tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55904281931607276772024-03-13T05:05:54.617-05:00Your Merry MailboxMerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.comBlogger255125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-56869971089154822982015-11-13T06:31:00.000-06:002015-11-13T06:31:46.096-06:00Friday Favorites: Shopping Our ClosetIt's crunch time.<br />
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You have pictures this weekend. And you just CAN NOT find a thing to wear! Sound the alarms. Christmas is ruined. You'll never be able to mail cards again. I mean, this is the worst thing that could happen ever. But before we go all Brintey circa 2007... did you try shopping your closet?<br />
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We didn't think so.<br />
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You will be so surprised at what you can find in there. Better yet - you probably have a few pieces that you wear over and over and over again that will work. AND if you wear them over and over again, it probably means you feel comfortable wearing it which is of the utmost importance when taking pics - you want to FEEL good.<br />
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<b>Example 1:</b> You have probably seen this pic on Pinterest over 5000 times (that's roughly the number of times it has been pinned. Crazy.) Cindy didn't spend tons of time on clothes, she picked darling pieces for her two bigs (that are tiny little BABIES in this picture) and shopped the closet for Josh and herself.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBVCAY9H5_c/VkXTqJwornI/AAAAAAAAD8w/GxftiOOdVaA/s1600/MunsonJOY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBVCAY9H5_c/VkXTqJwornI/AAAAAAAAD8w/GxftiOOdVaA/s640/MunsonJOY.jpg" width="462" /></a></div>
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<b>Example 2</b>: Sometimes it's fun to shop your friends' closets, too! Cindy borrowed the blouse for a friend, and mixed and matched pieces she owned for the kiddos only buying some of the accessory pieces like those boot socks for Anna (!!!) and the puffer vest and leggings for Caro. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7fzECYj_r8A/VkXTqBWKsXI/AAAAAAAAD8s/192Yio0DXKc/s1600/MunsonTailgate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7fzECYj_r8A/VkXTqBWKsXI/AAAAAAAAD8s/192Yio0DXKc/s640/MunsonTailgate.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Example 3</b>: Ryan has had that jacket forever it seems, and I purchased that tunic and shirt. (on clearance, y'all. It was an XS. Why would you even make an XS maternity top. You can't tell from this pic, but it was basically a crop top and I was just using it for its sleeves).</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mB3a4hql8_M/VkXVGx1G2mI/AAAAAAAAD9M/My7Xs-KN2Z4/s1600/bump0100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mB3a4hql8_M/VkXVGx1G2mI/AAAAAAAAD9M/My7Xs-KN2Z4/s640/bump0100.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>Example 4: </b>I didn't buy one thing for this series. Well, I'm lying... I bought the onesie. Everything else was from our closets. And no, this wasn't our Christmas card pic, but it is something I still look back on and love just as much as if I would have spent tons of time on clothes. Emmy's entire outfit is a hand-me-down! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WqcYaOSsubI/VkXWkSGHXQI/AAAAAAAAD9k/P5qhmkeDQlQ/s1600/fencebeforeafter1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WqcYaOSsubI/VkXWkSGHXQI/AAAAAAAAD9k/P5qhmkeDQlQ/s640/fencebeforeafter1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Example 5</b>: I borrowed this top from Cindy and I did order the girls dresses but they were $8 each.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_BmHMWgwKXE/VkXWshbD6nI/AAAAAAAAD9s/iWQSO01JWj8/s1600/longhairgirls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_BmHMWgwKXE/VkXWshbD6nI/AAAAAAAAD9s/iWQSO01JWj8/s640/longhairgirls.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
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So, feel encouraged dear reader! You don't have to spend a ton of money to look good and more importantly to FEEL good! Tis the season of celebrating your family. Telling your story. And spreading cheer. Because that, is the point of this crazy, inconsistent, scatterbrained blog.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXRzGOqF87c/Vg2htWw7aWI/AAAAAAAADwo/u4vZvZiB4-8/s1600/FridayFavorites.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXRzGOqF87c/Vg2htWw7aWI/AAAAAAAADwo/u4vZvZiB4-8/s1600/FridayFavorites.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Little Bit of Everything Blog</a> - <a href="https://graceandloveblog.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Grace and Love Blog</a> - <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/" target="_blank">Momfessionals</a></span></div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-28480541188997771212015-11-09T06:00:00.000-06:002015-11-09T06:00:05.520-06:00The Momma's Guide to Memes...Dear Readers, it is upon us. Halloween was basically months ago on the Christmas version of telling time and Thanksgiving is days away. This means that it is go time. Consider these snarky, funny, stupid memes one of our gifts to you. Save them all. Use them wisely. And let's welcome the holidays together.<br />
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In case you're still wondering what kind of card you want to send, may we suggest these... because<br />
#funny #butawful #butsostinkingfunny<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GkTBPXYAiko/Vj-80Ft5v9I/AAAAAAAAD68/dcFsWJSmU1E/s1600/8-board-games-meme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GkTBPXYAiko/Vj-80Ft5v9I/AAAAAAAAD68/dcFsWJSmU1E/s640/8-board-games-meme.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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For the person that brags about how many cards they "have" to mail...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vW9tdE6SgDM/Vj-8zdJIJpI/AAAAAAAAD6s/1xdJZW8o4i0/s1600/56676290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vW9tdE6SgDM/Vj-8zdJIJpI/AAAAAAAAD6s/1xdJZW8o4i0/s400/56676290.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In case you don't send cards (what!?!) ... make this your profile pic. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3L5UwVNDgBE/Vj-80feHnNI/AAAAAAAAD64/h-3gFCSGUME/s1600/Christmas%2Bcards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3L5UwVNDgBE/Vj-80feHnNI/AAAAAAAAD64/h-3gFCSGUME/s640/Christmas%2Bcards.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To send to your hipster friends that go with paperless cards this year... </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRlGDX4KTS0/Vj-804tky5I/AAAAAAAAD7E/DmgHqDPB174/s1600/happy-holidays-someone-using-christmas-ecard-someecards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRlGDX4KTS0/Vj-804tky5I/AAAAAAAAD7E/DmgHqDPB174/s640/happy-holidays-someone-using-christmas-ecard-someecards.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Because #funny #andonlypartiallytrue </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0jZaEYKZpM/Vj-814hufeI/AAAAAAAAD7Y/0-lkyNMeGi4/s1600/o-SOMEECARDS-facebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="446" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0jZaEYKZpM/Vj-814hufeI/AAAAAAAAD7Y/0-lkyNMeGi4/s640/o-SOMEECARDS-facebook.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Another one for those green friends.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZOZOgxm4R0/Vj-82b_gNFI/AAAAAAAAD7o/NF0Y7I3CZeg/s1600/paperless-cards-feel-better-tree-christmas-ecards-someecards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZOZOgxm4R0/Vj-82b_gNFI/AAAAAAAAD7o/NF0Y7I3CZeg/s640/paperless-cards-feel-better-tree-christmas-ecards-someecards.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just remember know matter what kind of card you do or don't send, we should all take some advice from Clark...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ln3H5fN9DV4/Vj-81oNHmxI/AAAAAAAAD7g/gr-MTqFZQcI/s1600/lXomBe8.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ln3H5fN9DV4/Vj-81oNHmxI/AAAAAAAAD7g/gr-MTqFZQcI/s1600/lXomBe8.gif" /></a></div>
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**Disclaimer - we didn't create any of these memes. We googled them by searching "christmas memes/Christmas card memes/Christmas gifs". To whoever is the originator of such memes - you are fantastic and we applaud you. That is all**<br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-91020596738019162022015-11-03T05:00:00.000-06:002015-11-03T05:00:04.775-06:00BAM - It's Christmas Season<div style="text-align: center;">
Hi friends!</div>
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So this happened this weekend</div>
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And while we do CLEARLY love Christmas,</div>
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we aren't immune to the stress and busy that the holiday season can bring.</div>
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And sometimes, Christmas Cards can be an added stress.</div>
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Whew, there we said it.</div>
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But, they don't have to be.</div>
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And we hope that our blog shares tips and tricks to make your card a fun, great experience.</div>
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To keep you encouraged this season we polled a great group of people (our friends) and asked</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF OPENING A CHRISTMAS CARD?</span></b></div>
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We hope their answers inspire you to press on and SPREAD the MERRY!</div>
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++++++++++++++++++++++++++</div>
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Seeing a beautiful photo of friends and how they've changed in the year. </div>
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Seeing the pictures and reading a letter if there is one</div>
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I enjoy and love the pictures (how much the kiddos have grown) and the
creative themes. Also I have fun reading the letters or even a short
note. Look forward to them each year! </div>
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Pictures ... Or money!</div>
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Reading the notes that come with the cards.</div>
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Seeing the sweet faces looking back at you! Love seeing how families
have changed from the past year in their photo. I keep all the cards
from the previous years! </div>
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#1 Seeing who it is from...#2 Seeing the graphic/photo...#3 reading the greeting/message...</div>
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Seeing the cute family photo</div>
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Feeling like you're catching up with an old friend!</div>
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Knowing that the person who sent it to us was thinking about us</div>
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Love seeing how the kids have grown and reading about all our friends
and family and how creative they were with their Christmas card!</div>
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1. cute pictures -- and being reminded of friends and family that I don't get to see very often</div>
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2. colors -- so bright and cheery! :)</div>
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3. not finding glitter -- I'm not a big glitter person so cards sans glitter are the best</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(friend, we hear ya...have you seen <a href="http://www.sendyourenemiesglitter.com/">this</a>?)</span></div>
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Seeing how much a family has changed from one year to the next. </div>
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Love seeing who they are from!!</div>
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The love!</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(This response was from a 6 year old, I think she has it figured out!)</span></i></div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-87951519938873844702015-10-30T05:00:00.000-05:002015-10-30T05:00:02.032-05:00Ready, Set...ORDER!Hi friends! November is almost here and for most of you card loving folks, that means it is time to order your cards. There are TONS and TONS of places for you to order darling cards, how will you decide? Never fear, the Merry Mommas are here to help!<br />
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<b>[Large Online Retailers]</b><br />
<a href="https://www.tinyprints.com/">Tiny Prints</a> - The Merry Mommas have used Tiny Prints for various occasions, including Christmas Cards, and their product is great. They have very traditional cards. Recommended!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-heGE2fOeP4o/VjJuEtHXjGI/AAAAAAAAD5E/UBzc-Hs8l9U/s1600/tp.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-heGE2fOeP4o/VjJuEtHXjGI/AAAAAAAAD5E/UBzc-Hs8l9U/s640/tp.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.minted.com/">Minted</a> - We think of Minted as the hipster sister of Tiny Prints. We have used them and liked them!<br />
Recommended!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RAnsXl_ijCg/VjJur7sYVDI/AAAAAAAAD5M/mRL3fMlso_E/s1600/minted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RAnsXl_ijCg/VjJur7sYVDI/AAAAAAAAD5M/mRL3fMlso_E/s640/minted.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.maydesigns.com/">May Designs</a> - You may remember this company from one of <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/08/friday-favorites-edition-cindy.html">FF posts.</a> We haven't used them for cards, but we LOVE their notebooks! Recommended.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T9lqlsNwoi0/VjJvGeEkBCI/AAAAAAAAD5U/QoTcyQ6JY3w/s1600/maydesigns.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T9lqlsNwoi0/VjJvGeEkBCI/AAAAAAAAD5U/QoTcyQ6JY3w/s640/maydesigns.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.zazzle.com/">Zazzle</a> - We haven't used Zazzle for Christmas cards, but we have used them. We were totally satisfied with their product. Recommended!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSehPe8WUc8/VjJvoQyEILI/AAAAAAAAD5c/EC3okqrTkpE/s1600/Zazzle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSehPe8WUc8/VjJvoQyEILI/AAAAAAAAD5c/EC3okqrTkpE/s640/Zazzle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.finestationery.com/">Fine Stationery</a> - Same song, second verse. We have ordered stationery from this retailer, but not a Christmas card. Satisfied with the process and produce. Recommended!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RhRplI_1WP4/VjJwJGhAiGI/AAAAAAAAD5k/KSsvhWPcwPE/s1600/fs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RhRplI_1WP4/VjJwJGhAiGI/AAAAAAAAD5k/KSsvhWPcwPE/s640/fs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mpix.com/">mpix</a> - Some of our favorite photographers and graphic designers use mpix and RAVE about them. We trust them, so recommended!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HeMen5PUmrw/VjJxIHXf-8I/AAAAAAAAD5w/s8TuROhfY5g/s1600/FilledWithJoy-5x7FlatCard-Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HeMen5PUmrw/VjJxIHXf-8I/AAAAAAAAD5w/s8TuROhfY5g/s640/FilledWithJoy-5x7FlatCard-Front.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CUsJsviqpIk/VjJxKDyo2sI/AAAAAAAAD54/taP8UT7EB50/s1600/FilledWithJoy-5x7FlatCard-Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CUsJsviqpIk/VjJxKDyo2sI/AAAAAAAAD54/taP8UT7EB50/s640/FilledWithJoy-5x7FlatCard-Back.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.peartreegreetings.com/">Pear Tree</a> - We haven't used Pear Tree, but after looking at their website, they have some great stuff. Let us know if you have used Pear Tree, we'd love to know your thoughts.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GVomLOAwzvU/VjJxhp7y5jI/AAAAAAAAD6A/-ptD62PLaFI/s1600/PT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GVomLOAwzvU/VjJxhp7y5jI/AAAAAAAAD6A/-ptD62PLaFI/s640/PT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.snapfish.com/photo-gift/home">Snapfish</a> - Looks like they have some fun designs, any readers use them?<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-adccL7PBTl0/VjJyQYIUdgI/AAAAAAAAD6M/yH1dfE9Vgsk/s1600/snap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-adccL7PBTl0/VjJyQYIUdgI/AAAAAAAAD6M/yH1dfE9Vgsk/s640/snap.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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<b>[Large Big Box Stores]</b><br />
Many of the large big box stores including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart and Target, have photo labs in house and templates you can choose for your card. They have great, fun and festive designs that typically have a pretty darn good price point.<br />
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<b>[Print Centers]</b><br />
If you design or have someone design your card you may choose to have it printed at your local <a href="http://www.fedex.com/us/office/">Kinko's</a> (well, I think they are called FedEx stores now) or <a href="http://www.officedepot.com/a/design-print-and-ship/">Office Depot</a>. Merry Momma Katy has used Office Depot in the past and her cards are absolutely PRECIOUS! Merry Momma Cindy has used <a href="http://www.overnightprints.com/">Overnight Prints</a> and is 100% satisfied with their product. <a href="http://www.vistaprint.com/?no_redirect=1&xnav=logo">Vista Print</a> is similar to Overnight Prints and could be used as well.<br />
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<b>[Mom and Pop Shops]</b><br />
Lots of folks use local graphic designers - we LOVE ours... <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/09/designer-showcase-jumping-jax-designs.html">Jumping Jax Designs</a> and <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/09/designer-showcase-quick-designs.html">Quick Design Company</a> - to design their cards. Many times the designs have a print company they use and you just get to pic up your finished product. #winning Another way to support local folks is to use <a href="https://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> to find local designers/printers.<br />
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<b>[No pics, just a card...please. :)]</b><br />
If you are in the market for cards without pictures or you are sending cards on behalf of your work place both <a href="http://www.hallmark.com/">Hallmark</a> and <a href="http://www.papyrusonline.com/?gclid=CjwKEAjwh8exBRDyyqqH9pvf1ncSJAAu4OE3DT_Q72inn9ZaeFFuGGILG7ZsYVRIsJiES8RF8yXsDRoCXmDw_wcB">Papyrus</a> have a great selection.<br />
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No matter where you buy and print your cards, sending love to family and friends is really how we share the MERRY and we can't wait to see your MERRY!<br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-4085643456975746682015-10-29T05:28:00.000-05:002015-10-29T05:28:07.319-05:00TBT: Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9MZjMRiRnY/VjHz8yL3RqI/AAAAAAAAD40/ktzTp9p47ME/s1600/12195866_10208518693913447_872353595009600664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9MZjMRiRnY/VjHz8yL3RqI/AAAAAAAAD40/ktzTp9p47ME/s400/12195866_10208518693913447_872353595009600664_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's Thursday. </div>
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And you know what that means...</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>THROWBACK THURSDAY</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Edition: HALLOWEEN!!!</span></b></div>
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We are joining our fellow BCS Bloggers this week to highlight some of Halloween Past! Make sure to follow the loop so you can check out all the posts... and maybe get some awesome ideas! So, here we go... </div>
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The Brown Girls: Melinda and Cindy</div>
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Circa: 1980 and 1978</div>
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OMG, right?!? Those Strawberry Shortcake costumes are scary! Y'all remember those plastic mask? They would break if just put them on wrong! Goodness. Eek!</div>
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Now, have you ever seen two cuter angels? I think NOT! And <i>we totally were and are angels</i> so that makes the costume even that much more fun! But the best part of these costumes is that they were made by my mom and grandmother. They're pretty darn talented! Thanks Mom and Mid!</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IFx6wzl2P_E/Um7WyWbUv3I/AAAAAAAABFM/CR-JEt9K6Ik/s640/CM+collage.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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And for your continued viewing pleasure:</div>
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The Guercio Kids: Jody, Jeremy and Katy</div>
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Circa: 1983 and 1986(ish)</div>
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Mom always let us pick our costumes. Naturally Jeremy's stature and size made him a great candidate for Superman, my cuteness made me the perfect tiger cub (or was it my Dad's LSU thing) and Jody was a zombie. (Please note that zombies can't stand upright. Clearly.)</div>
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A few years went by and Jeremy's con-man cuteness lead him to choose Pirate, me, well... I was a <u><b>good</b></u> witch. And Jody outgrew Halloween, or maybe he was just "the boy next door". </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zVOwXEeez5I/Um_qdOALyJI/AAAAAAAABFo/llYczLWxEnU/s1600/GKHalloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zVOwXEeez5I/Um_qdOALyJI/AAAAAAAABFo/llYczLWxEnU/s640/GKHalloween.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
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Happy Halloween from the Merry Mommas! We clearly could have benefited from some makeup tips which is exactly what you will get when you visit <a href="http://makingmrsm.com/scarecrow-halloween-tease/">Making Mrs. M</a> - she's giving some tips on simple Halloween make-up that even beginners can master!</div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-36812740851526497902015-10-27T05:00:00.000-05:002015-10-27T05:00:04.131-05:00An Update on Help!Hi y'all! It's Cindy and I know you have just been dying to hear an update on what we wore for our Christmas card pics and I am happy to oblige! Click <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/09/help.html">here</a> to refresh your memory on our choices!<br />
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First a little update on the day... It was WARM! Maybe even close to HOT. We started setting up for the pics around 5:30 and it was about 95 degrees. Dang that October weather! One day it's in the low 70s and the next mid 90s! Oh well! We (and I really mean my sweet hubby) pressed on. We had a rather extensive set up so he was just a tad sweaty by picture time. And I'm not telling you about the set up, you will just have to wait. :) Everything was set up and ready to go around 6pm and the lighting was just beautiful, the sun was setting and the girls were pretty well behaved. #bribeswereused #everytime #picsareimportant<br />
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Josh's outfit pretty much stayed the same. He actually had a cream undershirt, but opted not to wear it. #95degrees<br />
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I borrowed some cute boot socks (thanks, Kelly!) and Millie's outfit was complete. I ended up doing a single french braid with her hair.<br />
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Caroline wore outfit #3, the light denim jeans and fringe sweater. I found a cream waffle shirt that had a tiny floral print and it looked so cute under the sweater.We gave her two cute braids.<br />
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The front runner #2 won for Annaliese. I rolled up her sleeves to help her be a little bit cooler. And I think I may have switched her jeans, but I can't remember. #sorry #itsbeenawhile We kept her hair down in her cute little bob.<br />
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Now...on to me. I definitely subscribe to the #ifmommaainthappynobodyshappy and I just wasn't super happy with my choices. I spent a little (read hours) time online and then ended up running up to Old Navy the Saturday before our pics and found a couple of additional options. After lots of texts and pics to Katy I choose a plaid shirt #plaidisin, skinny jeans, my brown booties and the cream sweater. The temperature kept me from wearing the sweater, but I was happy and not too hot. #winning #happymomma<br />
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And now I am patiently waiting to see them! #okaynotpatiently And I can't wait to share the final product with all of you!<br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-49815778783744649932015-10-23T12:19:00.003-05:002015-10-23T13:01:56.755-05:00Friday Favorites: ALL the Cards<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>It's FRIDAY y'all! </b></u></div>
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And there is only ONE more Friday left in October which means November is almost here. Which clearly means YOU BEST BE GETTING TO PICKING OUT WHAT KIND OF CARD YOU WANT TO SEND. </div>
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#yesallcapswerencessary</div>
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#becauseChristmascards</div>
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#clearly</div>
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So today we are just going to focus on some of our favorite types of cards to help you narrow down your selection. </div>
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#youarewelcome</div>
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<u>YEAR IN REVIEW</u></h3>
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Both of the Momma's LOVE love super LOVE the year-in-review infographic that Kristin designed for her family! This works great for anyone. Married/singled/kid/no kids - there is so much to tell and you can do it in such a unique way. Did we mention that we love it? </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i2L9-3F8QlM/Vim6TUS5cFI/AAAAAAAAD2s/IftbwpiBQvM/s1600/Fields_Christmas_Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i2L9-3F8QlM/Vim6TUS5cFI/AAAAAAAAD2s/IftbwpiBQvM/s640/Fields_Christmas_Back.jpg" width="462" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/search/label/Year%20in%20Review">TazandBelly</a><br />
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We also loved this darling chalkboard inspired version with a darling family photo included! You know we love searching Etsy and this one by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/165825359/photo-christmas-card-year-in-review?ref=sr_gallery_4&ga_search_query=chalkboard+year+in+review+christmas+card&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=all">LNZart</a> is perfect!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6caP3T9XF4o/Vipo5QtVRgI/AAAAAAAAD38/qbizLFilSPg/s1600/chalkboardYIR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6caP3T9XF4o/Vipo5QtVRgI/AAAAAAAAD38/qbizLFilSPg/s640/chalkboardYIR.jpg" width="462" /></a></div>
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<u>DUAL PURPOSE</u></h3>
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What's better than sending one card to family and friends? Well, sending TWO cards of course! But clearly ain't nobody got time for that. You mail cards to spread cheer and give updates, so use this as an opportunity to make a <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/search/label/dual%20purpose">baby announcement...</a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5ASzjFDW9U/Vim6UHZWUwI/AAAAAAAAD28/h6lbiWBJvZE/s1600/baileysfinals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5ASzjFDW9U/Vim6UHZWUwI/AAAAAAAAD28/h6lbiWBJvZE/s640/baileysfinals.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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let people know you've <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/search/label/ReadersSpeak">changed addresses</a>... </div>
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or that you're getting <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/search/label/savethedate">MERRIED!</a> </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMHH3KPOAtM/Vim606L301I/AAAAAAAAD3Y/f_YsrbosXP4/s1600/Donna%2526Travis_11-10%2BCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMHH3KPOAtM/Vim606L301I/AAAAAAAAD3Y/f_YsrbosXP4/s640/Donna%2526Travis_11-10%2BCard.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>EXTENDED FAMILY</u></h3>
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This particular design from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/cardsetcetera?ref=unav_listing-h">CardsEtc </a>is no longer available but I'm sure you can find something similar. **UPDATE - she just <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/106960002/photo-christmas-card-holiday-card?ref=shop_home_active_1">added it back</a> to the shop! Wahoo! ** <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--8xlaDvkOSc/ViprlSjgdWI/AAAAAAAAD4I/vos8XRdsAeg/s1600/extendedfamily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--8xlaDvkOSc/ViprlSjgdWI/AAAAAAAAD4I/vos8XRdsAeg/s640/extendedfamily.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We couldn't stop smiling when we found <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/346003183842504824/">this picture</a>. How darling are these grandparents surrounded by all of their little grands!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sWvO3BU6qZc/Viprmp_pTxI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/XWijCc_3ZSM/s1600/grandparents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sWvO3BU6qZc/Viprmp_pTxI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/XWijCc_3ZSM/s640/grandparents.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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That's just a few of our favorite types of cards! What kind of card are you sending this year? Anything we should add to the list?<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXRzGOqF87c/Vg2htWw7aWI/AAAAAAAADwo/u4vZvZiB4-8/s1600/FridayFavorites.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXRzGOqF87c/Vg2htWw7aWI/AAAAAAAADwo/u4vZvZiB4-8/s1600/FridayFavorites.jpg" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Little Bit of Everything Blog</a> - <a href="https://graceandloveblog.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Grace and Love Blog</a> - <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/" target="_blank">Momfessionals</a></span></div>
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MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-62530126970887352982015-10-21T09:25:00.002-05:002015-10-21T09:25:49.832-05:00WWLW: Envelope Flair<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, it's true.</div>
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The Merry Mommas LOVE envelope flair! I mean, we focus LOTS on what's inside that envelope, but it's nice to give that outside some love, too!</div>
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You may be asking yourself, </div>
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"WHAT IN THE WORLD is envelope flair?"</div>
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Well, it's all the little things on an envelope that add that extra WOW!</div>
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Here, let us show you...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tXGprANBX2E/ViegT28m0_I/AAAAAAAAD2U/J5Jv4mcTE7I/s1600/holidayenvelopes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tXGprANBX2E/ViegT28m0_I/AAAAAAAAD2U/J5Jv4mcTE7I/s640/holidayenvelopes.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
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<u><b>STAMPS</b></u></h3>
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<a href="https://store.usps.com/store/browse/category.jsp?categoryId=usps-promo-category&categoryNavIds=%3fcategoryId=usps-promo-category&categoryNavIds=usps-promo-category">United States Postal Service</a> offers some really great holiday stamps. They can add that extra, "Why, yes, I did stand in line for an hour to get the cute Charlie Brown stamps!" to any envelope. (Or, I sent my husband. Twice. because the first time he only bought a book, which is exactly 120 stamps too few.) :) </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k6b_paS7hsA/Vid0Dh07lxI/AAAAAAAAD00/LARHlFBVxv0/s1600/USPSHoliday2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k6b_paS7hsA/Vid0Dh07lxI/AAAAAAAAD00/LARHlFBVxv0/s640/USPSHoliday2015.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.zazzle.com/stamps">Zazzle</a></b> has TONS of unique options! Just search "Christmas" or "Holiday" stamps. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-poFPvLFYn7w/VieYKsWi-TI/AAAAAAAAD1E/edvAhw2JYpU/s1600/zazzle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-poFPvLFYn7w/VieYKsWi-TI/AAAAAAAAD1E/edvAhw2JYpU/s640/zazzle.jpg" width="603" /></a></div>
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And you can customize them with your own pictures! How fun would it be to give a sneak peak to your card ON YOUR ENVELOPE! And sometimes you can't choose just one pic, this gives you the option of selecting just one more!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R635UsO7TKo/VieYKrHPQJI/AAAAAAAAD1I/qXGPeT-0qGI/s1600/Landrystamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R635UsO7TKo/VieYKrHPQJI/AAAAAAAAD1I/qXGPeT-0qGI/s320/Landrystamp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<u><b>RETURN ADDRESS</b></u></h3>
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<b><i><u>Stamps</u></i> </b>- You can fancy up your address with ink stamps! There is literally hundreds of thousands of different places you can get stamps, but we headed to <a href="http://etsy.com/">Etsy</a> to find some fun ones for you!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GB5DBoLFKSw/VieabBik10I/AAAAAAAAD1g/CwyYPM_UQJo/s1600/texasstamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GB5DBoLFKSw/VieabBik10I/AAAAAAAAD1g/CwyYPM_UQJo/s640/texasstamp.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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(<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/250151436/custom-state-return-address-stamp-state?ref=shop_home_active_2">Seller - PaperTree Press</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oVMCI2gPFXU/VieabCh86_I/AAAAAAAAD1w/b4ihN0bZhV0/s1600/Primelestamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oVMCI2gPFXU/VieabCh86_I/AAAAAAAAD1w/b4ihN0bZhV0/s640/Primelestamp.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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(<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/76488945/custom-return-address-stamp-simple-hand?ref=shop_home_feat_1">Seller - Primele</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5BO7VU4x-c/UnlxEVEYiVI/AAAAAAAABIQ/IT6n6kyo42A/s1600/ink+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5BO7VU4x-c/UnlxEVEYiVI/AAAAAAAABIQ/IT6n6kyo42A/s1600/ink+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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(<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/117387630/christmas-return-address-stamp-holiday?ref=sr_gallery_6&ga_search_query=christmas+return+address+stamp&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_ref=auto1&ga_search_type=all&ga_facet=christmas+return+address+stamp">Seller - Stamp Out Online</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/161813020/christmas-return-address-stamp-self?ref=sr_gallery_5&ga_search_query=christmas+return+address+stamp&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_ref=auto1&ga_search_type=all&ga_facet=christmas+return+address+stamp">Seller - AllisCreations</a>)</div>
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(<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/222836033/personalized-custom-return-address?ref=unav_listing-same">Seller - Brittany Lauren Design</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/37276449/christmas-snowman-return-address-custom?ref=unav_listing-other">Seller - Sparrow Footstamps</a>)</div>
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<b><i><u>Labels</u></i> </b>- If you order cards from some of the major online retailers, many of them will have the option to add address labels. Again, this is a darling way to give the receiver a little sneak peek at what's inside!</div>
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OUTSIDE<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DaMpCDbM7jQ/VieabD_uDOI/AAAAAAAAD1o/_Sijv691iLM/s1600/jeweled_joy-holiday_return_address_labels-hello_little_one-stormy_blue-blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DaMpCDbM7jQ/VieabD_uDOI/AAAAAAAAD1o/_Sijv691iLM/s1600/jeweled_joy-holiday_return_address_labels-hello_little_one-stormy_blue-blue.jpg" /></a></div>
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INSIDE</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AvthwuYLHts/Vieaber2UlI/AAAAAAAAD10/ESQZDxAIV9I/s1600/tinyexample.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AvthwuYLHts/Vieaber2UlI/AAAAAAAAD10/ESQZDxAIV9I/s640/tinyexample.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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This card and the address return label are from <a href="https://www.tinyprints.com/shop/holiday-cards.htm">Tiny Prints</a>.</div>
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<b><u><i>Embossed</i></u> </b>- If you are a little more on the formal side, you may choose to emboss your envelopes. We love the distinguished look of an embossed envelope. Feel free to send us your cards! (We're serious!) <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/wedding/return-address-embossers.html">Paper Source</a> has a great selection of embossers.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFBBy0Qxe84/Unl192tKlgI/AAAAAAAABIw/M_o5Y2YBiLw/s1600/emb+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFBBy0Qxe84/Unl192tKlgI/AAAAAAAABIw/M_o5Y2YBiLw/s1600/emb+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<u>WASHI TAPE</u></h3>
Washi tape can be a bit intimidating, which is silly, because the whole point of it is to add some fun to your various projects without the stress. Take a look at some of things we found!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8b5khqkotyE/Vieb2t7snDI/AAAAAAAAD18/nJD3eBDcDVo/s1600/nestofposies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8b5khqkotyE/Vieb2t7snDI/AAAAAAAAD18/nJD3eBDcDVo/s640/nestofposies.jpg" width="450" /></a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.nestofposies-blog.com/2013/12/addressing-christmas-envelopes/"> Nest of Posies</a></div>
I mean, let's just discuss her entire style of envelope addressing. Click on that link because she does an entire post on her tips. We LOVE that she used a VARIETY of stamps! Darling. Her handwriting? AMAZING. And that washi tape adds an extra pop! It is definitely on this momma's list this year!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QhsymIKPc64/Viec4GS84XI/AAAAAAAAD2E/jzmA5lPBuyw/s1600/washienvelopecLP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QhsymIKPc64/Viec4GS84XI/AAAAAAAAD2E/jzmA5lPBuyw/s640/washienvelopecLP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://crazylittleprojects.com/2012/11/washi-tape-holiday-ideas-giveaway.html">Crazy Little Projects</a></div>
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If you use more of a traditional addressing system (read: white labels) you can always add more washi tape for that extra pop of fun! You could even just use a tiny piece on the back of the envelope as a seal. And done!<br />
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See, you totally love <b>ENVELOPE FLAIR </b>now too, don't you! :)<br />
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Know what we LOVE? When y'all leave us comments! Seriously, we can't blog about what you LOVE unless you tell us. So share the merry and spread the love... </div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-39020536320650399942015-10-19T03:30:00.000-05:002015-10-19T03:30:02.729-05:00From merry to scary...Halloween is right around the corner - so today we are trading in our merry for a little bit of scary. And don't worry, we focus all of our crazy on Christmas, so these are easy ways for you to make Halloween a SCREAM...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_gV4U6Vl-h8/ViPiWDefn9I/AAAAAAAADzo/L6U3rwbBuak/s1600/Hauntyourhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_gV4U6Vl-h8/ViPiWDefn9I/AAAAAAAADzo/L6U3rwbBuak/s640/Hauntyourhouse.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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1. <b>Ghosts and goblins</b> are an easy way to add a little fright to your night! Our friend, Kim at <a href="http://www.huntandhost.net/easy-cheesecloth-ghosts/">Hunt and Host</a> just did a super easy tutorial on making ghosts out of cheese cloth.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCjm9WHNz9s/ViPjR53bigI/AAAAAAAADzw/MRx8IaQ26BI/s1600/easiest-cheesecloth-ghosts-huntandhost.net_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCjm9WHNz9s/ViPjR53bigI/AAAAAAAADzw/MRx8IaQ26BI/s640/easiest-cheesecloth-ghosts-huntandhost.net_.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.huntandhost.net/easy-cheesecloth-ghosts/" style="text-align: start;">Hunt and Host</a><span style="text-align: start;"> </span></div>
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2. <b>Bats and spiders and monsters</b> - Oh my!! Merry Momma K made the cutest haunted bunting out of egg cartons, paint and pipe cleaners almost four years ago and she still hangs them up every year! This is seriously so easy and so much fun for the entire family. And you probably have everything you need at home!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndl6TsXKoEA/ViRV9Ft_uHI/AAAAAAAAD0k/TzOvCZh-W3A/s1600/HalloweenCraft8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndl6TsXKoEA/ViRV9Ft_uHI/AAAAAAAAD0k/TzOvCZh-W3A/s640/HalloweenCraft8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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3. <b>Pumpkins</b>! Halloween isn't the same without pumpkins and Holly just did a great PINspired post on <a href="http://iwillservewhileiwait.blogspot.com/2015/09/pumpkin-inspiration-giveaway.html">EASY pumpkin hacks</a> that everyone can do. (We love the way you think, Holly!) Check out her favorite pins and make sure to let her know which ones you try for yourself!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-370dzVi-sTE/ViPmAvh3tCI/AAAAAAAADz8/tfmniFjxsus/s1600/pumpkin%2Bcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-370dzVi-sTE/ViPmAvh3tCI/AAAAAAAADz8/tfmniFjxsus/s640/pumpkin%2Bcollage.jpg" width="606" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://iwillservewhileiwait.blogspot.com/2015/09/pumpkin-inspiration-giveaway.html">While I'm Waiting...</a></div>
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4.<b> Bats, bats, bats and more bats! </b>Andrea over at <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/2015/10/halloween-decor.html">Momfessionals</a> turned her home into a Halloween extravaganza and our favorite part is all the bats she hung on her walls! She made them from cardstock and just stuck them on with painters tape but the effect amazing!!! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cp9lwc_Nvo/ViPoptNZw7I/AAAAAAAAD0I/XKEnq3jT6pM/s1600/bats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cp9lwc_Nvo/ViPoptNZw7I/AAAAAAAAD0I/XKEnq3jT6pM/s640/bats.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/2015/10/halloween-decor.html">Momfessionals</a></div>
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5. <b>Ding dong</b>... And you can't have a haunted house without a spooky entrance! This is seriously the easiest craft project you will do all year. There is nothing to wait for... just do it! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nWIbXhsu-ck/ViRT39xkzjI/AAAAAAAAD0Y/vLcjJiFwzBs/s1600/DSC_6603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nWIbXhsu-ck/ViRT39xkzjI/AAAAAAAAD0Y/vLcjJiFwzBs/s640/DSC_6603.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://katy-thequeenofthekings.blogspot.com/2013/09/its-fall-yall.html">Monster Door</a></div>
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How do you like to share the scary? We'd love to hear about your favorite Halloween decor tips!</div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-59850584445829998112015-10-14T02:00:00.000-05:002015-10-14T06:40:28.289-05:00WWLW: Photoshoot PlanningIt's that time y'all. Most of you are smack dab in the middle of photo shoot planning and execution. And we are here to help you. Because we really don't want you looking/feeling like this...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SklHz3ZrKfs/Vh2xd9SYieI/AAAAAAAADzE/v_-Iz87FJUc/s1600/tumblr_inline_mka99g1wPJ1qz4rgp.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SklHz3ZrKfs/Vh2xd9SYieI/AAAAAAAADzE/v_-Iz87FJUc/s1600/tumblr_inline_mka99g1wPJ1qz4rgp.gif" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.jamspreader.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/tumblr_inline_mka99g1wPJ1qz4rgp.gif">Source</a></div>
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So, we've taken the best of our best (or so we think) to put all in one place for you today for the... </div>
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<h3>
<u>One to Two Months Before:</u></h3>
1. Decide on Clothes, Shoes and Accessories - You want a <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2013/10/card-prep-week-winning-wardrobe.html" target="_blank">winning wardrobe</a>!<br />
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Start shopping, whether you are closet shopping, on-line shopping or mall shopping - start. Find one thing to start with - maybe a scarf for Momma or a bow tie for your baby boy - and work to find the items to coordinate with it.<br />
2. Props - If you are going to use any props - <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/search/label/couches" target="_blank">cool couch</a>, <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2013/10/what-we-love-wednesday-balloons.html" target="_blank">balloons</a>, <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2013/09/joy.html" target="_blank">over sized letters</a>, <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2013/08/what-we-love-wednesday-props-tricycles.html" target="_blank">tricycles</a>, or a <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/search/label/Wagons" target="_blank">wagon</a> - start your search now.<br />
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<u>Two Weeks Before:</u></h3>
1. Location - Because you know what look/feel/theme you are going for (see above) you probably also know a few spots to take these types of photos (or you have consulted with your photographer), so now is the time to do drive byes to check on things like height of grass in a park or field, hours of operation, payment (if applicable). Also, there are some locations that must be reserved, don't forget to check.<br />
2. Hair & Makeup - I have to admit, I have never had my hair or make up done for a photo shoot, but I think I might! If you want these types of services, book them now. (I do admit, I do get my eyebrows a couple of days before photo shoots...I'm so fancy like that! ;))<br />
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<u>One Week Before:</u></h3>
1. Try on clothes - Kids grow fast and sometimes things just look lots different on...so go ahead and do a quick dress rehearsal. This is also a good time to iron. I swear, my ironing board only comes out for photo shoots!<br />
2. Touch base with your photographer - Give your photographer a call or email to reconfirm times and location.<br />
3. Talk it up! - Start talking to the kiddos (and maybe the significant other) about the photo shoot. Remind them how fun it will be to be a model and discuss expectations. We talk about listening to the photographer, doing what we ask when we ask and reminding them that if they do well, they will get a treat! Hey, <b><u><i>we are all about bribery here</i></u></b>! And treats can be candy, stickers, drive around the neighborhood with the windows down listening to <strike>Frozen</strike> T. Swift...whatever works!<br />
4. Double check your picks! - We always send texts to each other with our various wardrobe options for one final round of feedback.<br />
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<u>Day Before:</u></h3>
1. Set out clothes and accessories -I set out everything, and I do mean everything (including unmentionables...don't get caught with a black bra and white shirt! EEK!). It will make the next day go smoother and if you forgot something you will have a little while to run to Target.<br />
2. Pack<br />
a. Clothes - You may have all the clothes on your body and this step isn't necessary...but you may have a wardrobe change or a scarf or something, so go ahead pack it. {And, just maybe I made the girls ride to a photo shoot in their unmentionables because I didn't want the picture clothes wrinkled...just maybe. I can't say for sure, but maybe! ;))<br />
b. Props - Go ahead and load the car. Remember, you want tomorrow to be STRESS free. We recently did Millicent's 3 year (tear) pictures and the car was full of pumpkins.<br />
c. Goodies - Get the treats ready! Stickers, lollipops, whatever. Have it ready to reward that great behavior. Also, pack water, snacks and wipes. Hungry kids (and adults) do not take good pictures!<br />
d. Toiletries - Don't forget the hair brushes, makeup and tissues.<br />
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<h3>
<u>Day of:</u></h3>
1. Be on time! Y'all nothing stresses me out more than being late. I hate it. So I make it a point to be early to photo shoots. Photographers are busy, lighting matters and a stressed face is not pretty, so be on time.<br />
2. Be reasonable - Remember that all parties involved - kids, mom, dad, photographer, etc - are people and we all have good and bad days and we all have things we are capable of doing. (Don't expect a 2 year old to do a 3 hour shoot or take pics during nap time.)<br />
3. HAVE FUN! Seriously, have fun. Laugh. Enjoy being in the moment! HAVE FUN!<br />
4. Be prepared... which leads us to...<br />
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<u>What to bring:</u></h3>
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We have several general items that we bring to every single photo shoot:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xyXgjNjkRI0/VFmTvuHsE1I/AAAAAAAAC44/JZWgS6HxfNw/s1600/HBgeneralitems.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xyXgjNjkRI0/VFmTvuHsE1I/AAAAAAAAC44/JZWgS6HxfNw/s1600/HBgeneralitems.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Image sources: <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=jg49IliunCh2qM%253A%3Bn75z9jYf63owLM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.craftamerica.com%252Fimages%252Fproducts%252F1939-08.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.craftamerica.com%252Fcoilless_safety_pins.htm%3B326%3B355">1</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=bobby+pins&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=M-0yN8YegBBG1M%253A%3B__1tCdytlOLbuM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.photo-dictionary.com%252Fphotofiles%252Flist%252F6186%252F8147bobby_pins.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.photo-dictionary.com%252Fphrase%252F6186%252Fbobby-pins.html%3B700%3B555">2</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=lip+gloss&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=2NpuiZ089OXeiM%253A%3BMLM6k8VWb0ehMM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fbeautykink.com%252Fimage%252Fdata%252FLip-gloss-colors-7.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fbeautykink.com%252Flip-makeup-products-lippencil-lipstick-lipgloss-on-beautykink-at-affordable-price-in-lagos-nigeria-mac-zaron-houseoftara-kaygee-sleek-revlon-wetnwild%252Flipgloss%252520buy%252520in%252520lagos%252520nigeria%252520online%3B1024%3B768">3</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=lint+brush&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=QkPn-OBDLtRqLM%253A%3BsUK1KC5NNzocHM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.acleaningservicesolution.com%252Fimages%252Flint-brushfor-more-than-clothing-21721357.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.acleaningservicesolution.com%252Flint-brushfor-more-than-clothing.html%3B298%3B298">4</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=bug+spray&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=Z7Kud8ZZbPZiaM%253A%3B3BnnVlrT-tKaTM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fpics1.ds-static.com%252Fprodimg%252F27376%252F300.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.drugstore.com%252Foff-insect-repellent-spray-with-aloe-vera-unscented--7-deet%252Fqxp27376%3B300%3B300">5</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=old+navy+flip+flop&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=-1t7dQeqhrgAPM%253A%3B772W6mchiH2XCM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.families.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252Fmedia%252Fflipflops.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.families.com%252Fblog%252Fold-navy-flip-flops-2-shipped%3B260%3B345">6</a></div>
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1. <b>Safety pins</b> - you never know what's going to need fixing. Sometimes kids are at an in between size and you need to tighten up some pants, a dress, or shirt. </div>
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2. <b>Lip gloss</b> - This is pretty self-explanatory and not unusual but I like to keep it in my bag, not just for me but for the girls, too. It's the perfect bribe!</div>
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3. <b>Extra <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2013/09/what-we-love-wednesday-hair-flair.html">hair flair</a></b> (bobby pins, rosettes, headbands, clips) - You never know when the weather is going to change, fly-aways are going to occur, or kids are going to hate what you picked out. Be prepared and bring EXTRA.</div>
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4. <b>Lint brush </b>- You know, because of lint.</div>
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5. <b>Bug spray</b> - Especially in Texas. Especially in summer. Who am I kidding - ALL STINKING YEAR. #wehatemosquitoes</div>
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6. <b>Flip flops/extra shoes</b> - You won't be in every picture and you may have to trek through some interesting land to get to your space - don't ruin your good shoes, just bring extras!</div>
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We also have some items specifically for our small kiddos...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbNsRukxey4/VFk0hRBREGI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/r9NJ_NxqAj4/s1600/kidsmusthaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbNsRukxey4/VFk0hRBREGI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/r9NJ_NxqAj4/s1600/kidsmusthaves.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Image sources: <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=candy&espv=2&biw=1680&bih=882&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=pC5ZVIqnG5L4yQSGwoCwDA&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#tbm=isch&q=baby+wipes&facrc=_&imgdii=mY0f1awXlwy8QM%3A%3Bsd2K33p_ICJgXM%3BmY0f1awXlwy8QM%3A&imgrc=mY0f1awXlwy8QM%253A%3BpYBLFGVPZXLvqM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252F1000thriftythings.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2013%252F04%252Fpampers-sensitive-baby-wipes.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252F1000thriftythings.com%252F2013%252F04%252F09%252F905-thrifty-baby-get-rid-of-baby-wipes%252F%3B1836%3B2111">1</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=candy&espv=2&biw=1680&bih=882&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=pC5ZVIqnG5L4yQSGwoCwDA&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#tbm=isch&q=smarties&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=pLSE-MVh30U7aM%253A%3BFypfqPR-sR4M4M%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fcandiz.com%252Fapp%252Fuploads%252Fsites%252F4%252Fcandiz%252Fsmarties.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fcandiz.com%252Fentries%252Fsmarties-u-s%252F%3B640%3B480">2</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=candy&espv=2&biw=1680&bih=882&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=pC5ZVIqnG5L4yQSGwoCwDA&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#tbm=isch&q=dr.+seuss+books&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=9eeFbJZTIGTHvM%253A%3B6NMMgnui6KJ2UM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fimages.birthdayexpress.com%252Fmgen%252F85657.jpg%253Fzm%253D1600%252C1600%252C1%252C0%252C0%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.birthdayexpress.com%252Fc%252Ftheme-parties%252Fstorybook%252Fdr-seuss%3B1600%3B1600">3</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=spray+bottle&client=firefox-a&hs=wz6&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&channel=fflb&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=XzNZVMXnNJajyATYhYKgAg&ved=0CAgQ_AUoAQ&biw=1239&bih=890#facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=VfSIDOmBKFwdJM%253A%3BWpRAPj5qOGgdqM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fmmsforhealth.com%252Fimage%252Fcache%252Fdata%252Fspray%252520bottle%2525201-500x500.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fmmsforhealth.com%252Findex.php%253Froute%253Dproduct%252Fproduct%2526product_id%253D95%3B500%3B500">4</a> / </span></div>
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1.<b> Baby wipes </b>- It never fails that someone plays in dirt, picks up trash, or finds a piece of melted chocolate. Have baby wipes. They also serve as a great distraction when needed. Just let Tommy pull every single wipe from the bag - you can always put them back in and use them (especially on third kids). ;)</div>
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2. <b>Candy</b> (also known as bribes) - Grab some hard candy. If your photographer is good (and smart) he/she will have this covered. Make sure it's not chocolate or anything that will melt/run in their hands. We like smarties, jelly beans or fruit chews. As noted above, lip gloss is an excellent bribe for tiny girls. </div>
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3. <b>Books/toys - </b>Have something <i>anything </i>that will keep them occupied when they aren't in the picture. We've found books and toys helpful, but so is your phone or iPod. </div>
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4. <b>Happy spray </b> - Neither of the Mommas have actually tried this, but we have heard that it works. Just bring a small spray bottle full of water (and maybe even glitter) (I said <b><i>maybe</i>) </b>(#wehateglitter) and tell the kiddos it's magic happy spray. Sounds silly, but hey #whateverworks. </div>
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And soon enough, our kids will become tweens/teens and we imagine that they may have a different set of "must haves"...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O_KKPXrDeVk/VFmW6tKkW-I/AAAAAAAAC5E/0GNcEOQG9rE/s1600/HBtween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O_KKPXrDeVk/VFmW6tKkW-I/AAAAAAAAC5E/0GNcEOQG9rE/s1600/HBtween.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=frappuccino&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=BJZZVOrEMImzyQSUwoH4AQ&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=jNdzr6EOOUVmMM%253A%3B8N2ffXc9Wd9AQM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.mommieswithcents.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2013%252F05%252Ffrap.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.mommieswithcents.com%252F2013%252F05%252Fstarbucks-frappuccino-happy-hour-12-price-drinks-new-flavors.html%3B7986%3B13098">1</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=iPhone&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=Hqfykvhiuoyv2M%253A%3BqhQwMgoIbh__MM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fad009cdnb.archdaily.net%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2012%252F09%252F1347644170-step0-iphone4s-gallery-image4-459x500.png%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.archdaily.com%252Ftag%252Fiphone%252F%3B459%3B500">2</a> / <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=safety+pins&espv=2&biw=1088&bih=601&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=bY9ZVJ6zIM2yyASZ7ICACg&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg#tbm=isch&q=hair+spray&facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=vuoTPgoq_iBY3M%253A%3BBRJxKiZklJPHzM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.allure.com%252Fimages%252Fbeauty-products%252Fhair%252F2012%252Faqua-net-hair-spray.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.allure.com%252Fbeauty-products%252Fhair%252Fhair-spray%252F2012%252Faqua-net-super-hold-hair-spray%3B300%3B400">3</a></div>
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1. <b>Special drink</b> - We don't give our kids much besides water or milk and I don't anticipate Starbucks becoming a regular occurrence. It may be fun to drive through pre-photo shoot to get the older kids something before pictures begin. (or as a incentive for after the shoot). #havewementionedwelikebribes</div>
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2. <b>Phone/Music</b> - Not many of us ever travel without our phones these days, but make sure you have it especially if there are portions where kids aren't involved in pictures. This is a great way to keep them happy. </div>
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3. <b>Hairspray - </b>Yes, I did just post a picture of Aqua Net. It's the best. Says my MaMaw. Fly aways, happen. Wind happens. Wardrobe changes mess up hair. Just bring hair spray. </div>
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So there you have it. Our crazy is exposed. And if we thought a little longer, I'm sure we could come up with more items that you always need to bring - the ones we listed were no brainers!! We love this stuff y'all - and if you are stressing out... don't. Email us, comment below and let us know what's stressing you out and maybe we can help!</div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-27064541160176260522015-10-12T03:30:00.000-05:002015-10-12T03:30:02.206-05:00Merry Feature: Queen In Between<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhvkkytECqM/VhsgbjDameI/AAAAAAAADyc/MiEi20iYEgA/s1600/JanacFRONT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhvkkytECqM/VhsgbjDameI/AAAAAAAADyc/MiEi20iYEgA/s640/JanacFRONT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZKS9St8KWs/VhsgbUOzu3I/AAAAAAAADyY/jGNEeK6r3fA/s1600/JanacBACK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZKS9St8KWs/VhsgbUOzu3I/AAAAAAAADyY/jGNEeK6r3fA/s640/JanacBACK.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Who</u></b>: The Fabulous Family of our friend, Shelly</div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Location:</u> Research Park at Texas A&M University</div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Props:</u> Just their new pup, Dutch Buddy</div>
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<i>Here is some of our favorite pins featuring fur babies... </i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FYT-68HBKY8/VdqiQVJfULI/AAAAAAAADiA/qa1tbuxm56k/s1600/meowy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FYT-68HBKY8/VdqiQVJfULI/AAAAAAAADiA/qa1tbuxm56k/s640/meowy.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lovefromtheoven.com/2011/12/02/12-days-of-holiday-baking-blogger-spotlight-kevin-amanda/">1</a> / <a href="http://www.barefootblonde.com/2014/11/christmas-jammies/">2</a> / <a href="http://www.brit.co/pet-holiday-photo-ideas/?utm_campaign=pinbutton_hover">3</a> / <a href="http://guff.com/17-adorable-animals-with-holiday-spirit">4</a></div>
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<span style="font-style: normal;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Clothes:</u> With one child already on her own and another playing college baseball (</span><i>mommas note: this was last year - he has since signed with the... ASTROS. Y'all - isn't that AMAZING!?) </i>picking a date for family pictures is really tough. I really only hire a photographer every other year but having great family pictures is important to me. The day could not have been more perfect. In Texas, we only color for like 3 days and we hit the park at the PERECT time for fall colors which worked perfectly with our wardrobe. See <a href="http://queeninbetween.blogspot.com/2014/11/what-im-wearing-wednesday-christmas.html">THIS POST</a> for more info on how I pulled these outfits together.</div>
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<a href="http://queeninbetween.blogspot.com/2014/11/what-im-wearing-wednesday-christmas.html">YOU REALLY WANT TO CLICK ON HER POST!!!</a></h3>
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Also. We are LOVING plaid! LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE!! Here were some of our favorite pics from the season...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0QavfJnWsY/Vd92KsXSwII/AAAAAAAADlY/78e1LCAQkKg/s1600/Plaid2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0QavfJnWsY/Vd92KsXSwII/AAAAAAAADlY/78e1LCAQkKg/s640/Plaid2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=723061002">Dad</a> / <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/4130277335015.jsp#/">Mom</a> / <a href="http://www.target.com/p/girls-plaid-button-down-shirt/-/A-17249862#prodSlot=_1_1">Daughter</a> / <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=41893&vid=1&pid=714440012">Son</a></i></div>
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And here were cards we loved that feature plaid...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F-Q8Cf5ROmo/Vd93nQG6wTI/AAAAAAAADlk/BeeR7kCMPD0/s1600/EtsyPlaid.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F-Q8Cf5ROmo/Vd93nQG6wTI/AAAAAAAADlk/BeeR7kCMPD0/s400/EtsyPlaid.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/211325838/plaid-christmas-photo-cards-red-and-gray?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=plaid%20christmas%20card&ref=sr_gallery_9">day dreams paper</a> via Etsy</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DhcJ-JkrE3w/Vd936rdWT0I/AAAAAAAADls/c0jeitJx_YI/s1600/MintedPlaid.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DhcJ-JkrE3w/Vd936rdWT0I/AAAAAAAADls/c0jeitJx_YI/s400/MintedPlaid.JPG" width="283" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.minted.com/product/holiday-postcards/MIN-3Q6-HPC/christmas-plaid">Minted</a></i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oKGKAYfec8c/Vd95Gx9hznI/AAAAAAAADl4/Zb_luqrlYXU/s1600/TPPlaid.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oKGKAYfec8c/Vd95Gx9hznI/AAAAAAAADl4/Zb_luqrlYXU/s400/TPPlaid.JPG" width="291" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.tinyprints.com/product/66553/foil_stamped_holiday_cards_merry_outlines.html">Tiny Prints</a></div>
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<b><u>Photographer</u></b>: Sarah Burns from Butterfly Chaser Photographer (not taking new clients)<br />
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<b><u>Card design</u></b>: Nichole at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Quick-Design-Company-135604276523640/timeline/?ref=br_tf">Quick Design</a> (Cindy and I passed like thieves in the night picking up our Christmas card orders... haha!)<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">MoMments:</u> Having kids from a previous marriage has always made the Christmas card tricky since I have never felt my current last name truly represents my bigs. I also love to note everyone's age as a point of reference so typically I list names and ages for each. I also, personally, love seeing the changes in my friends' children from year to year so adding individual pics of my own kiddos is something I try to do. I love that it shows a little bit of their personality and their place in the family.<br />
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Keeping a good attitude on picture day is so important. My advice is to always expect the unexpected! Keith was delayed leaving work due to a flat tire so after shooting pictures for an hour my very patient photographer posed us and we stood waiting and with the very last bit of light from the day, Keith drove up, threw on the shirt I brought him and we got the perfect shot for our card.<br />
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<i>Ummm. Shelly. You really are a queen. We are not ashamed to admit we may have handled that situation a little differently... perhaps like this... </i><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZS7OllLuFs/VhslpaNAl3I/AAAAAAAADyw/na10fSCLb0Q/s1600/darla.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZS7OllLuFs/VhslpaNAl3I/AAAAAAAADyw/na10fSCLb0Q/s640/darla.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://media.giphy.com/media/93rI3szziYMYo/giphy.gif">Source</a></i></div>
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Sarah got the perfect shots and Nichole pulled them together with the perfect layout to showcase the pictures!<br />
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<i>We couldn't agree more! LOVE this card, your style, and your ability to focus on what matters! Thanks for sharing Shelly!</i><br />
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<b><u>Connect with Shelly: </u></b> {<a href="https://instagram.com/queeninbetween/"><span class="s2">Instagram</span></a>} {<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/queen-in-between-12779857"><span class="s2">Bloglovin</span></a>} {<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/Queeninbetween/"><span class="s2">Pinterest</span></a>} {<a href="https://www.facebook.com/queenbetween"><span class="s2">Facebook</span></a>}<br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-32057681899321486592015-10-02T08:33:00.000-05:002015-10-02T08:54:17.986-05:00Friday Favorites: Edition full of RANDOM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hi friends...it's FRIDAY and I am like</div>
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It's been a long...long...long week! But who cares NOW?!?! It's the WEEKEND!</div>
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I have a random list of <b>Friday Favorites</b>, not really related to Christmas Cards, but enjoy anyway!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X57pQN0ejqY/Vg2kEB55a_I/AAAAAAAADw0/Eboq2rVVALU/s1600/BB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X57pQN0ejqY/Vg2kEB55a_I/AAAAAAAADw0/Eboq2rVVALU/s640/BB.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is <a href="http://brenebrown.com/" style="text-align: left;">Brene Brown</a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Friends, enemies, everyone on the planet: GO READ HER WORK. She's just amazing. I first read </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daring-Greatly-Courage-Vulnerable-Transforms/dp/1592408419/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1443734330&sr=1-1&keywords=daring+greatly" style="text-align: left;">Daring Greatly</a><span style="text-align: left;"> about a year ago and was moved by her words. She discusses vulnerability (which is a hard word for me to say and frankly a hard thing for me to practice) and well...just read it. And then she wrote another book, </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rising-Strong-Bren%C3%A9-Brown/dp/0812995821/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_z" style="text-align: left;">Rising Strong</a><span style="text-align: left;">. I have listened to about half of it and WOW. Click <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability">here</a> and <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_listening_to_shame">here</a> to get a feel of her work and story telling.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">**How can I make this relate to Christmas**<br />BUY one of her books for a gift!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih8sMvavhPw/Vg2lAsHXkaI/AAAAAAAADw8/ODgQLkAHEQ8/s1600/tarte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih8sMvavhPw/Vg2lAsHXkaI/AAAAAAAADw8/ODgQLkAHEQ8/s640/tarte.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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On a much lighter and more superficial note...have any of you tried <a href="http://tartecosmetics.com/">tarte cosmetics</a>? I recently bought this <a href="http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-Amazonian-clay-finishing-powder">"smooth operator Amazonian clay finishing powder"</a> and I AM IN LOVE. Y'all it's like putting the softest silk on your face. It is suppose to help with oily skin and large pores and it does, but moreover it just feels so good!</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">**How can I make this relate to Christmas**</span></div>
<span style="text-align: left;">BUY this as a Christmas treat for yourself! Everyone deserves baby soft skin!</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WKgzWlOnL2Y/Vg2mUsrNOVI/AAAAAAAADxI/usYV5D7s1vQ/s1600/Pinterest.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WKgzWlOnL2Y/Vg2mUsrNOVI/AAAAAAAADxI/usYV5D7s1vQ/s400/Pinterest.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Oh Pinterest!</div>
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So, I have an on and off again relationship with Pinterest. Sometimes we are tight and I visit her once or even twice a day...and then months will go by and we don't even talk. But here lately, we have been in a great groove. She has helped me with a new hair do and great tips on Disney.</div>
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**How can I make this relate to Christmas**</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">AND the <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/ymerrymailbox/">MERRY MOMMAS have a Pinteres</a><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/ymerrymailbox/">t</a> account!</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Do you follow us? If not, you should! :)</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_QN6fAQJOfg/Vg6Ey9Zt-5I/AAAAAAAADxY/vWTmL3UpbMQ/s1600/forever21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_QN6fAQJOfg/Vg6Ey9Zt-5I/AAAAAAAADxY/vWTmL3UpbMQ/s400/forever21.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And last but not least - <a href="http://www.forever21.com/">FOREVER 21</a>. I know, kind of shocking it's a fave...but this store is growing on me. I don't buy lots of things for myself there, but they do have a pretty cute selection of clothes for my gals. And most of it is pretty inexpensive.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4lQ4p5sEqA/Vg6E0EO8OdI/AAAAAAAADxg/TteOUcJyqy4/s1600/21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4lQ4p5sEqA/Vg6E0EO8OdI/AAAAAAAADxg/TteOUcJyqy4/s400/21.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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Remember <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/09/help.html">this post</a>?</div>
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Here's the <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=girls&Category=girls_sweaters&ProductID=2000172312&VariantID=">sweater</a> most of you think Caroline should wear and it was only $15.90!</div>
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**How can I make this relate to Christmas**</div>
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Buy this <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=girls&Category=girls_sweaters&ProductID=2000165008&VariantID=">sweater</a> for a sweet gal in your life<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UDAmWCRs-WM/Vg6G4MDWmDI/AAAAAAAADxs/vRZjtGjetZM/s1600/sweater.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UDAmWCRs-WM/Vg6G4MDWmDI/AAAAAAAADxs/vRZjtGjetZM/s400/sweater.JPG" width="253" /></a></div>
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And buy this <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=boys&Category=boys-sweaters&ProductID=2000156399&VariantID=011">Star Wars shirt</a> for a handsome dude in your life!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ks6tu5HIUS8/Vg6HGgMb66I/AAAAAAAADx0/Q5NyPg4iv2M/s1600/SW.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ks6tu5HIUS8/Vg6HGgMb66I/AAAAAAAADx0/Q5NyPg4iv2M/s400/SW.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">HAPPY FRIDAY FRIENDS!</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXRzGOqF87c/Vg2htWw7aWI/AAAAAAAADwo/u4vZvZiB4-8/s1600/FridayFavorites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXRzGOqF87c/Vg2htWw7aWI/AAAAAAAADwo/u4vZvZiB4-8/s1600/FridayFavorites.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Little Bit of Everything Blog</a> - <a href="https://graceandloveblog.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Grace and Love Blog</a> - <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/" target="_blank">Momfessionals</a></span></div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-52909564113751326232015-09-30T05:00:00.000-05:002015-09-30T05:00:03.157-05:00WWLW & WWDLW: OctoberY'all, it is almost OCTOBER. I know this isn't a news flash to any of you...but man, I have a LOVE and a DON'T LOVE relationship with this month...and here's why! (And this is Merry Momma Cindy.)<br />
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<b>DON'T LOVE - Pumpkin Spice Latte.</b> I can't even stand the smell of pumpkin spice. At. All. And who wants to drink a pumpkin? NOT ME. YUCK! {Yes, I realize I may loose my middle class, middle age mom card on this one, but I. Just. Can't. Even.}<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1qLZdXe6Yiw/Vgrx9HdZSuI/AAAAAAAADvA/jxKFIstHz7c/s1600/PSL.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1qLZdXe6Yiw/Vgrx9HdZSuI/AAAAAAAADvA/jxKFIstHz7c/s640/PSL.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>LOVE - Pumpkins and kids in pumpkin patches!</b> You have to will yourself to be sad around pumpkins and kids in a pumpkin patch. They remind me of small town America. With fall festivals and pumpkin bowling and candy and fun. I love pumpkins!<br />
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<b>LOVE FOOTBALL!</b> Who doesn't love college football...and man, THOSE AGGIES!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LXIBcnkrhvc/Vgr4HNw4tTI/AAAAAAAADvY/rFMJr21i6gk/s1600/Miles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LXIBcnkrhvc/Vgr4HNw4tTI/AAAAAAAADvY/rFMJr21i6gk/s640/Miles.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Myles Garrett <3 </div>
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<b>DON'T LOVE WORKING ON FOOTBALL SATURDAY </b>- I have a great job and it super fun, but it does require me to work some Saturdays...and well:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3wq4CJXaZ4/Vgr5Lhilf5I/AAAAAAAADvs/pJRLQomGjBk/s1600/saturday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3wq4CJXaZ4/Vgr5Lhilf5I/AAAAAAAADvs/pJRLQomGjBk/s640/saturday.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>LOVE CELEBRATING THIS GAL!</b> Millie's birthday is mid October and we have had such fun celebrating her over the past 4 years.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mFzNJAv95o0/VgtBBlS2ydI/AAAAAAAADv8/VCrdzDCZXkY/s1600/MCMcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mFzNJAv95o0/VgtBBlS2ydI/AAAAAAAADv8/VCrdzDCZXkY/s640/MCMcat.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>DON'T LOVE that we have no more babies!</b> While I love love love the stage we are currently in, I did tear up LOTS this evening as Millicent walked out of the playroom holding a pad of paper and dressed in a bakers outfit asking me what I wanted to eat and then wrote real letters on the pad. No more babies here!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WYYsucYOLrA/VgtCE3qtDmI/AAAAAAAADwE/PPruK4kQ52g/s1600/MCMpumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WYYsucYOLrA/VgtCE3qtDmI/AAAAAAAADwE/PPruK4kQ52g/s640/MCMpumpkin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>LOVE - Planning.</b> I don't think it is a secret that I love to plan...everything! For goodness sakes, we did a post on how we organize our <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2013/09/what-we-love-wednesday-christmas.html">Christmas Shopping.</a><br />
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<b>DON'T LOVE - PLANNING COUNTDOWN THINGS.</b> I don't love <a href="http://www.yourchristmascountdown.com/">those things</a> at all...they make me nervous and anxious. I'm not sure why...but they do...but HEY, THEY ARE A GOOD REMINDER TO GET YOUR CHRISTMAS CARD READY! (<a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/p/submissions_3.html">And we can't wait for your submissions!</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aaYXFYYXqzA/VgtHLCzOpNI/AAAAAAAADwU/Ul7sxGMGO2w/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aaYXFYYXqzA/VgtHLCzOpNI/AAAAAAAADwU/Ul7sxGMGO2w/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy October y'all!<br />
MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-77060462453658763762015-09-29T05:00:00.000-05:002015-09-29T05:00:03.900-05:00Help!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Y'all. This post is going to be a little different than our norm...because I NEED YOUR HELP!<br />
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Seriously, I need opinions, suggestions, links, lots of stuff. And I know that you all LOVE to give opinions! ;)<br />
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Please help a Merry Momma out.<br />
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Okay, so here's the deal...the Munson fam has our Christmas card photo shoot in two short weeks.<br />
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AND I HAVEN'T finalized our clothing!<br />
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EKKK!<br />
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I know, I know...I am basically not following my own advice, but...hey, you get a sneak peak at our 2015 card!<br />
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I'm not going to give away the entire card, but we are going with a VERY outdoorsy feel.</div>
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Think plaids, hiking, nature, </div>
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Months ago I bought the outfits below:</div>
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<img border="0" height="296" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdncAnU6PDY/Vgmhvba5t2I/AAAAAAAADt4/rsJkyHVUYsQ/s640/Pinks.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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I sent the pictures to our photographer and included the text, "I'm just not feeling this...at all!" I couldn't put my finger on it, but it wasn't what I had in mind. I liked the pink and the hubby - Josh - has NO problems wearing pink (he has 3 daughters and coaches xc and track to about 80 young ladies - he's got the pink thing down), but it just wasn't right. Photographer agreed. I think I was "trying too hard" or something. I put the dress and shirt in the closet for future wear (just not our family photo shoot).<br />
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And then about 4 weeks ago I found this dress at Target. I love it! Navy, red and forest green PLAID (so outdoors and in style), in a cute DRESS. I was sold. It was only available in toddler size, so I snatched that $14.99 dress up in a 4T and declared it to be my starting point for our pictures. The boots are from Target as well, and yes, they do have a bit of gold sheen to them. I haven't decided if I want Millicent (youngest Munson gal - will be age 3 years and 360 days at the time of pics) to wear tights or not, which leads us to Q1:<br />
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<b>Question 1 - What, if anything, should Millicent wear on her legs?</b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TKIB95H8pEI/Vgmhxdf7wrI/AAAAAAAADuA/rtUdz6u2sQA/s1600/asfder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TKIB95H8pEI/Vgmhxdf7wrI/AAAAAAAADuA/rtUdz6u2sQA/s640/asfder.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's a close up of the plaid:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3nOOqeZQ0Rg/Vgmhx_fenCI/AAAAAAAADuI/Hu7YgJ5OqXo/s1600/IMG_9175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3nOOqeZQ0Rg/Vgmhx_fenCI/AAAAAAAADuI/Hu7YgJ5OqXo/s640/IMG_9175.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Josh's outfit is almost complete as well. He is wearing a navy Columbia shirt, jeans and his hiking boots. He has a thermal/waffle grey undershirt, but I wonder if it will not blend well with the brown/cream in the plaid, so Q2:<br />
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<b>Question 2 - Should I get Josh a cream undershirt?</b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olUKZoawu4U/Vgmhy_F_idI/AAAAAAAADuQ/G3-q36bK0NI/s1600/IMG_9176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olUKZoawu4U/Vgmhy_F_idI/AAAAAAAADuQ/G3-q36bK0NI/s640/IMG_9176.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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And now we are to the TOUGH questions...<br />
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WHAT DO I WEAR?<br />
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I am pretty certain I want to wear this oversized boyfriend type cream cardi from Forever 21. It is pretty cute on, it makes you feel kind of like you are wearing a blanket.<br />
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I can't decide what to wear with it...I think some cute jeggings would be good, but I could pull in the red color with the red pants. But the red pants are pants and do people wear pants outdoors? No, not really, they wear jeans. So if I wear the jeans, do I pull in red, navy or forest green. (I wore an army green vest/jacket in <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2014/12/good-tidings.html">last years pic</a>, so I am a tad hesitant to wear any green this year.)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dF4wTa9bH0I/Vgmh06q5CtI/AAAAAAAADuY/0J7DFOxdQoQ/s1600/Mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dF4wTa9bH0I/Vgmh06q5CtI/AAAAAAAADuY/0J7DFOxdQoQ/s640/Mom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here's some things I pulled from my closet...red shirt and jeggings, denim shirt and red pants, navy shirt and jeggings.<br />
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Questions...I have lots of them!<br />
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<b>Question 3 - What should I wear on the bottom?</b><br />
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<b>Question 4 - What shirt do I wear?</b><br />
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<b>Question 5 - Shoes...so I put those cute booties out for the pics, but I am not 100% sure that's the look I want. What shoes? (And know that I don't mind buying new things, BUT I do have to keep my spending in our budget. {womp womp to being an adult! #adultingishard #andnotalwaysfun})</b><br />
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Next up -- Caroline! She's 7 and truly is our most outdoorsy sporty girl. I have decided she is wearing jeans and some sort of green on top. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CpEBxUko9TU/Vgmh4IyjiqI/AAAAAAAADug/HUwPeUCi1lA/s1600/Daughter1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CpEBxUko9TU/Vgmh4IyjiqI/AAAAAAAADug/HUwPeUCi1lA/s640/Daughter1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Sleeveless, thermal/waffle, fringe sweater thing...oh the thoughts running through my head? The sleeveless is cute, but if we all have on long sleeves, do it look silly? The thermal is cute and so "in the theme", but it doesn't have layers or texture or anything that pops out at you. I like the fringe, but will need a tighter fitting undershirt. And the green is a slightly bringhter/lighter shade of green. How could I layer options 1 and 2. I think I like the idea of her having on lighter colored jeans, but...will they be too light and would dark look better, especially with the fringe shirt. {Aren't you glad you aren't in my head? And aren't you glad you aren't Katy or our photographer and you don't have to see the 2,784,921 texts about all this stuff! ;)}<br />
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<b>Question 6 - What should Caroline wear?</b><br />
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Last but not least, our darling Annaliese.<br />
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I wanted Annaliese to pull in the red color, so I came up with these options.<br />
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I really like the denim jacket and the dress, but...(you knew that was coming, right?!?!) Annaliese wore a dress in last year's pic and I do denim A LOT. I like it, but don't know that it should be in every picture we take. Option 2 is the front runner for me. The vest is fuzzy and adds lots of texture to a pic. Option 3 is not really in the running, but I had the shirt so I threw it in there. Maybe one of you can convince me to use it. Option 4 is okay, but again with the sleeveless.</div>
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<b>Question 7 - What should Annaliese wear?</b></div>
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Additionally, I have these 2 cardis and this dress available. The girls could also wear cowboy boots, all three have a pair. #werefromtexasyall</div>
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And, we haven't even started talking about <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2013/09/what-we-love-wednesday-hair-flair.html">HAIR FLAIR</a>! Any ideas on that?!?!<br />
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<b>Question 8 - Hair? How? What flair, if any?</b><br />
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I can't wait to hear from all of you! Comment below! <br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-59566651147692964342015-09-25T01:00:00.000-05:002015-09-25T01:00:10.202-05:00Friday Favorites: JJD Returns <i>We are so happy that Becca is back to share some of her favorite card designs! If you see something you like make sure to check out her webpage to start designing your card for this season!</i><br />
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Hi there, this is Becca from <a href="http://jumpingjaxdesigns.com/" target="_blank">Jumping Jax Designs</a>! Today I want to share with you some of my very favorite holiday card designs, and what makes them really stand out to me!<br />
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<b><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AdMHzrqr3RM/Vft8wYSmXRI/AAAAAAAAT54/G4KYrkNvewk/s640/Card%2BFavorites.png" width="640" /></b><br />
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Aside from the fact that these faces are some of my favorite kiddos and families (seriously, how blessed am I to make cards for my gorgeous friends + their families?!), these cards are my very favorites. And here's why:<br />
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<img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1Cld0VTD88/VfuAiSJc0nI/AAAAAAAAT6E/VeVVcqxlJ7c/s640/Giacalone%2BChristmas1.png" width="456" /></div>
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This one is a favorite because of the way the colors of the card tie in perfectly with the colors of their outfits. The earthy tones go so well with the woodsy picture setting. This is the beauty of having a custom card designed; it is made JUST for you, and for your beautiful family photo!<br />
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I do realize that this gorgeous family totally <i>makes</i> this card, but I also love love love me some black, white and gold. (So much so that I'm going to have an office in those colors very soon!) The simplistic design allows the colors of the photo to pop and gives it a modern feel, while still bringing cheer!</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Er8Q99wmA8I/VfuApRVyGbI/AAAAAAAAT6U/kJvITWL3xFs/s640/Farmhouse%2BChic%2Bfor%2BShannon.png" width="456" /></div>
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Is anyone else head-over-heels in love with farmhouse style lately? This card reminds me of shiplap. I just love the natural accents, and the fact that it is very muted colors allows the photo to stay the focus, so that is what the eye is drawn to! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WRXjYjVxEsc/VfuAvyF00TI/AAAAAAAAT6c/Jl44g3GjQPM/s1600/Colorful%2BConfetti%2Bfor%2BMichelle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WRXjYjVxEsc/VfuAvyF00TI/AAAAAAAAT6c/Jl44g3GjQPM/s640/Colorful%2BConfetti%2Bfor%2BMichelle.png" width="456" /></a></div>
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This one is just too cute because of the picture. Kids in Christmas jammies is swoon-worthy enough, but then make it MATCHING Christmas jammies? In vibrant colors? Yes please. I matched the card to the jammies (again, perks of having a card customized for you!) so it just feels very cohesive and happy.<br />
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<b>Truthfully, I really love all of the Christmas cards that leave my hands, so choosing favorites was tricky! Be sure to read all of the Merry Momma's posts here so that you too can absolutely love your card design!</b></div>
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Linking up with <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/"><span class="s2">Andrea</span></a>, <a href="http://www.tabanderika.blogspot.com/"><span class="s2">Erika</span></a>, and <a href="https://graceandloveblog.wordpress.com/"><span class="s2">Narci</span></a><br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-57106331221146298742015-09-21T06:00:00.000-05:002015-09-21T08:49:13.716-05:00A Year in Review<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 30.4px;"><i>Happy Monday y'all! We've gotten so many requests about a year in review card so we are <b><u>thrilled</u></b> to be sharing today's card with you! We actually did some InstaStalking and discovered Kristin's card with #ChristmasCardCarousel and asked if she would be willing to share! She sent it to us THAT SAME DAY. Kristin - we heart you. And we know our readers will too...</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HeDbxZG1Zk8/Vf8n3GrS36I/AAAAAAAADso/IZ0kffpOQrc/s1600/Fields_Christmas_Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HeDbxZG1Zk8/Vf8n3GrS36I/AAAAAAAADso/IZ0kffpOQrc/s640/Fields_Christmas_Front.jpg" width="462" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZffcP-HRw1U/Vf8n1wx5ghI/AAAAAAAADsg/rU74-enDkEc/s1600/Fields_Christmas_Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZffcP-HRw1U/Vf8n1wx5ghI/AAAAAAAADsg/rU74-enDkEc/s640/Fields_Christmas_Back.jpg" width="462" /></a></div>
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<b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Who</u>: </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">Josh, Kristin, Ella (9) and Sophie (5) Fields</span></div>
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<b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Location</u>: </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">a tiny town just outside of Birmingham, AL</span></div>
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<b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Props</u>: </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">The only prop we used this year was LOCATION!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><b><u>Clothes</u>: </b>Not sure this one is applicable, given the nature of our card!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"></span><i>WE LOVE THIS CARD! For so many reasons but mostly because they celebrated the EVERY day. Not just one - which some of you may think totally contradicts our normal blog posts, but y'all - how awesome is this card??!! </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span><b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Comments</u>: </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">When we took photographs for last year's cards on our family vacation, I immediately fell in love with them, BUT I couldn't get over the fear that we were missing something. We had done so many fun things in 2014 and traveled to some equally fun places and I was having a really hard time not sharing them all! At the last minute, I scrapped my standard photo card in favor of something a little quirky. We added a photo from every month, along with some fun (and funny) facts about our year - infographic style!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"></span><i>We are so glad you did! This card is adorable and really shares your entire year with us! A perfect way for everyone to keep up with what you and your family have been up to! Here are some other fun examples we found on the interwebs...</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-52OKulOC1QQ/Vf9KgffB8cI/AAAAAAAADtM/9fEXDtpT5EI/s1600/YearinReview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-52OKulOC1QQ/Vf9KgffB8cI/AAAAAAAADtM/9fEXDtpT5EI/s640/YearinReview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="https://www.tinyprints.com/product/28229/flat_holiday_photo_cards_a_retrospective.html">TIny Prints</a>/Unknown/<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/229477457/year-in-review-template?ref=unav_listing-other">These Little Wonders</a>/<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/233202086926350895/">Etsy</a></i></div>
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<b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Designer:</u> </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">I designed these cards myself! I'm a freelance graphic designer and holiday cards are one my favorite ways to collaborate with clients. Check out her recent work <a href="http://www.tazandbelly.com/p/recent-work.html">here</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><b><u>Photographer</u>: </b> Our "official holiday photo" (in December's square) was taken by </span><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><a href="http://www.sparkandarrow.com/kamin/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Kamin Williams</a> of <a href="http://www.sparkandarrow.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Spark & Arrow</a></span></div>
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<b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Favorite Thing:</u> </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">Definitely the infographic. While we shared some pretty tame facts on the back (like travel destinations and the ages of our girls), I really loved the tongue-in-cheek moments (like how many cats we managed to kill) even more!</span></div>
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We are impressed with how much your DP consumption went down. Here are some other funny ideas to include on your infographic this year. We can relate to the loss of binkies, number of diapers changed but we aren't quite sure how someone only consumed 15 pizzas in a year! :)</div>
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(And spoiler alert: One of the Merry Mommas may actually trade in a letter for an infographic.) (Extra spoiler alert: Who are we kidding - we will do both!)<br />
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<b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Blog</u>: </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><a href="http://www.tazandbelly.com/">Taz and Belly</a></span></div>
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<b style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;"><u>Extras</u>: </b><span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">Kristin is talking all about her <a href="http://www.tazandbelly.com/2015/09/christmas-in-september.html">Christmas in September</a> today so be sure to check out her post. She is also debuted a BEAUTIFUL and amazing new concept and design of combining bible journaling with Christmas cards and the results are breath taking. In her words:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Josefin Sans'; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 24.64px; text-align: justify;"><i>These Mixed-Media Holiday Cards incorporate a painterly, hand-lettered Bible page on the front and can include your choice of photograph(s) and text on the back OR can be printed as postcards with space for a hand-written note. </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">I can't really do them justice, so make sure to check out her post about it <a href="http://www.tazandbelly.com/2015/09/where-bible-journaling-holiday-cards.html">here</a> so you can see an example. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">And because we know you'll adore her as much as we do, here's all the ways you can follow along with Kristin and Taz + Belly: </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.tazandbelly.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Blog</a> | <a href="http://www.instagram.com/tazandbelly" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tazandbellyblog" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/tazandbelly" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><wbr></wbr>Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/tazandbelly/boards" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/tazandbelly" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Etsy</a></div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-62589668938986390212015-09-18T08:34:00.003-05:002015-09-18T08:34:49.408-05:00Card Designers: Friday Favorites<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nichole here. Today we're talking about trends. Honestly, the card should reflect you and your family. I hesitate to steer you in a direction. <b>Pick something you love. </b>There are no right or wrong cards...here are my favorite trends this season!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hxSTLFVkPhw/VfX_JaRjE4I/AAAAAAAADrI/PyPYINq6CsU/s1600/QDCCollagePage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hxSTLFVkPhw/VfX_JaRjE4I/AAAAAAAADrI/PyPYINq6CsU/s640/QDCCollagePage3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Love a certain color? Focus on a card with just that color's elements. I love how this family chose a pop of read - makes it easy for a card designer to work that into the design. </span></li>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EUBUp5rsoWA/VfYYmvNwKII/AAAAAAAADrY/ren6u-4f_94/s1600/8f93a85b86ae178bb567cf97f4b9e8bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EUBUp5rsoWA/VfYYmvNwKII/AAAAAAAADrY/ren6u-4f_94/s640/8f93a85b86ae178bb567cf97f4b9e8bd.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://ninaceciliacreativespark.com/2013/03/dv-family-fall-mini-session-des-moines-ia/">Nina Cecilia</a></div>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Love clean and simple? Look for the focus to be the picture and keep the font clean and simple. Here's one of my designs that does just that. </span></li>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l0gcibm-sBU/VfYYnUE5AUI/AAAAAAAADr0/0NYnj5lX1Eo/s1600/Scott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l0gcibm-sBU/VfYYnUE5AUI/AAAAAAAADr0/0NYnj5lX1Eo/s1600/Scott.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/jmlphoto" style="color: #ab1a15; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.4px;">JML Photography</a></div>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Love collages? Mix it up with various sizes and even take it up a notch by mixing up B&W and color photos. Here's a great example from 2013. </span></li>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0j23xQcT_Yg/VfYYm4oWV2I/AAAAAAAADro/7lu2bzOIfvc/s1600/Cerny2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0j23xQcT_Yg/VfYYm4oWV2I/AAAAAAAADro/7lu2bzOIfvc/s640/Cerny2013.jpg" width="444" /></a></div>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Had a stellar year with lots of life events? Add some text next to the pictures or use a multi sided card to show off your events </span></li>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P7LQV7MZ67M/VfwSeBgumMI/AAAAAAAADsM/0MU0B4CswBI/s1600/YearinReview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P7LQV7MZ67M/VfwSeBgumMI/AAAAAAAADsM/0MU0B4CswBI/s640/YearinReview.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have friends all over the globe? Send a digital card (which can also be an inexpensive way to have a custom design)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It has truly been a pleasure being with you this week. I hope for those of you on the fence about whether or not to partake in the card business, this has dispelled some myths, or pushed you to one side or the other. Having a card that is made just for you is truly a keepsake. A tiny gift you give to friends, families or colleagues. I keep everyone of the cards I make or get in the mail. A great friend of mine gave me a tip to put my cards on binder rings, and I set them out every Christmas on my coffee table for guests to see. It's so much fun to see how families and friends have changed over the years. In this day and age, it's still nice to get something in the mail!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And to help you get in the spirit, I am offering a <b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>$50 credit on </b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Just enter by letting me know what your favorite card design is below! Winner revealed on MONDAY!</span><br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-37064921652983133872015-09-16T07:00:00.000-05:002015-09-16T07:00:05.248-05:00Designer Showcase: Email Etiquette<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Nichole here. Today we are going to be covering the topic of email etiquette. Sounds pretty simple right? The sad truth is, this is something that must be discussed. In this day and age, where everything happens in an instant and we don't like to be kept waiting, this is a very important step in the card design process. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dbeV17bXRYA/VfX-GQtqPPI/AAAAAAAADq8/j0Z-JQcsXCQ/s1600/QDCCollagePage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dbeV17bXRYA/VfX-GQtqPPI/AAAAAAAADq8/j0Z-JQcsXCQ/s640/QDCCollagePage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Y'all, I know you're excited, but most designers do not have a turn around of a few hours. Please set realistic expectations for them - if you need a faster turn around time, then make sure to let the designer know in the initial email. We understand, things happen - you need a last minute card or invite and sometimes you may even be waiting on the photographer to send you pictures. Set the expectation up front. In the last post I discussed questions to ask the designer before you pull the trigger on your card design. The designer should be able to provide a turnaround time. Please remember that these are busy times. We want you to be happy. <b>We want to be happy.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">That includes letting us know that you aren't happy with the initial design - let us know. Be clear and communicate with us. We can't read your mind about how much you do or don't love the design, so let us know. We really do want you to be happy - our business depends on you! Let us know because we want to work with you again and again and we want you to to be excited to "share the merry" as the Mommas say!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, should you find yourself past the turnaround date, please ask. Sometimes technology goofs and gets that email lost in space, and sometimes the designer just forgot to press send. YIKES! True Story! Not my finest moment....</span></div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-92015258948096002862015-09-14T07:00:00.000-05:002015-09-14T07:00:05.449-05:00Designer Showcase: Quick Designs<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>We are thrilled to continue our designer showcase series. This week you will be hearing from Nichole of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Quick-Design-Company-135604276523640/timeline/">Quick Design Company</a>. She is local to CS and has outfitted the Merry Mommas with adorable invitations and amazing Christmas cards on more than one occasion. We know you will love her as much as we do! </i></div>
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Are you frazzled yet? Do you hear the tick tocks getting
louder and louder with each passing day, knowing that you haven’t even thought
about Christmas card or gasp..the dreaded Christmas picture?? You’re just
getting into the groove as school begins, much less have time to figure out
something that is months away. Don’t worry. I’m right there with you! Just when
I get myself settled, I have already received the first “ask” of the Christmas
card season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My name is Nichole
and I am the<s> procrastinator</s><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>ahem, Owner, of Quick Design Company. What started out as a means to
satisfying a need to have a unique Christmas card, has resulted in a company
that has been with families over the years celebrating birthdays,
anniversaries, births, holidays… you name it, we’ve been there! I’ve been
entrusted with some pretty cool milestones and I’m pretty blessed with this
little side business for me and my girls.</div>
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Back to why I am here….The Merry Mommas have asked me to
guest post this week about a few things from a Designer’s perspective. Today we
will talk about the initial meetings with a Designer. Now, I know if you are
like me, you have every intention of starting early and taking time to get the
look that’s in your head, but who are we kidding…life just gets in the way. Some
of you may go the BIG NAME CARD COMPANY for time’s sake, and I want you to know
that that is ok. Just the sheer fact that you get cards out is awesome and I
will tell you mean just as much to me when I get them in the mail. As a working
mom, <b><u>I get it!</u></b></div>
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Should you find
time is on your hands and you have pictures ready to go, this is where I come
in. Designing a card is simple business. After all you made it through
Christmas pictures! It is not scary and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">should</i>
be a pretty pleasant experience. (I have had some doozies!!) </div>
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So you’ve contacted your designer and they are available to
make your card. Here are my tips when I'm working with clients...</div>
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<ol>
<li><b>Have an iota of what you want</b>... it’s multiple pictures,
a single picture, folded, flat, a theme, color, shape, whatever. </li>
<li><b>Take the time to look at layouts or
fonts.</b> Many of my clients have a card they reference, and that helps me see the
direction they want to go. </li>
<li><b>Be
prepared.</b> The hardest clients to design for are those who give creative
freedom. Usually I ask a series of questions so that my work is not done in
vain. I am all about being efficient with my time. It makes for a much happier
designer! Over the years I have
learned to read between the lines. Designers are here to pull that card you
have in your head and put it on paper. Think of us as a Christmas Card Savants!!</li>
<li><b>Have your pictures ready. </b>Memory stick or email is great.
Try not to send links of 100s of your Christmas pics. While I LOVE the
privilege of seeing the pics before the world does, it makes it difficult on my
computer to have soo much memory taken up. </li>
<li><b>Try not to send pictures taken from
a phone.</b> It makes for a challenge to have a beautiful card and a really fuzzy,
grainy pic. I try my best, but sometimes it just ain’t gonna cut it. Not even
the wonders of Photoshop can fix those. If you are gonna spend the money to
have a great card, have a great picture to go with it. Ok. Off the soapbox.</li>
<li><b>Ask questions.</b> There are no stupid questions. Ask questions!
The more informed you are, the much more pleasant the experience will be for
the both of you. The designer should give you an estimate of proof turn around
(remember, as we get closer to the holidays, those numbers will increase) </li>
<li><b>Things to think about:</b> designers should be able to offer advice based on pictures as
to paper choices, sizing differences, layouts, etc.. </li>
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Once you feel ok with the
process, I take over. <b>Take a deep breath</b>, relax (as best as you can) and know
that you are getting a very special card, hopefully one that reflects you and
your family. Now that the designer has everything they need, they can begin on
your very special creati<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>on…now to be patient and wait…..</div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-55984181291668619392015-09-10T05:00:00.000-05:002015-09-10T09:09:59.981-05:00Designer Showcase - JJD: Part 2Wasn't Becca's advice great in her <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/09/designer-showcase-jumping-jax-designs.html">first post</a>! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts from a designer's perspective. Here's some more great advice!<br />
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Becca here again, from <a href="http://jumpingjaxdesigns.com/" target="_blank">Jumping Jax Designs</a>! Today I'd like to talk about layouts, text and colors for your Christmas card!<br />
<img border="0" height="456" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dcZxIV7Pc1U/VfBI9qAN3eI/AAAAAAAAT1I/oSVIiwc7WnU/s640/Holiday%2BCard%2BPost2.png" width="640" /><br />
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The perfect card will put the focus on your photos while still bringing some holiday cheer to the recipient. The layout and colors will dictate the mood of the card, so you'll want to get it just right!<br />
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1.) <b>Pick a color scheme</b><br />
This sounds common sense, but what many people don't think about is that
the colors of your outfits in the photos can easily clash with the
colors in the card you choose.<b> </b><br />
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For example, you wouldn't want to go with a pink-related color scheme and then have a red Christmas card, or you risk looking like you're celebrating Valentine's Day. <br />
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Too many colors between the outfits and the card can be overwhelming and detract from the photos.<b><br /></b><br />
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Try opting for neutrals in your outfit choices with one main color pop for accents and accessories, and then carry that color through in the card design.</div>
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And remember, if you've fallen in love with a certain card design <i>before</i> you take family photos, base your outfits around the card colors and keep the eye drawn to the people rather than the outfits and the card design.<br />
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2.) <b>Arrange photos with one being the focus</b><br />
As we discussed in the <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/09/designer-showcase-jumping-jax-designs.html" target="_blank">last post</a>, having a single photo on the front of the card can make a big impact and provide a simple and streamlined look for your card. However, even if you do put more than one photo on the front, try making one photo the focus by choosing a card design with one photo larger or centered on the card:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6y84eU9OOVg/VfBEb7LDJwI/AAAAAAAAT08/QSpqyHOsCVE/s1600/Christmas%2Bfor%2BRabels.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6y84eU9OOVg/VfBEb7LDJwI/AAAAAAAAT08/QSpqyHOsCVE/s640/Christmas%2Bfor%2BRabels.png" width="456" /></a></div>
<b> </b><br />
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3.) <b>Don't overcrowd the card with text</b><br />
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Along with a single photo on the front, part of having a standout card is having meaningful text. Limiting your text can make the words you <i>do</i> have make more of an impact. Keep long sentences and phrases on the back of the card or on your holiday letter, rather than on the front of the card.<br />
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And like the color choice and photo layout, having succinct text will also keep people's eye drawn to what matters most; your beautiful photo(s).</div>
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<b><img border="0" height="456" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nNudFhMuYIE/VfBATHrDamI/AAAAAAAAT0M/6yFbBvlOFSs/s640/Simply%2BBright.png" width="640" /> </b></div>
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<b> Join us next time as I discuss some of my favorite holiday cards and why I love them!</b></div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-33937332932319533752015-09-08T05:00:00.000-05:002015-09-08T05:00:01.673-05:00Designer Showcase - Jumping Jax DesignsHi friends...we have a TREAT for you over the next couple of weeks! Our two favorite card designers - Jumping Jax Designs and Quick Designs - are guest posting. They are sharing their thoughts on colors, fonts, layout and much more. Enjoy lots of great insight from Becca this week! <br />
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<br />
Hi mommas! My name is Becca and I'm the founder of a little business called <a href="http://jumpingjaxdesigns.com/">Jumping Jax Designs</a>, where one of our favorite things to create is...you guessed it: <a href="http://jumpingjaxdesigns.com/product-category/holiday-cards/">Christmas cards</a>! <br />
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Cards are truly where my heart is, since that is the item that started this business up just over 6 years ago! I love making logos and websites and even invitations and birth announcements, but putting on some Christmas music and whipping up some <a href="http://jumpingjaxdesigns.com/product-category/holiday-cards/">Christmas card designs</a> is really just my favorite.<br />
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<img border="0" height="456" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lpEznSxns2M/Ve4Wd0n8nRI/AAAAAAAATyg/A8FeehPf-xU/s640/Holiday%2BCard%2BPost1.png" width="640" /><br />
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The Merry Mommas asked me to come guest post and of course I agreed, this little corner of the web is so much fun! So, today we'll be talking about setting realistic expectations for your card design; what you should know about your card design? <br />
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There are a few things to know before you get started:<br />
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1.) <b>How many photos do you (REALLY) want to use? </b><br />
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I get clients all the time who send me a gorgeously simple card design that uses <b>one</b> photo, and they want me to recreate it using <b>six</b> of their favorites from their family photo session. While the designer in me is asking you (begging you) to PICK ONE PHOTO, as a momma I know that that's not always easy to do, especially if your photographer rocks your socks off with some amazing shots of each family member. <br />
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To keep your card simple, try choosing a favorite photo of your family for the front of the card. Make sure it is one that shows every family member clearly! If you'd really like to use some of your other favorites from the shoot, ask your designer if she can place them on the back of the card for you. While you'll pay more for a double sided design, this will allow you to share other photos with your loved ones and still keep the minimalistic feel that you fell in love with.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WLhyuUBxxIM/Ve4cg4DCCSI/AAAAAAAATzY/Z_-a_7-w2C4/s1600/Front%2BBack.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WLhyuUBxxIM/Ve4cg4DCCSI/AAAAAAAATzY/Z_-a_7-w2C4/s640/Front%2BBack.png" width="640" /></a><br />
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2.)<b> You get what you pay for</b><br />
Sure, your sister's roommate has Photoshop and can whip you up a quick card to print on Vistaprint, but the saying is true; you get what you pay for. If you're not willing to pay a designer to create and print your cards, chances are that the result will not be a polished and beautiful card. Sorry, but that's the truth! Designers have at their disposal thousands of gorgeous fonts and graphics that will make your card come together nicely, and some can even hand-letter sayings that will make your card truly one-of-a-kind! Not to mention that the paper and cut quality will be much better if you have a custom designer do the cards for you!<br />
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<img border="0" height="596" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0BTpovicZtA/Ve4bYN3R0FI/AAAAAAAATzM/5rgQrcTRdmA/s640/Christmas%2BCard%2BAdvert.png" width="640" /><br />
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And likewise, if you opt to throw your family photos into the pre-made card designs at Walmart or Walgreens, you will probably not wind up with the most beautiful or custom final product. When you have a designer customize a card for you, she can pull colors from the outfits to use in the card so that it all ties together nicely, and can make your text stand out from the photo, which a machine cannot/will not do. <b><br /></b><br />
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3.) <b>Extras add up! </b><br />
It's a good idea to go into the process knowing what items will cost you extra. Here are some specifics that may look pretty but will certainly raise your total cost:<br />
<ul>
<li>Double sided cards</li>
<li>Cards with rounded corners</li>
<li>Cards cut into fancy shapes (die cut)</li>
<li>Cards that fold or make an accordion shape</li>
<li>Cards with actual glitter or gold foil</li>
</ul>
While yes, all of these features are beautiful and unique, realistically, most of these Christmas cards are likely going to make their way into the trash can before the end of January, so I find it is better to pick the items that matter most to you and cut corners (pun intended) to save a few bucks wherever you can. <br />
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I do recommend getting a double sided card if you have lots of photos to share! You could even ask your designer to add some annual updates to the back of the card, and knock out the "family letter" and Christmas card design in one fell swoop! <br />
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Rounded corners are also a great way to get the die cut look without actually paying for a die cut, which could cost you around $2 per card. If you send out many cards, that can really add up! Folded cards and glitter or foil will also add to your total, so ask your designer if they can make a card <i>look</i> like it has glitter or foil, without actually paying out the nose to print that way: <b></b><br />
<b><br /></b><b><img border="0" height="456" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WBODtAY0t4U/Ve4Xpy3FHYI/AAAAAAAATys/4oFpszq_Zwo/s640/Glitter%2BGreetings%2Bfor%2BKrista.png" width="640" /></b><br />
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<b><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s06bc-4YV9M/Ve4ZkbM1qKI/AAAAAAAATy4/KRCwVOXlihM/s640/Cheers%2Bto%2BYou%2BHoliday%2BCard.png" width="456" /><br /></b></div>
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That is what you need to know up front, and check back for our next post where we'll discuss layouts and colors!<br />
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-78136892924227309582015-09-04T05:00:00.000-05:002015-09-04T09:01:10.914-05:00Friday Favorites: Maroon<div style="text-align: center;">
It's no secret that the Merry Mommas are AGGIES and we love all things AGGIE so for today's Friday Favorites we present </div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: x-large;">MAROON!</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xyy5AsvwFTM/Vd99dpWalKI/AAAAAAAADmE/nf5lp64BNZI/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xyy5AsvwFTM/Vd99dpWalKI/AAAAAAAADmE/nf5lp64BNZI/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Aggie Football</span></div>
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The Aggies kick off their season tomorrow in Houston against Arizona State. BTHO ASU! WHOOP!</div>
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(If you need help understanding those last two sentences, click <a href="http://traditions.tamu.edu/traditions/">here</a>.)</div>
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And, in case you weren't hyped enough, enjoy:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yDcTh3Y3h18/Vd99kS0GD9I/AAAAAAAADmM/bTB1ckrJ21U/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yDcTh3Y3h18/Vd99kS0GD9I/AAAAAAAADmM/bTB1ckrJ21U/s200/2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Trucks</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p25DX1Puuo0/Vd-ArOQ8cwI/AAAAAAAADmo/y8GlMDVXEeM/s1600/Truck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="433" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p25DX1Puuo0/Vd-ArOQ8cwI/AAAAAAAADmo/y8GlMDVXEeM/s640/Truck.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As Texas gals, we {OF COURSE} love a pickup truck, but we love a vintage maroon pickup truck even more! One of our local photographers, Amber of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/amberjphotographyBCS?fref=ts">Amber Janine Photography</a>, is hosting an <a href="http://www.amberjaninephotography.com/aggie-tailgate-mini-sessions-in-college-station-texas/">Aggie Tailgate Mini Session</a>. You may remember seeing this on our favorite local blog - <a href="http://thedishbcs.com/christmas-in-july/">The Dish</a> when we hosted Christmas in July with them! Merry Momma Cindy's great mother-in-law saw it and gifted a session to Cindy and her two sis-in-laws. Yep! The entire Munson clan will be getting Aggie pics. WHOOP! </div>
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Which leads us to #3 and #4...WHAT DO WE WEAR? Maroon, of course...but WHAT exactly?!?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IuE9iHMs5YI/Vd99sBVWR_I/AAAAAAAADmU/JPPPOSRnDtA/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IuE9iHMs5YI/Vd99sBVWR_I/AAAAAAAADmU/JPPPOSRnDtA/s200/3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Persnickety Clothing</span></div>
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Y'all. We are not billionaires. I know, I know, this may come as a shock to most of you...but if we were, our girls would own every piece of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.845443282191023.1073741915.111614132240612&type=3">Persnickety's 2015 Fall Line - Into the Woods</a>. The price tag is a little steep, but OH, the clothing is so</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I85D7VsY7u0/Vd-D3E_GjoI/AAAAAAAADm0/CUGUlsPT62k/s1600/Persn1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I85D7VsY7u0/Vd-D3E_GjoI/AAAAAAAADm0/CUGUlsPT62k/s640/Persn1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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GORGEOUS</div>
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BEAUTIFUL</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cNbqqlE9dyo/Vd-ES41yYDI/AAAAAAAADnE/WDhz3sMDxaA/s1600/persn3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cNbqqlE9dyo/Vd-ES41yYDI/AAAAAAAADnE/WDhz3sMDxaA/s640/persn3.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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CUTE</div>
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and MAROON!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Old Navy</span></div>
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But alas...we live in the real world with mortgages and savings accounts and soccer teams and piano lesson AND OLD NAVY. Old Navy has hit it outta the ball park with their maroon items this fall, they loving call the color marion berry, but we all know it's MAROON.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wKTCwGp2LMQ/VeDP3B8NnLI/AAAAAAAADoU/Ff3wrZDPBtI/s1600/ONGirls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wKTCwGp2LMQ/VeDP3B8NnLI/AAAAAAAADoU/Ff3wrZDPBtI/s640/ONGirls.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=596453002">Crepe Shirt</a> / <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=725394012">Polka Dotted Pixies</a> / <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=597034002">Quilted Vest</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7AWnygypIqM/VeDQSlB33JI/AAAAAAAADoc/B4PSMI_JKIA/s1600/ONBoys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7AWnygypIqM/VeDQSlB33JI/AAAAAAAADoc/B4PSMI_JKIA/s640/ONBoys.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=597474012">Raglan</a> / <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=597033012">Buffalo Plaid</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hrHwJ-jR9uo/VeDRkrL7omI/AAAAAAAADoo/79s4BO3AlKQ/s1600/DadMomON.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hrHwJ-jR9uo/VeDRkrL7omI/AAAAAAAADoo/79s4BO3AlKQ/s640/DadMomON.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=712010002">Eyelet Shift</a> / <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=712402012">Canvas Lace Ups</a> / <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=602839012">French Terry Top</a></div>
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<span class="s1">Linking up with <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/"><span class="s2">Andrea</span></a>, <a href="http://www.tabanderika.blogspot.com/"><span class="s2">Erika</span></a>, and <a href="https://graceandloveblog.wordpress.com/"><span class="s2">Narci</span></a></span></div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-15803330612729984002015-09-02T05:00:00.000-05:002015-09-02T05:00:02.569-05:00WWLW: Jen and AngHey friends!<br />
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Katy and I have some friends that we are just IN LOVE with and honestly, we would be just horrible people if we didn't introduce you to them. Maybe some of you know them...they are kinda famous. Just a tad famous in fact. And they may not really be our friends, but we know if they met us they would totally fall in love with us too.<br />
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First up...Angie Smith:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XSDyU4rOt7M/VeO0S0IpSgI/AAAAAAAADpA/OIsl5GxpNeA/s1600/angie-smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XSDyU4rOt7M/VeO0S0IpSgI/AAAAAAAADpA/OIsl5GxpNeA/s400/angie-smith.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Isn't she beautiful!</div>
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And she's just as pretty on the inside.</div>
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We first "met" Angie through her blog - <a href="http://angiesmithonline.com/audreys-story/">Bring the Rain</a>. Go ahead, go read it now. You're back! Her story is moving, isn't it. We both have read her book, "I Will Carry You" and were captivated by her unwavering love for Jesus, even in the rain. And then we heard her speak at <a href="http://www.lifeway.com/n/Product-Family/dotMom?type=events">dotMom</a>. Y'all, this woman can PREACH! Her talk was titled, "Evaluating the Subtext of Parenting". I won't rewrite her entire speech her, but two of the things she said that have stuck with me are "My children are not props in my performance" and "My child, you are NOT an inconvenience to me". Now that's some good stuff.</div>
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We fell a little deeper in love with good ol' Ang this summer when we did her bible study <a href="http://www.lifeway.com/n/Product-Family/Seamless">Seamless</a>.</div>
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Katy and I really wanted to the study and we decided to invite our friends and their friends...and y'all...we were blessed by the study and this group of ladies. If you have done ZERO or HUNDREDS of bible studies, this one is for you. </div>
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Love these ladies!</div>
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And now...Jen Hatmaker:</div>
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She's beautiful too...inside and out!</div>
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We also "met" Jen through the blogging world. Go read her <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/about.htm">"about"</a>...she just a cool chick. She has some awesome posts that have gone viral...one of our most favorite is <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2013/05/30/worst-end-of-school-year-mom-ever">Worst End of School Year Mom Ever</a>, we can totally relate! And this <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2015/01/05/the-thing-about-being-more-awesome">post</a> was pretty AWESOME too. She and her family are also pretty famous from their TV show - <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/shows/my-big-family-renovation/a-hatmaker-home-renovation-pictures">My Big Family Renovation</a>. And she's writes books, NBD. I read <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/seven">7</a> a few years ago and really could relate to her feeling of TOO MUCH. She has a bible study associated with it now and Katy and I are thinking of doing it. Anyone out there done the 7 Bible Study?</div>
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And now she has gone and wrote another book...one that is on the bestsellers list:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cKGP_LQl08s/VeRs-Hf5BhI/AAAAAAAADqA/4fs3K9_Ivvc/s1600/FTL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cKGP_LQl08s/VeRs-Hf5BhI/AAAAAAAADqA/4fs3K9_Ivvc/s400/FTL.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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I am only a few chapters in, but goodness, it is great. Buy it <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/forthelove">here</a>! And then this paragraph, "There is a biblical benchmark I now use. We will refer to this criterion for every hard question, big idea, topic, assessment of our own obedience, every 'should' or 'should not' and 'will' and 'will not' we ascribe to God, every theological sound bite. Here it is: If it isn't also true for a poor single Christian mom in Haiti, it isn't true." (Chapter 3, page 18)</div>
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Thanks for indulging us as we talk about our blog crushes...we think Ang and Jen are pretty cool and hope you do too!</div>
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If you have read any of their books or blog posts, we'd love to hear what you think! We love comments!</div>
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<img alt=" photo YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" border="0" src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy8/JumpingJaxDesigns/Blog%20Designs/YourMerryMailboxSignature_zps6126bec3.png" />MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-39379115050036739032015-08-31T05:00:00.000-05:002015-08-31T05:00:05.726-05:00OH WHAT FUN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uF8PaxvDr5o/VeDD48wYlsI/AAAAAAAADnw/5IH6_tp70vU/s1600/MalnarFront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uF8PaxvDr5o/VeDD48wYlsI/AAAAAAAADnw/5IH6_tp70vU/s640/MalnarFront.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSxq6hKCSKA/VeDD6A-lyXI/AAAAAAAADn4/RQIeKyxrA8g/s1600/MalnarBack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSxq6hKCSKA/VeDD6A-lyXI/AAAAAAAADn4/RQIeKyxrA8g/s640/MalnarBack.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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<b>Who:</b> The Malnar Family - Justin, Meredith, Jackson and Andrew</div>
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<b>Location: </b>The park area adjacent to the Brazos Center. The location was suggested by our lovely photographer because it was a great morning location (our shoot started at 7:45 am) and does fall tones well. The bridge made an excellent backdrop.</div>
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<i>We loved seeing y'all use the somewhat hidden park right behind the Brazos Center, it has the BEST bridge/wooden walkway ever! Merry Momma Cindy did a photo shot there with her three little ladies a few years ago. The bridge is just great!</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwO0inJkwrk/Vd9zMEJD6OI/AAAAAAAADlM/9v7O4JrZH8U/s1600/bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwO0inJkwrk/Vd9zMEJD6OI/AAAAAAAADlM/9v7O4JrZH8U/s320/bridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Clothes: </b><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">I was so proud of
myself for really planning ahead for our outfits for this shoot. </span><span style="background: white; color: #4d4d4d; line-height: 115%;">A</span>bout a month before, I shopped online and bought everyone
coordinating outfits. When the packages started arriving though, I realized my
best laid plans were a major fail. The colors that looked to be complimentary
on my computer screen clashed in real life, my top was ill fitting, etc. So
without much time, I shopped our closets
big time. I started with Andrew's green and blue plaid shirt and went from
there. I think Jackson's shirt was the only thing we bought new and I believe
it came from Target. </span></div>
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<i>Well, Momma Meredith, shopping your closet was a GREAT idea and you were WAY ahead of the curve on this one...PLAIDS! PLAIDS! PLAID! They are everywhere this year. And NAVY is always classic and timeless.</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0QavfJnWsY/Vd92KsXSwII/AAAAAAAADlY/78e1LCAQkKg/s1600/Plaid2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0QavfJnWsY/Vd92KsXSwII/AAAAAAAADlY/78e1LCAQkKg/s640/Plaid2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=723061002">Dad</a> / <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/4130277335015.jsp#/">Mom</a> / <a href="http://www.target.com/p/girls-plaid-button-down-shirt/-/A-17249862#prodSlot=_1_1">Daughter</a> / <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=41893&vid=1&pid=714440012">Son</a></i></div>
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<i>(And that navy and white plaid shirt has been in my cart at Target no less than 5 times, but I always put it back...I think I'm getting it next time!)</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Momments:</b> (As in Mom Comments) <span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4d4d; line-height: 30.3999996185303px;">The tricycle and the way the boys interacted together on it played perfectly with the "Oh What Fun!" theme I had in my head. Having two small boys is loud, messy, crazy, exhausting, but ultimately so much </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #4d4d4d; line-height: 30.3999996185303px;">fun</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4d4d; line-height: 30.3999996185303px;">. Capturing their relationship and the joy they bring to our family was my goal for this card and I feel like we achieved that</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d4d4d; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30.3999996185303px;">!</span><br />
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<i>The Merry Mommas LOVE a <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/08/wwlw-props-tricycles.html">tricycle pic</a>!</i></div>
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<b>Designer: </b>Me, with lots of "Oh What Fun" inspiration from Pinterest, Etsy, etc.</div>
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<i>We played a bit on the internet too...we found these to be inspiring!</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajHt71BM_NE/VeDG6uefNiI/AAAAAAAADoE/NzsRsbV6kNE/s1600/OHWHATFUN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajHt71BM_NE/VeDG6uefNiI/AAAAAAAADoE/NzsRsbV6kNE/s640/OHWHATFUN.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.tinyprints.com/product/51253/birthday_party_invitations_first_year_fun_envy.html">1</a> / <a href="http://www.minted.com/product/christmas-photo-cards/MIN-2A0-CHR/oh-what-fun?org=photo">2</a> / <a href="http://www.zazzle.com/oh_what_fun_holiday_photo_card-161236082558746904">3</a> / <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/211139354/gold-christmas-card-photo-card-custom?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=oh%20what%20fun%20christmas%20card&ref=sr_gallery_3">4</a> </div>
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<b>Photographer:</b> Sarah Burns of Butterfly Chaser Photography (no longer taking new clients)</div>
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<b>Merry Mommas' Favorite Thing: </b>The boys are adorable (of course), the lighting is great and the smiles from all are so natural, but what we really love is that Meredith did the front vertical and the back horizontal. Way to not conform and do the norm! </div>
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<b>Blog:</b> <a href="http://themalnarfamily.blogspot.com/">The Malnar Family</a></div>
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<i>MAD ABOUT PLAID CARDS</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F-Q8Cf5ROmo/Vd93nQG6wTI/AAAAAAAADlk/BeeR7kCMPD0/s1600/EtsyPlaid.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F-Q8Cf5ROmo/Vd93nQG6wTI/AAAAAAAADlk/BeeR7kCMPD0/s400/EtsyPlaid.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/211325838/plaid-christmas-photo-cards-red-and-gray?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=plaid%20christmas%20card&ref=sr_gallery_9">day dreams paper</a> via Etsy</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.minted.com/product/holiday-postcards/MIN-3Q6-HPC/christmas-plaid">Minted</a></i></div>
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<a href="https://www.tinyprints.com/product/66553/foil_stamped_holiday_cards_merry_outlines.html">Tiny Prints</a></div>
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MerryMommashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10570183818688903204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5590428193160727677.post-21784625639128824452015-08-28T01:00:00.000-05:002015-08-28T07:17:29.283-05:00Friday Favorites: Christmas Card Displays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry Readers - we have a treat for you today... remember <a href="http://iwillservewhileiwait.blogspot.com/">Holly</a>? Of course you do - her family did the ADORABLE cards with <a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/2015/08/pjs-of-christmas-past.html">PJs of Christmas past</a> we featured on Tuesday. Well today she is here to share all about her favorite ways to display these amazing cards we have all started planning. </div>
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Enjoy!<br />
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I ran across this on <b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/hollymcberty/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></b> and had to giggle. But, isn't it the truth?! Summer flies by. School starts back up and before you know it the kids are picking out Halloween costumes! Then you realize, holy heck, we've got to get our Christmas card together! The <b><a href="http://yourmerrymailbox.blogspot.com/p/meet-merry-mommas.html" target="_blank">Merry Mommas</a></b> have ideas galore to help you design your card but today I want to share some of my FAVORITE ideas on Christmas card displays!
From the day after Thanksgiving (for those over achievers) to even a day or two or three after Christmas (for those that are bound and determined to get them out), my most FAVORITE thing to do is check the mail. I absolutely love receiving Christmas cards! The majority of the cards have pictures and I always love including them with my holiday decorations.
While perusing Pinterest, I've come up with a few easy and MERRY ways for you to display your Christmas cards this year!
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5uhS8QoKJg/Vd-jsiafihI/AAAAAAAAWBw/NY1KokAdNBg/s1600/attach%2Bto%2Byour%2Bwalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5uhS8QoKJg/Vd-jsiafihI/AAAAAAAAWBw/NY1KokAdNBg/s640/attach%2Bto%2Byour%2Bwalls.jpg" title="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" width="448" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.homelife.com.au/decorating/galleries/crafty+christmas+decorating+ideas,10283" target="_blank">1</a></b> / <b><a href="http://diefrauimhaus.com/2010/11/03/die-pimpwand/" target="_blank">2</a></b> / <b><a href="http://www.designimprovised.com/2013/12/holiday-card-display-and-minted-giveaway.html" target="_blank">3</a></b> / <b><a href="http://lucyking-bowerbird.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-little-house-on-design-files.html" target="_blank">4</a></b></div>
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So cute and so easy - that's my FAVORITE! Use reusable adhesive so removal will be a breeze! You can use the cards to create a shape, add twinkly lights or washi tape, or simply arrange them around your door.
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-TRaxWHluw/Vd-kDMrhatI/AAAAAAAAWB4/acZW6-6Ym0A/s1600/in%2Ba%2Bstairwell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-TRaxWHluw/Vd-kDMrhatI/AAAAAAAAWB4/acZW6-6Ym0A/s640/in%2Ba%2Bstairwell.jpg" title="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" width="448" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.thedesertblossom.com/2013/01/diy-valentine-wreath.html" target="_blank">1</a></b> / <b><a href="http://beautifulbydesign.co/graduation-celebration/" target="_blank">2</a></b> / <b><a href="http://www.thesunnysideupblog.com/2010/12/2010-card-and-photo-garland/" target="_blank">3</a></b></div>
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This is great use of space! Simply add your cards to a ribbon on the wall or hang them from the banister - ta da! Instant Christmas decorations!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OrtuyMRnNU8/Vd-lb73wW-I/AAAAAAAAWCI/OeDF9V2ktXw/s1600/on%2Ba%2Bstring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OrtuyMRnNU8/Vd-lb73wW-I/AAAAAAAAWCI/OeDF9V2ktXw/s640/on%2Ba%2Bstring.jpg" title="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" width="448" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://littlenannygoat.blogspot.com/2011/01/its-so-hard-to-say-good-bye.html" target="_blank">1</a></b> / <b><a href="http://wm13.walmart.com/Crafts/Articles/Christmas_Card_Display_Idea_-_Festive_Window_Garland/2903/" target="_blank">2</a></b></div>
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What a fun way to decorate windows or doorways! So simple - so easy - my FAVORITE way to decorate!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N9UEfCLou3Y/Vd-nzg1mMeI/AAAAAAAAWCU/9elN5Gqsrxw/s1600/using%2Bitems%2Byou%2Balready%2Bown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N9UEfCLou3Y/Vd-nzg1mMeI/AAAAAAAAWCU/9elN5Gqsrxw/s640/using%2Bitems%2Byou%2Balready%2Bown.jpg" title="While I'm Waiting...Christmas card displays" width="448" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://madeinaday.com/2013/11/21/quirky-wire-hanger-holiday-card-holder/" target="_blank">1</a></b> / <b><a href="http://frenchyfancy.com/visite-privee-chez-didier-collectionneur-de-design/" target="_blank">2</a></b> / <b><a href="http://www.tipsfromatypicalmomblog.com/2009/12/creative-way-to-display-christmas-cards.html" target="_blank">3</a></b> / <b><a href="http://melissadark.blogspot.ca/2010/12/christmas-project-5.html" target="_blank">4</a></b> / <b><a href="http://pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com/2009/12/christmas-card-display.html" target="_blank">5</a></b></div>
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A few of my FAVORITE ideas were items using household items that you might have laying around your house. Ribbon, paperclips, an unused wire wreath, wire hangers - if you have any of these items you're set to display your Christmas cards like a pro!</div>
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And, what about when Christmas is over? It's always a sad day when I have to take down the cards. I know the time and money that went in to these works of art and I just can not bring myself to throw them away. Years ago, <b><a href="http://queeninbetween.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shelly</a></b> and I would get together in January and scrapbook our Christmas cards. Sadly, I'm behind a few years but I have them in ziplocks just waiting on that free weekend with nothing to do! :) But, if you need a little inspiration, check out <b><a href="http://www.theshoppingmama.com/2013/01/easy-crafts-to-reuse-repurpose-christmas-holiday-cards/" target="_blank">this</a></b> awesome idea!<br />
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<a href="http://www.theshoppingmama.com/2013/01/easy-crafts-to-reuse-repurpose-christmas-holiday-cards/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdyLYTKGfUU/Vd-pUq3XNuI/AAAAAAAAWCc/pMLrocSxR2o/s640/easy-way-to-save-christmas-cards-792x1024.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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Thank you so much, Cindy and Katy, for letting me share a few of my FAVORITE things! I hope you guys enjoy these easy and MERRY ways to display Christmas cards. Oh, and did you realize there are only 17 Fridays till Christmas?!
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: appleberry; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Have a blessed day! Gig 'em and God bless!</span><br />
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<span class="s1">Linking up with <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/"><span class="s2">Andrea</span></a>, <a href="http://www.tabanderika.blogspot.com/"><span class="s2">Erika</span></a>, and <a href="https://graceandloveblog.wordpress.com/"><span class="s2">Narci</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: appleberry; font-size: 26pt; line-height: 39.8666687011719px;">Holly</span></div>
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