tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68220228612912245492024-03-13T07:49:52.023-07:00{Two.Shades.of.Lovely}Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-3187314759063788062012-11-13T08:23:00.000-08:002012-11-13T08:23:09.860-08:00{Loving Lately} - Tis' the Season for Everything Pumpkin!<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When I was younger, I would never eat pumpkin ANYTHING - after my first carving experience, the "guts" were gross enough to deter me from pumpkin until I started becoming a more "daring" (and by daring I mean something other than ranch dressing on my salads, eating that tiny corn, and ordering something at a restaurant without "hold the..." being uttered and receiving eye rolls from my dinner date) eater at the age of 21.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There are things that I'm NOT glad that I tried (onions, let's face it, you and I will never be friends), but I am very glad I gave pumpkin another shot, and it's something I enjoy baking with, especially during this season!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lately...I'm loving everything PUMPKIN!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Below are some of my favorite pumpkin recipes, decorations, and all things pumpkin!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'll include a recipe for my "Microwave 10-Minute Pumpkin Cake" too!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQ10v4eQnjDFx_O2u7HI4vmTZAr8YYle7yGkOtm2dkPhhKiNUH35XEvQC_BJ-TeCB96S05ZMIgAohGvmmWbgUuCOuBk5-hecJAERiF7BV7gIjnpIBPzfJ_ojwjLpQf1j53iALF2IysQLs/s1600/pumpkincollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQ10v4eQnjDFx_O2u7HI4vmTZAr8YYle7yGkOtm2dkPhhKiNUH35XEvQC_BJ-TeCB96S05ZMIgAohGvmmWbgUuCOuBk5-hecJAERiF7BV7gIjnpIBPzfJ_ojwjLpQf1j53iALF2IysQLs/s640/pumpkincollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.recipegirl.com/2011/10/27/starbucks-pumpkin-scones/" target="_blank">these</a> pumpkin scones (perfect with a pumpkin spice latte!) from <a href="http://www.recipegirl.com/2011/10/27/starbucks-pumpkin-scones/" target="_blank">recipe girl.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dreyne" target="_blank">these</a> little burlap pumpkins from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dreyne" target="_blank">wonderful little things on etsy</a> (an easy decoration that works for the whole season!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://shabbylaneshops.blogspot.com/2010/10/diy-vintage-inspired-pantyhose-pumpkin.html" target="_blank">this </a>beautiful pumpkin decoration - using your average panty hose!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.littlemissmomma.com/2012/05/pumpkin-whoopie-pies.html" target="_blank">these</a> whoopie pies from little miss momma - any recipe with "whooopiiiie" and pumpkin in the title is good for me! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">this list wouldn't be complete without a <a href="http://www.peanutbutterandpeppers.com/2012/08/24/drink-your-pie/" target="_blank">delicious skinny pumpkin latte</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://thefrugalgirls.com/2011/10/pumpkin-cheesecake-truffles-recipe.html" target="_blank">these </a>yummy (and low-ish cal!) <a href="http://thefrugalgirls.com/2011/10/pumpkin-cheesecake-truffles-recipe.html" target="_blank">pumpkin cheesecake truffles</a> from the frugal girls</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">OK...so most of these things are totally decadent and sweet - but tis' the season, and thanks to clever baking and ingredient swaps, these treats can be low cal too! </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now...the easy recipe - for perfect every time 10-Minute Microwave Pumpkin Cake</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFuTXGmAVPrn45HFYZaoxvKcW0nByVmODL_pcZjogOIyOGBMoSPUKL-svCZLnzJ5MG3zYrX0m0Rop07BYq49RO-tsn2MhD5J41mtaMUAicQxsKGKSsqwy8y2WDUBEqcpHmysW_6ZoIIu8/s1600/pumpkiningredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFuTXGmAVPrn45HFYZaoxvKcW0nByVmODL_pcZjogOIyOGBMoSPUKL-svCZLnzJ5MG3zYrX0m0Rop07BYq49RO-tsn2MhD5J41mtaMUAicQxsKGKSsqwy8y2WDUBEqcpHmysW_6ZoIIu8/s400/pumpkiningredients.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eqdMqua8jHBPmA89lGSPn-75v11TTwQgfylXMz6aV0o1FF27pozJay-H-NSiOqqFKhmI-C9EtKYj6JbspyFYJemgX5tiwogDRHgFjjYEY4jfWT-FT_2GJxQdOLK7DlWMa72KokEO72SM/s1600/pumpkinbakecollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eqdMqua8jHBPmA89lGSPn-75v11TTwQgfylXMz6aV0o1FF27pozJay-H-NSiOqqFKhmI-C9EtKYj6JbspyFYJemgX5tiwogDRHgFjjYEY4jfWT-FT_2GJxQdOLK7DlWMa72KokEO72SM/s640/pumpkinbakecollage.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">First, mix your yellow cake mix, pumpkin, and eggs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Poor batter into your <a href="http://www.my.tupperware.com/jeniquillen" target="_blank">Tupperware Stack Cooker.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Microwave for 10 minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Let cool for 1-2 minutes</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Flip over onto plate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Top with cool whip/whip creamed mixed with a tablespoon of vanilla, and a teaspoon of cinnamon (optional) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Enjoy! Simple as that!</span><b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-57529356147853420162012-11-07T22:17:00.001-08:002012-11-07T22:17:51.647-08:00Back on the blog....my way.<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Daily posts full of amazing DIY projects, tasty recipes, and amazing advice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Impeccable photos of outfits of the day, new shop items, and beautiful families.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Linking up here, guest posting there, tweeting this, giving away that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Inspiring other bloggers, paving the way for us new girls.</span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">...that's what amazing bloggers are made of.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These are the ladies I envy. The bloggers that have made this journey their job, their hobby, and a part of themselves. The ladies that have the creativity to take their handmade business to great heights, but the confidence to post about those struggles too.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For as long as I've had my blog, I aspired to be like them.</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I searched and searched my creative being to find that "one" product that I would make that would bring me success.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I started a blog, in hopes of connecting with countless people, and becoming a household name like many of them are to me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After the late nights up writing, lunch hours spent DIY-ing to make a "deadline", and the stress I was starting to feel, I stopped loving to write. I stopped loving making things. And as horrible as it sounds, I almost started resenting and becoming jealous of those bloggers that I once envied.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The whole reason I started a blog was to have a positive outlet, to write bits and pieces of my life, to share some creative ideas, and to be able to make this into a hobby that would encourage self growth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">But at that point I started asking myself why I wasn't "good enough" or what I was even doing writing a blog...and that was draining.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Why couldn't I bare my soul like those women so easily could?</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Why weren't my DIY projects as innovative and adorable as theirs?</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Why couldn't I experience amazing growth like into having hundreds of followers like them?</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>Why didn't I write with the passion and devotedness that was portrayed in many of their posts?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">...and even if it took me 2 weeks of essentially "abandoning" my blog, I came to a realization...I wasn't them. I enjoy reading each of the above blogs daily, but part of the reason why I enjoy reading them so much is that they are all so different. And that is when it hit me.....that is where the beauty in having YOUR blog lies....being able to express yourself in whatever way you wish.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I may never hit 1,000 likes, or have 100 sales on my etsy shoppe.....but at the end of the day, that's ok.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm back on the blog, and have a renewed sense of self...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am a full-time working momma, with a family of boys that is both awkward and awesome.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I spend my free time building my <a href="http://www.my.tupperware.com/jeniquillen" target="_blank">Tupperware business</a>, spending time with friends, and enjoying the days that are going by entirely too quickly with my family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I enjoy DIY-ing, but never take pictures.</span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">{and am usually too lazy to re-do the craft to make a tutorial.}</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I don't cook entirely fancy great recipes - but I do make some pretty awesome recipes with my crock pot and Tupperware Stack Cooker.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I may post sporadically, and they may not be adorned with gorgeous photography, or ridiculously adorable DIY projects, but they will be 100% me, and for that, I hope you keep following and enjoying this little corner of my world. </span>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-49772338089707203552012-10-18T13:52:00.002-07:002012-10-18T13:52:38.929-07:00It's Ok Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Its Ok Thursdays" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns/Buttons/ItsOkThursdaysButton.png" /></a> </div>
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IT'S OKAY<br />
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- to take an entire week off of work, and not feel bad about it {even if you don't have many plans at all!}<br />
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- that I still firmly believe in family Halloween costumes {I'm going to take advantage of the cheesy-ness for as long as I can - watch out, the Quillens will be Monsters Inc. characters this year!}<br />
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- to skim past political posts on facebook - even if they are from dear friends. This time of the year is tiring, and I'll keep my issues and opinions...mine.<br />
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<img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-5755" height="290" src="http://acompletewasteofmakeup.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/UBS-300x218.jpeg" title="UBS" width="400" /></div>
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- to spend extra time cuddling, and less time getting ready for the day.<br />
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- to save a little money on cable, and catch up on all of my tv shows a day late on Hulu.<br />
<a href="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/146015212889042859_qTB60sIf_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
- that my average Pinterest Success rate is about at 60% {note to self, just buy dang curtains - painting them is a horrible idea!}<br />
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- to brag about my husband - the chocolate chip pancake making, love note writing, rose buying, anniversary surprising, handsome, sarcastic, witty man that he is!<br />
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- not to open the door for the FedEx guy...not because you don't hear him, but because you're in your pajamas!<br />
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And finally....it's ok to listen to Oprah, and surround yourself only with people that are going to bring you higher.<br />
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Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-53754974354784941412012-10-15T08:50:00.002-07:002012-10-15T08:50:14.039-07:00The Wife I want to Be - {Husbands Need Love Too}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zCihcp3vtGui_1NQNRQYNGVRl0uBY2rzRI8bXs_PiHOt2gqoI2X3E2KcTGazFqqoH2MreBec29y_wdrBKVgCEDG5uEWl5_rdlaGe7kdcatQsuG5pqTuspsuT9BP-8LEqjy6pggE_lLum/s1600/IMG_0838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zCihcp3vtGui_1NQNRQYNGVRl0uBY2rzRI8bXs_PiHOt2gqoI2X3E2KcTGazFqqoH2MreBec29y_wdrBKVgCEDG5uEWl5_rdlaGe7kdcatQsuG5pqTuspsuT9BP-8LEqjy6pggE_lLum/s400/IMG_0838.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Before I met Mike, I thought I had fallen in love before.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I believe that often times, your true love isn't your first.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">But I also believe that it is one thing to fall in love, and another thing to stay in love.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Once those <span style="font-size: x-small;">"butterflies" </span>and <span style="font-size: x-small;">"head over heels" </span>have dissipated, what do you have left? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My previous relationships were <strike>stubborn</strike>,<b> jealous</b>, <i>insecure</i>, with a <u><i>touch of drama</i></u>. At the time, I thought that's how relationships were supposed to be - like those depicted in a bad episode of Gossip Girl or 90210.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">..until I met Mike.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The minute I met eyes with him, something changed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A giant weight of insecurity and jealousy was lifted from me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This whole <i>"love"</i> thing came awfully easily, and it was actually <u>fun</u>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I saw a man who was so secure with himself, so morally sound, content and kind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">...and I wanted to be better for him.</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I wanted to be kinder.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">more truthful <i>{with myself and others}</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">gentler.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mike was the kind of man my grandmother told me about. He was the man that encouraged me to change, and grow in our relationship , that made me want to be a better person. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I wanted to be the kind of woman that Mike deserved.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We will be celebrating our 2nd wedding anniversary <b>TOMORROW</b> - October 16th. In two short years, we have welcomed our first child, moved {twice}, experienced job layoffs and promotions, and various other life experiences - and each day, is a day that I have to work at being the kind of wife and mother I want to be. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It has gotten easier with time, and it's hard to say this, but being that kind of gentle, kind, understanding wife, <u>is hard for me</u>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am not perfect, I still <i>like</i> to be right {although I don't have to be all of the time}, and sometimes I even don't live by my own words, and I don't cherish the little things, <u>but I'm working on it.</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm working on not going to bed stressed out or unhappy - ending each night with a goodnight kiss.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm working on being understanding when things don't go as planned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm working on saying thank you, any chance that I get, and not holding grudges for longer than necessary {perhaps my greatest challenge}</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6Q8PPbw50MPrWeQu6FH-gjmJZnMHRkDyoyJLHNQcPcuy8KP1jkanThUH_9M3qDYF2kz6s0Ee9RGEFTNUNEtbYWaxFb7X-kFuIiBXcJIvTrF_f9FQAjzBgjCEddnMkrK0fmtIzU6FnxZ6/s1600/IMG_0923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6Q8PPbw50MPrWeQu6FH-gjmJZnMHRkDyoyJLHNQcPcuy8KP1jkanThUH_9M3qDYF2kz6s0Ee9RGEFTNUNEtbYWaxFb7X-kFuIiBXcJIvTrF_f9FQAjzBgjCEddnMkrK0fmtIzU6FnxZ6/s400/IMG_0923.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">...Because it's the least I can do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mike might be part superhero - putting up with all that he does.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">He entertains all of my crazy ideas - without a single eye roll, heavy sigh, or doubt.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">He loves our son unconditionally - during sleepless nights, and 2 year old tantrums.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">He provides for our family - even when it's not easy, but he does it with a smile on his face.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">He does whatever he can to make me happy - the big things, and the small {even when the small thing is a late night run to a store across town for that one sugary treat that I like}.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've been blessed to share my life with a man as caring, selfless, and genuine as my husband.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">He loves me just the way I am - insecurities, faults, habits, and all. When I do slip on trying to be the wife I want him to have, he's there, open arms and all, and for that, I couldn't be happier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Happy Anniversary Babe - it's been quite a journey, and it'd be an understatement to say I can't wait see forever with you.</span></span></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- Husbands need love too is a way to show our husbands how much we love them by spotlighting them on our blog! <b>So, the post must be to your husband, about him, from him, a vlog of yall together. Something that highlights your love for him. :)</b></div>
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<b>- Must follow Host & Co-host blogs via GFC</b><br />
<b>{We are the first ones linked up}</b></div>
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<b><u>Extra:</u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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- Grab a button and put it on your sidebar</div>
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- Tweet about it</div>
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- Visit a few other blogs and show them some love<br />
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Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-10316797198231572972012-10-14T00:48:00.000-07:002012-10-14T00:48:47.514-07:00Friend....less?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/77476056059131819_Uid28CvZ_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/77476056059131819_Uid28CvZ_c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://air-we-inspire.livejournal.com/61649.html" target="_blank">{via}</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">*It took me a very long time to post this....and by long time, I mean about 3 weeks. Although many people do not read my blog,
some of those that do are friends of mine outside of "blog land." I am
trying to overcome many of the insecurities that I have - and writing
about them has been a tremendously freeing experience. But I will also
admit, another insecurity of mine is appearing vulnerable - and exposing
some of my feelings, especially to those that are close to me.*</span></span></div>
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I may be alone on this one - but it seems like between a marriage, work, family, and the other "little things" we call life, it is hard to build strong friendships. Sure, I have friends. Friends that I care about dearly, and would go to the end of the earth for in fact. </div>
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But there was a time when I had a very close group of girlfriends. Girls that I knew I could trust with world, knew I could count on, and knew I could go to for spur of the moment shopping trips or boy advice. As I grow older, I feel like that sense of security in having a "best friend' has gone, and although I have a close group of people that I love dearly, I still miss that feeling of having a "best friend". </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I feel like I'm missing the friend that you can call any time</span>.</div>
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<i> {and at the drop of a hat will meet you for sushi or shopping.}</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The friend that knows you inside and out. </span></div>
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<i>{and can tell you what's wrong with you probably even before you can.}</i> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The friend that shows up to your doorstep after a rough day. </span></div>
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<i>{wine and cookie dough in hand</i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i> .}</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The friend that spend nights in with you.</span></div>
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<i> {when you need a night off.} </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">and will shake it til' the break of dawn with you. </span></div>
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<i>{when you just need to go out.} </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The friend who has kept secrets safe for years.</span> </div>
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<i>{even when you did something horribly stupid.}</i><br />
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<i> </i></div>
Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-889091290414895212012-10-03T19:57:00.000-07:002012-10-03T19:57:03.904-07:00Thrifting Tips by Jana Faith<div style="text-align: center;">
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If you've been following the Two.Shades.of.Lovely blog at all - you probably know I'm in a bit of of a writing funk. Lucky for me, when that happens, I have great bloggy friends that are there to pick me up - and Jana is here today to share with you some awesome thrifting tips!</div>
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Hola chicos y chiquititas! Okay....so I don't <i>actually </i>speak Spanish but one of my superpowers is that I teach first grade. So that counts, right? I'm Jana Faith and I started blogging to write about fashion. </div>
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<a href="http://s613.photobucket.com/albums/tt220/bananachica1/?action=view&current=SmileyWallHorizon.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="SmileyWallHorizon" border="0" src="http://i613.photobucket.com/albums/tt220/bananachica1/SmileyWallHorizon.jpg" /></a></div>
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My favorite color is pink. I love Valentine's Day. Glitter and sequins make my heart pitter patter and I'm crazy about my husband. My lil' blog is still pretty true to its roots. I'm not the most consistent lady in the world.... I like to write about fashion and thrifting. I'm pretty sure thrifting should be a sport. It definitely increases my heart rate. Did you know "a person weighing 125 pounds burns 132 calories in an hour of shopping"? (I didn't make that up. Check my <a href="http://calories-burned.findthedata.org/q/137/30/How-many-calories-do-you-burn-Shopping-except-groceries-food-and-gas" target="_blank">source</a>) <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Did I mention that I'm random, too?)</span> </div>
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Speaking of thrifting... let me tell you my tips on how to "Score at a Thrift Store"</div>
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<ol>
<li>Go several times to make up your mind about whether it's a "good one" or not.</li>
<li>Look at everything!</li>
<li>Try on lots of things!</li>
<li>Look up Thrift Stores in your area. Make a list. Hit them all. Not in the same day...</li>
<li>Don't rush. Take. Your. Time. </li>
<li>Go different times of year. Sometimes you'll find Christmas stuff in
July. Sometimes you'll find Halloween stuff after Halloween. I find
great sweaters and hoodies in summer. (Sometimes I don't buy them
because winter attire makes me feel trapped. I should probably get over
that...)</li>
<li>You can get great stuff for those Pinterest Projects at thrift stores! <br />
</li>
<li>Most thrift stores are not in the most savory parts of town. Try to go in the a.m. or early afternoon. </li>
<li>Look at things with open eyes. Think about whether you could alter
the piece to make it work for you. I cut out shoulder pads. I had a
friend hem a dress. With furniture and home decor - could you paint it?
Is it a good shape for a redo? Don't box yourself in when looking at
things. </li>
<li>Everything is washable. True story. If you only look for pristine,
new stuff in thrift stores, tough nuggets people -odds are strong you
won't find it. </li>
<li>Sometimes you get lucky and find brand, spanking, new stuff - tags
still on it - in thrift stores. Know what makes my heart skip a beat?
Deadstock, vintage. Sometimes I find vintage with the tags still on it. </li>
<li>Lots of trends that are currently in Forever 21 can be found in
thrift stores. Be aware of trends you see - "Jana, I don't have time for
that!" Sure you do! If you follow blogs, there are lots of trends
there. Observe magazine covers while standing in line at the grocery
store. Without looking creepery, scope out what young folks are wearing.
They're all about the trendy stuff. </li>
<li>Look for things other than clothing -I've purchased books for my
classroom, wall hangings for home, chairs to redo (still on my to do
list), figurines for my home, music (records, cds, 8-tracks), amazing
vintage dishes, etc. </li>
<li>Most thrift stores have a certain day of the week they put out new
merchandise. If you're all about finding the new stuff, you can inquire
about what days they put out new merchandise. </li>
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I'd love to have some new visitors. I like to write about fashion, thrifting, teaching first grade, being married to hubbalicious, and the occasional DIY. <br />
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Here are a few of my most popular posts.<br />
<ol>
<li> <a href="http://everydayisyourrunwayownit.blogspot.com/2012/05/theres-whole-galaxy.html" target="_blank">There's a Whole Galaxy </a><br /><a href="http://s613.photobucket.com/albums/tt220/bananachica1/?action=view&current=GalaxyPants83.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="GalaxyPants83" border="0" src="http://i613.photobucket.com/albums/tt220/bananachica1/GalaxyPants83.jpg" /></a></li>
<li><a href="http://everydayisyourrunwayownit.blogspot.com/2010/12/vision-vanity.html" target="_blank">Vision Vanity</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://everydayisyourrunwayownit.blogspot.com/2012/08/i-wanna-be-supermodel.html" target="_blank">I Wanna Be a Supermodel</a><br /><br /> </li>
</ol>
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<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i613.photobucket.com/albums/tt220/bananachica1/BlogSignature.png" /></div>
Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-45977939935889047432012-09-29T23:22:00.003-07:002012-09-29T23:22:24.494-07:00{Sunday Social} - Childhood<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" title="Sunday Social"><img alt="Sunday Social" border="0" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns/Buttons/SocialSundayButton3.png" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="195" /></a></div>
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It’s Sunday Social time again with <a href="http://www.acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><u>Neely</u></span></a> & <a href="http://ashleyscarnivalride.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><u>Ashley</u></span></a>,
and ho doesn't like a little trip down an awkward hair, horrific outfit lined memory lane?!</div>
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<strong>1. What do you miss most about being a kid?</strong></div>
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What don't I miss? <b>Forts</b>, a lack of responsibility, sleeping in, LA Gear light up tennis shoes....being a kid was pretty much amazing. </div>
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<br /><strong>2. Did you have a nickname growing up? What was it?</strong></div>
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Not one that ever stuck. My grandpa called me "<i>Muffin</i>", my sports teammates called me numerous things (including <i>Sweet Chicken</i> and <i>Mustang Sally</i>), and occasionally I was referred to as "<i>Kini</i>".</div>
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Perhaps one of the greatest burdens of my maiden name was that it sounded oddly similar to "<strike>sperm</strike>" with "ling" on the end. In high school, that led to a whole slew of horrific and perverted nicknames I won't mention!</div>
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<br /><strong>3. What was your favorite thing to do at recess?</strong></div>
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Other girls at my school loved the bars - but I preferred a good ol' fashioned game of "Wall Ball" or even foursquare. Tether-ball on the other hand was not my game - "<b>Rope-ies</b>" what a dumb rule ;) <strong><br /></strong></div>
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<br /><strong>4. What did you want to be when you grew up?</strong></div>
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At my fifth grade graduation - I stood up in front of everyone and said I wanted to be a <u>meteorologist</u>. </div>
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That lesson about clouds really must have really had an impact on me.</div>
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<br /><strong>5. What was your favorite toy?</strong></div>
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I was really into this old cash register that my mom bought at a garage sale. I was an only child, so I had to have an imagination...and that cash register was just the ticket! </div>
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<br /><strong>6. What is the funniest thing you did as a kid that your parents still remind you about?</strong></div>
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Again, I was an only child - so all of those embarrassing family photos and videos were starring a certain little ham of a child - ME.</div>
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<br />I get reminded about my various musical numbers (Top hits were "Pumpernickel up in the ol' Gum Tree" and "The Bear ate the Frog, the Frog ate the Mouse...") often. My parents also don't let me live down the time that I stepped in dog poop...only to think that my foot was melting off, real tears and all.</div>
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Now if that doesn't give you an awkward, slightly pathetic view into my childhood, I don't know what will! I can't wait to read all of your posts on your childhood adventures!</div>
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Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-71724143796229270322012-09-18T11:35:00.003-07:002012-09-18T11:35:51.838-07:00Me, Myself, & I <br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From her Current Crush Link-up, to her Christmas in July sales, </span><a href="http://www.framedfrosting.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Danielle over at Framed Frosting</span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> is a woman after my own heart - she's always got something going on that I want to be a part of, and this link-up is no exception. She is co-hosting, and I had to take the </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think as women, many of us are spread so thin, and often times the first thing to be put on the back burner is ourselves. It's nice to take a minute or two and focus on "ME" - and hopefully it's a little way that each of you can get to know me a little better as well! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>1. When you're feeling down, what do you do to pick yourself up? </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My infamous <strong><span style="font-size: large;">"Whine and Wine"</span></strong> nights seem to always do the trick. 1 part good friend, 1 part wine (junk food optional) and some whining usually solves any sort of little funk.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If I'm really down, reading to Noah always brings me back down to earth and eases me. Nothing a little "Where the Wild Things Are" or Dr. Seuss therapy can't fix. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>2. If you had to live in a different time period, which would you prefer? </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've said it before, and I'll say it again, I'd love to live in the 1960's for the styles alone. Those crisp lines, and killer structure to the fashion then <em>(think MadMen)</em> is to die for.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's a tight race with the 1980's though - any excuse to crimp my hair and bust out the leg warmers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong> 3. What is the most creative Halloween costume you've ever worn? </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love Halloween - and always come up with really great ideas early in the year - and forget them by the time Halloween rolls around.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, having a little one, Halloween has taken on a life of it's own. I'm that cheesy mom that loves the idea of family themed costumes - last year we were Clark Kent, Superman, and Wonder Woman - this year there is a family debate between <em>Monsters Inc</em>, <em>Batman,</em> and <em>Where the Wild Things Are.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <strong>4. Five weird things about you we wouldn't know without being told? </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>a.</strong> Some call it soothing, but the sound of crickets at night, irks me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>b.</strong> My fear of water is not due to the depth or fear of drowning, but rather the fish that lurk in the water that could potentially suck on my toes!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>c.</strong> I have the taste buds of a 5 year old - ketchup only on my hot dogs, plain sandwiches, and chicken nuggets are ok with me!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>d.</strong>I have never watched any of the Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, or Matrix movies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>e.</strong> I would take a vacation to Ireland or an Alaskan cruise over a tropical getaway any day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong> 5. What would you tell your 16-year-old self? </strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't be afraid to be yourself. Staying true to yourself and your beliefs is much more valuable than any Homecoming Crown or Varsity position you could have.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">{lovely sponsor}</span><a href="http://www.vanillaslumber.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" hea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZd-Q4XlWEb5lXehnIAg_q4_BlaH0XbBVB0SWCiv7msauY5rZeB3K0GyJOVpcMIBCcGogo8MhJS07mxAHB5etrjfozPcX0Fesv7ix1aeyoL-iSj2fSPYUy3PYW0wjkdaTfjPpy9Ir0xvf/s1600/mileinhershoes.jpg" /></a><br />
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Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-55183174055912344222012-09-14T22:01:00.000-07:002012-09-14T22:01:39.563-07:00Husbands Need Love Too! {Link-Up!}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Every household has a "<b>rock</b>".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A <b>rock</b> is the person that remains calm in the face of chaos.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Soothes those that are edging toward meltdown or sucummbing to stress.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stops at nothing to ensure their family is taken care of and provided for.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Provides a sense of security and well-being for everyone in that house.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And is steady - <u>always someone you can count on</u>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Commonly, when I think of that "<b>rock</b>" I usually think of the mother of the house. The rock is the woman that cooks, cleans, runs children from point A to point B, all while remaining put together and organized. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">I, am not that rock.</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It took me a long time to come to terms with this - I struggled with the feeling of failing, that I was not doing my job as a wife or mother, if I did not feel like I was the rock of our household....that is, until I realized that our household is not without that "rock"...<span style="font-size: x-small;">it is just not me.<span id="goog_1755732064"></span><span id="goog_1755732065"></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>My husband is our rock.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My best friend, my husband, and a strong contender for the best father in the universe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He overcomes some of the largest obstacles we have faced with ease and grace.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He loves with a heart that is full of unconditional love and understanding.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He never goes a day without having fun <i>(perhaps one of the greatest qualities of his I admire).</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I fell head over heels for my husband, when his jokes kept me <u>laughing</u>, his charm kept me <i>smiling</i>, and his wit kept me <u>on my toes</u> <i>(it didn't hurt that he wasn't hard on the eyes either!).</i> And years later, I fall in love a little more everyday, especially when I get to watch him with our son. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Something changes in a man when they become a father - and although he still doles out his sarcastic remarks and is never above a good fart joke, there is a new <i>softness</i> to him - a little glimmer in his eyes when he tucks in our son or reads him a bedtime story - <b>and that quality alone reminds me of what a great husband I was blessed with.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life gets busy - and often times these little things go seemingly unnoticed. As I write about my life in my blog, I hardly ever mention - that while I'm running from place to place to finish up a DIY project, taking part in craft bazaars, or stressing about upcoming events, that it's my husband that steps it up - cooking meals, cleaning the house, taking on every role imagineable. He may not be mentioned on the blog often, but without him, I wouldn't be able to take a little time out now and again to write a post or two, delve into another hobby or project, or have any me time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To this day, I can't be quite certain what I did right to end up with a good looking, witty, genuine, sweet honest husband that bakes pies at random, spends hours planning perfect evenings for the two of us, and can make my son giggle like he doesn't do for anyone else - <b>but I won't fight it ;)</b></span>
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- Husbands need love too is a way to show our husbands how much we love them by spotlighting them on our blog! <b>So, the post must be to your husband, about him, from him, a vlog of yall together. Something that highlights your love for him. :)</b></div>
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<b>- Must follow Host & Co-host blogs via GFC - if there is not GFC follow via bloglovin</b><br />
<b>{We are the first six linked up}</b></div>
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<b><u>Extra:</u></b></div>
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- Grab a button and put it on your sidebar</div>
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- Visit a few other blogs and show them some love<br />
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-90056293236473470102012-09-14T08:29:00.000-07:002012-09-14T08:29:16.531-07:00{Guest Post} - Missing Links with Cropped StoriesI know what you are thinking. Something is different right?! Well, you are definitely correct! This bloggy site is not the one I usually publish these posts to! The wonderful Jeni is having me as a guest blogger today! I can’t tell you how super excited I am to be here! Normally you can find me over at <a href="http://www.croppedstories.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cropped Stories</a> where I blog about anything and everything! On Fridays, I publish a post called The Missing Link which is essentially a bunch of my favorite links of the week compiled into one post just for you! For those of you interested, you can find my previous The Missing Link posts (Week 1 – 21) <a href="http://www.croppedstories.blogspot.com/p/the-missing-link.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. In the meantime, I thought I’d share this week’s The Missing Link with you here on Two Shades of Lovely!<br />
I’ve separated my links into categories for easy navigation. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have!<br clear="all" /><br clear="all" /><strong><u>Photography</u></strong>1. <a href="http://500px.com/photo/3073149" target="_blank">Stunning photo</a>!<br clear="all" />2. You don’t have to love owls to appreciate the beauty of this <a href="http://500px.com/photo/7793388?from=popular" target="_blank">photo</a>!<br clear="all" />3. Some where over the rainbow! This <a href="http://500px.com/photo/8111364" target="_blank">image</a> is truly amazing!<br clear="all" />4. I hope the hubby and I are <a href="http://500px.com/photo/9562583" target="_blank">together forever</a>!<br />
<strong><u>Fashion/Beauty</u></strong>1. Gorgeous <a href="http://www.muubaa.com/tops-c12/cardigans-c2/muubaa-thaxter-drape-suede-cardigan-in-light-mink-p129" target="_blank">jacket</a>!<br clear="all" />2. This <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446499988" target="_blank">peplum jacket</a> needs to come home with me!<br clear="all" />3. Oh if I had the money, <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446492162" target="_blank">you</a> would be mine!<br clear="all" />4. I love the simplicity of this <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/betsy-adam-off-shoulder-stretch-satin-sheath-dress/3384151?cm_ven=pinterest&cm_cat=pinit&cm_pla=site&cm_ite=3384151" target="_blank">little black dress</a>!<br clear="all" /><br clear="all" /><u><strong>Children</strong></u>1. Absolutely love the color of this <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446523550" target="_blank">dress</a>!<br clear="all" />2. Shut up right now! I think this little <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446500948" target="_blank">Marc Jacobs vest</a> is calling out Livi’s name!<br clear="all" />3. How sweet right? <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/p/Dolce-Gabbana-Tweed-Trim-Dress-Baby/prod148860240/" target="_blank">Love the tweed</a>! Not sure how comfortable it would be though.<br clear="all" />4. I had to include <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/girls_category/dresses/everyday/PRDOVR~96267/96267.jsp?srcCode=PINT00001" target="_blank">something</a> that was at least a little affordable! <br clear="all" /><br clear="all" /><strong><u>Food</u></strong>1. Are you a salmon fan? The hubby and I just love it! <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/grilled-salmon-i/Detail.aspx" target="_blank">This</a> sounds like such an easy, yet tasty, <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/grilled-salmon-i/Detail.aspx" target="_blank">recipe</a>!<br clear="all" />2. I’m trying to get through this sentence without drooling on my keyboard! <a href="http://www.daydreamkitchen.com/2012/08/baked-garlic-brown-sugar-chicken/" target="_blank">Baked garlic brown sugar chicken anyone</a>?<br clear="all" />3. You don’t see many recipes for sausage; <a href="http://www.bellalimento.com/2010/07/14/spiedini-alla-salsiccia-sausage-kebabs-glazed-with-balsamic-and-fig-preserves/" target="_blank">this</a> sounds so yummy!<br clear="all" />4. Sweet tooth? Something tells me <a href="http://cookinupnorth.blogspot.com/2011/09/bite-size-apple-pies-from-taste-of-home.html" target="_blank">this</a> may satisfy you!<br clear="all" /><br clear="all" /><u><strong>Home/Office</strong></u>1. Love this idea of an <a href="http://bulbtoblossom.com/2012/05/30/vintage-door-decorative-functional-illuminating/" target="_blank">old door</a> used for shelving! Make sure you scroll down a little to see it!<br clear="all" />2. I just love the way <a href="http://gatherlove.tumblr.com/post/6568015445" target="_blank">gray and yellow</a> look together! Check out that curtain behind the bed too! What a great idea!<br clear="all" />3. I would never think to look on Etsy for a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/102390579/shower-curtain-custom-made-ruffles-and?utm_campaign=Share&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_source=Pinterest" target="_blank">shower curtain</a>! They really do have everything!<br clear="all" />4. Great <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/133697/Living-Room-eclectic-living-room-other-metros" target="_blank">mantel décor</a> idea!<br clear="all" /><br clear="all" />And just so you know, I never publish a post without pictures. Of course, this week I haven’t taken a single picture (I know, shame on me right?). With that said, I am sharing Instagram pictures today! <br />
More of my favorite things. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5r7Q0FKC4m4nRokDI27qn-XAeNXwoxeixKkdefzx_8u2RiuqoI1msmZr6xPQx04tTMJ-OZPDukQDTIuDk0eJC8Td7_BUHesJQrMqHJG_TXye7e7ExOIpDseA7H5X3-Y8pTgyekMVkZXEd/s1600/piccollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5r7Q0FKC4m4nRokDI27qn-XAeNXwoxeixKkdefzx_8u2RiuqoI1msmZr6xPQx04tTMJ-OZPDukQDTIuDk0eJC8Td7_BUHesJQrMqHJG_TXye7e7ExOIpDseA7H5X3-Y8pTgyekMVkZXEd/s640/piccollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
1. Livi’s new Fall wardrobe / 2. <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/isobella-chloe-dakota-dress-toddler/3351285?origin=PredictiveSearch&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=1500" target="_blank">Isobella & Chloe dress</a> / 3. <a href="http://www.hannaandersson.com/style.asp?from=SC%7c7%7c2%7c156%7c7%7c2%7c%7c&simg=39129_C20" target="_blank">Hanna Andersson dress</a> / 4. <a href="http://www.clarksusa.com/eng/kids/kidsoverview.cfm" target="_blank">Pair of boots from Clarks</a> / 5. <a href="http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446010001&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306269232&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1347550638476&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type=" target="_blank">Gymboree dress</a> / 6. My <a href="http://www.whitehouseblackmarket.com/store/browse/product.jsp?maxRec=12&pageId=1&productId=570052349&viewAll=&prd=RuffleFront+Ponte+Jacket&subCatId=&color=&fromSearch=&inSeam=&posId=5&catId=cat210004&cat=Jackets&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=1&size=" target="_blank">new blazer</a> from White House Black Market / 7. Another blazer from Macy’s (sorry, can’t find it online) / 8. The hubby’s gorgeous pin striped light lavender shirt and coordinating turquoise and lavender tie / 9. Showing Livi how we can take front facing pictures on my cell phone (she loved it)! / 10. Me and my girl!<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: small;">Have a wonderful weekend and a BIG thanks to Jeni for having me!</span></strong></div>
Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-57159227759860051282012-09-13T13:13:00.002-07:002012-09-13T13:13:31.736-07:00{Current Crush} - Comfy & Cable Knit<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ah....pumpkin spice lattes, chai spice candles, college football, and long sleeves - it must be fall!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In anticipation of all of the fun cool days of layering during fall/winter to come, I cannot get enough of <strong>cable knit</strong>. A trend that was once limited to sweaters that were drab and chunky, the cable knit has taken on a life of it's own and progressed into every section of your life - from home goods, to little mini-cable knit lovelies!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy the <span style="font-size: x-small;">eye-gasm</span> (yes, I said it) - of cozy, warm, cable knit-ness below!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNhUFJcZmmJbBNvdx_SphS35ZY71E5_9rrR_Y6CDAGIHD7m8AxxTDESqwVEf5744OENxTm8tOqHMJ1w99zEIGjfIdAEAYsv1Xbz-xxzMda4LRr9ma7J7YyJNbUmMD8L6BIOYZo8yZnZqia/s1600/cableknitgalore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNhUFJcZmmJbBNvdx_SphS35ZY71E5_9rrR_Y6CDAGIHD7m8AxxTDESqwVEf5744OENxTm8tOqHMJ1w99zEIGjfIdAEAYsv1Xbz-xxzMda4LRr9ma7J7YyJNbUmMD8L6BIOYZo8yZnZqia/s640/cableknitgalore.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br /><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Headband - </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ThreeBirdNest?ref=shop_sugg" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ThreeBirdNest</span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> (etsy)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cowl Neck Sweater - </span><a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/index.jsp" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Anthropologie</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bedding - (unable to find source, but would like to know one - it was too prescious not to put up!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Baby - </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67791337/s-p-r-i-n-g-s-a-l-e-one-of-a-kind-merino?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=cable+knit+&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=all" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ThreeFishShop</span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> (etsy)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mug Cover - </span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mug-and-french-press-jacket" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ravelry </span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(pattern is free!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cable Knit Vase Covers - </span><a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2009/09/diy-project-leigh-radfords-recycled-glass-covers.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Leigh Radford for designsponge</span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> (pattern)</span><br />
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<strong><a href="http://wrightstuff09.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Linking up with the Current Crush Thursday </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"></span></a></strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><strong>sponsor love</strong></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCFkwy4TKZKIRX-rZJSAY2pnUqMJm_MQqY3Ii6SBtcSp3QN7S-Rx_hgh0iTBQ5324shInXUgNpEASJwffP3ozF6c524f-X-Wmmr6BWvw8fEjd0Jl7d4nyONv13Rpl4yB86FS5-KDbIgTlE/s1600/banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCFkwy4TKZKIRX-rZJSAY2pnUqMJm_MQqY3Ii6SBtcSp3QN7S-Rx_hgh0iTBQ5324shInXUgNpEASJwffP3ozF6c524f-X-Wmmr6BWvw8fEjd0Jl7d4nyONv13Rpl4yB86FS5-KDbIgTlE/s1600/banner.jpg" /></a></div>
Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-41044885966065987802012-09-05T22:15:00.001-07:002012-09-06T10:14:05.121-07:00Banana Splits vs. Dirty Dishes<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: right;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.etsystatic.com/000/0/6374313/il_fullxfull.334661386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/000/0/6374313/il_fullxfull.334661386.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96213803/carpe-the-hell-out-of-thi-diem-85x11" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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Some days I find <span style="font-size: x-small;">(or rather, think I have found)</span> <b>balance</b>.</div>
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I am able to get up out of bed <span style="font-size: x-small;">(on time, rarely)</span>, give my boys a little smooch, head to work<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (in a semi put together outfit)</span>, work, come home un-exhausted<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (I warned you, I make up words)</span>, smooch above referenced husband off to work, feed and bathe Noah, and manage to complete other wifely, blogging, and life duties before 11pm.</div>
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And other days, <b>like today...<span style="font-size: large;">not so much</span></b>.</div>
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I can barely manage to make it to work on time <span style="font-size: x-small;">(not to mention sporting horribly not-so-cute shoes)</span>, have a heart wrenching time leaving a crying baby boy <span style="font-size: x-small;">(something about recent phrase of "mama no" in the morning makes it all too easy to stay home)</span>, change into pajamas the second I walk in from work, and spend the evening eating dinner in the form of fresh apples off the tree and picking tomatoes out of the garden, succumbing to Noah's begging to go "<i>ow-siiiiiiiiie</i>".</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">...and it feels amazing.</span></div>
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Sure, there are dishes in the sink, and sticky messes on the floor.</div>
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Laundry to be done, and rooms to be cleaned.</div>
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But today, it was <b>ok</b> to be a little <i><b>unbalanced</b></i> - to eat a banana split for dessert instead of folding laundry, to watch a little late night "Lorax" instead of mopping floors. </div>
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<i>O</i><i>ne of these days</i> that<b> balance</b> will find me. I'll be that mom in the grocery store, with perfect hair, a seemingly well-behaved little one, grocery list in order, and grace about her ways...</div>
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...but until then, you <i>may</i> catch me on my A-game of preparedness - but you're more than likely to see me in the grocery store with a frantic look about me <span style="font-size: x-small;">(probably wearing gym clothes - NOT after working out)</span>, with a grumpy child, scrambling to find my coupons, and bordering meltdown in the produce section.<br />
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<u><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Linking up</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Featured Sponsor Love </span></div>
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Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-17560183532458310572012-09-02T10:11:00.000-07:002012-09-02T10:11:36.564-07:00Sunday Social - {Farewell Summer}<center style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<a href="http://www.acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" title="Sunday Social"><img alt="Sunday Social" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns/Buttons/SocialSundayButton3.png" width="195px" /></a></center>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Happy Sunday! I'm linking up again with Neely and Ashley - this time it's all about gearing up for my favorite holiday - FALL! </span></span></div>
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<b>This Weeks Questions: End of Summer Wrap Up</b></div>
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<i>What
was your favorite trip/vacation/activity this summer?</i> </div>
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This summer we spent a lot of time out at the pool and bbq-ing. It's so much fun to watch Noah figure things out and play in the water!</div>
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My favorite "event" was hands down the Ben Harper Concert with Stephanie and Lonnie! </div>
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<i>Favorite
outfit look of the summer/clothing item?</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYN4NmFfTVZe9MsG-cNo3kqULUPrj3eV00zLcr3nilh4ET8cGoxqSDYdC-3u8_-NZBMbioxZI6VQlkzN3f1fjtHsyxdf757YbkaGpO3Kj8t0xjFaSI7br2WZhCzxwsdvUNrtx8O4nwqVH/s1600/summeroutfit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYN4NmFfTVZe9MsG-cNo3kqULUPrj3eV00zLcr3nilh4ET8cGoxqSDYdC-3u8_-NZBMbioxZI6VQlkzN3f1fjtHsyxdf757YbkaGpO3Kj8t0xjFaSI7br2WZhCzxwsdvUNrtx8O4nwqVH/s400/summeroutfit.jpg" width="382" /></a></div>
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<i> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Top: <a href="http://www.maurices.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12685147" target="_blank">Maurices</a> - Jeans: <a href="http://www.maurices.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11486626" target="_blank">Silver Jeans for Maurices </a>- Watch: <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/michael-kors-watch-womens-chronograph-runway-white-ceramic-bracelet-31mm-mk5188?ID=435104&CategoryID=23930&LinkType=PDPZ1" target="_blank">Michael Kors</a> - Bag: <a href="http://www.brahmin.com/product/I50571CT/chevron-stripes-frankie-chevron-tote-citron" target="_blank">Brahmin </a></span></i></div>
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I lived in my crochet high-low top from Maurices, cropped jeans like these Silvers, and embraced the top knot craze when my hair grew long enough. I didn't leave the house without my favorite watch, and the chevron bag is a favorite of mine that I'm sure to cross over into the fall season as well! <i><br /></i></div>
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<i>What
is one thing you wish you had gotten to do this summer?</i> </div>
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Summer got off to a bit of a late start over here in the Pacific Northwest - and when the weather did get nice, summer passed me right by! I wish I would have scheduled more time to do some family camping trips and catch a few more concerts! </div>
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<i>Favorite Song of the Summer? </i></div>
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That little Bieber has found his way into my heart - he may be young, but his songs are catchy!</div>
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On a more serious note, summer always brings the country music lover out of me - I can't get enough of Luke Bryan - or his "Drunk On You" tune.</div>
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<i>Favorite movie/tv show of the summer </i></div>
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I fell into the trend of the "Dark Knight" thanks to my husband. I hadn't seen any of them - but now I'm hooked!</div>
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As far as tv, I'm not proud, but I have the taste of a high school girl - something about Pretty Little Liars has me hooked! <i><br /></i></div>
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Happy Sunday, Happy Labor Day, and I can't wait to see what all of you guys were loving this summer! </div>
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Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-75917089908331206402012-08-30T22:13:00.001-07:002012-08-30T22:13:30.237-07:00They Love me - They really love me!<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
Upon return from my little "sabbatical/pouty mess/confused/lost" little break from the blog - I came back to feel the love from <a href="http://oversophiesrainbow.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zoe</a>, nominating for the appropriately named Sunshine Award! <a href="http://oversophiesrainbow.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zoe</a> has quite the cute little blog going on, and is always so supportive and knows when to say the right thing - a true, amazing, "blog buddy".</div>
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I was also nominated for another go at the Liebster Award by <a href="http://awthelittlethings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amanda</a>, <a href="http://www.lovalafashion.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sofia </a>AND Ruby - The Liebster award stands for such great things - I love the idea that it keeps circulating!</div>
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Although I won't be posting the Liebster Award again- it's such an honor for a little blog like mine to get recognized! Thanks again ladies!</div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white;">The
Rules:</span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1. Include award
logo in a post or on your blog page.</span><br style="line-height: 26px;" /><span style="line-height: 26px;">2. Answer (10) questions about yourself (*</span><b style="line-height: 26px;">the same ones that I answer below</b><span style="line-height: 26px;">). </span><br style="line-height: 26px;" /><span style="line-height: 26px;">3. Nominate 10-12 other fabulous </span><a href="http://www.surfcanyon.com/search?f=sl&q=bloggers&partner=wtigck" style="border-bottom-style: dotted; line-height: 26px; text-decoration: none;" target="scSearchLink" title="Search Link by Surf Canyon"><span style="color: #940b52;">bloggers</span></a><span style="line-height: 26px;">.</span><br style="line-height: 26px;" /><span style="line-height: 26px;">4. Link your nominees
to the post and comment on their blog, letting them know about the
award.</span><br style="line-height: 26px;" /><span style="line-height: 26px;">5.
Share the love and link the person who nominated you.</span><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
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<b><span style="background-color: white;">Ten Questions
and Answers:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white;"><i style="line-height: 26px;">1. What would you most
like to change about yourself?</i></span></b></div>
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I'd love to give you the standard "I love myself" answer - but truth be told, there are a long list of things I'd like to change, and am working to change. First and foremost, my weight. I've always been self-conscious of my weight. I am making positive changes, which is all I can ask for right now. I don't let my insecurity hold me back in life, but it is something that I'd like to change.</div>
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<b><i style="line-height: 26px;">2. What is your theme
song?</i></b></div>
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I'm actually loving "Paradise" by Coldplay</div>
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<b><i style="line-height: 26px;">3. One part of your life, a memory, action, etc. that
you wish you could surgically remove from your brain?</i></b></div>
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Here I WILL go with a textbook answer that I 100% believe in - I wouldn't change any of them for the world...I've learned from all of them. Except crimped hair and light up LA Gear shoes, I don't think I learned anything from those!</div>
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<b><i style="line-height: 26px;">4. What generation do you
wish you had been a part of? </i></b></div>
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I have a soft spot for the fashion of the early 1960's (think MadMen), the chivalry and simplicity of 1940's, and the absolute genius-ness of the catchy tunes of the 80's.</div>
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In other words, let me slip on my high waisted pencil skirt, get swept off my feet by Gene Kelly, while busting out to some Journey.</div>
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<b><i style="line-height: 26px;">5. What was your favorite childhood toy?</i></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 26px;">I absolutely loved my Teddy Ruxpin - when I wasn't making mud pies and eating dirt. </span><i style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></i></div>
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<b><i style="line-height: 26px;">6. What is your favorite <nobr><a class="FAtxtL" href="http://wondrous-marvellous-obsession.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/my-second-blog-award.html#" id="FALINK_2_0_1"><span style="color: #940b52;">housecleaning</span></a></nobr> chore? </i></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 26px;">Organizing. I'm a very backwards cleaner - it drives my husband nuts. Instead of cleaning things, I choose to organize our closets, rearrange furniture, take on a project - things that don't need to be done! </span><i style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></i></div>
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<b><i style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></i><i style="line-height: 26px;">7. Do you Twitter? </i></b>
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Barely - I still haven't gotten the hang of it yet!</div>
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But, follow me <span style="font-size: large;"><b>@2shadesoflovely</b></span> - I might surprise you and start posting!</div>
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<b><i style="line-height: 26px;">8. Any goals for the future?</i></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 26px;">My future is loaded with them - go back to school, raise a respectable child, lose weight, take on a huge sewing project, make my house "pinterest-worthy", become a less jealous person, wear a maxi dress (yes, it's a goal....you don't know how terrified I am of the things).</span><i style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="line-height: 26px;" /><b><i style="line-height: 26px;">9. Do you really drink
margaritas all the time? </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">I really don't - tequila and I don't mix well - I'll take vokda or wine any day (umbrellas and cherries on top optional). </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="line-height: 26px;" /><b><i style="line-height: 26px;">10. What is the ugliest car you've ever driven and
were embarrassed to be seen in?</i></b></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: 26px;">I've been pretty lucky to not have owned any "ugly" cars - while designating driving once however, I was stuck driving nine sorority girls in a hot pink geo metro. It was a little more awkward than ugly - even though I felt like a large Pepto Bismol gel cap! </span><br style="line-height: 26px;" /><span style="line-height: 26px;"></span><i style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></i></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">My Sunshine
Nominees are:</span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;"> </span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Tranae - <a href="http://www.becomingfab.com/" target="_blank">Becoming Fabulous </a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.itwontbelikethisforlong.com/" target="_blank">It Won't Be Like This For Long </a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Ricki -<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_160663032"> Adventures With Rogue Baby </a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Sarah - <a href="http://alwaysruffles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Always Ruffles</a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Britt - <a href="http://yourstrulybrittrenee.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Britt Renee</a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Elena - <a href="http://croppedstories.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cropped Stories</a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Vanessa - <a href="http://cutifulbaby.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cutiful</a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Jen - <a href="http://www.everythingaccordingtojen.com/" target="_blank">Everything According to Jen</a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Jess - <a href="http://jessismor.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jess Is More</a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.lipstickandlollies.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lipstick and Lollies</a></span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;">Each girl is amazing in their own way. I envy the guts of "It Won't Be Like This for Long", how much "Always Ruffles" and I have in common, the style dares of "Lipstick and Lollies", how "Jess is More" constantly keeps me laughing, the bravery of "Britt Renee", the talent that is "Cutiful", "Cropped Stories" and her genuine sense of compassion, the sense of humor of "Becoming Fabulous", and the local inside jokes I can share with "Adventures with Rogue Baby" - they are some of my everyday favorite reads - and ones I hope I can share with you!</span></h4>
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<br />Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-25440219380409657802012-08-27T21:39:00.000-07:002012-08-27T21:39:33.978-07:00Good Things Come in Small Packages {Jewelry Swap}<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<b>Oh sweet happy mail day!</b></div>
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Something about checking the mail box and finding a cutely wrapped package can make a girls day!</div>
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I love participating in Melissa from the Life of a Not So Ordinary Wife's Jewelry Swap! It's a great, inexpensive way to stalk some new blog friends, and match them with a piece of your previously loved jewelry!</div>
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I had the chance to mail Rima one of my bohemian layered necklaces - a thing of the past for me, but something I knew she'd rock with her great style!</div>
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I received the cutest package in the mail today - this girl must have done her blog stalking - it was leather, it was bling-y, it was everything my little heart desires when it comes to jewelry! </div>
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Stephanie from the Violet Lilac Plum sent me this great purple bling-ed out braided leather bracelet!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfmKgir8-iwyPe3ATroG9U-3_i8BNuTCzeLklQsYomV9KqI5l_m9LfQZvqU6JjU_A52A2KwLYxqKeNNRxue6bOhQv0Tw3inYMHJjzvPTZvRRIGg6mIxhU1B29cXRDDgEu5lQwYBC6iDFDC/s1600/braceletcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfmKgir8-iwyPe3ATroG9U-3_i8BNuTCzeLklQsYomV9KqI5l_m9LfQZvqU6JjU_A52A2KwLYxqKeNNRxue6bOhQv0Tw3inYMHJjzvPTZvRRIGg6mIxhU1B29cXRDDgEu5lQwYBC6iDFDC/s640/braceletcollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Me and my chubby wrists have been a little too self conscious to rock the arm party-ness that is all the rage, but if anything can bring me out of my little shell, this would be it! I am hoping to do some fun layering with this, my everyday Michael Kors watch, and some of my fun other pieces soon!</div>
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Our Lovely Sponsor
<a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii640/twoshadesoflovely/600x80.gif" /></a>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-8290707924196683842012-08-20T21:35:00.000-07:002012-08-20T22:55:02.019-07:00Crockpot Apple Butter {Recipe}<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
Nothing makes a house smell better than apples and cinnamon. With two trees full of apples ready for picking, I decided to try my go at canning for the first time!</div>
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I started off with this easy recipe, and now I'm hooked. Call me old fashioned or old (it's ok, my husband does!) - but canning is a blast, it's so much fun to see what you've grown in your garden turn into something great to eat.</div>
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Plus, with the mason jar craze, these little guys make great gifts!</div>
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This recipe is for about 6 pints - plenty of delicious apple butter to go around! </div>
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<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
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6 dozen apples, peeled, cored, cubed</div>
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(The apples I have are tart little Gravensteins, not super great for anything else - but they tasted great in the apple butter - so don't be afraid to use a not so desirable variation of apple for this recipe) </div>
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3 Cups Bottled Apple Cider</div>
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1 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar</div>
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3 teaspoon Cinnamon</div>
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<b>Step 1 - the tedious step!</b></div>
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Peel, core, and chop all of your apples. Be patient, this part takes time, but the outcome is SO worth it!</div>
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<b>Note:</b> this step is often <span style="font-size: large;">much</span> more enjoyable with a tall glass of wine....or 3.</div>
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<b>Note:</b> this step is <span style="font-size: large;">EVEN BETTER</span> if you can rope a friend in to endure this step with you!</div>
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<b>Step 2 - Mix it, mix it real good!</b></div>
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Mix together your apples with your cinnamon and brown sugar - this isn't a real science, just enough to cover the apples.</div>
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<b>Step 3 - Set it, and Forget it!</b></div>
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You're in the home stretch - mix all of your ingredients </div>
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(this is where you pour your apple cider in now)</div>
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Set your crock pot on medium, and let it set for 15 hours! </div>
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When you come back to check on your masterpiece, you will have an amazing smelling creamy butter eagerly awaiting to be canned!</div>
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<i>**Optional Step: if you prefer your apple butter to be extra smooth (think store bought) - you can use your immersion blender to achieve that texture. I prefer the chunkier, and it was just fine straight out of the crock pot.**</i></div>
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<b>Step 4 - Preservation Mode</b></div>
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You can can your jar of apple butter, and it will last about six months in the refrigerator, but if you plan on preserving your apple butter, follow these next steps!</div>
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Water bath your cans for about 15 minutes.</div>
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<i>For great tips on canning apples for beginners head <a href="http://www.pickyourown.org/canningappleslices.htm" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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Wait for the <b><span style="font-size: large;">POP</span></b> to indicate your lids are sealed.</div>
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And now the best part.........enjoy your newest creation!</div>
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Linking up - so happy to BEE a part of it ;)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's that time again! I am really starting to love this link-up! It's been so much fun getting to know each of you guys! Plus, it gets me to write about subject matters that I otherwise would leave secret (like all of my embarrassing high school photos and such!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enjoy - hope to hear from you!</span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. What were you like in Middle School/HS?(pictures)</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQ7tyenRe5YjnGboXFgfoBr4wfqeNvdwTggZ3jC7nDVHI8T_ocgKJo9E-Fbeyk9m9SlXV-wOonCKIt9kI332t2k4FtO_ukT7KXvWqwxcoP_0k2z-SQfuGaM2bhKSEkkxGONoplp0hdBRK/s1600/middleschoolcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQ7tyenRe5YjnGboXFgfoBr4wfqeNvdwTggZ3jC7nDVHI8T_ocgKJo9E-Fbeyk9m9SlXV-wOonCKIt9kI332t2k4FtO_ukT7KXvWqwxcoP_0k2z-SQfuGaM2bhKSEkkxGONoplp0hdBRK/s640/middleschoolcollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Middle School - I played on every sports team I could, and was in any club I could be. I definitely kept busy! I was able to learn what I liked (volleyball, drama club, student government) and what was not my strong suit (basketball and social studies club)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBfS86uQ6ioortMrlE5_U2EvMmnSxASlHompnPR90sCaqaZB6ciIiTrOUU0haSDGPdGM1016IYmejvB_LZlZPbxsB3YBaF9m6rgKQrHAXCpWmOPIVUUJU5q9-6pD3mGmT4uvzCFKl9-00/s1600/highschoolcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBfS86uQ6ioortMrlE5_U2EvMmnSxASlHompnPR90sCaqaZB6ciIiTrOUU0haSDGPdGM1016IYmejvB_LZlZPbxsB3YBaF9m6rgKQrHAXCpWmOPIVUUJU5q9-6pD3mGmT4uvzCFKl9-00/s640/highschoolcollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">High School - Oh high school. I am just thankful my days of being "too cool" and fake are behind me! I do have to give high school credit for really helping me grow up as a person though - it was a good experience (at times!)</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. What were your favorite past times?</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was always really active in school. During the Fall, I played volleyball, participated in FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) - Winter was time for FBLA and Student Government - and in the Spring time, Softball ruled my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I wasn't doing those things - I was probably having sleepovers, decorating binders, making locker signs, and be-dazzling shirts with friends.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. What songs were you obsessed with?(Backstreet Boys anyone?)</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Bugaboo" by Destiny's Child was a hit without a doubt - as was anything by NSync ("Bye Bye Bye" anyone?), Backstreet Boys ("Backstreet's Back Alright!"), or the iconic B. Spears. I'm pretty sure the naughty school girl look had to be outlawed from my high school after her single came out!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also know for a fact that in middle school we used to all pretend to be the Spice Girls and put on fake shows (I always called Baby Spice....!) </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. What fashion statement do you look back on and cringe?</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think it'd be easier to list trends that DON'T make me cringe from back when I was in middle school/high school.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To name a few of the most memorable that I hate - my curled bangs, hair "accessories" including the hair beads and yarn, all of the "99% angel 1% devil", "98% superflirt" gear, and of course, big skater shoes on girls....never did quite get that one!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Who was your celeb crush?</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nick Carter - Backstreet Boys. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was the star of many of my notebooks and binders.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(*note: I did not forsee his great decline when I dubbed him my crush in 2000!)</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. What were your favorite tv shows/movies?</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/4fedccd769beddc12f000000-400-300/you-wouldnt-recognize-jessica-alba-as-a-popular-high-school-snob-in-1999s-never-been-kissed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/4fedccd769beddc12f000000-400-300/you-wouldnt-recognize-jessica-alba-as-a-popular-high-school-snob-in-1999s-never-been-kissed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Favorite Movie: "Never Been Kissed", "10 Things I Hate About You"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shows: Anything on TGIF - "Boy Meets World", "Sabrina the Witch", "Family Matters" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I'm hoping these recent changes that I've been facing are positive - thank you all for the kind and inspiring words when I've posted somewhat negative tweets, facebook statuses, and even the few of you that noticed I was absent from the blog for a while!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What causes a person to change?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sometimes it takes a tragic event, a life milestone, or even that moment of absolute epiphany.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">...and other times, change takes place for seemingly no reason at all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Im' not talking about a bold new haircut or the getting a tattoo type of change...but more of a change within your soul.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A change that may not even be noticeable to those closest to you, but a change so big, and at times so over whelming that it's virtually unexplainable. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lately, I feel like things have been changing inside of me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm less outspoken than I once was.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Instead of giving my two cents (sometimes it's more like 5 or 10 cents!) in every situation, I've become more of a listener, wanting to be more of an observer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My heart seems to be growing - and it feels as big as ever - once partially hardened by a job that is surrounded by negativity and reality - now my heart longs to help people, anyone.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't know if it's just "part of growing up"... if this "change" is something that I should have experienced sooner. Perhaps I wasn't ready to deal with the huge change, and that's why it's happening now...this go around, I'm not going to be my usual "control every situation" self, and I'm going to ride this one out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This change has been a difficult one to swallow - at times leaving me feeling helpless...it almost feels bigger than me. But instead of letting these changes swallow me whole, I want to grab the reigns and use them to take everything I can from life, and give even more back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Linking up</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" title="Sunday Social"><em><img alt="Sunday Social" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns/Buttons/SocialSundayButton3.png" width="195" /></em></a></center>
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As I sit in my air conditioned home to get away from the muggy 100 degree weather, this Sunday Social is my kind of topic - FALL, a season I wish I could experience right about now! (But I will also be that girl that is whining about the cold and wanting sunshine come about February or so - we're never happy are we?!)</div>
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<strong>1. What is your favorite Fall activity?</strong></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOeJNN-Y3fST-npg2_t1ORakTeZfsUysq7vh8rDheOq4Mr_KfJ-GIisfVNlkdEY2abyjVws2jss_sVZo0Ds66l_r2FZel7dbLW6d5mlWpd5Chdiz3N8J8s5Dpx-7nGa6XQp0nLbLhEOi4/s1600/DSC_0593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOeJNN-Y3fST-npg2_t1ORakTeZfsUysq7vh8rDheOq4Mr_KfJ-GIisfVNlkdEY2abyjVws2jss_sVZo0Ds66l_r2FZel7dbLW6d5mlWpd5Chdiz3N8J8s5Dpx-7nGa6XQp0nLbLhEOi4/s400/DSC_0593.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mike's bat pumpkin and mine and Noah's Cookie Monster pumpkin 2011</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvh1zPEP9GDL2oSs_SkG2g1Gf-ye7KCpI84ambFWU_MXsfhlRmqMiPQ1s0wdB_Ft5F5opH-MZNYCdr2oOIVV0edfn0SrA5l6vyY6XefKKKHcsqSux9IyKHqBVk_dGLehDzg_F3xnI-MK6/s1600/DSC_0591.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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Bon fires. Trips to the pumpkin patch. Carving pumpkins. Watching FOOTBALL! </div>
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<strong>2. Do you follow a football team? if so which one and why?</strong></div>
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Yes, but in this household - it's all about college football.</div>
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We are big Oregon Ducks Fans!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjjAmNvzC6SKJ-2oYStTPCr0fTODizGkHMiRX90vbIaNNkl5HbpWBSEr-qe4DBXj-L5EB-XvkAl50jeXPCHonA5jmwSnnH1wWt2Wg0Ns2jdU30S9oDMISmw7HdFy-cMV_MB_L24GtDfxO/s1600/IMAG0348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjjAmNvzC6SKJ-2oYStTPCr0fTODizGkHMiRX90vbIaNNkl5HbpWBSEr-qe4DBXj-L5EB-XvkAl50jeXPCHonA5jmwSnnH1wWt2Wg0Ns2jdU30S9oDMISmw7HdFy-cMV_MB_L24GtDfxO/s400/IMAG0348.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">At a Ducks game last year! (side note....don't' do dark hair again!)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_Ap1SZNOXts0l8RmnAiQgp8KWL29M5OLvoWk_RoErjhyphenhyphenbQOiFfvJlGEzyvVKq2ut_5ztc6TVOTfdGLVMqR9j__uev_u9atLudYXXkKnIhwmHkwNQWiQetr-tNKB470QPzsuvlQFfmr8s/s1600/duckey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_Ap1SZNOXts0l8RmnAiQgp8KWL29M5OLvoWk_RoErjhyphenhyphenbQOiFfvJlGEzyvVKq2ut_5ztc6TVOTfdGLVMqR9j__uev_u9atLudYXXkKnIhwmHkwNQWiQetr-tNKB470QPzsuvlQFfmr8s/s400/duckey.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Even lil' Noah was a Duck fan as a baby!</span></td></tr>
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<strong><br /><br />3. What is something fun about Fall in your area?</strong></div>
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We are lucky to have local farms that open up their property for fun fall activities. There are wagon rides, pumpkin patches, "punkin' chunkin'" slingshots, haunted houses, and corn mazes. </div>
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I also live in an area with a large selection of vineyards - nothing better than a wine tasting day in the crisp cool air. </div>
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<strong>4. Fav Fall outfit staples?</strong></div>
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Peacoats, Boots, Scarves</div>
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And now that my hair is FINALLY getting longer, an adorable hat! </div>
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<strong><br /><br />5. Thing you are looking forward to most about this coming Fall season?</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvh1zPEP9GDL2oSs_SkG2g1Gf-ye7KCpI84ambFWU_MXsfhlRmqMiPQ1s0wdB_Ft5F5opH-MZNYCdr2oOIVV0edfn0SrA5l6vyY6XefKKKHcsqSux9IyKHqBVk_dGLehDzg_F3xnI-MK6/s1600/DSC_0591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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Noah is old enough this year, that I really can't wait to partake in all sorts of activities with him. Maybe even establish a little Q family tradition!</div>
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I'm also eagerly awaiting peppermint mochas, layering options for fall outfits, and annual family fall photos! <strong><br /></strong></div>
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<strong><br />6. Favorite Fall holiday? Traditions?</strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I kind of love Halloween! Not the dark spooky parts, but I'm cheesy (which I'm sure you all have figured out by now) so any excuse to come up with costumes, and I'm game! I love the decorations and the fun activities you can find for the little ones to do.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1uRPcTak-Iua4KEiiwSSLXFgpxqh7AUy49oSGe5B0v3LZAFXbdiJuFzLEIqvRmZPKQW1YrVpIKGki6xHBCRKJmjiiuUa-v5ehyphenhyphenjV1DX-pw6BsZue1PVm4mBcnEUFQRjYhVC_osWrfsg5c/s1600/DSC_0580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1uRPcTak-Iua4KEiiwSSLXFgpxqh7AUy49oSGe5B0v3LZAFXbdiJuFzLEIqvRmZPKQW1YrVpIKGki6xHBCRKJmjiiuUa-v5ehyphenhyphenjV1DX-pw6BsZue1PVm4mBcnEUFQRjYhVC_osWrfsg5c/s400/DSC_0580.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty much the reason I love halloween - is there anything cuter than a mini-Super Man and a Clark Kent dad?</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<br />
Lovely Sponsor
<a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii640/twoshadesoflovely/600x80.gif" /></a>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-58665868073036189022012-08-01T23:30:00.002-07:002012-08-01T23:30:53.776-07:00{Current Crush} - Mini Swag<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
Being a momma to a little boy, I've had to miss out on all of the cute ruffles, lace, animal prints, and glitter that are little girls fashion.</div>
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Lately though, designers have been stepping it up - and coming up with some pretty swoon-worthy boy duds...and that in itself, are the makings of my current crush!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxQyF0-dBTheSZ-BOEYe28eJX08jHyXx6KTlzMoDmOge2QMh1jRY1W3avZerA21CXF3NBiB_ddpeobDM5H_Iub8Bz0R9F_rhYF2VkoT-Vi1FMpqC4jusfMoI5LwRUoIZZ1QG4iwvBAvJl/s1600/babyboyswag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxQyF0-dBTheSZ-BOEYe28eJX08jHyXx6KTlzMoDmOge2QMh1jRY1W3avZerA21CXF3NBiB_ddpeobDM5H_Iub8Bz0R9F_rhYF2VkoT-Vi1FMpqC4jusfMoI5LwRUoIZZ1QG4iwvBAvJl/s640/babyboyswag.jpg" width="447" /></a></div>
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The fedoras, the suspenders, the Nikes, and scarves! All of these little boys have such "swagger"! I love their little individual styles! What proud momma's they must have!</div>
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Below is Noah - my little man, in his own little stylin' self!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GWrW2qhe-hQsbiqrwzztvhyphenhyphenqtxZUxnOB9Rpd18J1hLwnPy8ni4uVW9NZqKXYb8GmMNN-6a6DMeF8Yh5LsbF8f_TKhBn2zSRGp4lmlHs3v7SfSbO8yv1TuEQwn-DYlpb_ovg2H07cfx3z/s1600/1334624380583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GWrW2qhe-hQsbiqrwzztvhyphenhyphenqtxZUxnOB9Rpd18J1hLwnPy8ni4uVW9NZqKXYb8GmMNN-6a6DMeF8Yh5LsbF8f_TKhBn2zSRGp4lmlHs3v7SfSbO8yv1TuEQwn-DYlpb_ovg2H07cfx3z/s400/1334624380583.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Link up with Danielle and share your current crushes!
I look forward to checking out all of your guys' posts!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://www.framedfrosting.com/search/label/current%20crush" target="_blank"><img alt="Current Crush Thursdays" border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/6960234856_6b71c8a505_m.jpg" /></a> </div>
<br />
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Our Lovely Sponsor
<a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii640/twoshadesoflovely/600x80.gif" /></a>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-12668897322500049872012-08-01T21:24:00.001-07:002012-08-01T21:24:30.365-07:00{Seven} Questions<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">When a girl has had a stressful week, and has to blog during her lunch breaks, sometimes a little assistance in topics is necessary. I love that <a href="http://www.gentrilee.com/" target="_blank">Gentri Lee</a> brought her Seven Questions back - they are always so fun and such a great way to get to know some facts about fellow bloggers that wouldn't usually be discussed!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><b>Now.....onto the funny photo.</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuXp_8FeOdMbUCUUu3_r-G2a6G_YkjL_uRhkC0JcUfa1LbnXoWnt_kVwebW5xbHQ3MbDeFwHtrzv0MdElnsATeP4SZwgmdHvougVo_0eIVeiIprHcynghTUwiN-Rpsbqpv7FEUKPpIlbw/s1600/DSC_0483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuXp_8FeOdMbUCUUu3_r-G2a6G_YkjL_uRhkC0JcUfa1LbnXoWnt_kVwebW5xbHQ3MbDeFwHtrzv0MdElnsATeP4SZwgmdHvougVo_0eIVeiIprHcynghTUwiN-Rpsbqpv7FEUKPpIlbw/s400/DSC_0483.JPG" width="372" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />Explanation - Seattle Washington for our 1 year anniversary trip. EMP Museum "Horror Film" Exhibit had a "Scream booth" - give your best Horror Film scream, and they will record it and snap a photo - this was our little pride and joy (should I be concerned that my husband has a MUCH higher pitched, emergent scream than I do?)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><b>1. It's the first day of August- Are you savoring the Summer or ready to jump into Fall?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">I hail from the Pacific Northwest - I'm usually complaining about the heat. This year, summer started so late (I'm talking like a week ago or so) I'm savoring it...for now. Give me another few weeks, and I'll be ready to start layering the cardigans and scarves.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">For now, I'm enjoying the pool days - early morning sprinkler dances with Noah, camping, and the slight tan/burn I have going on (any shade darker than porcelain-white is progress for me!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><b>2. You need a quick and healthy meal, what do you make?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">My go-to healthy meal that is both kid&husband friendly and not too high on the calories, is taco salad. Fresh veggies from the garden, some ground turkey, a little cheese (for them), and salsa makes a great meal!</span></span></div>
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<br /> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><b>3. You're at the mall, how do you shop?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">The nearest mall is 30 miles away - I don't get over there too often. But when I do - it's an event. I try and hit just about every store (we don't have most of the same stores in our town), and turn it into a day trip! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">No mall trip is complete without a mall pretzel with cheese and a mini-splurge for some cute Victoria Secret necessities.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>4. Would you rather buy a new house or renovate an old one?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Can I have the best of both worlds? The charm of an older home (I'm a sucker for archways, hidden closets, and built in shelving), with the updates and technology of a new home?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I think if money were not an issue, I would love to own a historic home, but renovate it to be energy efficient and up to date on all of the plumbing, wiring, etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>5</b><b>. Long hair or short hair?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I've gone through many phases. As a young girl, I had long straight hair - passed my butt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I've gone back and forth - from dark to light, short to dark, red to purple.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Now I'm in the process of growing it out - and keeping it blonde.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I'm a sucker for a great A-line. I loved my haircut back then.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">But for now, I'm in the midst of another hair "phase" - we'll see how long this one of growing it out and keeping it blonde goes! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosK56RB9rjbIy_zXk_nTOPXoB-3m9l4SLECkisvw-DuPsy-Fu3CUhHw7q6kkaC0fzDg9YPQTsPj3_pQf2yyvahgDf73GjR6feR4xha4F92cybgNW7kNh1LH46mCqFz3yhKOzcbYRcqEL9/s1600/kimandi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosK56RB9rjbIy_zXk_nTOPXoB-3m9l4SLECkisvw-DuPsy-Fu3CUhHw7q6kkaC0fzDg9YPQTsPj3_pQf2yyvahgDf73GjR6feR4xha4F92cybgNW7kNh1LH46mCqFz3yhKOzcbYRcqEL9/s400/kimandi.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">My friend Kim and I have been friends since Middle school.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">We have had our ups and downs - a real Blair and Serena friendship at times (Gossip Girl anyone) - BUT we've always been there for each other - and I cherish her friendship.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>7. What is your favorite blog- currently?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I love the confidence of Cece of <span style="font-size: large;">"<a href="http://www.thebiggirlblog.com/about/" target="_blank">TheBigGirlBlog</a>"</span>, the grace of Dana from <span style="font-size: large;">"<a href="http://www.thewonderforest.com/" target="_blank">The Wonder Forest</a>"</span>, and the humor that is <span style="font-size: large;">"<a href="http://bundledpanties.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">BundledPanties</a>"<span style="font-size: small;">. Each of them wonderful in a different way, I could (and do) read them almost everyday!</span></span></span></div>
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Our Lovely Sponsor <a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii640/twoshadesoflovely/600x80.gif" /></a></center>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-46554988807448869962012-07-31T21:05:00.001-07:002012-07-31T21:05:17.120-07:00How I make that Money Honey {my 8-5 life}<center style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<a href="http://thebargainblonde.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e215/LindseyLeeTTU/HIMTMHbutton.jpg" width="366" /> </a></center>
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Blogging is a bit of an "escape" for me. I don't tend to talk too much about my "real job" - I spend enough time focusing on that when I'm in the office. I love that Lindsey over at <a href="http://www.thebargainblonde.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Bargain Blonde</a> hosted this link-up. I think it's a great way to get to know the "other side" of some of our blog-friends!</center>
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We can start with the bit of a shocker -<b> I don't have a college degree</b>. It's one of my biggest insecurities to date, although I do plan on going back in the near future. When I do go back to college, I know my study focus will not be related to the field I work in now, although I would have never have learned my true passion without working where I do now.</center>
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I work at our local courthouse as a "Judicial Support Specialist" and as the "Drug Court Clerk".</center>
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The first thing people generally ask is <i>"oh so you're the lady that types everything that people say in court?"</i> ... short answer, <b>No</b>. Technology has evolved, so now we have a big fancy computer system that does that.</center>
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Instead, I am responsible for making sure the judge's files are prepared for court, inputting data into our database, drafting criminal and civil judgments, handling exhibits during trials, write letters, and help the judges out in any other way they may need.</center>
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As the Drug Court Clerk, I mainly run statistics, keep track of the clients that are in and out of the program, and help coordinate community events and programs.</center>
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<u>My job is never boring</u>, I will give it that. My weeks are filled with tumultuous divorce cases, wacky criminal trials, dramatic people, and even the occasional positive hearing (like a Drug Court graduation, adoption ceremony, or courthouse wedding!) </center>
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<i>I like my job</i>, I do. However, I don't see myself making it a career. When I first accepted the job, I thought I wanted an office job, and the criminal justice field amazed me. Now that I have been working there for nearly 6 years, I know that I want to take my career path in a little different direction.</center>
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When I began working with the Drug Court Program, I never thought I'd really take a liking to the program. I could not have been more wrong. Thanks to my opportunity to be involved with the program, I know that my career will be something that helps people. I want to be a part of something that is involved with positivity, with helping people to achieve a greater good.</center>
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Part of me feels silly being 25 and wanting a career change. But they say 40 is the new 30, so I'm not ridiculous right?! </center>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.quotepictures.net/you-are-never-too-old-to-set-another-goal-or-to-dream-a-new-dream/" target="_blank">via</a></td></tr>
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Our Lovely Sponsor
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It's too often that I check the mailbox to find useless coupons, bills, junk mail, and the occasional magazine!</div>
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Last week was great - and I may be spoiled! I received so many fun things, I never want to go back to the old days of oil change coupons and power bills!</div>
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First, I received my beautiful bracelet from the beautiful Shanni over at <a href="http://www.shanniloves.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shanni Loves</a>! This was part of the jewelry swap over at <a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank">The Life of a Not So Ordinary Wife</a>. Melissa is a rock-star - and this swap was super successful! If you'd like to partake in the jewelry swap, head over to her <a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>, new guests are welcome for next month's swap!</div>
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Now typically, this isn't something that I would buy - and I usually wear my watch, and haven't really gotten on the "arm party" train yet of layering bracelets and such....but I fell in love with this little piece!</div>
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I love how the white beads are iridescent and almost take on whatever color you pair it with! </div>
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Next, after a pretty rough day, I had a surprise package on my doorstep! I had almost forgotten I took part in a mug swap! I was paired up with the ever so bad-ass Destiny over at <a href="http://thisbitchrocks.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Rockin' Mama</a>. Not only is this girl not afraid to say what's on her mind (and what all of us are thinking....UNCENSORED!) she is thoughtful too! She turned my blog header and favorite quote into this adorable mug! I can only hope that she likes her mug as much as I love mine!</div>
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Last but certainly not least - was a package that I got in the mail today.</div>
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I cannot WAIT to try out this little box. <a href="http://www.craftistaskits.com/" target="_blank">Craftistas </a>was sending out products to review - and I have to say, I'm hooked! Monthly subscription services have swept the nation with boxes like Birchbox and Bluum but this one is strictly for the DIY-ers or ones that aspire to find their crafty niche. Each month, they send you a box with most of the goodies you need to embark on your very own DIY journey! </div>
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This month, I received some great fabric and studs to make an envelope clutch!</div>
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I can't wait to set some time aside and show you all the finished product!</div>
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Head over to their<a href="http://www.craftistaskits.com/" target="_blank"> site</a> to get signed up for your very own!</div>
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Our Lovely Sponsor
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<a href="http://www.acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" title="Sunday Social"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><img alt="Sunday Social" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns/Buttons/SocialSundayButton3.png" width="195px" /></span></a></center>
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This could be one of my favorite link-ups. Sometimes, on a Sunday, while sipping my coffee, it's nice to have some writing prompts. These questions also give me a chance to get to know more all about all of you, which is quite possibly my favorite part! </div>
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Be sure to link up with <a href="http://www.ashleyscarnivalride.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ashley</a> and <a href="http://www.acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" target="_blank">Neely</a> - the more the merrier!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>This Weeks Questions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"><b>1.
What is your dream job?</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">This one is a tough subject. I just got the call on Friday that I was not chosen to fill a position of a job that I would consider a "dream job". My dream job is not in a specific field necessary, but rather possesses certain qualities. My dream job is one that I would stay challenged, and I would be a big part in facilitating positive changes within people. I have a passion for helping people, and love an environment that is always changing, quickly moving, and inspiring. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>2.
If you had just won the lottery and didn't need to work for money, what
would you do with your time?</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I would blog, and spend my time making pretty things (duh!) I would also like to begin the venture on building a dream home, spend time with family in great locations (top of my list, Ireland), and spend some time and money on some local organizations that I truly believe in. I would go back to school, and spend more time learning a foreign language. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">(From the looks of my list, I feel like I'd keep myself and family pretty busy) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>3.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I wanted to be a "big fancy business woman". I wanted to sit at a big table, making conference calls, making big decisions. (I will be the first to admit, I was on a crazy power trip when I was a little girl. I also didn't take into consideration that big cities scare me and "big fancy business women" typically don't flourish in small towns!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> My back-up plan was to be a meteorologist (aka....weather girl!) </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>4.
What piece career advice would you give to someone just starting out in
your field?</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Don't take your work home with you. I work in a difficult place - 99% of the time, people aren't at the courthouse because they want to be, and often times their anger and frustration is taken out on you. Keep it separate, and you'll do fine. </span></span></div>
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Biggest Pet Peeves either in life or in blogging or at work:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><u>In life</u><u>:</u> people who habitually "flake out" (things happen, but cancelling plans last minute over and over is a pet peeve), and public wedge-ie picking! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><u>In Blogging:</u> I am not "established" enough in blogging to have developed one yet - I'm still just sitting back and observing. Give me some time, I'm sure I'll come up with something!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><u>In Work:</u> what isn't my pet peeve at work? Attorneys not turning in paperwork on time, defendants constantly making excuses "no, I don't know why my UA shows amphetamines....must have been in the muffin I ate this morning...". Co-worker wise, probably my biggest pet peeve is the nosey-ness that goes on, not pulling their own weight, and office supply stealers (I still am missing my favorite pen, whoever you are!) ha.<b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">6. <b>Biggest Fears:</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Spiders (and everything else creepy-crawly), water I cannot see the bottom of, not being in control of a situation (motherhood has probably single-handedly cured me of this fear though, I'm learning to be more laid back everyday!)</span></span></div>
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Our Lovely Sponsor
<a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii640/twoshadesoflovely/600x80.gif" /></a>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6822022861291224549.post-63021014400636656982012-07-27T19:33:00.002-07:002012-07-27T19:33:15.858-07:00It's O.K......Friday?My cheery mood from my <a href="http://twoshadesoflovely.blogspot.com/2012/07/fridays-letters_27.html"><b>Friday's Letters post</b></a> has quickly declined. You know those <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6WTy71UF2947QyZpS3whhxyA0AZuobJvnI6O4huQsj-h7le3mwQg_bLI1APm_UeacVvex_cNnaCeoFXV-WPoSx1o4kuF4_t3RK-InWxITW0P05mYTB-ADTgzTQwtUU7F0PCLzCDHwwFb/s400/Interviewcollage.jpg">rockin' interview outfits</a>? Well they must not have rocked hard enough - it turns out that I did not get the job.<br />
Now, I have a job. In fact, I have a very steady job that locally is considered a "good one". But this was a great job. A job actually coordinating a local treatment court program....and I wanted it, bad.<br />
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In honor of the cute little "It's Ok Thursday" - I am posting my very own "It's Ok Friday".<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.brunchwithamber.com/" title="Its Ok Thursdays"><img alt="Its Ok Thursdays" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns/Buttons/ItsOkThursdaysButton.png" /></a></center>
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Tonight I will be changing into my pajamas when I get home, cuddling my two boys, watching movies, eating horribly <strike>(because unfortunately that's what I do when I'm down in the dumps)</strike>, and maybe even having a good cry....but <span style="font-size: large;"><b>it's OK</b></span>.<br />
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I in no way take for granted all of the good things I have going for me, and the beautiful life I already have, but sometimes that little ego shot of "why aren't I good enough for that job?, takes a toll on you - and the only cure for it is some cookie dough!<br />
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Our Lovely Sponsor <a href="http://www.thelifeofanotsoordinarywife.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii640/twoshadesoflovely/600x80.gif" /></a>Jeni Qhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06709788461454707859noreply@blogger.com0