tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58770038729559296712024-03-12T19:32:24.995-07:00Urban Baby bloggerSandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-49015392735798241342011-05-16T07:22:00.000-07:002011-06-14T17:33:30.107-07:002011 Spring/Summertime list of fun-Updated 6/14There is always so much fun to do around Des Moines. I find one of the hardest things is narrowing down what I want to focus on, otherwise we'd be running to several places each day! A child (and Mom) need downtime. Here is a list of my favorites, with more to be added as the Summer progresses. <div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/GraysLakePrkActEvents.aspx">Full Moon Float</a> 6/15/, 7/15, 8/13, 9/12 8:30-11 PM, $5/boat/half hour</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.sciowa.org/explore/exhibit/">Body Worlds Exhibit</a>, Science Center, Now through October- $19.25/ $8.75 member</div><div><a href="http://www.reimangardens.iastate.edu/index.cfm">Reiman Gardens</a> Big Bugs exhibit, now through 9/3</div><div><a href="http://www.kidsbowlfree.com/">Kids Bowl Free</a>, Now through Summer at participating bowling alleys</div><div><a href="http://www.reimangardens.iastate.edu/index.cfm?nodeID=5693&audienceID=1&action=detail&eventid=29083">Reiman Gardens Storytime</a>, now through September, every two weeks-GA/Free members</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/GraysLakePrkActEvents.aspx">Kite Flying Clu</a>b, August 27th 10AM-12PM-Free, 1st 50 get free kite kit</div><div><a href="http://www.blankparkzoo.com/index.cfm?nodeID=31891&audienceID=1">Adventure Days at the Zoo</a>, dates vary, included with admission</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/PDF/YogaontheLawn.pdf">Yoga on the Lawn</a>, Tuesdays & Thursdays 5/24-9/8 11:15 AM-Free yoga at Central Library</div><div><a href="http://www.marketdayiowa.com/schedule/">Market Day</a>, Not your Mom's craft show, last Saturday of month starting 5/28 through October</div><div><a href="http://www.botanicalcenter.com/SubPage.asp?MainLinkID=1">Toddler Time</a>, Botanical Center, Last Tuesday of month 10 AM, Members Free</div><div><a href="http://blogs.desmoinesregister.com/dmr/index.php/2011/05/24/free-outdoor-movies-at-the-des-moines-art-center/">Free Outdoor Movies at the Art Center</a>, June 2 Willy Wonka (go early), July 7th Jaws, August 4th Annie Hall, September 1st Casablanca (ok, not all movies are kid friendly, but still a fun time.)</div><div><a href="http://AnkenyUnplugged.com/">Ankeny Unplugged</a>, Saturdays in June, Concert series $3</div><div><a href="http://www.ritualcafe.com/calandar.htm">Open Mic Night</a>, Ritual Cafe 2nd Thursdays 7-9 PM, Free</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/PDF/Yoga%20in%20the%20Park%20Info.pdf">Yoga in the Park</a>, Saturdays at 9 AM, Starting 6/4-9/24-Free</div><div><a href="http://www.cinemark.com/images/smc2011/SMC2011_480.jpg">10 Movies for $5</a>, Jordan Creek, Tuesdays at 10 AM June 7th-August 9th (+coupon for snacks on link)</div><div><a href="http://www.carmike.com/promotions.aspx?id=107">Carmike Cinema $1 movie</a>s, Wynnsong, Johnston 10 AM Thursdays 6/16-8/11</div><div><a href="http://www.conservationboard.org/Pages/CalendarDetail.aspx?event=363">Nature's Story Hour</a>, 1st & 3rd Wednesday starting 6/1 through 8/10.-Free</div><div><a href="http://www.conservationboard.org/Pages/CalendarDetail.aspx?event=361">Nature's Playdates</a>, 2nd & 4th Wednesday starting 6/8-8/3-Free</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/PDF/Spring%20Summer%20brochure.pdf">Free activities each day at Evelyn Davis</a> Park 11 AM - 7 PM + Free tennis lessons at varies parks</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/PDF/Spring%20Summer%20brochure.pdf">Free floatin' flicks</a>, 6/10 Open 8 PM, 6/10 Teachout Aquatic-Despicable Me, 7/30 Nahas Aquatic How to Train Your Dragon, 8/6 NW Aquatic Monsters Inc.</div><div><a href="http://www.desmoinesartcenter.org/aspx/events/calendar.aspx">smART Second Saturday/Sundays</a>- Des Moines Art Center, June 11th/12th</div><div><a href="http://www.centraliowasmallfarms.com/">Sample Sundays</a>, 6/12, 7/17, 8/14... Farm fun, guest vendors, did I mention fun? Free</div><div><a href="http://starmusicdm.org/Schedule.html">Music under the Stars</a>, Iowa State Capital Grounds, free, two bands each day, 1st starting at 6:30, followed by one at 7:30, June 12/19/26 & July 3/10/17/24</div><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150201202299684&set=a.76859549683.74614.41207394683&type=1&theater">Sing-a-long</a>, Smokey Row 10 AM, June 14th, July 12th, & Tuesday August 9th</div><div><a href="http://www.desmoinesmetroopera.org/event_calendar/event_lookup.php?event_type=3">Peanut Butter & Puccini </a>, June 16th & 18th, Opera, backstage tour, & lunch $10- highly recommended!!!!!</div><div><a href="http://www.botanicalcenter.com/SubPage.asp?MainLinkID=1">Father's Day at the Botanical Center</a>, Free for Dads</div><div><a href="http://events.desmoineslibrary.com/aspx/events/default.aspx?eid=5837">Cultureall</a>, Des Moines Library, Rainforest- 6/21 10:30 Central, India- 6/27 2 PM Franklin, Japan-6/30 10:30 AM, Russia 7/11 Southside 1 PM, Kenya 7/12 10:30 AM Northside</div><div><a href="http://desmoinesartsfestival.org/">Des Moines Art Festival</a>, June 24-26th-Free</div><div><a href="http://www.dmsymphony.org/symphony-news/ydp-2011.html">Yankee Doodle Pops</a>, July 1st 8:30 PM, get there early for best spot- Des Moines' Best 4th of July celebration!</div><div><a href="http://www.metroarts.org/aspx/news/news.aspx">Jazz in July</a>, Almost daily jazz, mostly free through month of July</div><div><a href="http://events.desmoineslibrary.com/aspx/events/default.aspx?eid=5844">Puppet show</a>, 7/5 North Side library 10:30 AM </div><div><a href="http://events.desmoineslibrary.com/aspx/events/default.aspx?eid=5819">Creations with a twist</a>, 7/12 10:30 Central Library</div><div><a href="http://www.iowashakespeare.org/index.php">Shakespeare under the Sta</a>rs, Fridays-Sundays, July 22-31, 8:15 PM, Gates at 6 PM, last year was free, watch for more details, excellent event!</div><div><a href="http://www.iowahistory.org/education/history-through-the-arts.html">Puppet Show by kids</a>, Historical Museum, July 29th 11 AM & 1 PM- $5</div><div><a href="http://www.blankparkzoo.com/index.cfm?nodeID=19510&audienceID=1">Safari Splash</a>, Blank park zoo, August 1-5th, included w/admission </div><div><a href="http://www.iowastatefair.org/">Iowa State Fair</a>, August 11-21st</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/PDF/Spring%20Summer%20brochure.pdf">Free Movies</a>, Saturdays in September at Union Park 9/3 Karate Kid, 9/10 Tangled, 9/17 TS3, 9/24 Despicable Me</div><div><br /></div><div>Farmer's markets:</div><div><a href="http://www.desmoinesfarmersmarket.com/">Downtown Farmer's Market</a>, Saturdays 9-12, Now through end of October</div><div><a href="http://www.desmoinesfarmersmarket.com/">Valley Junction Farmer's Market,</a> Thursdays, 4 PM - 8 PM now through end of September</div><div><a href="http://www.drakefarmersmarket.com/">Drake Farmer's Marke</a>t, Wednesdays 4-7 PM June 1st-through September</div><div><a href="http://www.shopsouthridgemall.com/Events/Details/34628">Southridge Farmer's Market</a>, Mondays 4- 7 PM Now through October 24th</div><div><br /></div><div>Misc....</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/PoolSeasonRentalInfo.aspx">Wading Pools & Swimming Pool </a>information, Opens June 6th- Wading pools-free</div><div><a href="http://www.pldminfo.org/events_news/index.html">Des Moines Library Events</a>, including storytimes, AVID lecture series info, and Summer reading program </div><div><a href="http://www.botanicalcenter.com/">Botanical Center</a></div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/departments/parks/Pages/default.aspx">Des Moines Park & Rec</a></div><div><a href="http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/calendar/calendar.asp?action=menu&year=2007">BikeIowa</a> ride calendar, many family friendly & free</div><div><a href="http://www.blankparkzoo.com/">Blank Park Zoo</a> -Dinosaur exhibit starts May 27th</div><div><a href="http://www.lhf.org/">Living History Farms</a></div><div><a href="http://www.sciowa.org/event-calendar/">Science Center of Iowa</a>- Daily calendar of events</div><div><a href="http://www.seedesmoines.com/calendar/calendar.php">SeeDesMoines.com</a>- Calendar of events</div><div><a href="http://www.dmsymphony.org/component/option,com_gigcal/task,calendar/month,5/year,2011/Itemid,246/">Des Moines Symphon</a>y Calendar of events</div><div><a href="http://www.dmplayhouse.com/">Des Moines Playhouse</a></div><div><a href="http://www.drake.edu/calendar/index.php?year=2011&month=05&day=16&mode=month&category=0">Drake's </a>calendar of events, including sporting & concerts</div><div><a href="http://www.midiowarollers.com/schedule/">Mid-Iowa Rollers</a> schedule</div><div><a href="http://www.dmderbydames.com/schedule.html">Des Moines Derby Dames</a> schedule</div><div><a href="http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/promotions/index.jsp?sid=t451">I-Cubs Schedule</a>-Promo days schedule ($1 days, bring canned food for free admission, etc)</div><div><a href="http://www.menacesoccer.com/schedule/promotions/">Menace Soccer</a> -Promo Schedule</div><div><a href="http://www.reimangardens.iastate.edu/en/education_events/">Reiman Gardens</a> event page</div><div><a href="http://salisburyhouse.org/tours.php">Salisbury House</a></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-55260750818104428662011-02-20T11:39:00.000-08:002011-02-20T11:42:20.991-08:00Meal PlanningIn the quest to get healthy, I am getting back on track for meal planning. <div><br /></div><div><div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; ">Sunday: Soup dinner</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; ">Monday: vegetable fried rice / orange chicken for Jon/Sydney</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; ">Tuesday: spinach quiche with fruit & salad</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; ">Wednesday: goat cheese & pepper pizza with salad </div><div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; ">Thursday: DNA Social </div><div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; ">Friday: Vegetable tofu pad-thai and spring rolls</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; ">Saturday: Open</div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-24205718202192439412011-02-11T13:47:00.000-08:002011-02-11T14:13:57.215-08:00Daddy/Daughter Dance<div><br /></div><div>Jon has been busy...so much so that we are considering putting Sydney in part-time daycare or preschool to give me a break and an opportunity to work more on social media for local businesses. Jon was happy to drop everything to take Sydney to the Daddy/Daughter dance put on by the Zoo. The day before the dance, Sydney and I had fun having her try on dress after dress until we finally settled on the one below. I think we picked out a pretty cute one. Apparently Jon & Sydney had fun dancing the night away, checking out the indoor portion of the zoo, and eating chocolate fondue. </div><div>I on the other hand, had a wonderful Mom's night out. The evening started by getting tea at my favorite coffee shop, then meeting up with a friend for a much needed pedicure. </div><div>All around a pretty great night! </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU642oMs5NZI9OFIT-BgOss2XnjN8sWtStoQQDyF97xWBht4HmAVsQIXUDTR5hmu9K64F7CUMgP65n0DtB-aU8Ay_LYH5Jl3KCczZhpYZXllyPV5pj2YftQFzeB990_GWzPq93oppRuqJl/s1600/IMG_1189.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU642oMs5NZI9OFIT-BgOss2XnjN8sWtStoQQDyF97xWBht4HmAVsQIXUDTR5hmu9K64F7CUMgP65n0DtB-aU8Ay_LYH5Jl3KCczZhpYZXllyPV5pj2YftQFzeB990_GWzPq93oppRuqJl/s320/IMG_1189.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572555602858055714" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjse3OtSjVt53wNK2wUSks5rVlvqb9z1pzDRqhZZmkw43W2DE7cqu8pmVjo8YUSBf4uNafIaLPLG-5LqKnSPqLfhVK4EzDWLbI5aZKkw10ixhKJORi1-zjT85GaVIf9_DD-aTs3OGyJBR34/s1600/IMG_1147_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 302px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjse3OtSjVt53wNK2wUSks5rVlvqb9z1pzDRqhZZmkw43W2DE7cqu8pmVjo8YUSBf4uNafIaLPLG-5LqKnSPqLfhVK4EzDWLbI5aZKkw10ixhKJORi1-zjT85GaVIf9_DD-aTs3OGyJBR34/s320/IMG_1147_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572555084075238466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFj9VCa8A29SHctEuVXfWyRFKyqF1P9WbOEk1eR9TK2mRxjuT73dnVqbEIZs-3Kk3EUB-sNBjhIm_Ivd2WghZdCE7R4los0FVFpFwJJtIvwOVELBR2uvcNwWYZa9WnyB4YzmDDNvLiW5c/s1600/IMG_1156_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 194px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFj9VCa8A29SHctEuVXfWyRFKyqF1P9WbOEk1eR9TK2mRxjuT73dnVqbEIZs-3Kk3EUB-sNBjhIm_Ivd2WghZdCE7R4los0FVFpFwJJtIvwOVELBR2uvcNwWYZa9WnyB4YzmDDNvLiW5c/s320/IMG_1156_2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572554781694468306" /></a><br /><div><br /></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-52176079292156912422010-11-04T12:36:00.001-07:002010-11-04T12:36:50.401-07:00Healthy Changes<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="margin-top: 0.25em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 1.4em; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 153, 102); background-image: url(http://www1.blogblog.com/dots/bg_post_title_left.gif); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 45px; background-position: 0% 0.25em; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">Healthy Changes</h3><div class="post-header"><div class="post-header-line-1"></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 1.6em; ">Ok, I'll admit it. This Summer was far from easy, for a multitude of reasons. Before July, I had gotten into a pretty good rhythm of self care, or at least I was getting better at it. Once I injured my knee, it all got thrown out the window and I haven't gotten back into the swing of things. Getting back to taking care of me has been on my mind a lot lately and I've decided to do something about it.<div>In the next week I'm going to rejoin weight-watchers. I joined in 2006 for the first time and lost almost 25 lbs before getting pregnant. I am not a yo-yo fad dieter, I generally don't put garbage (ie fast food, fake sugars) in my body. I simply like food and don't move enough.</div><div>Which leads me to the next thing I'm going to do. Join the Y. There is a lovely YMCA 13 blocks away from my house that offers child care. I'm going to join. I love to be active. Swimming, biking, and yoga are all favorite pastimes now it's time to put this enjoyment to action. I was attending yoga 2-4 times a week pre-knee injury. I want to work that in at least once per week, as well.</div><div>Since I'm working on my health, it's also time to schedule an appointment for a physical. I am generally good about scheduling annual exams, but as far as regular physicals go, I don't remember the last time I had one. I'd like to get my iron and thyroid levels checked, as well as know what my cholesterol levels are. It's also time to find a new Doctor.</div><div>With this, I also want to continue with crafting. As much as I love crafting, I find it easy to put aside. Time to add it to the schedule as well.</div><div>I know I can do all of these things. Now that I've posted this for the world to see, it will be easier with follow through. Thank-you for reading.</div></div></span>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-53260015599943612292010-09-24T13:02:00.000-07:002010-09-24T13:08:35.102-07:00This just hits home today...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; ">"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." -Marianne Williamson</span>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-1477836434597415582010-08-23T09:18:00.000-07:002010-08-23T11:36:45.752-07:00Meal Plan Monday<div>Sunday Stuffed red bell peppers with couscous/mint/raisins, lemon & EVOO salad with feta & sunflower seeds</div><div>Monday Pesto pasta, salad, peaches</div><div>Tuesday Sydney's choice</div><div>Wednesday Chicken tikka masala for Jon/Sydney Palek paneer for me</div><div>Thursday Bob's Red Mill Vegi Soup with homemade bread </div><div>Friday Homemade pizza with fresh mozzarella, garden tomatoes, basil, & garlic</div><div>Saturday Farmer's Market special</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-9785049177370484822010-06-21T15:19:00.000-07:002010-06-21T15:28:13.760-07:00Meal Plan MondaySunday<div>homemade pizza, using AB5 crust, fresh mozzarella, basil, & 1/2 deli pepperoni (Jon), cherries, salad with cranberries, sunflower seeds, homemade dressing</div><div>Monday</div><div>Left overs for me, Jon & Syd will have Brats, garden peas, pineapple</div><div>Tuesday</div><div>Chili lime couscous salad</div><div>Wednesday</div><div>Grilled veggie pasta salad</div><div>Thursday</div><div>Enchiladas</div><div>Friday & Saturday</div><div>Art Festival Time! We'll have sandwich fixings & things to grill, but keep it pretty simple. We want plenty of time to enjoy in on the fun!</div><div><br /></div><div>What are you dining on this week?</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-22560014679722997152010-06-11T12:18:00.001-07:002010-06-11T13:04:18.097-07:00Things to do around townI am always looking for new, inexpensive things to do around town. I figured it was due time I shared some of my findings. Most things in the list are either free or low cost. Have something to add? Please post in the comments section. <div><br /></div><div>Farmer's Markets</div><div>Saturdays- Downtown Farmers Market (and the West Side's)</div><div>Wednesday- Drake neighborhood market, Living History Farm's Market</div><div>Thursdays- Valley Junction Market </div><div><br /></div><div>Yoga</div><div>Free & Festive Yoga at Firehouse yoga on Friday June 18th at 5:15pm</div><div>Free Yoga at 7pm, Fridays in Ankeny, Wagner Park (free movie starts at 8)</div><div>Yoga in the Park at Gray's Lake, 9 AM Saturdays through the Summer</div><div>Yoga on the Lawn, North lawn of WDM city Hall, now through September 26th, 9AM</div><div>Free yoga for a week when you become a fan of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/firehouseyoga.net/">firehouse yoga</a> on facebook or twitter during the month of June.</div><div><br /></div><div>Movies:</div><div>Fridays, 8pm, in Ankeny at Wagner Park through the Summer-Free</div><div>Des Moines Art Center movies on the lawn at Meier Terrace. July 1st "Sixteen Candles" & August 5 "A Night at the Opera." Starts around 8:30</div><div><a href="http://www.cinemark.com/summermovieclubhouse/SMC2010_480.jpg">$1 Movies</a>, Jordan Creek, Tuesdays at 10AM </div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/FunInOnWater.aspx">Floatin' Free Flicks</a>, Gates open at 8:</div><div>7/9 NW Aquatic Center</div><div>7/30 Teachout Aquatic Center</div><div>8/6 Nahas Aquatic Center</div><div><br /></div><div>Music & Arts</div><div><a href="http://www.civicmusic.org/belin/program.htm">Belin Quartet</a>, Fridays through July 30th, 12:15PM. Location is at Nollen Plaza or the Library</div><div>Music at Chocolaterie Stam on Ingersoll 6/11 & 6/12 7-9pm</div><div>Kid's sing a long, Smokey Row June 15th & 30th, 10AM</div><div>Open Mic night, 2nd Thursday of the month, Ritual Cafe</div><div><a href="http://www.iowashakespeare.org/index.php/about-our-summer-festival/10-detail-schedule/">Free Shakespeare in Des Moines</a>, dates varies</div><div><a href="http://www.metroarts.org/userdocs/Jazz_in_July_2010.pdf">Jazz in July</a>, 24 free concerts around Des Moines </div><div><a href="http://www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/">Des Moines Arts Festival</a>, June 25-27th</div><div><br /></div><div>Farm & Food Fun:</div><div>Gelato Party at Chocolaterie Stam's Ingersoll location, 6/15 </div><div><span><span><a href="http://www.centraliowasmallfarms.com/">Sample Sunday</a></span></span><a href="http://www.centraliowasmallfarms.com/">s</a>, Date varies, next on is 6/13 12-5. Tour local farms in Central Iowa. Way more fun that you know what to do with</div><div><br /></div><div>Outdoors:</div><div><a href="http://www.conservationboard.org/Pages/news.aspx">Nature Story Hour</a>, June 16th & 30th, Various locations, Noon</div><div><a href="http://www.conservationboard.org/Pages/news.aspx">Nature Play Dates</a>, June 23rd & July 7th, Various Locations 10:30</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/GraysLakePrkActEvents.aspx">Kite Flying Club</a>, Gray's Lake, 4th Tuesday through October, 5-7 pm</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/GraysLakePrkActEvents.aspx">Fish Printing</a>, 6/15, 5:30, Gray's Lake by concession stand</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/GraysLakePrkActEvents.aspx">Sand Sculptures</a>, 7/17 10:30, Gray's Lake</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/GraysLakePrkActEvents.aspx">Leaf Boat Building</a> 8/14 10:30, Gray's Lake</div><div><a href="http://www.dmgov.org/Departments/Parks/Pages/GraysLakePrkActEvents.aspx">Moon Float</a> (awesome fun!) June 26th, 9-11pm, charge for boat rentals</div><div><a href="http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/promotions/page.jsp?ymd=20100329&content_id=8982948&vkey=promo_t451&fext=.jsp&sid=t451">I Cubs Dollar Days</a>, July 19th & August 23rd, 7:05pm </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Of course there is so much more to do in the Des Moines Area: Swimming, biking, going to the beaches, etc. What do you plan on doing this Summer?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-77071450714448694842010-06-03T12:07:00.000-07:002010-06-03T12:10:13.789-07:00Thankful ThursdayToday I am thankful for:<div>Plants in the garden</div><div>Sunshine outside</div><div>That an odd bump on my back is nothing serious and will get removed next week </div><div>A happy child</div><div>A new to me bike!</div><div>That Jon & I will be celebrating our 10 year anniversary next week!!! Wowza!</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-685153753573069392010-05-20T19:36:00.000-07:002010-05-20T19:42:58.010-07:00Thankful ThursdayToday I am thankful for:<div>The gift of great friends</div><div>A husband that will get me soup when I'm feeling under the weather</div><div>Quiet Days</div><div>The opportunity to go see the Dalai Lama (more on that later)</div><div><br /></div><div><div><div><br /></div></div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-27188345728477316132010-05-20T19:35:00.000-07:002010-05-20T19:36:36.813-07:00Hoopin' Fun<div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl_xsopqUcjxqTzjCg6e0NQxHKWsohCe56KCGZc_KtfRVMopegfB3sqoaj11EDc_5D-ns7gD1IFeNFVwxlOi5T9wRxzkfAWImjkaYETpG-eWBDU75b4tm1L9RuW_sxX7xWRWb-WJzUurQ/s1600/IMG_1052.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl_xsopqUcjxqTzjCg6e0NQxHKWsohCe56KCGZc_KtfRVMopegfB3sqoaj11EDc_5D-ns7gD1IFeNFVwxlOi5T9wRxzkfAWImjkaYETpG-eWBDU75b4tm1L9RuW_sxX7xWRWb-WJzUurQ/s320/IMG_1052.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473539600019250930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><br />I have had the opportunity to do some amazing things this past week. Last Saturday, I hopped in the car with three friends and headed down to Kansas City for a Hula Hooping convention. That's right, a hula hooping convention. I am new to the "sport" of hooping and had a blast. I am happy to say that I can hula hoop until I get tired, instead of dropping the hoop right away.<div>Notice my wild looking hair. The night before the convention I had fun making up hair falls made of yarn.</div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-18557150785172628142010-04-15T11:42:00.001-07:002010-04-15T11:42:24.111-07:00Thankful ThursdayToday I am thankful for :<div>A beautiful day</div><div>A naping daughter</div><div>A quiet house</div><div>Food in the fridge</div><div>Great friends</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-40543477483572959822010-03-25T12:25:00.000-07:002010-03-25T12:33:01.406-07:00Thankful ThursdayGreater inner peace. I have felt very calm this week and maybe even less irritated at the little things than normal. <div>Roof over my head.</div><div>Exciting new opportunities</div><div>Garden planning</div><div>Paying off Sydney's NICU physician's bill (Yay! We have a little left on the hospital bill, then we will be done paying for her care in NICU! Woo-hoo!!)</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-89705298438057336442010-03-08T18:24:00.000-08:002010-03-08T18:46:49.115-08:00Adventures in TechnologyThings have been a whirlwind here. Jon has been working up a storm. He was part of a startup weekend where strangers gather to form businesses. The group he was in won second place (judges placed 8 votes for the first place winners and 7 for Jon's group.) I won't get into all the details until they are hammered out, but lets just say there are some very exciting things going on with some amazing people! :)<div>In addition to that, he now has his own internet radio show, Talking Mac with Jon Thompson. Yup, an hour long show, once a week, dedicated to talking nothing but Macintosh computers, iphones, ipads, etc. He's off to a great start! His show airs at 8pm CST on Tuesdays at <a href="http://www.blogger.com/worldwidelocallive.com">WorldWidelocallive.com</a>. He's having a special guest this week, the founder of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/mojofiti.com">Mojofiti.com</a>, a website that translates your blog into your choice of 20 different languages on the spot. So cool!</div><div>We are so proud of Jon and all the hard work he is putting into supporting his family. Keep up the awesome work, hon! We love you!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-51767073196152556422010-02-22T13:08:00.000-08:002010-02-22T13:24:27.020-08:00School Lunch ProjectI thought I'd pass along an interesting blog that I'm following, <a href="http://fedupwithschoollunch.blogspot.com/">Fed Up With School Lunch</a> where one school employee dines & photographs what she is eating in the school cafeteria. Its very interesting to see. Frankly, I don't remember school lunches being that good to begin with, but it appears they've gotten worse and many schools are feeding our kids items that are packaged in plastic wrap. Thats a lot of waste, folks! <div><br /></div><div>At some point in high school, the school I attended had a salad bar. As a vegetarian, that was a welcome option to having to pack a lunch every day. By the time my Sister entered the same high school, the salad bar had disappeared and a malt machine was in its place. Does anyone else see a problem with that? Its my understanding that the malt machine is now gone, but still leaves me with the question "What are we feeding our kids?"</div><div><br /></div><div>I admit, I am not perfect when it comes to food. I eat too much and enjoy cheese & chocolate way too much. I like to think that despite my downfalls, that I'm ahead of the game, as the foods I am generally eating are real food. Meaning, I know whats in my food, very little is processed (besides tortilla chips, another downfall), generally homemade, and fresh whenever possible. We avoid HFCS whenever we can. Yes we do have the occasional soda, usually when we are sick, mixing a drink, or dining on Mexican food in a restaurant (for some reason cherry cola tastes good with refried beans), but for the most part aim for healthy options.</div><div><br /></div><div>While there is an upswing in people interested in whole foods, I think we will continue to rely on quick cheap crap as long as we are not connecting the dots to where food comes from. I'll admit, until last year, I had never seen how big a cauliflower and broccoli plant actually gets! Although I already had an appreciation for those foods, it has grown immensely be seeing them grow. More education, more time outdoors, and simple cooking lessons are all great ways to start eating healthier.</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-78854453581182890182010-02-22T12:42:00.000-08:002010-02-22T19:16:35.113-08:00Menu Plan MondayHere is my menu for the week. I usually start with Sunday, as its just easier that way. :)<div>Also check out other weekly menu planners <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2010/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-22nd.html">here</a>.<br /><div><br /></div><div>Sunday: Homemade enchiladas using a locally made enchilada sauce (anyone have a good <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>recipe for enchilada sauce they would like to share?)</div><div>Monday: Make your own, aka Mom has plans :) Probably grilled cheese sandwiches as back-up</div><div>Tuesday: Homemade pizza w/roasted carrots & onions, baked pears</div><div>Wednesday: Spinach stuffed pasta shells, grapes</div><div>Thursday: Peanut lime soup (new recipe found in kids recipe book at the library. Of course, I'm <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> adding the lime bit!) and homemade bread</div><div>Friday: Leftovers</div><div>Saturday: Homemade <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Homemade-Black-Bean-Veggie-Burgers/Detail.aspx">black bean burgers</a>/ Jon will have something with sausage in it, steamed <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span> broccoli with lemon.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-29891510102734632712010-02-18T11:34:00.000-08:002010-02-18T11:38:33.139-08:00Thankful ThursdayFeeling a little burnt out today so I thought it would be helpful to do my Thankful Thursday post (thank goodness its Thursday, right?)<div><br /></div><div>Thankful that my child is currently being quiet and reading in bed. :)</div><div>Thankful about an exciting opportunity for Jon that I can't quiet talk about yet (coming soon)</div><div>Thankful that I have awesome friends in my life</div><div>Thankful for the opportunity to get away with my hubby on Valentine's day (I seriously love the rings we made.)</div><div>Thankful for a fun filled weekend, ahead</div><div>Thankful that I have a massage in the near future </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-34558059312863320502010-02-17T12:52:00.000-08:002010-02-17T13:07:20.975-08:00Hello!Its been almost a month since I've blogged. We've been pretty busy in the Thompson household. Jon's last day at work was on January 31st. He has been working hard at getting his Macintosh computer consulting company back off the ground. He has some great leads and we feel very positive about the changes around us. He also headed off to California last week to attend the Mac World Expo. He has been wanting to go for years, and when a friend of his offered up a free ticket to the conference, how could he say no? This was the first time Jon has left for any extended time since Sydney has been born. It was quiet an interesting experience being a single Mom for a week. This is Jon's second trip to California since we've been together. I told him that the next time he visits, I will be coming along. Third time's a charm, right? <div>Sydney continues to grow and thrive. Just the other day she was running around the house singing one of her made up songs. Upon listening closer, I found out she was spelling her name! I didn't think she'd be able to spell her name before using the potty! :) Sydney also has been enjoying swimming lessons and hanging out with her buddy, Anderson. One of their favorite things to do is play "coffee shop" or pretend to give each other haircuts with the trains & train tracks!</div><div>Jon & I usually stay home for Valentine's day. However, we bucked our trend and did a wine & design experience this year. We went to an artist's studio with 4 other couples and learned how to make silver rings. Thats right, on Valentine's day, we got to hammer, stamp, file, saw, torch and scrub to make beautiful rings. After making the rings, all of the couples got to go a local winery for a private tasting. We really enjoyed the much needed couples day out.</div><div>I have recently been introduced to a fabulous group of ladies who are very much into holistic healing. Because of them, I have had the opportunity to get regular massages and have even tried a reiki treatment. </div><div>We are finding that our life is becoming richer every day as we allow new experiences to come in. Best wishes to you all.</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-13351474650323934512010-01-18T05:55:00.000-08:002010-01-18T06:05:26.475-08:00Menu Plan MondaySunday: Pepper & garlic pasta<div>Monday: Ham steak (Jon), loaded baked potatoes, salad topped w/cranberries & almonds</div><div>Tuesday: Grilled paninis, spinach salad</div><div>Wednesday: Fix your own</div><div>Thursday: Chili (me)/ chicken tortilla soup (Jon)</div><div>Friday: Homemade whole wheat pizza w/lemon broccoli & cauliflower </div><div>Saturday: Veggie quesadillas, beans, & homemade guacamole </div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-9622621123205206792010-01-16T19:59:00.001-08:002010-01-16T20:09:30.844-08:00Jon is famous!Ok, maybe not famous, but he's in the news in a good way. He was featured in the Des Moines Register's Juice in the <a href="http://dmjuice.desmoinesregister.com/article/20100112/JUICE03/1130313/Get+To+Know++Jon+Thompson++32">Get to Know Section</a>. Jon is getting laid off at the end of this month and is working his little tail off to get his Macintosh IT Consulting business up off the ground again. He is working on some awesome projects and will be doing some amazing things. Jon had an amazing opportunity at the Great Ape Trust and did things that people can't even dream of. Personally, I know I have learned a ton about Apes and their culture. I am very thankful that he had the opportunities he had at the Trust and am looking forward to seeing what new opportunities come his (our) way.<div><br /></div><div>Here is Jon's company <a href="http://dmevolve.com/">Blog</a>, to keep tabs on computer stuff.</div><div><br /></div><div>Keep up the awesome work, hon. We love you & are so proud of you!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-9318026702806630212010-01-04T17:23:00.000-08:002010-01-04T17:30:47.177-08:00Awesome simple dishWe made a very simple dish for supper tonight that was fabulous. I think it will be a regular on our menu:<div><br /></div><div>Lemon rice with veggies:</div><div>2 carrots</div><div>2 ribs of celery</div><div>1/2 onion</div><div>1/2 bell pepper</div><div>2 cloves garlic, crushed</div><div>sea salt</div><div>fresh crushed pepper</div><div>1/2 lemon</div><div>basmati & wild grain rice mix</div><div><br /></div><div>Cook rice according to directions. I took half of the rice and left the other half for Jon to cook the same dish that included chicken (he loved his version, too.)</div><div>In a saute pan, heat a couple of tbsp of olive oil and add carrots, after a few minutes add the rest of the veggies & spices to taste. Once rice is ready, add it to the saute pan, add a little more salt & pepper as well as lemon juice and saute for a minute or three.</div><div>Serve with a lemon wedge & enjoy!</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-34549157319367490702010-01-03T19:58:00.001-08:002010-01-03T20:16:03.646-08:00Menu Plan MondayOk, its not Monday, which means I'm actually planning our weekly menu early (gasp!) We didn't eat everything on the list last week, so its on again for this week:<div><br /></div><div>Sunday: Sundried tomato pesto pasta, homemade whole wheat bread with olive oil & fresh <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>cracked pepper, sugar snap peas</div><div>Monday: Basmati & wild rice stir fry with veggies for me (peppers, onions, carrots) & chicken <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>for Jon.</div><div>Tuesday: Enchiladas</div><div>Wednesday: Homemade pizza & mixed veggies</div><div>Thursday: Leftovers</div><div>Friday: Soup of choice, homemade bread, orange</div><div>Saturday: Homemade paninis </div><div><br /></div><div>Lunches for Sydney & I will consist of something like:</div><div>bean & veggie burrios</div><div>hummus & veggie wraps</div><div><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/danny-boome/mashed-butternut-squash-and-pears-recipe/index.html">Mashed butternut squash w/pears</a> </div><div>Cheese ravioli </div><div>homemade chili or lentil soup</div><div><br /><div><div><br /></div></div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-25647712218049295082009-12-31T16:09:00.000-08:002009-12-31T16:13:26.778-08:00Thankful ThreeToday I am thankful for:<div><br /><div>1. Living in a neighborhood I adore</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Getting to start a new year</div><div><br /></div><div>3. My daughter, when she woke up this morning and saw the shimmer lights I had put in my hair the night before (think of tinsel tied to your hair, its so fun!). Her eyes got really big and wide and said "Mommy has glitter in her hair." Too cute!</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, I am thankful for great family and friends, as well. May you have a wonderful evening to lead you into an even better New Year. Cheers!</div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-27047376108112850552009-12-28T08:13:00.000-08:002009-12-28T08:20:14.109-08:00Menu Plan MondaySunday: Chicken/Bean Tacos and Spanish Rice<div>Monday: 15 year class reunion supper (really? Yikes!!)</div><div>Tuesday: Pesto pasta & mixed veggies </div><div>Wednesday: sausage/bean & veggie enchiladas</div><div>Thursday: Indian </div><div>Friday: leftovers/appetizers</div><div>Saturday: tortilla soup</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5877003872955929671.post-13414766394433731552009-12-26T17:46:00.000-08:002009-12-26T17:53:02.368-08:00Merry Christmas!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTN9nmt3h2Fq8C-mR-DdPTMSXC4axYWIrTHJpLGTWO-Ie_HV5ohQvLzLhFMxt49Hrz13wAT5rp3wua9fFIx4hYvADo-P9aSopg3WtU0Tek0N_8LBrOx9t56TBMlYyFDQOd7Pss5oz4Paru/s1600-h/DSC05479_3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTN9nmt3h2Fq8C-mR-DdPTMSXC4axYWIrTHJpLGTWO-Ie_HV5ohQvLzLhFMxt49Hrz13wAT5rp3wua9fFIx4hYvADo-P9aSopg3WtU0Tek0N_8LBrOx9t56TBMlYyFDQOd7Pss5oz4Paru/s320/DSC05479_3.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419727966744377794" /></a><br /><div><br /></div>I have been having a bit of writers block lately. When all of the happenings around us, on top of Christmas, then my computer died. We had a wonderful Christmas and our house is slowly recovering. On my agenda next week is to take down the Christmas tree, move the train table Syd got for Christmas, and go through Sydney's toys. I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas and are headed off to a great New Year!<div><br /><div>Blessings,</div><div><br /></div><div>Sandy</div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15660037355338777898noreply@blogger.com1