tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204173283155872052024-03-12T22:28:45.279-05:00the west of what's aroundallisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.comBlogger374125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-86658197502545199802017-04-19T23:30:00.000-05:002017-04-19T23:30:50.516-05:00Whats In Store Summer's Coming and Swim Cover Up Advice<div style="text-align: center;">
Welcome Back to week 2 of What's In Store!</div>
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It's a new blog series that allows me to shop with you where you are--and see what we find together. </div>
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Before I show you what I was looking for this week, first let me thank you for your support. </div>
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Last week's post was so fun to put together and even more fun sharing with y'all. </div>
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The comments on facebook and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/awestaround/">Instagram </a>were great and I got some good suggestions about real things you want to see. So, thank you for coming along on this ride and for commenting. </div>
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Sometimes its nice to know someone is reading your words, otherwise it just seems like a whole lot of trouble to go in order to talk to yourself. :) </div>
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Okay, so on to this week and What's In Store--</div>
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(If you want to go back and check out last week's post and a little explanation of what we're about to do <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2017/04/whats-in-store-easter-dresses-and-more.html">click here</a>) </div>
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Also, some real-life info about real-life me:</div>
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I'm a size 8 approximately 17% of the time. </div>
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I'm a size 10 usually about 74% of the time. </div>
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I'm a size 12 about 26% of the time. </div>
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I was never good at math. :)</div>
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This typically makes me a size Large, so that's your reference point. </div>
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I'm 5'8" and I would love to tell you I weigh 136 pounds. I don't, but I'd still love to tell you that. </div>
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I'm a summertime girl. </div>
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You will never hear me say, "Yay! It's officially boots, jeans and cozy sweater season!!"</div>
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Other things I won't say while we're checking out What's In Store:</div>
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1. "I sized up to a small."</div>
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2. "At $148 this top is a steal!"</div>
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3. "I can't wait to wear this blanket scarf with my Hunter Boots!"</div>
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I will never, ever suggest we wear $100 slippers or carry $300 tote bags to the pool.</div>
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While those things might be normal for some people, you won't find any of that here. I just go shopping where I like to shop and where others like me might like to shop and we see What's In Store. </div>
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So here we go....</div>
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This week I was in TJ Maxx (Brook Highland on 280 in Birmingham, AL) and really had beach-brain.</div>
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Y'all.</div>
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I never buy long dresses but they had such a great selection that I was drawn over and I loved this one!</div>
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It makes me want to go to dinner in Maui or on a cruise (which will never happen because I don't think Joseph will ever get on a boat that he isn't driving!)</div>
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I tried on a Large and it was just right.</div>
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I wanted to look for some coverups for throwing on to take the kids to the pool and beach and to wear on the boat when we go in and out of <strike>bars </strike> restaurants. </div>
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I first tried on this Michael Kors Striped Day dress. </div>
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It was okay, but not what I needed. If the sleeves on this were different I would have bought it just to wear anytime. It was well made and comfortable, but I am not a fan of this short sleeve.</div>
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Sleeveless? Always.</div>
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3/4 sleeve? Sure!</div>
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Short and cap sleeves are not my friend. </div>
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Moving on!</div>
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Then I remembered talking with a friend last week at the pool and she said she always goes to the junior department at TJ Maxx to get coverups. The dresses in the junior's department are usually cheaper and the length is right for a cover up, so here we go....</div>
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she was right! I found 2 cute options and they were both 16.99 or less! I did a large in the striped dress and an XL in the off the shoulder tassel dress (top?)</div>
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I have to say, this may be the best 7.99 purchase I've found</div>
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Its a Mossimo shirt, but it will make a great cover up for the boat. Its a heathered slub tee with these huge slits in the side. It's just what I need to have in my boat bag!</div>
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Also, I ran into another friend while I was on my way to the dressing room (Hey, Liz!) and she mentioned that she had this top and loves it.</div>
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So, that was quick and easy and fun! I found a great dinner/summer/cruise/vacation dress and three cute, simple cover up options in no time. Nothing over $25 and they had tons of each of these at this TJ Maxx right near the front. Head in this weekend and I'll bet you can see them there. (I tried to find them online for you but had no luck, but I did see lots more cute things on the TJ Maxx website that I may try soon!)</div>
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Let me know what you're shopping for and we can shop together in next Thursday's What's In Store post!!</div>
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allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-12397090085013329432017-04-17T22:53:00.000-05:002017-04-17T22:53:20.473-05:00Easter Morning and Easter Fun<div style="text-align: center;">
We had an absolutely beautiful Easter Morning and I hope you and your family did too!</div>
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We started well before dawn with goodies from the Easter Bunny, some shows on <a href="http://fbuy.me/flpPT">JellyTelly </a>all about Easter and then a hunt in the front yard once the sun came up.</div>
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We got ready for church to celebrate the most glorious gift of love, the miracle of a risen savior. </div>
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Church was wonderful and nearly brought both Lizzy and I to happy tears.</div>
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I have to say one of the more joyful moments of the morning was getting to church and seeing that the flowers hadn't fallen. </div>
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This was the first year I have been on the Flower Guild for Easter. One of my assignments were these arrangements on the main doors of our sanctuary.</div>
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They were beautiful and somewhat heavy and I was less than confident when I left the church on Saturday that they would make it through the night.</div>
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But Glory be! </div>
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They survived. I literally breathed a sigh of relief as crested the hill to church and could see them as we approached. </div>
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After church we had lunch with Joseph's family then came home to spend the rest of the day eating candy and complaining of tummy aches. </div>
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I will say the lunch was tasty and I made a delicious potato salad!</div>
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And I can't forget Lizzy's sweet Easter party on Thursday! I realized when I left that this is her last preschool party--and MINE! Oh, what a happy time it has been!</div>
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I hope you and your family had a wonderful weekend, too! </div>
allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-13076847281290201232017-04-13T23:24:00.000-05:002017-04-13T23:24:37.681-05:00Friday Favorites- Easter Cupcakes, Tea and A New Dress For Me<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwQ5GdYjNgQtG1MVFSH3s3owjAuW9XvDrvdVcNWEIoUH0DrEeumryeyUv-T-pwhSaF7owmfNCU-fVSX_vPF3JiNqEkjG3XOplphHfmv9z7wJhbrDNbN2SZiX5VRucaBkVnKKb6REzSZH4/s320/friday+favorites+flower+look.jpeg" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">I'm linking up <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/">here</a> today to show you some of my favorite things this week!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Thanks for stopping by and let me know what you're loving too! </span><br />
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My favorite thing I made this week was these Easter Cupcakes for Lizzy's class Easter Party....<br />
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Jelly Bird Eggs and a handle made from Spree Rope candy. Lizzy watched a YouTube video and wanted to make them and they turned out just great!<br />
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My favorite beverage of the week has been this....<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bigelow-Benefits-Blueberry-Aloe-Herbal/dp/B01MDMDYT9/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1492139987&sr=8-4&keywords=bigelow+radiate&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=3ab92f97683f5cca368a2ae502e46e34" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B01MDMDYT9&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B01MDMDYT9" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/2pfedLh">Bigelow Benefits Radiate Beauty</a><br />
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I have been loving this tea all week! I bought it a month or 2 ago as I usually get on a "tea kick", drink a few cups then go months without it but I'm on my second box of this and could still drink it all day long, hot or cold. The neat thing is....<br />
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It's pretty! It tastes great and its this pretty shade of magenta.<br />
I'm not sure that its actually going to make me radiant, but I think its great!<br />
(I also like <a href="http://amzn.to/2osiGdN">this one </a>at night for sleep.)<br />
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And I got the comfiest dress this week and have worn it already and love it!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J3qbSJfuYRg/WO5qN_mQKCI/AAAAAAAAL-k/BojgfZ6oLeUqthgw1AROtdoRQCm_PxyngCPcB/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J3qbSJfuYRg/WO5qN_mQKCI/AAAAAAAAL-k/BojgfZ6oLeUqthgw1AROtdoRQCm_PxyngCPcB/s400/%255BUNSET%255D" width="300" /></a></div>
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I blogged all about this shopping trip and started a fun new Thursday series called <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2017/04/whats-in-store-easter-dresses-and-more.html">What's In Store</a> you can <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2017/04/whats-in-store-easter-dresses-and-more.html">read the full post here</a>.<br />
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Thanks so much for all of your kind words and support from this post!<br />
I am already looking forward to next Thursday's edition!<br />
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Those are my quick favorites on this Good Friday.<br />
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I hope all of you have a wonderful Easter weekend celebrating the glory of God<br />
and our risen savior, Jesus Christ!<br />
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allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-65402394808412868402017-04-13T00:00:00.000-05:002017-04-13T00:00:34.311-05:00What's In Store--Easter Dresses and More<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey y'all!</div>
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After a fun week of Spring Break and then a surprise weather day last week, I looked up and realized we were a few days away from Easter and while I have everything ready to go for the kids Easter outfits--I hadn't yet shopped for myself.</div>
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Having just a few hours of "freedom" on each week while the kids were at school I ran to a few of my favorite places to see what I could find. My quick search led me to Stein Mart where I found some cute options and definitely some inspiration. But more on that later.</div>
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I snapped a few quick pics in the dressing room since I was caught between two cute options and needed to do some polling (send them to my sister-in-law for her opinion! ha!)</div>
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I loved <a href="https://www.steinmart.com/product/striped+seersucker+crochet+panel+shift+dress+62055710.do?sortby=ourPicksAscend&page=3&refType=&from=fn&selectedOption=100272&ecList=7&ecCategory=100273">this Seersucker Dress</a> and it's so springy and fun!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HM-UdRuVCwk/WO5uoOrEwNI/AAAAAAAAL_A/zzn4krztF94Sty89NbVEhHPMBgnWJMvMgCPcB/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HM-UdRuVCwk/WO5uoOrEwNI/AAAAAAAAL_A/zzn4krztF94Sty89NbVEhHPMBgnWJMvMgCPcB/s400/%255BUNSET%255D" width="300" /></a></div>
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I also think this Navy Dress is classic and is a silhouette that knows no wrong!</div>
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One of these did end up coming home with me as did these shoes.</div>
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There were TONS of beige and nude shoe options and the location I was at, I'm sure your local Stein Mart is well-stocked too.</div>
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As I was headed to the checkout I passed the cutest top in the Boutique section, turned on my heels, grabbed one and a few pairs of white jeans and headed to the dressing room.</div>
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I had to snap a pic for a friend because up until now I have not owned any white jeans and she has the perfect pair that I think are close to 10 years old. I wanted to show her I was taking the plunge myself.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOqpb5BIaVo/WO5qOSwy6nI/AAAAAAAAL-k/RSbhG8AUgJEREE26UZ_PlAg57b49xO7bQCPcB/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOqpb5BIaVo/WO5qOSwy6nI/AAAAAAAAL-k/RSbhG8AUgJEREE26UZ_PlAg57b49xO7bQCPcB/s400/%255BUNSET%255D" width="300" /></a></div>
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Also, I got this whole outfit. I'll be wearing <a href="https://www.steinmart.com/product/ruffle+front+sleeveless+poplin+blouse+63202345.do?sortby=ourPicksAscend&page=2&refType=&from=fn&selectedOption=100155&ecList=7&ecCategory=100327#">this top</a> so much y'all will think its my uniform this summer. I've already planned 8 times I want to wear it.</div>
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I ran back in to Stein Mart another day and found <a href="https://www.steinmart.com/product/chambray+shirt+dress+61760807.do?sortby=priceAscend&refType=&from=fn&selectedOption=100155&ecList=7&ecCategory=100274">this dress.</a> </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXCzsuemYCU/WO5qOIX-K7I/AAAAAAAAL-k/nh5axLsx_nALUc6c7Rfo4feCgtT44QVoACPcB/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXCzsuemYCU/WO5qOIX-K7I/AAAAAAAAL-k/nh5axLsx_nALUc6c7Rfo4feCgtT44QVoACPcB/s400/%255BUNSET%255D" width="300" /></a></div>
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I really wasn't going to buy anything this day but, y'all this dress is so SO soft and comfortable and a great length for errands/mom stuff. </div>
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When you find that combo in a cute dress you grab one now! (Also, they were just unloading these at me Stein Mart so I am certain you can find them today/this weekend at your store but they will go fast.)</div>
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I've had a few chambray dresses over the years and I know I'll be wearing this once a week until Thanksgiving. Since its under $50 that makes is about the best deal in town!</div>
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I also tried on this dress because I am a sucker for the fit and flare!</div>
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Super cute and I can probably think of another 10 places to wear it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_WzrHS5hqDTs6qolx6gtA1D8wb_HLGZ1S5yYcU4tivo7QYEmdyZR5F8YDWfavSKnVIW4c0IWy2aKD-93fzbT_zehzflDHcQUnr4zUeCAnr6LA6fKgT6zOM1eFgpEvvBCT2HQc8gtLTWr/s1600/fit+flare+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_WzrHS5hqDTs6qolx6gtA1D8wb_HLGZ1S5yYcU4tivo7QYEmdyZR5F8YDWfavSKnVIW4c0IWy2aKD-93fzbT_zehzflDHcQUnr4zUeCAnr6LA6fKgT6zOM1eFgpEvvBCT2HQc8gtLTWr/s400/fit+flare+2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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This blush sleeveless top was perfection and the pintuck pleats are so flattering! Perfect with my new white jeans!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjET7xbbSz-slf97PgZl34qDMzJ3INEKzfASQGVnmj8Pw0MCjhz22mcudwUkM9vOQ5uIM4GVuukw8EEXXUCicCgBkroXtmoaDuIap0NoLgljiQ6mHgJCbT9H3Fwxk2E8PUpOFrmCIkAHh1Z/s1600/pink+to+p+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjET7xbbSz-slf97PgZl34qDMzJ3INEKzfASQGVnmj8Pw0MCjhz22mcudwUkM9vOQ5uIM4GVuukw8EEXXUCicCgBkroXtmoaDuIap0NoLgljiQ6mHgJCbT9H3Fwxk2E8PUpOFrmCIkAHh1Z/s320/pink+to+p+2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Oh boy was I on the fence on this one! I said I wasn't going to jump on the off-the-shoulder bandwagon.....but if I do this is the top that will buy my ticket!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQFQQDMPY6x5mquu5GXEcTWLTgkyTz3aBgXKlYNGS8SNqIZz588tnHLXXdcPZYR7iFscINDNFZgpCcY27DriYXqpIWGQjPHf9mWV3lBzPbAZDuonp-qOOiLxV59guza-tdOjDyPnAbQru/s1600/off+shoulder+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQFQQDMPY6x5mquu5GXEcTWLTgkyTz3aBgXKlYNGS8SNqIZz588tnHLXXdcPZYR7iFscINDNFZgpCcY27DriYXqpIWGQjPHf9mWV3lBzPbAZDuonp-qOOiLxV59guza-tdOjDyPnAbQru/s400/off+shoulder+2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I love the stripes, the ruffle sleeve and the cut on this one. It falls away from your body without looking oversized and boxy. This one was a Large with plenty of room, I can possibly take a Medium in this which makes it that more tempting! They were just unloading this one too, so pop in to Stein Mart and try it on this weekend!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB2vjTC3b1jcF3T2_zdWbp7vSGd21dsGwc-IuRidCQaP6gn73PwBt3tNelATgQKF5OqVyc-lotZQscAIDZ59XOdvFIiJ3WEKsTAfQ4coYdJE9tVmCkIaOEB5jBr-ARM2CqesdsaVKWpQe1/s1600/off+shoulder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB2vjTC3b1jcF3T2_zdWbp7vSGd21dsGwc-IuRidCQaP6gn73PwBt3tNelATgQKF5OqVyc-lotZQscAIDZ59XOdvFIiJ3WEKsTAfQ4coYdJE9tVmCkIaOEB5jBr-ARM2CqesdsaVKWpQe1/s400/off+shoulder.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Now, here's the inspiration behind this post. I was chatting with a friend (Hi, Ashley!) recently and we were talking about clothes and shopping and how we see cute things online but neither of us love the fact that often things featured are quite expensive and if they aren't then they are sold out and back ordered by the time we find them. </div>
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Then, while I was shopping and taking pictures to text anyway it occurred to me that <b>THIS</b> kind of feature is what I would like. A weekly feature with things that are </div>
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1. Beautiful</div>
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2. Affordable</div>
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3. Attainable<br />
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So many of us have little time to shop for ourselves and when we do we are on a "quest" to find something specific. That's where the blog comes in. I'll be out scouting for us and on Thursdays I'll post to show you What's In Store(s) this weekend while you are running out in your free moments.<br />
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Stein Mart is one of my happy places, so I've started this series by posting some of what I found there that you too might like. Stein Mart (as of now) isn't sponsoring any of this content, nor are any of the items linked affiliate links that would earn money for me. They're just for fun and ease-of-shopping for my friends here. </div>
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So, enjoy! Happy Shopping! Tell me where you want me to shop for us and I may head there next week!</div>
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Let me know what you like by leaving a comment here or on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/awestaround/">Instagram</a>!</div>
allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-62752484055159632762017-04-11T09:30:00.002-05:002017-04-12T15:59:29.505-05:00Gifts for Easter Baskets<div style="text-align: center;">
It's Already Tuesday of Holy Week, I can't believe Easter is this Sunday. </div>
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Luckily, I sat down last night and finished up shopping for the kids Easter baskets and all of my items will be here on Wednesday. If you're wondering what to put in kid's baskets or looking for a gift for the boy who has everything and the girl who loves it all then keep reading and you can shop from here and have your goodies quicker than you can do the bunny hop. </div>
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For Jay- my ourdoorsy 6 year old boy who loves hunting and fishing I picked up this <a href="http://amzn.to/2pppMyU">minnow net</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GJ1Z3VY/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=b86d9212ec732e31f195c4426aef2c3f" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B01GJ1Z3VY&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B01GJ1Z3VY" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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I saw this at a friends house and love it because it fold up like an umbrella! Perfect to take with you fishing and it's different from any other minnow traps we have. </div>
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I had ordered this for Jay yesterday and he literally got in the car after school talking about these and wanted me to find him one! Another item a neighbor showed me last week that the Easter Bunny will deliver!<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WLGW59Z/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B06WLGW59Z&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=39a39c910fded7be27686045f7bd8c4c" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B06WLGW59Z&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B06WLGW59Z" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WLGW59Z/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B06WLGW59Z&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=84f8cc632856e7789d7ea352bed003fe" target="_blank">Toplay Fidget Spinner Toy Stress Reducer Ceramic Bearing - Perfect For ADD, ADHD, Anxiety, and Autism Adult Children (Fluorescence)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B06WLGW59Z" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> I have heard these are awesome if you have a little boy and exteremly helpful if you have a little one who struggles with a learning disability or learns differently, or have someone on the ADD/ADHD or Autism spectrum. You can spin them to fidget and learn cool tricks with them. I'm thinking if you have a little guy who like the bottle flip game then this will save everyone a few gray hairs!<br />
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Since he's a new reader I also picked up two classic chocolate-themed books for him. </div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142410314/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=bb347bc2780844ee01caa2a1afec1c1e" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0142410314&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=0142410314" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/2nAHpiy">Charlie and the Chocolate Factory</a> (we are just finishing <a href="http://amzn.to/2ppEKVz">James and the Giant Peach</a> so the timing is perfect!)</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688161332/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=1660e4bdc403981ebcc6a3188c7c5947" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0688161332&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=0688161332" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/2ppszrF">The Chocolate Touch</a> is only $3.03, you cant beat the price on these books1</div>
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For Lizzy, who is now 5 and loves all of her dolls, every Barbie and toys of all kinds I got her <a href="http://amzn.to/2omw96z">this doll seat for her bike. </a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UIATJA/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=b096eea4ebd8a8f3da143198d92b8217" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B004UIATJA&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B004UIATJA" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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Books for Lizzy who is starting to read and spell and working on sight words- </div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062352156/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=a621299c419cc102811df47e8cc1b075" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0062352156&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=0062352156" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/2ppKuyx">Pinkalicious Boxed Set</a></div>
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and Barbie</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0449816664/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=4db96ab649013bf58404f7679f66fc14" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0449816664&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=0449816664" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/2nZS9mf">Barbie I Can Be....(Story Collection)</a></div>
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I also picked up a chocolate bunny for each child, some Reese's candies and a kite for each one. </div>
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I started off sort of stumped but love how it all came together! If you still need to shop for your little ones then hop to it! </div>
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What's your favorite Easter Candy? Mine is obviously Reese's--it always finds its way from their baskets to my secret stash eventually.</div>
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Happy (early) Easter, everyone!</div>
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p.s. this post contains affiliate links. Thanks for supporting the blog!</div>
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<br />allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-30898714970646015362017-04-05T20:59:00.001-05:002017-04-05T20:59:59.486-05:00Lizzy's 5- Shimmer and Shine!<div style="text-align: center;">
We got to celebrate my littlest little turning 5 a few weeks ago.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHcvdegAhIRmGcLU3WszyyGH4eCO6JdlNu3xWH8HUIbnCQtBtsZMIoNj4oZ2OvHj0vjCLr7u3wnNxOaZKh1da5FBOh7CHyW9axT05wqwkvjY1mIB2DlRvk0ciUj86c8uTkpROWo0KwJJd/s1600/Lizzy+5th+Birthday+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHcvdegAhIRmGcLU3WszyyGH4eCO6JdlNu3xWH8HUIbnCQtBtsZMIoNj4oZ2OvHj0vjCLr7u3wnNxOaZKh1da5FBOh7CHyW9axT05wqwkvjY1mIB2DlRvk0ciUj86c8uTkpROWo0KwJJd/s400/Lizzy+5th+Birthday+015.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Alas, she's already registered for Kindergarten, full of knowledge and independence and there are in fact no more babies in our house.</div>
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In the days leading up to her birthday, I begged her to stay 4. I told her what a gift it was that I got to have two kids and they got to be babies together and how fun it was. How we loved watching them grow, but if she could just stop now, it would be awesome. </div>
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On the eve of her birthday she sweetly tried to talk some sense into me explaining, "Mom. I know you loved me being 4 but I just can't help it. Tomorrow I'll be 5. It's okay, I had to turn into a teenager sometime."</div>
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Oh Lulu, you keep us laughing!</div>
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We took cupcakes to school for her class and I actually subbed that day at school so I got to be in her room for the celebratory snack and singing. </div>
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We had dinner at Moe's Southwest Grill (per Lizzy's request) and just a little cake at home on her big day. </div>
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Sometime around New Year's Day it was declared that she wanted a Shimmer and Shine birthday. Sounds great to me, I really like letting the kids pick what they want for their parties so the theme was set. </div>
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As for her guest list, Lizzy just wanted to invite "every little girl in America". Whatttt?!?!?</div>
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She later amended her list to "just all the little girls in America that I know." We wound up inviting about 20 with 15 friends joining us for party day. </div>
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FIFTEEN tiny girly-girls. It was a giggly, singing, shimmer and shining good time! </div>
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I kept it simple with a cake from the Western that was simple BUT SO VERY DELICIOUS!!!</div>
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We also had ice cream, cheese and crackers and fruit.<br />
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And every little girls dream--face painting at our house! </div>
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We had the most WONDERFUL face painter in Birmingham. Seriously, she was fast and so fun and sweet to the girls and prompt and so TALENTED! We used <a href="http://www.magiccityfaceart.com/">Magic City Face Art</a> if you need face painting in Birmingham call them! </div>
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We played a <a href="http://amzn.to/2n7Vcx5">Shimmer and Shine Party Game</a>, sang Happy Birthday and opened gifts. </div>
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It was a great party, lots of fun for the girls.</div>
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They played with every toy in our house, a few cried and I heard at least one got a little spanking from her mommy. But you know what? It was awesome. We're so thankful for the friends we have made and our kids have at school and church and around town. Crazy, loud, fun days like this one remind me of how thankful we are for these kids!</div>
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For more Birthday fun check out these posts:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2016/05/lizzys-4th-birthday.html">Lizzy turns </a>4! Build A Bear Birthday</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2015/04/peppa-pig-party-for-lizzy.html">Lizzy turns 3! Peppa Pig Birthday Party</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2014/03/lizzys-2nd-birthday.html">Lizzy turns 2! Pink Party</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2013/03/somebunnys-one-party-stuff.html">Lizzy's 1st Birthday Somebunny's One Bunny Party</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jay's Birthdays</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2011/07/jays-first-birthday.html">Jay's 1st Birthday</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2012/07/2-infinity-and-beyond.html">Jay's 2 Infinity and Beyond Toy Story Birthday</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2013/07/super-jay-is-super-3-party.html">Jay turns 3! Super Why Birthday for Super Jay</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2014/07/jay-is-four.html">Jay turns 4! Ice Cream Birthday Party</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2015/10/jays-5th-birthday-summer-ep-5.html">Jay turns 5 Big Boats and Big Fish Birthday</a></div>
allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-79315357825238756192017-02-02T13:56:00.002-06:002017-02-02T14:27:15.698-06:00Monday, Manners, Meatballs and Moderntone<div style="text-align: center;">Last Monday I was finishing up some <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2017/01/valentines-day-decorations-2017.html">Valentine's Day decorating</a> and finally switched out some of our dishes for our collection of pink Moderntone. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Since I had them out I decided Monday would be a good time to have a little dinner party with the family.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L8USSa2dJXk/WJOWHsSa3XI/AAAAAAAAL3Y/3RhIX6F_dKY/I/photo_728185.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Now, we do this fairly often. I wouldn't say once a month but maybe every 6 weeks or so. I set up our dinner in the dining room with real dishes and flatware (no character cups and crazy straws) we use our real napkins and practice our table manners. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Every</i></b> time I am setting it up my kids have this freaked-out moment--</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>"Are we having company? "Who's coming for dinner?" "Why are we using these napkins?" "Why are we in the dining room?" </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Every single time.<br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Which is another reason why we do it--to actually USE our dining room, to USE our different dishes, to USE our best manners, to BE together and focus on the meal.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ounmNSkv4pg/WJOWIrcAXOI/AAAAAAAAL3c/UwgU3qzzbfU/I/photo_902715.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">So, I set a pretty pink table, served an amazing meal--can you say FRIED CHICKEN MEATBALLS.</div><div style="text-align: center;">They were every bit as amazing as they sound. I found the recipe in a new cookbook I picked up <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/162634342X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=162634342X&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=946112508d293aface1731abea514b2c" target="_blank">Well Fed Weeknights: Complete Paleo Meals in 45 Minutes or Less</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=162634342X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Y'all. This is a Whole30/Paleo cookbook that's out of this world. All of the meals come together in 45 minutes and so far are awesome. Her method for cooking potatoes in a crock pot and having them ready to quickly add as a side or make into fries is a game changer!!! I have been eating/cooking Whole30 for a year now and this potato trick has given me new life! Buy the book!! $16 well spent!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/162634342X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=162634342X&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=369900c6b05cb17475cb33a1722b2e94" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=162634342X&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=162634342X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We are having those meatballs again tonight--even the world's pickiest 4 year old gobbled them up and wanted seconds! Buy the book, make the meatballs, thank me later!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have to say, I'm thankful for our dining room dinners and I hope the kids remember these nights. I can tell you that I know they remember their manners (at least some of them) after we teach them new things because they can easily tell you where their glasses and flatware should go before and during their meals. Even if they don't do it all the time, they know the rules and it is a little bit of a relief to know that they do remember some things we're teaching them. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div><br></div>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-19302363358790053562017-01-23T18:04:00.004-06:002017-01-24T06:01:03.609-06:00Seasonal Reads for the Family- Valentine's Day Books<div style="text-align: center;">Okay with a 1st Grade boy and a Preschool girl we read ALOT at our house. I love Christmastime because we have 20-30 Christmas books to choose from so the stories of the season never get old.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Now that Christmas decorations are all packed away and we are decorating for Valentine's Day I wanted to add to our seasonal library. Here are my picks for Valentine's Day reading for young readers! I'm already loving what we've gotten!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061235962/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061235962&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=9ca2f8b45fa093b729903189ef913ddf" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0061235962&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0061235962" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061235962/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061235962&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=36bc562ff04826fe2b57ce676a754af6" target="_blank">Fancy Nancy: Heart to Heart is only $3.57 and ships Prime!</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0061235962" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061804320/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061804320&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=42e9360cdc0bf888e6618f4f1b5a9d45" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0061804320&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0061804320" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061804320/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061804320&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=d8b8d36d908ca96828576b3ac69420b3" target="_blank">Happy Valentine's Day, Mouse! (If You Give...)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0061804320" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061989231/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061989231&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=00f5ff57345c9f6b0f6895994c8b7de4" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0061989231&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0061989231" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061989231/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061989231&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=ba338fa73d02a1fda77a4d15e444948f" target="_blank">Pinkalicious: Pink of Hearts</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0061989231" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"> This one comes with a poster and punch out Valentine exchange cards!<br><br><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Valentines-Day-Charlie-Brown-ebook/dp/B00TBKUX4S/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485216229&sr=1-2&keywords=Charlie+Brown+valentine&linkCode=li2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=e0a2fb0d27910f5f17c273be0d4bd150" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00TBKUX4S&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B00TBKUX4S" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"><br><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1481441337/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1481441337&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=5a8bf10d622e6907d2ebf065aeb9e79b" target="_blank">Happy Valentine's Day, Charlie Brown! This Reader is under $3!</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=1481441337" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062430610/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062430610&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=3cbe2b71675c73960637af00ee23880f" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0062430610&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0062430610" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062430610/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062430610&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=73db3fbf145c9645e9244f3428372747" target="_blank">Pete the Cat's Groovy Guide to Love</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0062430610" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"> Both of my kids love Pete the Cat and I can't wait to read these with them!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062198653/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062198653&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=1f4e2b70fbaa9c75b4c1cc12d3e390d2" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0062198653&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0062198653" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062198653/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062198653&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=49bcc26f4e99bab3935731942e7ab266" target="_blank">Pete the Cat: Valentine's Day Is Cool</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0062198653" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062086545/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062086545&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=9db2ea42795d4d99ca85c9ca4de34812" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0062086545&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0062086545" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062086545/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062086545&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=8cdbe87a5ae4d812a021ed65d90081da" target="_blank">Alvin and the Chipmunks: A Chipmunk Valentine</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0062086545" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"> I'm sure Alvin and the gang will be a treat for my boy and girl reader.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688152201/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0688152201&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=a596cc74a4cc49e7af2f2cf2b0910984" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0688152201&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0688152201" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688152201/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0688152201&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=9399b76c138f838f40118ed438a1df94" target="_blank">Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0688152201" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"> Something tells me Jay is really going to like this one.....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310734894/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0310734894&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=4da49842f21301db7051b4077ab3105f" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0310734894&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0310734894" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310734894/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0310734894&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=d932f9dfa6e329f949db3331a184a7dc" target="_blank">The Berenstain Bears' Valentine Blessings (Berenstain Bears/Living Lights)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0310734894" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"> this one is another one with stickers so I am sure it will be a hit with girls!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">SO there you have it, fun characters we know well and cute stories to celebrate the season of love, friendship and kindness. Perfect picks for beginner readers and bedtime stories. I especially love that many of them have activities and stickers to make giving these books as gifts even more special! I hope y'all enjoy some of these as much as we are! Let me know what other books are popular with your family--I love getting ideas from friends too!</div><br>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-40792677188225215212017-01-23T13:34:00.001-06:002017-01-23T13:34:08.887-06:00Valentine's Day Decorations 2017<div style="text-align: center;">
I've officially put away all of the trees and Christmas decor that had been decking our halls since November and immediately put out Valentine's Day decorations because little Lizzy was so sad. </div>
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Here's a peek of what we have out so far this year!</div>
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Flowers for the front door...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIteIwCebd4dic7tZQ3FoaELgE9GBTHcG4lwrNa1Obi-OdlM_nR-HYUx52bBGiYliBI9NKF9VVUB1mmzQiwhHnqsCc-jFUSo2y16iuA8nt4Xl7RrX7yjluuvtDemJl0d3ummMm0hH2uo5/s1600/DSC_0301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIteIwCebd4dic7tZQ3FoaELgE9GBTHcG4lwrNa1Obi-OdlM_nR-HYUx52bBGiYliBI9NKF9VVUB1mmzQiwhHnqsCc-jFUSo2y16iuA8nt4Xl7RrX7yjluuvtDemJl0d3ummMm0hH2uo5/s400/DSC_0301.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dishes and dishes...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJQ1fc5Ujf71ccXoNeUlqfeI3RRli0GpaM_86lB0BXYIG7HQKJUagaBKOvC73cjhftraMOOVp7lJuqGy-8F2MOCEf5jJUJCTYWAZJ77kcyfDg25VfgDquxuJMoWvB_4bdWOFqyaaqrrJE/s1600/DSC_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJQ1fc5Ujf71ccXoNeUlqfeI3RRli0GpaM_86lB0BXYIG7HQKJUagaBKOvC73cjhftraMOOVp7lJuqGy-8F2MOCEf5jJUJCTYWAZJ77kcyfDg25VfgDquxuJMoWvB_4bdWOFqyaaqrrJE/s400/DSC_0333.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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These are all from Target years and years ago</div>
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....and these are Pottery Barn Kids from last year. </div>
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I still need to switch out our dishes and get out my pink Moderntone dishes.....and according to Lizzy we need to add lots more Valentine things because "we don't even have one single tree up or anything!" Haha! Sweet girl loved all of the Christmas stuff and this has made her want more, more, more! </div>
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Happy Valentining and Decorating y'all! </div>
allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-81624598241177889002017-01-19T21:17:00.000-06:002017-01-19T21:17:05.392-06:00Friday Favorites<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwQ5GdYjNgQtG1MVFSH3s3owjAuW9XvDrvdVcNWEIoUH0DrEeumryeyUv-T-pwhSaF7owmfNCU-fVSX_vPF3JiNqEkjG3XOplphHfmv9z7wJhbrDNbN2SZiX5VRucaBkVnKKb6REzSZH4/s320/friday+favorites+flower+look.jpeg" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">I'm linking up <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/">here</a> today to show you some of my favorite things this week!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Thanks for stopping by and let me know what you're loving too! </span><br />
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Its Friday again and we couldn't be happier! I do love linking up and sharing ideas with friends. Its probably my favorite part of the interweb. :) So, here are some of my favorite things this week!</div>
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I'm in week 2 of a new bible study--<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1430051523/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1430051523&linkId=81c72568a92ffdbc5f8f137eecc6e99f">Looking for Lovely</a> at our church. I just loved what Annie Downs said in the video portion of this week's lesson. To paraphrase she was explaining how when we love someone we often see things in our everyday that remind of us of those loved ones. "Karla would love that picture." "Heather would love that shirt." "Lizzy would love that bracelet, it looks like her." Downs goes on to explain that seeing Jesus around us everyday is part of the love relationship we have with him, part of fixing our eyes on Jesus--that we see him everywhere, not just in our mind's eye or on the cross at the front of the sanctuary. I just loved that--it was probably my favorite moment of the study this week. Its my prayer and my desire to see him around this week in little moments and lessons and in the beauty I see in my town and in my people.</div>
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Of course these two little people are my very favorites and I loved sharing their <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2017/01/photos-of-family.html">fall photos here</a> this week.</div>
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I also loved sharing our fun <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2017/01/photos-of-family-super-hero-style.html">Halloween costumes and characters</a>. These two transformed in front of the camera!</div>
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This year for both sides of our family, the adults drew names for Christmas gifts. We used drawnames.com and it was quick and easy. We loved that we could register for what we wanted and knew we would get something we desired instead of "a gift for the person who has everything".</div>
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<img border="0" class="bloggoimg" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z6MLlRLFWSQ/WIF_6P3fshI/AAAAAAAAL1s/5IxSaT_3CCg/I/photo_69740.jpg" /> </div>
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I registered for <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BAYXDXA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01BAYXDXA&linkId=8c3cf736d9431b3371c4612a3b20f6b2">this robot vacuum</a> and its great! It transitions from hardwood floors to tile to slate and area rugs, handles the cleaning under beds and clawfoot tubs, can withstand a bulldog attack or two, and is simple to use.</div>
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If you've wanted one but were afraid to get one because of the price, the one I have is <b>under $200</b> and is worth it! I've been using it for a few weeks and have no problems!</div>
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And this was my favorite thing we ate this week</div>
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<a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2017/01/buffalo-shrimp.html">Buffalo Shrimp</a></div>
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I really loved how easy this was to get on the table for a weeknight meal that didn't destroy my kitchen! Sometimes we just need quick and simple while we're cooking Whole30--am I right? This recipe does the trick!</div>
allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-3662880266795285722017-01-19T20:03:00.002-06:002017-01-19T20:05:50.183-06:00Buffalo Shrimp<div><br></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Hey y'all! I needed to pack a lunch today and it was so yummy I wish I had to pack lunch more often!</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">I made the most delicious Buffalo Shrimp last night and the leftovers are awesome!!</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's all you need to make this super fast Whole30 Buffalo Shrimp-</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" class="bloggoimg" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oCpookHjvwU/WIFwe8y6j8I/AAAAAAAAL1Y/4yNNCGL-RBE/I/photo_281532.jpg"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"> 1 and 1/2 pounds Gulf Shrimp (wild caught is best)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/4 cup Texas Pete or other compliant Hot Sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp dried minced onion</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp garlic powder</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp paprika </div><div style="text-align: center;">salt and pepper</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/4 cup melted coconut oil, plus 2 tablespoons of coconut oil for pan. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Method</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">In a large bowl (preferable with lid) whisk together hot sauce and spices. Melt 1/4 cup of coconut oil in the microwave and add it to sauce mixture, making sure to whisk constantly. Add shrimp (with shells and tails on, just dump them in the bowl). Put lid on the bowl and shake to coat shrimp. Let stand 15 minutes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">While shrimp are resting in the sauce preheat oven to 400 degrees, put 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a glass casserole or 9x13 and pop it in the oven to melt the oil. Once the oil has melted add the shrimp to the pan and bake 11-13 minutes, tossing shrimp once during cooking time. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">(When you go to place the shrimp in the pan you'll notice the cold shrimp meeting the melted oil you used in the sauce has caused the coconut oil to become cakey--this is <u><b>100% fine</b></u>. I just don't want you to think something has gone wrong, its just science. ;) )</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">You could prepare the shrimp earlier in the day and let them sit in the buffalo sauce as long as you like, it will make them a bit spicier, that way all you have to do is pop them in the oven a few minutes before you're ready to eat. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I serve these with big salads and an empty bowl for shells. They are great as leftovers and can be added to omelettes, eggs, potatoes, slaw--really anything! We used ours again for omelettes--or I should say Joseph did the omelettes, that's why they are so perfect! ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vvnP5LKzKus/WIFwfaahBTI/AAAAAAAAL1c/wJXIKuJVKtY/I/photo_93231.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br> <br></div>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-17662786135217552182017-01-17T04:00:00.000-06:002017-01-17T04:00:00.270-06:00Photos of The Family- Super Hero StyleIn my last post I talked about how great and creative my friend <a href="http://www.imagesbynaomi.com/index2.php#/home/">Miriam</a> is, and today you'll see another reason I love her.<div>
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We were scheduled to take pictures the 2nd week of October. (I book the same week every single year. Like clockwork.) I got a text a few days before asking if I happened to have the kids Halloween costumes yet. (which made me laugh because, yes. Of course I did. My children pick what they want to be in July. They are earlybirds in virtually every sense of the word.)</div>
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So Miriam asked that I bring them along...maybe get a few quick shots. And oh my did my kids have fun with this!</div>
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Jay had the <i>best</i> time running around like he was Flash. Lizzy really got into her tough girl role as Wonder Woman.</div>
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I'm so glad we have these pictures! I never would have thought to use our photo time (we're always hoping for the Christmas Card pic!) to document the kids Halloween costumes. Now we've captured these awesome memories of the fun they had that evening really portraying their character for the camera.</div>
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I love the idea of a Halloween photo shoot, but more than that I love how simple this was and how it all came together!</div>
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Again the lovely and talented<a href="http://www.imagesbynaomi.com/index2.php#/home/"> Images by Naomi</a> gets all of the credit for shooting these awesome photos. </div>
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(The photos above are mine, so use them to inspire yourself, not to make money for yourself. You'll need my permission before turning this Wonder Woman or Flash into your spokesmodel.)</div>
allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-950043061176959582017-01-16T04:00:00.000-06:002017-01-16T10:18:29.318-06:00Photos of the Family Get ready to get comfy and catch a glimpse of living life with Jay and Lizzy.<br />
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Every year we have the kid's photos taken by my favorite photographer friend.<br />
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She's amazing and talented and quite a trooper. She was at the hospital when Jay was just hours old, and she's documented the growth (in size and personality) of my two kiddos ever since. I am so grateful that our paths crossed. If you're in Alabama or Tennessee and want to talk with her about photos--<a href="http://www.imagesbynaomi.com/index2.php#/home/">visit her website here--</a> (you'll recognize some darling kids featured on her website, but I don't receive anything for saying any of this).<br />
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Now for this year's pics.<br />
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I took the kids to Tuscaloosa one fall afternoon we spent some time at <a href="http://www.chomonline.org/">CHOM</a>, snacked on some tacos then met Miriam to start pictures.<br />
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We ended this part of the day on a high note...laughing and tickling our way around one block of downtown Tuscaloosa. We had the best time! Tomorrow I'll show you the fun idea Miriam had (I just adore creative, talented people!!) and the second half of our photos.<br />
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All photos were taken by<a href="http://www.chomonline.org/"> </a><a href="http://www.imagesbynaomi.com/index2.php#/home/">Images by Naomi </a>and are owned by me. While I think these kids are adorable, you can't use these pics without my permission. (Legal internet jargon to keep us from turning into unpaid spokespeople. Haha!)allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-8094727710622972312017-01-13T23:31:00.004-06:002017-01-16T10:18:42.360-06:00Chicken Rub-Whole30<div>
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<img border="0" class="bloggoimg" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UAe8vWB8ki4/WHnDF0RbQVI/AAAAAAAALzw/ho_ZEOb1E8E/I/photo_876293.jpg" /></div>
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On my very 1st Whole30 shopping trip I spent a good 20 minutes on the seasoning aisle of my local grocery store reading label after label of seasoning blends. Almost every single pre-mixed seasoning contained sugar, sulfates or another eliminated ingredient.<br />
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I was a tad frustrated but knew I could easily fix this little problem by taking matters into my own hands in my own kitchen. </div>
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I came home and started mixing and measuring and this is the final result of some trials and revisions and is now my go-to spice blend for chicken. I use it at least once a week (usually more) for three months now and we have not gotten tired of it nor do we miss the sugars one bit.<br />
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<b>Meet my friend, 6 Pounds of Chicken Rub.</b></div>
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<i>(It's enough to to do 6+ pounds of chicken, it doesn't make 6 pounds of rub, that would be crazy!)</i></div>
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Ingredients</div>
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2T Chili powder</div>
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1T Onion</div>
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1/2 tsp <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00497D9KI/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00497D9KI&linkId=6e55a904f46120568604662c2dc5a626">Aloha Red Hawaiian Salt</a></div>
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1/2 tsp Garlic Powder</div>
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1/2 tsp Paprika</div>
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1/4 tsp Dry Mustard</div>
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1/4 tsp Corriander</div>
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1/2 tsp Chipotle powder</div>
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Pepper to taste</div>
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I also make a<b> Spicy Steak rub </b>that is great and sugar and preservative free<br />
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Ingredients</div>
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1.5 Tablespoons Mr. Pepper</div>
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1/2 Tablespoon garlic powder</div>
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1 teaspoon ground chipotle</div>
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1/2 tsp cumin</div>
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika</div>
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1/4 tsp red pepper</div>
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Salt to taste</div>
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The <b>Taco/Fajita/Mexican seasoning</b> I use is from the Pioneer Woman. I've made my own for years and always have it in hand. I always double it so here's the doubled recipe for you saving you some math. You're welcome.</div>
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4 tsp Chili powder</div>
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1Tablespoon Cumin</div>
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1 tsp paprika</div>
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1 tsp red pepper</div>
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1 tsp salt</div>
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1/2 tsp garlic</div>
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1/2 tsp onion</div>
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1/2 tsp oregano</div>
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1/2 tsp pepper</div>
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Thanks, PW! We love it! </div>
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I keep all of my rubs and seasoning mixes in glass jars labeled on top and the recipe on the side. </div>
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<img border="0" class="bloggoimg" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SDMjPjc109A/WHnDGb0D9YI/AAAAAAAALz0/Cz0s-KrK8HQ/I/photo_971830.jpg" /></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GXVW17U/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00GXVW17U&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=ec9e93a76a3b884bbad52beb94f01f5d" target="_blank">//Nail Color//</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B00GXVW17U" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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<img border="0" class="bloggoimg" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B0FLxfhnHLI/WHnDGwHIOiI/AAAAAAAALz4/BA0ZEnwwWoQ/I/photo_399183.jpg" /></div>
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This makes it oh-so easy to spot them in the pantry and simple to remix them when I'm running low. </div>
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If you need a label maker (and we all do!)<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JVHH9W/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000JVHH9W&linkId=78364d456282e3edfc76cfde16abe772"> here's </a>the one I use. It lives in my pantry. </div>
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allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-73755952214136496162017-01-13T17:56:00.000-06:002017-01-13T17:56:21.010-06:00Friday Favorites New Year Edition<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwQ5GdYjNgQtG1MVFSH3s3owjAuW9XvDrvdVcNWEIoUH0DrEeumryeyUv-T-pwhSaF7owmfNCU-fVSX_vPF3JiNqEkjG3XOplphHfmv9z7wJhbrDNbN2SZiX5VRucaBkVnKKb6REzSZH4/s320/friday+favorites+flower+look.jpeg" width="320" /></div>
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I'm linking up <a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/">here</a> today to show you some of my favorite things this week!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by and let me know what you're loving too! </div>
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Okay, okay its a New Year and we're nearly halfway through January!! I can't believe how fast time is truly flying, this year is whizzing on by and its time to start getting going and taking care of business! Here are my Friday Favorites that are helping me along so far this year.<br />
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1.<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GXVW17U/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00GXVW17U&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=e979e6ccb0cd050e270bb6ccbe2c0bcf" target="_blank">Essie/ Lady Like</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B00GXVW17U" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
I adore this nail color. Its soft and feminine and the perfect neutral. I might buy an extra bottle or two to keep in the car and at the beach house because y'all its perfect. Its almost the exact same shade as my nude nails and lips so its the perfect touch if you like your nails to be done but not distracting. I would buy this for my wedding, without a doubt. (If I were a bride-to-be, but I'm not!) Say goodbye to french manicures and kiss the greige goodbye because this nail color is it.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GXVW17U/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00GXVW17U&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=eefef45a927615b877f1c27266caf83e" target="_blank">Buy it here and thank me later!</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B00GXVW17U" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GXVW17U/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00GXVW17U&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=32a892f845e7a3f0937568e44d8e8a63" nbsp="" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B00GXVW17U&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thewesofwhaar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B00GXVW17U" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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2. Podcasts, podcasts and more podcasts-- Now that school is back in session the house seems big and empty during the day. This week it really helped me to tune it to some friendly voices of like-minded moms while I packed away Christmas decor and cooked. Some that I'm subscribing to--<br />
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<a href="http://bigboo.libsyn.com/">Big Boo Podcast</a> these girls are hi-lar-i-ous. If you dont know <a href="http://boomama.net/">BooMama </a>and <a href="http://thebigmamablog.com/">Big Mama</a> you should!<br />
<a href="http://www.hellomornings.org/welcome-to-the-hellomornings-podcast-episode-1/">Hello Mornings Podcast with Kat Lee</a><br />
<a href="http://godcenteredmom.com/category/god-centered-mom-podcast/">God Centered Mom Podcast</a><br />
<a href="http://godcenteredmom.com/category/god-centered-mom-podcast/">Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs</a><br />
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Are you into podcasts? I'd love to know what you're listening to! Tell me which ones you love so I can keep filling my house with sound, because I never learned how to whistle, so whistling while I work is out. Ha!<br />
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3. Zoe's Kitchen Greek Dressing.<br />
We're back Whole30 this month and Zoe's dressing is a life saver. When we're out of homemade dressing this bottle saves the day every single time. It's easy to find all around Birmingham and Alabama, but if you just cant get to a Zoe's, just call me and I'll send you some!<br />
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That's it for me this Friday, but I'll be back soon! After some more encouragement from friends and family I'm back at blogging in the New Year. I shared <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/p/in-kitchen.html">my Recipes page recently</a> on Facebook since so many friends were starting their own <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2016/05/our-whole30-and-where-we-are-now.html">Whole30</a> reset, and so many of my friends have praised the recipes and the blog and asked for more--here we are! Thank you all for your sweet comments! And let me know what you're loving as we start this new year!<br />
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Oh! and see those updated pics in the sidebar ----><br />
I'll be posting more about those next week! Can't wait to share the fun day we had in Tuscaloosa!allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-7107300141161631852016-06-29T22:21:00.000-05:002016-06-29T23:01:55.914-05:00Blueberry Pie with Whole30 Crust<div style="text-align: center;">This post has me grinning from ear to ear. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k4mwYEAGqIU/V3SZgO2Vc6I/AAAAAAAALj4/uzjpW4l2Zwc/I/photo_399023.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've been looking for some dairy-free dessert options, thinking about making a cobbler or pie but wasn't sure I wanted to conquer that. But bang! It's mid-summer and berries are bountiful, so I finally took the plunge! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm so glad I did. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LCa9a3bwrOo/V3SZhPNA0EI/AAAAAAAALkA/BhN_DKODY0Q/I/photo_432441.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">This pie is wonderful! A great dessert but not so sweet that it feels like you're maxing out in sugars and will be left with a food hangover. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I tried a few different crust variations and am so pleased with how this turned out! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enough about me, let's get into the recipe already!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>For the filling</i>: </div><div style="text-align: center;">3 cups (or more) blueberries</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup coconut sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 Tablespoons potato starch (or arrowroot starch)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 teaspoon cinnamon</div><div style="text-align: center;">Zest and juice of 1 lemon</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>For the crust:</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 cups almond flour</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup melted coconut oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">6 Tablespoons coconut flour</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 egg whites</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 teaspoon vanilla</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Method</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven to 350 and grease a pie plate with coconut oil, set aside.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Combine filling ingredients in a storage bowl with a lid. Lightly mash a few berries (with a masher or fork) to burst them and get their juices flowing. Secure lid of bowl and shake vigorously to toss all of your ingredients together, stir if necessary, set aside.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">In a mixing bowl combine all of the crust ingredients until dough forms. It will be a bit crumbly but should come together better once you roll it out. Turn dough out onto plastic wrap. Lay a second piece of plastic wrap over dough and roll out to no thicker than 1/4 inch. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Carefully move dough to pie plate and press around to smooth. If you have cracks or tears in your dough just piece it back together by hand. Pastry work can be tricky especially when you're working grain-free, gluten-free and dairy-free. Give yourself some grace here. It's will still be delicious! You'll have enough dough to make the bottom crust and a top crust, I opted for some cookie cutter stars since it's almost July 4, and top crusts are even tougher to wrangle. I sprinkled the tops of my stars with coconut sugar just for an added touch of sweet.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9JhvsyRgfnE/V3SZiz_9pfI/AAAAAAAALkI/pH4-PEe63bg/I/photo_925286.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Once your crust is in place spoon your filling over the crust. Add top crust (with slits to vent) and pinch the edges together OR decorate with crust cutouts. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 25 minutes then loosely cover with foil and return to bake another 20 minutes.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R-Dd7R9WsYY/V3SZlwhKYoI/AAAAAAAALkQ/WBZQFtxNcro/I/photo_96398.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">The perfect pairing with this pie? Coco Whip! </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LiFPrfwyrdQ/V3SZpPJHgQI/AAAAAAAALkY/lJoZ1KWxSZc/I/photo_105217.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yep, think of our Ol friend Cool Whip after a Whole30. It's made by So Delicious, it's Dairy-Free and Dang Delicious!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought mine at Sprouts and brought them to the beach with me since I was pretty sure I couldn't easily find any down here. I'm so glad I did! This was the first time we've tried it and it was awesome! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I hope you'll believe me when I tell you this is a delicious dessert and simple to put together! I read lots and lots and lots of pie recipes before trying this out. I got the gist of Paleo crust making but then simplified things because sometimes I feel like some cooks who are trying to create paleo/whole30 recipes are trying too hard to show off their culinary skills when all we really want to do is make something delicious without going to too much trouble. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">There are only 10 ingredients in the whole thing and it's great and festive and a wonderful dessert for the whole family! </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gADioj_05Vo/V3SZrppRGEI/AAAAAAAALkg/5dgPvVT5vps/I/photo_527546.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's also divine when typing up a late-night blog post about pie! </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">I hope you enjoy sharing this with your family! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div><br></div>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-15587241284769865052016-06-25T22:42:00.001-05:002016-06-25T22:43:40.993-05:00Dairy Free Sour Cream Saves the Day! -Whole30<div style="text-align: center;">Since giving up dairy, I've wanted to make sure we didn't feel like we were missing out on any of our favorites and Mexican food is certainly a favorite in our house. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was well after <a href="http://thewestofwhatsaround.blogspot.com/2016/05/our-whole30-and-where-we-are-now.html">I completed my Whole30</a> that I discovered this little life saver, so I'm making sure to mark this recipe as a Whole30 Must-Have because its so simple and really satisfying. All you need is a can of unsweetened organic coconut milk, some citrus, a little salt and a mixer. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It literally couldn't be any easier to make your own fresh and delicious dairy-free sour cream!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DHphsXa1lo8/V29PabWaKnI/AAAAAAAALjc/3OtuQYkKfbM/I/photo_148990.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 chilled can of unsweetened, full fat coconut milk (organic is preferred- -I use Thai Kitchen)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Juice of 1 lemon or 3 limes</div><div style="text-align: center;">Salt to taste</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Method</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Turn can of refrigerated coconut milk upside down, open the can and pour off the liquid. Spoon the cream into a small bowl. Squeeze in lime juice and add a dash of salt. Mix with the whisk attachment of a handheld mixer on high for about 30 seconds. Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S7XMZHtSFVI/V29PbPXAdNI/AAAAAAAALjk/l_OvAmBtpPk/I/photo_128508.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-67507840669219242422016-06-25T22:20:00.000-05:002016-06-25T22:24:24.335-05:00Comfort Food Stuffed Peppers- Whole30<div style="text-align: center;">
You guys. </div>
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Growing up stuffed peppers were always a favorite. I always asked my mom to make them for my birthday, I make extra filling every time I make them because I love it and can eat it by the bowlful.</div>
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But the way my mom makes them and therefore the way I've always made them they have rice and corn and oh yes, Velveeta. Since completing my 1st Whole30 and cleaning up what I eat for months and months those ingredients are off my list. </div>
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I've seen lots of recipes out there for Whole30 compliant stuffed peppers, and read through them but none seemed like they would even compare to my childhood favorite. So, I decided to just go for it and use the skills I've gained using different veggies in new ways and come up with my own. </div>
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Its a winner! These have a great, rich texture. You might swear you're eating rice when you taste this filling. This recipe makes enough filling for 8 generous peppers-- but I just stuff 4 peppers and keep half of the filling (freeze it for next time, eat it for lunch with a salad, use it another night with some zoodles or a baked potato--I've done it all!)</div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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2 pounds ground venison (or lean beef, or bison or whatever your red meat of choice is--mix it up if you want)</div>
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1/2 tsp garlic powder</div>
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4 red bell peppers tops, seeds and membranes removed (or 8 if you want to use all of the filling now!)</div>
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1 orange bell pepper, diced</div>
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1 medium squash, grated</div>
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1 medium zucchini, grated</div>
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1/2 onion, grated</div>
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1/2 head of cauliflower, grated</div>
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1 can organic tomato sauce ( I used Muir Glen from Publix)</div>
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1/2 cup organic Chicken Stock (I use the Kirkland's brand from Costco)</div>
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2 Tablespoons Coconut oil</div>
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1 Tablespoon Olive oil</div>
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Salt</div>
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Pepper</div>
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<b>Method</b></div>
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Preaheat oven to 350, drizzle olive oil over prepped peppers and place them upside in a glass baking dish. Bake for 10-12 minutes.</div>
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Meanwhile melt coconut oil in a large saucepan or pasta pot over medium high heat to brown your meat, season with garlic powder and place a small skillet over medium heat.Add cauliflower and chicken stock to the skillet, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally. Brown meat then drain and set aside. In the same pot saute diced bell pepper, squash, zucchini and onion. </div>
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Now is a good time to add salt and pepper to the veggies and the cauliflower simmering in the skillet.Remove the peppers from the oven and turn them over to let them get ready for the filling. </div>
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Once the veggies are soft, return the browned meat to the pot and stir in tomato sauce. After combining, fold in your cooked cauliflower rice. Your filling is done!</div>
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Fill the peppers and pop them back into the 350 degree oven for 15-18 minutes. </div>
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You can freeze the other half of the filling or use it for more meals this week! </div>
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A classic.</div>
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Comfort food.</div>
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Whole30 Compliant AND delicious. </div>
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7 veggies, protein and healthy fat in one delicious entree. </div>
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Happy, happy, happy!</div>
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allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-86982933627208406712016-05-11T14:18:00.000-05:002016-05-11T14:29:25.080-05:00Mexican Chicken Salad - Whole30<div style="text-align: center;">¡Hola, Amigos!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">This chicken salad recipe I'm sharing today is simply delightful.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LEjJYR0_aKE/VzOIBUbRgyI/AAAAAAAALgg/lympfkeBhuU/I/photo_568035.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br>I'm a huge chicken salad fan and who doesn't love Mexican? <br> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I made it for lunch today and can't remember the last time I've loved my lunch like today's.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">What's not to love? Chicken Salad gone for a trip south of the border?? </div><div style="text-align: center;">Sounds like a match made in heaven, right?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">You're right. It is.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C4Z_GaLjftY/VzOID0pKlvI/AAAAAAAALgk/V22J4ilzd5A/I/photo_242858.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup mayo</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 red bell pepper, diced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 small onion, diced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Tablespoon taco seasoning</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Tablespoon fresh minced cilantro</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Method</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Combine all of this goodness in a bowl. Say the blessing. Dive right in.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QnUdp5KUxHE/VzOIE--A1zI/AAAAAAAALgo/5avbSrijfS4/I/photo_904551.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br> <br></div>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-82794227822230742582016-05-10T12:18:00.000-05:002016-05-10T14:19:02.366-05:00Greek Chicken and Potatoes -Whole30<div style="text-align: center;">I'm excited to share such a simple, comforting recipe with you!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even before we cleaned up our eating, this meal was a great go-to crowd-pleaser at the West house. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've even taken it to families when we've delivered dinner during an illness, after a new baby or after a loss.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Once we eliminated sugar and preservatives, I recreated this recipe using real, whole ingredients and it's still perfect!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Greek Chicken and Potatoes</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8H3-4ALvHoQ/VzIzyHrhjyI/AAAAAAAALgI/FSqOjwp5VBQ/I/photo_972673.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div>Ingredients</div><div style="text-align: center;">1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, rinsed and patted dry. </div><div style="text-align: center;">1 pound small new potatoes, washed, dried and cut into bite sized pieces</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup dried roasted sun-dried tomatoes (these are in the produce section at my Publix--on an end cap with jarred garlic, etc.)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1.5 T Greek Seasoning</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Method</div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven to 350.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Place chicken, potatoes and tomatoes in a large bowl. Add olive oil and seasoning and toss until everything is coated. Pour contents of bowl into 9x13 glass baking dish. Bake 45-50 minutes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2dy1chk29_o/VzI0IyanoFI/AAAAAAAALgM/7uDmqWF1JWo/I/photo_637817.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div>Serve this alongside a fresh green salad and dinner is done!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I hope y'all enjoy this as much as we do! Keep this in mind the next time you need to deliver a meal to a neighbor--they'll love it too! <br><br> <br> <br></div>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-45161983760225876952016-05-09T22:10:00.001-05:002016-05-10T05:41:31.069-05:00Better Than 5 Ingredient Banana Muffins -Whole30<div style="text-align: center;">
I love breakfast! We love muffins! We also live the way we feel when we make the choice to eliminate sugars and fake stuff in our food! I found 7 million pins for 5 ingredient Whole30 muffins!!!</div>
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....and they were......okay.</div>
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Wait--they were good if you hadnt had any sugar/flour/baked goods in a month. Yes. they were good.</div>
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But the first time I tasted them I knew they could be better. </div>
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<i>So I fixed them.</i></div>
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<img border="0" class="bloggoimg" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nKbxkexqXeI/VzG5TFWD3NI/AAAAAAAALfw/UaVo0pyoe5M/I/photo_53435.jpg" /></div>
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The original reciep I found called fro bananas, eggs, vanilla, baking soda and almond butter. </div>
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I like the concept, tried it then married that recipe to <a href="http://thelarsonlingo.blogspot.com/2013/07/some-fun-news-recipe.html">my favorite go-to muffin recipe from Mel at Larson's Lingo. </a></div>
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<b><i>Poof!</i></b></div>
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A tender, flavorful version of the "Whole30 Muffin" was born. </div>
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Now I'm sharing it with you, my people. </div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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2 ripe bananas</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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1 cup shredded zucchini</div>
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1 cup almond butter</div>
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1 tsp baking soda</div>
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1 tsp vanilla</div>
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1 tsp cinnamon</div>
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Coconut oil to grease muffin pan</div>
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<b>Method</b></div>
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generously grease cups of a 12 cup muffin pan. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. If you're making by hand mash the bananas in a bowl first using a wooden spoon or potato masher then stir in additional ingredients. Pour batter into greased muffin tins until 2/3 full. Bake 12-15 minutes.</div>
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If you want, use your <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AXN5VUC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01AXN5VUC&linkCode=as2&tag=lifewelllived-20&linkId=37STUSF7PEMSKA3F%22%3ECuisinart%20DLC-8SY%20Pro%20Custom%2011-Cup%20Food%20Processor,%20White%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=lifewelllived-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B01AXN5VUC%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">food processor</a>. I throw everything in mine, give it a whirl and then fill the muffin tins. </div>
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<img border="0" class="bloggoimg" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-19eVwE6yeGU/VzG5Tk6GPtI/AAAAAAAALf0/51K-OBzz4fU/I/photo_523338.jpg" /></div>
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If you want your kids to happily gobble up these muffins, add some milk chocolate chips to theirs. That means they are eating a wonderfully healthy breakfast/snack and you arent sweating whether or not they'll reject it because it looks healthy. Its a win-win if you aren't keeping your kids to a 100% Whole30 compliant diet. (Which we don't do at our house. Our kids still eat some treats and things that aren't compliant with the Whole30 plan but they see the choices we're making to improve our food and that, to me, is worth a few chocolate chips to them.)</div>
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These are a fantastic texture and well worth the effort of adding 7 ingredients to a bowl instead of just 5!</div>
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Enjoy them in the morning! Send them to school for snack! Use them for dessert! </div>
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If you've tried the other muffin recipes, try this version and let me know if you agree!</div>
allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-88927560143787671392016-05-09T13:32:00.000-05:002016-05-09T13:42:24.655-05:00Weekending: Mother's Day<div style="text-align: center;">It's Monday! Time to get back in the routine! It's Lizzy's last week of school so we have a fun week ahead--but not as fun as our weekend was!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZbqmOMfTc_0/VzDZ2XcgO4I/AAAAAAAALbg/1-uLfynirZY/I/photo_739585.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Friday was Play Day at school for Lizzy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7zXiMREmyKg/VzDZ3DyqXNI/AAAAAAAALbk/E_xsVjsvpbA/I/photo_887459.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">This means cake decorating, dancing, tattoos, snow cones, moon walk, bubbles, gym time and lots of fun!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We met Daddy for lunch after play day then ran home to get ready to go to the beach as soon as we could.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HsHg8u1sd3E/VzDZ3nrvR7I/AAAAAAAALbo/tT0h96I2Ua8/I/photo_818422.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">We picked Jay up a little early and headed south. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We went out for dinner since we knew this would be a quick trip.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Saturday morning we got up and at 'em and the kids and I went to the Foley Art Festival. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LKm34OEubn4/VzDZ4VyJSuI/AAAAAAAALbs/jDGcv-fqf3g/I/photo_325223.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">We looked around and got a snack, made a wish in the fountain.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b8jrWqK36fY/VzDZ4-fTZKI/AAAAAAAALbw/rugKCPPfmJY/I/photo_558099.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Then rode the little train on the longest ride ever! (I don't have a pic bc we were squeezed in so tight.) ((wouldn't you know this ride were were squeezed like sardines and it was 20 minutes!))</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fX_fUHTg2NM/VzDZ6Eza-EI/AAAAAAAALb0/Qr5iSPE9BNc/I/photo_828728.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">The kids made crafts and asked to go to the model train museum again and they loved it. Lizzy said it was her favorite part. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EQi-wEwNvrs/VzDZ687NFqI/AAAAAAAALb4/Z1nGppepvVM/I/photo_794916.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CjESuYdjiWg/VzDZ7Javb1I/AAAAAAAALb8/qpQk7ak7rPM/I/photo_190367.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I picked up two hanging planters while we were there. (Happy Mother's Day to me!) I can't decide whether to hang them at new house (Birmingham) or our beach house--so they rose back with us til I decide.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VX-tlWTzuiQ/VzDZ7RBy1ZI/AAAAAAAALcA/0VbkY59HR9I/I/photo_119442.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We then went to Stacey's Rexall Drugs for lunch at their old fashioned soda fountain. It's always so good and so fun to eat there in downtown Foley.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fBY27RLfefM/VzDZ8FggfFI/AAAAAAAALcE/txsm3CxFabs/I/photo_223542.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oBIhZpyHpDE/VzDZ8nJnkGI/AAAAAAAALcI/2PxGy1y3TcQ/I/photo_794348.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We came home to chill for a while then headed out to the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival with Dad.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TszTUJMoZzA/VzDZ9utPQcI/AAAAAAAALcM/l6EAYs5S5kM/I/photo_850038.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It. Was. Awesome.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FOmolfk6TDY/VzDZ-ZF9J0I/AAAAAAAALcQ/LksjcpqLM0E/I/photo_155540.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We made it in time for the trick dog show (which was Lizzy's favorite part), then over to the balloons to prep for the mass Ascension (which didn't happen) (but was still so cool and mine and Joseph's favorite part), then to the midway to ride a couple of rides (Jay's favorite part) and get some fair food for the kids.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hTQlLprdmBk/VzDZ-nKECfI/AAAAAAAALcU/lHBCjcRf1TY/I/photo_197473.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kS3kurVpzDg/VzDZ_HRjl4I/AAAAAAAALcY/TCs8WNJQZmk/I/photo_403615.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1PNlPWqLbS0/VzDZ_vmScjI/AAAAAAAALcc/BKcBfvdAsZI/I/photo_445942.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cREFBXezpXc/VzDaABp8mTI/AAAAAAAALcg/xUorEIk2TC0/I/photo_921317.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was amazing being up close to all of the balloons!! Once they were inflated they were lighting the blowers all around us. It was bright and unbelievable and a little hot!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TcJHY34ASbU/VzDaAdumH5I/AAAAAAAALck/zMCwjN9liR4/I/photo_573686.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UppAPmHRmAY/VzDaAyyL1sI/AAAAAAAALco/Y6KwHNpVj9M/I/photo_243733.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xwVvmYvGHto/VzDaBWM1TLI/AAAAAAAALcs/ojD3Q_RLWro/I/photo_387784.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8w3VcbXyEng/VzDaBihPpjI/AAAAAAAALcw/1Np_Hy-fMH8/I/photo_931519.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Jay and I rode The Scrambler and bumper cars. This was his first time for rides and he LOVED EVERY SECOND.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Av4uk_2KVI/VzDaCLfvezI/AAAAAAAALc0/QLCnUnQaR9g/I/photo_249974.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div> <br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We went out for breakfast on Mother's Day. This year I got the sweetest cards and gifts. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lizzy made me this precious vase.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-afQpoj_VVCc/VzDaCg3m1YI/AAAAAAAALc4/BHOVGGbJ9Ow/I/photo_693532.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vNRAhPanvIM/VzDaDJOU8yI/AAAAAAAALc8/uGS3ODzlTh0/I/photo_166146.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">And Jay made a beautiful set of coasters!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-73LyPlbzzac/VzDaDg-2wpI/AAAAAAAALdA/JNp6BHNF_WU/I/photo_511435.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"> </div></div><div style="text-align: center;">We also welcomed another mother in our family over the weekend. One of the hens we gave Joseph's mom for her birthday has been sitting on some eggs and Sunday morning we got this picture!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vf4orK3R2rg/VzDaD9ow1gI/AAAAAAAALdE/9Doqr_cM964/I/photo_743057.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy Mother's Day indeed!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div>allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-57719456107293560022016-05-07T16:25:00.000-05:002016-05-10T05:39:58.806-05:00Personal Style Show and Tell Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello Tuesday! Today I'm linking up a with <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/">momfessionals</a> for show and tell Tuesday.</div>
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Hilarious that I am blogging my personal style because I can only describe myself as casual and easy to throw something on and go. </div>
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I'm shorts/jeans/t-shirts virtually every day and dressed for church on Sunday.</div>
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But I snapped a few pics last week--I'm thinking that what I'm wearing these days is pretty indicative of my style!</div>
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Clearly, Gus is very intrigued by mirror selfies! </div>
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All of my shorts are J. Crew or Factory J.Crew.</div>
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I'm a boot-cut or flared jeans gal and these are Gap.</div>
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All of my tops pictured are J. Crew or Gap.</div>
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(Seeing a trend here?)</div>
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I'm almost always in my Rainbow flip-flops this time of year, but most mornings I **try** to start off in something else, although somehow by the end of the day I've always managed to find my way back to my Rainbows. </div>
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This time of year and all summer long--this is me.</div>
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From breakfast to bedtime I'm in a swim suit most days. I'm still a two-piece bikini gal.</div>
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So, I mix it up and buy mostly separates and change up my combinations all the time. </div>
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These are the current pieces in my bag.</div>
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I mix most of these pieces with each other and sometimes forget what I actually purchased to go with what.</div>
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I like the variety and never end up looking for a lost top or bottom because I can pick up almost any two pieces and they work!</div>
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#busysummermomwin</div>
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So, that's my style! Casual, comfy easy to throw on and go anywhere I need to go! </div>
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I have a list of things I still need to pick up for summer including black sandals, a new purse (I've got plenty of new tires for the season but from time to time I need "just a purse".), and new jeans!</div>
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If you have some favorites, let me know!! I love having help shopping and need to get some things soon! It's just about summertime! Woo! </div>
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allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-77537638378348773692016-05-05T22:24:00.000-05:002017-01-13T18:21:12.281-06:00Our Whole30 and where we are now.....Some of you are here because you like us and like keeping up with what we're doing on a daily/weekly/holiday basis. And for that I am eternally grateful, because you are my people. :)<br />
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Some of you, however, are here for the food. Welcome! You, too, are my people and I am grateful for you.<br />
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For several years I've been sharing what we're eating and what's cooking in my kitchen. I'm back to meal planning and sharing again because my people asked me to and people get what they ask for.<br />
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I thought I'd share a quick version of Our Whole30 experience and how the menus have shaped up at the West house these days.<br />
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We (I) decided in January that it would be a good "experiment" to complete the Whole30 <a href="http://whole30.com/">(if you aren't familiar with the Whole30 Program click here.)</a><br />
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I first read about it online, from bloggers and instagrammers and then the Whole30 website. I looked at the calendar and knew that the day after my birthday would give me enough time to prepare and enough time to get Joseph to accept his fate for 30 days.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544609719/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0544609719&linkCode=as2&tag=lifewelllived-20&linkId=LTODD26DOAONANID"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544609719/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0544609719&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=9680637c40092734611f37eb4f08d47f" target="_blank">Then I bought the book.</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0544609719" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a><br />
I read it cover to cover over a few days. Then I read it again.<br />
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Websites, bloggers (like myself) and friends can tell you lots about the program and real-life experience but buying the book, to me was key. And well worth the $30 I spent at Target. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544609719/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0544609719&linkCode=as2&tag=lifewelllived-20&linkId=LTODD26DOAONANID">(<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544609719/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0544609719&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=9d1737d97145fe4e7a42a2973c5f3f25" target="_blank">Get it for $16.99 here</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0544609719" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />.)</a><br />
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The book is revised and more in-depth. It tells you what you can expect over the course of 30 days and to me, I think a book holds itself more accountable than things you come across online.<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544609719/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0544609719&linkCode=as2&tag=thewesofwhaar-20&linkId=232663586112477ebbcbc48b4a8378f0" target="_blank">Buy the Book</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thewesofwhaar-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0544609719" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544609719/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0544609719&linkCode=as2&tag=lifewelllived-20&linkId=LTODD26DOAONANID">.</a><br />
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So, we started the day after my birthday and completed 30 days of elimination and "experimentation" with food and its effect on our bodies. We didn't take before pictures, but by day 5 I was wishing we did. My skin was noticeably clearer, my clothes fit better, and I felt different.<br />
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Before we started, I was drinking almost a pot of coffee daily. Fueled by caffeine, splenda and Sugar Free French Vanilla Coffeemate, I was so tired by 6 p.m. I didn't know what to do with myself. Cry? Collapse? Yell at someone? I think sometimes I did all three.<br />
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10 days in I was sleeping like a baby, waking up before the sun and had energy like I haven't had in years, maybe ever.<br />
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I have taken daily medications all of my adult life to treat acne.(nearly 20 years!!) A week into the program (and now 90+ days after) I don't need any of that.<br />
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Oh--and we dropped a few pounds. Together 43 pounds in 30 days.<br />
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When the 30 days were over, we evaluated how we felt and decided the best thing for us it to continue eating a diet filled with meat (mostly lean), lots of fruits and vegetables without refined sugars, dairy, and preservatives.<br />
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So here we are, nearly 4 months later and still feel great, sleep well, have plenty of energy and patience. We have a happier, healthier family. (and together have lost nearly 70 pounds in 90 days.)<br />
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Speaking of family--several members of our extended family have since begun a Whole30 for themselves. Many friends have started and friends of family members are now starting the Whole30 and seeing a difference.<br />
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Which brings us back to the blog. It takes thought and planning to keep at the "experiment" for 30 days. It takes even more brain-power and grocery lists to maintain a healthy diet like this for the long haul.<br />
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I've been sharing my recipes with family and friends via text, email and "here you have to try this" and finally have been asked enough times to start doing weekly meal plans that I'm digging in (but not before snapping a photo) to write out recipes to share with you and your families. I want to help you see that you can eat in a way that's best for you without feeling like you're missing out on the "good stuff".<br />
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I also want to know and I want you to know that we're in this together. :)<br />
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So starting next Thursday I'll be posting weekly meal ideas and recipes for you and your family who are Whole30, Whole90, or just want some new dinner ideas for yummy food.<br />
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And, yes, I'm going to continue sharing all summer long from Birmingham and the beach. Bathing suits and aprons are all the rage.<br />
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See you back here next Thursday for week 1! In the meantime feel free to comment to tell me about your family or who you're cooking for! If you're new here, we are a family of 4--with a 5 year old and a 4 year old and the sweetest big black bulldog in the world!<br />
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<br />allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-120417328315587205.post-17696121510694733452016-05-05T19:33:00.000-05:002016-07-04T08:07:03.921-05:00it's the 4th of July!<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cFi9qARTxzs/V3pfbdM0GXI/AAAAAAAALk8/ZnBR0NFqRUs/I/photo_898670.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We're not celebrating in Nashville today, but when I think of America the Beautiful it takes me back to this. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">We always went downtown for the fireworks when I was growing up and Nashville these days is even more beautiful. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Have a blast celebrating the people and places that make our country great and I'll be back tomorrow with our holiday weekend recap.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4H6txK307Hs/V3pfc4AkcYI/AAAAAAAALlA/zT4mOj6g-7I/I/photo_461970.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br> <br></div><br> allisonwesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09294887495120895540noreply@blogger.com0