tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33066289533683055712024-03-05T11:01:59.568-06:00 We Have It Together"We may not have it all together, but together we have it all."
Life with friends, family, and followers is an exquisite journey!! We can experience life together and I will share my love of fashion, travel, decorating and cooking. We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-77034092461537402862017-10-15T15:54:00.000-05:002017-10-15T15:54:00.393-05:00Baby It's Cold Outside!Pot Roast<br />
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The weather here is turning a bit chilly. It was cool and rainy this morning when I got up, so I decided to put a pot roast in the crock pot for dinner this evening. I saw the recipe on Facebook and it only called for a few ingredients. That's my kind of recipe!<br />
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Assemble ingredients:<br />
3 pound chuck roast<br />
1 envelope dry Italian dressing mix<br />
1 envelope dry ranch dressing mix<br />
1 envelope dry gravy mix<br />
2 cups water, but I used beef stock<br />
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Brown the roast in a skillet with salt and pepper until a crust develops. It creates a yummy taste when it's browned first.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Mix the 2 cups of liquid with all three envelopes of dry seasoning packets. </span></div>
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Place the browned meat in the crock pot and then pour liquid over it. Cover and cook on high for 6 hours. Cut and enjoy!<br />
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I will definitely make this recipe again. It was so flavorful and well seasoned. It stayed moist and fell apart when I sliced it. Yum! I served it with mashed potatoes and salad. It was a rib sticking meal that pleased my family. John will also enjoy this meat on a roll for a quick dinner when we are busy and unable to cook a proper meal this coming week. I think I will double the meat next time because 3 pounds is not enough even for our small family. I also like to take our leftovers to work for lunch, so I will buy six pounds of chuck roast next time. I probably won't have to double the liquid because there was plenty. My crock pot is 25 years old, but is quite large and can handle as much meat as I want to cook.We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-29044083700917882042017-09-10T21:36:00.000-05:002017-09-11T17:12:17.082-05:00No Sugar Update and Other StuffHi All,<br />
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I just wanted to touch base and tell you how the "no sugar" lifestyle is going. I'm not going to say it has been easy or that I am doing things perfectly, but I am monitoring myself more and I feel better already. It isn't as hard for me to give up bread carbs as it is to go without sugar. I don't know why that is, but I think they call it addiction for a reason. It is hard to give up sugar! Anyway, I find that I am relying on natural sugars from fruits and veggies to tame my cravings. I did address that in my previous post and I decided to do fruits in moderation, and not cut them out altogether. Any hoo, Audra and I did a quick stop at Target today to get her snacks for the week. These are a couple of items she picked up and I think they signify that autumn is in the air!!<br />
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<span id="goog_1057998145"></span>On the other hand, I will not be indulging in the deliciousness of fall. I am going to give you an awesome recipe that I made this evening. Don't judge it until you try it. I made this up and my family loves it! Audra had already eaten a complete dinner when I pulled this out of the oven. She ate again. I don't know where the girl puts all the food.<br />
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Assemble the ingredients:</div>
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Half of a package of Lipton Onion Soup Mix (dry)</div>
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1 8oz can of crushed pineapple with juice drained</div>
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1 splash soy sauce (told you I made it up)</div>
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1 pkg Jennie-O Ground Turkey Breast</div>
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1/2 white onion diced</div>
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1 Log Fresh Mozzarella (this one had some kind of spices and oil packed in it)</div>
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2 slices white bread soaked in a couple tablespoons milk (I used gluten free, but you don't have to)</div>
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1 Pkg large mushroom caps (2 per package)</div>
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** I only bought one package of mushroom caps because I figured Audra would want hers on a bun or bread. I was wrong, she ate the mushroom one. She commented that she doesn't even like mushrooms and it was delicious. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I mixed all the ingredients in a bowl, leaving the mozzarella out so I could top the meat with it later and melt it. If you chunked it and put it in the meat, it would be delicious too.</span></div>
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Then form into meatloaf, burgers and/or top mushroom caps.<br />
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Bake 350 degrees for 20 minutes, then I topped with a red bell pepper that I wanted to use up and cheese. Let it melt for another 5-7 minutes. I couldn't get them to stop eating the meat. I really wanted to save it for leftovers because we have a busy week coming up. I think I will name the meal "Hawaiian Turkey Burgers." <br />
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I also made roasted sweet potatoes and carrots and steamed some broccoli. Here are my lunches for the week and Audra's dinner for tomorrow night. Voila!! Yum!!<br />
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Here is a shout out to all of our friends in Florida. I know they are getting hit with the hurricane as I type this post and am thankful to hear that Irma may be losing some of her punch. Let's keep praying for Florida and our friends in Mexico who withstood a devastating earthquake this week. <br />
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Have a great week. Let's try to have a complete week without a major weather event!!<br />
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-44139650169330982482017-09-04T17:20:00.003-05:002017-09-04T17:20:26.458-05:00Blame It On the EclipseHi All,<br />
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Sadly the devastation of Hurricane Harvey has impacted areas from Galveston to Houston. Dallas is 250 to 300 miles north of the Houston area, so our weather was not impacted by the storm. We got some rain last weekend, but that has been typical this summer. The rainfall in our area is up, but we are not in danger of flooding, thankfully. Donations to benefit storm victims can be made through reputable organizations such as Red Cross and Walmart. We received a donation bag in the mail to give used household items for the cause and our school district is collecting items as well. The Dallas area is a safe haven for some of the Houstonians fleeing the devastation. We will see more people moving into the area soon because Houston is mandatorily evacuating the flood areas and cutting electrical power, making it impossible for homeowners to stay. Keep Harvey victims in your prayers.<br />
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Did you see the eclipse? I am blaming all of the crazy weather (and a lot of other weird things) on the eclipse. I wonder if it is a real phenomenon to have a hurricane, or significant weather event, after a lunar eclipse. The internet says there should be no noticeable weather impact on earth, but areas that have the total eclipse may notice a slight weather impact. No examples were sited, but it seems a little more than coincidental that a category 4 hurricane hits the coast immediately following an eclipse. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like father, like daughter. Isn't my dad adorable!!!</td></tr>
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I saw this funny quote from Facebook the other day, and it really resonated with me. <br />
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Now you can add the "threat" of a gas shortage to the list too! It's been impossible to find gas stations with gas, so I have resorted to using the app called "Gas Buddy." It shows gas stations in your zip code that are stocked. You just need to pray that they don't run out before you get there. It took us 45 minutes to actually get to the pump after finding a station with gas. The media and transportation commissioner assure us that there is not a gas shortage. There has been a slight panic of a shortage, so everyone is demanding gas at the same time, causing gas to run dry. It's been crazy around here!!!<br />
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My car, a 2012 Buick Enclave, has been having mechanical problems for a while. Motor mount problems have plagued the car causing a clunking noise in the front end. The problem is that two motor mounts, which appear to be the screws holding the motor in place, failed and were replaced. Then I noticed the clunking again and, low and behold, the other mounts gave way!! Then the air conditioning stopped working. It was blowing hot air. Here in Texas, that is a really bad thing. It was quickly fixed, but within a couple of months, it was blowing hot air again. Well, it turns out to be another problem with the air handler. Big Tex decided to buy the expensive extended warranty, to the tune of $2,500, to cover the cost of repairs for the next five years. When I picked up the car from the service department this week, the clerk cheerfully said that the cost of the repair was $1,100, but my cost was only the $100 deductible. I am usually courteous to people, but I embarrassed my daughter and made a comment about the quality of the Buick product. Maybe we expect a lot from our cars, but I feel like a four year old car should be in good working condition. <br />
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The air conditioning in the house failed downstairs recently, the refrigerator in the garage, and the clothes dryer all broke this week as well. I was driving John's car over the weekend and the vent was blowing hot air. I texted him to let him know something was going on. I told him I would try not to break anything else until he got home.<br />
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We decided not to replace the garage refrigerator right now. The unfortunate thing about that failure was that we lost a bunch of food I had just bought at Cosco. Sadly, the milk and all of the overflow items I store out there were lost. I also need to be conscious not to overbuy at the store now because we have limited space in the inside fridge.<br />
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I bought a Samsung dryer to replace the broken one. I have never owned a Samsung appliance and have read awesome reviews online about the model I bought. I really wanted a matching LG dryer to the washer we have, but the reviews weren't great for that model. The worst was the claim that the machine had something inside that would tear clothes. This happened in another machine we had, so I steered clear of that whole mess.<br />
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Happy Labor Day!! Stay tuned for my second installment of the home tour and a post about what I did over the long weekend while the rest of the family was in Chicago. <br />
<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-35834030619759993752017-08-29T20:17:00.003-05:002017-08-31T20:52:08.698-05:00No More Sugar<br />
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Funny I would write this post is on the heels of my Puppy Chow post, but I am ridding myself of sugar starting today. Sugar is counterproductive for digestion and overall health. I have been a "sugar addict" most of my life and have known for a while that I need to detox. My motivation is to decrease inflammation, balance digestion and regain energy levels. I had a great summer, but am paying the price for overindulgence. Lately I have let bad habits creep into my routine by overindulging in dessert, cookies and candy. I am eating something sweet after every meal! <br />
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Eliminating sugar and processed foods is considered a low-carb diet. I envied people who could eliminate one thing, like soda, and transform their whole metabolism. I always considered myself a healthy eater, so I never thought I had anything to cut out. Now I realize I do have one thing needing to be eliminated. Sugar!! It's time to "get real" and face the fact that sugar is not my friend. <br />
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I am a faithful goal setter and have been making a bunch of professional goals for myself and my students. So, I need to make some health goals too! I've broken down my goal into some manageable steps that are outlined below. You can click on the links if you want to get more information about fiber and healthy fats. An undertaking like this is not just about elimination of sugar, but finding replacement foods to keep me satisfied. Developing replacement behaviors will ensure habits will be changed with long term success.<br />
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<ol style="background-color: #fefefe; box-sizing: inherit; line-height: 1.6; list-style-position: outside; margin: 0px 0px 1rem 1.25rem; padding: 0px;">
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit;"><a href="https://draxe.com/high-fiber-diet/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3); background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Eat more fiber</a></span>.</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Include more protein.</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Eat more <span style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit;"><a href="https://draxe.com/healthy-fats/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3); background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">healthy fats</a></span>.</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Add fermented foods to diet daily. These foods aid in digestion and have detoxifying properties that can help heal the gut.</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Read ingredient labels carefully when grocery shopping. (Sugar is hard to identify on the ingredient labels because it can have up to 60 alternate names.) </span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Meal prep on Sunday for a successful week. I will post weekly meal plans to share my week ahead. </span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sweat every day.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> I plan on take some help from other bloggers who have already done all the hard work of testing the recipes and planning balanced sugar free menus</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">. I'm not too proud to take help from others. Most of my recipes will come from </span><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/recipes/breakfast-brunch/" style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;" target="_blank">Skinny Taste</a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> because these recipes are easy and don't have a lot of ingredients. All of the recipes I selected for week 1 are low carb and can be prepared in 30 minutes or less. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> I anticipate that breakfast is going to be a hard meal for me to prepare. I usually don't pre-plan breakfast. I buy a couple boxes of cereal and grab whatever appeals to me in the moment. Incorporating more protein and healthy fats into my breakfast meal will be a huge challenge and will force me to get creative. I usually take left over dinner to work for lunch the next day. Provided I make dinners that follows the plan, then lunch should be a cinch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Consuming more fermented foods will be unusual for me because I hate, hate, hate anything sour tasting. As luck would have it, Costco is carrying a new product called Kombucha Fermented Tea that packs a punch of fermentation in a small shot. It will be easy to drink a couple of times a day if I can get beyond the weird taste. It is also naturally sparkling due to the fermentation process that it goes through. I tried a sample and it reminded me of taking a shot of cider vinegar, which I have heard also has amazing health benefits. I need to look into the sugar content on this product before I commit. Other sources of fermentation are tempeh, miso, sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir and kombucha. I do take probiotics and digestive enzymes daily and I love these products I have delivered from Plexus. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> I am defining the kind of sugar I am eliminating because this will keep me accountable. For the next 30 days, I will eliminate refined sugar, the white stuff, and will avoid processed foods containing the refined stuff (including corn syrup and anything in that category). I will allow some natural carbs like fruit, honey, stevia and agave in moderation. A friend sweetens her coffee with honey. I think I will give that a try. I want to ultimately develop a pallet that tastes the natural sweetness in things like almonds. The only way I have accomplished this in the past is to not eat anything super sweet for a little while, even if it is natural. Bottom line, I don't want to overindulge in anything sweet tasting so I can recalibrate my taste buds. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> This is my meal plan for the coming week. I am making extra protein with dinner meals to have left overs for lunch. I am making a double recipe of the Chipotle Chicken meal, so we can have it one other night over a salad or wrapped in tortillas. These three breakfast meals will be repeated all week for ease and convenience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Breakfast</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/berry-quinoa-breakfast-bowls/" target="_blank">Breakfast Quinoa Bowl</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/avocado-toast-egg-in-hole/" target="_blank">Avocado Toast</a><br />
Hard boiled Eggs with Turkey Breakfast Sausage<br />
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Lunch<br />
I will take leftovers from dinner the night before most days.<br />
I also bought a 1/2 pound of deli turkey meat and will make meat and cheese<br />
rollups for snacks and lunch if I get bored with leftovers.<br />
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Dinner</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/garlic-shrimp-in-coconut-milk-tomatoes/" target="_blank">Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/main-ingredient/chicken-recipes/" target="_blank">Chipotle Chicken Bowls</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/chunky-beef-cabbage-and-tomato-soup-instant-pot/" target="_blank">Beef and Cabbage Soup</a></span><br />
Grilled Salmon with Veggies<br />
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Wish me luck! I would love to hear your comments and please post links to your favorite sugar free recipes.<br />
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We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-65459225692895888572017-08-22T19:59:00.003-05:002017-08-22T20:01:01.897-05:00Back To School.....For MeHello All,<br />
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I teach students with dyslexia to read in an awesome school district here in Texas. The school, the teachers, and the district have spent a week casting the vision for the coming school year and it promises to be exceptional. Below you will see the tee shirts that reflect this vision.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6YxuCnllcQSqi7vGNxxqrc0fK150jhkyfPd96VY05uuNgTQRatllaYNELFvgBiVTakEm-92q-EcJVk9CJc3q8-d9aLjVGJSj_nS5mYoO87WuK_UA0wu_NTTldBO2bVOMU1yfL_sKoig/s1600/100percent.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6YxuCnllcQSqi7vGNxxqrc0fK150jhkyfPd96VY05uuNgTQRatllaYNELFvgBiVTakEm-92q-EcJVk9CJc3q8-d9aLjVGJSj_nS5mYoO87WuK_UA0wu_NTTldBO2bVOMU1yfL_sKoig/s640/100percent.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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This is the district shirt - 100%-All Means All - This is the continuation of our "One Vision" transformation journey that began last year. All educators are encouraged to stay on the path and continue to transform and improve the district one student at a time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwARr770g14KnQgZ2EQiPdP_mrVZZyuSuxuqc4QMxDMu0X__gspWcclCByNYoE9JS78Be87RgUFOzjUyrMho_LL3JIDpmtJtMaXiqZPdEs0Gg0455rzSN59wDGnXsIJQfkl0G5WrQ-TIc/s1600/1in5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="237" data-original-width="178" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwARr770g14KnQgZ2EQiPdP_mrVZZyuSuxuqc4QMxDMu0X__gspWcclCByNYoE9JS78Be87RgUFOzjUyrMho_LL3JIDpmtJtMaXiqZPdEs0Gg0455rzSN59wDGnXsIJQfkl0G5WrQ-TIc/s640/1in5.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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This one says "1 in 5 Students Depend on Me." I am passionate about identifying and teaching students with dyslexia and providing remediation that will pave the way for a lifetime of success. Struggling readers need support and often have feelings of uncertainty and low self-esteem. The alarmingly high incidence of dyslexia surprised me. I had no idea that 20 percent of our population had some level of Dyslexia. That's a huge number and answered a lot of nagging questions about why some students were lagging behind in language acquisition and reading.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnY8K0aqoitHyOPrWbcQ1-S7tSIPgFmHnEh76azNesfFjyxkMTXwuWtWuRzTFvTmjvvAHnJCHsZNyzydMpUMrACOsnUswQ01rXkLyFMHpbx-OQctKtxgj_VIsnIta38oHkLhvRHFj7ow/s1600/dover.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnY8K0aqoitHyOPrWbcQ1-S7tSIPgFmHnEh76azNesfFjyxkMTXwuWtWuRzTFvTmjvvAHnJCHsZNyzydMpUMrACOsnUswQ01rXkLyFMHpbx-OQctKtxgj_VIsnIta38oHkLhvRHFj7ow/s640/dover.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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This hashtag is on the back of our school shirt this year. It is a reminder for us to make the learning experience accessible to all students. I especially believe that if they don't learn the way we teach, then we need to teach the way they learn. I am proud that our MTA curriculum is multi-sensory and inherently engaging. I still remind myself every day to develop lessons that students will enjoy by taking into consideration their specific interests and learning styles. The best part of my job is developing the personal relationships with the kiddos and watching them grow!!<br />
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On a different subject, I made some puppy chow with my kids on Friday night and decided to blog about it for a couple of reasons. The recipes fit into the "Back to School" theme because I love giving treats like this to my teammates or sending baggies to school with my kids in their lunches. The two flavors we made were Caramel Churro and Lemon White Chocolate Puppy Chow. <br />
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Carmel Churro Mix<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 1.5em; list-style: none; margin: 1em; padding: 0px 0px 0px 2.4em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">4 1/2 cups Rice Chexâ„¢ cereal</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">4 1/2 cups Corn Chexâ„¢ cereal</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1cup packed brown sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1/4 up light corn syrup</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1/4 teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2/3 cup granulated sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2 teaspoons ground cinnamon</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Instructions</span><br />
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Assemble Ingredients</span><br />
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Preheat oven to 350. Place cereal in a large, heat safe bowl. Line a large baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick baking spray.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "pt sans";"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar and set aside. i</span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">n a heavy saucepan over medium heat, bring the brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup mixture to a boil. Let boil for one minute, stirring constantly, then remove from heat and stir in baking soda. We didn't have any baking soda, and it still turned out amazing.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYr8fkfub_a_VKN2Zh6kfSwWHzpbwn_t4xFXULciHp1KIwlzM1LMWf6aD69vd9B-7M_3jFVcaxis-7Q8uboqj35qpv0yFCDX1wCT_-AYtGBjm3kSVWGC264upnQ09MmqHWEx9_5XdNDm8/s1600/churro1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYr8fkfub_a_VKN2Zh6kfSwWHzpbwn_t4xFXULciHp1KIwlzM1LMWf6aD69vd9B-7M_3jFVcaxis-7Q8uboqj35qpv0yFCDX1wCT_-AYtGBjm3kSVWGC264upnQ09MmqHWEx9_5XdNDm8/s640/churro1.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "pt sans";"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pour over cereal and stir until cereal is coated.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "pt sans";"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Spread cereal on prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle evenly with cinnamon/sugar mixture. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "pt sans";"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Bake for about 5 minutes, then flip with a spatula and bake for 3 more minutes, until cereal turns golden brown.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "pt sans";"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "pt sans";"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Remove from oven and let cool completely, then break up and store in an airtight container. Or eat it right now because it was yummy warm. Look at them!</span></span><br />
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Blueberry Lemon White Chocolate Puppy Chow</div>
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<li class="p-ingredient" style="list-style-type: square; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 box Chexâ„¢ blueberry flavored cereal</span></li>
<li class="p-ingredient" style="list-style-type: square; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 1/4 cups white vanilla baking chip</span></li>
<li class="p-ingredient" style="list-style-type: square; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1/4 cup butter</span></li>
<li class="p-ingredient" style="list-style-type: square; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">4 teaspoons grated lemon peel</span></li>
<li class="p-ingredient" style="list-style-type: square; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (I'm told fresh lemon juice is better than the bottled kind.)</span></li>
<li class="p-ingredient" style="list-style-type: square; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2 cups powered sugar</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Assemble Ingredients </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykv59AN2soxFcak67Wurmd-_LyOCYNuGuhSTAlcZOe8DY0NDTSoxr54fuPe_GJCSj_Hp2LqaGi7ZTX5y-PnLmKmZQpfaMEthmItJHiXurRT2DHW7ZBqfPZO9KyIEOTZJ48sF2Rv6Bg1M/s1600/lbpc2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykv59AN2soxFcak67Wurmd-_LyOCYNuGuhSTAlcZOe8DY0NDTSoxr54fuPe_GJCSj_Hp2LqaGi7ZTX5y-PnLmKmZQpfaMEthmItJHiXurRT2DHW7ZBqfPZO9KyIEOTZJ48sF2Rv6Bg1M/s640/lbpc2.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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Measure out cereal and put in bowl. The kids didn't get the right cereal, so ours was white chocolate and lemon without the blueberry.</h3>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In small microwavable bowl, microwave baking chips, butter, lemon peel and lemon juice uncovered on "high" 1 minute 30 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth. Pour lemon mixture over cereal; stir until evenly coated.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dbCc_u9cucTKQlH6grgDohyphenhyphen5OQxGsoHZQFn1HLPZDDd1ou5t7Y87sJuFf92GeSwvbWDKJ38No9GMgwEqauwhMIDDKsUf7TlzYW69gkvunDy5M-cEGnG7GlzIh9SebEyJ7TAv4ds69jY/s1600/lbpc1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dbCc_u9cucTKQlH6grgDohyphenhyphen5OQxGsoHZQFn1HLPZDDd1ou5t7Y87sJuFf92GeSwvbWDKJ38No9GMgwEqauwhMIDDKsUf7TlzYW69gkvunDy5M-cEGnG7GlzIh9SebEyJ7TAv4ds69jY/s640/lbpc1.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqQkgOES2AAvim93iAvBD-Jria7OsQ2ddeyyQbpVr2JrmIs9BLhFeIqJkHP6wa7J3XcoyRYn4ezybAz-lfAUeSJKkfjAp9ygbvM2IY1AQew05tRNKjwYiOskRwgeII5lAwy2Gyd0mXZk/s1600/lbpc5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqQkgOES2AAvim93iAvBD-Jria7OsQ2ddeyyQbpVr2JrmIs9BLhFeIqJkHP6wa7J3XcoyRYn4ezybAz-lfAUeSJKkfjAp9ygbvM2IY1AQew05tRNKjwYiOskRwgeII5lAwy2Gyd0mXZk/s1600/lbpc5.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once coated, pour cereal mixture into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; gently shake until well coated. Spread evenly on parchment paper or waxed paper. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Store in airtight container.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKBV1TgvqV7WccjOG6Fe1y8CreZ_VLj5KEqMn0ta4WTFDuKt5EOygU9Iouz_1o-2uuwi4itx0Vh10PBo6nbvO1EPc6Ty8uFzh1RS9jZw9TlFLo24fjYYK931G9Hke97BJbKJtGLA9qPA/s1600/lbpc6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKBV1TgvqV7WccjOG6Fe1y8CreZ_VLj5KEqMn0ta4WTFDuKt5EOygU9Iouz_1o-2uuwi4itx0Vh10PBo6nbvO1EPc6Ty8uFzh1RS9jZw9TlFLo24fjYYK931G9Hke97BJbKJtGLA9qPA/s640/lbpc6.JPG" width="478" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Amanda is always happy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">I'm told these snacks are gluten free. That opens up a whole lot of possibilities for some of you. Enjoy!!</span><br />
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We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-35510778828669541112017-08-12T20:16:00.000-05:002017-08-12T20:16:33.290-05:00Movies I Recommend I have had the opportunity to fly this summer and randomly came across a couple of really good movies that I want to share with you. <br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Hello, My Name is Doris (R)</span></u></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> Audra told me about the first movie called, "Hello, My Name Is Doris." I was a little alarmed because it was rated R, so I decided to watched it. It was a heartwarming, funny movie and I recommend you watch it as a family, especially if you have teenagers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> Sally Fields plays an adorable, middle aged woman who decides to romantically pursue a much younger co-worker. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">The Doris character is so likable, with her eclectic appearance and quirky personality. I loved her willingness to take a risk, even though most of her life was dedicated to caring for her aging mother, who incidentally had hoarding tendencies that now plague Doris. It has a great ensemble cast and didn't have any of the trappings of a dark comedy. I laughed and I cried, but the movie spoke to my heart because it taught that we should all embrace differences in each other and celebrate them.</span></span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The Last Word</span></u></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">A retired businesswoman wants to control everything around her, including her own obituary, so she writes her own to ensure her life story is told her way. A young writer at the local newspaper takes on the challenge of finding out the truth. Shirley MacLaine plays Harriette Lauler, the controlling and very lonely former business executive. Amanda Seyfried plays the newspaper reporter, hired by Lauler, to publish a flattering obituary. When looking at the elements of a good life, and ultimately a great tribute, many commonalities surface that send Lauler into scary and unchartered directions in her life. Thus, Lauler and her newspaper protege embark on a journey that is heartwarming, funny and very therapeutic. A feel good movie that you shouldn't miss. </span></span></div>
We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-15705706457636823692017-08-11T22:34:00.001-05:002017-08-13T06:39:16.493-05:00Home Tour Part 1Hi All, <br />
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We are safely back in Plano and it is good to be home. My sweet mother in law always said that there is a problem if you aren't happy to return home after a trip. I agree with that statement!!<br />
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I am starting the home tour, but let me first say that I am not a decorator and I decorate my house to appeal to me. I don't even have a name for my style. I like traditional pieces that withstand time, but then sometimes I add abstract art with a pop of color. I move furniture and accessories around a lot to see how it feels. My decorating philosophy is to buy new pieces when I know they will get a lot of use. Items such as sofas, chairs and every day pieces like the kitchen table, I usually buy new. The other stuff is usually thrifted or handed down from family. I have tons of DIY projects in my head and will discuss these with you as you see part 1 of the tour.<br />
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Tex gets very nervous when things get moved around. He can't understand why I have a need to change things all of the time. I get bored I guess. He's a good sport, but once in a while, he will come unglued about the house stuff. It usually happens when there is too much clutter, or what he considers clutter. I call it highly accessorized!<br />
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Come on in!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdf4NRfudzcFVQAU12P1jcwbb6YwDZo_jKD8DE_RkLdEhHXBTgEmO1Lu2lk5n8sJZBSTrpwBKEgscnRMXwIQAts4Fdumkr3DNSxCZ_nPzTjmBcMTsFzLZ-J5BfjHz5qiT4D_BlRq6xq4/s1600/2017-08-09+13.09.56+HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdf4NRfudzcFVQAU12P1jcwbb6YwDZo_jKD8DE_RkLdEhHXBTgEmO1Lu2lk5n8sJZBSTrpwBKEgscnRMXwIQAts4Fdumkr3DNSxCZ_nPzTjmBcMTsFzLZ-J5BfjHz5qiT4D_BlRq6xq4/s640/2017-08-09+13.09.56+HDR.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The hubby gets an award for the greenest yard. Just kidding, everyone has a green yard because it has been raining all summer!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpmGVMvwyHoT6icKj7vbWUaMbEVMJyrlmM4dPk-6Thl6zLsSISzxtpwWqvUhrucnfFiXx8rBL3EFPKh75l5WhF2l2DdQmzGnlAj4Hz_5k7rO2YyqmEl-8kzw5PWKv6tF5uFFNotYfNAU/s1600/2017-08-09+13.10.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpmGVMvwyHoT6icKj7vbWUaMbEVMJyrlmM4dPk-6Thl6zLsSISzxtpwWqvUhrucnfFiXx8rBL3EFPKh75l5WhF2l2DdQmzGnlAj4Hz_5k7rO2YyqmEl-8kzw5PWKv6tF5uFFNotYfNAU/s640/2017-08-09+13.10.45.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the view when entering from the front door. The dining room is</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGh2O6lvfN87B3lwzPxHQyrBdG8taKNGHCpqAljt2nLhWrtCg7DiaoJ5o_zDpRf2-gqOVpdqGGTPwkf_OrXz429-7ypg_nItrt4WSs8rADYyMrIpLKHT-97-HUG0HcHXP-VRaDYDNspqc/s1600/IMG_0186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGh2O6lvfN87B3lwzPxHQyrBdG8taKNGHCpqAljt2nLhWrtCg7DiaoJ5o_zDpRf2-gqOVpdqGGTPwkf_OrXz429-7ypg_nItrt4WSs8rADYyMrIpLKHT-97-HUG0HcHXP-VRaDYDNspqc/s640/IMG_0186.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">Dining Room</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMuF0qki3wXLQkV6uDuo-DopnHubb0mAxj6MTi5UKnuo9fC5ypJJJtAHLkqNG0rWBzUUo2IWCOVuX54hYAAiyKxWmdwzSNzDolRpLpl_IpJ2dyusQRfAQQbBKFJp7pCueZWQ5KHlx8s0/s1600/IMG_0187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMuF0qki3wXLQkV6uDuo-DopnHubb0mAxj6MTi5UKnuo9fC5ypJJJtAHLkqNG0rWBzUUo2IWCOVuX54hYAAiyKxWmdwzSNzDolRpLpl_IpJ2dyusQRfAQQbBKFJp7pCueZWQ5KHlx8s0/s640/IMG_0187.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dining Room</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Pu-VfBHWfMJdxv46aWUiYAPQGbenRAsd9xi89Q_rSao6GnPueWyimXLgc6SWR9sRJHsQDBjbNfBWmlTCG_MVkSOswzNYigdU3-QYwiOTFIf-wyUsmojV9Bgb6J4d7BQIfwlPGNF4jRg/s1600/IMG_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Pu-VfBHWfMJdxv46aWUiYAPQGbenRAsd9xi89Q_rSao6GnPueWyimXLgc6SWR9sRJHsQDBjbNfBWmlTCG_MVkSOswzNYigdU3-QYwiOTFIf-wyUsmojV9Bgb6J4d7BQIfwlPGNF4jRg/s640/IMG_0188.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.homegoods.com/furniture/" target="_blank">Rug Home Goods</a>/<a href="http://www.lampsplus.com/products/s_drum-chandeliers/" target="_blank">Lighting Lamps Plus</a>/ <a href="https://www.havertys.com/furniture/avondale-upholstered-dining-chair" target="_blank">Chairs Haverty's Furniture Online</a></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_AnDw7ER5JlMrV80QXLA9ukwemrATJ29P0Fk6beZxYC-fPdQ2nxJfXMT6poc0EySy-LkH5Zi0O5G1tGrpt6uaqIa3ryWJLNUP9mH7fxj55zWe9cMV8S101Z_ceSxnOvzR_I-Pnv17zE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-08-09+at+3.25.00+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="1011" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_AnDw7ER5JlMrV80QXLA9ukwemrATJ29P0Fk6beZxYC-fPdQ2nxJfXMT6poc0EySy-LkH5Zi0O5G1tGrpt6uaqIa3ryWJLNUP9mH7fxj55zWe9cMV8S101Z_ceSxnOvzR_I-Pnv17zE/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-08-09+at+3.25.00+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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That mirror above the buffet is from At Home. You may not have<br />
this store in your city, but the corporation owned Garden Ridge and<br />
re-invented the brand. At Home is the result and I love shopping<br />
there because the prices are amazing for some really expensive<br />
looking pieces. Where can you find an enormous mirror like that<br />
for less than $200? At Home is comparable to Cost Plus, World<br />
Market and Home Goods. My kind of place! I know my<br />
mirror is a cheaper version of a very expensive designer one. <br />
I found this one at Wayfair, but it is considerably smaller than<br />
mine and more expensive. I think the one I bought measures 54"<br />
round because I had trouble fitting it into the Suburban. The<br />
house has massively high walls that are very hard to decorate. <br />
It is hard to find wall art that is the right scale. I often create<br />
vingettes to fill up wall space.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7FBx2PtN_CnnR255ERtZsZxFcpmuoGliB1J0xwacQgIqMtNGMTIghj0e74JBn7Cfcq8W8VgbrNFO35wWN7vp8YZYq4XpyVV9htmmEB5DUeNuqksKaoAeEU-kqd0CmrDFey0nFWY-fGA/s1600/IMG_0190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7FBx2PtN_CnnR255ERtZsZxFcpmuoGliB1J0xwacQgIqMtNGMTIghj0e74JBn7Cfcq8W8VgbrNFO35wWN7vp8YZYq4XpyVV9htmmEB5DUeNuqksKaoAeEU-kqd0CmrDFey0nFWY-fGA/s640/IMG_0190.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">China Cabinet from Home Goods</span></td></tr>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii22Bz6sw7TFqe7uo6seOtuF18RGxLH_44GXG4SmnMWlQhPo66q9BAgmIAQD4jO2kGMBmKzAAFEybOOnDQq6fK01ct1Wll_fsR8y-g9TDF9CVEBAU-mkeDyc2eKdA408huHPLtPLMh5Cw/s1600/IMG_0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii22Bz6sw7TFqe7uo6seOtuF18RGxLH_44GXG4SmnMWlQhPo66q9BAgmIAQD4jO2kGMBmKzAAFEybOOnDQq6fK01ct1Wll_fsR8y-g9TDF9CVEBAU-mkeDyc2eKdA408huHPLtPLMh5Cw/s640/IMG_0191.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the dining room looking toward the living room and through the</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">entryway.</span><br />
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKqmYJzNjxKoqTCys7pHNQMYoaYWg0vNqTJueXQFC2OJ9qsbPIGfTScZVxzpBET1e5iydKAdDaUMj0CCn8EWl0rjPboYSm8vSNDZ8EhrFiCMBdoj4tAZAXPaIHbZKhEjb6TIzgHwdS40/s1600/IMG_0214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKqmYJzNjxKoqTCys7pHNQMYoaYWg0vNqTJueXQFC2OJ9qsbPIGfTScZVxzpBET1e5iydKAdDaUMj0CCn8EWl0rjPboYSm8vSNDZ8EhrFiCMBdoj4tAZAXPaIHbZKhEjb6TIzgHwdS40/s640/IMG_0214.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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In this view, the kitchen is on the other side of the wall and I am standing in the dining room at the front of the house. To the right, is a guest bedroom and that open door you see leads to a guest bathroom. Across from the bathroom is a butler' pantry. I will show the bathroom in the next tour. </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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqkHdG6W0rGtzTWLceNrV8RTds5h3BW4zqGEBi8fuIQTKSAmCD19pwZW9c-MvMOK1RkMDKQMBw3BCU0-luImvrAUgTg-0xZ3zAs9feW7oN7N6SdmUgO0u3rm1JVXxIC0H3uln1HFkz_Ls/s1600/IMG_0226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqkHdG6W0rGtzTWLceNrV8RTds5h3BW4zqGEBi8fuIQTKSAmCD19pwZW9c-MvMOK1RkMDKQMBw3BCU0-luImvrAUgTg-0xZ3zAs9feW7oN7N6SdmUgO0u3rm1JVXxIC0H3uln1HFkz_Ls/s640/IMG_0226.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the butler's pantry on the other side of the wall outside the dining room.</span></td></tr>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vk78gSaWCgNXnHFxibqYANJV8lQ2CfJN0zPBwvk81PlmQNeKstNVYold5tXuvTXlE4i3Iu_0HMKhtnvULMpOxBctWpdfVh2qnku_FroGgdNOGCOmTNyTxmhmCr8mBpztakY1MifUwmQ/s1600/IMG_0193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vk78gSaWCgNXnHFxibqYANJV8lQ2CfJN0zPBwvk81PlmQNeKstNVYold5tXuvTXlE4i3Iu_0HMKhtnvULMpOxBctWpdfVh2qnku_FroGgdNOGCOmTNyTxmhmCr8mBpztakY1MifUwmQ/s640/IMG_0193.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the formal living room. You see it on the left when you walk in the front door.</span><br />
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
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<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
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<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZBdF870I99UvX6K-7j3ud9eC22Za7GSkzuOvkEOC6LM60X3guQ_oWdvT0LLURmonossapN1LmJMdI9OK8YMKoJUWk2wVl9x7DH5mtOVm9kOP0EJAV7Mynms-HpfZ0bP2no339IAdfDU/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZBdF870I99UvX6K-7j3ud9eC22Za7GSkzuOvkEOC6LM60X3guQ_oWdvT0LLURmonossapN1LmJMdI9OK8YMKoJUWk2wVl9x7DH5mtOVm9kOP0EJAV7Mynms-HpfZ0bP2no339IAdfDU/s640/IMG_0194.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">Yes, the sofa is gone. I am in the process of buying a new one.</span><br />
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1JS-v-SA18M9Rmc8C31ojLoZBeGelkD9iXbjB-5i-LsWhYqOtNvkN83Bk8Al0AlcBtQ3AdXgYbUPth6gseCP45pSXogdiRTJYJCk4qRmsbT50CAdEJMWfh4TLhFRis2qYjIUJCV5C1Q/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1JS-v-SA18M9Rmc8C31ojLoZBeGelkD9iXbjB-5i-LsWhYqOtNvkN83Bk8Al0AlcBtQ3AdXgYbUPth6gseCP45pSXogdiRTJYJCk4qRmsbT50CAdEJMWfh4TLhFRis2qYjIUJCV5C1Q/s640/IMG_0195.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">This is the corner of the living room. The window faces the front of the house.</span><br />
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
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<table 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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihu18yJ6PXx0fxEOF65qR8FuLmUFZkEmE6Jcrwte34pj8jKFQjdYSmhQmQFmYY66yNidkgVSzVwwy-VdNv-RtKbHaCHziHDfVWve6GfPNYJjqtAW16Vo4mJUjz6bYhypZY7vrbw08cBmo/s1600/IMG_0162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihu18yJ6PXx0fxEOF65qR8FuLmUFZkEmE6Jcrwte34pj8jKFQjdYSmhQmQFmYY66yNidkgVSzVwwy-VdNv-RtKbHaCHziHDfVWve6GfPNYJjqtAW16Vo4mJUjz6bYhypZY7vrbw08cBmo/s640/IMG_0162.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Kitchen Nook</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span> We have a kitchen nook by the window and the table was purchased 14 years ago. This is the second set of chairs I've purchased to go with this table. I bought this set of dining chairs from Craig's List. They were brown and I painted them and recovered the seats. I broke my own rule about buying second hand chairs, but these are very sturdy. They came from a formal dining set and the seller graciously sold me just the chairs. I love how they looked with the existing table. The original chairs were ladder back and I am moving away from the French Country look. I made the window treatments with fabric from Calico Corner. The light fixtures all come from Lamps Plus. The kitchen wallpaper is old and needs to be updated at some point.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOATo_wrWsWQ-Bkx8F2jE3xZmeXAP4_wSs-7fZ99sgqEKeEIlIbQE9MHz7hLNVkivBY4umuGvCESUyfg7-JfwYlNeb6oGPuIABUM_7DnyIjhTsIQBRMNBEbXzt46tXz2JoGQ_6-n-MiPE/s1600/IMG_0165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOATo_wrWsWQ-Bkx8F2jE3xZmeXAP4_wSs-7fZ99sgqEKeEIlIbQE9MHz7hLNVkivBY4umuGvCESUyfg7-JfwYlNeb6oGPuIABUM_7DnyIjhTsIQBRMNBEbXzt46tXz2JoGQ_6-n-MiPE/s640/IMG_0165.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My flower arranging skills could use some help.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDFjBn4n5aXgEp5q33hkXt3M6oQdjK73cwPjk0xXghzhdVnxDoMJx2uK0TgXzZ48DPDMJQpMizUQxOpivKGkEhgN_9g_H1XJtXk3Op5llRYRjCRmQKf08wzVayD0WTfP7lmbM5ruPcG8/s1600/IMG_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDFjBn4n5aXgEp5q33hkXt3M6oQdjK73cwPjk0xXghzhdVnxDoMJx2uK0TgXzZ48DPDMJQpMizUQxOpivKGkEhgN_9g_H1XJtXk3Op5llRYRjCRmQKf08wzVayD0WTfP7lmbM5ruPcG8/s640/IMG_0166.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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The kitchen island has a curve in it which was a nightmare to design and execute. I am so happy with how it looks, but Tex bangs into the corners a lot.<br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhUCiOWDLSx38RJbfGsCMp5yvIiLqJm71JqEKJRlOy-e3ST9-OsCtZ0HVEJos93IlmLP-K0tX9BF9LFlSyiw4-hYRsdK9h7jrUEIit1eo3__NrEH9sgeFmIPuSpdtvE4j3WZKaFfWj0Q/s1600/IMG_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhUCiOWDLSx38RJbfGsCMp5yvIiLqJm71JqEKJRlOy-e3ST9-OsCtZ0HVEJos93IlmLP-K0tX9BF9LFlSyiw4-hYRsdK9h7jrUEIit1eo3__NrEH9sgeFmIPuSpdtvE4j3WZKaFfWj0Q/s640/IMG_0167.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><div style="text-align: left;">
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</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNELaJ2-LO6PeWWULKZ7e12I5tdJPlTL9qKbK7VtxOqpWIDxQezq7Ol-b6mY8NwuCUls-WdKqTlbUos0jtNMC_7SDa8gKcUNiN7DBjLvAtzeTrFJTlUVpvq4vtGIc2PUR1sSoc8PMfpiU/s1600/IMG_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNELaJ2-LO6PeWWULKZ7e12I5tdJPlTL9qKbK7VtxOqpWIDxQezq7Ol-b6mY8NwuCUls-WdKqTlbUos0jtNMC_7SDa8gKcUNiN7DBjLvAtzeTrFJTlUVpvq4vtGIc2PUR1sSoc8PMfpiU/s640/IMG_0168.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Kitchen looking into the family room </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwhLKYrGjq-8uKXGr6swMBFsUTclLosma0jzoBfd4i5mogRyDGTytY6-aS6nwUyVvAeytfZO-3Z1tBYNtJta55fwcYbmbyfLafcF3h3VS8VMbkqVCHWjaqu1cyAxq_2leB3mycuktrTA/s1600/IMG_0169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwhLKYrGjq-8uKXGr6swMBFsUTclLosma0jzoBfd4i5mogRyDGTytY6-aS6nwUyVvAeytfZO-3Z1tBYNtJta55fwcYbmbyfLafcF3h3VS8VMbkqVCHWjaqu1cyAxq_2leB3mycuktrTA/s640/IMG_0169.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: start;">
<span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">The granite composite sink is "da bomb!" </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">I hesitated to get a sink with no separation or division, but it is deep and spacious. The color is "greige" and </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">I love, love, love it!! The bar is where my husband sets up </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">his computer on the days when he works from home. I think he likes this vantage point </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">because he can see the television and see outside too.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxPI79en8Gdx1Nx8qbPo1pBh0oyuV2W-8bE5pA-uhh2iCdPyx0-SsRlbgFIRP8RinVPh_jRyIte6BOzJtYUx16Ha_wLo9wiLV2YwvgdEGrIStx8rM7Bsb6KJ6MLhrAgZf4yAokLZk57M/s1600/IMG_0170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxPI79en8Gdx1Nx8qbPo1pBh0oyuV2W-8bE5pA-uhh2iCdPyx0-SsRlbgFIRP8RinVPh_jRyIte6BOzJtYUx16Ha_wLo9wiLV2YwvgdEGrIStx8rM7Bsb6KJ6MLhrAgZf4yAokLZk57M/s640/IMG_0170.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;">That alcove opening you see to the left of the sofa leads to the master </span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">bedroom. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoJPs7lNAAtzVlu7m9hIAMrQNhwsV8WXjIURw1JM8kAB6LSQ9DccEr3eHqGOH6qfSwLVT659r5r-kTVnzM0rz_2r-73hSDN5Qo-5IU_E6c4rsHWRcGJ2eREG9D9ux4HHGx4YSPbRK1QA/s1600/IMG_0172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoJPs7lNAAtzVlu7m9hIAMrQNhwsV8WXjIURw1JM8kAB6LSQ9DccEr3eHqGOH6qfSwLVT659r5r-kTVnzM0rz_2r-73hSDN5Qo-5IU_E6c4rsHWRcGJ2eREG9D9ux4HHGx4YSPbRK1QA/s640/IMG_0172.JPG" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="text-align: center;"> This is the family room looking out the windows overlooking the backyard. We have a rear alley and driveway </span><span style="text-align: center;">and you can see our back neighbors through the windows</span><span style="text-align: center;">. I just had those chairs recovered. I will try to find a picture of them before. That </span><span style="text-align: center;">green chest between the chairs was a good DIY project. I like the way </span><span style="text-align: center;">it turned out. I made the curtains. The hooks they hang on are mug/cup hangers that I found at Target years ago. Pictured below are the pillows I </span></span>sewed recently with fabric from Hobby Lobby.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5PQvybUPYQ0kfbnNpbm-Q6_ogmKBCgYSGmEZJLfHzRI0YVDNYMAoADXX5oqiZ_XacJ46jTZ76Nj51nhYSuRzNlJOAhYeV-fIbC__Px3a3bFsz4kft3J70PeiT_O18PH72hHlXzaW5N4/s1600/IMG_0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5PQvybUPYQ0kfbnNpbm-Q6_ogmKBCgYSGmEZJLfHzRI0YVDNYMAoADXX5oqiZ_XacJ46jTZ76Nj51nhYSuRzNlJOAhYeV-fIbC__Px3a3bFsz4kft3J70PeiT_O18PH72hHlXzaW5N4/s640/IMG_0173.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Family Room</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-yNiufmn63JTUgcePsWEq-x2dwrxo8GmOCxiNckEIPnh7ZkGuBmChwRKbQZ6gPpb73CcjQY-TzkZnAHaFnSDQfB9HaJ1ooiC2qTg-xwG32DfSy4viqUB2Y0CKyJC5dAgQVde0KMho90/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-yNiufmn63JTUgcePsWEq-x2dwrxo8GmOCxiNckEIPnh7ZkGuBmChwRKbQZ6gPpb73CcjQY-TzkZnAHaFnSDQfB9HaJ1ooiC2qTg-xwG32DfSy4viqUB2Y0CKyJC5dAgQVde0KMho90/s640/IMG_0174.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"> John's favorite seat in the house is at the bar. I bought those stools at </span><span style="text-align: center;">Home Goods. </span><span style="text-align: center;">They are so comfortable and they swivel. I had a tiny </span><span style="text-align: center;">glass coffee </span><span style="text-align: center;">table in here that was way too small. I scored this massive </span><span style="text-align: center;">one at Goodwill. </span><span style="text-align: center;">That recliner chair is the </span><span style="text-align: center;">one I sit in to watch </span><span style="text-align: center;">television. It is well loved! </span><span style="text-align: center;">My friend told me to buy carpet</span><span style="text-align: center;"> that is dirt </span><span style="text-align: center;">colored and I have used that tip whenever I need flooring. </span><span style="text-align: center;">This rug gets tons of traffic and never looks dirty</span><span style="text-align: center;">. </span><span style="text-align: center;">I got it at Home Goods a couple of </span><span style="text-align: center;">years ago and love it. </span><span style="text-align: center;">We had a cream color one in here previously and it looked </span><span style="text-align: center;">amazing, but I couldn't keep ahead of the dirt. This is where I sacrifice design for function. Lighter color rugs look great on the dark wood floors, but just aren't practical.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The television is the focal point of the room. Such a guy thing.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_RTv9EwM-o9hhgPnzbHDGAM6EMtePTcVZhE1pFj6Oe-HqseW4pBbppUFtGw0ni8cWuVkjJzkNpUBd9JK-RpVaOTH25r0MFj-FRFaTUUHaRXl7azkpnmdYSxTXHh4FGWPbgkLkOka7NA/s1600/IMG_0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_RTv9EwM-o9hhgPnzbHDGAM6EMtePTcVZhE1pFj6Oe-HqseW4pBbppUFtGw0ni8cWuVkjJzkNpUBd9JK-RpVaOTH25r0MFj-FRFaTUUHaRXl7azkpnmdYSxTXHh4FGWPbgkLkOka7NA/s640/IMG_0176.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">This is a Thomas Kinkade print that I bought a long time ago at Tuesday Morning. I'm ready for a change and want to get something a little more abstract. </span><span style="text-align: center;">You are getting a good look at that the molding that is darker than the cream wall </span><span style="text-align: center;">color. I purposely did this for maximum contrast. It took a little </span><span style="text-align: center;">convincing to get Tex to agree to that decorating feature. He's a white molding guy. I will add a link to the blog called "paint colors" so you can reference the woodwork and wall formulas. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaei9IR62B465uSB_HXppeou8k8rAURS0FuiKcaROnc6rNCDpZoqGLvEobGrtJYzk-mmg-QkF9E8sFvX6JUhxAlSG61nVhUy_4NnSKoiR753JgdmPr4fAO87hIPzGbcgS416IFaiLyOU/s1600/IMG_0177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaei9IR62B465uSB_HXppeou8k8rAURS0FuiKcaROnc6rNCDpZoqGLvEobGrtJYzk-mmg-QkF9E8sFvX6JUhxAlSG61nVhUy_4NnSKoiR753JgdmPr4fAO87hIPzGbcgS416IFaiLyOU/s640/IMG_0177.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;"> We put in hard word floors and re-tiled the fireplace when we </span><span style="text-align: center;">remodeled the kitchen. It was a big job and a big mess for </span><span style="text-align: center;">months, mind you, while my mother was living with us! Sorry Mom.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">This vignette is right outside the kitchen. This picture shows the open floor plan. I </span><span style="text-align: center;">plan to change the ugly green color on that bust statue. It was a DIY project </span><span style="text-align: center;">gone bad.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89WoyesFmspMpc01IFjwXr73BSoh1CwjjlQjba11tmuZwzo0-nsOmUeIMBNeJJUMV0e1n2IR2ud5kqdVGTrtbnCok24zGcx5FJc09oXBesDeJ22ozBgAiPSqRXeiyTBWsFbtIsNAQduQ/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89WoyesFmspMpc01IFjwXr73BSoh1CwjjlQjba11tmuZwzo0-nsOmUeIMBNeJJUMV0e1n2IR2ud5kqdVGTrtbnCok24zGcx5FJc09oXBesDeJ22ozBgAiPSqRXeiyTBWsFbtIsNAQduQ/s640/IMG_0179.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Scored the LaBarge mirror on Craig's List for $30.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMYcgdbRlBH2TVFcGzZVg8yZsNGwBsm4LdjHMryIhiMG7Guxg-gMsM4lJG72mksFbCXn-u-DmR3EI9XI_PTH_U9rBI19L4oSLFvzA4lVvNutXKFNV2WWiIo8krPA9DiSTI9g1tLbA_kHo/s1600/IMG_0181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMYcgdbRlBH2TVFcGzZVg8yZsNGwBsm4LdjHMryIhiMG7Guxg-gMsM4lJG72mksFbCXn-u-DmR3EI9XI_PTH_U9rBI19L4oSLFvzA4lVvNutXKFNV2WWiIo8krPA9DiSTI9g1tLbA_kHo/s640/IMG_0181.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a little nook under the staircase. </span> </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a little alcove outside our bedroom.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I don't want you to think we are neat freaks!</span></td></tr>
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Now that I have made the bed, you may notice that the picture is off center. I can't make up</div>
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my mind if I want the desk where it is, or if it should go elsewhere. Thus, I don't</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHP6WRkXK_QskrokuAgqxIMMUX5ymWHMnbvMuKfcLAfCqThGBtF1UnBBlJd3MoQdR2qCUwj_9aFIY2rkLgI4PQEMUq2dmQ-cw3uukJ94gYGQ5TULXV-OcjiHhFNayCEqFDT4a4tlDt8E/s1600/IMG_0200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHP6WRkXK_QskrokuAgqxIMMUX5ymWHMnbvMuKfcLAfCqThGBtF1UnBBlJd3MoQdR2qCUwj_9aFIY2rkLgI4PQEMUq2dmQ-cw3uukJ94gYGQ5TULXV-OcjiHhFNayCEqFDT4a4tlDt8E/s640/IMG_0200.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Wall across from bed</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgSHSvmchXa0_9rY4NS57COtu50fHzJeIKE6Hj_CvYg0M7G_GUcfoYgb12vcsiq3QnNkv4oWdHOLtdReiabDMgz49KD3ZtToDPvaYEF_0JyTcueDhpAlaa6jiBS50GTkBY_mBfu8uOME/s1600/IMG_0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgSHSvmchXa0_9rY4NS57COtu50fHzJeIKE6Hj_CvYg0M7G_GUcfoYgb12vcsiq3QnNkv4oWdHOLtdReiabDMgz49KD3ZtToDPvaYEF_0JyTcueDhpAlaa6jiBS50GTkBY_mBfu8uOME/s640/IMG_0202.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I need to interject more color in the room. You will see a red lamp on the desk and the picture over the bed. They may inspire me to add more complimentary colors to the room. Maybe I will paint the desk chair bright orange. What do you think??<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span> I bought this skin at Canton Trade Days in June and love it. Our elderly dog, Coal,<br />
has developed a lot of anxiety as she gets older. It could be that she is hard of hearing and her<br />
eyesight is getting bad. Anyway, since I brought home the skin, she seems to use it to calm down. It's like her friend. Very strange. I also bought her a "Thundershirt" too and she wears it when we have a stormy weather. I think she needs meds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFMbiTrPrVRRMy40FUZ8PzLqZxjS7Ak1_K5ErEcPCzkgtNI4Ve5i826-p5UY0YzrzrO2iF4zTrKG7S57rl10og3L3bTA8sQtqnNUxs9lo6Q5HLKpacw2fG5gag0pYtumJsU3kr-t72ETU/s1600/IMG_0210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFMbiTrPrVRRMy40FUZ8PzLqZxjS7Ak1_K5ErEcPCzkgtNI4Ve5i826-p5UY0YzrzrO2iF4zTrKG7S57rl10og3L3bTA8sQtqnNUxs9lo6Q5HLKpacw2fG5gag0pYtumJsU3kr-t72ETU/s640/IMG_0210.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Outside the Bedroom</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Coal</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> That is the end of House Tour 1. I will finish the downstairs in the next post. The final post will be upstairs and those areas are full of decorating possibilities. I'm sorry this post was so long and please leave comments for me. I love reading what you have to say. Isn't Coal the best looking dog?? I just love her.</span></div>
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We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-89117066642986023852017-08-07T23:08:00.000-05:002017-08-08T15:46:10.858-05:00Goodbye Old Saybrook...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The summer has been full of so many high points. I asked Audra to tell me the highs and lows of the summer. The high points were too numerous to count. She spent a lot of time relaxing at the beach with her friends and she ate way too much pizza. A low point this summer, and last summer too, come to think of it, was this...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9z3BsxGX8FkrXOZ-pXPXua9UNwdqz0nXK_a5ba2b54c2DPRLNk1S1pPZ1dtaJDgww7bUH5rcMY357k4rWbGi_fbvjY5lu-PStCXPeXyk69cE2p8kzOD1u8NgAEhmNuGohAAY0vqdkOo/s1600/phone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9z3BsxGX8FkrXOZ-pXPXua9UNwdqz0nXK_a5ba2b54c2DPRLNk1S1pPZ1dtaJDgww7bUH5rcMY357k4rWbGi_fbvjY5lu-PStCXPeXyk69cE2p8kzOD1u8NgAEhmNuGohAAY0vqdkOo/s1600/phone.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Audra is not happy.</td></tr>
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<span class="s1">Yes, a broken phone. Audra has had too many experiences with broken phones. So many, in fact, that Big Tex (her dad) and I don't even acknowledge a cracked screen anymore. It was my decision not to get the screen replaced because she was having a lot of trouble with her phone holding a charge all summer. Fixing a cracked screen, on an older phone, might just set us up to waste a bunch of money. It may be just dumb luck, but as soon as I replace a cracked screen, some other fatal problem crops up, and I am forced to buy a new phone anyway. Darned refurbished phones!! Anyway, I decided that I needed a new phone, or actually a new camera, because I am really enjoying blogging and appreciate clear pictures when I am reading my favorite blogs. Audra made the argument that I should buy the Iphone 7 plus because it has a new and improved camera feature. To her advantage, I would give her my old phone, and all would be right with the universe once again. That's my girl, a problem solver!! I do feel like the pictures are amazing on the new camera.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"> The rest of the post will chronicle the last day at the shore. I zipped over to the Big Y and picked up steamed lobster for dinner. At $7.99 per pound, we were able to have an incredible feast. My family has<strike> put up with me</strike> hosted me all summer, so the lobster is the least I can do to repay the kindness they have shown me.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6hibMLD1zobn4k1xiv8oFD2UrszN614boAoZLKcw7Q8vWdVxvfunT2Ao22MIG5cKkIjupq2wR2t2zG60-5ddLw5M53hTf_OhxhxaAxolCI6suHbDglrku5S0-56BMR7XN3i2M7RIPVs/s1600/IMG_2231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6hibMLD1zobn4k1xiv8oFD2UrszN614boAoZLKcw7Q8vWdVxvfunT2Ao22MIG5cKkIjupq2wR2t2zG60-5ddLw5M53hTf_OhxhxaAxolCI6suHbDglrku5S0-56BMR7XN3i2M7RIPVs/s640/IMG_2231.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom loves her lobster.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8FJa9CgDcq-EApeNoyPnBViIEeH_nLypNEwUoUfKGqfGl58PbjkiP-943Q3ta4ZGvNMH0X_8SKU3pBeWNuYj7SZx5ZlyGvMXSCTevgNz642q_thqKDKBDoRFBnsud11A4u8y_mKHiHc/s1600/IMG_2233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8FJa9CgDcq-EApeNoyPnBViIEeH_nLypNEwUoUfKGqfGl58PbjkiP-943Q3ta4ZGvNMH0X_8SKU3pBeWNuYj7SZx5ZlyGvMXSCTevgNz642q_thqKDKBDoRFBnsud11A4u8y_mKHiHc/s640/IMG_2233.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the first year Audra pulled out the meat and ate the whole lobster.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Audra and her crazy aunt. </td></tr>
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We took a ride to the beach after dinner for sunset and social hour. I asked the squad to meet us there for our last sunset together. We crowded around and got as many pictures as possible before it became too dark. I'm gonna miss the squad tons!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv26nVqElE43cAVfesdBSSmkVGQ0cljzz8BakN5aiIbzuYmJHyiJOriiOhCoLpvtdItP5MqDf-FAbLeCbL72KZJJ9yQgy-KXgFwCs1vpcTNhTCn7cad31HJ5_iRfL8fqG3YeriCvNKpME/s1600/lastnight2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv26nVqElE43cAVfesdBSSmkVGQ0cljzz8BakN5aiIbzuYmJHyiJOriiOhCoLpvtdItP5MqDf-FAbLeCbL72KZJJ9yQgy-KXgFwCs1vpcTNhTCn7cad31HJ5_iRfL8fqG3YeriCvNKpME/s640/lastnight2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Audra</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini Squad</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZhqRvKJyPeJ584bcE7F4zsc8BhJvHgpR6atXE7PZmsYW4rTgzYtTtb1q-cNgkr0Jitw0xjJlbdGwjw20KPbI8jXf0wq_fj1nanTthYaDgNnoh4iYtECSaUqoAW1B4fk9viMhF4eBznJI/s1600/lastnight4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZhqRvKJyPeJ584bcE7F4zsc8BhJvHgpR6atXE7PZmsYW4rTgzYtTtb1q-cNgkr0Jitw0xjJlbdGwjw20KPbI8jXf0wq_fj1nanTthYaDgNnoh4iYtECSaUqoAW1B4fk9viMhF4eBznJI/s640/lastnight4.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lauren and her beautiful girls.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Karen rushed to get back for our photo session.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andrew didn't want to get into the picture. I think he's tired of being the only boy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurie and Steve<br />
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I see we have a photo bomber!</div>
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Left to right: Lauren, Heather, Me, Karen and Jenna with Chloe as the bomber. Sadly, Liz is missing from this one.</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;">I am still getting the hang of the new phone camera and don't understand why the pictures looks great on my phone, but once I transfer them to my computer and ultimately the blog, the pictures aren't as clear. If anyone can tell me why this is happening, please post a comment below. </span><br />
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Goodbye Summer of 2017!!!<br />
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We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-57232325228479627122017-08-03T20:15:00.002-05:002017-08-03T20:17:38.046-05:00Mailboxes and Such I needed to show off the adorably styled mailboxes that I see along my travels. I am especially jealous because we have very boring brick mailboxes in my neighborhood. They look like this in Texas.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8vkeh3jkekN65B7VgpTCJ4YVBpJyY3Ra8VXR37UE_YNXj0FsH-qUCxviOJsF2n7yVYM5cbDEFG4g5mEdVXr7NRVygHzN_Ehu3MsP-j_dyi7zKjOlAEDQh8fhDZwzht22lTbuQyTeEks/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-08-03+at+8.01.40+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="361" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8vkeh3jkekN65B7VgpTCJ4YVBpJyY3Ra8VXR37UE_YNXj0FsH-qUCxviOJsF2n7yVYM5cbDEFG4g5mEdVXr7NRVygHzN_Ehu3MsP-j_dyi7zKjOlAEDQh8fhDZwzht22lTbuQyTeEks/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-08-03+at+8.01.40+PM.png" width="635" /></a></td></tr>
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Old Saybrook boasts a picturesque beach vibe that is showcased everywhere, including the mailbox posts!! It is yet another decorating opportunity that some residence couldn't resist.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizd5uayXnf1MlFKBwwia0LJmRa9upGgD-kS87b8CBjSKsdfAg_Zxnj8e_6_O-iwdUcQZ4INlOl2FlkqICZIx98nvXwLJiFwPjBZFQJiT_nHp0r8dSvCZUoYqU49yBvOJwVCdC4u2JWA8Y/s1600/IMG_0097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizd5uayXnf1MlFKBwwia0LJmRa9upGgD-kS87b8CBjSKsdfAg_Zxnj8e_6_O-iwdUcQZ4INlOl2FlkqICZIx98nvXwLJiFwPjBZFQJiT_nHp0r8dSvCZUoYqU49yBvOJwVCdC4u2JWA8Y/s640/IMG_0097.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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This last mailbox is my favorite. He gets a complete makeover each holiday. How fun!!<br />
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We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-78838094760282858602017-08-03T19:41:00.001-05:002017-08-03T19:41:10.220-05:00Casual Lunch with FriendsHi All, This is my first outfit of the day post. I thought I would share what I wore to lunch with my college girlfriends today. We had a ton of fun and I look forward to this outing every year.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="http://bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com/browse/category.do?cid=1044980&mlink=1037770,13495906,flyout_topnav_TOPS_TEES&clink=13495906" target="_blank">Shirt</a> <a href="http://www.converse.com/us/en_us/pw/converse-shoes/pirZoi3?cp=usns_kw_converse_null_txt!g!c!br!e!converse%20sneakers&k_clickid=63719651-2551-4613-8858-96699df6c695" target="_blank">Converse Sneakers</a> <a href="https://www.kohls.com/catalog/womens-rock-republic-jeans-bottoms-clothing.jsp?CN=Gender:Womens+Brand:Rock%20%26%20Republic+Product:Jeans+Category:Bottoms+Department:Clothing&S=1&WS=0&PPP=60&kls_sbp=YnJhbmROYW1lK0Nyb2Z0JTIwJTI2JTIwQmFycm93OjAuMTg3NjIrR2xvcmlhJTIwVmFuZGVyYmlsdDowLjE4NTY4K1RlayUyMEdlYXI6MC4xODc1NCtTT05PTUElMjBHb29kcyUyMGZvciUyMExpZmU6MC4yNTM3&pfm=browse%20refine" target="_blank">Jeans</a> <a href="http://bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com/browse/search.do?searchText=necklace" target="_blank">Necklace</a> <a href="http://www.kendrascott.com/homepage?gclid=COTU4tGnudUCFcVWDQod39EDgg" target="_blank">Earrings</a></td></tr>
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I don't know if you will agree, but I find that if I visit the actual store, the price on the items is exponentially cheaper than buying it online. The necklace is $21.99 online, but I paid a little more than $9 for it at the store. The shirt is adorable with bell sleeves that make it really modern. This is a size large and I wish I had bought it in a medium. I bought the navy in a medium and it sort of stretches out a little when I wear it, so downsizing is smart. When washed, the cotton/modal material holds up well and doesn't lose shape at all. </div>
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This picture was taken at my mother's house and you can see my sister's house in the background. It is under construction, and I have enjoyed watching the renovation all summer long. She lives across the street right now, and is moving on the other side of my mother. I told her that she has mother issues.<br />
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I promise the picture quality will get better. I hate blurry, fuzzy pictures.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKJTIFnlR7xqjeAO1noks1JMdtP5ae_epbaoAB1-no9LW9Da5O9nIyb26fgK2pr-D38dA-QQ80vXsoaEJCF_bwxQHdimhoi6qgzcjom-Rt3TyruxlymX4H2BPiCGdI0phYQtBZ4dcUfI/s1600/ootd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="180" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKJTIFnlR7xqjeAO1noks1JMdtP5ae_epbaoAB1-no9LW9Da5O9nIyb26fgK2pr-D38dA-QQ80vXsoaEJCF_bwxQHdimhoi6qgzcjom-Rt3TyruxlymX4H2BPiCGdI0phYQtBZ4dcUfI/s640/ootd3.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Audra's bike has been in the driveway all summer. She uses my mother's bike all summer, and had an unfortunate brake line failure the other day. The cable broke, and thankfully, was still able to use the other brake to stop. She texted me that she needed me to buy her a new bike. She has been angling for a new bike for many years, but I can't justify it for the 6 weeks a year that we spend in Connecticut. So, I was very happy when the bike shop was able to fix it for $15. I call that a win! I don't think Audra would agree. She wants a beach cruiser (not!).<br />
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We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-12283414399694692572017-07-29T21:09:00.001-05:002017-07-30T13:54:58.993-05:00Chicken WingsThe summer squad gets together on Friday evenings and my husband suggested we bring hot wings to the party. I agreed because wings appeal to all ages and serve a large crowd. I found the recipe on the back of the hot sauce bottle and it was a cinch to make. Three ingredients are all that is needed to make this awesome dish.<br />
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Two packages of frozen chicken drumettes, 2.5 pounds each<br />
1/4 Texas Pete or any hot sauce<br />
6 Tablespoons of butter<br />
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Melt butter and hot sauce in a pan on the stove until butter is melted. Meanwhile, bake the drumettes according to package directions. I baked them at 350 degrees for 45 minutes and then 15 minutes at 375 degrees to get them to brown up nicely. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvg4OIj2DRqVrxzOAXUMgJ6QJWVp3gtU0dqTmHf9OEkIdoUokZPyKy55yApiPX4tWF3jdDmnwyixN8f5YkdPlXbzVeV9kEdmJunfI_ekrTR3z2SwaaJ8Y2onaqtjldM27An2gtOnGqwQ/s1600/wing37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5jxllyCH6OllInRyfj9bp0_P1KV4-wvewKoEV5_aRTQHyQxumlT-gLPHGmIYSWe4PTOzhSPjzWvEnVf-6p5ZTZohBVLEX7wACRn9RTnkwrA1D9bdkTpkPWSuMgGvoGxSerGGZ0fKCkY/s1600/wing5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5jxllyCH6OllInRyfj9bp0_P1KV4-wvewKoEV5_aRTQHyQxumlT-gLPHGmIYSWe4PTOzhSPjzWvEnVf-6p5ZTZohBVLEX7wACRn9RTnkwrA1D9bdkTpkPWSuMgGvoGxSerGGZ0fKCkY/s640/wing5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1rzu544kE1vB-7m6Pk3Goik368mDB1OiSN8AhhZy2hAUbmg1NUcaVKnevDzZ0jIkpdPwSkOlG_mSmbgtb3Ji-5qNhDuLnveeDwkPinbGXJ1rbElBZXPgXR-4YKEdz-Qs8EXRwfMeENc/s1600/wing6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1rzu544kE1vB-7m6Pk3Goik368mDB1OiSN8AhhZy2hAUbmg1NUcaVKnevDzZ0jIkpdPwSkOlG_mSmbgtb3Ji-5qNhDuLnveeDwkPinbGXJ1rbElBZXPgXR-4YKEdz-Qs8EXRwfMeENc/s640/wing6.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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When baking the drummettes, I arranged the frozen chicken pieces on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, so cleanup would be easier later on. I put them in a single layer and I prefer</div>
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them on the overcooked side, because you can never be safe with chicken. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaeCRKe8g_Opdv584BVWLNntI-rzysuyy-V3XmRG-WcSKJJTTaFHOtinRKP2Lw7vCJb_dsEY48uwV8AQB-wF6CkD-9Vc_J9ME9kL-BRSRqlz9U_q_34VlxXVUWm1Djnrml_sIymZIPi0/s1600/wing4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaeCRKe8g_Opdv584BVWLNntI-rzysuyy-V3XmRG-WcSKJJTTaFHOtinRKP2Lw7vCJb_dsEY48uwV8AQB-wF6CkD-9Vc_J9ME9kL-BRSRqlz9U_q_34VlxXVUWm1Djnrml_sIymZIPi0/s640/wing4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_o7WX2zYjhNghyDzvDVmBm1NL4jiZrb3NL0C4UWrR2c0FKOt4vm7436Tnt1Z2p4D-reEZMCPOcHHePB_oaB6HIvznKC-qENxdpLFfzIAdYqampWC_DNiD3UKjUxybJefPxDEX3UoV2Y/s1600/wing2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_o7WX2zYjhNghyDzvDVmBm1NL4jiZrb3NL0C4UWrR2c0FKOt4vm7436Tnt1Z2p4D-reEZMCPOcHHePB_oaB6HIvznKC-qENxdpLFfzIAdYqampWC_DNiD3UKjUxybJefPxDEX3UoV2Y/s640/wing2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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When the drummettes were done baking, I was planned to transfer them to a wire rack to then baste them with the hot sauce/butter mixture. I quickly realized that I should just drench the wings in the yummy hot sauce mixture for the best flavor. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglNLh6IVcuKitRIaHfeDiH6npxZGXhCqnCLFay8-YaqOd0ysZJYbDRlhNal4ONRaeP1SII6jljHB90-gJDmSc0QPL4LBKY3xmiA4l_rapxxA6-7mO76icQoH5Jks6ia_COMmPeE9CDXU/s1600/wing15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglNLh6IVcuKitRIaHfeDiH6npxZGXhCqnCLFay8-YaqOd0ysZJYbDRlhNal4ONRaeP1SII6jljHB90-gJDmSc0QPL4LBKY3xmiA4l_rapxxA6-7mO76icQoH5Jks6ia_COMmPeE9CDXU/s640/wing15.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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So, skip this step and just throw them all in a large bowl.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7YPzO-TrvBSK4yR4-WDJ9zgt11s46nlePXpj9HdCwBzbCEvU4t7WJBdFGZHcOlAWPEvpLxMnOtkgSmbUXDHkQkzOv1dvewN5t2thSQ0tuNd9ozjTjvxw1af8a3SZggDEOB_YhD_QXC0g/s1600/wing30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7YPzO-TrvBSK4yR4-WDJ9zgt11s46nlePXpj9HdCwBzbCEvU4t7WJBdFGZHcOlAWPEvpLxMnOtkgSmbUXDHkQkzOv1dvewN5t2thSQ0tuNd9ozjTjvxw1af8a3SZggDEOB_YhD_QXC0g/s640/wing30.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Dump them all in a large bowl.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie0VVlAw3cGtPqyxB4EtAo5hsxzpWo2xqxG9zeg-GPi3vfajMnPJZlN1L2eLm6-uXUb6D3TJpGsRsf3eUrjLwQCJXYpsz-N-a0BZgL6lcDjuJM0erbK_8Y-QpDp8J5BJW29s7LhyphenhyphenZOmK4/s1600/wing31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie0VVlAw3cGtPqyxB4EtAo5hsxzpWo2xqxG9zeg-GPi3vfajMnPJZlN1L2eLm6-uXUb6D3TJpGsRsf3eUrjLwQCJXYpsz-N-a0BZgL6lcDjuJM0erbK_8Y-QpDp8J5BJW29s7LhyphenhyphenZOmK4/s640/wing31.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Then douse the whole bunch of chicken with the whole pan full of hot sauce/ butter yumminess.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVZ5GZLE705n1dCDu-bimTwq6AM9qjG8MIV5ciA6C9FdX3lqOQ5m2jrEie2peQF0NGO2FOh30sx7bhTLNVrIUs1usrQz0ysfoUInzHSvA0Keghv4mRXzXK08J6DbTEZlxG_2iRK02exA/s1600/wing32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVZ5GZLE705n1dCDu-bimTwq6AM9qjG8MIV5ciA6C9FdX3lqOQ5m2jrEie2peQF0NGO2FOh30sx7bhTLNVrIUs1usrQz0ysfoUInzHSvA0Keghv4mRXzXK08J6DbTEZlxG_2iRK02exA/s640/wing32.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Serve hot with lots of extra hot sauce for those people who appreciate it spicier.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLKmY2weac5IaHXS-D6Ri_Rr0BaabrF9-3SVd07I9O1MyiNwHu3qtDReiRfwIjf8kUPa05Vyuf88be0OULP5_ydB9zpoG53mziyUcG2rb7MdH1FESWXQWfXIrkqW0vE40Cknc1Ninv8c/s1600/wing34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLKmY2weac5IaHXS-D6Ri_Rr0BaabrF9-3SVd07I9O1MyiNwHu3qtDReiRfwIjf8kUPa05Vyuf88be0OULP5_ydB9zpoG53mziyUcG2rb7MdH1FESWXQWfXIrkqW0vE40Cknc1Ninv8c/s640/wing34.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my happy customers!</td></tr>
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As I mentioned at the top of the post, the squad consists of our beach friends, new and old, who are truly the heart of our beach experience every year. It is hard to explain how these people unconditionally welcome us, year after year, into the social fold of Cornfield Point. Our family has gathering at this beach for over 70 years, and so have the families of these fine women. Whether we meet each day at the beach to soak up the sun, gather for the amazing nightly sunset, stroll to bingo, craft night, field day, or party on Karen's back deck on Friday nights, I can fraternize at the drop of the hat. These people make summer days and nights so special that Audra and I long for them the other 10 months of the year. This isn't goodbye yet, but it is the official picture of summer 2017. I love our squad, keep smiling!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvg4OIj2DRqVrxzOAXUMgJ6QJWVp3gtU0dqTmHf9OEkIdoUokZPyKy55yApiPX4tWF3jdDmnwyixN8f5YkdPlXbzVeV9kEdmJunfI_ekrTR3z2SwaaJ8Y2onaqtjldM27An2gtOnGqwQ/s1600/wing37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvg4OIj2DRqVrxzOAXUMgJ6QJWVp3gtU0dqTmHf9OEkIdoUokZPyKy55yApiPX4tWF3jdDmnwyixN8f5YkdPlXbzVeV9kEdmJunfI_ekrTR3z2SwaaJ8Y2onaqtjldM27An2gtOnGqwQ/s640/wing37.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From left to right<br />
Me, Liz, Heather Karen, Lauren<br />
Jenna up front holding Cornfield Point Sign</td></tr>
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We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-28678563344837067652017-07-28T07:52:00.001-05:002017-07-28T07:52:18.930-05:005 Under $5 On the heels of my<u> Favorite Things</u> post, I decided to share some amazing products that I use daily that don't break the bank. Each item I use retails for under $5 and I use them every day and cannot live without. Again, I am not being paid to sponsor or endorse any of these products. <br />
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<b>Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics</b><br />
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<b> </b>In case you see my hairdresser, please don't tell her. I have been doing nothing to my hair this whole summer. I have curly, processed hair that usually gets put through some pretty harsh heat styling on a daily basis. Summertime is the one exception. I generally pull it back, wet or dry, and forget about it. I don't have too many social outings that take me away from the beach, so the ponytail/bun look is totally acceptable. That's where these hair elastics come to the rescue. I don't know about you, but if the elastic is too thick and heavy, it weighs down the pony tail. To solve the droop problem, I secure the elastic a lot tighter and get a major headache by the end of the day. These little plastic puppies are perfect because I can secure it high or low and it never budges and doesn't get tangled in my locks when I take it out at night. They are light weight and come in colors, so they don't show in your hair. I bought the black and it works with my hair color, but I could also get away with the brown or the clear. They are made of smooth plastic and come is a variety of sizes depending on the thickness of your hair. I have less hair as time goes on (let's not even go there), so the smaller size works well for me. This actually works to my advantage because Audra needs the mack daddy of all hair ties for her thick mane of hair, so shucks, we can't share them. Anything we seems to share, I seem to come out on the losing end of, so these babies are in my drawer. I guess it really doesn't matter because the package of 400 was only $1.99. I could afford to take two! I bought mine at Marshall's. I snapped them up when I spied them in that impulse section right by the cash registers. I do see they are more expensive at Target but still under $5. </div>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="371" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMKuEM5N92MTTTjT7UOqWj68NjydMKRbQ_Zs9wqXH8CgdW3TvKTM0mgqxUe4BlXR3ziNm9-o6fu3yNrC19hLM6RjhwX0i_5OKJpoeFxEhRvolvy4rlwR0pKclZncsXEN27jXmPOmtqfcs/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-27+at+7.55.23+AM.png" width="231" /><br />
<a href="https://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=goody%20ouchless%20hair%20elastics" target="_blank">Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics</a>
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<b><u>Burt's Bees Peppermint Lip Balm</u></b><br />
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This product is really the balm!! I have been having a problem lately with dry mouth and, after extensive research, have figured out that it is causing my lips to become chapped and very irritated. So, I spent a fortune on lip creams, balms and even resorted to using a lanolin based product that nursing mothers use on cracked nipples. None of them solved my problem until I reached for my daughter's tube of Burt's Bees Peppermint Lip Balm. I don't know if it is the vitamin E or the peppermint oil that calms the irritation immediately and seems to protect my lips from stinging when I eat very spicy foods. I have used an entire tube this summer and cannot live without it. It retails for around $3 a tube, but multi-packs offer more savings.</div>
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<a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Burt-s-Bees-Beeswax-Lip-Balm-0-15-Ounce/22700566?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227016233954&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40843516232&wl4=pla-78656352512&wl5=9003353&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=22700566&wl13=&veh=sem#about-item" target="_blank">Burt's Bees Peppermint Lip Balm</a></div>
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<b>NYX Makeup Setter in Matte Finish</b></div>
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<b> </b>I wear makeup daily, and this product was a game changer for me. Previously, I was finding that my makeup was wearing away during the day. Surprisingly, I would wash my face in the evening to find very little foundation would be left on my face from the day. I am careful not to touch my face ever, but was often embarrassed when a smudge of foundation would transfer to to a person's shirt when I went in for a hug. That's when I took the advise of another blogger, and looked into makeup setter. I learned to spray the setter first, before applying my foundation, to set the stage for a budge-free finish. Then I apply all my makeup and spray again. The key is to spray four times on top of makeup, once in all directions, to set the full face. It has never failed me and I get comments all the time from co-workers about how fresh I still look at the end of the day. No more smudge transfers to clothing either! I purchase the matte finish because I don't like to look shiny, but they do have a dewy finish that I may have to try eventually. When I started buying the product, it retailed for around $5. Probably due to major popularity, the price has gone up a little bit, but don't despair, it's name brand counterparts, like Urban Decay All Nighter, boast a price tag of $15 or more. Yikes!! This is a product I use daily and cannot live without.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmoSpokriCLduqsz5f2x4GOD5bp95mOZ3GhwDQc1z-et4vm1vUhF4BnQijXpTPPdeXeCmRNeTdvpFDmfnaN4zbq5As_5Yq4C3IliwLaTSL0OG5GeevILrYU5-Ew9-z4WIFVCir6813DE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-27+at+7.17.37+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="208" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmoSpokriCLduqsz5f2x4GOD5bp95mOZ3GhwDQc1z-et4vm1vUhF4BnQijXpTPPdeXeCmRNeTdvpFDmfnaN4zbq5As_5Yq4C3IliwLaTSL0OG5GeevILrYU5-Ew9-z4WIFVCir6813DE/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-27+at+7.17.37+AM.png" width="156" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.target.com/p/nyx-professional-174-makeup-matte-finish-makeup-setting-spray-2-03-fl-oz/-/A-14711297?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Health+Beauty+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Health+Beauty&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9003353&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2p_j5aqp1QIVii-BCh3dlAhvEAQYAiABEgLDqvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">NYC Makeup Setting Spray</a></div>
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<b>Sock Liners from GAP Factory</b></div>
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These sock liners are amazing. Let's be real here for a minute, I have a size 10 foot and most socks are snug (at best). I have even had to buy some men's socks to get a proper fit, but this isn't the case with these beauties. They are women's shoe liners and for all purposes, are no show socks. I love the extra padding on the bottom of the sock, but it doesn't seem to take up any additional room in my shoe. I am now wearing these with all of my sneakers and shoes. I will be wearing flats to work soon and these save my pedicure from being ruined and also keep my feet comfortable without any sign of rubbing or chance of foot irritation during the day. I love wearing a thin stockings like these because my feet don't get as tired as I am walking the school hallways and, not to get gross, no foot odor can arise, like when you are sporting your converse barefoot. Joy!! The price online is $6.99, but I scored them for $2.27 because I had an additional 10 percent off and redeemed some rewards. Your price in the store would be $4.99, but here is the real kicker. I opened the package thinking there was one pair, and to my surprise, there were two pairs of socks in each package. So, I got 6 pairs for a whopping $6.81. Score!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="523" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX-LRR7tnhqyMNoR72ZzbGQtbr1oTYvO5DolwmNYFynVltg5dToghxA-QZWRTvamrXU55qB7lU-lmx_4pQw07_iEF12GEqiOk-nRhccn4SRqUtlWNLLZol1uwn36X4k8d8zvmG3Ap4wc/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-27+at+8.21.34+AM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gapfactory.com/browse/product.do?cid=1077356&vid=1&pid=393477001" style="font-size: medium;" target="_blank">Women's Sock Liner</a></td></tr>
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<b>Gold Disk Earrings</b></div>
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As an avid style watcher, I have noticed that statement earrings are all the rage. Who doesn't love a good door knocker hanging from your ear, right? Any hoo, I was naturally obsessed with the earrings seen on my favorite reality television shows. I won't <strike>admit</strike> bore you with how low I have stooped with regard the old boob tube. I am trying to make it right and say it is for research purposes only, but that would be a lie. I will do a post about the withdrawal I suffer because I am planning to clean up my viewing act. Here is an example of the pair of earrings that caught my eye most recently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmH1HXoMEzBbroWlqwl1Hm-XkNcLni8bWlybEoT0-CtTLU5LKaCi1C0mmmtQvieQdD1hWA6fFNJhfNILIAkOpbWn0B5KxTHX2DXcbhrr0wifs4rnXbrweFi70wgJPNPAfUAl8iDbQ2xMw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.01.38+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="361" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmH1HXoMEzBbroWlqwl1Hm-XkNcLni8bWlybEoT0-CtTLU5LKaCi1C0mmmtQvieQdD1hWA6fFNJhfNILIAkOpbWn0B5KxTHX2DXcbhrr0wifs4rnXbrweFi70wgJPNPAfUAl8iDbQ2xMw/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.01.38+AM.png" width="377" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMo2F4w1jgMfIX9Wp8iU-h_cjQWdifYQJjpgBoFO1xRI-hBvnbh4Ba_T9FdVqCTDqvuYJj4tSnj2uV1zfDnwRQX6VrLWoaW41loRN-4gQOo4Ve78Nt3x8JyEHS2YjXVl5wZ4HGhQ7cDc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.01.47+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="393" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMo2F4w1jgMfIX9Wp8iU-h_cjQWdifYQJjpgBoFO1xRI-hBvnbh4Ba_T9FdVqCTDqvuYJj4tSnj2uV1zfDnwRQX6VrLWoaW41loRN-4gQOo4Ve78Nt3x8JyEHS2YjXVl5wZ4HGhQ7cDc/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.01.47+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.hauteheadquarters.com/earrings/lisi-lerch/1367/disk-gold-earrings?source=pepperjam&publisherId=99369&clickId=2035866427" target="_blank">Lisi Lerch Disk Gold Earrings</a> $95</div>
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So, I am walking through Walmart the other day and stopped dead in my tracks when I spied a gold disk earring on a display round. At a whopping $2.88, I couldn't stop myself. I have enjoyed wearing them this summer. I was concerned about the weight of some of the large earrings out there. I wouldn't want anything heavy that would pull on the lobes. These Walmart wonders are light as a feather. Yay me!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRNDM2FLTIHyd4CUHp3fg1mZmEEbKQ71J2-tYo4gmUrWCRsNgxJfFALSRWLgdKA-4g_HoUsy-3yY2e5hUpQTd-1kxJmg8fljrV9Eccqjnm1Mb3i4gKZSG0YN16NWbWrc3-nrfuZdCawtw/s1600/earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRNDM2FLTIHyd4CUHp3fg1mZmEEbKQ71J2-tYo4gmUrWCRsNgxJfFALSRWLgdKA-4g_HoUsy-3yY2e5hUpQTd-1kxJmg8fljrV9Eccqjnm1Mb3i4gKZSG0YN16NWbWrc3-nrfuZdCawtw/s1600/earrings.jpg" /></a></div>
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As an aside, and not part of the 5 under $5 theme, I thought I should mention a great product to help with heavy earrings pulling on the lobes. I recognized I had a problem with my lobes stretching when I started wearing Kendra Scott Jewelry. My daughter turned me on to the Lobe Wonder that we buy right at the Kendra Scott store. They are little patches for the back of the ear to support and not pull on the lobes while you wear your favorite <strike>torture devices</strike> earrings. They range in price from $6-$15 and it looks like there are around 60 patches in the box. Here are some options.<br />
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<img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="518" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_yyePRK_JYqfXqNj8d_-hda5xt19zLng8CYF4DXdcpDIvqfz3ahGE5R_xgnNn8Q3v9981Q9lCWLZWXnapH0H837IBpTx0dlWHyIN3Y2D3QtJoauHAhSXpqKlcSLzuIRnX6-uMv6aqpA/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.38.23+AM.png" width="280" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.claires.com/us/lobe-wonder-earring-support-patches-set-of-60-152429.html?pid=152429&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8s73nf-r1QIV2FYNCh20RAI0EAQYASABEgKD-vD_BwE" target="_blank">Claire's Version but also sold at Walmart</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HyAR6XUALk6d-8zXRtoTcX5NBYO3sPNXRaSJIBWZAZhYB8FiDt9oYklyhsQT_Pu_PK12ARpVyP_cnoxQOfv0uQ943lT2OJOgRyfcWm8B1CXnV77dXW1uHLBDyStRXfYzP4nKjYSvrfc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.34.24+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="349" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HyAR6XUALk6d-8zXRtoTcX5NBYO3sPNXRaSJIBWZAZhYB8FiDt9oYklyhsQT_Pu_PK12ARpVyP_cnoxQOfv0uQ943lT2OJOgRyfcWm8B1CXnV77dXW1uHLBDyStRXfYzP4nKjYSvrfc/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.34.24+AM.png" width="253" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.kendrascott.com/gifts/to-give/top-rated-gifts/842177111314.html?utm_source=google_shopping&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvJuEkv6r1QIVDlgNCh1uUgaKEAQYASABEgKGKPD_BwE" target="_blank">Kendra Scott</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqSdK9F9h4K4gS3GqOtzBuoRvyTF8POXf6-ThFHBtmxOKQnaQ_vFlJocYPZua62fScoYtAgX-4-rdSXZ6uBT-Sb2JkuQNAk6eJ6Fc394f7qL_YmEFrhulZwmWu8yikm2MSsaf5clCiU0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.39.55+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="292" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqSdK9F9h4K4gS3GqOtzBuoRvyTF8POXf6-ThFHBtmxOKQnaQ_vFlJocYPZua62fScoYtAgX-4-rdSXZ6uBT-Sb2JkuQNAk6eJ6Fc394f7qL_YmEFrhulZwmWu8yikm2MSsaf5clCiU0/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-28+at+8.39.55+AM.png" width="230" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.charmingcharlie.com/earlobe-support-patches.html" target="_blank">Charming Charlie</a></div>
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-39828738573490756572017-07-26T20:55:00.000-05:002017-07-26T21:48:38.100-05:00My Favorite Products Summer 2017 I am spending time with friends and family this summer and recently compiled a list of my favorite things. I am excited to share these gems with you and hope you try them and love them as much as I do. I know that a product is a keeper when I share it with my sister and mother and they start using it too (they are a tough crew!). I am going to share five wonderful products, that by the way, I am not getting any payment for endorsing. Sit back, relax and enjoy my favorite things for the summer of 2017.<br />
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<b>Karma Wellness Water</b></div>
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My friend, Liz, introduced me to Karma water and I am in love with this product. It is full of A, E, D, and B vitamins and probiotics. It comes in awesome flavors like pineapple coconut. berry cherry, acai pomberry, and strawberry lemonade, to name a few. I bought these at CVS for between $1.50 - $2.00 per bottle. The calorie count is around 20-30 calories for the entire bottle and my daughter is obsessed with the packaging. You have to lift the label on the lid and then press a button to release the dry mixture into the water. You shake well and then drink. It is very portable and I am sure that I will stock my refrigerator in my classroom with these drinks to quell the late afternoon sweet attacks that are sure to strike. I also love that these drinks are not sickeningly sweet. They are more like a water with a hint of flavor. <br />
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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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-w08cLNkgmXiGix00cogKBdBoZNLGeR5YAk9tvxas8VeGjObZb8_Sp6JVPy7yc70iuXy_Hlvc_U6UoCIgEnMKIclr1HH7KsCy3LshLiQJRhOLiGbI5jZ0jOED0GRP_HcHGGFyi5vaus/s1600/IMG_3458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=karma+wellness+water" border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-w08cLNkgmXiGix00cogKBdBoZNLGeR5YAk9tvxas8VeGjObZb8_Sp6JVPy7yc70iuXy_Hlvc_U6UoCIgEnMKIclr1HH7KsCy3LshLiQJRhOLiGbI5jZ0jOED0GRP_HcHGGFyi5vaus/s640/IMG_3458.JPG" title="Karma Wellness Water on Amazon" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=karma+wellness+water" target="_blank">Karma Wellness Water on Amazon</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM_6D6H0l6nS40He1gTm2FRDoZ9yga0-9GrUEJnLBgsS_q3-Zs1FerMaOkFnluWDk58dFGSk9qIAP2ZBPDa8eMEVQ4rem5OcwgJfsr32CPKlEx9I74eiFjj4di4ZveYqISr7B6FibRzK0/s1600/IMG_3457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM_6D6H0l6nS40He1gTm2FRDoZ9yga0-9GrUEJnLBgsS_q3-Zs1FerMaOkFnluWDk58dFGSk9qIAP2ZBPDa8eMEVQ4rem5OcwgJfsr32CPKlEx9I74eiFjj4di4ZveYqISr7B6FibRzK0/s1600/IMG_3457.JPG" /></a></div>
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<b>Confidence in a Cream</b></div>
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I would consider this product to be a splurge at $48 for 2 fluid ounces. It claims to rejuvenate skin with a creamy emollience that softens skin, but doesn't make it greasy. I am 52 years old (that's probably too much information about a person that you just met, right?) and find that I am dehydrated regularly (more TMI) and my skin will often appear crepey and dry (don't go visual!). I started using this awesome product last winter because my skin was feeling tight and cranky. The assault on my skin was caused by the addition of the dry heat inside as the temperatures outside plummeted. I like to keep the house warm during the day (much to my husband's chagrin), probably around 78 degrees and it was taking a toll on my skin. With one use, my face immediately felt less stressed and my skin felt soft to the touch. It also didn't interfere with my foundation that I applied over the Confidence Cream. Sometimes, my foundation will separate or disintegrate when I use greasy products that claimed mega-hydration. So, I was super skeptical when this product claimed to be emollient, which is really code for greasy. Nope, it was like I gave my skin a huge drink of comfort. I don't have a problem with large pores, so that is a claim that I'm uncertain about. I have average sized pores and the cream didn't settle in the pores or create acne, like some of the other emollient creams I've tried. It also claims to make skin appear younger and make fine lines and wrinkles decrease. I would agree with this claim. I feel my skin looks younger as a function of it being well moisturized without excess grease. If there is one product that you must try, this one is it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0T03DaSTGOt9bDeffWY5XfamgwrVj9irrs7Obxaj9aO6NVQqX5EB_23yyhPOcsdQiCuT-CKJ59n19pMgZMXT8t3ZsYw4hXlHeOfmlFEUF-wkvkwy8qQUR4pwKHfh_Shf2lMQfP28FtB8/s1600/confidence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/a/_/Ntt-confidence%20in%20a%20cream/Nty-1?Dy=1&ciSelector=searchResults" border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0T03DaSTGOt9bDeffWY5XfamgwrVj9irrs7Obxaj9aO6NVQqX5EB_23yyhPOcsdQiCuT-CKJ59n19pMgZMXT8t3ZsYw4hXlHeOfmlFEUF-wkvkwy8qQUR4pwKHfh_Shf2lMQfP28FtB8/s640/confidence.jpg" title="Confidence in a Cream" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=confidence+in+a+cream&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aconfidence+in+a+cream" target="_blank">Confidence in a Cream</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR68zbe3bOzsscQYdCyydV7dSgywtv3RWWfDhyphenhyphenabM-ClxhNuMtDgrT53Kz_DleAqWggfQuiEjjPOdQ-OI5T4UxFem43kzk4VjxiGlTPAdl5U7U9QXI6k3IJr0o_5-1aNluUjubADr14rM/s1600/cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR68zbe3bOzsscQYdCyydV7dSgywtv3RWWfDhyphenhyphenabM-ClxhNuMtDgrT53Kz_DleAqWggfQuiEjjPOdQ-OI5T4UxFem43kzk4VjxiGlTPAdl5U7U9QXI6k3IJr0o_5-1aNluUjubADr14rM/s1600/cream.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Jergen's Bronzer</b></div>
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Okay, I took a different approach to tanning this summer. Since I spend the summer on the Connecticut shore, I was feeling a little pale when we showed up at the end of June. I am a teacher and my skin hadn't seen the light of day since the previous summer, so I decided to take matters into my own hands and "fake bake" until I was able to achieve the real sun kissed glow I desired. I used this great bronzing foam that was easy to spread and soaked into my skin, creating quite a realistic tan in one application. I was not offended by the smell and did take the time to exfoliate before attempting to slather my whole body in this luscious foam. It worked like a charm. I was comfortable enough to wear shorts and sport the old tankini on the beach the very same day! I still use it to even out my tan. I find myself sitting my bottom on the beach chair and not moving until it is time to head home. That being said, the back of my legs don't get much color, so I slather some more foam on after my shower and voila, an even tan. Love, love, love it!!! The price is around $9 and is worth every penny. My daughter caught me using the bronzer and I now have to wrestle her to the ground to get a handful or two. I recommend you hide it if you have any female teenagers in the house. We do laugh at our brown palms if we don't wash our hands quick enough. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwneHHxyJKH2Y6Mxv2DJ_Yhf9PoXyfwAhXyxJ5F-zKuY_rUJUPlcM9pq7oGKw_s6VnJ1dH4IIRcIlDZiTTxtiZSAKVbA_Bjw3NBz-wrdbWpUZ8qwTj6giK9Y0meVlTPQKr8N_qhCS6NmM/s1600/bronze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="180" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwneHHxyJKH2Y6Mxv2DJ_Yhf9PoXyfwAhXyxJ5F-zKuY_rUJUPlcM9pq7oGKw_s6VnJ1dH4IIRcIlDZiTTxtiZSAKVbA_Bjw3NBz-wrdbWpUZ8qwTj6giK9Y0meVlTPQKr8N_qhCS6NmM/s640/bronze.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<b>Benefit Cosmetics "Precisely My Brow" Eyebrow Pencil</b></div>
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I don't know about you, but our Ulta store boasts very little in the way of customer service. The reason I mention this is because the stars must have aligned the day we hit Ulta in Old Saybook. It was music to my ears when the sales person actually asked if she could assist us with anything. My sister stepped up with her priority list and the sales person worked some kind of magic on her eyebrows. Being the older and bossier sister (she calls it "leadership skills"), she insisted I get in the chair and have the lady fill in my brows with this magic pencil made by Benefit. I was sold!! It was the perfect color and camouflaged the sparse hairs that I once called eyebrows. Again, I'm told that this is perfectly normal for a woman of my age, but I'm here to tell you that the hair that used to be on my head and eyebrows is now showing up on my chin and neck. Don't know what that is all about, but I'm just going with it. This Benefit product is awesome. I just outline the shape I want the brow to be, fill it in with the pencil and then use the other brush end of the product to smudge it and make it look very natural. I am using the color #3. Audra, who is much darker, scored a pencil in color #4. I must have lost my mind that day because the pencil, or should I call it gold, retails for $24. The pencil comes in 6 shades, so there is surely a color for everyone. I will let you know if I find a cheaper dupe out there for this product. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfo77MzG5ZADabvTKmVqmHLBTsOeAkUj7dT_bTbz5h2ogO3XFMWy2JG4dXhl5IeZygtsI6CRsEmuqAPiEz7XuxCJmC6KFA4FSNVz1w8rqqJhTbgS-AKalCGbl9UTTfSZxJ4X3nXKir9ao/s1600/brow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfo77MzG5ZADabvTKmVqmHLBTsOeAkUj7dT_bTbz5h2ogO3XFMWy2JG4dXhl5IeZygtsI6CRsEmuqAPiEz7XuxCJmC6KFA4FSNVz1w8rqqJhTbgS-AKalCGbl9UTTfSZxJ4X3nXKir9ao/s1600/brow1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Rosehip Oil</b></div>
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It really seems like this blog should be about my favorite anti-aging products. From a very reliable source (Women's Day Magazine), I learned that rose hip oil helps re-hydrate the thin skin under the eyes that seems to get thinner as I get older. I noticed a huge problem with my under eye skin when I used thicker concealer to disguise my dark circles. The thick concealer really settled into the fine lines under my eyes and made a huge mess and if I added any powder, I looked like the bride of Frankenstein. So I took the advice of my trusty grocery store rag and started applying rose hip oil that I secured from Whole Foods and was satisfied that the oil was stamped "organic." I have later learned from my sister that I need to make sure that I purchase pure rose hip oil that has not been laced with any filler oils (referred to as carrier oils). Yada yada. I have been amazed with the level of hydration I was able to achieve with just a couple drops of this very concentrated oil. It is nothing short of miraculous. My thin, crepey eye skin has flattened out and even plumped up a little. It takes the concealer wonderfully and I even mix it with my concealer if I am using a really thick one like Bye Bye Under Eye. That stuff is like spackle and I only use it in emergency situations, like the nights I lie awake in bed even though I am dog tired and don't catch a single wink of sleep. This goes on for nights on end, and the doctor thinks it's some consolation when she tells me it's part of menopause. I digress, use the rose hip oil and trust me when I tell you that it works wonders. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigFIziGntKtIM1RdbsWV_lJ4RuWTvAFgeKtZET3HJmmIdiPqLVcmUdI-zsDIra9SJdTfNuiamEWMkDJ0SqHyIJrKsNQ-tMJ0pYWVFPqKWTlcAxGhvb2MnjCzE1R34VRDLjy_YR7ygc5Dg/s1600/oil.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="180" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigFIziGntKtIM1RdbsWV_lJ4RuWTvAFgeKtZET3HJmmIdiPqLVcmUdI-zsDIra9SJdTfNuiamEWMkDJ0SqHyIJrKsNQ-tMJ0pYWVFPqKWTlcAxGhvb2MnjCzE1R34VRDLjy_YR7ygc5Dg/s640/oil.png" width="360" /></a></div>
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I hope you enjoyed my 5 favorite products!! After I finished this post, I feel like I should write an entire blog just dedicated to the subject of aging and menopause. I would have enough material to keep me busy for years!! Let me know what some of your fave products are by commenting below. Hope you are having a blessed summer!!<br />
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-23997092133888969672017-07-21T09:23:00.003-05:002017-07-25T19:34:25.121-05:00Front Porch Stylin' I am more than a little obsessed with front porch decor lately. We live outside during the sizzling days of summer and I spend time soaking in the scenery on daily basis. Not only do I drink in the view of the Long Island Sound, but also enjoy spying the luxurious homes bordering the water. The homes sport updated coastal chic decor while maintaining an approachable vibe that lets everyone know they are welcome to visit for a while.<br />
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So, this post will be more show and less tell. I will finish the post with a little before and after makeover I worked on for my mother's front porch. Enjoy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwOrMCtDPTcGuDW-bJv6RNZbQQ7XPLThzJqR2vq-RLHJ4jjw6JwPF3N1z9T4GGOr9rTubjwqUd6uSlylmmFk-J5qH5QApjziJgEaKrCtPHCInz7JgGQvibKla7oU5qYFP_54dzE1QV2I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.48.09+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="581" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwOrMCtDPTcGuDW-bJv6RNZbQQ7XPLThzJqR2vq-RLHJ4jjw6JwPF3N1z9T4GGOr9rTubjwqUd6uSlylmmFk-J5qH5QApjziJgEaKrCtPHCInz7JgGQvibKla7oU5qYFP_54dzE1QV2I/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.48.09+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source Pinterest</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd4DTT3LlSe_LWuv2Ze6XpqFDU8mJZRSC8H7BC0Ax0J9ayPszrTI2Ek8umt6Z3LO4EQjwcijA_ot3x767g-P7iBXQpW3asaPM6XQ1x1vZV2pqn2Nde5LdA2eJ-YQwkcmFcIyJtvqkj2dk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.51.11+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="680" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd4DTT3LlSe_LWuv2Ze6XpqFDU8mJZRSC8H7BC0Ax0J9ayPszrTI2Ek8umt6Z3LO4EQjwcijA_ot3x767g-P7iBXQpW3asaPM6XQ1x1vZV2pqn2Nde5LdA2eJ-YQwkcmFcIyJtvqkj2dk/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.51.11+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source Pinterest</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31y8P5Y2qL7lhmZI2R_jOnhpGXfrRqfVFAD0WNrOiNx3QcMsQ1tfGSMRH_HLTVFXFYIIxksDbZf-ty1xs999nZFMuWs1TDLPWc448rnOdq2RxAY1dkgrRjm7B3R2VOS1Z1Ve91RwkxjU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.50.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="675" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31y8P5Y2qL7lhmZI2R_jOnhpGXfrRqfVFAD0WNrOiNx3QcMsQ1tfGSMRH_HLTVFXFYIIxksDbZf-ty1xs999nZFMuWs1TDLPWc448rnOdq2RxAY1dkgrRjm7B3R2VOS1Z1Ve91RwkxjU/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.50.53+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source Pinterst</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXZoi0dDqbkDDB3Vb7xGOpYR-vlFdcBoUl9ELDso43HYgjbD-JUhgGSJ7vKRMlkr8UnTw65U-tcQnOfhLk99zNzRNYsfhqAXdeEEzKwxP1otOiRvs0nUrHpFP0g8zZMYzl0Q9YisR9mk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.52.06+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="563" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXZoi0dDqbkDDB3Vb7xGOpYR-vlFdcBoUl9ELDso43HYgjbD-JUhgGSJ7vKRMlkr8UnTw65U-tcQnOfhLk99zNzRNYsfhqAXdeEEzKwxP1otOiRvs0nUrHpFP0g8zZMYzl0Q9YisR9mk/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.52.06+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source Pinterest</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMYoAllInfsr0KXo33vyxIACH8EwcVyt_lJSNoGuZQY_KigAU-Q_pH_jbXzuUHjsp5H3N5dihbUZaxJqBjMcmAEu0bpVUUhqLtgQB6zG-WHp5y9rNPMhHKG7ERMJWnKG63p7EzQDPLubE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.52.36+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="562" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMYoAllInfsr0KXo33vyxIACH8EwcVyt_lJSNoGuZQY_KigAU-Q_pH_jbXzuUHjsp5H3N5dihbUZaxJqBjMcmAEu0bpVUUhqLtgQB6zG-WHp5y9rNPMhHKG7ERMJWnKG63p7EzQDPLubE/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-17+at+11.52.36+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source Pinterest</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source Pinterest<br />
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These pictures I shot with my phone this morning on my walk, Excuse the poor quality. I am planning to get a better camera at some point.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4zToLOLRgVezIQj3XjNG2GNQFVT6_mWqh1jzun7YsMoLRLAONGygJ7c4WN1nwm2QZmrUPRPQshyrhLFm3-dJG4O4mFNqLGP02OIJmsWRKRl0ymEwl1NpcqnMz95shYyqjh86NebCMzU/s1600/IMG_3453.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="180" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4zToLOLRgVezIQj3XjNG2GNQFVT6_mWqh1jzun7YsMoLRLAONGygJ7c4WN1nwm2QZmrUPRPQshyrhLFm3-dJG4O4mFNqLGP02OIJmsWRKRl0ymEwl1NpcqnMz95shYyqjh86NebCMzU/s640/IMG_3453.PNG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrhQz3kBfXSmwvIGqwAKOxPhCnCTv2Wc5KqTMYRO3mjYhNj_4OXv1bB2sGNZAc9GvJnrjMhg7B1_OmV2lJmQPiYtGT8g4-ELxODhDlvQcZARWPupp4TjrV8TpVSPiiadkoWqMRf0lAXM/s1600/porch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="180" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrhQz3kBfXSmwvIGqwAKOxPhCnCTv2Wc5KqTMYRO3mjYhNj_4OXv1bB2sGNZAc9GvJnrjMhg7B1_OmV2lJmQPiYtGT8g4-ELxODhDlvQcZARWPupp4TjrV8TpVSPiiadkoWqMRf0lAXM/s640/porch.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqBE5MaQ-70efq9ZGCyErVoekuiLR6L39wYO3BA8TinQo3RnyvOH34f59sCjqsJ3oDkuoF57WRlda9LyrokPfQ4btbrSrNPjfyyummn3ii98rcySQkzPz6VWkwzdeOdYT25_BbMuZSQA/s1600/IMG_3450.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="180" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqBE5MaQ-70efq9ZGCyErVoekuiLR6L39wYO3BA8TinQo3RnyvOH34f59sCjqsJ3oDkuoF57WRlda9LyrokPfQ4btbrSrNPjfyyummn3ii98rcySQkzPz6VWkwzdeOdYT25_BbMuZSQA/s640/IMG_3450.PNG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local</td></tr>
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The following pictures are the makeover I put together for my mother's front porch. It is such a highly visible part of her beautiful home. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother's porch before</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the porch from inside the front door.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After at Mom's house</td></tr>
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Hello, initial, lumbar pillows and rug are from TJ Maxx. Lattice seat cushion from Marshalls. The rest of the accessories I lifted from other parts of the house. </div>
<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-56867831065143768642017-07-19T06:47:00.000-05:002017-07-21T18:13:12.194-05:001944 Circus Fire Hartford, ConnecticutAs promised, I have a great story and some artifacts to share about the July 1944 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. I asked both of my parents to write about their experiences with regard to this historic tragedy that took place in our very own capital city. <br />
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Dad writes this about his recollection of the events of July 6, 1944:<br />
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<span class="s1"> I was almost five years old on July 6, 1944. My mother promised to take me to the circus on Barbour Street in Hartford, about two miles from where we lived on Spring Street. I did not fully realize what a circus was, but I knew that lions and tigers would be there, and I was wildly excited. I remember what a beastly hot day it was as I walked with my mother to G Fox, the local department store, on Main Street where she was going to shop before we headed up to the circus. When we left G Fox, she decided we would not go to the circus because it was too late. I remember clearly my disappointment and the very big fuss I made. We crossed the street to go home and were in front of the Planters Peanuts store across from G Fox when all kinds of sirens began to blare and a barrage of vehicles were running past us, heading up North Main Street. Neither my mother nor I could imagine the horror that was unfolding. Sirens and more sirens persisted. People were huddled together. We walked six blocks home and saw more trucks and cars speeding down Broad Street near where we lived. I now know that the Hartford Armory on Broad Street had served as a temporary morgue. I remember the horrible smell of the fire and the black smoke that covered the whole city. I was not old enough to understand the scope of the tragedy, but the memory of those sights and sounds that day are indelible and as vivid as if it were yesterday.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">My Mother writes what she has been told happened since she was a mere two years old in 1944.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"> The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus arrived in Hartford, Connecticut early in July 1944. The Greatest Show on Earth was highly advertised to the public with banners and brochures prominently displayed in windows of restaurants, markets, clothing stores, street posts, and buses. </span><br />
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<span class="s1"> Although I was only a toddler in 1944, I recall to this day, my parents and grandparents solemnly recounting the story of the circus fire to countless people throughout my childhood. The enormity of the tragedy was not lost on me and I later learned the death toll rose to 167 and Hartford was a city painfully changed forever.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"> My Dad planned to take my brother John to the circus that July 6th and pre-purchased 2 tickets to the matinee performance on Barbour Street in Hartford's north end. My Dad, however, was unexpectedly needed at work and, to their good fortune, they missed the horrendous tragedy at the circus that day.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"> On July 6, 1944 the big top of caught fire during the afternoon performance. Seven thousand people were inside. I refer you to Stewart O'Nan's nonfiction book, <u>The Circus Fire,</u> to read about the tragedy in full detail. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">I had the pleasure to meet Mr. O'Nan at a book luncheon several years ago. After his presentation, I spoke with him and told my family's story of that fateful day. Mr. O'Nan signed a copy of the </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">book for me and in his words wrote: "For Bea, whose Father didn't go. Good Thing." </span><br />
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<span class="s1">I still hold the original 2 circus tickets to the July 6, 1944 performance. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"></span>Thanks for allowing me to share a piece of our family's history with you. I hope you enjoyed it.</div>
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-28988585391577425332017-07-17T08:58:00.003-05:002017-07-30T13:53:45.945-05:00Hunt Breakfast at Griswold Inn<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQY6DCfEXmRqsz8asTL6YFSaJ1J7xh58vocpiGP0FQ7g9qQ6dWBUP3bCNEyWSm5upCqSTWluoLxHP416lID_S_jOF3YCpdk5JX_digbjpwV2qX1TKqMV8AIuCm45rL5pBypaJQzOZi1Fk/s1600/IMG_0149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQY6DCfEXmRqsz8asTL6YFSaJ1J7xh58vocpiGP0FQ7g9qQ6dWBUP3bCNEyWSm5upCqSTWluoLxHP416lID_S_jOF3YCpdk5JX_digbjpwV2qX1TKqMV8AIuCm45rL5pBypaJQzOZi1Fk/s640/IMG_0149.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Audra at The Griswold Inn<br />
Audra's outfit is from the American Eagle Outlet in Clinton<br />
(Funny how the belly button wasn't showing when we bought it, #lifewithateenagedaughter)</td></tr>
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I am thrilled to be able to take you on this fabulous tour of an historic country inn that has served the community for over 200 years! The Griswold Inn is located in scenic Essex, Connecticut. The Inn has been in existence since 1776 and has been serving the Hunt Breakfast, a buffet style spread fit for a king, which was started by the British when they occupied the Inn during the War of 1812. We were celebrating my father's 78th birthday yesterday in style and were wrapped in the 18th century architecture and exquisite Maritime decor befitting this Yankee treasure. Although we didn't stay at the Inn, I'm told it has 33 charming rooms that have beautiful views of the water along with centuries old antiques that furnish the now modernized living quarters.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Omelet Station </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Variety of Salads/ Check out the pictures on the wall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast was served: bacon, eggs, sausage, scones, biscuits</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complete with live music!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary and Dad</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Audra, Uncle Carmine, Aunt Tina, Joann</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sister, her husband, my nephew and his wife and new baby Josephine Rose</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cousin Luke, Aunt Tina, Uncle Carmine, and Dad</td></tr>
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We are just getting acquainted, so in case you are wondering, my husband John, and daughter Amanda are missing. You will be hearing from Amanda in upcoming posts because she is devoting the next two years to mission work and I actually started this blog so we could partner and share her journey. You will meet her soon and I couldn't be more excited for you to see the shining light we call Amanda. My hubs will be joining me in Connecticut before heading back to Texas at the end of the summer. Can't wait for you to meet him!<br />
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Previously, I showed you the outfit I planned on wearing to the party. I have a shot of it and loved the pencil skirt with the understated black top. I changed the necklace and wore a cream, woven necklace with shells hanging from braided twine. A nod to the nautical theme of the day. Anyway, enjoy the pictures.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurie, Dad and Me</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The reason my skirt looks tight!</td></tr>
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Stay tuned because I am working on a really special post that I am asking a guest to write and you won't want to miss it. I don't want to give any more detail because I don't want to spoil the surprise. Alright, here is a hint. It is the anniversary of the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey circus fire that occurred here in Hartford, Connecticut. That's all I'm saying.<br />
<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-64986335964179300962017-07-15T19:29:00.000-05:002017-07-16T18:33:52.430-05:00Thrifting<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaG7SFt2iD35dHChd1shY67Pw6x9zsyS8T0S1Pft0SbPKA-HnY5esDb-KFgh3fofjFSGhRF2LOdwBb0HpUX2TxckUMvGF5f9Y9-uaObf5oGhyphenhyphennejTXWo1uC74RvM6Gqh7W4_eJG-wDxTI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+11.08.09+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="807" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaG7SFt2iD35dHChd1shY67Pw6x9zsyS8T0S1Pft0SbPKA-HnY5esDb-KFgh3fofjFSGhRF2LOdwBb0HpUX2TxckUMvGF5f9Y9-uaObf5oGhyphenhyphennejTXWo1uC74RvM6Gqh7W4_eJG-wDxTI/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+11.08.09+PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Left to Right: Steve (bro in law), My Mom, Audra (my daughter, age 15), Laurie (my sister and Steve's wife)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Audra enjoying a mother/daughter photo opportunity! She indulges me when I take her on these wild goose chases. She laughed a lot today because her Uncle Steve wouldn't stop talking. I told him that he was ruining my thrifting experience.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">We decided to go to a local antique shop in Essex, Connecticut that gets new inventory every week from estate sales. I dub my mother the winner of the day with some really interesting pieces that I am excited to share with you. She found a Wedgewood set of china that includes service for 12 with dinner plates, cups, saucers, dessert plates, salad plates, and a large beautiful oval serving platter to boot. It was priced reasonably at $150 and we later found out on the internet that it is a discontinued pattern and the name of it is Kutani Crane. The following picture is one I found on the internet, but I am also including the photos of the actual pieces she scored. We laughed because to us it looked like a peacock, not a crane. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoN0IvwuVLbt9vM3Umz3lOBTHwLKFeT9yGgccevN5M5iHsLVg921CTsVWZ9gvtqNpiHwEzlvebd60oMNCB3WpYqBntRdZ_6NPJl-8nLDW-8CRe4VZwMZfhEq7YCAXe422PwlevtkursFo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+3.49.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="332" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoN0IvwuVLbt9vM3Umz3lOBTHwLKFeT9yGgccevN5M5iHsLVg921CTsVWZ9gvtqNpiHwEzlvebd60oMNCB3WpYqBntRdZ_6NPJl-8nLDW-8CRe4VZwMZfhEq7YCAXe422PwlevtkursFo/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+3.49.12+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was so excited for mom because she really does not buy much for herself or the home, but I could tell she was lusting after this delicately colorful set with the most beautiful bird at the center of the design. It looks gorgeous in her home that is a mixture of neutral tones with grey tones and white cupboards, built ins and trim. There is a perfect bank of cabinets in the kitchen that serve as china storage and I am planning to decorate them with these lovely dishes so they are on display and will make mom happy every day when she looks at them. Now that she is living in Connecticut full time, after spending a couple of winters in Dallas with us, she will happily set the holiday table and enjoy the china for years to come. <br />
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It appears there are some replacement pieces out there and they are going for a pretty penny on ebay. Here is just a couple of examples of what the pieces are selling for currently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTduLEBOqGdrRKaYDJkEqriB3gxJnBBke2oC_A391m-4lWmPio3InEBeYXjSPjj4MDTee1QSmhx0YGyfkFGD17dgo4DxPsHEObu7iRqmjX-n3SaOUjvfW57_Jd3Rbkes6PNyavD6l2Ws/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+4.01.16+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="130" data-original-width="660" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTduLEBOqGdrRKaYDJkEqriB3gxJnBBke2oC_A391m-4lWmPio3InEBeYXjSPjj4MDTee1QSmhx0YGyfkFGD17dgo4DxPsHEObu7iRqmjX-n3SaOUjvfW57_Jd3Rbkes6PNyavD6l2Ws/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+4.01.16+PM.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Sk5bwDCwjGC2KaRv9i72minXucQcquNgSqL2XqFxWvClKzsgVFPqPsCmo6lPYGf9CM3j5k6vGbXLgDkt6RXzCi3TWCy42p6zSHE46lPdir7oYp0sZ14juzBnJ3AULKFjhQIn1oHT2dY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+4.03.08+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="122" data-original-width="987" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Sk5bwDCwjGC2KaRv9i72minXucQcquNgSqL2XqFxWvClKzsgVFPqPsCmo6lPYGf9CM3j5k6vGbXLgDkt6RXzCi3TWCy42p6zSHE46lPdir7oYp0sZ14juzBnJ3AULKFjhQIn1oHT2dY/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-07-15+at+4.03.08+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here are the pieces after a good washing. They even came with the dust covers which can be expensive to buy them at the store.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwgSEhWI9FwiGdykQgdS8SYuC8I35NPjonnjHEMh7tNRCyn92EuQMUBhuhhtQYc4b9GoONLBa0xLxUv2qjEIu7_1mVTjYYT3PzyT1Y-oxKrZx-2j0WwuIqL4ARi-cNYLdvIKB3WckinU/s1600/IMG_3263-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwgSEhWI9FwiGdykQgdS8SYuC8I35NPjonnjHEMh7tNRCyn92EuQMUBhuhhtQYc4b9GoONLBa0xLxUv2qjEIu7_1mVTjYYT3PzyT1Y-oxKrZx-2j0WwuIqL4ARi-cNYLdvIKB3WckinU/s640/IMG_3263-1.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bird is my favorite.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Already looks great in her house.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The oval platter is my favorite!</span></div>
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Mom showed me her next find and I wasn't sure what to make of it until we looked it up on the internet. She scored a Mikimoto frame for $5. Here is the beauty in it's original box with tag and satin lining. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfSW_ur9Ida5AaZxjmB7_Iflda0sMffgJaC5AJh14HC-k0Dnu2zvkIsZcVKsPKV43tudSjQHkIDIO7mClPNIKX1O01Qlk3V2tM7m71vlzdb2LA9tGL7k0l4HmBLsUzXRz3T5xRNbNIt0/s1600/IMG_3262-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfSW_ur9Ida5AaZxjmB7_Iflda0sMffgJaC5AJh14HC-k0Dnu2zvkIsZcVKsPKV43tudSjQHkIDIO7mClPNIKX1O01Qlk3V2tM7m71vlzdb2LA9tGL7k0l4HmBLsUzXRz3T5xRNbNIt0/s640/IMG_3262-1.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found several of these on ebay and they are asking $50-$90.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> I hesitate to quote these ebay prices because they are asking prices, not the actual amount that the item will be sold for, but I </span><span style="font-size: small;">was encouraged to see that we got a great deal at $5!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Happy thrifting!!</span></div>
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-40659886340364336062017-07-14T22:55:00.004-05:002017-07-15T19:37:36.822-05:00Are We Alone? Ok, before I give my husband access to the blog, I thought I would <strike>talk about my shoe obsession</strike> share my philosophy about shopping and fashion. I am a lover of fashion because I love to play dress up and accessorize on a regular basis for work and pleasure. I am 5'7" tall and wear a standard size medium in tops and an 8/10 in skirts and pants. This affords me the pleasure of being able to shop<br />
"off the rack" and throw caution to the wind without a worry that anything will need to be altered or hemmed. I mention this because my maternal grandmother could buy nothing without alterations and always envied those of us who could shop with reckless abandon and buy and return on a whim. <br />
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My birthday is September 27 and I am a libra which means that I am attracted to pretty things, but my sensible side doesn't like to spend a lot of money. So, I like hunt for my treasures because handing them to me on a silver platter would somehow seem dissatisfying.<br />
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I am fortunate to have some free time this summer and especially enjoy shopping at the nearby TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Clinton Outlets and Westbrook Outlets and thought I would share some pictures of a few treasures I have found in my travels. <br />
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I will be going to a brunch or, as it is properly named, "The Hunt Breakfast" on July 16th at the beautiful Griswold Inn located in picturesque Essex, Connecticut. If you would like to check out the venue or menu, here is the link:<br />
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<a href="http://griswoldinn.com/food-wine/sunday-hunt-breakfast/" target="_blank">http://griswoldinn.com/food-wine/sunday-hunt-breakfast/</a><br />
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This is the outfit that I plan to wear to the event. The shirt is casual with rolled sleeves and is a basic. I paired it with this beautiful striped pencil skirt with side slits from Ann Taylor Loft in Westbrook ($17.99). Told you I love a good bargain. <br />
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The earrings are from Kendra Scott. If you haven't heard of Kendra Scott, she is a jewelry designer from Austin, Texas and her baubles are all the rage. People in other parts of the country weren't familiar with her designs, but lately I'm seeing everyone on television and social media wearing her incredibly versatile pieces. Nordstrom carries portions of her line, but for the full line check out her website at the link below. We are lucky enough to have a Kendra Scott store in Plano, Texas where we live full time. <br />
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I chose to wear wedge heels with the outfit which makes me the jolly green giant, so I would opt for a pair of flat sandals like the ones pictured below if I were attending the event with my husband.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIZcwVwQsCiiSTvIKf8rkce6IfhmjIIqZNEljAcTExNgspHM_yGmO5DqBg6HAHyW_EtVcXPSbQOvJmtVdWzr_s0dGW92qRX8DJ2TOqJoSOWDxx4QW8GixzxHX8UfayRbRMupx_QsTOfI/s1600/brunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIZcwVwQsCiiSTvIKf8rkce6IfhmjIIqZNEljAcTExNgspHM_yGmO5DqBg6HAHyW_EtVcXPSbQOvJmtVdWzr_s0dGW92qRX8DJ2TOqJoSOWDxx4QW8GixzxHX8UfayRbRMupx_QsTOfI/s640/brunch.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.target.com/p/women-s-slouchy-muscle-tank-who-what-wear-153/-/A-51812241#lnk=sametab&preselect=51661030" target="_blank">Tee Shirt</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.kendrascott.com/homepage?gclid=CKvujtavitUCFZxXDQodJ04GcQ" target="_blank">Kendra Scott Bracelet/Earrings</a><br />
<a href="http://www.qvc.com/Franco-Sarto-Leather-T-strap-Wedges---Swerve.product.A265604.html" target="_blank">Wedge Sandals</a><br />
Tassel Necklace, skirt Ann Taylor Loft (no website available)<br />
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Jessica Simpson Sandals from Marshals<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwY_YtCW-ujccarRyGR06igZxAIsMV8pjZDUzgRNwgvy4c7Zl0SsIPG8JWuDDzwrsAIRG3Dq7ZTvW0uwoyGeEIiVXj34j4cdzdCZ5xhplIdix-v0pqDjyCvEhXs8bNTxuXkmrwnZagzIw/s1600/sandals2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwY_YtCW-ujccarRyGR06igZxAIsMV8pjZDUzgRNwgvy4c7Zl0SsIPG8JWuDDzwrsAIRG3Dq7ZTvW0uwoyGeEIiVXj34j4cdzdCZ5xhplIdix-v0pqDjyCvEhXs8bNTxuXkmrwnZagzIw/s640/sandals2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Kate Spade Sandals with Tassels from TJ Maxx $36.00 (love)<br />
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Embellished Sandals TJ Maxx<br />
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I wear a size 10 shoe and I just happened to hit the jackpot with the beauties. There was a large<br />
selection of footwear at the stores we were at, but I am particularly loving the Kate Spade black tassel sandals. I will wear these a ton for work. <br />
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Since I am still getting the hang of blogging, I have gotten the product links to work but need to improve the quality of those. I will include more pictures of people in upcoming posts because I enjoy seeing the fashions on real people, but for now enjoy the goodies and happy shopping!<br />
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-88334043382622219802017-07-13T20:29:00.002-05:002017-07-13T20:50:53.149-05:00Beach HappeningsI just wanted to share a couple of sunset pictures from our vacation spot in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. I grew up in Connecticut, but have lived in Texas for the past 22 years. We escape the Texas heat and stay in Connecticut for the entire summer and I feel so blessed to be able to spend the time with our friends and family. My daughters feel a part of this wonderful community and my youngest wouldn't spend her summer any other way. As they say " A bad day at the beach is still better than a good day at work!"<br />
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3306628953368305571.post-56174079392868746372017-07-13T18:48:00.002-05:002017-07-13T20:51:27.858-05:00Coconut MacaroonsIn the spirit of summer fun at the beach, I have been experimenting with desserts and came up with this delicious and tempting recipe for coconut macaroons. <br />
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It is simply four ingredients:<br />
1 can sweetened condensed milk<br />
1 8 oz. pkg. organic unsweetened coconut<br />
1/2 cup dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate morsels<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
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Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until all of the coconut is coated with the condensed milk.<br />
(You can add chopped almonds for an almond joy coconut macaroon)<br />
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Spoon a dollop of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprayed with cooking spray.<br />
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Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes or until the edges are beginning to turn golden brown and caramelized. Yum!!<br />
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Cool and enjoy!<br />
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<br />We Have It Togetherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00512455897460871208noreply@blogger.com4