tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36792112505795815372024-03-13T14:10:50.652-07:00my sweet stambachmy sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-60271131992640966312012-09-07T05:50:00.001-07:002012-09-07T05:50:30.525-07:00The Crowing Contest and a Peruvian Fowl.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well, at least I said it might be a while. <br />
But I didn't think it'd be this long. Since May?! Too long, I say. </div>
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Well here's a short little something to read. It's about the latest excitement in our village. Our neighbor told us about a contest taking place in tiny, little Stambach. I kinda thought she was joking, but no...this was the first ever (in our town)<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Rooster Crowing Contest.</i></span></div>
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Germans don't kid, so I instantly knew this needed to be documented through photos. We weren't going to miss it.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Leo</i></span> took part. </div>
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I hear him every morning. Well, it more like noon by the time I hear him. He's our neighbor's rooster. He's #5.</div>
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And a little note...Germany is a mild-weathered land. Heat does not visit us often. Summers are comfortably dewy and sunny; the days are hardly ever sticky and blazing. </div>
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This day, however...was the latter.</div>
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Just as Nate and I claimed our spot in the shade, we were asked to be "Official Counters" for the contest. To be sincere, I just wanted to watch. And sit in the shade. But we did it anyway, and it was fun tallying up the crows as the time went by! </div>
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Well, Nate did all the counting. </div>
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I just snapped pictures.</div>
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I'm a Lover of all things Furry, Fluffy, and Feathery and so I was enjoying every moment of these 30 minutes! Wait, no. I wasn't entirely. The river of sweat running down my back and chest was causing an issue with me.</div>
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So the Rules were: </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. </span>Once the timer started, you counted the crows.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">NO DISTRACTIONS</span> to the roosters was allowed. </div>
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As in, getting too close to the cage, flailing arms and limbs towards the cage, hollering of any sort, etc. </div>
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Kurt, our neighbor, was vehemently enforcing that rule.</div>
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Jessica (granddaughter to Kurt and Gertrude) came along for the show. She looks enthralled, right? ;)</div>
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The winner from the <i>BIG CITY</i> was there too...and I think he intimidated Leo. Check him out! </div>
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His final count was somewhere in the upper 70's, I believe. </div>
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A few other contenders:</div>
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Stambach was a happening place for a few hours! I can't even remember the exact count for Leo. Something like 24 crows. Well, he did decent. We were proud.<br />
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As we were getting ready to leave, someone was talking (in german, mind you!) about the background of Fowl #9. The father of that rooster....came from....PERU! Immediately, I felt a bond to him. Rather, it's my mother who is Peruvian, I said to #9, "We hail from the same land, friend!" He spoke to me. Well..it was more like a murmured cock-a-doodle-doo and a gleeful cluck, we'll say.<br />
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It was a hilarious morning. We laughed a lot and wondered why<i> do</i> roosters crow so much?? Is there an explanation out there? Our guy, Leo, doesn't do it to wake up the farm. We're all awake before he crows. </div>
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Maybe he's just proclaiming to the world how much he loves his Sweet Stambach.</div>
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-Christine</div>
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my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-11834257435734083132012-05-07T10:30:00.003-07:002012-05-07T10:31:00.465-07:00A city that I love.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's been a long time! <br />
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To be perfectly honest, I've been taking a break from the world of blogging. It's kind of time consuming. And with spring being here, and summer around the corner...I'm not sure how often you'll see me! When the sun's out...Christine is out. </div>
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Anyway, I thought I'd let you all know about the prettiest gardens in the UK. </div>
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Kew Gardens, to be exact. </div>
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A few weeks ago, I revisited London with a friend, and was determined to take as few pictures as possible. </div>
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Yes, you read that correctly...as FEW pictures as possible. The reason for that is because I wanted to enjoy the city without the "burden" of camera gear. I actually only brought 2 lens with me. My prime 50mm and 10-22mm ultra wide angle. Since I'd already been to this wonderful city a few months ago, I felt like viewing it through my own eyes, rather than the viewfinder of my camera.</div>
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We get to Kew Gardens, and it was simply too delightful. Although I kicked myself, since I only had my 50mm with me, I tried to capture as much of London's early spring as possible.</div>
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So here are some pretties from the Royal Botanic Gardens :)<br />
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Truly, I could have sat here for the entire day. I instantly felt like a poet with so much inspiration around me!<br />
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This greenhouse was incredible. Except for the fact that because of the amazon-like humidity inside, my lens was completely fogged over. It created a nice haze, though.<br />
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The perfection on these flowers blows me away. Nothing comes remotely close to the creativity and precise detailed works of God.<br />
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{Alright, I know they're dirty birds, but the iridescent colors are so cool. And a pigeon's walk makes me laugh.}<br />
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We only had time to see a <i>fraction</i> of these gardens, and I plan on a full day at Kew Gardens the next time I visit London. <br />
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We were tired and a bit hungry, so we stopped for a little sweet treat.<br />
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I can't exactly remember the name of this white fluff of delight...I think it was something along the lines of Raspberry Froo-Froo Happiness.<br />
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London is one of my favorite cities. For many reasons! <br />
One, being the aforementioned treat.<br />
China Town.<br />
Fish and Chips. <br />
Scones.<br />
Yes, the British Accent. <br />
And Kew Gardens of course. <br />
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So, if any of you has the chance to see London, GO to Kew Gardens. I can't imagine the beauty of it in late June or July. I'm sure it's breathtaking!<br />
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The houses we passed on the way back to the Underground Stop, were covered with these beautiful, dainty purple flowers. Really pretty!!<br />
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Our 2 day trip to London wasn't just gardens and cupcakes. We did go to a concert. In fact, that was the entire reason to go to London. <br />
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Rachmaninoff's Concerto no. 2 and Tchaikovsky's Symphony no. 6.<br />
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If you've never heard Rachmaninoff's Concerto no. 2....download it and listen to it RIGHT NOW. <br />
It speaks to my soul.<br />
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Well, we also did a bit of site-seeing, and I took ONE picture. The Tower Bridge.<br />
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I did manage to be a complete Harry Potter nerd and stop by King's Cross Station, too. <br />
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And that was London, second time around. It was great, as expected! Who else loves this city? <br />
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- Christine<br />
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-58736555738950509752012-03-31T05:52:00.000-07:002012-03-31T05:52:39.120-07:00Pretty Pink Weekend.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Last Saturday (yes, I'm a week behind in getting this post up) we went to the Mandelblütenfest, in the beautiful Weinstrasse. Friends who live in Neustadt, invited us for snacks and drinks before heading out to the festival.</div>
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Oh, I suppose you're wondering what <i>Mandelblütenfest</i> is, right? That would be, the Almond Blossoms Festival. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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So, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #ea9999; font-size: x-large;">pink</span> trees were everywhere. It was a gorgeous day. The sun was shining, strolling through the little town of Gimmeldingen...the day truly could not have been any better! And on top of that, we spent some quality time with dear friends. </div>
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Similar to most German Festivals, the candied nuts, ice cream, and handcrafted goods were present! </div>
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These almonds were wayyy too good. </div>
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Have you ever seen a dog walking in a straight line, and all of the sudden, it's like an invisible string pulls its nose towards the direction of something wonderful smelling? (or in the case of last week's blog, it's not always something <i>wonderful </i>smelling.) Well, you get what I'm trying to say. </div>
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That was me when my nostrils caught the smell of sugary goodness from roasting almonds in melted sugar. </div>
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And the ice cream man was there!</div>
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I was tempted to buy one of these little hens, which were filled with lovely lavender and herbs.</div>
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We stopped and stared at the this fellow rubbing sand, clay, mud, or <i>something</i> from the earth, all over his face and chest. I suppose in the sun it dried and created the look a life-size statue.</div>
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Oh. I forgot. THIS also smelled amazing. </div>
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I'm noticing an unintentional trend going on here! Smells of Springtime is what I should have titled this! Blossoming trees, candied almonds, lavender pouches, rotisserie meat. Goodness, my nose was having a hay-day last Saturday!</div>
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And so was this little pup's nose! Poor little guy couldn't help but reach as far as possible to catch of whiff of those smells.</div>
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Of course, there's a <i>Wine King</i> and his <i>Princesses</i>, and since the Mandelblütenfest is the kick-off of the Wine Festival Season, the king and his court of royal beauties was seen out and about. </div>
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Now THAT is a wine GOBLET.</div>
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The day was coming to an end, so we headed back. I had to laugh, because little Jazzy was working on that ice cream cone for a <i>long </i>time. </div>
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AND, this girl knows how to work the camera! She's always aware of where the camera is, and is always ready with a smile.</div>
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Parking was basically, ANYwhere along these beautiful vineyards. I can't wait to see this area in the late summer. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9Ul1B80erA/T3bnOuOSArI/AAAAAAAAA1g/uIL3iI9EHcw/s1600/IMG_7553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n2wDKDZ-oo8/T3bnXC6UBsI/AAAAAAAAA1w/dJc8zEG85z4/s1600/IMG_7559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n2wDKDZ-oo8/T3bnXC6UBsI/AAAAAAAAA1w/dJc8zEG85z4/s640/IMG_7559.jpg" width="426" /></a><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9Ul1B80erA/T3bnOuOSArI/AAAAAAAAA1g/uIL3iI9EHcw/s640/IMG_7553.jpg" width="426" /></div>
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Melissa had these delightful little cookies at the house. She found them at the bakery near their house. They're meant to resemble the Almond Blossoms! How cute!</div>
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When the sun was setting, we took a short drive up to the Hambach Castle, and saw this incredible view of Neustadt. I kind of forgot to take a picture of the castle. It was cool, like always!</div>
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So, it ended up being a really great weekend. I kept saying to myself, "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We are so blessed</span>" to be where we are right now; the opportunities to see such unique festivals, castles, cultures, and traditions...God is so good, and we just can't stop thanking him for these memorable times. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xKH9I3kKw5c/T3bnqbXbd4I/AAAAAAAAA2g/V5b-gogkdxI/s1600/IMG_7585s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xKH9I3kKw5c/T3bnqbXbd4I/AAAAAAAAA2g/V5b-gogkdxI/s640/IMG_7585s.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thanks for reading, friends! </div>
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Come visit us, and we'll show you the beauty of Germany! We'd love to have you. </div>
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Have a Happy Palm Sunday tomorrow!</div>
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-the Ogdens</div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-31369430165988621982012-03-22T04:13:00.000-07:002012-03-22T13:19:22.251-07:00Prickly pear, Dog perfume, and Spring-time treats.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It's been a wonderful winter and spring here in Germany! My days have been full of planning summer trips, walking the pups, editing some pictures, and a few random treats. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And, I promise, this is the last post I'll make for awhile that is 90% about my dogs. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Are you bored with them? Am I? Never! I just love them pieces. Here's a few pictures of Boomer and Wrigley and our daily activities. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So, who knows what Prickly Pear is?? </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T8WYGjQy4sY/T2o_l5FdbJI/AAAAAAAAAjY/VLIh5qjVZM0/s1600/IMG_7155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T8WYGjQy4sY/T2o_l5FdbJI/AAAAAAAAAjY/VLIh5qjVZM0/s640/IMG_7155.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This fruit, is my favorite. The cactus fruit. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I could solely live off this fruit, forever. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Apparently, I'm not the only one who loves it.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">{I checked. No prickly needles!}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My dogs are healthy! Among their favorites: Carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, and other produce. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>And</i> we walk. The path I was standing on to take this picture is part of our 4 miler. Not very long, but doing this walk at LEAST 4 times a week, 16 miles a week isn't bad, right? And once summer roles around, it's 5 days a week.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">{aint it purdy?}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Here's a shot of roughly the same location, from last October. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> What's the best thing about living in Stambach? The walks! By far, it's my favorite. What a place of perfection to worship God and meditate on his goodness!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So, SOMEtimes, I can convince Nate to join us on our walks.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And actually, the only times I get to take my camera along is when he's there to round up the dogs when they run too far ahead. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Here's a question. Do any of you have dogs that, um, you know, roll in other animals' droppings? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Seriously. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What. In the world.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He smells it. Beelines for it...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And tada!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Poo-makeup, cologne, whatever he intends this to be, it's done. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Disgusting.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Aside from <i>that</i> lovely happening our walk, I DID take note of the cute dry flowers. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Oh, I forgot to mention that WHEN Nate joins us on our walk...it's the short walk. We <i>drive</i> to the top of the hill. Hey, it's still a good mile and a half walk, though. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">{Finding a parking spot generally isn't a problem.}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Turned out to be a nice evening stroll. Even with the stench, it was a happy and pleasant walk. And don't worry, a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">n immediate bath followed the short 2 minute drive back home.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Take note...THIS is Wrigley, with whom I am snuggling with. HE did not take part in the <i>rolling</i>. Boomer still had a lingering odor, even after I used copious amount of Herbal Essence Shampoo. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Onto a few food items!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I made this a few years ago. I need to make it again. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Perfect for these spring afternoons with friends! Sipping tea, and eating a slice of this no-bake cheesecake = Happiness.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A very good friend of mine gave me this wonderful little cookbook, that I've really enjoyed! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So far, I've only tried two recipes in it, but they all look awesome. Here are two that sound scrumptious:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I'm especially excited to try the Roasted Dates recipe, because I LOVE dates, and soon I'll have a boat load of them. Dates from Jericho, Israel...nothing compares. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I made Lemon Chicken Salad on Crostini a few days ago, and it was a total hit with the hubby. Which surprised me, because generally, Chicken Salad is too girly for him. Wrigley stole one, however. Thank goodness I caught him, otherwise I'm positive they'd all have disappeared quickly. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Lemon Chicken Salad on Crostini:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">French or sourdough baguette</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lemon</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Rotisserie Chicken</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fennel bulb</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Green onion</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fresh tarragon</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mayonaise</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Combine these in a bowl:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3 Tbsp. of lemon juice</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 tsp. lemon zest</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1-2 Tbsp. of finely chopped fennel bulb</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2-3 finely chopped green onions</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2/3 cup of mayo</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Salt and pepper</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">{Spoon onto baguette slices, and that's it!}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Garnish</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chopped tarragon </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(or whatever fresh herb you have in your fridge. I used cilantro.)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Depending on how big the chicken is {the one I had was small} the amounts and measurements should vary :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My goal for this summer to make all the recipes in this book. Even the <i>Fritto Misto</i>. That is, <i>if</i> I can find baby octopus at the Globus.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Well, that's all, folks! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It's almost noon, and I cannot stay indoors any longer. Time for our walk! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Have a fabulous weekend...next week: </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: normal;">Mandelblütenfest.</i></span></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #45818e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">{Have fun looking that word up!}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Christine</span></div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-32210251648643411652012-02-05T16:06:00.000-08:002012-02-05T16:07:31.387-08:00Sing-a-ma-jigs<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The Sing-a-ma-jig....</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">SO WEIRD.</span> But oddly cute.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Totally bought 3 of them while visiting the states, and pretty much everyone who plays with a Sing-a-ma-jig, wants one for their own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Boomer is quite taken with these little guys, and feels the need to protect/claim them as his own. Found them all in a basket....next to his bed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The other dog, is quite the opposite and seems a bit confused when they sing. {That is Wrigley, watching from a safe distance, with thick glass between him and The Thing.} </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Well, later that day while on Pinterest, I run across one the greatest moments EVER, captured on film. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #19131a;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">{</span><i>The moment the dragon is slain, Guignol puppet show, Paris, 1963 photographer: Alfred Eisenstaedt</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">}</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #19131a;">Children are so awesome. They unashamedly express what they feel. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #19131a; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Someone clever and witty needs to caption this picture. Have you ever seen such genuine reactions?? I love this so much.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #19131a;">So I had to laugh when I saw it, because it so closely resembled a few photos I'd taken <i>earlier</i> in the day:</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #19131a; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I never would have thought that such cute (okay, and a little creepy) stuffed toys could give me such entertainment. And it was enough entertainment to write about.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #19131a; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Well that's about it. Exciting, huh? Although it may appear that my life is a bit dull, it truly isn't! I'm happy with our life and the little pleasures it brings :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #19131a; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Have a good week, dear friends! And go buy a Sing-a-ma-jig! I promise you'll get a kick of it! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #19131a; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-Christine</span></div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-69249153624680836452012-01-25T17:40:00.000-08:002012-01-25T17:47:58.013-08:00SMORGASBORD. I googled that.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well, I really planned to be more frequent with blogging this year! January is almost gone, and I'm still writing about Christmas time. But I'm glad for the busy couple weeks. Better busy than bored!<br />
So here's a <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">smorgasbord</span></i> of things! <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">W</span>hile in states, I made sure to spend a lot of time with my lovely, and dear friend, Katy. We shared great conversations, laughter, and most importantly, each other's company! We sorted through a box of folded up, wrinkled, and halfway torn notes, homework, and a few projects. </div>
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From <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Junior High</span> and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">High School.</span> </div>
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Oh dear.</div>
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Mr. Allison's 6th grade class project: "Chris and Heather." We got an A.</div>
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Katy was the inspired author, and I was the creative illustrator. We were a good team!</div>
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So, that was a little walk down <i>Memory Lane</i>. It's fun to wander there every once in a while :) </div>
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Onto <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">BAKING!</span></div>
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That would be, Bolillos. And my mom...is the World's Best Bread Maker. Hands down. </div>
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Oh, the SMELL OF BAKING BREAD.</div>
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She could open her own bakery.</div>
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Nothin' like crusty bread alongside a rustic, hearty soup. Tuscan Garbanzo soup sounds so good right now.</div>
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Okay, moving onto something else! Once we can back to Germany, my friend {who was kind enough to watch our two dogs} informed us that one of the pups is an Escape Artist. </div>
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This one.</div>
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Normally, these puppy dog eyes make me melt. But not this time. </div>
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Why not? Because we're on fence number 4. </div>
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All have been put up with skill and perfection, by my handy husband, but Wrigley outwits us, and is quite the clever little guy. Sneaking under, through, and over it; this mongrel is trouble.</div>
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Our neighbors put up the white fence the keep the three <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">horses</span></i> out of our yard. Didn't work so well. And oh did I kicked myself for not having the camera handy that afternoon. </div>
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Well, that's that. {I'm abrupt with these endings sometimes, aren't I?} I'm still behind on a few blog postings, but when I find time, I'll write more!</div>
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I'm thankful for those of you who enjoy reading about what goes on in the Ogden Household! Have I bored you yet?</div>
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Here's one last picture of the 'mature one' of the two. Boomer has his moments, but it's rare. </div>
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-Christine</div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-26160127927488529752012-01-12T09:03:00.000-08:002012-01-26T06:49:34.323-08:00Short and Sweet. {Updated!}<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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{<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><i>new</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><i> photo version!</i></span>}<br />
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Hello! I've been away for a bit. A lot of family and friend time over the past three weeks, and every minute of it was happiness.<br />
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Glad to be back here in my sweet Stambach, though. Here's a couple things I wasn't able to write about before we left for Christmas Break.<br />
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On Sunday, we went to the coolest Christmas Market. As always, it was wonderful! This one was extra-awesome, because it was in the middle of the woods. <br />
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A friend of ours played in this band...their fingers had to be so cold!! I should know what these nuts are called, since they're at practically every Christmas Market.<br />
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--------------{<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><i>this next group of pictures was added just recently. I can't believe I forgot to put them in here!!</i></span>}----------------------<br />
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The food at these Markets is simply amazing.</div>
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But I didn't eat this. </div>
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---------{<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><i style="background-color: white;">sorry, this blog is wayyy disorganized, but I wanted to share the pictures from another Christmas Market. A French Christmas Market! Strassbourg, France</i></span>}---------<br />
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These are the cutest! Handmade "family members." You pick which ones most closely resemble your own family, and you have a very unique gift!<br />
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This building was decked out!<br />
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French pretzels are just as good as German pretzels. <br />
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----------{<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><i>and that concludes the very late Christmas Market insert!</i></span>}----------<br />
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After this, we went home, had plans to sit and watch a movie...but then remembered that we never did a family photo for Christmas cards. Changed clothes in about 2 minutes, and drove to my favorite photo shoot location.<br />
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Well this was not an easy task. I thought it would be with my wireless remote, but keeping the dogs still...<br />
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One good one out of about 30 attempts. As you can see, the sun was still out in the first photo.<br />
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I know, this was insanely brief. But that's what a blog is for, right? Sharing life {exciting AND dull} with friends. <br />
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More next time, I promise.<br />
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-C<br />
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-53958506141385911542011-12-05T03:20:00.001-08:002011-12-05T05:45:22.024-08:00Things from the Weekend.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I celebrated my 27th birthday last week, and it was a grand day! It was a really wonderful weekend, actually. </div>
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Went on a long walk with the pups, and took a few last shots of my favorite time of year. {<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">am I the only one still desperately clinging to the last bits of Autumn?</span>} I'm so sad to see it leave.</div>
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My friend Christina took me to a used book store, {on Base} so all the books were in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ENGLISH</span>! I bought just a <i>few</i>.</div>
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And just as I was driving back home, a met a man in our driveway holding a BEAUTIFUL floral arrangement in his hands. From my parents :)</div>
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'Pretty' is rarely a sufficient word for such blooms.</div>
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Mom Ogden sent this absolutely adorable apron a few days ago. I've actually never owned an apron! Well, I'm in love with this cute thing. {It's so darling that I almost don't want to get it dirty!}</div>
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A few other weekend activities: Going to Metz, France Christmas Market. I have to admit....it was a little bit of a let-down. With the exception of the ferris wheel. </div>
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Ate stuffed mushrooms, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;"><i>à la Dani:</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">Nom nom.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">And played a serious game of Texas Hold 'em.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">So it was a really fun and full weekend. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">Our friends are our family over here. I hate to see some of them moving on and leaving, but these are the friends that we'll have for a lifetime! </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">-Christine </span></span></div>
</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-33951684703407104342011-11-28T06:53:00.001-08:002011-11-28T08:37:40.113-08:00Thanksgiving in Germany!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So I've been busy. </div>
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Lots of events, gatherings, appointments, and dates have prevented me from sitting down and writing a bit about what's new in Stambach. Nothing too new, but there are definitely a few things worth documenting here. </div>
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We had THREE TURKEY dinners this year. One with John Deere Expats, one with our close friends, and one with our church. I brought the camera to only one of those. {and later realized that I didn't even take a picture of the TURKEY?!? Or any of the supremely delicious food! How'd I miss that?} </div>
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So, last Saturday was the dinner at our church, upon many requests from our fellow German brothers and sisters. Turkey, cider, pies, and football all made an appearance, and overall, it was a really great time.</div>
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Simple decorations. </div>
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A few fun crafts. {for the girls}</div>
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Games. {for the boys}</div>
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We all had plenty of things to be thankful for, so writing them down was one way to count our blessings. This game was pretty basic, but fun. You write one thing you're thankful for, and the last letter of that word will become the first letter for the next word. German or English intermixed made it interesting and a little tough at times.</div>
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And plus this big paper....well, everyone got a chance to write down a few of their many blessings.</div>
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Fun times to be had! </div>
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What are just a <i>few</i> things I'm thankful for?</div>
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My hubby. </div>
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{and those black, furry, sweet little pups snuggling with him.}</div>
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Pink skies.</div>
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{this took my breath away.}</div>
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Nature's delicate little wonders.</div>
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And above all,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">most importantly</span>, <i>dearest to my heart</i>, and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>treasure of my soul</b></span>, I am thankful for my Lord Jesus Christ. </div>
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ALL of the above would not be, if it weren't for Him. </div>
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He is my everything. Absolutely nothing in this world compares. Or even comes remotely close to comparing to the awesomeness and perfect beauty and goodness of my Heavenly Father.</div>
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I hope everyone else had a thankful Thanksgiving! I know, everyone is in Christmas mode already, but I wasn't about to let this slip by without sharing with you all what I'm glad for.</div>
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{and I'm really, REALLY thankful for all of you who are reading this right now! Friends are precious.}</div>
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-Christine</div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-62200220656048236102011-11-06T16:40:00.000-08:002011-11-06T22:21:12.393-08:00An Outrageous Task.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's been a really beautiful week here in Stambach. The autumn colors are at their fullest and brightest, and it simply takes my breath away when I'm surrounded by such vivid beauty.</div>
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As you might have guessed, I am documenting just about every moment of it.</div>
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{<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Please excuse squatting dog.</span>}</div>
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Seeing something as stunningly gorgeous and splendidly colored as the fall leaves, leaves me practically insane to gobble up as many photos as I can. </div>
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But something strange happens when I look at something so beautiful. There's a desperate, kind of freak-out thing my brain does....because the one thing that makes my heart truly sink, is seeing a photographic moment---and it slipping away from you before you have a chance to capture it. Heart. Crushed. </div>
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And I feel this way about Autumn. The colors burst into their fullest of glory {overnight!}, and only remain on the trees for one week! So it's this hurried rush that I feel, in order to freeze all that beauty onto a photograph. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">This is my <i>Numero Uno</i>, stumbling block.</span></div>
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Camping out in the middle of the woods has crossed my mind. Really, it has. Pretty sure I could sit in one spot for the entirety of a day, shooting pictures in all different lights and weather. I know, I can be a little dire sometimes ;) </div>
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Nate is the greatest supporter of me and Mr. Canon7D, and yet he occasionally reminds me to just stop. Enjoy. No pictures.</div>
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THIS IS HARD FOR ME.</div>
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But I've been convicted of my frenzied attempt to get it all on camera. It's a greed, hunger, obsession, whatever you want to call it. I realize how silly it is for me to think with desperation. And it's much too daunting of a task! Every nook and cranny of this countryside is Nat. Geo worthy. Not that my photos are even remotely close to National Geographic standards, mind you. But those of you who live in Deutschland know what I mean! </div>
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So, feeling a little annoyed with myself, slightly crazy, frustrated and a bit cranky, a wonderful solution came to mind. </div>
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Find autumnal items. Multiple colors/shades. Photograph. Collage via <a href="http://picasa.google.com/" target="_blank">Picasa</a>. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><em style="color: black; font-style: normal;">voilà</em>!</span></span></div>
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This is one way to capture and remember the year's autumn colors without fret or fear of missing out on any photo opportunities! Really nothing new here...just a collage of pretty colors. Well, new <i>realization</i> for me I guess. My choleric-melancholy personality needs to take a BREAK sometimes. It's exhausting!</div>
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Sorry for the long writing. Read this:<br />
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{Habakkuk 2:14}<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"For the earth will be filled with knowledge of the GLORY of the Lord..."</span></blockquote>
If little Stambach is "filled with such glory" I'm confident that wherever <i>you</i> are, God's glory is clearly defined.<br />
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Enjoy this final picture of what autumn has to offer...can't forget the purple sunsets.</div>
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Happy November, lovely people!</div>
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-Christine</div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-656763278335854882011-10-25T15:22:00.000-07:002011-10-25T15:22:24.941-07:00Apples + Sugar + Cinnamon = Mushy Deliciousness.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Also know as APPLESAUCE. </div>
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Last Sunday, wewent over to our friends' house and gave canning applesauce a first try. </div>
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It was a team effort :)</div>
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And that is what I did today. I peeled, chopped, boiled, canned, and sealed homemade Apfelmus, again.<br />
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{Thank you, to my sweet friend Christina who had the two apple trees in her yard.}</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">They were bubblin' and brewin' away! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">My home smelled like mulled cider. </span></div>
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Which is about as close to Apple Cider I'll get while over here in Germany. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">Haven't found jugs or jars or bottles of it <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">anywhere</span>. I am quite sad about that. I mean, Germany comes up with <i>Gluhwein</i> (hot, spiced wine) but no cider?! </span></div>
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<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">Anyhoo, my friend Sarah brought over this massive electric canner, which was new to me. Pretty nifty, actually. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">Hinged, glass canning jar have to be cooked for 20 minutes in boiling water. With the sauce in it already, lids closed and all. All you have to do it dump water in the tub and let it do the work of sealing. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;"><div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">{</span>Isn't she so cute!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">}</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">And I really like the jars. So cute and old-fashioned. Much more practical than the boring old Mason jars. Although, in summer time I chug cold lemonade out of those big boys. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">I'm grateful for the 'meager five' 1 liter jars. Also grateful that Nate isn't as in-love with applesauce as I am. So that means </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 15px;">ALL FOR ME.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">My german friends think I'm nuts for eating applesauce by the bowlful. Generally, it's used alongside potatoes or some kind of sweet dessert. {Really?? Potatoes. Hmmm, might have to think about that one for a while.} I'll be sticking to PLAIN applesauce, thank you very much.</span></div>
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Well, that was my day today...hope I haven't yet bored ya'll with my everyday doings. I promise something a little more thrilling, next time. Now go eat some applesauce.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Much Saucy Love,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Christine </span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"> </span></span></div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-2886740063555096792011-10-18T05:25:00.000-07:002011-10-18T05:25:04.203-07:0025 ways to wear a scarf.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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With it being autumn, I wear a scarf nearly every single day. Actually, the scarf-season is more like a year-round thing over here in Germany. </div>
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I came across this really awesome video, maybe some of you have already seen it.</div>
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So fun! Although your wallet might suffer, now you have 25 new looks.</div>
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I am really regretting not buying a few more from these stands in Israel! I mean, look at these <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">COLORS</span>. Color makes my eyes happy.</div>
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So now, a visit to <a href="http://www.shopruche.com/index.php?main_page=advanced_search_result&search_in_description=1&keyword=scarf&inc_subcat=0&sort=20a&page=all">Ruche</a> online shop is <i>going</i> to happen.</div>
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I would have to say that the scarf, neck-wrap, shawl...whatever you call it, is Fashion's greatest and most versatile item. Wouldn't you agree? </div>
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I wish I could convince Nate to wear them. He argues that a scarf is the farthest thing from 'manly'. I totally disagree!</div>
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Well, I'm off to sort through my collection and maybe add to it.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">-Christine</span></div>
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-46515261063239564032011-10-13T15:04:00.000-07:002011-10-13T15:10:23.016-07:00Anniversary Gifts.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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October 12th will always be one of the BEST days in the year. </div>
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{<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Aren't we cute?</span>}</div>
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Some of the reasons (out of about <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">one million</span>) why I fell in love with Nate, is because he may possibly be the most oddly charming person I've ever met.<br />
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The goofier the gift, the better it is. At least I think that's his logic...</div>
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I had a seriously good laugh when I came across this little package of love.<br />
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And hey, I can't complain! Everything is useful and somewhat practical (eh, maybe not the Jäger. Or the candy. Or the movie.) <br />
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Whatever! It's the thought that counts. The guy knows how to make me smile :)<br />
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He's great, I love him, I'll keep him.<br />
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"Two are better than one, because they have a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">good reward for their toil</span>.</span> For if they fall, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;">one will lift up</span> his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">they keep warm</span>,</span> but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him--<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">a threefold cord is not quickly broken.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"</span>{Ecclesiastes 4:9-12}</blockquote>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">The rewards of working together are <u>always</u> better than the end product of your own workings! Note "toil." Definition: to work extremely hard or incessantly.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 15px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">{</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">That doesn't mean that teamwork is a <i>pleasant</i> process the whole entire time. I mean, let's be real here!} </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e06666;">I have physically fallen on my face, and I'm amazed at how easily Nate can grab my arm and pull me up. He's strong. Scary strong.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">At night, I am a leech for warmth. So, yes without the 160 lb. heater next to me, I'd freeze.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Any believing couple out there knows that this world (aka: the devil's playground) is out to get us, and rip marriages apart. Thankfully with God being our ever constant help, this strand-of-three plans to keep on keepin' on! Bring it.</span><br />
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I thank the Lord every single day for his goodness in giving me my hubby. He's pretty darn special, wouldn't trade him for the world.<br />
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Thanks for reading, peeps. Hope all you married lovers out there can stop and appreciate the tangible gift standing/sitting/lying next to you!! God is so good to us.<br />
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<br /></div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-35070643218467725672011-09-28T15:30:00.000-07:002011-09-28T15:40:50.560-07:00The Pumpkin Weekend.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Last Saturday AND Sunday, we went to the Kürbis Fest in Hitscherhof. We got a taste of pumpkin cake and spiced apple wine, and of course I left with a few hand-crafted goodies. Friends, Christina and Geoff and their 4 kids, (well, 5 if you count their 100 lb. Newfoundland dog) came along. Made for a fun afternoon on Sunday! </div>
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I'm discovering that the greatest things about traveling and visiting little events such as this one, is eating the food! Local treats and drinks...it's all amazing. One must have a willing palate, and it has resulted in new tastes and culinary inspirations for me.</div>
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My favorite cake was a savory green pumpkin, coffee tort with a lemon icing. Yum. I miss canned Libby's Pumpkin Puree, so I suppose if I'm motivated enough (which after this weekend I am) making my own pumpkin mash will need to be done. </div>
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So, if any of you, my lovely readers, have delicious pumpkin dessert recipes, I'll take 'em! I only have one recipe, from the Fabulous Natasha Koch Kitchen, and it's pretty much the most amazing thing I've ever eaten in my entire life. I eat it all. Down to the last crumb. By myself. </div>
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Okay! Now drooling. Rabbit trail, sorry. Moving on, have a look at some pictures of the weekend.</div>
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I am in LOVE with anything and all things that have to do with owls. I want my own Hedwig. This one looks either sleep-dreprived, doped up, or very angry. Either way, it made me laugh and is still dreadfully cute. (Notice baby owl in lower left! Eeee!)</div>
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And we couldn't figure out what this woolen thing was...a hat seemed the most appropriate, at the moment...<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yf1dr4HYSrU/ToOPWTxnvNI/AAAAAAAAAHc/xauV3NKn4Ts/s1600/cutegirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yf1dr4HYSrU/ToOPWTxnvNI/AAAAAAAAAHc/xauV3NKn4Ts/s640/cutegirl.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It was all quite lovely! Festive and fun, it put me in the mood for cozy cable sweaters, hot drinks, harvest time, and chilly nights. <br />
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I know it's midweek already, I apologize for the late posting. But I just had to share some of the weekend with you! <br />
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Love you all so much,<br />
Christine<br />
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(one random side note, I really like ivy. This was too pretty!)<br />
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my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-70415294426257972832011-09-13T15:11:00.000-07:002011-09-13T15:11:31.308-07:00Permanent Chalkboard<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Every time I visit a home decor wesite or my all-time favorite <a href="http://Vivaterra.com/">Vivaterra</a>, I remember how badly I want a large CHALKBOARD.</div>
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You know, the kinds you see in sweet little kitchens, bistros and cafes. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUK9RB2rwJU/Tm9HqUmsguI/AAAAAAAAAF8/heaNj3eQf1U/s1600/20090330_chicago_thegrocery_sj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUK9RB2rwJU/Tm9HqUmsguI/AAAAAAAAAF8/heaNj3eQf1U/s320/20090330_chicago_thegrocery_sj.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>Then I notice the price, and consider making my own or just living without. Choosing the latter, I hadn't thought about searching for one in a while. And to be sincere, I had serious doubts that I'd use the blackboard as often as a Schoolmarm or menu-planning Sous Chef. </div>
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However, new inspiration has come along! Psalm 1 is one of those chapters in the Bible that can (and should!) form a family's lifestyle. Who would want to erase that off a chalkboard?!<br />
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So I painted it on. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5SymDD366-0/Tm_LtwuGx2I/AAAAAAAAAGM/Sm2kU-nwSgw/s1600/IMG_6291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5SymDD366-0/Tm_LtwuGx2I/AAAAAAAAAGM/Sm2kU-nwSgw/s640/IMG_6291.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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On canvas, of course. </div>
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"firmly planted" is my favorite part of this verse.<br />
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Yesterday while walking Boomer and Wrigley I walked through a grove of apple trees, chock-full of fruit. Delicious, white fleshed, red veined apples. Of course, all within arm's reach, the tree had been plucked clean of apples. I wasn't the only one enjoying it! Well, I was reminded of this part of the verse...clearly, these trees were solid. Planted firmly. Producing (very tasty) fruit.<br />
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And I so want to be like that!<br />
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A firmly grounded, strong rooted, fruit producing family.<br />
So, I'm glad I can't erase this one...it's a daily reminder for me to plug into God's Word, and glean the most out of Scripture. <br />
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So, that was my weekend project. <br />
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Thought I'd add one picture in which Boomer insisted on being in. This is his after-dinner routine...sniffing for crumbs on the kitchen floor. Never fails. Every single night. A little distortion going on in this shot, but it's classic Boomer, and I thought you all might enjoy it :)<br />
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Have a beautiful weekend, friends! </div>
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my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-76246701271857146492011-09-02T09:23:00.000-07:002011-09-02T09:23:16.597-07:00Five Germans. And Water.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I LOVE baptism services. Big time. Our church had one this past Sunday, and it was such a celebration, I've thought about it all week. I had the privilege to view it through my camera's lens; it was fun hiding behind reeds while snapping shots of these 5 amazing men and women of faith. Just hearing their testimonies, and seeing their devotion and love for God, kept my eyes moist throughout the morning. Nate and I were the only Americans there, and singing along in our broken bits of "German-glish", felt a little bit of what I think Heaven will be like! Here's a couple collages of the pictures I took that day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qPIblnTVaQ/TmDpOMLaXMI/AAAAAAAAAEo/KPKqsOp0bBE/s1600/Baptism+Sunday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qPIblnTVaQ/TmDpOMLaXMI/AAAAAAAAAEo/KPKqsOp0bBE/s1600/Baptism+Sunday.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was reminded of <i>my</i> baptism, in 1996; it was such a life-changing event for me, and I know it was for these people too. Singing "I have decided to Follow Jesus" at Glendale church...definitely a memory never to forget.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BhDDAHea7M8/TmD-OHwVh4I/AAAAAAAAAEs/RaOhl3hy8fc/s1600/BAPTISM+SUNDAY1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BhDDAHea7M8/TmD-OHwVh4I/AAAAAAAAAEs/RaOhl3hy8fc/s1600/BAPTISM+SUNDAY1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Making your faith known in such a way as baptism, is a major event! Seeing the expressions on their faces was priceless...there was SO much joy in the air. Needless to say, we had a very happy day on Sunday. We really love our little church in Ramstein! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3679211250579581537.post-37478384033188804662011-08-26T03:37:00.001-07:002011-08-26T04:32:03.446-07:00I have signed up.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: center;">So I've finally decided to do this. I am officially a blogger now, never thought I'd be one to be sincere. But, to explain and share my thoughts on all of my life in Stambach, would be quite impossible without this. Yes, Facebook is great for sharing photos and experiences, but I suppose a blog is getting a little more personal. And I'm okay with that! As long as you are. Don't worry, nothing more than photos and my simple life will be seen here; I pray this doesn't bore you all to death. I find that God presents such perfect and interesting photo opportunities my way, that I must tell the stories behind them! So, here goes a trial that is long overdue. I remain loyal to Facebook also...can't say enough about the general ease of communicating with it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Plums. I had a LOT of them, given (more like relieved of) by some friends. Their tree was loaded with these purple gems. So a bucket full I had, and knowing pies and cakes would only add to our waistlines, I decided on attempting plum butter. (and I am still in denial about how much sugar really is in the recipe)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WIUGO72o3Y/Tld85ldpyrI/AAAAAAAAAB4/-Ilc-wzKoQU/s1600/IMG_5810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WIUGO72o3Y/Tld85ldpyrI/AAAAAAAAAB4/-Ilc-wzKoQU/s320/IMG_5810.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Cinnamon and nutmeg please!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqZTaXUrz1g/Tld88zduGuI/AAAAAAAAAB8/kgSS3Uolmfw/s1600/IMG_5828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqZTaXUrz1g/Tld88zduGuI/AAAAAAAAAB8/kgSS3Uolmfw/s320/IMG_5828.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It is Thanksgiving explosion in my mouth. Amazing.<br />
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And, while waiting for the brew to boil down, I take a peek outside and discover why so many of my apples have puncture wounds.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SLO__IEZqqM/Tld-wLTRPSI/AAAAAAAAACA/fjjU_b0_Qdo/s1600/IMG_5742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SLO__IEZqqM/Tld-wLTRPSI/AAAAAAAAACA/fjjU_b0_Qdo/s320/IMG_5742.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Caught red-handed. Bad mongrel!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4dVZ3BlBMQ/Tld-zhPH2sI/AAAAAAAAACE/AV6RBjsQHqY/s1600/IMG_5787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4dVZ3BlBMQ/Tld-zhPH2sI/AAAAAAAAACE/AV6RBjsQHqY/s320/IMG_5787.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Wrigley watching his brother eating the forbidden fruit.<br />
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Green grasshopper was hanging out with Nate. I shall never fear these springy insects, there's something friendly and cheery about these little guys. Most will argue that, but being a country, I consider them my friends.<br />
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It's quite clear that even this tiny bug has a Creator, especially when you can see the details and precision on it's body; so I am humbled and yet proud to say that the same Creator cares for me and my (slightly larger that Grasshopper's) life. <br />
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More to come. We'll see how this "grand trend of blogging" plays out!<br />
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</div></div>my sweet Stambachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13175740884711212439noreply@blogger.com1