSIB9OS_8lU9jrzKcFbT6wP2FD6tMfs2vbgYxdifDEQAN8by8fjHuD_ezKsz_UMlZXo9gns7KisgXmngYc8Yt7O6CZDpcnvmXdV9m4ASR2GeRrlbp/s200/hey-jersey-6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473140392001538" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCw97mg7oJsXBbc-S-1Z_zpf4SbdRzNKYu9nQpoaiQuLfl-tOeHA6F6Xoq9gOdVgu02HoSSUyJrRk8ughtNZmVyy61pYSebk9hbRSmkc6upiZT2hEq8UGLTSeFGEo0JVFcfO_ECaE5xdF2/s1600-h/hey-jersey-4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCw97mg7oJsXBbc-S-1Z_zpf4SbdRzNKYu9nQpoaiQuLfl-tOeHA6F6Xoq9gOdVgu02HoSSUyJrRk8ughtNZmVyy61pYSebk9hbRSmkc6upiZT2hEq8UGLTSeFGEo0JVFcfO_ECaE5xdF2/s200/hey-jersey-4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473134206035650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAGYfMSVlPaVErWqFWG7P4xAntFbgxJnWiCUlaf5W1FsCjAgXeBwnIC1RaEuD4IcJ8_s7fWPfKhz6l9XCCPOrMDlRQIzW2UrWeegX8vV0Ay0J-EJWPWt96PaaIo189XldtEhs0ubuH_Pbi/s1600-h/hey-jersey-1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAGYfMSVlPaVErWqFWG7P4xAntFbgxJnWiCUlaf5W1FsCjAgXeBwnIC1RaEuD4IcJ8_s7fWPfKhz6l9XCCPOrMDlRQIzW2UrWeegX8vV0Ay0J-EJWPWt96PaaIo189XldtEhs0ubuH_Pbi/s200/hey-jersey-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378473126742087762" border="0" /></a>Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-13651298354916522762009-08-22T10:25:00.002-05:002009-08-22T10:33:20.777-05:00Ride 'em, Cowgirl!<strong><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=23&chapter=23&verse=1&version=31&context=verse">Psalm 23:1</a></strong><br />[ <i> A psalm of David. </i> ] The LORD is my <b>shepherd</b>, I shall not be in want.<br /><br />I had the best time shooting pictures of this little filly...Avery is a sweetie and I would take her home with me in a second (if it weren't for those pesky boys of mine). ;) She's about to turn 3 and is having a "cowgirl" themed party. These shots are for the invitations. I will only post a few, but there are so many good ones I bet her mom has a hard time choosing! :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220692242437_1382876688_30661115_4974736_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 402px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220692242437_1382876688_30661115_4974736_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220691682423_1382876688_30661109_1710904_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 402px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220691682423_1382876688_30661109_1710904_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220692282438_1382876688_30661116_5061308_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 402px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220692282438_1382876688_30661116_5061308_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1220690922404_1382876688_30661107_7557045_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 402px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1220690922404_1382876688_30661107_7557045_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220690762400_1382876688_30661103_1783975_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 402px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1220690762400_1382876688_30661103_1783975_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-18945510354720488962009-08-19T18:16:00.000-05:002009-08-20T06:23:00.377-05:00Weight Watchers WendesdaySo after three full weeks on the Weight Watchers plan, I've lost 15 pounds. F-I-F-T-E-E-N pounds! Yay me! I have to put that into perspective, into terms I can visualize. Two full-term newborns. Two gallons of milk. That's a lot! I'm so excited to be experiencing success and to still feel so motivated to lose more.<br /><br />However...<br /><br />I can't escape the feeling of "waiting for the other shoe to drop," so to speak. I keep thinking this is just too easy. The scales must be wrong. It can't be as simple as this. It can't be just eating better and moving more. Am I the only one who has felt this way? I think it's ingrained, from a lifetime of going up and down the scale so much I ought to have whiplash. I mean, seriously...who in their right mind is excited to get up early in the morning to go walk a mile or two? I really feel better in the mornings when I get my walk in first thing. I look forward to it in the evenings because it's a few minutes of peace. Plus I have to hear the next chapter of my book (currently in the middle of Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer).<br /><br />I know it won't always be this easy. I know I will have to slow it down a bit because losing enough to accomplish this first goal probably consisted of a lot of fluid and a lot swelling that would naturally come off easier. I'm praying that I stay motivated and excited even when the losses come in numbers like .8 or .25. A loss is a loss, you know. Until then though, I'm relishing earning my little star stickers. :)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-44847104344408362322009-08-15T21:17:00.002-05:002009-08-15T21:25:35.146-05:0030 Compressions...2 Breaths<strong><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=1&chapter=2&verse=7&version=31&context=verse">Genesis 2:7</a></strong><br />the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and <b>breath</b>ed into his nostrils the <b>breath</b> of life, and the man became a living being.<br /><br />CPR is something that I feel everyone should know how to perform, at least at a rudimentary level...just in case. As part of my job duties, I have been certified by the Red Cross to be a CPR/AED/First Aid instructor and as such, I am an authorized provider for the training for the school district. <br /><br />Today I recertified 37 Petermann Transportation employees for CPR and AED. It was a full day. We had two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Working with recerts is actually kind of fun, because since they've already sat through the whole 8 hour class before, doing the "challenge" to recert simply consists of taking the written exam (all three parts) and then performing the actual skills on the manikin so that I can be sure they know how to do the steps properly. That's the most time consuming part, but it's my favorite part as well. <br /><br />I explain to anyone I teach that I want to be confident enough in their abilities that I would allow my own children to be on their bus and know that they could take care of them if the need were to arise (God forbid). <br /><br />Fortunately today, everyone passed the exam and all demonstrated appropriate skills. We have a good group of drivers and they were all attentive and asked questions. I am confident that if there were an emergency, they each have the capability to handle it. <br /><br />Even though the challenge is shorter, with 37 people to go through, I am a tired little girl tonight. It takes it out of you!<br /><br />If you never remember anything at all from a CPR course, remember this...30 chest compressions, 2 breaths...you can help make a difference and possibly save a life.Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-62059695438220005342009-08-12T18:14:00.002-05:002009-08-12T18:17:15.481-05:00Weight Watchers WednesdaySo I made it through another week on program without feeling deprived or denied anything. I lost 1.4 pounds. Not as dramatic, of course, as the previous week, but still a good loss for a week. I'll take it!! It was a little more difficult this week, especially with the wedding (and wedding food, wedding cake, etc.) but I did just fine and didn't go over my weekly allowance at all. In fact, I only used 9 of my 35 weekly points.<br /><br />I'm exercising twice a day and now am up to a mile and a half each time. I really enjoy using that time to walk to listen to books and to spend some time in thought or prayer.<br /><br />Here's to another good week and good loss! :)<br /><br />P.S. If you get a chance, look at the article in the Tribune yesterday about Project HOPE. I made the cover! ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.terrelltribune.com/articles/2009/08/12/news/doc4a8307bd5fe08760768953.txt">http://www.terrelltribune.com/articles/2009/08/12/news/doc4a8307bd5fe08760768953.txt</a>Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-34231397456424685482009-08-09T21:04:00.002-05:002009-08-09T21:15:14.756-05:00Wedding Bells Are Ringing...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1210989799882_1382876688_30627174_1468273_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1210989799882_1382876688_30627174_1468273_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1210989439873_1382876688_30627165_6867334_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1210989439873_1382876688_30627165_6867334_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1210989679879_1382876688_30627171_4057942_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 403px;" src="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1210989679879_1382876688_30627171_4057942_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1211094842508_1382876688_30627610_1022282_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1211094842508_1382876688_30627610_1022282_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1211094682504_1382876688_30627606_7126490_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1211094682504_1382876688_30627606_7126490_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1211094082489_1382876688_30627591_6643495_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 403px;" src="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1211094082489_1382876688_30627591_6643495_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1211086482299_1382876688_30627550_4672897_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1211086482299_1382876688_30627550_4672897_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1211087282319_1382876688_30627569_5184717_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 604px;" src="http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1211087282319_1382876688_30627569_5184717_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1210989839883_1382876688_30627175_1674111_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 403px;" src="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6291_1210989839883_1382876688_30627175_1674111_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1210989399872_1382876688_30627164_4301524_n.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 403px;" src="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs168.snc1/6291_1210989399872_1382876688_30627164_4301524_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=1&chapter=2&verse=24&version=31&context=verse">Genesis 2:24</a></strong><br />For this reason a <b>man</b> will <b>leave</b> <b>his</b> <b>father</b> and <b>mother</b> and be united to <b>his</b> wife, and they will become one flesh.<br /><br />Two very dear friends of mine were united in marriage on Saturday afternoon. I had the privilege of taking their wedding pictures for them, and thought I'd share a few with you.<br /><br />The bride lost her husband one day before I lost mine, also very suddenly due to a heart attack. The groom lost his wife almost two years ago due to a sudden stroke. The pair have known each other for a very long time, as their families went to church together. After their spouses' passing, they both attended GriefShare, a grief counseling program at First Baptist. After the semester in the support group, their friendship grew and they fell in love. I am so very, very happy for them. They give me hope that there is love out there in the world, somewhere! :)<br /><br />Busy week ahead, working on the rest of their pictures and putting together a surprise for them. I'll keep you posted! :)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-77339716004114338792009-08-05T20:47:00.002-05:002009-08-05T20:56:29.664-05:00Weight Watchers WednesdayI had my first full week of WW as of Monday. I stayed completely on program, and I never once felt hungry or wanted to eat something that wasn't such a great choice for me. I stayed full, and I ate what seemed like a lot of food. I chose to eat several times during the day in smaller portions that were just a few points here and there, rather than using them in big chunks on a couple of big meals. I only used 2.5 of my "extra" weekly point allowance, and I never traded any of my activity points. Speaking of activity points, I earned 20 of them. I walked every day except Sunday, and I used my Gazelle when it rained. I made a conscious choice to do what was right and what was necessary to lose some of this junk in my trunk.<br /><br />So.....I went to the meeting, kind of nervous about that first weigh-in. I have dieted many, many times, only to find that all my hard work was for naught. I went in, stepped up on the scale, and the lovely WW lady looked at me, then looked at the scale reading, then looked at me again with this strange look. I thought something was wrong, so I got off and got back on, and she said "I have to get out my calculator, you lost so much!!" I was in shock. I was expecting maybe a pound or two. My grand total for week 1's loss? 8.2 pounds, baby!!!!! E-i-g-h-t point t-w-o!!! I was on cloud nine!!<br /><br />I'm still on program, I'm still walking (got two miles in today, as matter of fact), and think I might have finally found something that works for me. I'm giving it the old college try, that's for sure. I'm working hard to get in the right number of servings of fruits, veggies, and dairy...but I'm still struggling with the oils. I don't eat much oil.<br /><br />Now I know that every week won't be like that, and I know that it will usually be in that 1-2 pound loss (but I'll take ANY loss). I'm not getting my hopes up for that because it didn't take me overnight to become this big, so it will not be overnight for me to lose it all. I'm patient, though. Someday you'll see me sashay through the streets of Terrell (yes, that's right, I will SASHAY) and wonder where the other half of me went. Promise. :)Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-65889428640780063912009-08-05T18:34:00.003-05:002009-08-05T18:49:42.234-05:00Little Drummer Boys<h3>2 Samuel 6:5 (New International Version)</h3> <p> <sup id="en-NIV-8163" class="versenum" value="5">5</sup> David and the whole house of Israel were celebrating with all their might before the LORD, with songs and with harps, lyres, tambourines, sistrums and cymbals.</p><br /><br />OK, well maybe not so little...but they certainly fit the drummer boy bill. Here is the bulk of the 2009-2010 Fighting Tiger Drum Line. There are a couple not pictured (one broke a toe and one has strep throat). They already sound good to me, and band camp is only a few days old. Today they were marching up and down the drive along the back of the high school, which happens to go by my building and my office window. I was surreptitiously taking pictures so as not to embarrass that snare player in the front with the green shirt...he'd never forgive me if the other guys saw his mom taking pictures of practice, I'm sure. ;)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGNMAHLdQ2xm3barmAEGCD-zS85v-LMqLHb_xrHrDE6BKOzNXg_OXAyT5FNYZ-K9_6SV2qSoSzsMMzliY0ycEKnnbH04m5gk0ZAbKQCzxoUdEdiE94uBar6AuiLebUkyjOcmBqullZ7Zh/s1600-h/drumline.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGNMAHLdQ2xm3barmAEGCD-zS85v-LMqLHb_xrHrDE6BKOzNXg_OXAyT5FNYZ-K9_6SV2qSoSzsMMzliY0ycEKnnbH04m5gk0ZAbKQCzxoUdEdiE94uBar6AuiLebUkyjOcmBqullZ7Zh/s320/drumline.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366630388107700274" border="0" /></a>Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-27685151009371287142009-08-04T06:19:00.002-05:002009-08-04T06:28:57.163-05:00Off and RunningActs 20:7<br />On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight.<br /><br />Back to work yesterday...and it was great to be back. I was afraid I'd be all discombobulated from being on vacation so long, but it's like a bicycle. ;)<br /><br />Weight Watchers meeting was last night...and my first weigh in. I'll have to let you know the results on Wednesday, but it's good, so look for that coming this week. <br /><br />Band practice is every morning at 7:00 now...they go 7-11 and then 1:30-3:30. Two a days, if you will. The show is going to be AWESOME this year. The music is "Scheherazade" from 1001 Nights. I can't wait to hear it every morning from my office at the high school. They practice right behind my building so I always hear it. I wish I was musically inclined, but unfortunately, I can't even play the triangle. ;) I'll try to get a shot of them practicing and then post it up for today.<br /><br />J.P. came home from camp yesterday afternoon. He had a wonderful time and was completely hoarse. He said he lost his voice screaming for the band and screaming at the girls to be quiet. ;) He told me about the fun things they did, and then told me about the groups and their meetings and devotionals. He learned 11 new bible verses. He also opened up and told me that in one group they discussed fears, and his fear right now is when André goes off to college and leaves him here...he said he won't have another guy here to "teach him how to do stuff." He actually cried. It was so sweet. Most of the time they just fight like cats and dogs...but I know deep down they love each other and that J.P. looks up to André very much.Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8833124499298739119.post-31287897564513912212009-08-02T21:17:00.004-05:002009-08-02T21:58:12.999-05:00Summer Ends...School Begins<strong><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=2&chapter=35&verse=2&version=31&context=verse">Exodus 35:2</a></strong><br />For six days, <b>work</b> is to be done, but the seventh day shall be your holy day, a Sabbath of rest to the LORD.<br /><br />Sadly, today is my last day of summer vacation. Tomorrow I must report back to work at THS. Now don't get me wrong...I LOVE my job and am truly blessed to work with a group of amazing ladies and wonderful kids that make it not seem like work at all. Heck, I'm truly blessed to work at all in these tough economic times!<br /><br />I have really enjoyed the last six weeks I've had off with the kids. I've accomplished most of what I wanted to do, and I have had some very restful moments along with some wonderful and exciting ones. I wouldn't mind it going on a few more weeks, that's for sure!<br /><br />HOWEVER...<br /><br />I am really looking forward to this year. My head is full of new ideas and lots of motivation to try new things with my students. I am starting a new support group for my Project HOPE student parents, so that they can not only cope with teen parenthood a little better, but also earn "Baby Bucks" to spend in our new Parent Pantry on diapers, wipes, and other necessary baby items (we always need diapers and wipes for the pantry if you feel led to donate!).<br /><br />I pray that this is going to be a wonderful and effective year for all my students. Yes, we face some tough times and many challenges, but I have faith that we will overcome the obstacles and come out in early June having accomplished what we set out to do at Project HOPE keep students in school and get them across the stage at graduation, despite their circumstances.<br /><br />Here are a few of my favorite pics I've taken at work. You'll have to click on the pics to see the whole image...they look funny on here but you can see the whole shot when you click on it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/jaden.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 800px;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/jaden.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/2-28-06.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 480px;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/2-28-06.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/rara.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 485px;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/rara.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/paola-bashful-bw.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5276/2040/1600/paola-bashful-bw.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://laurielblack.smugmug.com/photos/52444478_K6y8h-O.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 485px;" src="http://laurielblack.smugmug.com/photos/52444478_K6y8h-O.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Laurie Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09773753148339999395noreply@blogger.com0